Fairbairn Golf Club in Shock as Defence Sell-Off Unveiled: Airport Eyes Opportunity
The Fairbairn golf course, a 65-hectare expanse near Canberra Airport, has been thrust into the spotlight as part of a Defense sell-off, leaving club members stunned. Despite recently signing a new five-year lease, the course's future hangs in the balance. Established in the 1960s on a former Royal Australian Air Force base, it now faces an uncertain destiny.
Club President Brian Depree, on the course when he received the news, expressed his shock. "It came out of the blue," he said. The club's plans for a 10-year development strategy are now on hold, as the question arises: what triggered this sudden change of course? One potential suitor is Canberra Airport, which could see an opportunity in integrating the golf course into its holdings.
The golf course's proximity to the airport and its historical role as a green buffer between the live-fire range and homes have been key considerations. However, the extent of contamination from PFAS in firefighting foam adds a layer of complexity. Defense has been testing the soil near the old firefighting area, detecting low amounts of contamination.
Fairbairn Golf Club, with 882 members from across Canberra, many with ties to Defense, is now grappling with the implications. The club's affordable rates have been a draw for members, but the sale could impact their ability to maintain these prices. The club's interest in acquiring the course was genuine, but the commercial market presents a challenge.
Canberra Airport's Group Head of Property, Richard Snow, acknowledged the potential opportunity but remained cautious. "We just have to work out how that golf course is going to be sold, what are the restrictions, what it all means," he said. The land's current restrictions prevent housing development, and the Property Council ACT & Capital Region Executive Director, Ashlee Berry, suggests focusing on industrial and commercial land development in the area, known for its warehousing and logistics operations.
