PNG Open growing in strength, putting nation on golf map, says PGA director

For Professional Golf Australia Tournament Director Graeme Scott, the 2025 PNG Open is more than just another stop on the Challenger PGA Tour of Australasia, but a showcase of how far the tournament has come and how it’s helping put Papua New Guinea on the global golfing map.

On his fifth visit to the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club, Scott says the growth in quality and depth of the field is undeniable.

“We have a very, very high-quality field this year bringing in international players,” he said. “Some of them may not have heard of Papua New Guinea before, but now they’re sharing their experiences here with the world through social media.”

The 2025 edition will feature seven women professionals from Australia, in a bid Scott says fits perfectly with efforts to develop women’s golf across the region.

“We now have six tournaments in Australia where men and women play alongside each other. Having our women here, not competing against the men but as part of the same event, is a fantastic step,” he said. “Hopefully it inspires more girls in PNG to pick up a club.”

Scott praised the warm welcome players have received, saying it is part of what makes the PNG Open unique.

“It’s not just about the golf, they’re having a fantastic experience here. The hospitality has been outstanding,” he said.

He also paid tribute to the organisers and sponsors, including Kumul Mineral Holdings, the Papua New Guinea Golf Association, and event manager Ian Hodge, for their work in elevating the tournament’s profile.

“This event has continued to grow in quality and strength,” Scott said. “It’s something Papua New Guinea can be proud of.”