THE Victorian Open will return to 13th Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads next month, bringing world-class golf back to the region and delivering a major boost for local tourism and business.
The four-day tournament will run from January 15 to January 18 and showcase top talent from around the world in one of Australia’s most distinctive professional golf events.
First held in 1957, the Victorian Open is sanctioned by both the PGA Tour of Australasia and the WPGA Tour of Australasia, and is considered unique for its inclusive format, with both men and women competing on the same courses, at the same time, for equal prize money.
13th Beach Golf Links first hosted the championship in 2013.
Bellarine MP Alison Marchant said the event’s return highlighted the region’s growing reputation as a hub for major events.
“The Bellarine and 13th Beach Golf Links will again host the Victorian Open in 2026, as we proudly continue to back this event through our Regional Events Fund,” she said.
“The Victorian Open not only provides a world-class sporting experience up close but also boosts our local economy and showcases the Bellarine to the world.”
Rob Hurley, general manager of 13th Beach Golf Links, said the club was proud to continue its association with the tournament.
“The Vic Open continues to highlight the spirit of 13th Beach, and we look forward to welcoming players, volunteers and spectators back to 13th Beach for another outstanding week of world-class golf,” he said.
The Victorian Open is backed by the Victorian government’s Regional Events Fund, which supports sporting, cultural and arts events that attract visitors, create jobs and promote regional communities.
The fund has also supported major local events including the Matildas v Chinese Taipei match at Kardinia Park, and BBL Renegades games at GMHBA Stadium.
In the past year, regional events across Victoria have drawn more than one million attendees and generated more than 300,000 hotel night stays.
