It has been a long time in the planning but only a short period in the building. With everything going pretty well to target (save a budget overrun or two) the 4th hole was introduced to the Akarana members on the 21st of September 2006.

The building of a new green is stage one of a two stage change to the layout. Ultimately the line of the hole will be pushed left toward the creek and a fairway bunker placed on the corner of the dog leg. But for now we will have to be content with the challenge of the raised green and Chris Pitman designed bunkered approaches.

The 4th is now ranked as the fourth hardest hole on the course (a coincidence perhaps?) but only time and statistics will tell how difficult this hole really turns out to be. The old one was a nightmare if you went above the pin and the new hole could be similar but for very different reasons. The key to managing this hole is to keep the tee shot left (if you are unable to hit it straight and long of course). If you stray to the right you will end up with no view of the green and a lay-up shot would be wise. With plenty of spots for placing the pin there are bound to be many stories told in the future. Maybe we will see an increase in pro lessons - especially tips for getting out of bunkers. Steep ones too!  

So what do you think of this hole? The writer has played it only once (so far) and managed a par. The fourball however recorded two ‘ringers’ and from low handicap golfers too. On the other hand rumour has it that one of the board members birdied it on their first attempt. Believe it or not.  

Have you played the hole yet? We’d like to know what you think.