Tom Major is settling into his new role of golf pro at the Gunnedah Golf Club, after starting on Tuesday.
Tom is also preparing to move into his new home in town this coming Monday, after travelling from Coffs Harbour for his new venture.
Gunnedah’s new golf pro spent a few days at the club last month with his predecessor Luke Ryan, whose final day on the job was last Sunday before he moved to Lismore for a similar role at Lismore Workers Golf Club.
Tom’s new role is his first as a head golf pro, following other positions in the industry.
“Every job has its challenges but I’m excited by it,” he said.
Having taken up golf at the age of 10 in his hometown of Coffs Harbour, Tom was a trainee golf professional at Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club in 2017 and 2018.
Tom was also involved in golf operations at Sanctuary Cove, with roles including coaching and working in the pro shop.
Returning to his home region, Tom worked at the Coffs Harbour driving range before becoming the manager at the same place.
More recently, Tom was prepared to make another move when a vacancy arose in Gunnedah.
Tom said he was keen to work with people of all ages and abilities, while he was passionate about junior golf.
“I’m keen to focus on the junior side which Luke has developed, and keep pushing that as much as we can,” he said.
“Juniors are vital for the future of any club.”
Tom’s early impressions of the Gunnedah golf course have been favourable, as he said “the greens are good” while it had a “country course” look and feel about it.
“I think it holds its own pretty well,” he said.
As for what he enjoys so much about golf, Tom said “meeting people from all walks of life” and “the social aspect”.
“One day it can be the easiest game in the world, and the next day you can’t hit the middle to save yourself,” he said.
“You’re always learning, and trying to get better.”
Tom said his career highlight was winning the Norfolk Island Pro-Am Classic in 2023.
