Nestled just a stone’s throw away from bustling Melbourne CBD, a mere 40-minute drive will land you smack-bang in the middle of Darley’s hidden gem of a golf course. With 18 holes laid out like a feast for the keen golfer, this course isn’t just about whacking the dimpled ball; it’s a strategic battlefield, complete with scenic views that could easily distract even the most focused players. The course offers a trio of tee options – Black, Blue, and White – catering to everyone from the weekend warrior to the seasoned pro. From the get-go, the variety here keeps you on your toes.
Starting with a straightforward par 4 measuring 378m (414y) from the back tees, the course demands precision right from the first tee-off. No mucking around here; it’s about clean drives and sharp strategies. As you traverse the course, you’ll notice a pattern of clever design weaving through each hole. For instance, the second hole, a kind par 4 and the easiest on the card, stretches 378 meters (414 yards) from the black tees. It’s a breather but don’t get too cocky—complacency on the greens is a surefire way to bungle your scorecard. Then there’s the cheeky third, a short but tricky par 3 at just 166 metres (181 yards) from the black tees. It’s a strategic gem that challenges you to master the art of the tee shot with winds that like to stir up trouble, making it a thrilling test of skill and patience. Throughout the course, you’ll encounter a delightful mix of long par 5s, tight par 4s, and those tricky par 3s, all set against the backdrop of tree-lined fairways, subtle elevation changes, and the occasional dogleg just to keep things interesting.
This course isn’t just a test of strength; it’s a cerebral challenge demanding more than just muscle. It’s about reading the landscape, planning your moves, and executing with finesse. Whether you’re here to beat your personal best or just to have a hit with mates, Darley’s course is a cracker of a spot that welcomes all comers. So, grab your clubs, and let’s see what you’ve got!
Location: Links Road, Darley, VIC, Australia
Website: https://www.bmgolf.com.au/
Phone: +61 3 5367 2226
Tee Boxes
| Tee | Yardage | Course Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 6183 | 73 | 123 |
| Blue | 0 | 70 | 119 |
| White | 5309 | 67 | 110 |
Hole by Hole Breakdown
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 1 – Par 4
Index: 7
Lengths: Black: 378 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 291 metres
Hole 1 at our course kicks off with a straightforward Par 4, measuring a neat 378m (414y) from the back tees and a more forgiving 291m (318y) from the whites. Don’t let the lack of scenic distractions fool you; this hole is all about precision and strategy. With a stroke index of 7, it’s moderately challenging but a solid opportunity to get your round off to a confident start. The absence of a blue tee this time around suggests a streamlined approach, focusing solely on the essentials. It’s neither a brute nor a breather—think of it as your first test of wit on the greens. A clean drive is key to setting up a chance for birdie or an easy par, so choose your club and your line with care. As you take your shot, enjoy the open feel and the subtle complexities this hole offers.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 2 – Par 4
Index: 18
Lengths: Black: 378 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 365 metres
Hole 2 at our course might just be your chance to catch a breather and perhaps even impress. With a par 4 and labelled the easiest on the card, sporting a stroke index of 18, this hole offers straightforward play with few surprises. From the black tees, it stretches 378 metres (414 yards), while the white tees bring it slightly closer at 365 metres (399 yards). The lack of blue tee data suggests a typo or renovation—best check with the clubhouse. Despite no noted points of interest like menacing bunkers or deceptive water hazards, the true game here lies in mastering a clean, strategic approach. Ideal for setting a confident tone early in the round, or for a strong comeback if the opener shook you up. So, take a deep breath, set your sights, and let fly—this hole is ripe for the taking!
