Located near Parramatta in Sydney's west, Oatlands Golf Club is a private golf course that is worthy of the description of a "hidden gem." Since its opening in 1931, the golf course has maintained its tradition and quality for over 90 years and is highly regarded by Sydney area golfers for its meticulous course management. It is located approximately 30 minutes by car from Sydney CBD and only 10 minutes from the center of Parramatta, making it very accessible.
Location and basic information
- Address: Bettington Road, Oatlands NSW 2117
- Course Type: Private Members Course
- Course composition: 18 holes, par 70, total length approximately 5,900m
- Green Fee: Non-members may only play when accompanied by a member (Guest Fee: approximately $100)
- Reservations: Members-only reservation system
Oatlands Golf Club is a members-only course, so it has a calm and private atmosphere that is different from that of popular public courses. The clubhouse has an old-fashioned design, but it has been renovated to provide modern amenities, allowing you to relax after a round.
Course Features
The course at Oatlands is a relatively short par 70 course in terms of length, but it is by no means an easy course. It is not an easy course at all, with well-placed bunkers, dogleg holes, and dense trees throughout the 18 holes.
In particular, the course is narrow overall, and many holes are surrounded by tall trees on both sides, so tee shots require precise direction.
Unlike other clubs where players usually start their rounds on the 1st and 10th holes, Oatlands players start their rounds on the 1st and 12th holes.
Oatlands par 3 holes are quite difficult. In particular, the 2nd hole, which is over 200m long, and the 12th hole, which is 180m long, are not easy because of the long green and the bunkers around it. The 6th hole is 168m long and has many challenging elements such as the OB area on the right and the bunker in front of the green. The 9th hole is relatively short at 140m, but there are times when you cannot save par because of the water hazard, bunkers, and narrow green.
Green Conditions and Course Management
The reason why Oatlands Golf Club is considered one of the best-maintained courses in Sydney is because of its thorough course management. The greens are maintained with Bent Grass and boast fast and solid speeds all year round. The grass density is high, so ball marks are not easily left, and the putting line is also kept clean. However, it is difficult to read the undulations, and there are many subtle slopes, so it is difficult for members to three-putt.
The fairways, bunkers, and rough areas are all meticulously maintained, allowing you to experience the elegance of a traditional private course all year round.
Oatlands - Relaxing Private Golf
The biggest appeal of Oatlands is its leisure and class. As a members-only golf course, unlike public courses, the number of players is limited, and reservations are strictly managed, so there is ample space between tee times, giving you the great advantage of being able to play leisurely.
Oatlands Golf Club has been harmoniously combining tradition and modernity in recent years with clubhouse renovations and course improvements.
The course is now in better condition after heavy rains thanks to new grass varieties and an upgraded drainage system, while member amenities are also continually being improved.
Overall Review
Oatlands Golf Club is a short but challenging course layout and thorough management, giving you a fresh sense of tension every round. If you want to experience the traditional and modern, leisurely private course, Oatlands Golf Club is one of the golf courses you must experience in Sydney. It is a bit disappointing that it is difficult to play a round unless you are accompanied by a member, but it is a special experience.
