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Ulverstone Golf Club posted a remarkable nett score of 47.8 to headline a bumper first round of The Scramble Championship Final at the picturesque Palms Course, Sanctuary Cove.
The team from Ulverstone in northern Tasmania – captained by Head PGA Professional Darren Spencer – fired 57 off the stick to catapult themselves into the lead of the Mixed draw in sunny conditions on Tuesday morning.
“It all just clicked for us today,” said Spencer who has played in The Scramble every year since its inception, but who is making his first appearance in a Mixed Championship Final. “There was no particular strategy, we all just got out there and had a heap of fun.”
Responsible for the day’s major highlight as well, the Ulverstone boys had an eagle on the par-4 third hole, as the team’s two highest handicappers combined for a moment to remember.
Avoiding water down the entire right side, they found the shortest way home to kickstart their charge up the leader board.
“Our 36-marker found the fairway and then our 34-handicapper put it in the hole from 80 meters,” laughed Spencer. “I couldn’t believe it but it was certainly a very special moment.
“We are all just here for a good time and suddenly we are at the top end of things, so hopefully we can go well again tomorrow.”
Playing the back nine in just 28 shots was enough for the Tasmanians to secure a lead of 1.9 strokes ahead of the team from Brisbane River Golf Club. Incidentally, the Queenslanders fired the day’s best gross round of 56, to enter the clubhouse at -20.3
It was a day for low scoring, as three of the Mixed teams finished at better than 20-under par after handicap adjustments, impressing Tournament Director, Broc Greenhalgh.
“It’s certainly some of the best scoring we’ve seen in the first round for a little while,” he said. “It’s not uncommon for teams to go low once they know the course, but the quality out there today was outstanding.”
On the Women’s side of the draw, Lucindale Golf Club were the best of the bunch; the South Australians posting an imposing 17.2-under par to lead by 0.7 of a shot ahead of Coffs Harbour.
Captained by Craig Davis, they were in control right the way round, shooting 31 on each nine to finish with 62 off the stick.
“It was just such a fantastic day out on the course in wonderful conditions,” said Davis who is based at Mt Gambier’s GolfnMore. “The team all played really well, we have gelled superbly and we are just loving being up here.
“It’s a privilege to be their Adopt-A-Pro this week. I get to Lucindale throughout the year for some coaching and club-fitting so to spend time with them out here is fantastic.
Davis has a deep connection to The Scramble, having played in his first more than fifteen years ago, before working plenty of Championship Finals during his time at Twin Waters. Now on the other side of it again, he recognises just how valuable it is to incorporate PGA Professionals into the event.
“I think it’s vital. It’s a different environment and important to engage with the people you work with every day in a more relaxed and casual basis,” he said. “It’s a great way to make friendships and develop a stronger connection.”
Tight at the top in the Women’s draw, Lakelands Country Club sit just 0.2 of a shot adrift after the first round. The Western Australians shot 59 off the stick to come in at 17-under. Set to be hotly contested for the remainder of the week, Coffs Harbour are only a further half shot back after an opening 16.5-under par.
The Scramble Championship Final continues tomorrow, as teams fight to make the cut. In the Mixed field, the top ten teams after tomorrow will play for glory on Thursday, with the top three in the Women’s draw set to battle it out on the final day.
For a full leader board, click HERE
For more information on The Scramble Final, click HERE
One of the most iconic events on the Australian golfing calendar, the Scramble Championship Final returns to the stunning Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club on the Gold Coast this December 5 – 8.
A landmark occasion, 2022 marks the 30th iteration of The Scramble – Australia’s largest and most successful teams’ event – and the first time the Final has been at Sanctuary Cove since 1994.
General Manager of Tournament and Event Operations at the PGA of Australia, Natalie McIlroy is thrilled to see it return to the Gold Cost and to welcome all the finalists.
“Sanctuary Cove hosted the Championship Final in the early years of The Scramble, she said. “So, it is fitting that we return for the 30th.
“The final has been held on the Sunshine Coast at Twin Waters Golf Club and the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort in recent years and we would like to thank them for their wonderful hospitality over the years.”
This week’s Championship Final is the culmination of the two sections of the Scramble; the mixed and women’s draws coming together at one venue to play for their respective titles.
Across one practice day and three rounds of competition, twenty teams from around Australia will compete for the Mixed Scramble Championship Final, and six teams from six states, compete for the Women’s Scramble Championship.
