Media response 1 – STRYKR driving range at Port Noarlunga
Published on 24 December 2025
Enquiry – The Advertiser
The reporter asked further questions on the driving range.
Response
How many visitors/users is council expecting the new facility to attract annually? How does this compare to current numbers?
We don’t have detailed information on current patronage however we’re expecting a significant increase as development occurs at the site via broader and improved offerings (undercover range bays, mini golf, padel courts, and food and beverage offerings/facilities).
What is the cost of the redevelopment? How much is council investing into the redevelopment? And how much is council expecting to net in returns annually?
We’re expecting to generate a commercial rate of return from our investment in the project. Information on development costs, which is currently subject to a confidentiality order, will be released early in the new year.
Have the proposed changes received development approval?
A development application is yet to be lodged. Detailed design, which is being informed by community engagement, is currently underway.
Is council anticipating an increase in prices at the driving range once it's redeveloped?
The new operator is initially committed to maintaining current pricing arrangements and opening hours. Once the new facilities are developed, pricing for undercover technology assisted bays will be reviewed to reflect the improved services being offered. The site will retain a number of open grass bays for those users wishing to continue to use this service.
Why did council obtain the infrastructure through this clause instead of purchasing it? Does council feel this is fair to the current operators?
We’re negotiating in good faith to purchase equipment and assets from the current operators. This includes buildings and shipping containers onsite. The purchase price of these assets has been informed by an independent valuation. The clauses in the current 6-month licence (regarding alterations and additions such as fencing) are consistent with those in previous licence agreements for the site, going back to at least 2015.
Did council make any verbal commitments to the current operators and, if so, why did council seek new operators for the golf facility.
The current operator took over the current licence via assignment from the previous operator in late 2023. It was made clear in all correspondence that there was no guarantee the licence would be renewed for a further 5 years. We’re not aware of any verbal commitments being made to the contrary. Earlier this year, the current operators were given advance notice of our intent to undertake an expression-of-interest process for the future management of the site. They participated in that process but were unsuccessful.
ENDS