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GOLF TEACHING PRO%u00ae 42 WINTER 2O26September marks the start of spring in Australia, and for golfers in Melbourne, it couldn%u2019t come soon enough. After a long, cold, and wet winter, the city%u2019s fairways are ready to welcome players back to warmer conditions %u2013 conditions we%u2019ll enjoy for the next six months before winter rolls around again.By Craig Roberts, USGTF Master Golf Teaching ProfessionalNEWS FROM AUSTRALIAOver the past year, Australia has seen a noticeable surge in indoor golf facilities. Many of these new venues are stand-alone operations, boasting state-of-the-art launch monitor technology, and are not connected to major golf retailers or courses. While the growth is exciting, it raises the question: in Australia%u2019s relatively small market %u2013 already rich in traditional golf courses %u2013 can all these facilities remain profitable in the long term? Outdoor driving ranges have responded to this with many ranges installing ball tracking systems to give customers the best of both worlds.To show just how much indoor golf has grown in the past year, Golf NSW (New South Wales) have also announced the %u201cNSW Virtual Open,%u201c Australia%u2019s first statebacked simulator tournament. The tournament invites affiliated industry members and golf clubs equipped with simulator facilities to host qualifiers during August and September, culminating in a final in October.At the Chinese-owned indoor range where I coach, membership has grown to over 400, with plenty of casual visitors. Business is strong, but with the venue approaching its second anniversary, keeping technology up to date will be key to staying competitive.Rory McIlroy Returns to Royal MelbourneIn exciting news for Australian golf, five-time major champion, career grand slam winner, and 2013 Australian Open champion Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will return to contest the 2025 Australian Open at Royal Melbourne Golf Club. Adam Scott has also announced his participation, ensuring strong local and international interest.Founded in 1891, Royal Melbourne is widely regarded as one of Australia%u2019s premier clubs, home to two of the finest courses in the world. For the Open, the club will use its famed %u201cComposite Course%u201d %u2013 a championship layout combining 12 holes from the West Course and six from the East. The tournament was played December 4-7, 2025 (results not available at press time).STORIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD AUSTRALIA