Already a thrill to be competing in the Championship Final, to qualify teams must have won their local Scramble and a regional final. A significant achievement in itself, in 2022, nearly 300 Scramble events took place, seeing almost 25,000 golfers take part.
The all-inclusive trip for qualifiers will include four rounds of golf in tournament conditions, event functions, accommodation and flights, all for the honour to be crowned the 30th mixed champions and 17th women’s champions.
“Qualifying for the Championship Final is really the major prize of The Scramble,” said McIlroy. “And I am sure that all of the finalists will be very excited at the prospect of spending a few days at Sanctuary Cove.”
One of the major drawcards of The Scramble every year, is the chance to play alongside a PGA Professional. Australia’s accredited experts in golf, each team will be allocated a PGA Professional for the week, who will be able to provide guidance, advice and more than likely a straight tee shot to navigate the Championship layout at the Palms Course at Sanctuary Cove.
PGA of Australia Events Manager, Louise Meagher knows just how valuable this will be right throughout the Championship Final.
“It’s wonderful to welcome twenty-six PGA Professionals who will form part of all of the teams this week,” she said. “It is always a real thrill for our competitors to play with them and it is such a valuable experience.”
A sentiment echoed by Geoff Stewart, General Manager of the PGA Membership and Education Department, he supports the inclusion of PGA Professionals in the Championship Final.
“It is one of the unique parts about our game that players of varying abilities can all play together and enjoy the experience,” he said. “PGA Professionals have a wealth of knowledge and experience, and it’s wonderful that they will have the chance to share that directly with golfers on the course this week.”
All the action kicks off tomorrow, with first groups off at 7:30am.
The Scramble Championship Final is an elimination format Ambrose, with conditions outlined below:
Congratulations to all teams who have qualified and good luck!
FINALISTS (MIXED)
Brighton Lakes Golf Club (NSW); Keysborough Golf Club (VIC); Brisbane River Golf Club (QLD)
Ulverstone Golf Club (TAS); Warrnambool Golf Club (VIC); Pinjarra Golf Club (WA)
Broome Golf Club (WA); Leeton Golf Club (NSW); Blackwood Golf Club (SA); Kiama Golf Club (NSW)
Hervey Bay Golf and Country Club (QLD); Yowani Golf Club (ACT); Sarina Golf Club (QLD)
Yamba Golf and Country Club (NSW); Shelly Beach Golf Club (NSW); Cranbourne Golf Club (VIC)
Mudgee Golf Club (NSW); Windaroo Lakes Golf Club (QLD); Fairbairn Golf Club (NSW); Ayr Golf Club (QLD)
FINALISTS (WOMEN’S)
Lucindale Golf Club (SA); Lakelands Country Club (WA); Launceston Golf Club (TAS); Coffs Harbours Golf Club (NSW); Queanbeyan Golf Club (ACT); Howlong Golf Club (NSW)
More information on The Scramble Championship Final is available HERE
It is fitting that Australian golfing icon, Peter O’Malley, played his 35th and final national Open in a year that the sport welcomed some of the world’s biggest names to the Melbourne sandbelt.
Although his playing days have drawn to a close, O’Malley’s indelible influence on the game remains.
A player who gave so much of himself to the game both at home and overseas, the man affectionately known as ‘Pom’ played a driving role in growing the profile of Australian golf; a profile plainly evident in the appetite for golf and quality of the fields that exist at the ISPS HANDA Australian Open this week.
One of only 50 Life Members in the 111-year history of the PGA of Australia, was inducted in May of this year. Due recognition for his extensive service to the sport over more than three decades, he came from humble beginnings to establish one of the more successful careers in Australian golf.
Three times a winner in Europe, he has always been a force to be reckoned with at home; a five-time winner on the PGA Tour of Australasia. A strong performer in the Majors too, O’Malley finished inside the top-ten at the Open Championship twice, his best performance T-7 in 1997 at Royal Troon.
Perhaps best known for his barnstorming finish to the 1992 Scottish Open, O’Malley played the last five holes in 7-under to win ahead of Sir Nick Faldo and Colin Montgomerie at the Gleneagles King’s Course.
Thereafter, O’Malley continued to give his all to the game in Australia. From 2010, for eight years, he served as a Director for the PGA of Australia, including two as Chair.
