Set among towering gums and natural bushland just 30 minutes from Brisbane, Brookwater Golf & Country Club is a course that demands attention. Designed by Greg Norman, Brookwater offers a challenging, visually striking layout that ranks consistently among Australia’s top public-access courses.
With dramatic elevation changes, tight fairways, and beautifully sculpted bunkers, this is not a casual hit-and-giggle track. Brookwater is a test—a rewarding one for those who embrace it.
Course Overview
- Location: Brookwater, Queensland (Greater Springfield area)
- Par: 72
- Length: 6,505m from championship tees
- Designer: Greg Norman
- Access: Public access (booking required; high demand on weekends)
Often referred to as Queensland’s best public course, Brookwater is all about precision, strategy, and risk-reward golf. From the back tees, it can be punishing. From the forward tees, it’s still a challenge—but far more manageable for mid-to-high handicappers.
Layout and Design
Carved into natural bushland, the course weaves through a rugged, tree-lined landscape. Expect tight corridors, undulating terrain, and elevated tee shots that reveal sweeping views over the forested valleys.
Standout Holes:
- Hole 2 – Par 4: A narrow fairway bends left around a deep bunker—placement is everything.
- Hole 5 – Par 3: One of the most scenic holes on the course—downhill, over water, framed by native bush.
- Hole 13 – Par 5: A true Greg Norman-style risk-reward hole with a narrow approach and heavy bunkering.
- Hole 18 – Par 4: Demanding closing hole with elevation and a guarded green—par here feels like a win.
Brookwater’s greens are tiered and well-protected, and club selection is critical due to swirling breezes and elevation shifts. It’s not easy, but it’s never unfair.
Conditions and Facilities
- Greens: Quick, firm, and true—some of the best putting surfaces in Queensland
- Fairways: Tightly mown and well-kept, though punishing if you miss them
- Bunkers: Deep, strategic, and visually striking—classic Norman styling
- Clubhouse: Modern and stylish with indoor and outdoor seating
- Practice Facilities: Excellent driving range, short-game area, and putting green
- Pro Shop: Well-stocked with premium gear and apparel
Staff are friendly and professional, and the presentation of the course rivals many private clubs.
The Experience
Brookwater is not for the faint of heart—but for golfers looking for a true test in a beautiful setting, it’s a dream. Every shot requires thought, and while the course can be punishing, the satisfaction of a well-played round here is hard to beat.
- Bookings are essential, especially on weekends
- Electric carts are included and recommended due to the terrain
- Pace of play is generally good, but can stretch on busy days—bring patience for the challenge
Dining options post-round are excellent, and the clubhouse deck is a perfect place to decompress after a tough day on the course.
Rating
| Category | Score (out of 10) |
|---|---|
| Scenery | 9 |
| Course Design | 9.5 |
| Playability | 7.5 |
| Facilities | 9 |
| Overall Experience | 9.2 |
Final Score: 8.8/10
Final Verdict
Brookwater Golf & Country Club is a must-play for serious golfers visiting Brisbane. It’s bold, beautiful, and brilliantly designed, offering a championship-level challenge in a stunning bushland setting.
Perfect for:
- Low-to-mid handicappers who want a strategic challenge
- Fans of Greg Norman’s design philosophy
- Golfers seeking a premium public course with resort-like presentation
Room for improvement:
- High handicappers may find it overly punishing from the wrong tees
- Not walkable due to elevation and distance between holes
- Demands a full bag and full focus—this is not a casual round
Still, if you’re after one of the best public golf experiences in Queensland, Brookwater delivers in spades.