One of Australia's most successful golfing ambassadors, Mr Marsh was among an extensive list of special guests at the Hannans Golf Club for last week's historic signing of an agreement which formally paves the way for the resort development.

It will end a wait of close to 25 years by members of the local golfing fraternity.

Last week's signing ratified amendments to the Goldfields Golf Course Complex Development Agreement between the State Government, LandCorp and the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder.

The signing of a deed of variation to the original agreement, which was struck in January, 2004, would see an expanded international-style resort at the centre of an initial 18-hole course, with provisions up to 36 holes.

The job of designing the course has been charged to Mr Marsh, who is considered among the very best in the world in his field.

"This project obviously has special significance for me because I was born just down the road and I am a Kalgoorlie boy, albeit for only a small amount of time," Mr Marsh said.

"For me , it is a fantastic opportunity to create something unique in WA and it will be a fantastic development.

"I have had the pleasure of being involved in golf course developments around the world and I will tackle this project in the same manner.

"The landscape will change dramatically over the next two years and it might appear, at times, to be progressing slowly but that is the normal process.

"Along the way, we will be using the very latest in technology and quite honestly, I think local residents will be absolutely blown away by the results.

"The concept has received a grandstand of support along the way and now it is up to us to deliver - and I promise you we will.

"I think when it opens in two years' time, you will be amazed with the results."

Since turning professional as a player in 1969, Mr Marsh has claimed victories in more than 60 international tournaments - in addition to major success on all five of the world's major golfing tours.

As a golf course designer, Mr Marsh boasts more than 30 major projects to his name throughout the world, including the United States and Europe.

He was awarded an MBE by the Queen in 1984.

"An international-standard resort in the midst of a world-class desert-style grassed golf course from WA's world renowned golf course designer will make this a Mecca for all who visit it," Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said.

"Further, LandCorp will develop approximately 500 residential lots as part of the Goldfields Golf Course Estate to complement the development of the golf course and tourism complex.

"Ultimately, land development surrounding this golf course will provide 1500 to 2000 lots, an expanded commercial precinct, new schools and public open space."

The State Government has committed $10.5 million in cash and indirect funding arrangements, with LandCorp chiming in with about $4 million towards necessary infrastructure.