Court to courses

Just weeks after she retired from tennis, Aussie legend Ash Barty was showing her serious skills in another sport. She walked away the winner of the ladies’ golf championship at her local club in Queensland. It should come as no surprise she’d excel, having already dominated the world of tennis and mastered cricket. Plus, she’s got a willing partner in husband Garry Kissick, a scratch golfer and regular caddy for good friend Louis Dobbelaar.

On the Road Whenever the couple are in Melbourne, they head to the Mornington Peninsula, where more than 15 golf courses make the most of the beautiful landscape and its natural contours.

'Moonah Links at Fingal is really special,' says Ash. 'There are two courses there – the Open and the Legends. The Open was designed especially for the 2003 Australian Open, so it’s pretty challenging. The Legends is a bit kinder, but still a great spot to play 18 holes.'

Courses Aplenty

One of the features Ash and other keen golfers can’t get enough of is the spectacular ocean views from many courses.
'Playing on the clifftop at Flinders Golf Club is pretty special,' says Ash. 'You’re looking right over Bass Strait. Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club is one of my favourites. It has two championship golf courses, accommodation on site, a swimming pool and tennis courts too.'
Peninsula Kingswood is located on the world famous Melbourne Sandbelt.

Mornington Magic

The Mornington Peninsula is just an hour out of Melbourne and an excellent spot for keen golfers to spend a few days. Along with the wide choice of world-class courses to play, there are stunning accommodation options, wineries, farm gates and restaurants to fill in the hours between holes.
'If you haven’t been to Pt Leo Estate, you’re in for a great experience,' says Ash. 'There’s an amazing sculpture garden, a cellar door where you can do tastings, and a couple of places to eat. You could easily spend the whole afternoon exploring.'