More than 60 golf professionals took to the championship layout at Ocean Shores Country Club yesterday for the PGA Open Match, with 16 groups teeing off between 8:30am and 10:30am in near-perfect conditions.

Bathed in sunshine and played on a pristinely presented course, the event delivered an exceptional standard of golf from start to finish. With calm conditions and true greens, the stage was set for low scoring – and the field did not disappoint.

Billy Flanagan of Coffs Harbour and Jack Wright of Coolangatta/Tweed Heads emerged as joint winners, each carding an outstanding 69 (-3). Both players displayed remarkable consistency across the round, navigating the championship course with precision to finish atop a strong professional field.

Our own Diarmuid Harrington also delivered an impressive performance, posting a 73 (+1) to finish equal fifth – a commendable result in a field stacked with talent. Harrington’s steady round ensured he remained in contention throughout the day and capped off a proud showing on home turf.

The highlight of the tournament came at the 15th hole, where Luke Elliott produced a moment of magic with a spectacular hole-in-one. The ace drew cheers from across the course and will no doubt be replayed in clubhouse conversations for some time to come.

From the early morning tee shots to the final putts dropping mid-afternoon, it was an incredible day all round – pristine course, perfect weather, and top-tier professional golf on display. The PGA Open Match once again showcased the quality and depth of talent competing on one of the region’s premier championship courses.