Figure 1: Fairways and Farewells — Can Golf and Memory Coexist?

Abstract

Sydney faces a dual challenge. Acute burial-land shortages have prompted the NSW Government to convert the Crown-owned Carnarvon Golf Course into a memorial park with grave infrastructure.. The plan seeks 70,000 burial plots while removing a long-time sporting and social hub in Lidcombe. Meanwhile, shrinking multi-generational recreation spaces raise strong community opposition. Residents fear losing a public place vital for social ties, well-being, and local identity.

This conflict shows a wider urban issue: cities must meet urgent infrastructure needs while protecting civic, recreational, and cultural heritage. This study explores using Carnarvon Golf Course as a hybrid memorial–golf landscape. The concept blends recreation, remembrance, ecological repair, and financial stability into one vision.

International examples—Hiawatha Golf Course in Minneapolis, Park Hill in Denver, and RedGate in Maryland—illustrate adaptive design and inclusive governance. These cases show how phased improvements can turn underused green spaces into thriving urban commons. By valuing dignity, cultural continuity, and community input, the Carnarvon model offers a practical framework for memorial planning in stressed cities.

1. Introduction

In August 2025, the NSW Government announced plans to turn the Crown-owned Carnarvon Golf Course into a memorial park (ABC News, 2025; ABJ, 2025). This popular sporting and social hub in Lidcombe would provide 70,000 burial plots. The plan addresses urgent need: Rookwood Cemetery will reach capacity by 2027, with some faith groups facing earlier deadlines (ABJ, 2025).

Local residents and leaders, including Auburn MP Lynda Voltz, strongly opposed the proposal. They called it “lazy and short-sighted” and accused the government of ignoring community views (ABC News, 2025). A petition quickly gained thousands of signatures. Cumberland Council warned that once open space disappears, it cannot be replaced (Daily Telegraph, 2025c).

This conflict highlights a broader debate about land use in memorial parks. The main challenge is balancing urgent burial needs with protecting civic and environmental values. Demand for burial space keeps rising while green areas shrink and communities voice competing priorities (ABJ, 2025). Yet Carnarvon Memorial Park need not choose between recreation and remembrance. Instead, it offers a chance to test new urban planning models. The real question is not whether both needs can coexist but how to unite them through design and shared governance.

2. Literature Review: Golf Course Repurposing and Multifunctionality

Research on converting golf courses into multifunctional landscapes is limited, especially regarding funding and governance. For example, Cederberg (2017) noted that most studies examine design or ecology but rarely explore financial models or stakeholder negotiations. Nevertheless, evidence shows that closing golf courses and converting them into parks or open spaces creates clear benefits. These benefits include improved ecosystems, new recreation opportunities, and stronger stormwater management (Cederberg, 2017).

Golf Courses as Open Spaces for Ecosystem Services

Similarly, golf courses share many traits with natural preserves. They support biodiversity, provide green infrastructure, and enhance social well-being. Studies show they create wildlife corridors, improve water management, and support community health (Irwin, 2002; Brander & Koetse, 2011; Chiesura, 2002). Moreover, while much literature highlights turf and maintenance, reoriented courses can deliver major ecological value.

Multifunctional Value of Golf Lands

The Scandinavian Turfgrass and Environment Research Foundation (STERF) introduced the idea of multifunctional golf courses. In particular, Nordic and Dutch cases show courses serving broader social, ecological, and economic roles (Strandberg et al., 2011). They foster biodiversity, improve climate resilience, and expand public recreation and education. Additionally, multifunctionality can help finances by diversifying income, building partnerships, and strengthening political support.

Adaptive Reuse and Landscape Resilience

Landscape architects view golf courses as ready-made networks of green corridors and outdoor “rooms,” ideal for public-space repurposing. For instance, in Indianapolis, urban designers proposed converting fairways into parks that keep visual order while adding varied recreation (Mortice, 2020). Likewise, broader design thinking calls for multifunctional reuse—balancing heritage, recreation, public space, and ecology (Urbandesignlab, 2024).

