Links Kennedy Bay, regarded as one of Australia’s premier coastal golf experiences, has fully reopened following an 18-hole redesign highlighted by the installation of more than 100 pot bunkers using EcoBunker’s synthetic revetted-face technology.
The ambitious project was led by former Tour professional and noted architect Graham Marsh, working in partnership with Western Australian industry veteran Trevor Strachan. After the original back nine was sold for development, the redesign required a new back nine layout along with a rerouting of holes 5–9—providing a rare opportunity to reimagine the course while strengthening its long-term resilience.
Why EcoBunker Was Selected
A feasibility study conducted by Strachan confirmed EcoBunker’s performance advantages over natural revetting in the region’s demanding environment.
“I was initially apprehensive about synthetic faces in such a natural setting, but the final result is outstanding,” said Adam Strachan of Sports Turf Construction, project manager for the redevelopment. “The bunkers are visually identical to natural revetts and come with a minimum 25-year life expectancy.”
Kennedy Bay’s location exposes the golf course to extreme conditions: hot, dry summers; strong winds—Perth is among the windiest cities in the world—and intense winter rain events totaling up to 600mm annually. These factors historically caused sand blowouts, washouts, and erosion.
“The previous natural revetted bunkers simply couldn’t withstand the elements,” Strachan said. “Over time they became inconsistent and altered the intended challenge. The new design delivers uniformity, durability, and a sharp links aesthetic, all while drastically reducing long-term maintenance needs.”
A New Era for a Links-Inspired Course
Bunker walls now range in height from 60 centimeters to a dramatic 1.8 meters. Installation was completed by Sports Turf Construction with support from EcoBunker’s Australian distributor, Turfcare Australasia. The system adapted to every design scenario across the four-phase project.
“The course draws inspiration from the great links of the world,” Strachan added. “One of our proudest features is our interpretation of the famous ‘Hell Bunker’ at St Andrews’ 14th hole. EcoBunker provided the stability needed to build something both visually compelling and structurally reliable.”
After constructing more than 100 EcoBunkers at Kennedy Bay, Strachan says the technology will be an integral part of his future projects.
To explore how EcoBunker solutions can help address bunker maintenance challenges, visit www.ecobunker.co.uk.
