Our story begins in 1906…

In 1906, arrangements were made with the McLeans of Strathconan to play on their front country, beginning below the cemetery.

A nine-hole course was laid out about the Main Road. After a few seasons, owing to this course being needed for agricultural purposes, the club had to move across the road to Gilingham’s property at Canfield.

In 1933 the club moved to the showgrounds and Strathconan Park at a rental of 40 pounds for the winter playing season, using the bowling pavilion in the bowlers off season.

In 1957 under the direction of Mr. A Herlund, the golfers built their own pavilion on the showgrounds. On 20 January 1961, it was agreed to increase subscriptions and open a fund to purchase land for a golf course. It was further agreed on 14 October 1964 to purchase 90 acres, 3 roods, 16.5 perches for $200 per acre – date of possession 1 February 1965.

It was decided to finance the purchase of the land by accepting Mrs W M Perry’s offer of leaving $6,000 at 5% interest for seven years on the property, the balance of the money to be raised from club members by selling them debentures of $20 each at 5% interest.

This proved most satisfactory and members decided to farm the property for several years. On 16 January 1967, the Golf Club pavilion on the showgrounds was sold to the A&P Society for $1,200.

The first season’s golf was played in 1969 on the course, only in Winter. In the Spring the ground was then cut for hay and fescue – net returns of $1,515.69. The net returns from farming over five years were $21,492.55. During the Autumn of 1968, the whole area was reticulated and water was laid onto all greens and tees for approximately $1,000.

The Building Committee started work on the pavilion in 1967 and was finished in 1969. Glencairn was the original name given to this farm in 1874 by John Mackenzie.

It was occupied by his descendants until sold to the Golf Club. The Glencairn course was opened for play on 8 March 1969 by Mr S F Martin, President of the Mid-South Canterbury Golf Association.

These days…

Today, Fairlie Golf Club is focused on providing a fantastic golf hub for our valued members and visitors alike. Our members and committees are focused on providing healthy lifestyle, sporting, skill-learning, and social opportunities through our golf community.

We aspire to be the friendliest golf club in the region and offer a wide range of opportunities to be involved - no matter your age, ability, or skill level. Everyone is welcome.

In 2022, our club has been focused on a wide range of projects to continue our growth in the community. These include sponsorship, course, capital, social and fundraising, repairs and maintenance, match, administration, and bar projects. Read about our projects in our annual plan.