Placemaking and Creative Redevelopment

Some proposals imagine golf courses as mixed-use precincts. Notably, architect Galina Tachieva’s Sprawl Repair model shows how defunct courses could transform into neighbourhood centres with schools, libraries, and parks. These designs encourage walkability and strengthen community life. However, market pressures may limit scale, yet such models inspire powerful alternatives.

Community Activation and Interim Uses

Not all reuse needs long-term redevelopment. Indeed, short-term or small-scale changes can succeed. In Glasgow, a closed course became community farmland. This provided food security, built social ties, and boosted biodiversity with minimal investment (Glasgow Community Food Network, 2023).

Table 1: Key Themes and Insights on Golf Course Repurposing.

Theme	Key Insights
Limited literature	Most studies focus on design or ecology. Few explore funding models or governance.
Ecosystem services and public benefits	Golf courses can support biodiversity, manage water, and provide green infrastructure.
Multifunctionality (STERF research)	Courses can deliver economic, social, ecological, and cultural benefits.
Adaptive reuse potential	Existing golf landscapes can be reshaped for parks, ecology, and public recreation.
Placemaking transformations	Defunct courses can become mixed-use centres with housing, schools, and walkable amenities.
Interim community activation	Closed courses can quickly host urban farms, markets, or community projects.

3. Methods: Case Study Approach

This study uses a qualitative case-study method to explore how golf courses can become hybrid landscapes. These landscapes integrate recreation, ecology, and memorial functions. The proposed Carnarvon Golf Course transformation is evaluated using Australian and international precedents. This approach helps capture varied redevelopment strategies and lessons.

Case Study Selection

Ten sites were chosen for their different approaches to golf-course transformation.
They illustrate ecological restoration, governance leadership, housing–park hybrids, and community-driven planning:

Hiawatha Golf Course (Minneapolis, USA): Ecological resilience and flood-adapted design.
Park Hill Golf Course (Denver, USA): Large-scale, governance-led redevelopment with staged public access.
RedGate Golf Course (Rockville, Maryland, USA): Passive conversion to a public arboretum and biodiversity park.
Suburban Virginia Golf Course Redevelopment (USA): Mixed-use adaptive reuse supported by AI-driven planning.
Meadowbrook Country Club (Kansas, USA): Integration of housing, senior living, and urban parkland.
Newcastle Golf Club (New South Wales, Australia): Residential integration with healthcare and recreation facilities.
Cranbourne Golf Course (Victoria, Australia): State-led redevelopment blending medium-density housing with green infrastructure.
Foothills Golf Club (Boulder, Colorado, USA): Expanded from 9- to 18-hole course while retaining community play.
Cumberland Country Golf Club (Greystanes, NSW, Australia): Phased redevelopment adding retirement living, care facilities, and housing while keeping open space.
Reading Golf Club (Berkshire, UK): Community-driven planning; strong local resistance stopped a proposed housing scheme.

Data Sources

Primary data include online planning documents, municipal reports, and project masterplans. In addition, secondary sources include peer-reviewed articles and reputable news outlets (Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, 2025; Denver City Council, 2025; Rockville City, 2025).

Analytical Approach

Comparative analysis of these ten cases identifies strategies transferable to Carnarvon Memorial Park. Specifically, lessons focus on design adaptability, ecological integration, financial viability, and community engagement. Therefore, these insights form the conceptual framework for a sustainable hybrid memorial landscape.

4. Results and Analysis: Golf Course Mixed-Use Redevelopment – Australian and International Case Studies

Urban golf course redevelopments now serve as laboratories for adaptive urbanism.This approach helps cities create multifunctional spaces balancing ecology, community needs, and financial sustainability.

Suburban Virginia Golf Course Redevelopment

A 168-acre Virginia course is repurposed using AI-driven planning tools. Digital scenario testing models housing demand, ecological impacts, and project costs (Cove Inc., 2025).
Lesson for Carnarvon: Technology can guide decisions and balance ecology, finances, and burial infrastructure.

Meadowbrook Country Club, Kansas (USA)

One-third of Meadowbrook’s 136 acres became a mixed-use neighborhood; the rest remains urban parkland. The project adds senior housing, townhomes, apartments, trails, and playgrounds (Smart Cities Dive, 2025).
Lesson for Carnarvon: Memorial landscapes can stay commemorative while supporting active community uses.

