The tourism complex which features a range of activities for visitors of all ages was severely damaged by the March flood event, which left the 9-hole golf course under 45cm of water.

Then just as business was getting back to normal in the lead-up to the June school holidays, the delta variant of the coronavirus reared its ugly head forcing Greater Sydney into lockdown. The impact of no Sydney visits was immediate.

"We had emerged from a strong 2020/21 summer and were thinking how well we had recovered when the March floods took hold. I have been here for 17 years and no previous flood could compare to this one ... it took two weeks for the water to recede, causing major damage to the course," owner Rod Stubbs said.

He said the course had been repaired in time for the June school holidays when restrictions returned. Being closed for the September/October school holidays made a bad situation worse.

"As golf was rated an essential recreation, we were able to keep our golf course and driving range open, but we had to shut down our other activities and we do rely significantly on the Sydney market and on school holiday time. Missing out on both has been challenging."

Mr Stubbs said that the quiet time provided staff an opportunity to spruce up the complex, do general maintenance and repair work such as mending fences, mowing and improve drainage.

"Being able to open up fully this week has been refreshing. It's all systems go and we can't wait to welcome visitors back to try some of our new and improved activities."

In addition to the golfing, the complex located on Nelson Bay Road also offers a refurbished 18-hole putt-putt course, laser tag, laser clay shooting, frisbee golf and soccer golf. "Both frisbee and soccer golf in particular have been very popular with holidaymakers." David Graham's is set on 25 acres offering great affordable family fun for all ages.

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