Discover the Uniqueness of Each Hole at Nullarbor Links
Staff Writer
Golf on the Nullarbor Links includes a lot of travel and some gnarly lies.
The South Course at Torrey Pines, where the Farmers Insurance Open will wrap up this weekend, plays 7,765 yards from the championship tees. That’s a hefty distance by almost any measure.
But it’s no more than a pitch-and-putt in our world.
A marketing wiz from Western Australia with a thick mustache and a sense of mischief, Alf Caputo, one of the managers and co-developers of the Nullarbor Links, has created the longest layout in the world.
A Unique Golfing Experience
Located in the arid region known as the Nullarbor Plains, our golf course spans an impressive 1,365 kilometers (approximately 850 miles). It winds through the vast and starkly beautiful outback of Western Australia, showcasing the breathtaking remoteness of this region.
With the concept of attracting more tourists to this economically struggling area, the idea for the Nullarbor Links was born during an imaginative evening that Alf Caputo shared with his entrepreneurial friend, Bob Bongiorno. Inspired by the story of the Nullarbor Nymph, a tabloid sensation from the ’70s, they decided to create a new and exciting tourist attraction – the world’s longest golf course.
Building the course was no small feat, but after nine years of effort, the Nullarbor Links was ready for play in 2008. Thanks to government grants and the design expertise of a British golf professional who meticulously planned the layout using Google Maps, golf enthusiasts can now experience this epic journey.
Nullarbor Links: A Golf Adventure Like No Other
Starting in Ceduna, a charming fishing town in South Australia, players embark on their golfing adventure, driving west across the Nullarbor to the mining city of Kalgoolrie. Alternatively, players can choose to start in Kalgoolrie and make their way back to Ceduna. Throughout the course, players will encounter a variety of holes with Astroturf tees and sand greens, each strategically located near small-town roadhouses that provide rustic accommodations and delicious local fare, including meat pies and kangaroo stew.
Nullarbor Links is not just a golf course but an incredible journey through the heart of outback Australia. It can take up to three days to complete the entire course, covering remarkable distances between holes. While most golfers opt for motorized transport, some adventurous souls have cycled, ridden rickshaws, or even walked the entire course over the span of months.
Discover the Uniqueness of Each Hole
The Nullarbor Links embraces the essence of the outback by naming its holes after local landmarks and attractions. For example, the 4th hole is called Wombat, paying homage to the abundant marsupial population in the area, including the Hairy Nosed Wombats, the world’s largest population of which can be found here. Another notable hole is the 12th, named Skylab, in remembrance of the space probe that famously crash-landed nearby in 1979. Visitors can even explore the Skylab museum at the local roadhouse.
Chasing the Sun: A Unique Golfing Event
Every year in April, golf enthusiasts come together to participate in our signature event, Chasing the Sun. This seven-day tournament is not just about competition but also about camaraderie and endurance. Starting at sunrise in Ceduna, participants play their way across the vast Nullarbor Links, culminating in a post-round cocktail party in Kalgoolrie. Golfers have the option to play from the forward tees for a more relaxed experience.
For more information about the Nullarbor Links, tournament details, and to book your golfing adventure, visit our official website here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Nullarbor Links?
The Nullarbor Links measures an impressive 1,365 kilometers (850 miles) in length.
How much does it cost to play the Nullarbor Links?
The green fee for playing the Nullarbor Links is $70, with an additional $8 maintenance fee.
What type of tees and greens are found on the course?
Most holes have Astroturf tees, and some feature sand greens.
Are there accommodations available along the course?
Yes, there are small-town roadhouses along the course that offer rustic accommodations.
What are some popular local dishes to try while playing the Nullarbor Links?
Don’t miss out on trying the delicious meat pies and kangaroo stew available at the roadhouses.
How long does it take to complete the entire course?
The course requires approximately three days to complete, depending on the mode of transportation.
Can I participate in the Chasing the Sun tournament?
Yes, the Chasing the Sun tournament is open to all participants who wish to experience the unique golfing adventure offered by the Nullarbor Links.