Newcastle Golf Club, Australia

New duplexes and apartments were built beside the existing course with healthcare and recreation services. A public–private partnership ensured financial stability and community benefit (Newcastle Golf Club, 2025).
Lesson for Carnarvon: Memorial spaces can combine housing and wellness services.

Cranbourne Golf Course, Victoria (Australia)

Cranbourne will become a 1,300-unit housing precinct in Melbourne’s growth corridor. The plan blends medium-density housing, green infrastructure, parks, and bike paths (Victorian Planning Authority, 2024).
Lesson for Carnarvon: Government policy can drive redevelopment while addressing housing needs.

Foothills Golf Club, Boulder, Colorado (USA)

The original 9-hole Boulder Creek Golf Club was transformed into the Foothills Golf Club, creating a new 18-hole championship course while retaining the original layout for continued play.
Lesson for Carnarvon: Existing golf infrastructure can be expanded without losing recreation, allowing phased memorial transformations.

Cumberland Country Golf Club, Greystanes (NSW, Australia)

Cumberland is adding retirement living and a care facility, plus proposed housing. The plan keeps community access and recreational infrastructure.
Lesson for Carnarvon: Phased mixed-use adaptation can preserve recreation and open space.

Hiawatha Golf Course, Minneapolis (USA)

Hiawatha reduced from 18 to nine holes to address flooding. Wetlands, stormwater systems, and cultural features were added (Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, 2025). Seasonal programs keep the site active year-round.
Lesson for Carnarvon: This case shows ecological resilience with cultural heritage, vital for hybrid memorial landscapes.

Figure 2: Hiawatha Downsized for Flood Resilience — Could Carnarvon Be Reimagined to Balance Golf and Memorial Space?

Reading Golf Club, Berkshire (UK)

Reading proposed reducing 18 holes to nine and adding 260 homes, a school, and healthcare facilities (Pegasus Group, 2022). Community opposition citing heritage and open-space values scaled the plan to 70 homes and finally stopped it.
Lesson for Carnarvon: Redevelopment can face strong social and historical resistance, requiring inclusive consultation.

Park Hill Golf Course, Denver (USA)

Denver secured Park Hill as a 155-acre public park through a land-swap deal. Interim trails, disc golf, and dog parks kept residents engaged (Axios, 2025; Denverite, 2025).
Lesson for Carnarvon: Staged activation builds trust and maintains interest during long projects.

RedGate Golf Course, Rockville, Maryland (USA)

Figure 3: RedGate Golf Course — Phased Transformation into a Community Arboretum Guided by Public Input and Habitat Preservation.

Closed in 2018, RedGate became a 130-acre arboretum and passive park focused on biodiversity and quiet reflection. Community input guided the transformation (Rockville City, 2025).
Lesson for Carnarvon: Underused golf land can become a sanctuary for nature and remembrance.

Table 1: International Golf Course Redevelopment Case Studies and Lessons for Carnarvon

Case Study	Transformation Strategy	Lessons for Carnarvon
Hiawatha Golf Course (Minneapolis, USA)	Reduced from 18 to 9 holes; added wetlands and stormwater systems; preserved heritage features; added year-round programs	Combines ecology and culture. Moreover, phased design and seasonal events keep the site active for memorial use.
Park Hill Golf Course (Denver, USA)	Land-swap created a 155-acre public park; added interim uses like trails, disc golf, and dog parks	Staged activation builds trust. In addition, phased actions keep the community engaged during long projects.
RedGate Golf Course (Rockville, Maryland, USA)	Closed and converted to a 130-acre arboretum and passive park with community input	Shows underused land can become a quiet sanctuary. Therefore, ecological restoration supports memorial potential.
Suburban Virginia Golf Course Redevelopment (USA)	AI-driven planning integrates housing, retail, and civic spaces; scenario testing models ecology and finances	Technology guides planning. Moreover, it balances burial infrastructure, ecology, and financial feasibility.
Meadowbrook Country Club (Kansas, USA)	One-third became a mixed-use neighborhood; the rest stayed a large urban park with housing and trails	Demonstrates that memorial spaces can stay active. In addition, it mixes housing with green recreation.
Newcastle Golf Club (New South Wales, Australia)	Built duplexes and apartments with healthcare and recreation services through a public–private partnership	Combines memorial, housing, and wellness uses. Therefore, it supports both financial and community value.
Cranbourne Golf Course (Victoria, Australia)	State-led plan for 1,300 medium-density homes; added green infrastructure, parks, and bike paths	Government policy can guide redevelopment. Moreover, it protects open space and ecological values.
Foothills Golf Club (Boulder, Colorado, USA)	Expanded from 9 to 18 holes while keeping the original layout	Existing golf infrastructure can adapt. Therefore, phased memorial–recreation projects remain possible.
Cumberland Country Golf Club (Greystanes, NSW, Australia)	Added retirement living and care facility; proposed partial housing; kept recreation access	Phased redevelopment adds new uses. In addition, it preserves open space and community recreation.
Reading Golf Club (Berkshire, UK)	Proposed cut to 9 holes for housing, school, and healthcare; scaled back to 70 homes; finally rejected	Highlights social and heritage resistance. Therefore, inclusive consultation and cultural sensitivity are essential.

