Just a cruisy hour and a half from Melbourne, tucked away in the bushy charm of Creswick, sits a course that’s changed names more times than a dodgy footy club sponsor. Once known as Creswick Golf Club, then Creswick’s Forest Resort, and now flying under the banner of RACV Goldfields, no one really knows who’s running the joint — but one thing’s for sure: the course itself is an absolute beast.
Set across 150 acres of native bushland and designed by Tony Cashmore, this par-72 layout isn’t here to make friends. It’s narrow. It’s ruthless. And it’s flanked by more trees than a koala convention. Step out of line and your ball’s gone bush faster than a trailbike on a long weekend.
Kicking off with a no-nonsense par 4 at 388m (424y) from the blacks, the course sets the tone early — hit it straight or start digging into your sleeve of backups. Hole 2 gives you a bit of room to swing at 327m (357y), but don’t relax too much or you’ll be hacking out of the undergrowth again.
Then there’s Hole 3, a par 3 at 193m (211y), that looks innocent but plays like it’s got something to prove. Breezy conditions, elevation shifts, and a green that shrugs off weak efforts like a dad joke at Christmas — it’s all part of the fun.
What makes this place so memorable (besides the name drama) is the unrelenting challenge. Elevation changes, tight doglegs, water hazards, and fairways that punish anything less than perfection. It’s not just a test of your golf swing — it’s a full-blown mental resilience exam.
Off the course, the RACV Goldfields Resort brings the goods: a Novotel hotel, restaurant, and spa for when you’re done being emotionally battered by hole 14. So whether you’re chasing pain, punishment, or just a seriously scenic knock with your mates, this place delivers — in spades and sometimes in swears.
Bring your A-game, and maybe a chainsaw… just in case.
Location: 1500 Midland Highway, Creswick, VIC, Australia
Website: https://www.racv.com.au/
Phone: +61 7 5501 7370
Tee Boxes
| Tee | Yardage | Course Rating | Slope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 6019 | 73 | 129 |
| Blue | 5680 | 71 | 125 |
| White | 5325 | 69 | 118 |
| Red | 0 |
Hole by Hole Breakdown
“RACV Goldfields Hole 1 – Par 4
Index: 7
Lengths: Black: 388 metres, Blue: 376 metres, White: 363 metres, Red: 0 metres
Kicking off the round, Hole 1 is a straightforward par 4 that doesn’t muck about. From the black tees, you’re looking at 388 metres (424 yards) of prime fairway, slightly less daunting from the blue at 376 metres (411 yards), and a more manageable 363 metres (397 yards) from the white. No red tees here, so it’s not one for the faint-hearted from the jump. With a stroke index of 7, it’s neither a brute nor a breather, sitting comfortably in that ‘make or break’ territory early in the game. There aren’t any flashy points of interest to distract you, just pure, unadulterated golf. The challenge here lies in mastering the basics: a solid tee shot followed by a strategic approach could set the tone for a cracking round. So best to keep your wits about you and start strong—this hole’s a subtle test of what’s in your bag and your head.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 2 – Par 4
Index: 12
Lengths: Black: 327 metres, Blue: 285 metres, White: 275 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 2, a tidy par 4 that plays 327 metres (357 yards) from the black tees, stepping down to 285 metres (312 yards) from the blue, and 275 metres (301 yards) off the white. Don’t let the lack of red tees fool you; this isn’t one to underestimate. With a stroke index of 12, it’s not the toughest on the card, but it demands a bit of noggin use. This hole is straightforward in layout, a real chance to flex your driver without too much worry, provided your aim is true. The fairway is generous, but don’t get too cocky—stray too far off the path, and you’ll be getting to know the rough better than you’d like. Ideal for those looking to recover from a rugged start or make some steady ground, Hole 2 is a breather but keep your wits about you to make the most of it.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 3 – Par 3
Index: 13
Lengths: Black: 193 metres, Blue: 174 metres, White: 145 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 3 — a deceptive little par 3 that might look straightforward but demands a keen eye and a steady hand. Stretching 193m (211y) from the black tees, 174m (190y) from the blues, and a more forgiving 145m (159y) from the whites, it offers a bit of relief as the 13th easiest hole on the course. But don’t let that fool you; the absence of traditional hazards belies the true challenge of mastering the green’s subtle undulations and the prevailing winds that often come into play. It’s a test of precision, where overshooting the green is as much a risk as falling short. This hole might not have the dramatic flair of others, but it’s a fine opportunity to snag a birdie or, at the very least, save par and boost your confidence as you head into the tougher challenges that lie ahead.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 4 – Par 4