During this time, he worked hard to ensure the long-term health of the game in Australia. The fruits of his labour plain to see this week, as Australian golf makes history; hosting the world’s best players in the first national Open to be played by men and women at the same time.
“It’s great to see some of the big names come back for the Australian summer,” O’Malley explained. “All the guys are playing good golf and I think Australian golf is in a good spot.”
Although he missed the cut, O’Malley was steady on Thursday as he fired an opening round one-over par 71, in blustery afternoon conditions at Victoria Golf Club.
“It’s great – so good just still to be playing,” said O’Malley, “I played pretty solid, I only hit a couple of bad shots.
“It’s great to be down on the sandbelt, we haven’t been here for a number of years, but it’s one of my favourite places to play.”
Elsewhere, fellow Australian icon Peter Fowler has now played in the national Open in six different decades.
A stunning achievement, he was victorious in 1983, claiming the Stonehaven Cup by three strokes ahead of Ian Baker-Finch.
Incidentally, his win that week came at Kingston Heath Golf Club, so there was a nice sense of symmetry this time around; the field split across the two sandbelt gems on Thursday and Friday.
To follow the 2022 ISPS HANDA Australian Open live, click HERE
More than a decade ago, Scott McDermott remembers being struck by the lack of opportunity available to a friend of his living with cerebral palsy.
“He just missed out on a lot of things.”
Determined to change that and ensure that people living with a disability would have the same chance as everyone else, McDermott decided – while still completing his PGA Associateship – that golf could be the avenue to achieve this.
Now the Teaching Professional at Frankston’s Centenary Park, McDermott is a certified All-Abilities coach and works hard every day to ensure that his National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) students receive the care, attention and respect that helps to foster an enduring relationship to the game.
“When you are coaching all-abilities golf, you need to be able to dedicate 110% of yourself to the individual,” McDermott explained. “Otherwise, it’s not going to work and that isn’t fair on anyone.
“I’m very grateful that I’ve been able to develop a program at Centenary Park where that is what I can do.”
Taking his offering to the next level, McDermott – who specialises in coaching individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism – has created a thriving All-Abilities program in Melbourne’s South East. He works closely with the NDIS to ensure that students have a clear sense of structure and consistency – and the benefits are plain to see.
“Our golf program fits into the Information, Linkages and Capacity category of the NDIS scheme,” McDermott explained. “This means we are using golf to help teach skills of communication, respect and etiquette – all while helping the individual become more socially active.
“Golf really is such a great vehicle for that.”
Although his program started small, McDermott now has between 12 – 14 regular NDIS students who he sees every week. Deeply rewarding for him to see them improve and enjoy coming to the course, he also believes that the structure of the program is a winner – for player and coach.
“Because of the way it is set up as part of their NDIS plan, I’ve got between 20-30 hours of coaching locked in up until the end of next year,” said McDermott. “That means we can develop a sense of structure and improve on a consistent basis.
“I really believe that for golf professionals who are passionate about actually developing a player, this is one of the best options they can have.”
Key to this process, is removing the burden of expectation. Instead, McDermott places a premium on getting to know his students, forming a connection and understanding what their goals are in the game.
He has worked with a range of players, from student overcoming a spinal cord injury whose primary goal is to walk eighteen holes, to a young man who uses the game as therapy – where the wide-open spaces and chance to hit the impact bag are the release.
Ultimately, McDermott knows one size does not fit everyone.
“A lot of the time, it’s not about you teaching them – it’s them teaching you and then going on to form a relationship,” said McDermott, whose reputation as an All-Abilities coach has seen him become the state coach for the Special Olympics team.
“You need to provide a comfortable, relaxing and approachable environment, and then the skill development comes secondary,” he says. “It really does.”
Set to throw open the doors at Centenary Park on Saturday, McDermott will be running his second All-Abilities Come and Try Day, to align with International Day of People with a Disability.
Entirely free, the day is the perfect way to introduce people with a disability to the game for the first time, or to reintroduce former players to the game they love, following accident or illness.
McDermott is particularly excited for Saturday, to be running the program in conjunction with two of his Special Olympic athletes – William and Chris.
“The coolest thing about Saturday is that they will be helping to structure they day,” McDermott said. “I truly believe that the person who really knows how they want to be coached is the person with the intellectual disability.
