The inaugural Greg Norman Medal gala dinner saw members of the professional golf circuit, corporate world, government and golf community gather to celebrate the achievements of both Tournament and Vocational PGA Professionals.

Led by the award’s namesake Greg Norman, a host of Australian sporting and social personalities including, Ricky Ponting, Kerri-Anne Kennerley, Ian Baker – Finch, Wayne Grady and Graham Marsh arrived on the green carpet in this historic milestone for Australian golf. Charlie Earp, Norman’s former coach and one of the world’s foremost golf coaches, was also in attendance.

Jason Day wrote his name into the history books becoming the first player to have his name written alongside the prestigious award. Appearing via video link to a cheering crowd Day was humbled to have been awarded such a high honour.  

Complementing the pinnacle award a number of domestic awards were also handed out.

Matt Millar, who finishing runner-up at the Coca-Cola Queensland PGA Championship in February before winning his first PGA Tour of Australasia title at the Holden New Zealand PGA Championship in March, took home the 2015 PGA Tour of Australasia Player of the Year. While Su Oh, who secured her first Professional victory at the RACV Ladies Masters in February, won 2015 ALPG Player of the Year.

The night also saw Jarrod Lyle honoured, receiving the PGA TOUR’s Courage Award by Ian Baker-Finch after overcoming two battles with acute myeloid leukemia.

A number of awards were also given to recognising the effort, dedication and contribution of Vocational Professionals to their golf club or facility, members and guests, programs and events. Vocational Professionals play an integral role in servicing those who hit the fairways each year.

Rod Pampling was on hand to present the National Trainee of the Year award, which is presented to the leading Trainee across all year levels. The award was won by Caboolture Golf Club’s Rick Coleman who received his award alongside 2014 National Trainee of the Year winner, Mark Alison, who had been unable to receive his honour previously due to conflicting schedules throughout 2014.

The 2015 National Club Professional of the Year award, presented by PGA Chairman Mark Gibson, was a tie between Rich River Golf Club’s Richard Caiolfa and Ian Pritchard from Mt Osmond Golf Club.

Gibson also presented the 2015 National Teaching Professional of the Year award, which was awarded to Stuart Leong from the Albert Park Driving Range.

The Greg Norman Medal dinner, which is proudly supported by the City of Gold Coast, tees off the PGA’s flagship tournament, the Australian PGA Championship, at RACV Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast from 3-6 December.