The Greg Norman Medal Dinner also saw the introduction of a new honour with a Life Member being elevated to Immortal status.

The inaugural honouree was Peter Thomson, one of Australia’s all time greatest Professionals.

"Am I not a luck man! Most people have nice things said about them at their funerals when it is too late for their own enjoyment, but you’ve all jumped the gun as it were and given this lovely tribute for me to hear," said Thomson.

"Now to be serious, I thank you all sincerely. Peter O’Malley, Chairman, Brian Thorburn, CEO all of the board members of the PGA. To Peter Senior and every member of our Association."

"I am most truly thrilled to be recognised and honoured by my peers of this great Association."

While his playing prowess has been strongly documented, his illustrious career featuring five Open Championship victories amongst 89 professional tournament wins has made him a household name for almost 70 years.

However it is his dedication to his Association that had the greatest impact on the industry. He was Chairman of the PGA for 32 years, which remains the longest tenure in this PGA’s history.

During his time Thomson was instrumental in establishing Australia’s most successful pro-amateur teams event the Holden Scramble which this year celebrates its 25^th anniversary and 1 millionth participant.

"As most know, the PGA has been a huge part of my life since I was 19 years old.

"Success came slowly but sweetly and I would like to say in fairness, that I have always felt that I never worked a day in my life, such was the pleasure and challenge this wonderful game of golf provided.

"To become President of the PGA in the Sixties was a huge thrill and my 32 years in that role was tremendously rewarding. At last I felt I was giving something back to an Association that had given me so much," added Thomson.

"Life has been very kind to me and I’ve much to be thankful for.

"Finally, I would like to say something about the unsung heroes of our PGA. They are the men and women who run our Pro Shops at clubs and courses around our country.

"They teach and toil for long hours and nurture this splendid game in the young and old who pass their way.

"Without their dedication where would our game be?"