Growling Frog - Victoria - Australia

Growling frog is a confusing course to review. While having some outstanding elements, it also has some really poor ones. As such it’s hard to come to a conclusion; is this course just ok, a missed opportunity or a track that is going to disappear with time?

So, what are the good things? I thoroughly enjoyed the scenery and the layout. The course showcases secluded Australian bush with Eucalypts and big gums lining the fairways and coming into play on a few holes. The layout is great with a range of holes and green complexes which are both interesting and varied. It’s also got some teeth, while not being too long.

And the bad things? It’s a tough walk, with long stretches between some holes. Hazards, especially fairway bunkers, are too often poorly placed, punishing the shorter hitter but making life easier for the bomber. The condition of the course was also disappointing with sub-par bunkers, greens and a clear drainage problem.

To summarise, I’d say it’s great but terrible at the same time. I got on for $33 on a summer Sunday afternoon; a steal in my opinion. It is fantastic that golf of this standard is accessible at that price. If nothing else, the council needs to be applauded for that. The bones of a really solid course are there; a little revamp and the addition of drainage could see the fortunes of this course drastically change.

Good course in summer, to offer a very good public access track in the north of Melbourne. Unplayable in winter.