Lynch set the benchmark in the morning field carding a 4-under 68 to take the early lead with a round featuring five birdies and an eagle on the par-5 16^th.

Watt, host of the popular Wattsup Podcast, returned to professional golf in fine form after Victoria’s lengthy layoff. The West Australian who now calls Melbourne home looked to have Lynch’s measure in the afternoon, making the turn at 3-under.

Eight straight holes of par kept Watt in the mix before a birdie on his last hole of the day, the par-5 9^th, saw him tie with good friend Lynch for the win.

“What a great way to get back into some competitive golf,” said Lynch.

“To come out to the SBI Settlers Run Pro-Am today after a long break between competitive rounds and have a win makes it even better.

“What Scott (McDermott) has been able to do in such a short time is amazing. I know all the players really appreciate the chance to play here.”

As restrictions eased in Victoria at the end of 2020, PGA Professional Scott McDermott made the SBI Settlers Run Golf & Country Club Pro-Am a priority, pulling the event together on short notice to provide his fellow PGA Professionals with the biggest one-day playing opportunities in the state offering a $20,000 prize purse for the 61-player field.

The Settlers Run Golf & Country Club tournament kicks off a busy five weeks of golf in Victoria with PGA Pro-Am Series events and the return of the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia providing plenty of playing opportunities following a quiet 2020.

“Thanks to the team here at Settlers Run, the course just keeps getting better and better each year,” Watt added.

Following a slow start in the morning field, Cardinia Beaconhills Golf Links Head Professional Dylan Higgins recovered to finish in a tie for third place at 3-under 69 alongside Simon Hawkes and Andrew Martin.

For the final SBI Settlers Run Golf & Country Club Pro-Am results visit pga.org.au.