Index: 5
Lengths: Black: 302 metres, Blue: 270 metres, White: 255 metres, Red: 0 metres
Hole 4 at our course is a cheeky Par 4 that can make or break your front nine with its sly challenges. Stretching out to 302 metres (330 yards) from the black tees and shortening to a more manageable 255 metres (279 yards) from the whites, this hole demands a well-thought-out tee shot. Don’t let the absence of obvious hazards fool you; the real test here is the subtle undulations of the fairway that can send a seemingly perfect drive into a less-than-ideal lie. With a stroke index of 5, it ranks among the tougher tests on the course, forcing players to really strategize their approach. Whether you’re laying up or going for the green, precision is key to walking away with a satisfying score on this deceptive beauty.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 5 – Par 5
Index: 9
Lengths: Black: 473 metres, Blue: 465 metres, White: 427 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 5, a mighty Par 5 stretching out to a hefty 473m (517y) from the black tees. It’s a bit shorter from the blues at 465m (508y) and more forgiving from the whites at 427m (467y). This one’s ranked a solid stroke index 9, so while it’s not the toughest on the course, it demands respect and a decent bit of strategy. With no significant landmarks or tricky water hazards to speak of, the challenge here lies in mastering the length and navigating the subtle contours that can fool even the sharpest eyes. The fairway’s broad shoulders may seem welcoming, but the real test is in managing your shots to avoid a scorecard disaster. It’s a straightforward haul to the green, but remember, overconfidence here can be as risky as a short putt on a windy day. Keep it steady, and this hole can be a true friend, or at least not your worst enemy.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 6 – Par 5
Index: 6
Lengths: Black: 484 metres, Blue: 445 metres, White: 435 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 6, the beast of a Par 5 where the dreams of many have been dashed or defined. Stretching out to a hefty 484 metres (529 yards) from the black tees, this hole isn’t just a walk in the park. The blue markers set you back a still-daunting 445 metres (487 yards), and from the whites, it’s 435 metres (476 yards). Here, there’s no red tee luxury, making it a true test for every golfer. With a stroke index of 6, this hole demands respect, blending challenge with strategy. The fairway is a broad canvas, but don’t let its openness fool you; positioning here is key. It’s all about the second shot, where the wise aim to set up a clear approach, steering clear of the subtle undulations that can turn a good round sour. While it lacks the dramatic flair of ponds or sweeping doglegs, the real intrigue of Hole 6 lies in mastering its length and plotting each stroke with care. Those who conquer this hole often carry their triumph to the clubhouse with a swagger.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 7 – Par 4
Index: 18
Lengths: Black: 249 metres, Blue: 241 metres, White: 229 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 7, a cheeky Par 4 that might seem like a breather at first glance but demands your attention. With its stroke index sitting comfortably at 18, it’s the easiest on the card, but don’t let that fool you into complacency. Stretching out to 249m (272y) from the black tees, 241m (263y) from the blue, and a more forgiving 229m (250y) from the white, it’s not the length that’ll test you here—there’s no red tee to speak of, and no standout features like bunkers or water hazards to complicate your game. The real challenge lies in mastering the subtle undulations and the strategic play required to set up for a solid approach. Perfect for a bit of relaxed strategising, this hole allows you to take a momentary breather and enjoy the game without the pressure of trickier obstacles. Just keep your wits about you, play it smart, and you might just walk away with a satisfying par—or better.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 8 – Par 3
Index: 17
Lengths: Black: 152 metres, Blue: 144 metres, White: 138 metres, Red: 0 metres
Hole 8 at our course is a deceptive little beauty—a par 3 that might look like a breather on the card with a stroke index of 17, but don’t let that fool you. Stretching out to 152 metres (166 yards) from the black tees, and slightly less daunting at 144 metres (157 yards) from the blues and 138 metres (151 yards) from the whites, it demands a precise tee shot. While there aren’t any standout features like bunkers or water hazards to catch your eye, the challenge here lies in the subtlety of the green’s contouring and the prevailing winds that can sway a seemingly straight shot into a dance across the grass. It’s the sort of hole that might not stick in your mind for its drama but will test your finesse and mastery of the short game. A par here is well earned, making it a quiet achiever in the round.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 9 – Par 4
