Local golf enthusiasts formed Hawks Nest Golf Club in 1963, however it was not until the early 1970s when land was leased from the Great Lakes Council, that volunteers commenced clearing and construction of the first 9 holes. The course was extended to 12 holes in 1986 and then to 18 holes in 1989. Today, the golf course has a reputation as one of the premier golf courses on the North Coast of New South Wales. In 1977 the original Clubhouse was built and a liquor license granted. Since then the Clubhouse has undergone several extensions and renovations, most recently an internal refurbishment in January 2004.