Golf Leaders Honoured in 2026 Australia Day Awards

The Australian golf community is celebrating a prestigious start to the year as two of its most influential figures, Mr Alexander Sinclair “Sandy” Dawson OAM and Mr Andrew Leigh “Langers” Langford-Jones OAM, have been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the 2026 Australia Day Honours List.

The awards recognize their profound impact on the sport, ranging from elite international governance to the meticulous delivery of professional tournaments.

Sandy Dawson OAM: A Global Ambassador for the Game

Sandy Dawson, a stalwart of The Royal Sydney Golf Club, has been a defining figure in golf administration for decades. His recognition highlights a career that bridged local club leadership with the highest echelons of international golf.

• International Landmark: In 2013–14, Dawson became only the second Australian in history to serve as Captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, representing the sport’s global home.
• Club Stewardship: At home, he served as both Captain and President of The Royal Sydney Golf Club, overseeing the growth of one of Australia’s premier sporting institutions.
• A Lifelong Legacy: A member of the R&A since 1974 and a former Australian Universities champion, Dawson is lauded for his “respect for tradition and deep understanding of the sport’s values,” according to Golf Australia CEO James Sutherland.

Andrew Langford-Jones OAM: The Architect of Modern Tournaments

Affectionately known as “Langers,” Andrew Langford-Jones has been the “steady hand” behind the scenes of professional golf in Australia for nearly forty years.

• Operational Excellence: As a senior tournament official, Langford-Jones has been responsible for the complex “ecosystem” of professional events—from rules and scoring to television coordination and field management.
• Innovation in Play: He was a key driver behind modern formats like the World Super 6 and the Surf Coast Knockout, concepts designed to engage contemporary audiences while maintaining the integrity of the game.
• A Peer-Respected Career: PGA of Australia CEO Gavin Kirkman noted that Langford-Jones’ work has been essential in strengthening the professional game, supporting everyone from the world’s top players to local volunteers.

Broader Recognition Across the Greens

The 2026 Honours List also shines a light on many who serve the game at the grassroots and community levels. Notable among them is Mr Phillip Brian Cooper AM, who was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his significant service to the Indigenous community, including his leadership with the Indigenous Golf Association of Victoria.

Other dedicated club leaders recognized include Stephen Mark Day OAM (Victor Harbor Golf Club), Johannes Maria Iriks OAM (Kwinana Golf Club), and Thomas William Moss OAM (Khancoban Golf Club), whose decades of volunteerism—from groundskeeping to board leadership—represent the heartbeat of Australian golf.

“Their contribution has strengthened the game, from the club level through to major events and international leadership.” — James Sutherland, Golf Australia CEO

Recipients are expected to receive their official insignia at investiture ceremonies held at Government House in the coming months.

SOURCE: Golf.com.au