Travel restrictions and health fears because of COVID-19 has meant the Outback Queensland Masters has been rescheduled to 2021, bringing hope for the future prosperity of Outback communities.
“It has been a decision we delayed as we investigated opportunities to stage the event,” said Luke Bates, Queensland State Senior Manager, Golf Australia.
“Events like the Outback Queensland Masters are a lifeblood for many Outback Queensland communities as they create an important economic boost for local businesses and services.
“But there is a silver lining, and we are pleased to announce the Outback Queensland Masters will be on at the same time and locations in June and July, 2021, including the million-dollar hole-in-one challenge.
“We will offer patrons who have already purchased player and spectator passes the opportunity to transfer their tickets to the 2021, or receive a full refund for all monies paid.
“The golf series will include five $10,000 hole-in-one challenges in Biloela, Charleville, Quilpie, Blackall and Hughenden, culminating in Longreach for the million dollar hole-in-one challenge in June and July 2021.
“It really will be the ultimate 2021 golfing adventure as Australia’s most remote golf series spans an epic 1600 kilometres across Queensland’s Outback.
“The Outback Queensland Masters team is keen to keep our enthusiastic followers engaged through these coming months with online golf tips for inside your home via our Facebook and Instagram channels.”
Amateur golfers and travellers are encouraged to adventure west of the Great Divide in 2021 through the townships from Biloela and the sandstone wonders through to the channel country of Charleville, Quilpie and on to Blackall, Hughenden and the heart of the outback, Longreach.
The event will be a six-part golf series across remote locations in Outback Queensland. Staged at local golf clubs in each town, the first five are two-day events staged on Saturday and Sunday. The program will kick off with breakfast on the Saturday morning at the local golf club, followed by tournament play.
The competition includes nine holes each day with breakfast and lunch included on both days. Saturday evening is dinner under the stars with award-winning performers from comedy to cabaret to multi-piece bands.
The tournament wraps up in Longreach with a three-day event from Friday through Sunday. The two-day format will continue on Friday and Saturday with dinner under the stars on Friday night. The tournament culminates on Sunday with the million-dollar hole-in-one challenge.
To give back and provide opportunities for young people in Outback Queensland, PGA professional Darren Weatherall will provide free junior golf clinics for local youth in all six locations of the Outback Queensland Masters.
“It’s a great way for young people to get first-hand knowledge and skills in the game,” Weatherall said.
“Throughout the journey I will also offer free advice and tips to adult golfers, including hints to secure that million-dollar hole-in-one!
“And remember, golf is good for you! It can provide mental and health benefits for people of all ages, genders and backgrounds, so do those stretches and practice your swing.
“The coveted Outback Queensland Masters Jacket will be waiting in the cupboard ready for its champion in 2021. All of our team will miss seeing you in person this year, but all of your travelling golfing buddies will be there to enjoy a yarn and drink next year.”
15 & 16 June
22 & 23 June
29 & 30 June
6 & 7 July
13 & 14 July
19, 20 & 21 July
