Members of Port Kembla Golf Club and parent entity Wests Illawarra have voted in favour of a landmark proposal with entertainment-based golf business Swing Factory to transform the club into a premier golfing and entertainment destination for the region.
Wests Illawarra amalgamated with Port Kembla Golf Club (PKGC) in 2014.
The football club proposed a lease and development to introduce modern amenities and new revenue streams, to safeguard the course’s long-term future.
The Registered Clubs Act requires member approval before any ‘core’ property can be leased or sold, and members assembled at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) in September, where they overwhelmingly voted in favour of the proposal.
Wests Illawarra and PKGC CEO Danny Munk says the green light marks an historic moment for both the club and the wider Illawarra.
“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure the long-term future of Port Kembla Golf Club, while delivering new experiences that reflect the way people want to enjoy golf today.”
Jeremy Wilshire, GM of Destination Wollongong, conducted a site visit of a Swing Factory facility, where reportedly they “couldn’t have been more impressed” with the operating model, and he welcomes the addition of a first-class sports leisure venue to the area.
“Swing Factory is a great fit for the region and will add to our burgeoning outdoor entertainment product offering,” stated Wilshire.
This agreement will see the golf facility leased to Swing Factory for 30 years, with a further 20-year option, and bring significant capital investment for redeveloping existing facilities and delivering substantial enhancements.
Plans include refurbishment of the clubhouse, construction of a modern driving range and 18-hole putt-putt golf course, reconfiguration and upgrade of the present golf course and a new irrigation system
Swing Factory is an Australian-owned and operated company that develops and operates a network of community-driven golf venues offering both advanced golf technology and family-friendly leisure activities.
The company already has established venues across New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria, and recently announced a new multi-million-dollar redevelopment of a driving range in Maitland.
A DA at the PKGC is expected to be lodged in November. Approval is forecast for mid-2026 and construction is expected to take 12 months. The irrigation works are slated for winter in 2027.
Munk says that importantly, regular operations will continue throughout construction, taking present greatness to an even greater level.
“It will create a modern, inclusive and family-friendly destination for golfers and non-golfers alike, appealing to both local residents and visitors,” he concludes.
“With Swing Factory’s proven track record, members can be confident the club will remain a first-class golf destination while opening up exciting new opportunities for growth, tourism and community engagement.”
