New chapter for Centenary Park Golf Course

Published on 29 September 2025

Centenary Park Golf Course will enter a new chapter from July 2026, with management of the much-loved public facility to be taken on by Peninsula Leisure Pty Ltd.  

The change marks a new direction designed to maximise community benefit, unlock opportunities for reinvestment, and strengthen Frankston City’s reputation as a leading destination for sport and recreation in Melbourne’s south-east. 

Council made the decision at its meeting on 8 September 2025, consistent with its responsibilities and powers for managing recreation facilities on Crown Land.  

Frankston City Councillor Cherie Wanat, Chair of the Frankston City Sports Liaison Committee, acknowledged the existing operators, Clublinks, for their outstanding commitment to the Golf Course’s management since 2019. 

“Clublinks has delivered exceptional service and care for Centenary Park Golf Course over the past six years,” Cr Wanat said. 

“Their professionalism has been invaluable, and this decision is in no way a reflection of their performance. On behalf of Council and our community, I sincerely thank them for their contribution. 

“This next step reflects Council’s long-term commitment to reinvesting in the facility and creating even more outstanding opportunities and experiences for locals and visitors alike.” 

Clublinks CEO Anthony Lawrence said the company was proud of its time at Centenary Park.

“It has been a privilege to manage Centenary Park Golf Course since 2019,” Mr Lawrence said.

“We are proud of what has been achieved together with Council and the Club, significantly increasing total participation and community engagement.  We understand Council’s decision to insource operations and will work closely with Council and Peninsula Leisure to ensure a smooth handover. We wish the course and everyone involved continued success into the future.”

Peninsula Leisure, a wholly Council-owned organisation, has an established reputation for delivering high-quality community sport, recreation, and aquatic services, with a strong focus on community benefit and creating positive customer experiences. They currently manage Peninsula Aquatic Recreation Centre (PARC), Pines Forest Aquatic Centre, and Frankston Skate Park. 

Cr Wanat said Peninsula Leisure has a proven track record in operating complex facilities to a high standard, while ensuring appropriate oversight and accountability remains with Council. 

“While Peninsula Leisure was originally established in the aquatics and health club sector, its staff and Board bring a broad range of expertise across sport and recreation – including prior management of golf facilities and a genuine personal passion for the game,” she said. 

"This experience gives us great confidence that Centenary Park will continue to thrive and offer fantastic experiences for members, visitors, and families.”  

At the 2025 Aquatics and Recreation Victoria Awards, Peninsula Leisure was recognised three times over, with Pines named Facility of the Year (seasonal), PARC awarded Facility of the Year (large), with PARC also receiving the prestigious Sustainability Award for leadership in environmental responsibility and innovation. 

Peninsula Leisure CEO Kath Thom said the organisation was excited to bring its expertise to Centenary Park. 

“We’re delighted to continue to partner with Frankston City Council as we take on the management of Centenary Park Golf Course, which plays such an important role in supporting health, wellbeing and community connection in Frankston.  

“We look forward to getting to know the golf community, working with the Golf Club, and growing the game of golf for everyone.”  

Council is committed to a smooth transition over the next 10 months to minimise disruption for staff, members, and visitors. Importantly, the activities, services, programs, and access offered at Centenary Park Golf Course will not change.  

Council and Peninsula Leisure are also keen to work with Clublinks to retain existing staff to support continuity in operations. 

Centenary Park Golf Course is Frankston City’s only public golf course. Originally established in 1938, the course was relocated to its current site in 1974 and named Centenary Park in 1986.  

The 18-hole, par 72 course is popular with locals and visitors, with three greens recently upgraded as part of the site’s master plan. The course is maintained by Council. 

For more information, visit: https://www.frankston.vic.gov.au/Things-To-Do/Recreation-and-Leisure/Centenary-Park-Golf-Club-Management-Frequently-Asked-Questions.