The GolfWA Board has appointed Arron Minchin as Chief Executive, effective from January 1, 2026.
Minchin will take over from GolfWA’s long-serving Chief Executive Gary Thomas, who earlier this year announced his decision to step down after 15 years in the role.
Minchin (pictured above) brings more than 20 years’ leadership experience across WA business, local and State government, regional development, and sport and recreation.
Previous roles included Director of Community Services at the City of Karratha and Director of Industry Development & Participation at the Department of Sport and Recreation.
Minchin is currently GolfWA’s Government Relations Manager, where he has worked closely with WA clubs and government to advocate for the community, environmental and economic benefits of golf, including supporting investment in facilities and major events.
A passionate and long-time golfer, Minchin has played the game for more than 30 years and has been a member of six country golf clubs across WA in Karratha, Kununurra, Newman, Port Hedland, Lake Grace and Narrogin.
GolfWA Chair Emma Elliott said the appointment followed a comprehensive recruitment process that attracted more than 60 high-quality candidates, from across the country and reflected the Board’s focus on continuity, momentum and long-term sustainability.
“This appointment marks an important step forward as we build on a strong period of stability and look to the future,” Elliott said.
“Arron brings deep experience across government, sport and industry, along with a proven ability to build trusted relationships and demonstrate strong commercial leadership. These strengths will be critical as GolfWA continues to grow its impact and support clubs and members across Western Australia.
“The Board would also like to acknowledge the significant contributions of Gary Thomas, who leaves GolfWA and golf in the state of Western Australia in its strongest ever position. His leadership over the past 15 years and has built a solid foundation for our next phase of development.”
Minchin said he was honoured to lead GolfWA through its next chapter. “Having worked closely with WA clubs, the golfing community and all levels of government, I’ve seen first-hand the opportunity to strengthen the game by backing clubs, supporting facility investment and growing participation pathways across the state.
“I’m honoured to take on this role and to work with our clubs, volunteers, partners and government to ensure GolfWA is well positioned for long-term, sustainable growth, so we can continue to get more West Australians playing more golf.”
Minchin will commence as Chief Executive on January 1, 2026, following a handover period with Gary Thomas, who will step down at the end of 2025.
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