The Pat GC's busy bees deliver gold of a different kind

The Pat GC has been named winner of the Most Outstanding Environmental Initiative in the inaugural 2025 Golf Australia National Awards of Excellence.

The award recognises The Pat GC for its pioneering environmental efforts, becoming the first golf facility in South Australia to host six beehive colonies on its course at West Beach.

In addition to producing delicious honey for staff and golfers, The Pat GC’s busy bees were introduced in 2024 to support local pollination, biodiversity and community education on the critical role bees play in our ecology.

To further reduce emissions, waste, and noise, West Beach Parks, which operates The Pat GC, introduced solar power installations, battery-powered tools, recycled wastewater and golf ball recycling bins across the golf park. 

More than 10,000 native plantings and habitat projects—including nesting boxes and rockeries—have been, with experts such as Greening Australia and sustainability consultants measuring and auditing progress. 

West Beach Parks CEO Kate Anderson said The Pat GC ensured sustainability was woven into every player’s experience by celebrating events such as World Bee Day and installing informative on-course signage.

“Every round at The Pat GC offers a chance to learn about pollination, biodiversity and the small ways we can all contribute to a healthier planet,” Ms Anderson said.

“Being recognised with the Most Outstanding Environmental Initiative award is a proud moment for our staff, members and community, who have all embraced the vision of making golf more sustainable and environmentally responsible,” she said.

“What began as a sustainability initiative has evolved into something much more meaningful—our course is now a thriving habitat with the return of native birds, bats and bees and our members and visitors are actively engaging with our environmental story.”
The Golf Australia National Awards of Excellence recognise the clubs, venues, partners and individuals that have set new benchmarks for innovation, participation, growth and leadership in the game.

Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland said the Awards were a glimpse into the future of golf.

“Each winner this year demonstrates how golf can evolve, diversify and thrive while staying rooted in community,” Mr Sutherland said.  “Together, they form a blueprint for how golf across the country is growing stronger, more inclusive, and more relevant.”

The Pat GC (Formerly West Beach Parks Golf) is home to the some of the best public golf facilities in South Australia including the renowned Patawalonga Golf Course (18 holes) and The Short Course 50 (15 holes), TrackMan Driving Range and Golf Central Shop. 

For more information visit thepatgc.com.au.