For the first time since 1990, when local hero Ian Baker-Finch etched his name on the T.B. Hunter Cup, the Sunshine Coast will play host to the state championship.

The 2020 Isuzu Queensland Open will be hosted for the first time by Pelican Waters Golf Club from 20-23 February as part of the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia.

Further, the Golf Australia announcement marks the beginning of a new event partnership with Palm Lake Group, owners of the Greg Norman-designed layout.

Australian owned and operated, Palm Lake Group offers 35 luxury residential communities in 25 locations across Australia. More than 11,000 people call a Palm Lake Group address home. The 2020 Isuzu Queensland Open and Golf Australia digital platforms will allow the company to showcase its newest and nearest over-50s community lifestyle resort, Palm Lake Resort Caloundra Cay.  

Golf Australia’s golf operations and state senior manager Luke Bates said it was extremely pleasing to have the support of Pelican Waters and the Palm Lake Group. 

“With the great location and timing of the event, we are set to have one of the best fields assembled in many years,” Bates said.

“Through this new relationship, we are in position to further grow the event and provide a great experience for all involved.”

Palm Lake Group managing director Scott Elliott said the event’s move was a boon for the Sunshine Coast.

“We are very excited to partner with Golf Australia and bring a major event of this calibre back to the Sunshine Coast after three decades, both for the benefit of the game and for the benefit of our local community,” Elliott said.

ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia Tournaments Director Nick Dastey said it was extremely exciting to be taking professional golf back to the Sunshine Coast.

“We are really looking forward to playing a professional golf tournament back on the Sunshine Coast,” he said.

“Our players love the relaxed atmosphere of the area and we know they will enjoy competing on the world-class Pelican Waters Golf Club.

“The event will be the third event of our 2020 schedule and will follow directly after the Queensland PGA Championship, meaning golf fans in Queensland are in for a fantastic two weeks with some incredible golf.”

In addition to the Queensland Open, Golf Australia will provide numerous opportunities to involve the community through clinics and volunteer roles. Entry will be free for spectators, who are also welcome to walk the course with the professionals.