Metropolitan and Regional Champions Shine at Victorian Golf Industry Awards

The best of Victoria’s golf industry, from metropolitan powerhouses to regional champions, were celebrated at the annual Victorian Golf Industry Awards held last Thursday night at Southern Golf Club. The ceremony showcased the industry’s health and breadth, honouring clubs, professionals, and volunteers for outstanding achievements.

The night’s premier club recognitions, the Most Outstanding Club, Facility or Place to Play awards, saw a split between city and country: Devilbend Golf Club took the Metropolitan title. At the same time, Warrnambool Golf Club was recognised as the best Regional facility. This strong regional showing highlighted excellence across the state.

Driving success in participation, Barwon Valley Golf Club continued its winning streak by being named Get Into Golf – Venue of the Year, mirroring their national success. Maroondah Golf was celebrated as the MyGolf powered by Ripper GC Venue of the Year, demonstrating the growth of junior and beginner programs. The Most Outstanding Facility – Off Course award went to the Morack Swing Factory.

Professionals and Turf Managers Recognised

The expertise of the state’s professionals was a central theme of the night. Luke Bleumink of Rosanna Golf Club was named the top PGA Club Professional of the Year. In coaching, Brandon Rave (Metropolitan Golf Club), coach to several Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia stars, secured the PGA Coach of the Year – High Performance award, while Scott McDermott (PGA Academy) was recognised for Game Development.

In course management, Leigh Yanner of The National Golf Club received the Victorian Golf Course Superintendents Association Superintendents Recognition Award for his three decades in the industry, and Zac Amer from Port Fairy Golf Links was named Apprentice of the Year.

Hall of Fame and Industry Service

The event paid tribute to those who have made lasting contributions to the sport. Golf legend Robert Allenby, a dominant force in world golf, and turf management pioneer Graeme Grant were both acknowledged for their services to the game in their home state. They were two of the individuals inducted into the Victorian Golf Hall of Fame during the ceremony.

In club operations, Brad Robb from Southern Golf Club took home the Golf Management Australia Excellence in Management Award, and Catherine Hirth was acknowledged as GMA Club Employee of the Year for her remarkable 38 years of service to both Royal Melbourne and Yarra Yarra golf clubs.

The vital role of events was also recognised, with the celebrity-packed Portsea Golf Club winning Metropolitan Pro-Am of the Year, and Gardiners Run Golf Course winning the PGA Legends Tour Event of the Year. Axedale Golf Club was named the Regional Pro-Am of the Year.

2025 Victorian Golf Industry Award Winners

SOURCE: Golf Australia