Sam Bennett

Melbourne's sandbelt is famed for its flattering topography, where a large number of courses have taken advantage of its soil. Located in the now suburban south-eastern suburbs, this area was originally sparse and perfect for courses.

Sam Bennett was an instrumental figure in the pioneering days of this golfing stronghold. Sam Bennett was a large figure in the establishment of the Waverley Golf Club in 1914, drawing up its initial plans. With the outbreak of the First World War came a large interruption to many avenues of Australian life, including the early golfing scene. Bennett moved on to become the club professional at the nearby Woodlands Golf Club. In 1917, the club looked to expand from 9 to 18 holes. Bennett laid out the additional holes within a month. When the war concluded, he help regain the sport's popularity. Returning to his first club, now renamed the Commonwealth Golf Club, he was named the club's professional. He was then tasked with designing an 18-hole course on an expanded site. After drawing the initial plans, the holes were fine-tuned by Harry Colt and Charles Lane

Image: Commonwealth Golf Club

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