In a bold move that marks the next chapter in its remarkable resurgence, Bearspaw Golf Club will officially become a fully private club again on Jan. 1, 2026. Read More
’Bearspaw’s story is one of resilience and reinvention,’ says Andrew Melton, retired CEO of Melcor REIT and chair of Bearspaw
‘Bearspaw’s story is one of resilience and reinvention,’ says Andrew Melton, retired CEO of Melcor REIT and chair of Bearspaw
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In a bold move that marks the next chapter in its remarkable resurgence, Bearspaw Golf Club will officially become a fully private club again on Jan. 1, 2026.
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The transition marks a defining moment in Bearspaw’s transformation — from a club that faced financial uncertainty just six years ago to one of Alberta’s most sought-after golf destinations.
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“Bearspaw’s story is one of resilience and reinvention,” says Andrew Melton, retired CEO of Melcor REIT and chair of Bearspaw. “What began (as) a bold rebuild has grown into a dynamic and thriving community. The next chapter is about preserving that momentum, delivering even more for our members, and fulfilling our commitment.”
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The club was established in 1983 and Melton has been a member since 1985 — one of 500 shareholders at that time. Unfortunately, the club went into receivership in 2018 and Windmill Golf Group was appointed to run the club. According to Melton it did a very good job for three years, but he and 13 investors were able to buy it out of receivership in 2019, internalize the management, and set out to reinvigorate Bearspaw, with a dedication to serving the golfing community with warmth, hospitality, and a passion for the game.
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One of those investors who certainly has that passion is Alan Norris. Also a long-time member of the club, Norris says now that he has retired as CEO of Brookfield Residential Properties (remaining as chair emeritus of that board), he has the time to devote his energies to helping ensure Bearspaw’s long-term vision for sustainability. As a semi-private club for five years, that strategy helped it continue to be open. Norris believes it will now become one of the pre-eminent golf clubs in Western Canada and going private is the next step.
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“This is an exciting and affirming step forward,” says general manager Richard Creally, who was hired in 2023 from a Vancouver club. “Going fully private reflects not only the club’s original vision, but the incredible momentum we’ve built in recent years. The strong demand from new and returning members reinforces our belief that Bearspaw offers something truly special — an exceptional golf experience in a setting that feels both elevated and welcoming.”
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Melton says membership growth has been particularly strong over the last two weeks and is expected to cap out by mid-month. It will soon introduce a waitlist for new members and increase its one-time initiation fee from $40,000 to $50,000, effective Aug. 15.
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Much has been done to make the membership really attractive. The club enjoys an expansive terrain over its immaculate 7,100-yard course and working with acclaimed Alberta golf architect Wade Horrocks, hole 16 has been tweaked while he is developing a master plan to further elevate the playing experience.
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