Commonwealth Golf Club

Commonwealth is in the Sand Belt area of Australia, outside Melbourne. Unlike a number of Australia's notable courses, this one wasn't designed by Alister MacKenzie. The first holes were laid out by the club professional, Sam Bennett, when the course opened in 1921, with later revisions by the Captain of the club, Charles Lane, who traveled abroad to study various examples of course architecture, with further touches and enhancements over the years by Sloan Morpeth and others. The course's pedigree is a mixed breed so to speak, but a standout. It's always been recognized as one of the better clubs in Australia, and has held a number of professional tournaments and championships. One of the more unique features of the course is that the greens are positioned, and in effect cradle the ball when you approach from the correct spot from the fairway. By the same respect, it punishes you if you're approaching from the side of the intended line. This course was in magnificent condition at the time of our playing. The fairways were in top condition, the greens were running true, albeit a bit slow. Parkland style layout is varied and challenging on some holes, and you really feel like you are out in the bush with very nice surroundings and a couple of water hazards. Like the golf clubs in the United Kingdom, the clubs in Australia are private, but open to the traveling golfers from other countries, you just need to make contact with the club booking secretary prior to your arrival, and will be treated very cordially.