Three years ago, Golf NSW employed nine Regional Managers to provide face-to-face service to clubs and increase participation in regions across New South Wales.
Gary Begg was selected to oversee the NSW western and far western region, an expansive area covering over 560,000 square kilometres. With over 40 years of experience as a PGA Member, including completing his apprenticeship at St Michaels Golf Club with Cyril Trist, Begg eagerly embraced the challenge of boosting participation in the Western Region, which had faced numerous natural disasters such as droughts, floods, mice plagues, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Country golf clubs often struggle with dwindling volunteer numbers, low player participation, and in some cases, keeping their doors open.
Clubs in the area, including Coolah, Dunedoo, Binnaway, and others, saw an increase in junior participation from one to 160 juniors attending various golf courses on weekends. The ladies’ numbers also grew from five beginners to over 80 new ladies introduced to the game, resulting in increased club memberships.
Plans are in motion for ‘Ladies on the Move,’ where beginner ladies will travel to different clubs to meet new friends, have fun, and enjoy the game together. Additionally, six Junior Golf Open gala days are set for 2024, attracting youngsters as young as five to play 3-9 holes on shortened courses.
The future looks promising for the west and far west regions, thanks to the efforts of Golf NSW and CEO Stuart Fraser in expanding the game of golf in all parts of New South Wales.
