Maleny golf course manager wins prestigious green gong

By Richard Owen

The Maleny Golf Club’s Course and Infrastructure Manager Mick McCombe has won the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association’s (ASTMA) prestigious Claude Crockford Sustainability and Environmental Award.

The award announced at ASTMA’s 2025 annual conference dinner in Sydney on June 23, comes as members prepare to celebrate 10 years since the Sunshine Coast hinterland club opened officially to the public in July 2015.

Maleny Golf Club President Doug Evans said McCombe’s innovative practices and leadership had set an industry benchmark, earning him one of the most coveted honours in Australian turf management.

“From implementing resource-efficient irrigation systems and promoting native biodiversity, to recycling, safety and other environmental initiatives, Mick’s commitment to sustainability has been woven into every aspect of our course development and management,” Mr Evans said.

Maleny’s 18-hole golf course, encompassing two fresh-water wetlands, is bordered by the pristine Obi Obi Creek and been developed on sensitive community-owned land under lease from the Sunshine Coast Council.

With ecological accountability now more important than ever, this national award recognises an outstanding commitment to sustainable turf management and environmental excellence.

Named in honour of the late Claude Crockford - a trailblazer in environmental stewardship and long-time curator of Royal Melbourne Golf Club - the award celebrates those who carry forward his legacy of sustainability and respect for the natural landscape.

McCombe’s work at the community-based public course over the past 11 years has been nothing short of exemplary, including establishing Maleny Golf Club as one of the first six clubs globally to implement the Epar Connect 2.0 Audubon Certification program.

“This award is really not about me, but a reflection of the entire team and vision of the club at Maleny,” Mr McCombe said.

“We’re all very proud to be stewards of this land and to create a golfing experience that respects the environment we’re so fortunate to work in every day.”

Along with the prestigious title, Mick receives a $2500 bursary which may be used toward further education or an ASTMA-approved study tour - providing an opportunity to continue his development and share best practices with turf professionals around the country and abroad.

For more information about Maleny Golf Club, the course and membership options visit the website: www.malenygolfclub.com.au

Mr McCombe “This award is really not about me, but a reflection of the entire team and vision of the club at Maleny.”