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The exclusive Cathedral Lodge and Golf Club covers more than 300 acres of family-owned farmland in Thornton, a small town on the banks of the Goulburn River in North East Victoria. It’s just two hours’ drive from Melbourne but feels a world away with its idyllic scenery and laidback vibe. This December, the world-class lodge and its course are set to host the Cathedral Invitational on December 9 and 10, a tournament that’s essential viewing for any golf lover.
But it’s not all birdies, eagles and albatrosses. Here, secure your tickets to this one-of-a-kind event and find out how you can turn the day into the hole-in-one escape.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Cathedral Invitational
This exclusive event first took place in 2022 and has quickly become a standout on the Victorian golfing summer calendar with nearly 3,000 people in attendance. The Cathedral Invitational is open to members only on day one and is played in front of a public attendance on day two.
What Makes the Tournament Unique
Held at one of Australia’s most exclusive private courses, the Cathedral Invitational is a rare chance to watch the second round of play on Wednesday, December 10 – the only day of the year where the public can access the club.
The competitor field is made up of men and women, who play 36 holes across the two days. The invitation-only tournament is played out with no cuts, ensuring every golfer competes across the full two rounds.
The 18-hole championship course was designed by the legendary Greg Norman, with a challenging but accessible collection of holes that follow the natural variation of the landscape.
2025 Event Highlights
Reigning Cathedral Invitational champion and Australian golfing legend Adam Scott will grace the greens again, returning to fight off a fierce field of challengers. The former world number one will take on six-time PGA Tour event winner Marc Leishman and former US Open champion Geoff Ogilvy, while the LPGA’s rising Australian star Cassie Porter leads the female contingent.
Those attending the tournament as spectators can watch 46 golfers drive, chip and putt it out for the ultimate prestige. It’s set to be two days of sporting excellence, with the first tee-off at 8.30am and play scheduled to finish at 4pm on the second day of the tournament. Expect an elevated atmosphere shared with golfing purists; with capacity to ensures there’s no need to jostle with fellow spectators for the best spot along the greens.
Turn It Into a Mini Victorian Escape
The Cathedral Invitational is a great reason to explore more of North East Victoria, with diverse dining opportunities and historic towns at your fingertips.
How Far Is Cathedral Lodge From Melbourne?
Getting here is as easy as a tap-in, with the drive from Melbourne’s CBD typically taking around two hours. Some routes will guide you along the Black Spur Drive from Healesville to Narbethong, famous for its lush temperate rainforest landscapes that feel straight out of Jurassic Park.
There are plenty of antique stores and bakeries to discover on the drive from the outskirts of Melbourne to Thornton. If you need to stretch your legs a bit more, try a walk around Healesville’s peaceful Maroondah Reservoir or head down one of many paths at the nearby Badger Weir Picnic Area in the Yarra Ranges National Park.
Where to Stay: Peppers Marysville
Just a 30-minute drive from Cathedral Lodge and 90 minutes’ from Melbourne, the stylish Peppers Marysville provides the ideal launching pad for your golf escape.
It has everything you need for a comfortable country stay, with a heated pool, wellness spa and sauna – ideal for golf enthusiasts wanting to put their feet up after a day at the tournament.
Another option is to base yourself in the Yarra Valley and Healesville and make the drive to the tournament in the morning. Look to stays like RACV Healesville Country Club & Resort, Yarra Valley Lodge or Balgownie Estate Yarra Valley.
Things to Do Around Marysville & the Cathedral Ranges
From cute shops and inviting pubs to scenic peaks and vineyard-lined valleys, there’s no shortage of highlights to discover in and around this historic town.
Explore the Cathedral Ranges State Park
Raw, dramatic and beautiful, Cathedral Ranges State Park is a joy to explore. It has diverse hiking trails that fit a variety of fitness levels; the Friends Nature Trail and Little River Walk are perfect for a gentle stroll, while the Razorback Trail will suit those who are looking for more of a challenge.
Thrill seekers can take the adventure up a level with rock-climbing and abseiling spots for all abilities. However you choose to explore the park, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife including wallabies, echidnas and superb lyrebirds, and unique flora including the towering mountain ash, the world’s tallest flowering tree.
Discover Marysville’s Food & Wine Scene
This area is home to an ever-evolving gastronomic scene, with old favourites and fresh takes providing the goods for every palate and budget. Andiamo Restaurant & Bar at Peppers Marysville dishes up Italian-inspired meals showcasing the region’s best local produce, paired with an extensive wine list. The Duck Inn plates up classic pub fare, while the homey Marysville Country Bakery has flaky pies and moreish pastries.
Top tipples aren’t hard to find either, whether it’s a relaxed High Country-inspired pint at On Point Brewery in nearby Alexandra, or a unique varietal at Taggerty’s picturesque Little River Wines (visitors welcome by appointment). Sedona Estate is located an hour’s drive from Marysville and offers magnificent drops among the rolling hills surrounding Yea Valley.
Waterfalls & Nature Spots Worth the Detour
The region’s landscape includes many energetic waterfalls, from the plunging cascades at the 84-metre-high Steavenson Falls to the multi-tiered Keppel Falls, both of which are accessible with a scenic stroll.
Sprawling Lake Eildon is a little further afield but is worth the journey. You’ll find an abundance of water sports and activities, with opportunities to throw a line in, paddle a kayak, take a wild wakeboarding adventure or enjoy a quiet shoreline walk. Bring your binoculars – this is also where you can enjoy some of the state’s best birdwatching.
