29/05/2026
The 18th Hole. My closing thoughts on Victoria Park.
Great for Brisbane.
Sad for golf.
Bittersweet for many.
While life seems to move at an increasingly rapid and frantic pace, it’s moments like these that force you to pause and reflect.
Evolution is a necessary part of a city, business and life and this is a big one.
I don’t envy the decision-makers torn between the optimism of what can become of our great city and the controversy and unease that comes with saying goodbye to what can’t come with us.
The hard question is: how do we embrace evolution while still paying homage to a venue that meant so much to so many.
Golf, deservedly at times, has carried the reputation of being elitist, non-inclusive and unwelcoming.
But I think we first need to ask: what is golf, and why is it important?
The game itself has undergone a massive evolution.
It’s the sport that eases the awkwardness of a first date.
It’s the excuse to spend meaningful time with that close friend.
It’s the reason mum and dad get a few hours away from work and life’s pressures.
Or maybe it’s the kid with a dream who gets to see what’s possible when they apply themselves to something challenging.
Golf is an escape.
It connects people and creates treasured memories in a life well lived.
For me, it’s about helping talented players reach their potential, while also helping those who simply want to whack a ball around with their mates and not embarrass themselves.
For many of those people, it all started here at Victoria Park.
In the coming days I’ll share the exciting news about my next chapter, but for now it’s time to say goodbye and thank you.
If you see the staff and coaches around, please be kind. Many have just had their jobs and businesses upended. Check in on them, because for many this is an uncertain time through no fault of their own. They do what they do for the love of the game and they do it for you.
This decision is great for Brisbane, but sad for golf and bittersweet for many.
Thank you to the place that made this possible.
Thank you to the people who made it happen.
Until our next round.
Darren
