Course Review - Andys Links
January 6th, 2007 by Doogs
Andys Links is one of Australia’s most exclusive courses, open to only a few lucky golfers once every two years. The course is located on private property outside Atherton in Far North Queensland. The layout was designed by myself, Andy and Robert, the first layout being 6 holes in 1998, extended to 9 holes in 2000. Conditions of the course are basic, the tees, fairways and greens tend to merge into one, with a 7 iron and wedge all that is required for the round (putting with a 7 iron about as accurate as a putter!). Balls have been known to get lost in the middle of the fairway!
Previously known as Andy’s Pines, after the Christmas tree pine plantation on the property, the course is now known as Andys Links thanks to Cyclone Larry. The Cyclone devasted Innisfail and surrounding areas in March 2006 before moving through the Tablelands and Andys property, raising almost all of the pine trees and many more Gums.
The course is home to the Wongabel Shield, a golf tournament held once every two years on Boxing Day. The field averages about 30 to 40 players ranging in age from 5 to 70. The Royal and Ancient Rules are loosely followed, with prizes for just about anything. With handicapping dubious, the winner is drawn from a hat!
1st Hole – Short
Without local knowledge, the first hole is deceptively short with many tee shots carrying on through the green. The first ‘green’ is the first introduction to putting on the Andy Links greens and care must be taken to read to subtle breaks, bounces and kicks off the bumpy greens!
3rd Hole – Pick the gap
The third hole needs a good drive to setup the second, avoiding two large gumtrees on either sides of the narrow fairway.
Out of bounds right, and deep rough behind the green.
6th Hole – Over the pond
The 6th hole is the signature hole on the course, played from next to the clubhouse, the short par 4 can be easily driven but an accurate shot is required to carry the pond, avoid the palm trees and hold the green.
Note the subtle deflections of the greens
9th Hole – Grip it and rip it
Once played into the pine plantation, this hole is now opened up to the drive. Care must be taken to avoid hitting into the vegie patch, the green is now situated in an inverted bowl providing a helpful kick towards the hole. The clubhouse is just a short walk away for the cleansing ale or palinka.