A PGA Member for 55 years, McCormack was passionate about junior golf and the positive influence the game could have on young lives. Through his work as a coach, Development Officer and State Coach in South Australia, he introduced thousands of young people to golf and helped shape the careers of many aspiring players.
Nick’s contribution was recognised through numerous honours, including the Service to the South Australian Golf Industry Award in 2017, and most recently, with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to golf in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours.
“Nick was a much-loved and highly respected member of the South Australian golf community, dedicating more than five decades to the PGA and to growing the game,” said PGA of Australia CEO, Gavin Kirkman.
“For those who knew him, Nick will be remembered not only for his contribution to golf, but for his warmth, generosity and genuine care for the people he coached and mentored. He was a wonderful ambassador for the PGA profession and a passionate advocate for the next generation.
“Vale Nick. You made a lasting difference to our game and to the lives of so many young golfers.”
Introduced to the game by his father in Goulburn, New South Wales, at age 13, such was McCormack’s instant affinity for golf that he began a PGA Professional traineeship under Bob Payne and Noel Matthew at Kooringal Golf Club at the age of 16.
Prior to his father’s encouragement, McCormack had viewed golf as a sport for old men, yet he has devoted much of his 55-year career as a PGA Professional to growing the game at its grass roots.
His work has included leading the growth of junior participation in South Australia through driving the inclusion of golf in South Australian school sport, the establishment of various junior development programs and a long-running commitment to creating opportunities for young people to experience golf at The Grange Golf Club, in particular.
“The game teaches you to be who you are,” McCormack said in 2022.
“It also teaches them respect, honesty and discipline and brings the confidence out in some of these kids.
“Because most sports are team sports, golf teaches you that if you’re out there on your own and you do make mistakes, you pick yourself up and focus on the next shot.
“It’s building their character, understanding who they are and how they can develop themselves.
“Golf teaches kids all of that.”