“Additionally, to have William and Chris there shows that we care and are passionate about delivering the best possible experience.
The day is set to give everyone the chance to find and enjoy what golf means to them. Never prescriptive, the All-Abilities Come and Try Day will be entirely adaptive, giving players the chance to learn through play, with games, drills and scenarios designed to suit a range of skill and interest levels.
“This is not about throwing people into the deep end,” explained McDermott, “instead it’s about giving a positive first experience and ensuring that people want to keep progressing.
“Ultimately success is people coming and having a good time, and people seeing merit in what we are doing here for the whole community.”
For more information on the Centenary Park All-Abilities Come and Try Day, click HERE
General Manager at Medway Golf Club in Melbourne’s West, Brett Scothern is committed to ensuring an inclusive and enjoyable environment for everyone at the golf course.
His dedication to this cause saw him named Victorian Management Professional of the Year for 2022.
We chatted with Brett about his time in the game and specifically as a PGA Professional.
Who got you into the game?
“I remember my uncle arrived to Australia from England and he was a golfer. He took me out for my first game at our local course – Melton Valley Golf Club when I was about seven or eight. My dad then took up the game and we played Melton and Gisborne together. I have basically spent every day on a golf course since then, be it working or playing.”
What advice would you give a new PGA Professional?
“Learn everything about the game early on. From there, then you can be the best you can in one particular area; coaching, retail, fitting, management – whatever you want to do. If you are one of the best, you will always have work opportunities arise.
What motivates you every day?
“I just enjoy seeing golfers enjoy their round and experience at the club. Particularly new golfers coming through our various programs. A good result every month with the profit/ loss statement is certainly motivating, too!”
How do you think we can make the game more accessible/ enjoyable for more people?
“I think overall, the main golfing bodies are on the right track and we have got a lot better as an industry lately. We have to keep promoting the game on more than a club membership/ competition basis. Someone who hits balls at a driving range/ mini golf/ one-club golfers are all golfers too. social players and non-members need to be treated well so they want to keep playing.”
What is your favourite golfing memory?
“Playing the 1997 Vic Open. My one and only tour event, I played as an amateur and pre-qualified. Although I missed the cut at Victoria Golf Club, it was fantastic to be a part of it with Allenby, Ogilvy, Baddeley, Lonard and all of them out there on course in a real tournament atmosphere. I Thought it would be one of many, but I took a career change a year later.”
What would you serve at the Masters Champions Dinner?
“Yorkshire pudding or eye fillet steak.”
What’s your favourite part about being a PGA Professional?
“The opportunity to work in any facet of the industry to stay fresh. You can manage a club, coach, work in retail, even play in great events if you want to. There are lots of great people all sharing a passion for the game and the logo is a great way to gain respect in the industry.”
What do you never go to work without?
“My mobile phone, how sad!”
PGA Professionals were suitably recognised at the 2022 Fortinet Australia PGA Championship, with some of the world’s best golfers teeing off in front of signage promoting our accredited experts in golf.
The signs, which surrounded the tee and green of the 314-metre par-4 second hole, promoted PGA Professionals as Australia’s “experts in golf,” encouraging golfers to seek out the services of a PGA Professional in order to improve both performance and enjoyment in all aspects of their game.
General Manager of the PGA Membership and Education department, Geoff Stewart was pleased to see PGA Professionals given pride of place at the tournament with the richest prize on the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia.
“It was great to have all the signage on the hole dedicated to our PGA Professionals,” he said. “They give so much to the game, so to celebrate that and promote it across the TV coverage was a wonderful opportunity.”
The messaging, which read “elevate your game with the experts in golf” and “get your golfing advice from the right place,” celebrates PGA Professionals as the answer for everything golf and for every golfer.
Additionally, the PGA Professional logo featured on every sign, a nod to the PGA’s commitment to promoting awareness of the logo and what it represents.
“Every PGA Professional works hard to earn that logo,” said Stewart. “It represents their expertise, professionalism and dedication and they are all very proud to have the right to wear it.
“To have it on display all week will help re-affirm that whenever a golfer is in need of assistance in any part of their game, they can trust they are getting the best possible service when they see the PGA Professional logo.”
Popular amongst the PGA Professionals in attendance during the week, there were some special guests at the second hole as well.
PGA immortal, and PGA Life Member Charlie Earp enjoyed his time at the Australian PGA Championship and even took a moment to get a photo in front of the PGA Professional branded hole.
