Are you a golf enthusiast looking to elevate your game to the next level? If so, you might want to consider joining the Royal Melbourne Golf Club. In this article, we’ll show you how to become a member at Royal Melbourne Golf Club and enjoy the perks that come with membership. As a member of this exclusive club, you’ll have access to the prestigious Melbourne Country Club, renowned courses like the Composite Course and Melbourne West Course, and amenities that cater to your every need. Plus, the club’s involvement in hosting events such as the Presidents Cup has helped to elevate its status not just in Australia, but also around the world. Joining the Royal Melbourne Golf Club is a decision that could change your golfing experience forever. So, let’s dive into the membership categories, fees, and application process to help you get started.
History of Royal Melbourne Golf Club
The Royal Melbourne Golf Club has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. The club was founded in 1891 by a group of influential individuals who were passionate about golf and wanted to establish a golf club in Melbourne, Australia. The founders of the club included luminaries such as James Balfour, John Dunn, and Thomas Law.
The club started with a modest nine-hole course in Caulfield, Melbourne, and gradually expanded over the years. In 1905, the club relocated to its current site in Black Rock, where it acquired a larger piece of land to build an 18-hole course.
The club’s expansion continued over the years, with the course being redesigned and redeveloped by renowned golf course architects like Alister MacKenzie, Alex Russell, and Tom Doak. The course, which is now known as the Composite Course, is considered one of the finest in the world, and has hosted many prestigious golf tournaments, including the Presidents Cup.
The Royal Melbourne Golf Club has a long list of notable achievements and milestones. One of the most significant was in 1959, when the club hosted the Canada Cup, which was the precursor to the World Cup of Golf. The tournament was won by the Australian team of Peter Thomson and Kel Nagle, who went on to become two of the most successful golfers in Australian history.
The club’s legacy to Australian golf cannot be overstated. It has been instrumental in the development and growth of golf in Australia, and has produced some of the best golfers in the country. The club has also been a trailblazer in introducing innovative practices in golf course design and maintenance, and has set the benchmark for other golf clubs in Australia to follow.
How to Become a Member at Royal Melbourne Golf Club
Membership Categories and Fees
The Royal Melbourne Golf Club offers a variety of membership categories to suit the needs of different individuals. These categories include full membership, international membership, country membership, junior membership, and social membership. Each membership category comes with its own set of benefits, which are tailored to meet the specific needs of members.
Full membership
Full membership, which is the most prestigious membership category, offers members unlimited access to the club’s facilities and services, including the Composite Course and Melbourne West Course. Full members also have access to the club’s world-class clubhouse, which features top-notch dining, leisure, and entertainment amenities.
International membership
International membership is designed for individuals who live outside of Australia but want to enjoy the benefits of being a member of the Royal Melbourne Golf Club. This membership category offers members limited access to the club’s facilities and services, including a maximum of 20 rounds of golf per year.
Country membership
Country membership is designed for individuals who live outside of Melbourne but within Australia. This membership category offers members unlimited access to the club’s facilities and services, including a maximum of 40 rounds of golf per year.
Junior membership
Junior membership is designed for individuals aged between 8 and 18 years old who have a passion for golf. This membership category offers members access to the club’s facilities and services, as well as coaching and training programs to help them improve their game.
Social membership
Social membership is designed for individuals who want to enjoy the club’s social and dining amenities but do not play golf. This membership category offers members access to the club’s world-class clubhouse, as well as its restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
Membership fees at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club are not disclosed publicly, as they are subject to change and are determined by the club’s board of directors. However, interested individuals can inquire about the fees by contacting the club directly.
Membership Application Process
Becoming a member at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club requires going through a thorough application process. This section will cover the requirements for membership, the steps involved in the application process, and the timeline for approval and initiation.
Requirements for membership application:
The Royal Melbourne Golf Club has strict requirements for membership, and not everyone is eligible. Prospective members must be nominated by an existing member and have a significant interest in golf. Additionally, applicants must have a good character and reputation, as well as the ability to pay the membership fees.
Steps in the membership application process:
Once a member has nominated a prospective member, the applicant will receive an application form that they need to fill out and submit along with the required documents. The application will then be reviewed by the Membership Committee, which will assess the suitability of the applicant.
If the applicant is approved, they will then be invited to attend an interview with the Membership Committee. This interview is an opportunity for the committee to get to know the applicant better and to determine whether they would be a good fit for the club.
