Growling Frog News
Growling Frog Golf Course and Restaurant... something to really growl about!
22 September 2004
The Growling Frog Golf Course and Restaurant is now open and it's no surprise that a buzz is already spreading about Victoria's newest and most distinctively named public access golf course.
Located just 30 kilometres north of Melbourne in Yan Yean, the Growling Frog Golf Course takes its distinctive name from the indigenous Growling Green Frog that inhabits the area and was protected throughout the development of the course. The recently opened complex combines a beautifully crafted course, the first in Victoria to be designed by golfing legend Graham Marsh, and outstanding facilities.
The 18-hole, par 72 course is set on 280 acres of picturesque, gently undulating land; more than twice the area of many Melbourne courses. It features a purpose-designed driving range, practice putting green, and a green dedicated to chipping, pitching and bunker play.
The 19th hole facilities are also something to see. The clubhouse includes the Spike Bar and Café, a great place to meet with friends and enjoy a snack and refreshments on the balcony, and the Growling Frog Restaurant is ideal for dining and for special functions. And, of course, there is a fully stocked Pro Shop, with merchandise and rental equipment at affordable prices.
"From the first days of this project, the City of Whittlesea has wanted to develop a facility that provides a high standard sporting reserve and facilities, that are affordable and accessible to the whole community and that also protects and highlights the environment. We are extremely happy with the result and are sure that the Whittlesea community will also be proud of this fantastic asset," said Whittlesea Mayor, Cr Lara Carli.
Growling Frog Golf Professional, Mr Wayne Rogers, one of Victoria's most experienced and highly regarded golf professionals, is looking forward to helping establish the Growling Frog as one of the foremost public access golf courses in Australia, and a renowned teaching facility. "With this outstanding golf facility on their doorstep, it is not hard to imagine many local youngsters discovering the joys of golf. Maybe a champion of the future, even the next Adam Scott or Aaron Baddeley, will emerge from the City of Whittlesea," Mr Rogers said.
The Growling Frog Restaurant is a highlight of this new complex and opens for dinner this week (Friday 1 October) . The restaurant offers modern dining in a stunning natural setting. Perched high above the golf course as part of the architect designed clubhouse, the 100-seat restaurant has breathtaking views across the course, with its spectacular River Red Gums and wetlands, to the Great Dividing Range.
And the views are not the only spectacular thing about the Growling Frog Restaurant. Chef Vince Di Pietrantonio describes the cuisine as traditional Mediterranean with a touch of flair. "You may recognise the names on the menu, but you will be impressed with our unique style and interpretation of European classics," he said.
From pancakes and omelettes through to signature meals such as Penne Vodka, Eggplant Tower and Lamb Shank Fettuccine, the Growling Frog has something to tempt everyone's taste buds. The Growling Frog Restaurant uses only the finest ingredients and all meals are plated and presented exquisitely. The pleasant surprise is that this exceptional quality of food and service comes at an affordable price.
Chefs and brothers, Vince and Daniel Di Pietrantonio, have worked together in Melbourne and Singapore, where they established five restaurants and were Food Asia Gold Medallists. The restaurant staff are experienced and friendly, and the attention to detail is obvious, from the freshly roasted coffee to the complimentary bruschetta.
Open from 6.30 am till late, from Wednesday to Saturday, the Growling Frog Restaurant is the ideal venue for an intimate dinner, a family celebration lunch or a formal function.
Special menus are planned to celebrate events such as Christmas and Valentine's Day. Why not book a table for the Melbourne Cup brunch? Enjoy the delicious selection of food and free-flowing wine and champagne, while watching the carnival on the big screen.
Excellent golf, food, wine and vistas – what more could you ask for?
To see for yourself, come along to a Community Day for City of Whittlesea residents on Saturday 23 October. Keep your eye on the newspaper for further details.
If you would like to make a reservation at the Growling Frog Restaurant, call 9716 3728. For lessons or to book in for a round of golf call Wayne Rogers on 9716 3477.
