Mount Gambier residents are a swing closer to playing mini golf as work continues on the Blue Lake Golf Club’s 18-hole mini golf course.

The course will include the region’s famous attractions such as the Blue Lake, Centenary Tower and Mount Schank.

This latest entertainment activity is made possible from a grant through the Community Development Program Regions round 5.

Construction started in March but despite the grant stipulating they have until June 2023, Blue Lake Golf Course secretary Stephen Smith is hoping for it to be completed on December 1 this year. Mr Smith said a focus on sourcing local materials was made where possible.

“We want to get schools involved to give the kids in town ownership of the course,” he said.

“All the rock retaining walls are in, preparation is being done for all the holes and the next steps will be to put the form work in, put more rocks in and pour the concrete.

“We have a huge number of local sponsors and we are hoping to come in well under the $400,000 budget, in fact I am hoping to halve it.

“It will have lighting so it will be open extended hours during winter and summer.”

Mr Smith said the new course was the next step in securing the future of the golf club.

“You cannot survive on just a golf course anymore,” he said.

“We are aiming it primarily at families, but it will cater to all ages.

“The first six holes of the course are suitable to ambulant people such as those with walking frames.

“We’re just doing it for the community and it helps sustain the golf course which is a community asset.”