RiverBend Golf Community, London, Ontario
Surrounded by the beautiful Kains Woods, RiverBend began as a dream for Mowbray Sifton, founder of Sifton Properties Ltd, over 50 years ago. He envisioned a community submerged in nature and designed for the golf enthusiast, with carefree new homes and the finest amenities for people approaching retirement who wanted to continue to live an active lifestyle. With the help of his sons, Mowbray’s dream has become a reality – and one of southwestern Ontario’s most desired addresses.
Since its inception, the preservation of the community’s natural surroundings and wildlife has been top priority. In 2006, RiverBend Golf Community achieved designation as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary by the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program, an award winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect the environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. To achieve certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas including: environmental planning, wildlife and habitat management, outreach and education, chemical use reduction and safety, water conservation and water quality management.
The integrated golf & residential development was sensitively designed to preserve a rare parcel of Carolinian forest that borders the scenic Thames River. A number of significant native artefacts were also preserved during the construction of the course. The natural feel of the golf course was retained by limiting home frontage primarily to one side of the fairways on only a limited number of holes, so that golfer’s aren’t overwhelmed by the surrounding development. This fine balance between golf and real estate provides golfers with a relaxing golf experience, while adding value and privacy for homeowners.
The golf course is an inspiring test of golf off the back tees for skilled golfers and an enjoyable challenge for the majority of members, from the three additional sets of tees.