Earp spent 45 years as the Head PGA Professional at Royal Queensland Golf Club from 1958 – 2003, his contribution to the game in the sunshine state and indeed right throughout Australia unparalleled.
Tasmania’s dedicated PGA Professionals have been recognised as state vocational award winners in front of their peers at a presentation dinner at the Salamanca Inn over the weekend.
Their contributions spanning coaching, management and business operations, PGA Membership Manager for Tasmania and Victoria, Luke Bower, was pleased to honour them last night.
“Our PGA Professionals do such great work right around the country,” said Bower. “It is always a special night when we get the chance to celebrate them and to recognise the wonderful work that they do for our industry every day.”
Head Professional at Kingston Beach, Daniel Gawley was named Tasmania Club Professional of the year.
Ever since assuming the role at Kingston Beach, Gawley has worked hard to ensure an optimal experience for members and guests, having entirely revamped the club Pro Shop to streamline operations. To that end, he has established a number of partnerships with key business suppliers to meet and exceed the needs of the club. Also passionate about growing the junior game, he has managed to attract and retain increased numbers to the club’s MyGolf programs over the last twelve months.
In his role as Development Manager for Golf Tasmania, Simon Weston has passionately grown the game, ensuring that golf is as strong as ever in the Apple Isle. His hard work rewarded with receipt of Management Professional of the Year; Weston’s work spans the entire industry. Significantly, his engagement with the state’s 68 golf clubs has promoted modernisation, with a significant focus on increased sustainability. Moreover, he continues to facilitate increased participation through nationally recognised programs such as MyGolf and Get into Golf.
A passionate promoter of golf across all societal demographics, Adam Holden of Tasmania Golf Club was named Coach of the Year – Game Development. Dedicated to delivering programs to adults and juniors alike, Holden regularly travels to regional Tasmania to deliver MyGolf and Get into Golf programs; helping other clubs to increase their playing numbers and members. His hard work producing tangible results, there have been more than 200 new golfers register to Tasmania Golf Club as a result of his programs. Additionally, Holden works to deliver the game to teenagers in schools, promoting a message that golf is a sport that delivers all-encompassing life lessons.
Nick White, also of Tasmania Golf Club, continues to deliver a premium coaching offering, recognised with his receipt of Coach of the Year – High Performance. Having worked with Mackenzie Wilson for a decade, he has seen her become one of the leading amateurs in the state. Such is Wilson’s success, she became the first female Tasmanian to play college golf in the US, to go along with her title of Tasmania Amateur Champion in 2020.
“Pay it forward. When you get the chance to do the right thing by someone, do it.”
That’s the simple advice that TJ King and Jayden Cripps received from Royal Hobart Teaching Professional, Scott Laycock on the eve of the 2022 Fortinet Australian PGA Championship.
The pair won their way through to Royal Queensland through their performance at the 2022 PGA Professionals Championship, thanks in part to Laycok’s generosity of spirit as the Tasmanian forfeited his own exemption.
Tomorrow morning, they will tee it up together and could not be more grateful for the opportunity.
“What Scott did just shows how much you can impact others from simple gestures,” explained King who will be playing in the Championship for the second time.
“Giving us this opportunity has had a significant impact on both of us and has certainly made me more willing to do similar sorts of things in the future.”
A sentiment echoed by Cripps, he was pleased to hear from Laycock last night.
“Scott got in touch with both of us, which was great,” Cripps said. “He didn’t have to do what he did (at Yarra Yarra) but to be here now, it really means a lot.”
Now that they are here at Royal Queensland, the first tee shot can’t come quickly enough for the pair as they compete for the richest prize on the ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia.
Their preparation diligent, both are confident that they have given themselves every chance to perform.
“I’ve been practicing, training and preparing my body; doing everything I can to make sure I am right to go come Thursday,” said Cripps. “To be honest, the hardest part has been not thinking about it too much in the lead up, it’s just so exciting.”
Similarly, King, who teed it up last week at the QLD PGA Championship, knows he has given all he can in the lead up and is ready to bring his best.
“It can be hard not to think about it, but ultimately I know I have done all the preparation and I am ready – and really excited to get out there.”
For King too, having one Australian PGA Championship experience under his belt already, means he comes into the week with an added sense of confidence.
