Gerard Wilkinson was first elected to the NRDGA Executive Committee in February 2011 having served the previous 2 years as the JPO at the Ballina Golf and Sports Club. Initially, only 7 NRDGA Clubs played host to Junior Open Days and in 2011 this number was increased to 10.  Participants were encouraged from 5 hole “beginners”, 9-hole “Cadets” to 18-hole Junior boys and girls.
A full schedule of junior events across 14 host clubs was established in 2012 and these all continue to the current day.
Participation in these Junior Open Days increased due to Gerard’s encouragement and organisation, with over 1,000 rounds of Junior golf being recorded in 2019. Gerard initially organised “elite” NRDGA junior participation in significant JNJG Sydney/Newcastle based events which required “minibus” travel and supervision of players across a week of activities. Ultimately, Gerard encouraged a structure whereby parents and players were financially supported by the NRDGA to attend and participate in these events.

Gerard established the “Junior Order of Merit” concept within the NRDGA which was unique within golf
across NSW. Cadet and Junior participants were awarded cumulative points across all 14 host events with the ultimate (gross and nett) voucher winners presented at the season final event. These vouchers were restricted to being claimed at “NRDGA Pro Shops” providing an excellent connection for the Juniors to their home club facilities.

It is estimated that over 700 individual players passed through the NRDGA Junior Open day structure in the last 10 years and whilst many of these boys and girls will progress to weekend competition participating at their home club or playing socially with their parents and friends, a few have progressed to full PGA status.

Whilst Gerard’s primary focus over the last 12 – 14 years has been the promotion of Junior Golf, he regards the ongoing relationships he established with parents as an equally rewarding outcome from these activities.  For the last 2 years, Gerard has fulfilled the role of “NRDGA Operations Manager” during which his responsibilities expanded to include the organization of Senior Men’s/Mixed events and maintenance of the NRDGA web site.

Gerard has been a driving force in encouraging junior golf in the NRDGA through his organisation and
communication skills which he has brought forward to the Operations Managers position.
Motion: That Gerard Wilkinson is elected as a Life Member of the NRDGA.

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