TEEING UP BIG GUN

Paradise Palms enlists Aussie star to transform course into golf tourism mecca

SPORTING legend Ian Baker-Finch (left) is to spearhead a plan to drive a new era in Far North golf tourism.

The experienced course designer will help Paradise Palms management create a new masterplan for the Kewarra Beach property.

The 1991 British Open champion will be involved in a long-term vision to return the 18-hole course and facilities to its hey-day.

Mr Baker-Finch arrives next month to begin the renaissance.

The Sunshine Coast resident will spend several days at the Kewarra Beach property to tweak the course layout.

“Ian is recognised and respected worldwide and wants to be part of it,” said Paradise Palms general manager Declan McCollam, of Troon Golf.

“Unfortunately golf tourism is not as strong in the Far North as it was during the 1980s and ’90s.

“The infrastructure here is ideal, but there hasn’t really been a push to promote the Far North as a golf destination.”

Mr Baker-Finch, 55, has helped design world-class courses such as Dubai’s Arabian Ranches Golf Club and The Links Kennedy Bay in Western Australia.

Mr McCollam said the plan was for a series of minor adjustments – rather than wholesale changes.

“We want to make sure the playing surface is optimal for every level of golfer,” he said.

“We want to make things easier to maintain and more affordable.

“Ian brings a fresh set of eyes and a wealth of experience.”

It is understood Mr BakerFinch, Australia’s golf team captain at the Rio Olympics, will return to Paradise Palms at least twice over the next 12 months.

After a recent trip to Singapore and Malaysia, Mr McCollam said Paradise Palms would also be ramping up its promotional efforts within the growing Asian market.

He said the Far North had the potential to one day host top tier events such as the Australian Open.

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive Alex de Waal welcomed the services of Mr Baker-Finch.

“Many people travel for golf and our direct access to Asia ensures we can readily tap into that market, which will appreciate a renewed focus on our region’s golfing infrastructure,” he said.