“Just having played it once before certainly helps,” he said. “Even though we are playing for more money and with an even stronger field (than in January), I am less nervous and feel more ready.”
As they join a stellar field of homegrown and international talent competing for the Kirkwood Cup, Cripps and King know that they will be thrust into the limelight, with crowds set to flock to watch some of the biggest names in world golf.
Not that it phases them, the pair are relishing the chance.
“It’s just really cool, King smiled. “That’s why you get into the game and what you hope for one day as a kid, so to have the chance to live that this week is very special.
“The week is going to be really fun, but we’ll just go out there and keep hitting good golf shots.”
In fact, King has already been able to tick off a bucket-list item, playing some practice holes with Adam Scott yesterday.
“I actually got to play seven holes with Scott Hend, Adam Scott and Wade Ormsby,” he laughed. “That was amazing and just learning from them and soaking up as much as I could in that time was a great experience.”
Cripps, too is ready to strike a balance between soaking up the atmosphere and dialling in the focus that will be required for success.
“It will be important not to get sucked in by external things and zone in when I need to,” he explained.
“At the same time, it is very special walking around here and seeing all these guys.
“I catch myself every now and then. You realise that it’s becoming very real.”
However it pans out for King and Cripps this week, their pair of PGA Professionals – and great friends – are thrilled to have the chance to make good on their golden opportunity, ready for the week of a lifetime.
Click here for the full field draw for Thursday’s first round of the Fortinet Australian PGA Championship.
PGA Professionals have been celebrated for their extensive contribution to Australian golf throughout 2022 at a gala dinner held at Brisbane City Hall on Tuesday Night.
The national award-winners each having excelled in their own categories, they stood out in exceptionally strong fields of nominees.
General Manager of the PGA Membership and Education Department, Geoff Stewart praised all winners and thanked them for their ongoing service to the game.
“PGA Professionals are the heartbeat of golf in Australia,” he said. “Every day they help golfers to love the game and form an enduring connection to the sport.
“Our award winners have done a fantastic job right throughout the industry and it is great to have the chance to honour them and their contribution tonight.”
For his outstanding service as Director of Golf at the thriving Brisbane Golf Club, Joe Janison was named PGA National Club Professional of the Year.
Janison’s wide-ranging role sees him responsible for the management of all aspects of the club’s golf operations, as he delivers exceptional customer service and member experience. Having overcome extensive challenges, including course closures due to floods, Janison helped Brisbane Golf Club to achieve profound financial and non-financial success throughout 2022.
Driving increased junior and female participation, increased corporate days and even a member-travel experience service, Janison’s willingness to innovate ensures an outstanding offering for everyone at the Brisbane Golf Club.
By putting a premium on the relationship he has with the club’s thriving membership, Janison actively seeks feedback through regular surveys and member-engagement sessions. Ultimately, he credits this people-focussed approach for his success in the role.
“Our customer service standards are all about doing the small things exceptionally well,” Janison said. “This includes how we welcome members, our product knowledge and how we can help to resolve any problems that may arise.
“Together we can achieve excellence in everything we do.”
For the second year running, Grant Field of Pelican Waters Golf Club was named PGA National Coach of the Year – High Performance. Long-term coach of Cameron Smith, Field has helped Smith to remarkable success in 2022.
Headlined by a maiden Major championship victory at the 150th Open Championship, Smith climbed as high as No. 2 in the world rankings throughout the year.
Under Field’s guidance, Smith also broke new ground in golf, as he shot a PGA Tour record of 34-under par to start the year with a win at the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii. Making the most of his good form, the Queenslander followed it up with victory at THE PLAYERS Championship in March.
Additionally, Field is playing a driving role in helping to shape the next generation of Australia’s best players. Coach of Jed Morgan, who broke through to claim victory at the 2021 Fortinet Australian PGA Championship, Field helped Morgan to enjoy a consistent season; the twenty-two-year-old winning the ISPS HANDA PGA Tour of Australasia Order of Merit.
“I am very honoured to have the chance to coach some of Australia’s best golfers,” said Field. “Their outstanding performances allows me to promote the game further to a wider range of audiences.
“I am fortunate enough to spend a lot of time around a number of high-level coaches, so it is great to be immersed in that high-performance environment.”
Meanwhile, Des Shearer’s receipt of PGA National Management Professional of the Year comes three years in to his second five-year plan at Bunbury Golf Club.