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 3 – Par 3
Index: 14
Lengths: Black: 166 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 159 metres
Ah, Hole 3, the shortest sprint of the course, but don’t let its modesty in length fool you. Clocking in at just 166 metres (181 yards) from the black tees and 159 metres (174 yards) from the whites, this par 3 might seem like a gentle stroll in the park. With a stroke index of 14, it’s tempting to mark it down as a breather, but here’s where strategy plays its ace. While there might not be any traditional eye-catchers like sprawling bunkers or menacing water hazards, the true test lies in mastering the tee shot. Precision is the name of the game here; it’s all about landing softly on the green, avoiding any roll-backs or mischievous winds that often like to join the party uninvited. A great opportunity to nab a birdie and strut confidently to the next challenge, or, just as easily, a moment to humble the overly ambitious.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 4 – Par 4
Index: 13
Lengths: Black: 349 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 310 metres
The fourth hole at our course is a cheeky little par 4, stretching 349m (382y) from the back tees and a more manageable 310m (339y) from the whites. With a stroke index of 13, it’s not the toughest nut to crack, but don’t let your guard down too quickly. There’s no flashy water or daunting tree lines to contend with, yet its simplicity is precisely where the challenge lies. Precision off the tee is key; too safe and you’re adding unnecessary length to your approach, too bold and you might find yourself flirting with the rough’s unruly edges. Ideal for those looking to recover from a rocky start or maintain a solid round, this hole is a strategic puzzle wrapped in a tranquil setting. Just step up, swing smooth, and let your game do the talking.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 5 – Par 3
Index: 3
Lengths: Black: 158 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 148 metres
Ah, Hole 5, the deceptive beauty of the course and a true test of precision. As the shortest hole on the links, clocking in at 158 metres (173 yards) from the black tee and a slightly more forgiving 148 metres (162 yards) from the white, it might seem like a quick win on paper. Don’t be fooled though; this Par 3 is ranked with a stroke index of 3 for good reason. With no significant landmarks or flashy hazards to distract, it’s all down to club selection and the golfer’s ability to manage the wind, which can often play tricks around this part of the course. It’s a straightforward challenge but demands respect — overshoot and you’ll be chipping your way back from beyond the green, under club and you’re staring down a long putt. Nail it, and you’ll feel like a hero. Miss it, and it’s a humble pie for tea. This hole is a breather in distance but a brute in play.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 6 – Par 4
Index: 8
Lengths: Black: 369 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 301 metres
Ah, Hole 6, a par 4 that doesn’t mess around. Stretching out to 369 metres (403 yards) from the black tees and a more forgiving 301 metres (329 yards) from the whites, this hole packs a subtle punch, earning its Stroke Index of 8. There’s no flashy water hazards or dense forests to wrestle with here, just the pure challenge of the game itself. It’s all about placement and strategy; a solid tee shot down the fairway sets you up for a clean approach, but don’t get too comfy. This hole demands precision, especially with the approach, as the green can be quite unforgiving. It’s not the beast of the course, but underestimate it at your peril—it’s got more bite than a dingo at dinnertime.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 7 – Par 5
Index: 12
Lengths: Black: 482 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 382 metres
Ah, Hole 7, a tantalising Par 5 stretching 482m (527y) from the black tees and a more manageable 382m (418y) from the white. With a stroke index of 12, this one’s a bit of a sleeper hit on the course—deceptively straightforward but don’t be fooled into complacency. The layout here is all about the tee-shot decisions; it’s a straightforward affair with no major tricks up its sleeve, but that’s exactly where it gets you. The fairway is generous enough to forgive a less-than-perfect drive, yet it’s the approach that demands finesse, ideally setting up for a birdie chance if you play your cards right. A simple beauty, this hole, lacking dramatic features but offering a true test of pure golfing strategy. It’s here that the steady hand and keen eye can make up ground, a classic example of less is more in course design. So, line up, take a deep breath, and let her rip—Hole 7 awaits.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 8 – Par 4
Index: 6
Lengths: Black: 395 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 324 metres
