Gary Thomas has announced his decision to step down as Chief Executive Officer of GolfWA at the end of the year, bringing a close to a transformative 15-year tenure with the organisation.
Thomas, who will remain in the role until December to oversee a smooth transition, first joined the WA Golf Association (WAGA) as its Junior Development Officer. His career included stints as Director of Golf at Singapore Island Country and General Manager at both Royal Perth and Lake Karrinyup before he returned to WAGA as Chief Executive in November 2010.
A Legacy of Growth and Unification
Thomas’s most significant achievement was his oversight of the long-planned merger between WAGA and Women’s Golf Western Australia, which led to the creation of GolfWA in 2011.
He departs with the sport in Western Australia in a demonstrably healthy state. GolfWA reports participation rates at an all-time high, club membership at levels not seen for decades, and increased club support via the organisation’s Regional Club Support Officers. The system has also successfully produced several players now shining on the global stage.
“I am very proud of what GolfWA has achieved across all our areas of responsibility – participation, game development, club support, government relations, high performance and tournaments,” Thomas said in a statement.
He also highlighted the impact of the WA Golf Foundation, launched in 2012, which has raised significant funds to support junior golf and other initiatives across the state.
New Horizons and Collocation
Thomas’s final months in the role coincide with several key milestones, including the completion of the first year of the Australian Golf State Service Agreement with Golf Australia, which he noted has “provided considerable benefits to our operations and to golf in WA as a whole.”
Furthermore, GolfWA has just completed a move into its new office at SportHQ, a significant development that will see the PGA join them in October.
“This will mark the first time the amateur and professional governing bodies will operate under one roof,” Thomas added.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on his time, Thomas expressed gratitude for the strong support GolfWA has enjoyed from affiliated clubs, members, the State Government, Healthway, corporate partners, and the staff and Board members he has worked alongside.
“However, after 15 years I believe it time to hand the baton for someone else to drive GolfWA over the next exciting period,” he concluded.
The departing Chief Executive is expected to spend more time on the golf course himself once he steps down. The process to recruit his successor is now underway.
