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Kingswood Golf Club had its origins back in 1904 as the Dandenong Golf Club. At a special meeting held in 1921 a committee was formed to investigate the purchase of a property known as "KINGSWOOD".
below - Extract from the Sub Committee Meeting of the Dandenong Golf Club on 20 October 1922. This sub-committee was formed to discuss the advisability of purchasing land for a links. |
the extract reads" Mr Gibson moved and Mr Kingsbury seconded, that the Trustee Executors Agency Co Ltd be approached with a view to obtaining their bedrock price for "KINGSWOOD" property, with particulars as to terms of purchase, and that an endeavour be made to secure a six month's option."
The club ultimately acquired this property and constructed a links.
right - Members of the Dandenong Golf Club May 1925 |
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It was not until 1937, after a number of moves around various paddocks in the Dandenong area, that the Club found its permanent home in Dingley Village. By then it had been renamed Kingswood Golf Club, named after the leased property it had occupied for 16 years before its final move.
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The new "home" was 120 acres of undulating market garden land in what is now the world-renowned sandbelt region. Leading golf course architects of the day M.A. & V. Morcom designed a golf course that was then the second longest course in Australia at 6,707 yards. A number of changes have taken place over the ensuing years with architectural "contributions" made by Thompson and Wolveridge, Grant and Spencer, Kevin Hartley, E & G Parslow, and most recently, 4 magnificent new holes designed by Tony Cashmore. Three of the new holes are now in play, and the fourth will come into play late in 2002.
right - Golfers circa 1937, Cedric Broomhall is on the extreme right |
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Kingswood is not as well known as some of its more famous sandbelt neighbours, but it loses little in comparison as a championship standard golf course. Wonderful couch fairways, fast true greens, superb bunkering, and lakes coming into play on six holes provide not only a great golfing challenge, but also a delightful playing environment featuring an abundance of birdlife. The fact that the Club has hosted many State and National Amateur Championships over the years bears testament to its quality and regard in which it is held.
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In the early 1990s Kingswood undertook some major projects. The Clubhouse was completely refurbished and extended. A deliberate approach to retain the charm and character of the old building was taken.
right - Clubhouse circa 1937 |
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Today, this charm and character is frequently commented upon by the many visitors who enjoy the atmosphere, ambience and comfort of the clubhouse, with its honour boards featuring prominently all around.
At the same time a massive lake was constructed along and around the back of the (then) 6th hole. This lake provided the Club with major benefits as it is now one of main water storage facilities, and it provides an aesthetically pleasing "buffer" between the course and neighbouring houses.
Kingswood Golf Club has been blessed with many great Presidents and Captains over the years. Their leadership is evident by the quality and standing of our Club today. The late Vern Ellis served the Club as President for 4 years and also as Captain for 4 years. David Martin and Doug Blair were not only fine leaders of Kingswood Golf Club, they also made their mark as Presidents of the Victorian Golf Association (1959 and 1965, and 1987 and 1992 respectively).
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Kingswood currently holds the VGA Division 1 Pennant title, and can boast a unique double as the current Victorian State Captain, Marcus Fraser, and Junior State Captain, Andrew Tampion, form the backbone of a very talented and skilfull team. Since Kingswood joined the Victorian Golf Association back in the early 1930s, it has produced many champion golfers and has been a Division 1 club for all but 7 seasons.
Life Member and past Club Captain John Hood won many top amateur titles, including the 1963 German Amateur Championship and 8 Club Championships. In his 64 years of membership John has had an illustrious golfing career. He, and highly respected fellow 60 plus year Members, Fred and Leo Waller, John Standish and Graham Beadle are all still play regularly at the Club. Tim Bell is another respected and admired 60 plus years Member who is regularly seen around the Club.
Peter Sweeney won the Australian Amateur Championship in 1976 and has been Club Champion 8 times. Peter, still an outstanding golfer after many years playing elite level amateur golf, played a significant part in Kingswoods great 2001 Pennant win. Ken Kilburn, Club Champion on 8 occasions retains his low handicap and consistent form, regularly winning or doing well in State and National Seniors Championships. The late Bill Higgins was revered at Kingswood. He won 15 Club Championships between 1938 and 1966. |
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above - Our last Back to Back Division One Pennant wins in 1977 and 1978
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Limited copies of "The Tin Shedders" are available for purchase. The book is a comprehensive insight to Kingswoods history written by Mark Harding. Cost $25 inc Postage & Handling. If you would like to order your copy, please email general@kingswoodgc.com.au.
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