Bargara Golf Club has submitted twin development applications to Bundaberg Regional Council for a proposed resort-style facility featuring a club, accommodation and wellness centre.
The first is for a six-level licensed club and short-stay accommodation complex, provisionally named Club Bargara Resort. If approved, the resort will be located at the present clubhouse site that extends between the Esplanade and Miller Street.
The second includes a new members’ clubhouse along with two, five-level buildings comprising 48 apartments. They will be designed specifically for seniors living, planned for the northern corner of the adjacent golf course.
If approved, the new Club Bargara complex on Miller Street will provide a range of hospitality and entertainment facilities extending over two levels, with views of the ocean.
Above the club there will be four levels of accommodation with 100 hotel-style suites and six large top floor apartments for short-stay guests.
The third level will feature a wellness centre, recreation deck and an impressive glass-ended pool.
On-site parking is provided for 160 cars, with the complex connected to the Bargara Golf Course opposite by an existing pedestrian and buggy link under Miller Street.
The design – a collaboration of Leith Architects and Davis Sommerville Architects – features a double-height deck and a suspended mezzanine with function space for up to 400 people.
The proposed project will also feature an al fresco café and a trio of small kiosks set in landscaped grounds on the site’s Esplanade frontage, creating a family-friendly space designed to attract both locals and visitors.
The second proposed project is planned for a 7,500 square metre triangle site at the northern tip of the Club’s golf course.
A coastal-themed members clubhouse featuring a “butterfly roof” will have a wide patio overlooking the course’s tenth fairway.
Adjacent to the clubhouse will be two boutique-style, five-level apartment buildings designed specifically for seniors living.
Bargara Golf Club President, Dave Wilkinson said the projects would be game-changers for the coastal area.
“Not only will we be greatly expanding our club facilities, the Club Bargara Resort will provide a new generation of quality short-stay accommodation critical to the expansion of the region’s tourism market,” he said.
“As a community club we see it as our role to lead the way in providing facilities and experiences that bring social and economic benefits not just for our members, but the whole community.
“These projects are about ensuring the club and course’s future sustainability while at the same time building infrastructure that will attract visitors and support our growing tourist economy.
“And with that comes expanded training and employment opportunity for people of all ages within our community.”
Pendoley Environmental, recognized Australian experts in marine conservation and
global leaders in the monitoring of marine turtles in industrial environments, have been appointed to work on the two developments.
Pendoley principal, Dr Kellie Pendoley, has overseen the provision of advice and guidance on both projects, including recommending lighting strategies to ensure the projects meet all standards necessary with no adverse impact on sea turtles.