Australia’s Most Exclusive Polo Club Memberships for Travelers

In the land of sweeping outback landscapes, world-renowned wine regions, and sun-kissed coasts, polo may not be the first activity that springs to mind. But for the well-traveled and well-heeled, Australia offers a quietly thriving, elegantly rugged polo scene—a blend of British tradition and Aussie charm.

While many associate polo with the palatial estates of England or the glamorous tournaments of Argentina, Australia’s elite polo clubs have carved out a distinct identity. These are not just venues for sport—they’re cultural experiences, social networks, and lifestyle destinations. For discerning travelers, especially those with a taste for high-end equestrianism, these exclusive polo memberships unlock more than access to a field—they offer a passport to a rarefied world of prestige, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re planning an extended holiday, investing in property with equestrian flair, or simply exploring the world of polo, Australia’s top clubs offer limited membership opportunities tailored to elite travelers. Here’s your definitive guide to the most prestigious polo club memberships in the country—and how you can become part of this privileged world.

The Rise of Polo in Australia: A Legacy with a Modern Edge

Polo in Australia dates back to the late 19th century, brought over by British settlers and cavalry officers. Over the decades, it evolved into a sport that blends tradition with outback grit. Today, while still under the radar compared to other luxury sports, Australian polo thrives among a close-knit community of high-net-worth individuals, international dignitaries, professional athletes, and passionate riders.

Most of Australia’s elite polo clubs are located in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, although there are exceptional experiences scattered across South Australia and Western Australia too. These clubs combine high-caliber sport with stunning countryside locations, making them a natural magnet for affluent travelers looking to blend athleticism with luxury leisure.

1. Windsor Polo Club (New South Wales)

Just a short drive from Sydney, Windsor Polo Club sits in the picturesque Hawkesbury Valley and is one of Australia’s most established and prestigious polo institutions. It’s a magnet for business elites, socialites, and foreign dignitaries visiting Sydney.

What Makes It Exclusive:

• By invitation only or referral through existing members.

• Offers temporary and international visitor memberships for travelers.

• Hosts elite tournaments, including the annual NSW Polo Open.

Traveler Benefits:

Windsor Polo Club offers short-term membership packages for foreign nationals and travelers staying in Sydney for extended periods. These include access to private games, VIP tournament seating, and social events.

For horse owners traveling with their equines, Windsor offers premium agistment (boarding) and grooming services. For those without their own mounts, premium polo ponies are available for hire through affiliated stables.

2. Garangula Polo Club (Yass, New South Wales)

Tucked away on a sprawling estate in Yass, a few hours from Canberra, Garangula is one of Australia’s most private polo clubs. Owned by one of the country’s wealthiest families, Garangula is renowned not only for its tournaments but for the exceptional quality of its grounds and its exclusive, invitation-only atmosphere.

The Traveler’s Perspective:

Garangula offers elite travelers the chance to experience polo as it was meant to be played—on wide-open fields under vast skies, with championship horses and curated luxury accommodation nearby.

While standard memberships are fiercely limited, select travel partnerships allow vetted visitors to enjoy:

• Polo clinics with professional coaches.

• Bespoke accommodation on the estate or affiliated luxury lodges.

• VIP attendance at the Garangula Polo Weekend—a social calendar highlight.

3. Ellerstina Australia (Queensland)

Modeled after its Argentinian namesake, Ellerstina Australia brings South American flair to Queensland’s polo scene. It was created by passionate players with international pedigrees and offers a youthful, dynamic take on traditional polo.

Ideal For:

• Younger elite travelers with competitive polo aspirations.

• International players looking to train during the Australian season (October–March).

• Travelers seeking an immersive polo lifestyle retreat.

Membership here can be seasonal, tailored for guests spending several months in the region. Packages may include:

• Lodging on the estate in luxury villas.

• Full equestrian services, including groomed ponies and polo training.

• Invitations to private matches and networking soirées with players and guests from around the world.

4. Victorian Polo Club (Werribee Park, Victoria)

Located just outside Melbourne, Werribee Park is the home of the Victorian Polo Club. This is arguably the most stylish of the clubs, hosting the famous Portsea Polo and drawing fashionistas, celebrities, and corporate elites.

For the Luxury Traveler:

This is the club where the sport becomes an event. Portsea Polo is one of the most photographed sporting events in the country—think champagne tents, curated art installations, and designer-clad spectators.

