Australian PGA Championship Returns to Sydney's Lakes Golf Club

Championship Returns to Sydney After 28 Years

The BMW Australian PGA Championship is set to return to Sydney for the first time in 28 years, with The Lakes Golf Club hosting the event from November 26–29. This significant tournament, co-sanctioned with the DP World Tour, draws a strong field of both local and international professionals.

The return to the New South Wales capital marks a notable moment for Australian golf, bringing one of the nation's premier championships back to a major metropolitan area after a lengthy absence. Golf fans in Sydney will have the opportunity to experience top-tier professional golf live, as the championship concludes the domestic season for many players.

Strong Field Features Top Australian and International Talent

An impressive roster of players is confirmed for the championship, featuring some of Australia's most prominent golfers. Lucas Herbert, who secured two victories on the LIV Tour and a top-10 finish at The Open Championship earlier this year, leads the Australian contingent.

He is joined by veteran Adam Scott, regarded as a consistent force on the international circuit, and Min Woo Lee, currently Australia’s highest-ranked player. The field also includes 2022 Open champion Cam Smith and the 2024 BMW Australian PGA winner, Elvis Smylie.

Beyond the local stars, the tournament welcomes former Australian Open champion Cam Davis, Canadian Corey Conners, Spain’s Josele Ballester, and Presidents Cup International Team captain Geoff Ogilvy, adding considerable depth to the competition.

Smylie Returns as Defending Champion, Puig Won in 2025

Elvis Smylie returns to The Lakes Golf Club as the reigning 2024 BMW Australian PGA Championship winner, having secured his most significant professional victory at Royal Queensland two years ago. Since that win, Smylie has seen a rapid ascent, including individual and team titles with Ripper GC on LIV Golf in 2026.

After being sidelined for much of the current year due to a rib injury, Smylie made his competitive return at the DP World Tour’s BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Golf Club in mid-September. Spain’s David Puig claimed the BMW Australian PGA Championship title in 2025, further illustrating the international appeal and competitive nature of the event.

Dabble Party Hole Moves to The Lakes' 15th

The popular Dabble Party Hole, a feature known for its lively atmosphere, will find a new home at The Lakes Golf Club for the 2026 championship. Previously located at Royal Queensland for the past two years, this year's Party Hole will be positioned on the 176-metre, par-3 15th hole.

This initiative aims to blend music, entertainment, and professional golf, creating a vibrant, family-friendly environment. Antonia Beggs, PGA of Australia General Manager, Major Events and Operations, stated that the move to the 15th at The Lakes provides a fantastic new setting for this exciting experience.

Tickets are currently available for two hospitality options, the Champions Lounge and Champions Deck, offering prime viewing points for the action.

Strengthening the Asia-Pacific Golf Calendar

The return of the BMW Australian PGA Championship to Sydney, co-sanctioned with the DP World Tour, strengthens the overall golf calendar in the Asia-Pacific region.

For golf enthusiasts and travellers from Southeast Asia and other parts of the continent, this event provides a premier opportunity to witness high-level competition featuring both established stars and emerging talents. The presence of players who also compete on the LIV Golf circuit, alongside DP World Tour professionals, offers a diverse viewing experience.

This tournament's profile, combined with Sydney's appeal as a travel destination, could stimulate increased golf tourism to Australia in late November, encouraging fans to combine spectating with playing rounds at other courses in the area.