ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
Barnbougle Dunes was built on a former potato farm, and was inspired by the American Bandon Dunes and classic Scottish links—the region’s wild landscape remains virtually unchanged from the original farming era.
About
Set on Tasmania’s spectacular northeast coast, Barnbougle Dunes is a renowned links course designed by Tom Doak and Mike Clayton. The course occupies dramatic sand dunes by Bass Strait, featuring firm fescue turf and strategic holes modeled on the classic seaside courses of Scotland and Ireland. Opened in 2004, it ranks among Australia’s finest public-access layouts and is celebrated for its windswept beauty, natural routing, and pure links-golf experience.
Caddie Tip
Play for the ground game: embrace bump-and-run approaches as the wind and firm turf make low shots ideal, especially on holes exposed to Bass Strait winds. Study wind direction carefully and don’t chase back pins, as the greens are boldly contoured and often slick.
The Main Challenge
The toughest test at Barnbougle Dunes is managing the constant wind and navigating the undulating fairways. The strategic bunkering and firm, contoured greens demand precise shot-making. Recovery from deep rough and marram grass can be difficult, especially when conditions are blustery.
The Good
Golfers love the dramatic setting and pure links-ground conditions—firm fairways, challenging greens, and stunning Bass Strait views make each round memorable. The course delivers a true walking links experience, with routing through natural dunes, excellent strategic variety, and a spirit that celebrates traditional golf.
The Not So Good
Some players wish for more consistent conditioning during wetter months, noting that fairways can become softer and rough areas thick. Others mention wind exposure can create slow rounds and difficult scoring, and the coastal setting may mean unpredictable weather.
Signature Hole:
#
7
The signature hole at Barnbougle Dunes is the par-3 7th, playing just 122 yards yet packed with character and challenge. Set atop a seaside bluff, the tiny green is surrounded by deep, penal bunkers and framed by dramatic dunes with Bass Strait as a jaw-dropping backdrop. The tee shot is usually exposed to stiff coastal winds, making club selection tricky and increasing the difficulty despite the short distance. The green’s undulating edges feed balls toward danger—any miss, especially left, can find deep sand or run off the sloped putting surface. The 7th at Barnbougle Dunes is a true test of precision and nerve, celebrated for its beauty and for rewarding a well-executed shot with a memory that lasts.
Clubhouse
The clubhouse features a restaurant and bar with panoramic seaside views, pro shop, locker rooms, and outdoor seating overlooking Bass Strait. Onsite accommodation—from cozy cottages to a luxury villa—caters to golfers and guests. Dining focuses on local Tasmanian produce and wines.
Practice Facilities
Barnbougle Dunes offers a full driving range, dedicated short-game area with putting and chipping greens, and sand bunkers. Practice is encouraged before rounds as wind and firm approaches challenge even experienced golfers. Facilities are spacious, scenic, and well-kept.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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