Ah, Hole 8, a true test of mettle in a par 4 format, stretching a solid 395m (432y) from the back tees and a more forgiving 324m (354y) from the whites. Ranked with a stroke index of 6, this hole isn’t pulling any punches, demanding precision over power. What it lacks in scenic distractions, it makes up for with its strategic play. The approach here is key; too bold and you’re flirting with disaster, too timid and you’ll face a longer, tougher second shot than you’d like. There’s no room for error, and the savvy golfer will need to play a bit of chess—thinking two moves ahead to land that ball gracefully on the green. It’s a hole where par feels like a minor victory and a birdie, a cause for celebration. So, choose your clubs wisely, and maybe keep that bold driver play for another, less crafty hole.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 9 – Par 5
Index: 4
Lengths: Black: 486 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 427 metres
Hole 9, a par 5 stretching a solid 486m (531y) from the black tees, is where the real test lies in wait. Notably shorter at 427m (467y) from the whites, this hole ranks as stroke index 4, making it one of the more challenging beasts on the course. Don’t let the absence of notable landmarks fool you; the beauty of this hole is in its strategic play. It demands precision off the tee and a keen eye for distance control. With a generous fairway that tempts the big hitters, the real challenge is in managing the approach. Skillful players will navigate this with thought, using the terrain to their advantage, turning what might look like a straightforward hole into a tactical puzzle. It’s a classic case of easier said than done, where the hole’s barebones character belies its true test.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 10 – Par 4
Index: 16
Lengths: Black: 325 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 316 metres
Hole 10 at our course is a cheeky Par 4, measuring up at a neat 325 metres (355 yards) from the black tees and 316 metres (346 yards) from the white. With a stroke index of 16, it’s more of a breather than a brute, giving you a bit of a respite as you kick off the back nine. There’s no flashy water hazards or sneaky bunkers to wrestle with here, just straightforward golf with a clear fairway inviting a solid drive. The lack of major obstacles doesn’t mean you can switch off though; it’s all about placing your tee shot smartly to set up a simple approach. Perfect for regaining some confidence if the front nine had you dancing more than a Saturday night at the local.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 11 – Par 4
Index: 2
Lengths: Black: 324 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 318 metres
Ah, Hole 11, a real tester at a Par 4 and ranking a solid 2 on the stroke index, it’s not one to underestimate. Stretching out to 324 metres (354 yards) from the black tee and a slightly more forgiving 318 metres (348 yards) from the white, this hole demands a keen eye and a steady hand. There might not be any flashy points of interest like sprawling water hazards or treacherous bunkers, but don’t let its apparent simplicity fool you. The key here is all in the approach — precision over power, strategy over strength. It’s the sort of hole where a well-placed tee shot sets you up for a satisfying par, or even a birdie if you’re on your game, while a misstep could easily spiral into a scorecard disaster. Hole 11 is subtle, challenging your tactical skills rather than just your swing.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 12 – Par 3
Index: 11
Lengths: Black: 170 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 160 metres
Ah, Hole 12 — the little ripper of the course and the shortest of the lot. It’s a par 3, measuring just 170 metres (186 yards), but don’t be lulled into thinking it’s a pushover. Sure, it’s a breather on the card, but it still packs a punch. With a stroke index of 11, it’s not the nastiest hole out there, but you’ll still need to pull the right club and hit your line. The green’s decent in size, but it’s well protected by a couple of sneaky bunkers just waiting to ruin your vibe. Nail it and you’re a birdie chance — fluff it and you might be in the sand wondering what went wrong. A cracking little hole that adds variety and keeps the banter rolling.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 13 – Par 5
Index: 15
Lengths: Black: 431 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 415 metres
Ah, Hole 13 — the ego-checker. A par 5 that stretches out to 431 metres (471 yards) from the blacks and 415 metres (454 yards) from the whites, but don’t let the yardage fool you — this one’s gettable in two if you’ve got the bottle. The key? Taking on the water off the tee. Play it safe and lay up short, and sure, you’ll sleep soundly tonight. But bomb it over the drink and you’re setting yourself up for an eagle putt and bragging rights at the bar.
With a stroke index of 15, it’s meant to be a breather — unless you wimp out and go the long way ‘round. The fairway’s friendly, the green’s accessible, and there’s nothing outrageous to dodge if you commit. So what’s it gonna be — play bold or play boring? The thirteenth rewards guts, not cowards.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 14 – Par 4
Index: 5
Lengths: Black: 296 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 432 metres
Ah, Hole 14 — short, sharp, and full of temptation. At just 324 yards (296 metres), this par 4 isn’t winning any awards for length, but don’t get cocky. With a stroke index of 5, there’s more to this one than meets the eye.