Index: 3
Lengths: Black: 404 metres, Blue: 390 metres, White: 372 metres, Red: 0 metres
As you wrap up the front nine, Hole 9 at 404m (442y) from the black tees proves it’s no walk in the park. Ranked a challenging stroke index of 3, this par 4 demands precision and patience. From the tee, it’s all about line and length. The fairway narrows as you approach the green, teasing your inner daredevil to take a riskier shot. Without any significant landmarks or tricky water hazards, the real test here is managing the subtle undulations of the land which can deceive even the most seasoned golfers. The approach is a true test of your short game, with a green that’s more guarded than a top-secret dossier. Whether it’s a brute or a breather depends on your tee-off, but either way, this hole keeps the game enticing right to the turn.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 10 – Par 5
Index: 16
Lengths: Black: 443 metres, Blue: 424 metres, White: 410 metres, Red: 0 metres
As you kick off the back nine, Hole 10 at this course doesn’t mess about. Stretching a solid 443 metres (484 yards) from the black tees, it’s a par 5 that offers a bit of a breather with its generous fairway and a stroke index of 16. The challenge here isn’t in avoiding hazards—there aren’t any headline-grabbing features like menacing bunkers or deceptive water traps. Instead, the game here is all about positioning and pacing. From the blue tees, you’re looking at 424 metres (464 yards), and from the white, a more approachable 410 metres (448 yards). There’s a straightforward beauty to this hole; it’s less about the spectacle and more about the strategy. Nail your tee shot, plan your approach, and you could be looking at a satisfying score. Just the kind of hole to settle into the rhythm of the back nine, don’t you think?
“RACV Goldfields Hole 11 – Par 4
Index: 8
Lengths: Black: 367 metres, Blue: 356 metres, White: 349 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 11 — she’s a sly one, mates. A Par 4, with a stroke index of 8, measuring a tidy 367 metres (401 yards) from the black tees, 356 metres (389 yards) from the blue, and 349 metres (382 yards) from the white. Noticeably, there’s no red tee here, which might throw off the rhythm for some. The layout’s straightforward, but don’t be fooled by the lack of flashy points of interest. The true challenge lies in mastering the subtle undulations of the fairway, which can toy with your ball like a joey in a jumper. It’s all about placement and approach: nail your tee shot and you’re setting up for a solid birdie chance. But get too cheeky and you might find yourself grappling for par. This one may not be the brute of the course, but it’s definitely not taking a breather either. So, choose your clubs wisely, aim your shots smarter, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll come out on top.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 12 – Par 4
Index: 10
Lengths: Black: 340 metres, Blue: 330 metres, White: 319 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 12, this one’s a cheeky Par 4 that might seem straightforward but demands a bit of respect. With a stroke index of 10, it’s neither the toughest on the course nor a walk in the park. From the black tees, you’re looking at 340 metres (372 yards), stepping down to 330 metres (361 yards) from the blue, and a more manageable 319 metres (349 yards) from the white. What makes this hole particularly engaging is the strategic play it demands. There’s no red tee here, and no flashy points of interest to distract you — it’s just you, the fairway, and your clubs. The key to mastering this hole is all in the approach. Nail that, and you might just walk off with a grin. Keep it straight, watch the wind, and play smart. This hole is a solid test of your mid-game prowess.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 13 – Par 3
Index: 11
Lengths: Black: 165 metres, Blue: 158 metres, White: 152 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, lucky number 13 at our course isn’t one to be underestimated, despite its seemingly straightforward par 3 structure. Stretching from the back tees at 165m (180y) down to a more manageable 152m (166y) from the whites, this hole is a bit of a sleeper challenge, ranked at a stroke index of 11. There’s no red tee here, and honestly, it’s not missed, as the existing tees provide enough of a test. Although it skirts the drama of water hazards or maddening doglegs, the real game here is about precision and choosing the right club. A solid tee shot can make or break your scorecard, as overshooting the green can be just as punishing as falling short. It’s one of those holes that might not look like much at first glance but plays like a cheeky quiz question that catches you off-guard if you haven’t paid attention.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 14 – Par 4
Index: 4
Lengths: Black: 353 metres, Blue: 307 metres, White: 299 metres, Red: 0 metres
