PLAY AGAIN (AND AGAIN)

Ask anyone who's played Ocean Shores Country Club, and they'll say the same thing: it's a challenge, but worth every shot.

Just 30 minutes south of the Gold Coast and 15 minutes north of Byron Bay, Ocean Shores solves a problem that's becoming rare on this stretch of coast — a championship course where you can get a tee time. No packed fairways, no five-hour rounds, no weeks-long wait. It's more golf, less waiting.

That doesn't make it an easy course. Designed by Australian golfing legend Bruce Devlin and internationally acclaimed architect Robert von Hagge, Ocean Shores is widely regarded as one of the North Coast's most rewarding championship layouts, winding through tidal estuaries, native wetlands and coastal scenery, with every hole offering something different.

The signature design runs six par 3s, six par 4s and six par 5s, with no two holes of the same par played back-to-back. Add expansive greens, strategic bunkering and water that seems to find every stray ball, and you've got a course that keeps asking questions. You'll lose a few balls. You'll also be back for another round, already thinking about the shot you could have played differently and the putt that almost dropped.

If you're keen to sharpen your game, you're in good hands. Multi award-winning PGA Professional Chris Graham coaches men, women and juniors, whether you're picking up a club for the first time or chasing a lower handicap. The Club's popular Women in Golf program has introduced dozens of local women to the game through relaxed, fun sessions built as much around friendship and confidence as technique.

You don't need a low handicap, the latest gear or a rulebook memorised. Visitors, beginners, families and seasoned golfers are all equally welcome. Tuesdays run 2-for-1 green fees, making it the perfect excuse to grab a mate and hit the fairways. Or treat yourself to the Twin Share Package for $85 per person, including 18 holes of championship golf, a shared motorised cart and a delicious lunch at Pacific Breeze Restaurant. It’s one of the best-value golf days on the North Coast.

The recently refurbished clubhouse has become its own destination. Pacific Breeze Restaurant serves fresh, generous meals overlooking the course, while the deck offers the perfect spot for a cold drink as the afternoon fades, and there's barefoot bowls and live entertainment for anyone happy to skip the golf altogether.

Ocean Shores isn't trying to be exclusive. It's simply trying to be one of the most enjoyable places on the Northern Rivers to play a round, share a meal and spend time with good company. And judging by the number of golfers who keep coming back for "just one more round," it's doing a pretty good job.

oceanshorescc.com.au