AUSTRALIA -- PricewaterhouseCoopers Partner, Tony Hallam, has been appointed CEO of the newly formed peak body for Australian golf, Golf Australia.

In making the announcement, Chairman of Golf Australia, Jerry Ellis, said: "We are delighted that Tony has accepted this position. His passion for the sport and his community involvement, coupled with his impeccable financial background and knowledge, is what's needed to make this new organisation successful for all golfers."

Tony Hallam has been a partner with PwC for the past eight years and is recognised for his strong strategic skills, the ability to develop and implement strong business direction effectively and for his inspirational leadership of people.

In speaking about his new role, Hallam says: "Golf is the game for life – everyone can compete on an equal footing no matter what their age, sex, location, background or socio-economic group. It is a game that develops self discipline, respect, patience and a healthy lifestyle. The game also breaks down social barriers and is one that can support family and business networks."

"My vision is to ensure golf is accessible to as many Australians as possible, such that anyone who wants to play can – be they a member of a club, a social golfer, elite amateur, a local or international professional."

"I am excited to be part of this new organisation which provides us with the opportunity to build on the strengths and traditions of Australian golf and harness the potential of the game into the future."

Golf Australia expects to finalise the legal structures of the new entity in December 2005 and over the following months to commence a review process which will create the strategic direction for the next three years.

Joining Jerry Ellis and Tony Hallam in this process is the six-member interim Board, made up of three AGU and three WGA appointees, who have been appointed for the next two years. They are Vivien Beer, John Buckley, Tom Crothers, Carol Humphreys, David Martin and Judy Onto.

"Golf Australia is about the future of golf in Australia; it's about golf for men and women, junior and senior, member and social alike. We are the international representative for Australia's amateur golfing community. So it's about representing Australian golfers and reflecting their interests and that's exactly what we are going to do," said Tony Hallam.