Upgrading of Broome Golf course to 18 holes will boost tourism

26/10/97

Water Resources Minister Dr Kim Hames said today he was confident the upgrading of the Broome Golf Course to 18 holes would boost tourism to the already booming town.

"Broome is a highly regarded tourist destination and an extended golf course should prove an attractive additional incentive to visit," Dr Hames said.

"The first nine holes are in beautiful condition and work is under way on the second nine."

Dr Hames visited the golf course while in Broome on his way to the Kununurra State Cabinet meeting. It was his first chance to look at the new development.

"In late September, the Water Corporation announced it would provide the club with an interest free loan to be paid back over 10 years to finance another nine holes," he said.

"It will be the only fully reticulated course between Geraldton and Darwin."

Dr Hames said the agreement enabled the financing, building and irrigating of the additional nine holes.

Work was due to be completed in November and the remodelled course ready for play by April next year.

Irrigating the course would be maintained through a greatly increased flow of treated wastewater from the Broome Wastewater Treatment Plant.

"The agreement is an excellent result for the golf club, the Shire of Broome and the Water Corporation," the Minister said.

"The irrigation of the second nine holes allows the corporation to dispose of two thirds of the current daily flow of treated wastewater, the golf club is able to provide an 18-hole course for the benefit of Broome residents and visitors and the shire obtains a supply for use on public reserves."

Dr Hames said the re-use of as much treated wastewater as possible was a priority.

"Wastewater is a viable, reusable product and the Broome project clearly demonstrates this," he said.

Media contact: Caroline Lacy (08) 9272 7222