Women’s Australian Open to Tee Off in Melbourne

Victoria’s impressive line up of major golfing events has been bolstered with Melbourne securing the ISPS Handa Women's Australian for another three years.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Louise Asher and Minister for Sport and Recreation Hugh Delahunty announced the Victorian Government had committed to partnering with the event for 2012, 2014 and 2015. The 2013 event will be played in Canberra to commemorate the Centenary of Canberra celebrations.

The ISPS Handa Women's Australian Open will add to the already impressive lineup of major golfing events in Victoria including the prestigious Presidents Cup and the JBWere Australian Masters to be played later this year.

"Not only is this an excellent result for golfers but it's another step in maintaining Victoria's competitive edge as a major events destination and with world-class Sandbelt golf courses,” Ms Asher said.

The ISPS Handa Women's Australian Open will be played at Royal Melbourne Golf Club in Black Rock from 9 to 12 February 2012. Royal Melbourne is regularly rated as Australia's number one course and is among the top 15 courses in the world.

(Source: Tourism Victoria newsletter – Edition 85 September 2011)