Past GolfWA Chief Executive Gary Thomas has been formally recognised for his contribution to the sport at the WA Golf Industry Awards.
Thomas was presented with the Distinguished Service Award at Friday night’s Gala Dinner following his 15-year stint as GolfWA Chief Executive, which concluded with his retirement in December 2025.
A former teacher, Thomas first became active in the WA golf sector during the 1990s when he served as Development Officer for the Graham Marsh Junior Golf Foundation.
This was followed by a spell as Director of Golf at the Singapore Island Country Club before a return to Perth to take on General Manager roles at Royal Perth and, later, Lake Karrinyup.
In late 2010, Thomas returned to state golf administration and was tasked with completing the amalgamation of the separate men’s and women’s organising bodies. These merged to become GolfWA, with Thomas its first Chief Executive.
In announcing Thomas as the recipient of the award, WA Golf Industry Awards Committee Chair Brendon Allanby said: “Gary has had a long and influential career in the golf industry, spanning more than three decades.
“His contribution to golf administration and the broader golfing community stands as a testament to a lifetime of service to the game.”
Thomas, who admitted that the award came as a complete surprise, paid tribute to the staff and Board members he had worked with during his tenure at GolfWA.
He also outlined what he believed the organisation’s key achievements had been during his 15 years at the helm, namely: –
- The formation of GolfWA
- The creation of the WA Golf Foundation
- Strengthening ties with regional golf clubs
- Dealing with the impact of COVID-19
- Transitioning into a State Services Agreement with Golf Australia
Thomas received his award from GolfWA Chair Emma Elliott, while his wife, Denise, was also present to celebrate his success.
Gary received the Distinguished Service Award from GolfWA Chair Emma Elliott
“Gary’s commitment to GolfWA has been nothing short of extraordinary. His leadership, integrity and unwavering passion have strengthened our game and our community,” said Elliott.
“We are deeply grateful for Gary’s years of service. His contribution has shaped the organisation we are today, and his legacy will continue to guide us well into the future.”
In total, 21 awards were handed out on the night in front of a packed audience of nearly 550 attendees. Read about all the winners from the WA Golf Industry Awards here.
In the video below, Gary discusses what he believes are GolfWA’s key achievements from his time as Chief Executive.
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