Medallist Developments state manager Peter Shellie updates golf legend Greg Norman on the progress of works at his multi-million dollar residential development Settler’s Run in Cranbourne South.By Alison Noonan
GOLF legend Greg Norman has played down concerns that his new multi-million dollar golf course will be a threat to existing Cranbourne clubs.
Mr Norman was in Cranbourne South last week to preview the progress of works at his $300 million residential development Settler’s Run.
The exclusive 500-home estate is planned around a self-designed championship golf course and offers members-only use of an $8 million village centre, which includes a clubhouse, pro shop, gym, an indoor pool, tennis courts and a community centre.
Mr Norman told the News he did not expect that the Settler’s Run golf course would have a negative impact on the two existing clubs in the area, Amstel and Cranbourne.
He said his course would provide friendly competition and enhance the region’s golfing reputation.
“I want to try to separate our course from the others and build the best course we can possibly build,” he said.
“We do study the effect it will have on the area and I don’t want to undermine any other developments, but I relish competition.
“I hope somebody else challenges us too. Competition equals healthy growth and healthy business.”
Mr Norman said he was proud of the fact the Settler’s Run development had a community focus.
He said he worked closely at ‘ground level’ with the council and builders to realise his vision.
“We pride ourselves on our huge sense of community,” Mr Norman said.
“We want our golf courses played on and enjoyed by everybody and affordable to all.
“You cannot stop growth, development and progress but you can make sure it is done properly.
“I want our members to walk off the 18th hole and remember all 18.”
Mr Norman said he chose to develop in Cranbourne for its prime location in one of Melbourne’s major growth corridors.
“This is the right area,” he said.
“One of the hot global housing markets is right here in Melbourne and we understand that.
“I love this area because it was home to one of the quality golf courses I played on as a kid.
“I love the grass, the soil and the way the game of golf is played here. It is unique.”
Mr Norman also tipped the Mornington Peninsula as a future international golfing destination, saying it would “go off like a firecracker” in the coming years.
“The Mornington Peninsula will be the ultimate destination for golfers on a global basis,” he said.
“People in 10 years will say ‘wow, this is a destination for golf’.”
Mr Norman said he expected to be making future visits to the Cranbourne South site now that construction of the fairway had begun.
Medallist Developments state manager Peter Shellie said he was delighted by the community feedback on the project following the company’s recent move to Cranbourne’s town centre.
Medallist Developments is the company undertaking the project.
“We are proud to say we are one of the only property developers to have an office in the community we are developing in,” he said.
“We have tried to immerse ourselves in the local community. We are not trying to create a separate community but become an addition to Cranbourne.”
Construction of the homes will start in April 2006, with the first residents expected to move in by early 2007.
The golf course is due for completion in mid 2007.
