Manly Golf Club is proud to announce that three members of our professional team — Brenden Benad, Philip Baird, and Will Flitcroft — have been recognised as finalists in the 2025 NSW Golf Industry Awards, acknowledging excellence, professionalism, and leadership across the state’s golf community.
Please see below additional context for the listed awards:
Brenden Benad – Finalist, Employee of the Year (GMA / Golf NSW)
Manly Golf Club is delighted to announce that following nomination by the Club, our Course Superintendent Brenden Benad has been selected as a Finalist for the 2025 NSW Golf Industry Awards – Employee of the Year.
This prestigious recognition, presented by Golf NSW, celebrates individuals who demonstrate excellence, innovation, and leadership across the golf industry.
Brenden’s nomination reflects his exceptional work ethos, discipline, and commitment to continual improvement since leading the course team at Manly Golf Club in 2024. He leads from the front—setting the tone for presentation standards, safety, and professionalism—while fostering collaboration, mentoring his team, and communicating openly with members and committees.
Since his appointment, Brenden has transformed both the course and the culture of his 20-strong team. Course conditions have reached their highest standard in recent memory, directly supporting our Strategic Plan objective to deliver premium playing surfaces. Equally impressive has been the pride and accountability he has instilled across the department—qualities that have reinforced member confidence in the Club’s long-term custodianship of its most important asset, the golf course.
Beyond agronomy, Brenden’s leadership has enhanced the member experience, strengthened the Club’s value proposition, and added measurable value to our community. His balance of technical excellence, communication, and team development sets a benchmark for leadership in turf management industry.
Philip Baird – Finalist, Management Professional of the Year (PGA)
Our long-serving Director of Golf, Philip Baird, has been peer nominated by a fellow PGA Professional as a finalist in the category of Management Professional (PGA).
In detailing his nomination, the PGA cited “demonstrated exceptional commitment in elevating the game, the PGA profession and the Club’s operations for over 2 decades at Manly GC and for nearly 4 decades as a PGA member. He has provided extensive support through mentorship to fellow PGA Members, contributing meaningfully to the growth of the profession.”
Philip has served as Director of Golf for 23 years and is a proud custodian of the Club’s history. Beyond the Club, he contributes widely to the game—serving as Chair of the PGA National Disciplinary Committee and as a Director of the National Heritage Society.
Will Flitcroft – Finalist, Teaching Professional of the Year (PGA)
Rounding out the Club’s representation, Will Flitcroft, our Head Teaching Professional, has also been nominated through a peer nomination for PGA Teaching Professional of the Year.
Will is a dedicated and thoughtful coach, recognised for his commitment to continuous learning and his ability to bring out the best in each student. His approach combines technical understanding with a genuine passion for player development, reflecting the values of patience, professionalism, and ongoing growth that define Manly’s golf program.
A Moment of Pride for Manly Golf Club
These nominations reflect the exceptional calibre of professionals who lead Manly Golf Club’s golfing and course operations. Their achievements underscore our ongoing commitment to excellence, member experience, and the advancement of the game.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Brenden Benad, Philip Baird, and Will Flitcroft on their well-deserved recognition and wish them every success at the NSW Golf Industry Awards Gala Dinner.