5. Discussion: Lessons from Ten International Cases for Carnarvon

The ten international and Australian cases show that golf-course transformation tests governance, culture, ecology, and finance.Therefore, these projects reveal strategies directly relevant to the proposed Carnarvon Memorial Park.

Adaptive Reuse and Environmental Gains

Adaptive reuse offers clear advantages. For example, projects cost less, finish faster, and reuse infrastructure while improving the environment (The JDI Group, 2023). Moreover, closing or repurposing courses protects green areas that support stormwater control, wildlife corridors, and recreation (Cederberg, 2017; Taking Golf Out of Golf Course, 2017). Carnarvon’s fairways could therefore become memorial gardens, biodiversity corridors, and civic open space (Elmqvist et al., 2019). This approach helps transform a declining single-use site into a multifunctional place with ecological, social, and financial value.

Integrating Burial and Recreation

Several cases show that burial and recreation can coexist. For example, flush lawn burials allow easy turf care and lower costs (Cederberg, 2017). In addition, discreet memorial features—ground plaques, GIS locators, and reflective ponds—add symbolic and ecological value (Ahern, 2011). Similarly, memorial groves of native species, as at RedGate Park, strengthen biodiversity (City of Rockville, 2020). Pathway zoning for golfers, mourners, and visitors also improves safety and respect (Informed Infrastructure, 2024). Specifically, Hiawatha’s blend of heritage and ecology proves that such dual programming can succeed (Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board, 2021).

Ecological and Recreational Adaptation

Hiawatha and RedGate demonstrate that downsizing or closing courses can create wetlands, arboreta, and biodiversity corridors. Therefore, these projects combine reflective memorial areas with active recreation. Foothills in Boulder shows that golf facilities can even expand while keeping play. This approach helps memorial and recreational uses grow together rather than compete.

Governance, Community Engagement, and Trust

Successful transitions need transparent processes and staged activation. For example, Park Hill in Denver gained legitimacy with interim trails and disc golf before redevelopment. In contrast, Reading in the UK faced heritage-based resistance and saw its housing plan scaled back and withdrawn.
These contrasts show that Carnarvon’s transformation will test governance and cultural legitimacy as much as design. Therefore, early and inclusive consultation with residents, faith groups, and Indigenous communities is critical (Kong, 2012). In addition, early media reports already show local scepticism (Daily Telegraph, 2023; ABC News, 2023). Hamburg’s Ohlsdorf Cemetery further proves that inclusive governance can balance many functions while preserving sacred character (Elmqvist et al., 2019).

Mixed-Use Development and Financial Sustainability

International and Australian redevelopments reveal that mixed land use can stabilise finances while keeping public open space. For example, projects in Virginia, Meadowbrook, Newcastle, Cranbourne, and Cumberland generate revenue and community benefits. Meanwhile, Hiawatha, Foothills, Park Hill, and RedGate show that phased adaptation and ecological integration increase financial viability. Therefore, Reading highlights the need to align mixed-use plans with heritage and community values. Key lessons include phased development, ecological restoration, diversified revenue, and cost-efficient reuse of infrastructure.