Hole 14, a par 4 with a stroke index of 4, might not dazzle with scenic distractions, but it commands respect for its strategic play. Stretching out to 353m (386y) from the black tees, and scaling down to 307m (336y) and 299m (327y) from the blue and white, respectively, this hole offers a straightforward challenge where precision off the tee is key. There’s no red tee here, making it a bit of an enigma for the regulars. Without major features like bunkers or water hazards, the real test lies in managing the subtle undulations and the deceptive green, which has fooled more than its fair share of seasoned golfers. It’s a classic case of what you see is what you get, and if you’re not sharp, this sleeper hole will rattle your scorecard before you know it.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 15 – Par 4
Index: 2
Lengths: Black: 396 metres, Blue: 364 metres, White: 323 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 15, a true test of mettle and strategy with its Par 4 and formidable stroke index of 2. Stretching out at 396 metres (433 yards) from the black tees, and scaling down to 364 metres (398 yards) from the blue and 323 metres (353 yards) from the white, this hole doesn’t shy away from challenging even the most seasoned players. There’s no red tee here, making it an all-or-nothing affair right from the tee-off. The lack of distinct points of interest means the hole’s difficulty lies in its layout and the precision it demands. With its undulating fairways and strategically placed hazards, every shot requires careful thought. It’s not just about power; it’s about smart play and finesse. Whether you’re aiming to lay up or go for the green, Hole 15 doesn’t just test your swing, it tests your game plan. A true golfer’s puzzle, this hole keeps the round interesting right when you need it most.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 16 – Par 5
Index: 14
Lengths: Black: 420 metres, Blue: 412 metres, White: 377 metres, Red: 0 metres
Hole 16 is where you can let the big dog eat, a generous Par 5 stretching out to 420m (459y) from the black tees, making it a tempting prospect for the long hitters. Not quite the brute some others are, with a stroke index of 14, it gives a bit of a breather but don’t be fooled into complacency. The fairway is a straightforward affair, offering clear lines off the tee and a chance to really open up the shoulders. For those playing from the blue at 412m (450y) or the white at 377m (412y), strategy still plays a key part. The absence of major hazards lets the mind focus purely on placement and power, setting up an opportunity for a satisfying score if played with a bit of finesse and forethought. Ideal for a bit of heroic play without the drama of navigating through a gallery of natural obstacles. Take advantage, because opportunities like this don’t come often!
“RACV Goldfields Hole 17 – Par 3
Index: 15
Lengths: Black: 145 metres, Blue: 131 metres, White: 119 metres, Red: 0 metres
Ah, Hole 17, the penultimate test and a cheeky little par 3 to keep you on your toes. Stretching out at 145 metres (159 yards) from the black tees, it scales down to a more manageable 131 metres (143 yards) off the blues, and 119 metres (130 yards) from the whites. Don’t blink — there’s no red tee to save you here, mate. With a stroke index of 15, this one’s a bit of a breezer, giving you a moment to catch your breath before the final showdown on the 18th. The absence of major landmarks or tricky hazards might fool you into thinking it’s a walk in the park, but don’t be deceived. The real game here is about precision and mastering the subtle art of the short game. Select your club wisely, gauge the wind, and whatever you do, don’t overshoot — unless you fancy a hunt for your ball as a prelude to a cold one back at the clubhouse. Play it smart, and you might just snag a birdie to brag about as you head to the final hole.
“RACV Goldfields Hole 18 – Par 4
Index: 1
Lengths: Black: 418 metres, Blue: 408 metres, White: 338 metres, Red: 0 metres
As you approach the 18th, be ready for a finish that truly tests your mettle. With a par 4 layout and a stroke index of 1, this hole, stretching a solid 418m (457y) from the black tees and 408m (446y) from the blue, isn’t pulling any punches. The shorter white tees offer a slightly less daunting 338m (370y), but don’t let that fool you. The course architects were in a particularly mischievous mood here, weaving in subtle challenges that demand precision and strategic thinking. There’s no grand water feature or sprawling bunker to steal the show; instead, it’s all about the raw challenge of the game. The fairway might seem inviting, but its undulations and the strategic placement of hazards can easily trip up even the most seasoned players. This hole is a true test of your golfing prowess, making it a fitting climax to your round. So, take a deep breath, choose your club wisely, and give it your best shot. Here’s to finishing strong and maybe even bragging a bit at the clubhouse later!
Course Stats Summary
- Holes: 18
- Total Par: 72
- Longest Hole: 484 metres
- Shortest Hole: 145 metres
