club history
Our History
Capel Golf Club was established on 13 April 1928, following a public meeting that confirmed strong local interest in creating a golf club.
From the very beginning, the club was built by a passionate and diverse group of community members—farmers, a bank manager, a school teacher, a hotel proprietor, a general storekeeper, and a postmaster—reflecting the heart of the Capel community.
Early Beginnings
The original plan was to develop a nine-hole course at the Old Capel Racecourse. While this was being prepared, a temporary course was set up at “Tren Creek,” kindly made available by Mr WJR Scott.
The first official game was played on 3 June 1928.
Facilities in those early days were modest. The first clubhouse was a simple shed with a corrugated iron roof and wire netting front—a far cry from what members enjoy today.
By 1931, the racecourse links were officially opened. However, winter conditions often made play difficult, with waterlogged fairways requiring players to wear rubber boots. It quickly became clear that a better site was needed.
A New Home at Stratham
In the late 1950s, the club relocated to its current home in Stratham, after purchasing land from the Dunkley Brothers for £1,500—an investment that has stood the test of time.
The front nine holes were designed by Murray Dawson, whose services cost just £5 and 5 shillings.
- 1964 – Official opening of the 9-hole course
- 1966 – Expansion to a full 18-hole course
The course was officially opened on 19 September 1964 with a mixed competition, and two years later, the full 18 holes were in play.
Growth Through Community Spirit
Capel Golf Club has always thrived on the dedication of its members. This strong volunteer culture led to rapid improvements in the 1960s.
Within five years of relocating, the club had installed a bore and a reticulation system—celebrated with the inaugural Reticulation Cup—and transformed the course from sand greens to grass greens.
Competitions & Champions
The club has a proud tradition of hosting competitive golf events.
- Capel Cup – First played in 1954
- Capel Open – Established in 1973
The Capel Open honour board features some of Australia’s most respected golfers, including:
- Terry Gale (four-time winner)
- Graham Marsh
- Stephen Leaney
- Greg Chalmers
Become part of Capel Golf Club
More than a golf course. A place to play, connect and enjoy the game.