Cultural Value and Social Equity

Protecting heritage strengthens identity and builds acceptance. For example, Hiawatha preserved the Solomon Hughes Sr. Clubhouse. In addition, Meadowbrook and Newcastle offer wellness housing for older adults. These steps enhance social fairness and trust.

Implementation Insights

Across all ten cases, key principles emerge:

Phased implementation maintains continuity and reduces opposition.
Ecological integration with wetlands, wooded buffers, and biodiversity plantings boosts climate resilience.
Financial diversity—mixing memorial, housing, recreation, and event spaces—supports long-term upkeep.
Inclusive governance with broad consultation ensures legitimacy.
Cultural sensitivity protects historic structures and memorial elements.
Scenario planning using AI or GIS, as in Virginia, tests ecological and financial outcomes.
Potential over certainty—many projects remain proposals or partial builds—illustrates possibilities rather than guaranteed templates.

Toward Adaptive Memorial Urbanism

Together, these findings show that Carnarvon needs adaptive memorial urbanism. This approach helps balance burial demand with recreation and ecological restoration. A phased strategy lets land use respond to demographic and cultural change. Therefore, hybrid landscapes can attract golfers, mourners, environmental stewards, and tourists, improving cultural acceptance and financial stability (Elmqvist et al., 2019). Carnarvon’s challenge is not choosing between golf and graves. Instead, careful design, inclusive governance, and diversified funding can create a resilient, just, and adaptable memorial landscape.

Figure 4: Carnarvon Hybridisation – Innovation or Trivialisation? Mixed reactions reveal the tension between creative reuse and the solemnity of memorial spaces.

6. Conclusion: Toward a Hybrid Memorial Landscape

The Carnarvon proposal shows golf and burial uses can coexist through ecological design, inclusive governance, and diverse funding. International examples—such as Hiawatha’s flood-resilient wetlands and Meadowbrook’s housing–park hybrid—prove large recreational sites can evolve into resilient memorial commons.

Key Implications for Carnarvon

Spatial Flexibility: Existing fairways, ponds, and wooded buffers can host memorial gardens and native groves without disrupting recreation.
Cultural Legitimacy: Engagement with faith groups, Indigenous communities, and local residents ensures diverse burial practices and social trust.
Financial Sustainability: Revenue can diversify through memorial leasing, wellness facilities, ecological services, and cultural programs.
Governance Innovation: Partnerships between GMCT, local councils, and community groups can balance land uses and ensure stewardship.

Therefore, Carnarvon need not choose between golf or graves. It can become a multifunctional urban common where memorial rituals, ecological restoration, and recreation reinforce each other. In addition, adaptive memorial urbanism helps the site respond to demographic change, climate pressures, and cultural needs while protecting social and environmental value for future generations.

Closing Thoughts

Carnarvon demonstrates that memory and recreation can coexist. Shared spaces can honor life while supporting legacy. Moreover, by combining dignity, ecology, and recreation, urban landscapes can thrive as multifunctional commons. This approach is more than planning—it reinvests in urban communities. Your input, experience, and vision remain vital.

🌿 Help Shape the Future of Hybrid Memorial Spaces
💬 Join the Conversation: Share your insights, ideas, or suggestions.
🌱 Question: What priorities should guide the design of a hybrid memorial–golf landscape in Sydney?

7. References

News and Media Coverage – Local Reporting

For example, 9News / NewsTeam (2025, February 9) reports Carnarvon Golf Course is considered a cemetery site, says MP Lynda Voltz.
Similarly, ABC News (2023) covers Community divided over plans to redevelop Carnarvon Golf Course. https://www.abc.net.au
In addition, ABC News (2025, August 18) reports Plan to convert Sydney golf course into cemetery ‘short-sighted’ as community consultation starts.
Moreover, Australian Golf Digest (2025, August 19) highlights MP slams plan to convert Sydney golf course into cemetery as community consultation starts.
Also, Daily Telegraph (2023) discusses Backlash over proposed memorial park on Sydney golf course. https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au
Furthermore, Daily Telegraph (2025a, August 18) adds Revealed: Sydney golf course pegged to become 70,000-plot cemetery.
Similarly, Daily Telegraph (2025b, August [n.d.]) covers New cemetery plans spark fury as council fights to save Lidcombe golf course.
In addition, Daily Telegraph (2025c, [n.d.]) notes ‘Betrayal of public trust’: Labour MP breaks ranks on golf plan.
Moreover, Newsmoco (2025) reports Controversy erupts over Sydney golf course cemetery proposal.
Also, Oz Arab Media (2025, July 31) adds Community rally to save Carnarvon Golf Course and Coleman Park.
Finally, SMH / Urban Development News (2025, January) highlights Sydney golf course averted from cemetery conversion.

