National Golf Club

The Ocean Course at National Golf Club occupies dramatic coastal terrain on the Mornington Peninsula, approximately 90 kilometers south of Melbourne. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and opened in 2000, the course represents a significant addition to Australia's collection of championship links-style layouts. The property sits on elevated headlands above Bass Strait, where the routing takes full advantage of the natural topography and coastal exposure. The design philosophy emphasizes strategic options and risk-reward decision-making across holes that move through native tea-tree vegetation and over rolling duneland. The course stretches across varied elevation changes, with several holes playing along cliff edges that provide views across the water toward Phillip Island. The wind off Bass Strait influences play throughout the year, requiring thoughtful club selection and shot shaping. The greens are typically firm and fast, with pronounced contours that reward precise approach play. Bunkering follows a naturalistic style consistent with traditional links architecture, though the scale and shaping reflect modern design sensibilities. National Golf Club operates as a private facility with three courses on the property—the Ocean Course joined by the Old and Moonah layouts. The club has hosted professional events including tournaments on the PGA Tour of Australasia. The Ocean Course consistently appears in Australian course rankings and has attracted attention from international golf publications for its coastal setting and design quality. The clubhouse serves all three courses and maintains the traditions of a members-focused golf club.