There’s something about Chirnside Park Country Club that feels like coming home – you know the kind of place where everyone knows your name after a few visits. Tucked away in the Yarra Valley, this is where golfers, foodies, and locals all converge to knock back a good feed and some even better birdies. It’s a club that puts as much love into the social as it does into the sport – whether you’re a casual fanatic or just looking for a top-notch feed with al fresco dining and vineyard views to boot.
I’ve been popping in for years now – sometimes just for a few swings at the Gardiners Run Golf Course that’s right next door, other times for a quiet pint at the Sports Bar after a round – you know, just unwinding with the guys. If you’re new to the area or just exploring the outer east side of Melbourne, you’ll find the welcome here is just as warm as the sunshine over the 18th green on a Saturday arvo.
You can’t help but feel the local pride when you visit this place. The Chirnside Park Country Club started life back in the 1970s as a little 9-holer amidst the orchards and paddocks – and from there it just grew and grew. And fast forward a few decades, and it’s now the real deal – with dining, live music, barefoot bowls and raffles that could keep you stocked up for weeks.
What really keeps this place ticking, though, isn’t the greens or the grub (although they’re pretty good too) – it’s the people. The staff will greet you by name like you’re a regular, the golfers will be chatting you up on the course, and Friday night is just like catching up with the neighbours. It’s one of those places that feels like it really belongs to the community.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 68 Kingswood Drive, Chirnside Park VIC 3116 |
| Distance From Melbourne CBD | ~35 km (about 45 minutes’ drive) |
| Course Type | 18-hole, Par 70 |
| Dining Options | Bistro, bar, sports lounge, private function rooms |
| Facilities | Golf course, bowls, tennis, gaming, live entertainment |
| Average Visitors | 3,500+ weekly |
| Dress Code | Smart casual (collared shirt for golfers) |
| Membership | From $580 per year (golf), $5 social membership |
| Opening Hours | 10 am–late (bistro), dawn–dusk (course) |
Swing Easy: Golf the Easy Way
Golf at Chirnside Park is all about balance — a championship course without the attitude. The fairways follow the natural contours of the land, with plenty of room for casual players, but enough challenge to keep the serious swingers honest.
Affiliated with Golf Australia, the course is for everyone — from local Pennant golf players to interstate and overseas golfers looking for a relaxed Yarra Valley golfing experience. The greens are always green, and the elevated holes have some of the best valley views this side of the Heritage Golf and Country Club.
Local Tips From The Fairway
- Morning Rounds: Catch the mist lifting off the fairways — and a few lazy roos on the rough.
- Cart Hire: Available daily — handy if you’re playing back-to-back at Chirnside and Gardiners Run.
- Pennant Practice: Wednesdays and Saturdays with friendly locals.
It’s a club that takes golf seriously, but not itself.
Dining Done Right: Comfort Food And Cold Drinks
The Country Club-Bistro is where it all winds down. No white tablecloths here, just à la carte dining with personality. The menu is a mix of pub favourites, modern Australian comfort food and a few surprises from chefs like Nelly Robinson — known for his playful contemporary dining.
Menu Highlights
- Indonesian Vegetable Curry – mild spice, coconut base, local greens.
- Char Grilled Lemon Chicken Breast – tender, citrusy and a Yarra Valley favourite.
- Barramundi Fillets – crisp skin, served with lemon butter sauce.
- Chicken Parmas & Fish ‘n’ Chips – crowd-pleasers done right.
- Pumpkin Ravioli – rich, cheesy comfort for a cool May evening.
If you’re in the mood for a snack and a drink, the Sports Bar is your ticket – they’ve got a great selection of share plates: Pork Belly Bites, Potato Skins, and Garlic Bread are a few of the tasty options. Grab a comfy spot in the alfresco area and take in the view of the landscaped gardens while you work your way through a plate.
The drinks menu is a real showstopper – they’ve got local drops from Yarra Valley wineries, some top-notch craft brews, and a few favourite labels from interstate to keep things interesting. The staff are absolute experts, and they’ll be happy to top up your drink for you.
Local Music, Events, And A Social Scene
Chirnside Park Country Club is so much more than just a spot for golf and grub – it’s the social hub of the area. They’ve got live music, theme nights and the occasional trivia night to keep things interesting.
But that’s not all – the function & conference rooms are super popular for corporate functions, weddings and milestone birthdays. The Main Room & Bar can fit a whopping 250 people, and they’ve got catering packages to suit every occasion – from casual drop-offs to full-on event packages. Whether it’s a local footy presentation night or a corporate do, they’ve got the flexibility (and the liability insurance all sorted out).
In the summer, the alfresco area is a real winner – think fairy lights, lawn views and a few happy golfers unwinding with a drink or two nearby.
A Place For Everyone - Memberships And Accessibility
Joining Chirnside Park Country Club isn’t just about waving your membership card around – they’ve got a range of affordable memberships that are designed for locals who just want to be part of a community that feels like home.
Membership Options
- Golf Membership: Get full access to club comps, practice facilities and member prices
- Social Membership: Just a few dollars a year for entry to the bar, bistro and events
- Bowls & Tennis: Perfect for folks who like a bit of under-arm action (and shorter walks)
It’s a real community – you’ll see retirees perfecting their putting alongside young families at trivia night. The staff make a genuine effort to make sure everyone feels included – no cliques, no gatekeeping.
Accessibility is really well sorted: wheelchair-friendly access right across the club, loads of parking, and local taxi or rideshare options are super easy to arrange if you do end up having one too many at the bar (because let’s face it, the Yarra shiraz can sneak up on you)
Seasons, Scenery, And Yarra Valley Charm
Best time to visit? Spring and autumn hands down. Greens are lush, valley air is crisp, and you can play a round and a wine trail weekend.
Summer afternoons can get hot — pack a hat, sunscreen and patience — while winter mornings bring fog that makes the course look like a painting.
Make A Day Of It
- Coldstream Brewery: Grab a craft pint nearby.
- Yarra Valley Chocolaterie: Dessert with a view.
- Domaine Chandon Or Coombe Estate: Wine tasting detours.
- Lilydale Lake: Picnic or family stroll.
The point is, Chirnside Park Country Club isn’t a one-off. It’s part of the Yarra Valley rhythm — a place where weekends roll between vineyards, golf tees and long lunches under gum trees.
FAQ
Do I Need To Be A Member To Dine At The Club?
No, the Country Club-Bistro and Sports Bar are open to the public. You can walk in for lunch or dinner any day.
Can Beginners Play The Golf Course?
Yes. The 18-hole golf course is open to all skill levels. Social rounds and lessons are available all year.
Is The Club Family-Friendly?
Smart casual — collared shirts and neat shorts or slacks. No singlets or thongs on the greens.
What’s The Dress Code For Golfers?
Smart casual — collared shirts and neat shorts or slacks. No singlets or thongs on the greens.
Can I Host A Private Event There?
Yes. The club offers event packages across multiple function rooms with catering and bar service for weddings, corporate days and parties.
