By Jacqui Bialocki
Photo: OP Digital Solutions
For decades, the world’s golfing eyes have turned to Australia’s greatest courses. In 2027, they will turn to Frankston. In one of the biggest sporting announcements for the region, Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club has secured hosting rights for the 2027 Capital.com Australian Open, placing Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula firmly on the national and international sporting stage.
For CEO Heath Wilson, the confirmation was the culmination of years of vision, investment and unwavering belief. “We were absolutely thrilled,” Heath said. “A great deal of hard work has gone into positioning Peninsula Kingswood as a venue capable of hosting a major championship such as the Capital.com Australian Open. Receiving confirmation was incredibly rewarding, and everyone associated with the club is extremely proud.”
While the tournament represents a milestone for the club, Heath believes its impact will extend far beyond the fairways. “For four days, the eyes of the golfing world will be focused on Peninsula Kingswood. It’s an incredible opportunity to showcase not only our club but also the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula communities and everything this wonderful region has to offer.”
Across years of transformation, Peninsula Kingswood has earned a reputation as one of Australia’s premier golfing destinations, renowned for immaculate course conditioning, lightning-fast greens and world-class facilities. “Some visitors have described our greens as among the best in the world,” Heath said. “Combined with the natural Australian landscape, exceptional presentation and facilities, we believe we’ve created a truly unique golfing experience.”
Equally important was the club’s ability to accommodate a championship of this scale, with room for hospitality precincts, fan zones and tournament infrastructure that will enhance the experience for players and spectators.
In 2013, Peninsula Country Golf Club and Kingswood Golf Club made the bold decision to merge, an unprecedented move among Australia’s leading clubs. “It required tremendous vision from both boards and members. The merger created the opportunity to build something special.”
Investment followed, transforming both golf courses and clubhouse into facilities worthy of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious golf championship.
Now, as thousands of spectators, media and visitors prepare to descend on Frankston, Heath hopes they’ll discover far more than championship golf. “We want people to experience a world-class tournament but also experience our region. From local businesses and hospitality venues to beaches, wineries and attractions, this is a chance to showcase what makes our region so special.”
Heath also hopes the Capital.com Australian Open will inspire the next generation of golfers and demonstrate that the region can successfully host a premier sporting event. “We want people to look back on the 2027 Capital.com Australian Open as a landmark event and remember the incredible experience they had at Peninsula Kingswood.”
For Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, 2027 won’t simply be about crowning Australia’s next golf champion. It will be about announcing to the world that this remarkable corner of Victoria has arrived as a destination capable of hosting sport at its very highest level.
Peninsula Kingswood Country Golf Club is at 211-279 Skye Road, Frankston.
