Injury
has forced the withdrawal of Scotsman Paul Lawrie from both the Emirates Australian
Open and Australian PGA Championship.

The
1999 Open winner, Lawrie was planning to return to Australia following a
limited season on the European Tour due to ongoing back problems.

Lawrie
said he was hugely disappointed to have to withdraw from two of Australia’s
main drawcards in the summer of golf.

"I
have struggled with an ongoing back problem this season, which on numerous
occasions has resulted in me having to withdraw from some European Tour events,"
Lawrie said.

"Unfortunately
in the past week my back has flared up again and, after undergoing some intense
physio in the hope of making a full recovery, I have been advised by medical
professionals to take some time off.

"I
was really looking forward to playing tournament golf in Australia again,
having been there a few months ago for some corporate days for one of my
partners. I have heard so many positive things about the event, and I wish the
PGA of Australia a successful week. I hope to be able to play and experience it
for myself in the near future."

Brian Thorburn, CEO of the PGA of
Australia, said: "It is disappointing to not have Paul attending the tournament
due to injury. We wish him all the best with his recovery and we hope to see
him down in Australia at the PGA Championship soon."

Emirates Australian
Open championship director Trevor Herden said: "It’s
unfortunate, but as his back has flared up, we understand completely. We hope
he returns to full fitness as soon as possible and look forward to seeing him
in Australia next year."

Tickets for
the Australian PGA Championship are now on sale at www.ticketek.com.au with children 16 years and under
admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Discounts
are also available for members of RACV and affiliated motoring clubs as well as
for Gold Coast residents.

Visit the
Australian PGA Championship website www.pgachampionship.com.au for further details.

The
Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland as well as the City
of Gold Coast and Gold Coast Tourism proudly supports the Championship.