Drawing Inspiration from the Sandbelt & Heathland: Mike Cocking on Fall Line GC and OCM Design - The Greenprint 15

We're joined on this architecturally focused episode by Mike Cocking of OCM. OCM have been steadily building their reputation in the architecture world, particularly across Australia and more recently in the USA.

Mike talks about the team's transition into the US market after many standout projects in Australia, such as Peninsula Kingswood and Lonsdale Links. That move began with Shady Oaks in Dallas–Fort Worth, and despite the challenges of COVID, it ultimately led to one of the game's most significant projects: the redevelopment of Medinah No. 3.

From there, the conversation dives into two fascinating OCM projects in America: Fall Line in Georgia, which opened in 2024, and Tepetonka in Minnesota, currently under construction and set to open in 2026. Fall Line is especially interesting for its bold concept of utilising two distinct design traditions—the Melbourne Sandbelt and the London Heathlands—over two distinctly different golf courses. Mike explains the techniques used to achieve the result, including finding the right playing surfaces, vegetation and design aspects such as width and tree removal.

We also touch on "Sandy Links" on Melbourne's Sandbelt and right next to Royal Melbourne. It is an innovative course that is also home to Golf Australia and the PGA.

Mike is not only a talented designer but also a thoughtful voice in golf architecture. He shares insights on how courses function, reflect their environments, and shape the playing experience, offering a rare window into the creative side of modern design.

OCM

Check out the Hole Flyovers at Tepetonka:

https://www.tepetonka.com/

A big thanks to our Show Partner - Toro

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