The Cliffs Kangaroo Island Golf Course Set for 2026 Opening Despite Investor Shift
Despite a major investor stepping back, the much-anticipated The Cliffs Kangaroo Island golf course remains on track, reinforcing its position as a premier tourism and sporting attraction set to redefine high-end destination golf in Australia.
While property magnate Ross Pelligra has exited his $20 million commitment to the project, The Cliffs CEO Sam Atkins has confirmed that new investors have stepped in to ensure the course’s successful completion. This demonstrates the resilience and attractiveness of the development, which will bring world-class golfing to Kangaroo Island and boost the local economy.
Construction began in late 2022, and despite the transition in financial backing, the project remains well-funded. The ambitious vision includes an 18-hole links-style course designed by acclaimed golf architect Darius Oliver, the creative force behind the highly-ranked Cape Wickham Golf Links in Tasmania. The course sits atop 240 hectares of stunning cliffside land overlooking the Southern Ocean, promising an unparalleled playing experience.
Slated for a preview play launch in January 2026, the course will offer limited early access before its official Easter 2026 opening, which will also unveil a clubhouse featuring a pro shop, restaurant, bar, and event spaces. Long-term plans include premium tourist accommodation, reinforcing Kangaroo Island as a must-visit destination for golfers and travellers alike.
Despite Pelligra’s exit, the development is benefiting from a strengthened investor group and well-structured financing. Renown Lending is particularly passionate about these kinds of investments—where vision, tourism, and high-end property development come together to create lasting economic impact. As a non-bank lender, Renown Lending understands the value of strategic property-backed funding, ensuring that transformational projects like this continue to thrive.
Kangaroo Island is well-positioned to attract the global golfing community, particularly as “destination golf” continues to grow in popularity. As Mr Atkins pointed out, the model has proven successful worldwide, much like high-end skiing, where enthusiasts travel great distances for an elite experience. The increased flight capacity to Kingscote and new SeaLink ferries arriving in May further enhance the island’s accessibility, ensuring that The Cliffs will be a major draw for high-net-worth tourists.
The project also leads with sustainability, having already removed over 1000 noxious plants, planted 2500 native trees and plants, and set a goal to plant 10,000 more over the next five years. This commitment to environmental responsibility aligns perfectly with Renown Lending’s support for sustainable and forward-thinking developments.
Despite the shift in investors, the The Cliffs Kangaroo Island golf course remains a beacon of confidence for the region, proving that strong financial structuring, investor resilience, and strategic lending partnerships—like those offered by Renown Lending—can turn ambitious visions into reality.