The smart play? Lay up short and steer well left to dodge the big ol’ tree lurking on the right. That thing’s claimed more golf balls than a dodgy driving range net. But hey, if you’re feeling bold (or just plain reckless), you could try and drive the green… just know there’s nowhere near enough landing zone, and overshooting means you’re deep in the hurt locker.
It’s a proper thinker’s hole — play it smart and you’re laughing, try to muscle it and you might be reaching for your provisional.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 15 – Par 4
Index: 10
Lengths: Black: 398 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 313 metres
Ah, Hole 15 — the certified heartbreaker. This par 4 is the hardest hole on the course, no question. Stroke Index 1, and it bloody earns it. Stretching out to 398 metres (435 yards) from the blacks and 313 metres (342 yards) from the whites, it’s not the distance that’ll get ya — it’s the dogleg left from hell.
Off the tee, it messes with your head. A good straight drive? You’re blocked out. Try to cut the corner? Forget it — the trees down the left are tall, thick, and completely unforgiving. And if you push it right with a little fade? Say g’day to the woods.
It’s one of those holes where playing safe still feels risky, and being brave feels plain stupid. You’ll need proper placement, solid nerves, and probably a bit of luck. Survive this one with par and you’ve earned yourself a smug grin all the way to the 16th tee.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 16 – Par 3
Index: 9
Lengths: Black: 183 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 164 metres
Ah, Hole 16, the shortest hole on the course, but don’t let its brevity fool you! This par 3 packs a punch and despite its Stroke Index of 9, playing it feels like threading a needle. From the back tees, you’re looking at 183 metres (200 yards) to the pin. Step it down a notch to the whites and you’ve got 164 metres (179 yards) to play with. There’s no blue tee action here, which might spare some blushes. There aren’t any headline-grabbing features like sinister bunkers or deceptive water hazards, but the true test here is all about precision and managing to land your tee shot on the dance floor. Underestimate this hole, and you’ll be ruing missed opportunities quicker than you can say “fore!” A true test of skill where the wise will aim to play it cool and collected.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 17 – Par 5
Index: 17
Lengths: Black: 473 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 397 metres
Ah, Hole 17, the penultimate test and a par 5 that stretches a healthy 473 metres (517 yards) from the black tees, scaling down to 397 metres (434 yards) from the whites. Without any notable points of interest like tricky water hazards or sneaky bunkers, you might think this hole is a straightforward romp towards the clubhouse. However, don’t be fooled by its apparent simplicity. The real challenge lies in its length and the strategic decisions it demands. With a stroke index of 17, it’s one of the easier holes on the card, offering a breather before the final push. The key here is a solid tee shot; nail that, and you’re setting yourself up for a potential birdie, or even an eagle if your stars align. Ideal for stretching the legs and the swing, this hole allows players a chance to recover their round or really go for broke.
Bacchus Marsh Golf Club Hole 18 – Par 4
Index: 1
Lengths: Black: 362 metres, Blue: 0 metres, White: 285 metres
As you stride up to the 18th, a par 4 of 362 metres (396 yards) from the back tees, brace yourself for a challenging finale. Known as the toughest on the course with its stroke index of 1, this hole is no walk in the park. At 285 metres (312 yards) from the white tees, it demands precision and power right from the tee shot. There are no fancy points of interest to distract you here, just straightforward, strategic golf. The fairway is a tight corridor flanked by subtle undulations that can make your ball dance to an unwanted tune if you’re not careful. The green, well-guarded and slightly elevated, refuses to forgive easily, especially under the pressure of a finishing hole. So, as you take your final swings, remember: it’s not just about power; it’s about smart play. Finish strong, and you’ll have earned every bit of bragging rights back at the clubhouse.
Course Stats Summary
- Holes: 18
- Total Par: 72
- Longest Hole: 486 metres
- Shortest Hole: 158 metres
