Victoria’s City of Maribyrnong Council has been named the winner of the Local Government Recognition Award in the 2026 Golf Australia National Awards of Excellence for its efforts to encourage participation in the sport across culturally diverse communities.
Through the Active Maribyrnong program, Council partnered with Golf Australia, Westgate Golf Club and Medway Golf Club to deliver golf sessions using modified equipment and non-traditional formats in parks and open spaces across the municipality. The approach was designed to challenge traditional perceptions of golf as costly, male-dominated and requiring a high level of skill, barriers that can be particularly significant for women and culturally diverse communities.
The Maribyrnong Girls Can golf sessions reached capacity, with Get Into Golf registrations filled within 48 hours.
The Council says it recognised that traditional perceptions of golf could create barriers to participation, particularly for women and culturally diverse communities.
Mayor, Mohamed Semra said the initiative has changed the way Council views golf as a community asset.
“This initiative has shown us that golf is more than a traditional club-based sport, it’s a valuable community asset that can support participation, connection, and wellbeing for people of all backgrounds,” he said.
Council says it will work in partnership with local golf clubs to explore a sustainable Get Into Golf program delivered regularly in open spaces across the local government area.
Now in its second year, the Golf Australia National Awards of Excellence recognise clubs, venues, partners and individuals who are setting new standards across the game. The 2026 winners span seven states and territories, from remote Arnhem Land to inner-city Melbourne, reflecting the depth and diversity of leadership across Australian golf.
Golf Australia CEO, James Sutherland said the breadth and quality of this year’s winners reflects the extraordinary momentum behind the game.
“The 2026 National Awards of Excellence showcase the depth of leadership, commitment and ingenuity happening across golf in Australia,” Mr Sutherland said.
“What stands out this year is the diversity of these stories. They demonstrate that golf is a powerful vehicle for community connection, inclusion, health and environmental stewardship.
“Together, these winners represent a blueprint for the future of our sport, one that is more welcoming, more innovative and more deeply embedded in the communities it serves.”
