TIRHATUAN GOLF CLUB HISTORY
The original Clow’s Homestead
Early Settlement
In August 1838, the Rev James Clow obtained squatting rights and established a large pastoral run in the area named “Corhanwarrabul”. He built his homestead “Tirhatuan” near Wellington Road on the banks of Dandenong Creek.
TIRHATUAN GOLF CLUB BEGINNINGS
Tirhatuan Golf Club Inc. formerly known as Tirhatuan Park Golf Club Inc. was formed in 1981 when a number of regular players held a meeting at the Dandenong Town Hall with a view to form a club on the course. Soon afterwards Tirhatuan Park Golf Club was formed.
Tirhatuan Golf Course was first open for play in 1978, the course initially being a nine hole course (currently the back nine holes), designed and constructed by Eric Horne. The current front nine holes was also designed by Eric Horne and the company, Green Masters, with the construction work being carried out by local council and the now eighteen hole course was opened for play in 1981.
TIRHATUAN GOLF CLUB HISTORY
Our original clubhouse has been extended. The extension was added to the right hand end of the building in the photo, extending towards the 10th tee. The change also includes an increase to the size of the pro-shop as well as the totally new members clubroom. Work began on 7th March 2006 and we moved into our new premises at the beginning of June of that year.
The next major change took place in July 2018.
The Course changed its name to ROWVILLE LAKES, and a new management team was installed.
The Club said farewell to Brian, Marlene, Ray, Mitch, Colin, Michael and greeted the new team of Sean, Chris and Stewart.
During 2018 Ray has returned to assisting in management of the pro shop, his efforts in the kitchen are much welcomed.
WHAT DOES TIRHATUAN MEAN?
The name “tirhatuan” is generally thought to be an aboriginal word referring to the “flying or gliding possums” which once abounded in the area. The Sugar Glider (Petaurus breviceps) is a small gliding possum native to eastern and northern mainland Australia, New Guinea, and the Bismarck Archipelago, and introduced to Tasmania. Once common, the tirhatuan can still be found in the area.
It is around 16 to 20 cm (6.3 to 7.5 in) in length, with a slightly longer tail, and weighs between 90 and 150 grams (3 to 5.3 oz). The fur is generally pearl grey, with black and cream patches at the base of the pink ears. The tail tapers only moderately and the last quarter of it is black, often with a white tip. The muzzle is short and rounded.
Our club has proudly adopted the tirhatuan as our club logo.