Having already overseen the completion of key projects including an irrigation system upgrade, the introduction of an online golf retail store and the development of a membership retention program, Shearer continues to ensure Bunbury can offer a premium experience for all members and guests.
To that end, Shearer has driven profound growth in the number of rounds and competitions played, as well as total membership numbers, as golfers are attracted by the range of offerings and incentives he has instituted. Determined to offer a great service to non-golfers as well, Shearer has expanded the food and beverage offering at the club, to benefit the entire community.
“Innovation and strategic development have positively impacted on member and guest services at the club,” explained Shearer. “Everything we have done that has been successful will continue to grow in the future for the benefit of our members and the community.”
For John Collins of Brookwater Golf and Country Club, a tireless dedication to grow the game has been duly recognised with his receipt of PGA National Coach of the Year – Game Development.
Particularly prominent in junior golf, Collins runs a range of programs, both at Brookwater and with local partner schools. Together, these have seen him work with more than 5,000 juniors in a twelve-month period.
An outstanding contribution, he has also brought more than 400 women into the game through his Ladies Get Into Golf clinics. Conducted on Sundays to maximise exposure, Collins tailors his offering to ensure players of varying abilities leave with a sense of achievement and enjoy their time on the golf course.
“I strive to create a pathway where those who have never played before can move through all facets of the game and form an enduring relationship to golf,” Collins explained.
“Success for me is seeing many of my students continue playing the game and knowing that I was able to play a part in starting them on their journey.”
Tuesday also saw the celebration of Australia’s PGA Professionals working overseas; Duc Pham named the inaugural PGA of Australia International Member of the Year for his work growing the game in Vietnam.
Duc works in partnership with the Vietnam Golf Association to ensure that national training programs are developed and delivered so that the country has enough competent coaches to meet rising demand. An outstanding initiative, the program has certified more than 80 coaches since November 2021.
Additionally, Duc’s own success as a coach has seen him run free junior clinics designed to promote engagement and passion in Vietnam’s next generation. To that end, he also held a role as coach of the Vietnam National Golf team at the South East Asia Games.
Conscious of the role he can play as a PGA Professional, Duc is pleased to see golf becoming more and more popular in Vietnam.
“Vietnam is still developing a passion for golf, but it is certainly a fast-growing industry,” he said. “I believe that with the right programs we can develop better players and better coaching.
“It is one step at a time and golf in Vietnam has an exciting journey ahead.”
Tuesday night also provided the chance to honour the best of our PGA Associates, as Mitchell Smith from Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club, was named PGA Associate of the Year.
Smith, a third year Associate, was the standout recipient of the award this year, as he blends outstanding playing ability with particularly impressive academic results.
Smith is currently placed tenth nationally on the Titleist Footjoy Performance Rankings with an adjusted average of -0.36 and ranked ninth nationally in academics.
Due reward, Training Manager for the PGA of Australia, Stephanie Jamieson was pleased to see him recognised on Tuesday.
“Mitchell is a true role model for all Associates and a great example of what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance.”
PGA Professional Tybin Lawson was also recognised for his outstanding contribution to junior golf, named MyGolf Deliverer of the Year.
Lawson’s tireless dedication to junior golf over a number of years continues to help golf flourish on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula.
“For me, it’s all about getting numbers into the game,” he said. “I love to help get juniors into the sport and it is always heartening to see growing participation numbers through our programs
“I don’t do it alone, and I want to recognise the work of our whole team, this award is for them.”
PGA awards winners’ list:
Greg Norman Medal: Cameron Smith
ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia Player of the Year: Dimitrios Papadatos
SParms PGA Legends Tour Player of the Year: Andre Stolz
Margie Masters WPGA Tour Player of the Year: Hannah Green
PGA of Australia National Coach of the Year – High Performance: Grant Field
PGA of Australia National Coach of the Year – Game Development: John Collins
PGA of Australia National Club Professional of the Year: Joe Janison
PGA of Australia National Management Professional of the Year: Des Shearer
PGA of Australia International Member of the Year: Duc Pham
PGA of Australia National Associate of the Year: Mitchell Smith
MyGolf Deliverer of the Year: Tybin Lawson
Queensland’s Cameron Smith has been awarded the Greg Norman Medal for the second time in three years at the PGA Awards at Brisbane City Hall on Tuesday night.
