Top golfers to tee off ona the Northern Rivers in hopes of qualifying for NSW Open

THE Northern Rivers will host some of the best golfers from across the state with a quality field to compete in the first round qualifying tournaments for the 2026 Ford NSW Open Championship.

Lismore Workers Golf Club and Teven Valley Golf Course will welcome leading professional and amateur golfers as part of the series, with players chasing a spot in November’s NSW Open in the Hunter Valley.

The first round qualifier is set for Lismore from 26 to 28 July, beginning with a pro-am on Sunday before two tournament rounds on Monday and Tuesday.

Teven Valley will follow immediately after, with a pro-am on 29 July and tournament rounds on 30 and 31 July.

The six-event qualifying series travels across NSW until September, with each tournament offering a $50,000 prize pool.

The top three non-exempt finishers at each event, whether professional or amateur, will earn direct entry into the 2026 Ford NSW Open.

Golf NSW manager of tournaments Nicole Martin said the Northern Rivers remained an important stop on the qualifying circuit.

“The Regional Qualifiers give players from across the region a genuine opportunity to compete for a place at the NSW Open,” she said.

“Events like this don’t just matter to golfers; they bring visitors, activity and attention to the regions that host them.”

Lismore has long been regarded as one of the Northern Rivers’ premier 18-hole courses, while Teven Valley has attracted national attention since its 2017 redevelopment, led by Australian golf great Craig Parry.

Director and head professional at Lismore Workers Golf Club Luke Ryan said the club was excited to again host the prestigious event.

 

“We have a brand-new greenkeeper, Dave Hobday, who is helping build a culture here where nothing is too hard, and we have an outstanding field of players coming to Lismore,” he said.

“We are very lucky to have Lismore City Council and Golf NSW on board, and their support helps make events like this possible.

“Moving forward, junior golf is also a real focus for us in Lismore, so this is a great chance for young and up-and-coming players to come along, watch the professionals up close and be inspired by where the game can take them.”

Mayor Steve Krieg said the event is becoming a major drawcard on the yearly sporting calendar.

“It’s great to welcome this event back to Lismore. It brings players, officials and visitors to our city, which means more people staying, eating and spending locally, while showcasing everything our region has to offer,” he said.

“It’s also another opportunity to showcase Lismore as a thriving events destination, with the facilities and hospitality to host these high-quality competitions.

“Thanks to the club, their staff and volunteers for the dedication to preparing the course and facilities. Their efforts play a key role in attracting events like this, delivering a fantastic experience for competitors and visitors.”