The Springs Golf & Country Club

Overview: At Peats Ridge, The Springs presents 18 holes with a par of 72, about 20 minutes from Gosford and within reach of Sydney and Newcastle. The course runs through rural ground, mature native trees, natural streams and water features. Its blue scorecard is about 6,782 metres, or roughly 7,410 yards, but the interest comes from elevation and line as much as length. Uphill and downhill shots make club selection particularly important.

History: The course was developed in stages and is associated with two Australian designers. Golf NSW records the first 11 holes as the work of Al Howard and the final seven as the work of Graham Papworth. That split is central to the course's character: different sections present different shapes and rhythms while still forming a coherent full round. The venue has become a popular Central Coast stop and welcomes social play seven days a week.

Did You Know? The first part of the course brings water, bush and rocky outcrops into play, while the later holes provide a different sequence of decisions. The contrast is useful for players who like a course to change personality during a round. It also explains why The Springs can feel both scenic and demanding without relying on forced hazards on every hole.