Greg Norman Backs Ambitious Tasmanian Golf Course and Water Recycling Project

Hobart, Tasmania – Golfing legend Greg Norman has visited Hobart to assess a proposed golf course development at South Arm, Tasmania, which is intrinsically linked to a significant water recycling infrastructure project. The visit comes as developer Justin Hetrel seeks a high-profile investor for the ambitious undertaking.

A Unique Blend of Golf and Water Infrastructure

Hetrel has spent 14 years and $30 million developing an A-class water recycling scheme at South Arm. Pulse Tasmania reports that the system pipes treated wastewater 7 kilometers under the Derwent River from Blackmans Bay to irrigate farmland that has experienced drought conditions since 1975. The proposed golf course is envisioned as the primary user of this recycled water, but Hetrel emphasizes the broader benefits.

“We’re not just about a golf course. We’re about water, which is life,” Hetrel stated to Pulse. He explained that the project aims to deliver irrigation to over 41 farms across South Arm, Sanford, Cremorne, and Clifton Beach.

Norman’s Endorsement and Investment Discussions

Hetrel initially pitched the project to Norman at Crown Casino in Melbourne weeks prior to the site visit. Norman toured the proposed site via helicopter after arriving in Hobart by private jet. He reportedly expressed enthusiasm, particularly regarding the innovative water infrastructure. Pulse Tasmania quoted Hetrel as saying, “The shark loves the ocean – that was his backyard I showed him yesterday.”

Following the site tour, Norman met with Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff and Treasurer Eric Abetz to discuss potential investment opportunities in the state. Rockliff described the meeting as a chance to showcase Tasmania’s investment potential and promote its tourism offerings. Pulse Tasmania reported Rockliff stating, “Tasmania is entering a new era of opportunity and we are sustainably growing our tourism industry by promoting Tasmania to the world.”

Challenges and Approvals

Despite the progress, the project faces hurdles. Hetrel’s company, Mary Ann’s Island Pty Ltd, is currently working to reinstate a development permit that lapsed in 2022. The 120-hectare site contains Aboriginal middens, leading to concerns from Aboriginal Heritage Tasmania. The Tasmanian Conservation Trust (TCT) has also filed an appeal against a Supreme Court ruling that initially cleared the way for the development, citing potential environmental impacts, including threats to the critically endangered spotted handfish in the nearby Opossum Bay Marine Conservation Area. Pulse Tasmania reports the TCT is seeking $50,000 to fund their appeal.

Hetrel remains optimistic, aiming to resolve the approvals process within eight weeks and hopes to begin construction as early as June 1, with a projected course opening within ten months, pending approvals. He confirmed that Norman is being considered as a financial backer, stating, “We are looking to get Greg investing in the state.”