Beaufort Golf Club will have lush greens all year round thanks to major drought-proofing investment by the Andrews Labor Government.
Premier Daniel Andrews visited Beaufort Golf and Bowls Club today to inspect a newly installed water system that allows the club to use bore water to keep their greens hydrated during the dry summer months.
The project was funded in partnership with Pyrenees Shire Council, with Labor Government contributing $65,000 from the Sustainable Water Fund.
The Fund plays a vital role protecting regional sports and recreation facilities during the hot, dry summer months.
Western Victorian communities have borne the brunt of recent droughts, which have affected community sporting facilities such as Beaufort Gold Club, which are the cornerstone of many regional towns.
To support these vital community organisations, a dedicated funding stream within the Sustainable Water Fund has provided $2.3 million for 25 projects across 11 municipalities.
These projects will provide water security by harvesting rainwater or stormwater, increasing use of recycled water, and using drought resistant turf and water efficient infrastructure.
The grants form part of the Labor Government’s $10 million Drought Support Fund announced last year. The use of the fund has been informed by extensive consultation with local stakeholders, who indicated strong support for measures that boost community health and wellbeing and deal with the impacts of drought.
Victoria’s Water Plan – Water for Victoria – also acknowledges the importance of securing water for a range of purposes – including community and recreational activities, and being ready for extended dry periods.
For more information and a list of projects, visit
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“During the recent drought, I saw first-hand the impacts of it upon every aspect of community life – that’s why we’re working closely with locals to ensure they get the support they need.”
“Local sporting clubs are the lifeblood of regional communities and we want to ensure that crucial facilities such as Beaufort Golf Club remain open and accessible, even in drier times. This is about putting people first.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water Lisa Neville
“Our Water Plan supports greater water security for local communities and recognises how important recreational water is for local communities.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford
“While recent rain is welcome, we know that we will continue to face many drier years ahead. We’re acting now to secure these critical sporting facilities for the years ahead.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020