Tasmania’s reputation as a first class golf and holiday destination will be further enhanced when it hosts the 10th anniversary celebration of the Wrest Point International Masters Golf Championship in Hobart from 10 to 15 January 2010.

The Wrest Point Masters ranks among the country’s most popular tournaments for amateur golfers. Indeed more than 4,000 golfers, mostly from the mainland, have travelled to Hobart for the week long celebration of golf and social events.

The four round tournament is open to all male and female golfers over the age of 35. There are 15 tournament divisions based on age and handicap, so you are guaranteed to play with golfers of around the same age and standard as you.

Playing two rounds at the famed Tasmania and Royal Hobart golf clubs is a major drawcard. Jack Nicklaus was in high praise of the Royal Hobart layout when he won the Australian Open there in 1971. Tasmanian Golf Club is built on a bluff and surrounded by water on three sides giving way to some spectacular views. The par 5 third hole has been favourably compared to the 18th at Pebble Beach. Lush fairways and fast greens are a feature of both courses and new water sources ensure they are in mint condition year round.

Hosted by Go Golfing, Australia’s biggest organiser of tournaments and tours, visiting golfers are very well catered for. There is transport to and from golf each day. Your clubs are transferred between the courses. Pull buggies are in abundance and additional carts are brought in for those who need them. Drink carts keep you refreshed on the course.

A vibrant social scene is synonymous with the Wrest Point Masters experience. Before any golf is played, the opening night welcome dinner sets the scene. Tasmania’s fresh seafood, local oysters and fresh produce are a feature of the menu. Internationally renowned comedy magician Phill Cass will have the audience spellbound.

Every night golfers convene in the ONYX Bar for the daily happy hour, complimentary finger food, golf presentations and lucky draws. The modern bar has floor to ceiling glass windows that showcase the vibrant harbour activities.

The final night gala presentation dinner is a grand affair. The expansive menu has culinary delights to suit all tastes and the dessert buffet has many temptations. Championship presentations and major prize draws give way to an evening of entertainment, big band, dancing and fun.

Major sponsor Wrest Point afford competitors a saving of around 25 percent off their normal room rates. Starting at just $62.50 per night twin share, the accommodation ranges from motel style rooms to luxury suites overlooking the harbour.

Wrest Point’s waterfront location, extensive resort facilities, casino, award winning restaurants and bars with live entertainment as well as hosting all tournament functions make it the ideal place to stay. Entrants also receive a rewards card entitling them to discounts and exclusive offers at all Wrest Point venues.

Great value and professional organisation ensures the tournament is sold out well in advance each year. The all inclusive tournament entry package is just $539. Golfers registering before 30 September automatically qualify for a $50 discount as well as a dozen Callaway golf balls and a bonus entry into the major prize draws.

Playing two mornings and two afternoons and a rest day in the middle, there is plenty of time to explore Hobart or just relax. Salamanca Markets, tours of Cascade Brewery, Cadbury Chocolate Factory, Port Arthur Historic Site or a relaxing afternoon at the Coal River Valley vineyards are popular after golf activities.

Many golfers choose to arrive early to soak up the Sydney to Hobart yacht race celebrations and Taste of Tasmania wine and food festival. Cricket lovers will be keen to catch the Aussies in action again Pakistan at Bellerive Oval.

Straight after the tournament is a 5 day tour to the north of the state. The highlights include a visit to the Australasian Golf Museum and a few holes at Australia’s oldest golf course at Bothwell. The next couple of days are golfing nirvana at Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links. This stunning links design is rated the number one public access course in Australia. A relaxing couple of days in Launceston, winery tours, group dinners and are all included.

For more information on the Wrest Point Masters week of golf, contact Go Golfing on freecall 1300 55 28 55 or visit www.gogolfing.net.au