News and Media Coverage – International Reporting

Similarly, Axios (2025) reports Denver acquires Park Hill Golf Course in land swap. https://www.axios.com/local/denver
In addition, Denverite (2025) covers Park Hill Golf Course to become Denver’s fourth largest park. https://denverite.com

Golf and Residential Development Reports

Moreover, Boulder Hills Development (2022) describes Master-planned golf and residential community. https://www.boulderhills.com
In addition, Cerulean PPL (2024) presents Boulder Hills mixed-use masterplan. https://www.ceruleanppl.com
Similarly, Cove Inc. (2025) details Smart redevelopment of suburban Virginia golf course.
Also, Smart Cities Dive (2025) reports Kansas golf course redevelopment creates housing and parkland. https://www.smartcitiesdive.com

Case Study Planning and Consultation Documents

Furthermore, Denver City Council (2025) outlines Park Hill Open Space: Land swap and master plan. https://www.denvergov.org
Similarly, Pegasus Group (2022) provides Reading Golf Club redevelopment plan. https://www.pegasusgroup.co.uk
In addition, Reading Borough Council (2021) reports Reading Golf Club redevelopment consultation. https://www.reading.gov.uk
Also, Rockville City (2025) presents RedGate Park and Arboretum: Master plan. https://www.rockvillemd.gov

Australian Golf Course Case Studies

Moreover, Carnarvon Golf Club (2025, January 27) details Carnarvon Golf Course in the media.
Similarly, Newcastle Golf Club (2025) covers Residential integration strategy.
In addition, Victorian Planning Authority (2024) presents Cranbourne Golf Course redevelopment framework plan. https://vpa.vic.gov.au

Academic and Professional Literature

Furthermore, Cederberg, C. (2017) discusses Repurposing golf courses for community and ecological benefit. Journal of Urban Design, 22(3), 401–418. https://doi.org/10.1080/13574809.2017.1286195
Similarly, Cederberg, J. (2017) highlights Golf course redevelopment: Balancing recreation, housing, and open space. Urban Land, 76(3), 45–52.
In addition, Elmqvist, T., Andersson, E., Frantzeskaki, N., McPhearson, T., Olsson, P., Gaffney, O., … Folke, C. (2019) present Sustainability and resilience for transformation in the urban century. Nature Sustainability, 2(4), 267–273. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-019-0250-1
Moreover, Glasgow Community Food Network (2023, October) provides Introduction to Ruchill. https://glasgowfood.net/news/2023/10/introduction-to-ruchill
Similarly, Informed Infrastructure (2024) presents Adaptive reuse in landscape infrastructure: Opportunities and challenges. https://informedinfrastructure.com
In addition, Kong, L. (2012) analyses No place, new places: Death and its rituals in urban Asia. Urban Studies, 49(2), 415–433. https://doi.org/10.1177/0042098011402238
Furthermore, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (2021) shares Hiawatha Golf Course area master plan. https://www.minneapolisparks.org
Similarly, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board (2025, August 14) highlights New designs detail potential improvements to Hiawatha Golf Course and surrounding parkland.
In addition, STERF (2011) introduces Multifunctional golf courses – An underutilised resource.
Also, Taking golf out of golf course (2017, April) covers Planning, 83(4), 10–12.
Moreover, The JDI Group (2023) explains Adaptive reuse in recreational landscapes: Cost savings and sustainability. https://www.thejdigroup.com
Similarly, Urbandesignlab (2024) shares Case studies for adaptive reuse in urban design.

Carnarvon Golf Club or Memorial Park: Should Sydney Sacrifice a Beloved Course for 70,000 Burial Plots?

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