Also victorious in 2020, Smith claimed Australian golf’s highest honour ahead of a stellar field, including the 2021 winner and 2022 Women’s US Open champion, Minjee Lee.
The PGA Awards also celebrates the extensive contribution of PGA Professionals who have achieved great success in their own endeavours throughout the industry, with Smith’s coach and Director of Coaching at Queensland’s Pelican Waters Golf Club, Grant Field, named PGA National Coach of the Year – High Performance, for the second year in a row.
Joining him, Joe Janison from The Brisbane Golf Club was awarded PGA National Club Professional of the Year for his outstanding service to the club and its members, while Brookwater Golf and Country Club’s John Collins won PGA National Coach of the Year – Game Development as he continues to grow engagement right throughout Queensland.
Des Shearer of Bunbury Golf Club was named PGA National Management Professional of the Year for his continued commitment to innovation, Queensland’s Mitchell Smith was named PGA Associate of the Year, while Duc Pham who is based in Vietnam, was awarded the inaugural PGA of Australia International Member of the Year.
A chance to celebrate Australian golf’s highest achievers both on and off the golf course, the PGA Awards also serves as the official launch of the 2022 Fortinet Australian PGA Championship, to be played at Royal Queensland Golf Club, starting on Thursday.
The Greg Norman Medal – Australian golf’s most prestigious award – is presented to Australia’s best male or female Tour Professional on the international stage. The winner is determined based on annual success across all professional tours.
Smith’s receipt of the Greg Norman Medal follows a career-best season. Headlined by a maiden Major victory at the 150th Open Championship, Smith climbed as high as No. 2 in the world rankings in 2022.
His strong string of performances also broke new ground in golf, as Smith shot a PGA Tour record of 34-under par to start the year with a win at the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Hawaii. Making the most of his good form, he followed it up with victory at THE PLAYERS Championship in March.
“I’ve got to thank my family first and foremost,” said Smith. “Mum and Dad gave up a lot for me to play golf.”
PGA of Australia CEO, Gavin Kirkman was pleased to celebrate Smith, recognising that his achievements formed part of a particularly successful year for Australian golf.
“We’re very proud of Cam as someone who is home-grown, authentic and incredibly skilful at what he does,” Kirkman said.
“It must have been a really close decision for this medal in 2022 because we also had Minjee Lee winning the US Women’s Open – the biggest tournament in women’s golf. But Cam’s year was absolutely incredible.
“It’s fair to say that by performing on the biggest stages in world golf, he and other players like Minjee Lee, have given golf in this country an incredible shot in the arm. The national participation program MyGolf has experienced record numbers thanks to the performances of Cam and Minjee, and we’re also seeing golf continue to boom in lessons, membership and how many people are hitting golf balls around the country.”
The judges for the Greg Norman Medal were PGA of Australia Chair Rodger Davis, WPGA Tour Life-Member Karrie Webb, WPGA Tour President Julia Boland, PGA Life Member Peter O’Malley and PGA Board member Ian Baker-Finch.
Judging of the Greg Norman Medal is based on a combination of objective and subjective criterion, with the panel taking many factors into consideration, including results and rankings.
There were more winners on the night with Vic Open winner Dimitrios Papadatos honoured after a breakthrough season, named ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia Player of the Year. Joining him in the Tour category, was Hannah Green who was awarded the Margie Masters Player of the Year following two fantastic wins at the Vic Open and TPS Murray River as the first women to win a mixed-gender event on a major tour. Evergreen Queenslander, Andre Stolz, claimed the Sparms Legends Tour Player of the Year.
PGA awards winners’ list:
Greg Norman Medal: Cameron Smith
ISPS Handa PGA Tour of Australasia Player of the Year: Dimitrios Papadatos
SParms PGA Legends Tour Player of the Year: Andre Stolz
Margie Masters WPGA Tour Player of the Year: Hannah Green
PGA of Australia National Coach of the Year – High Performance: Grant Field
PGA of Australia National Coach of the Year – Game Development: John Collins
PGA of Australia National Club Professional of the Year: Joe Janison
PGA of Australia National Management Professional of the Year: Des Shearer
PGA of Australia International Member of the Year: Duc Pham
PGA of Australia National Associate of the Year: Mitchell Smith
MyGolf Deliverer of the Year: Tybin Lawson
