The South Lakes Golf Course has announced the official opening of SHANX Mini Golf, following a significant $1.4 million investment designed to strengthen the Fleurieu Peninsula’s economy and ensure the long-term financial stability of the not-for-profit sporting club.
The addition of SHANX Mini Golf is a community-led project aimed at providing long-term benefits to Goolwa residents, particularly families. South Lakes Golf Club Manager Chris Bailey highlighted the attraction’s broader impact, stating that the new mini golf course will support local hospitality, retail, and tourism jobs.
“It’s more than just a new attraction, it’s a community hub,” Bailey said. “It will bring visitors to Goolwa as it’s fun, it’s social, and it’s another reason to come and enjoy everything South Lakes has to offer.”
Bailey noted that the SHANX model—which combines a quality golfing product with entertainment—is a “perfect fit” for the club’s vision. He stressed the importance of the financial commitment: “This investment is about long-term sustainability for the club, to help support course and clubhouse improvements for years to come.”
A New Standard in Mini Golf
SHANX Mini Golf creates scaled-down golf courses that adhere to the same principles as a traditional course, featuring contoured greens set within a family-friendly environment. Peter Vlahandreas, Managing Director of SHANX Mini Golf, declared the new facility a global standout.
“This is our best yet, without a doubt! SHANX @ South Lakes is the best mini golf course in the world, and it’s right here in South Australia for everyone to enjoy,” Vlahandreas said. He added that the club partnership presents a great opportunity “to welcome more people to South Lakes Golf Club for the first time to play golf.”
The 18-hole South Lakes course is designed to feel like a links course situated within the Goolwa sand dunes. It is engineered to challenge all ages through variety and choice, featuring two distinct pins per hole: the easier ‘Pelican course’ for casual players and the more difficult ‘SHANX course’ for seasoned golfers.
The design avoids novelty obstacles such as windmills or clown mouths, focusing instead on high-quality design, shaping, landscaping, and modern LED lighting, making it playable day and night. The facility also includes a winner’s podium and family-friendly areas for photos.
Operations and Accessibility
With a direct connection to the clubhouse, the course provides convenience for patrons wanting to eat or drink during their game. SHANX @ South Lakes is open seven days a week during summer, welcoming casual players, those hosting birthday parties, corporate events, and school groups.
The course is located at the South Lakes Golf Course (Billabong Road, Goolwa South).
Summer Opening Hours (Seven Days):
Wednesday to Saturday: 8 am to 9 pm (Last Tee Time 8 pm)
Sunday to Tuesday: 8 am to 7 pm (Last Tee Time 6 pm)
Tickets start from $19 per round, with children six and under playing free. Group bookings and event packages are also available.
SHANX @ South Lakes marks the third South Australian location and sixth nationally for SHANX, the only turnkey mini golf course company in the Southern Hemisphere.
