Premier Jeremy Rockliff has officially launched Northern Tasmania’s latest golfing attraction, The Range, where more than 800,000 golf balls have been hit in just seven weeks. This new venue, featuring a multi-storey driving range and an 18-hole mini golf course, was formally opened on Sunday at Country Club Tasmania.
“The Range is not only a game changer for the local golfing community, it is also a boon to the tourism and hospitality sector,” Rockliff stated during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. “We know one in six Tasmanian jobs are supported by the tourism industry, and this facility has already created nearly 40 new jobs.”
The Range: A New Era for Tasmanian Golf
The new entertainment venue includes state-of-the-art ball-tracking technology and lounge-style bays designed for comfort and friendly competition. Greg Farrell, Managing Director of Federal Group, noted the facility’s immediate popularity since its soft opening.
“Already, in just over seven weeks since opening, well over 800,000 balls have been hit – that’s one every three seconds since opening – making it one of the busiest driving ranges in Australia,” Farrell said.
The Range is part of Federal Group’s significant investment in the precinct, which includes a $20 million transformation of the Championship golf course currently underway. This development represents a substantial boost to the local economy and the golfing community.
Transforming the Championship Course
The Championship Course, expected to be completed by the end of 2026, is set to become one of only thirteen sand-capped courses in Australia. It will feature eighteen stone bridges reflecting Tasmania’s convict-built heritage, along with two suspension bridges, enhancing both the aesthetic and historical value of the course.
Farrell emphasized the course’s potential to rank among the best in the country, attracting golf enthusiasts from across Australia and beyond.
“The Championship Course will sit among the best in the country,” Farrell said.
Beyond Golf: Community and Economic Impact
Rockliff highlighted that venues like The Range have broader benefits beyond tourism and employment. “When you bring people together, people’s wellbeing is enhanced,” he said. Such facilities support families and friends gathering, catering to people of all ages and abilities when it comes to golf.
This development follows a broader trend of investing in community-centric recreational facilities that not only boost local economies but also enhance the quality of life for residents. The Range exemplifies how sports and leisure can serve as catalysts for community development and economic growth.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Tasmanian Golf
The opening of The Range marks a significant milestone in Tasmania’s efforts to position itself as a premier destination for golf tourism. With the ongoing development of the Championship Course, the region is poised to attract a new wave of visitors, further cementing its reputation in the golfing world.
As the project progresses, stakeholders and the community alike are optimistic about the potential benefits, from increased tourism to job creation and community engagement. The Range and the Championship Course are set to become integral parts of Tasmania’s sporting and cultural landscape, promising a bright future for the region’s golf enthusiasts and the local economy.
