It was easy for us to pick up a quality rental vehicle from Sixt and be on our way to enjoy the famed Tasmanian countryside. We had time for a coffee and a walk around the historical and picturesque towns of Richmond and Oaklands, taking in the sobering site of old Richmond Gaol established in 1821. We continued north on the main highway to Launceston and onto the Northern Coast in hunt of Australia’s premier golf destination. 

 

 

Arriving at Barnbougle at dusk, it was time for drinks and dinner. The Lost Farm restaurant is well stocked and produces hearty meals, after a day on the dunes. The Sattler family were a delight to meet, discussing the history of the property, as well as future development opportunities. All the family have a role in the business, and they have achieved so much already, so it’s exciting to see what the future will bring in terms of golfing developments onsite.

 

I had time to play Lost Farm, a great challenge, and a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Having always been curious about their ‘20 holes’ on the card, I was a little unsure if this was entirely proper! But after seeing that two of these holes are for use, when other holes are out of play, and recognising their intrinsic worth, it is easy to see why the extra holes are now a permanent fixture. Being accurate with approach shots is at a premium with fast running undulating greens, something that you need to be very mindful of.

 

After lunch in the nearby town of Bridport and a walk around the picturesque waterfront it was time to play Barnbougle Run, a 14 hole ‘mini’ course that I had heard so much about. What I came away with was how a golfing traditionalist can enjoy and have so much fun on a short course. Hit the greens, and with many reverse bowls; the greens reward you. Miss them, and you are in a world of pain! A huge delight and certainly the way to play either The Dunes or Lost Farm, if staying overnight.

 

The lodge rooms are a good size and perfectly comfortable. What you see is what you get. No frills and fuss, affordable (as are the green fees) for anyone prepared to make the journey to Tasmania’s beautiful Northern Coast.  You’ll struggle to find better value for money anywhere else in the golfing world.  It certainly struck us how underdeveloped and untouched the tourism market is in the region. There is scope for thoughtful development, without detracting from the natural surrounds.

 

We dropped off the car at Launceston Airport, again an easy process, and flew down the East Coast with Par Avignon – our local partners for years in Tasmania flightseeing. The Freycinet Peninsula was a picture postcard as we landed at Maria Island. The first landing on the grass runway was aborted due to wombats which were either asleep or grazing!  Once we were able to land, seeing these cute creatures up close was a delight. We picnicked on Tasmanian cheese and wine on a remote beach, all the while surveyed by a grandfatherly resident wombat. Together with the solid and formidable Cape Barren Geese, and historical elements, Maria Island did not disappoint.