For the past ten years, three to four times a week, longtime friends and Valley View locals Tony Farnsworth and John Lawrence have set up for a day on the greens with two bags, their electric push buggies and eighteen holes at the lush Valley View Par 3 Golf Course. 

What started as a chance meeting through mutual mates on the course has quickly grown into a decade-long stint as regular playing partners. The two are always among the first to arrive and keen to get out for a round while they engage in footy banter with the team and community. 

With loneliness now considered a key social, health and economic issue of our time, (Ending Loneliness Together reports that 1 in 3 Australians feel lonely), the course has helped the two stay not only active, but also socially connected.

The Par 3 layout at Valley View is perfect for their routine, which improves their fitness and clears their minds. The course provides an accessible and social format which can be played in just over an hour, with a few challenging holes to keep things interesting. 

Zac Packard, Venue Manager at Valley View Golf Course commented: 

“John and Tony often help to set up the outdoor area (even when told not to!) and love sharing banter while they play the course.” 

The Valley View team members say the pair have become fixtures at the venue and that their games are a pleasure to watch. 

“The two are part of the community here at Valley View. All of the team have come to love their friendship and humour; everyone knows them,” continued Zac. 

“John’s footy banter, especially his love for the Adelaide Crows, keeps us all laughing, especially when he’s stirring up our Port Adelaide-supporting greenskeeper.” 

Now celebrating their tenth year of friendship forged through a shared love of golf, after hundreds of rounds, Tony and John don’t plan on slowing down any time soon! 

Set in Thomas Turner Reserve, the picturesque Valley View Par 3 Golf Course offers accessible, challenging holes which provide golfers of all abilities and ages with a safe venue to enjoy. No bookings are required for small groups and it’s a snap to play, with holes ranging from 60m to 146m. 

To learn more about Valley View Golf Course, visit here or contact the friendly team on 8263 2189. 

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