WORK has begun on a $22 million golf and entertainment venue at the Fremantle Public Golf Course.

A bulldozer from builder Sarich Building was busy in the background as Fremantle mayor and LaunchPad Fremantle licensee Scott Gunson turned the “first sod” on the multi-level driving range, sports bar and pro shop on Thursday morning.

• Mayor Ben Lawver has a bit of fun on the green after the official sod turning, with Sarich Building’s Patrick Chaney, Belgravia Leisure’s Keenan Bastjes and LaunchPad Fremantle’s Lawson Douglas and Scott Gunson. Photo by Steve Grant

Mr Gunson said “more than a golf course” the venue was a blend of technology and social experience he hoped with activate the area year-round.

Mr Gunson said the facility was expected to open in May next year in conjunction with golf course operator Belgravia Leisure.

Mr Lawver said the City had also contributed $3.2 million for capital works, and while the project had resulted in Booyeembara Park losing some trees and a slice of land, he believed the new venue made it a “good return for the community”.