After the interview, the application will be voted on by the Board of Management. If the applicant is successful, they will receive a letter of offer and be required to pay the entrance fee and subscription fees.
Timeline for membership approval and initiation:
The membership application process can take several months to complete, and the timeline for approval and initiation can vary depending on a range of factors. Typically, the Membership Committee meets once a month to review applications, and the Board of Management meets quarterly to vote on applications.
Once the applicant has paid their entrance fee and subscription fees, they will become a provisional member of the club for a period of one year. During this time, the member will be required to attend an orientation program, which will help them become familiar with the club’s facilities and traditions.
After the one-year provisional membership period, the member will become a full member of the Royal Melbourne Golf Club. This is a significant achievement and a testament to the member’s commitment to golf and the club’s values.
Royal Melbourne Golf Club Courses
The Royal Melbourne Golf Club is renowned for its two championship courses, the Composite Course and the Melbourne West Course. The Composite Course is a unique blend of holes from the club’s original course designed by Alister MacKenzie and the new course designed by the famous golf course architect, Tom Doak. The Melbourne West Course, on the other hand, is a newer course that was designed by renowned golf course architect, Michael Clayton.
One of the most unique features of the Composite Course is that it consists of holes from two different eras of golf course design. The front nine is from MacKenzie’s original design, while the back nine is from Doak’s design. The course has also undergone several renovations to maintain its classic features while keeping up with modern technology.
The Melbourne West Course, on the other hand, is known for its challenging layout, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens. The course has a more natural feel to it, with the holes flowing seamlessly through the landscape. The course also features wide fairways that make it accessible to players of all skill levels.
Both courses at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club have significant importance in the history of Australian golf. The Composite Course has hosted several international tournaments, including the prestigious Presidents Cup. The Melbourne West Course, on the other hand, has hosted several national tournaments and has been instrumental in developing some of Australia’s most talented golfers.
Other Important Information
- Dress Code: The Royal Melbourne Golf Club has a strict dress code policy, and all members are expected to abide by it. The dress code varies depending on the occasion and the location within the club, but generally, collared shirts, tailored trousers, and appropriate golf shoes are required on the courses.
- Clubhouse Facilities: The Clubhouse offers various amenities to its members, including a pro shop, locker rooms, dining areas, and lounges. Members can also book private rooms for events and meetings.
- Club Events: The Royal Melbourne Golf Club hosts various events throughout the year, including tournaments, social events, and member-only events. These events provide an opportunity for members to interact with other members and participate in club activities.
- Clubhouse Guest Policy: Members are allowed to bring guests to the Clubhouse, but there are specific guidelines that must be followed. Guests must be accompanied by a member, and there are restrictions on the number of times a guest can visit the Clubhouse.
- Junior Membership: The Club offers Junior Membership for individuals aged between 12 and 21 years. Junior members have access to the courses and facilities but have some restrictions.
- International Membership: The Royal Melbourne Golf Club offers International Membership for non-Australian residents. This membership category allows members to have access to the courses and facilities for a limited time each year.
- Waiting List: Due to the exclusivity of the Club, there is a waiting list for membership. The waiting time varies depending on the membership category and the number of vacancies available.
FAQs
What are the steps to become a member of Royal Melbourne Golf Club?
To become a member of the Royal Melbourne Golf Club, you will need to go through a membership application process that includes filling out an application form, securing a proposer and seconder who are existing members of the club, and paying the required fees. The club has several membership categories, each with its own set of benefits and fees. Once your application is approved, you will need to pay an entrance fee and annual subscription fees to maintain your membership.
How much does it cost to play at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club?
The cost of playing at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club depends on whether you are a member or a non-member. Non-members can play the course by paying the green fees, which vary depending on the time of day and the season. The green fees for non-members are generally higher than the annual subscription fees for members. Additionally, members are entitled to use the club’s facilities and participate in various club events.
Is it possible for anyone to play at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club?
Yes, anyone can play at the Royal Melbourne Golf Club by paying the applicable green fees or by being invited to play by a member of the club. However, membership has its privileges, including access to the club’s facilities and events, priority tee times, and the ability to participate in club competitions.
Conclusion
Becoming a member of the Royal Melbourne Golf Club is a significant accomplishment and provides members with access to one of the most prestigious golf clubs in the world. The Club has a rich history, unique courses, and strict membership requirements that reflect its exclusivity. However, for those who are passionate about golf and meet the membership requirements, the rewards of becoming a member are well worth the effort.
