The passionate volunteer group behind ‘Save Pakenham Golf Course and Hub’ made a painful decision to pause all action at their interim meeting on July 30.
With no progress from Cardinia Shire Council, the committee cannot move forward prematurely.
“We’re in a holding pattern or a holding camp. It’s most disconcerting,” campaign founder, Rich Paton said.
“There’s no point in laying out plans or trying to kick a goal before the whistle’s blown.
“Out of respect for Council and its feasibility study process, we cannot, and will not attempt to create an agenda and plans, for the assets that are Pakenham Golf Course, and Deep Creek Eco Centre.”
The volunteer committee is now under pressure as public criticism grows, accusing them of doing little.
“It feels like we’re juggling a chainsaw, an egg and a bowling ball, whilst being slapped,” Paton said.
“We are serious, we know there are expectations upon us to have all the answers, and we are far from naive, we must be patient and wait for the feasibility study results,” committee member Cheyrl added.
“In the meantime it is vitally important that people gather together. Watch and be alert, have your ideas and when the community get their say we will provide more forums to ensure everyone of us are heard and trust me, that is far from unserious.”
According to the committee, the long-awaited feasibility study, critical to deciding the golf course’s fate, has been delayed again.
“Back in June, the council said the feasibility study would take three months,” Paton said.
“We now think it’s been pushed out to around September, when it will be released for community engagement. A final decision is expected in October, I believe that’s now the mapped-out timeline.”
The lack of clear dates has added to uncertainty and concerns over council’s transparency.
“They’ve played their cards close to their chest,” Paton said.
Despite this, the group’s mission remains firm.
“Our primary objective is to demonstrate to the council that the community needs a golf course and community hub,” Rich said.
“The golf course and community hub are valuable assets, not liabilities. We thanked the council for maintaining the course instead of letting it fall into disrepair as it did during COVID.”
Beyond recreation, the group aims to rebuild community connection in an era of digital distraction and social challenges.
“There’s youth crime, gangs, machete attacks, break-ins, and carjackings. We’re more connected to our phones than to each other—and it’s left us deeply disconnected as a community,” Rich said.
He highlighted the broader social benefits of the project:
“Investing in these assets won’t just bring people together—it will save money by easing the pressure on police, paramedics, emergency services, and social workers. Stronger families, stronger communities, that’s what we’re missing.
“It could also support school programs where kids learn the rules and etiquette of golf, along with the values of respect—for the game, for others, and for themselves. These lessons build character, strengthen family life, and help young people unplug from screens. It’s a digital detox with purpose.”
The group also hopes to revive the club spirit that made the Pakenham Golf Club successful in its early days.
“It’s more than the stick and the ball,” Paton said.“It was about teams, togetherness, and belonging. That’s what we’re trying to bring back, because everyone needs to feel like they’re part of something.”
Cardinia Shire Council’s General Manager of Community and Planning Services, Debbie Tyson, responded to community concerns about delays in the feasibility study and uncertainty surrounding the future of the Pakenham Golf Course.
“No decision has been made regarding the long-term options for the Pakenham Golf Course,” Tyson said.
“A feasibility study has been undertaken and a detailed public report will be presented to council for consideration at the August council meeting. This report will include a recommendation to begin a community engagement process to help determine next steps for the future of the site.”
The council has also dismissed claims of lacking transparency, highlighting ongoing community engagement and regular public updates.
“Council has continued to provide regular updates to the community as information has become available, including regular updates on our website, in our e-newsletter, through the local media and other channels,” Tyson said.
“Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik, along with councillors Alanna Pomeroy and Liz Roberts and council staff, recently attended the community meeting to hear community members’ thoughts, answer questions and clarify information.
“Council remains committed to continuing to keep the community updated regarding the golf course site as more information becomes available.”
