Photography by Gary Lisbon
Adelaide is a fortunate city. For its population, the South Australian capital is well served for world-class golf courses. Right among them is Kooyonga Golf Club, which ranks second in the city on our list but sits first in the hearts of many who prefer the nuances of the course in the suburb of Lockleys. It’s not difficult to see why. The routing touches corners of the property that look subtly different to the rest, as the course quietly evolves with it. Where some holes nudge into secluded pockets, others are open and far more expansive. Throughout is a consistent approach to bunkering and hazard placement.
The Kooyonga site, with its sandy soil and moderate undulations, was a natural selection to become a golf course. Original designer Herbert Lockett Rymill needed minimal vision to conjure something great. Recent shrewd design touches by Neil Crafter, focusing on the bunkering and vegetation, have drawn out more of Kooyonga’s best characteristics.
The Details
Kooyonga Golf Club
Ranking in 2020: 22nd
Prior Top 100 rankings: 25th (2018), 26th (2016), 22nd (2014), 26th (2012), 23rd (2010), 13th (2008), 11th (2006), 14th (2004), 13th (2002), 12th (2000), 12th (1998), 13th (1996), 13th (1994), 10th (1991), 10th (1989), First Ten (1986)
Where: May Terrace, Lockleys SA 5032
Phone: (08) 8352 5444
Web: kooyongagolf.com.au