The Mackay Golf Club played host to this year’s PGA Professionals Championship of North Queensland qualifying where Scott Gillespie and Anthony Johnson have gained exemptions into the 2019 PGA Professionals Championship Final.

Nine professionals challenged for the opportunity to represent the North at the 2019 PGA Professionals Championship Final held on the beautiful Hamilton Island Golf Club from 18 – 21 November, 2019.

Townsville based professional Scott Gillespie was the first to qualify, firing a round of 1-under 70 in difficult playing conditions.

“I am thrilled to make it through to the PGA Professionals Championship,” said Gillespie.

“I like to try and support all the North Queensland events where I can. This is the third time I have tried to qualify for the PGA Professionals Championship and it’s third time lucky, I guess.

“The course was tricky out there with a strong breeze blowing; fortunately I got off to a good start making three birdies in my first eight holes, which made the difference towards the end of the round.”

Mackay based professional Anthony Johnson had to endure a playoff against Nick Russell to book his spot in the PGA Professionals Championship Final after both players finished on even par 71.

Local favourite Johnson missed his tee shot left down the playoff hole, forced to layup short of the green.

His chip shot finished 12 foot short of the pin but he would make the putt to save par, where Russell made the green in regulation golf however an unfortunate three putt ended his chances.

Further south, Royal Adelaide Golf Club has hosted the PGA Professionals Championship of South Australia where John Corbett and Chris Duke fired rounds of 3-under and 2-under par respectively to qualify for the 2019 PGA Professionals Championship Final.

Nine professionals also took to the course in South Australia where Corbett and Duke proved too good for the competition, sitting two shots ahead of third place to secure their spots at Hamilton Island.

The PGA Professionals Championship Final will be held at Hamilton Island Golf Club from 18-21 November, 2019.