Golf Programs Australia honoured with top community award, eyes future growth

Mayor Rosanna Natoli presents the Best Sunshine Coast Community Service or Organisation of the Year award to Darrell Dalton.

Golf Programs Australia Inc. (GPAI), a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to creating inclusive sporting opportunities, has been recognised as the Best Sunshine Coast Community Service or Organisation of the Year at the Sunshine Coast Community Gala and Awards. 

The award highlights GPAI’s significant impact through its golf programs for individuals with disabilities, promoting inclusion and breaking isolation in the community.

GPAI’s Founder and President, Darrell Dalton, accepted the award alongside Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli. “This award is recognition of the contributions made by our volunteers, staff, and participants – this is your award!” Dalton said during the ceremony.

The organisation also reached the finals in the Best Disability Service, Recreational or Sporting Program category, further underscoring its efforts to provide tailored sport, training, and employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Established in 2014, GPAI runs a successful weekly golf program at the Glenview Par 3 Course and operates a charity golf shop, providing employment opportunities through its Social Enterprise program. Dalton now hopes to use the momentum from the accolade to achieve his ultimate dream: a purpose-built golf facility to expand their reach and create further opportunities.

“This award gives us recognition from where we started to where we are now,” Dalton said. “Our goal is a facility of our own, which would enable us to offer even greater support and opportunities for people with disabilities.”

The award comes at an exciting time for GPAI, as they celebrate their recent move to the Glenview Par 3 Course, after a change in ownership forced them to leave their previous venue on short notice. PGA Professional Wade Hooper welcomed GPAI to Glenview with open arms, and Dalton described the move as essential in sustaining their ongoing efforts.

“Our mission to establish a permanent, purpose-built golf facility is key,” said Dalton, reflecting on the challenges and triumphs the group has faced. “We run 48 weeks a year, and the recognition from the Sunshine Coast community is pushing us closer to that goal.”

The community’s increasing awareness of GPAI’s mission has led to growing support from local businesses and golfing organisations, with clubs such as Pacific Golf Club and Caloundra Golf Club donating equipment to support GPAI’s operations.

Dalton remains optimistic about the future, thanks to the growing recognition and support from various sectors, including the PGA of Australia and Golf Australia.

• To learn more about GPAI and contribute to their cause, visit gpai.org.au.