Disc golf has officially landed in the northern rivers with Ballina Council putting the finishing touches on the region’s first course at Bicentennial Gardens last week.
While many may not have heard about the sport, those who have can easily become hooked, and best of all it’s free and the whole family can play, said Ballina councillor Jeff Johnson, who took up the cause.
‘Since bringing this idea to council about six months ago I’ve discovered that there are popular disc golf courses in New Zealand, America, Europe and now we have one right here in Ballina,’ said Cr Jeff Johnson.
‘People of all ages have come up to me to say how excited they are to have a course in Ballina’. It’s such a wonderful use of an otherwise neglected and under utilised park. Now, for the cost of a Frisbee, locals and visitors can get active and enjoy a round of Disc Golf in this beautiful park.’
Local disc golfer, Jesse Amos who pitched the idea to Cr Jeff Johnson couldn’t be happier.
‘It’s been an instant success, I’ve received a lot of photos and phone calls from people totally stoked with the new course.’ said Mr Amos.
‘I’d like to thank Cr Jeff Johnson for his support and insight into how this will benefit our community, James Brideson from Ballina Council for prepping the park and seeing the completion of the installation, and Andrew Ferguson from Discgolfpark for designing such a wonderful course.
‘It’s been a pleasure working along side these three gentlemen.’
‘It’s the perfect introductory course for the northern rivers and provides a fun experience for new players while at the same time offering a challenge to more advanced players as well’
Mr Amos is looking for anyone who would like to join the newly formed Northern Rivers Disc Golf Club for regular league days, and is already planning a tournament to showcase Bicentennial Gardens to disc golf players from around Australia and our region.
An open day will be held on Saturday May 28 from 1pm onwards. Discs will be provided as well as some light refreshments. There is no age barrier and everyone is welcome.
If you don’t have your own Frisbee, never fear. There will be some for sale for a reasonable price.
For more information contact Jesse Amos on 0403131268 or visit the Northern Rivers Disc Golf Facebook page.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
