The would-be designer of the course appeared shocked as he took in the daunting sight of the old Cheetham Salt Works.

"It resembled the surface of the moon. There were salt ponds, and levy banks in purple blue and green colours.

"It was in the middle of nowhere. You needed a compass to find the place," Mr Head said. "Greg tapped me on the shoulder and said quietly: 'What have we got ourselves into?' I told him to relax, everything would work out fine."

What started as a Malaysian company's daring vision of a swamp land-turned- golfer's oasis, became a reality.

It has been 10 years since Melbourne's first-ever resort-style golf housing estate got off the ground.

"It seemed far-fetched to people at the time, but it's been a big success. There is nothing like it in Melbourne. The estate has a strong community and environmental focus, with 50per cent of the land taken up by the open space of wetlands waterways, the lake and the golf course," Mr Head said.

Sanctuary Lakes residents and club members gathered at the golf course last Wednesday to celebrate its 10th anniversary.

The founding captain and team president, Alan Smith and Graeme Glasson, were honoured for their work in establishing the club, with the annual Club Champions Trophy renamed after them.

Course designer Mr Norman sent his congratulations.

"I remain proud of my involvement with Sanctuary Lakes and I wish the club every success in the future. The course is looking fantastic; you have a strong membership base and good management."

Sanctuary Lakes has grown to include more than 6500 residents, with the majority using club facilities. This year, the estate will begin using recycled water to maintain the golf course and surrounds. "We've been negotiating with Melbourne Water for a few years to get the new pipes installed. It is finally going to happen this year, which will ease our reliance on town water, and ensure more sustainable management of the course," Mr Head said.