Temporary and guest memberships can be arranged for:

• Polo lessons with champion players.

• Access to the club’s private bar, lounge, and members’ area during events.

• Invitations to pre- and post-match social gatherings.

5. Perth Polo Club (Western Australia)

For those venturing west, the Perth Polo Club offers an authentic and upscale polo experience. Nestled in the serene Swan Valley wine region, this is one of the oldest polo clubs in Australia, and it combines rugged charm with refined hospitality.

Why It’s Special:

• Welcomes international visitors with open arms.

• Often collaborates with luxury wine estates for private events and tasting sessions post-match.

• Offers traveler-friendly seasonal memberships.

This club is perfect for those combining their love of wine, sun, and sport. Horse leasing services and quick-start clinics are also available for travelers looking to try their hand at polo.

6. Willow Tree Polo (Southern Highlands, NSW)

This boutique polo estate is more of a private retreat than a traditional club, but it’s increasingly popular among elite travelers who value seclusion. Located in the breathtaking Southern Highlands, it offers curated stays, gourmet dining, and private polo matches for guests only.

A Polo Experience Like No Other:

• Tailor-made itineraries blending equestrian activities with wellness, fine dining, and art.

• Learn the basics of polo or refine your skills with top-tier coaches.

• Stay in architect-designed accommodations with vineyard views and fireplaces.

Membership isn’t traditional—travelers book curated experiences through high-end travel agents or directly via concierge partnerships. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or corporate retreats looking for private, all-inclusive luxury.

Polo for Beginners: A Traveler’s Introduction

For elite travelers new to the sport, most Australian clubs offer private coaching sessions. These are often conducted by international-level players or national champions. Depending on your interests and duration of stay, you can opt for:

• One-day taster sessions.

• Weekend polo camps.

• Full-season training programs with competitive play.

All coaching is conducted with premium safety standards, and premium clubs offer access to fully trained polo ponies, top-tier equipment, and personal grooming teams.

The Social Side: Networking and Events

Polo isn’t just a sport—it’s a lifestyle. Joining an exclusive Australian club means stepping into a rarefied social circle. Membership grants access to:

• VIP tournament seating.

• Black-tie galas and champagne luncheons.

• Member-only events hosted at private estates.

• Invitations to international tournaments and polo tours.

For the traveler who seeks community, elegance, and meaningful connections, the social dividends of joining an Australian polo club can be just as rewarding as the sporting side.

How to Secure Membership as a Traveler

Joining a polo club in Australia as an international guest involves a few key steps:

1. Eligibility

Many clubs require:

• A referral from an existing member or partner.

• A demonstrated interest or involvement in equestrian sports.

• Background checks for longer-term or full memberships.

2. Application Process

• Submit a membership application or expression of interest online.

• Attend an introductory event or private tour.

• Some clubs require a playing test or an interview with the committee.

3. Short-Term Membership Options

Elite travelers can often access:

• Seasonal memberships (valid for 3-6 months).

• Guest passes tied to event invitations.

• Private polo retreats with temporary access to club facilities.

These are perfect for high-net-worth individuals visiting Australia on extended trips, digital nomads seeking elite sports engagement, or business travelers desiring a touch of lifestyle indulgence.

What It Costs

Costs vary widely depending on the club, services, and level of access. Expect:

• Entry-level seasonal memberships: AUD $3,000–$7,000

• Full playing memberships: AUD $10,000–$25,000+ annually

• Polo training packages: AUD $2,000+ for weekend intensives

• Custom retreats with accommodations: AUD $10,000+ per stay

Most luxury clubs offer concierge-style billing, and some even include travel arrangements, dining, and equine services in all-inclusive pricing.

The Experience Money Can’t Buy

Beyond the ponies, prestige, and Prosecco lies something intangible: time spent immersed in a world where tradition meets adrenaline, where luxury is both heritage and habitat. Australian polo is not about being seen—it’s about being engaged. It’s about galloping down sunlit fields, sipping vintage wine on terraces, and creating memories that pulse with elegance and thrill.

For elite travelers who want more than first-class flights and private yachts—for those who crave an identity rooted in legacy, style, and spirit—Australia’s most exclusive polo clubs offer an open gate into a new kind of adventure.

The invitation may not be printed. But if you’ve made it this far, consider the door nudged open.