Mackay Greens To Global Scenes

Young Mackay Golfer Swings For International Glory

Mackay’s little local legend, nine-year-old Sonny Hutchinson, is teeing off on an incredible journey to represent Australia at the 2025 Champion of Champions World Junior Golf Championship in Ireland from July 29–31.

Ready to drive his game forward, Sonny will compete against 250 of the world’s best junior golfers from over 40 countries in the Under 9 division.

Sonny will also take part the following week at the Flogas Irish Junior Open Championship, drawing top junior talent from Europe, Asia, and the United States.

“I’m looking forward to meeting kids from different countries and cultures, seeing how they play and train, and just giving it my best,” Sonny said.

Sonny started golf at six and a half through the MyGolf Australia junior program at Mackay Golf Club, where he trains and competes weekly under coaches Jeff Reid and Elliot Beel. He spends hours on the practice green, sand bunker, and putting areas, focusing on his short game and wedge play – which is his favourite part of the game.

“I love chipping, especially with my 58-degree wedge. I like trying flop shots over the bunkers and landing them on the green,” Sonny said.

When not on the course, Sonny works on swing mechanics and is consistency at the Mackay Driving Range.

Sonny’s preparation includes coaching with Anthony Johnson at Drummond Golf Mackay, where he uses the Trackman simulator to dial in yardages and refine swing mechanics. He also trains indoors at Mackay Fairway and X-Golf Mackay when weather restricts outdoor practice. This routine across four venues provides consistent, data-driven training.

Sonny competes year-round in junior events across Queensland, including Northern Queensland, the Central Highlands, and Central Queensland. He’s played in Pro-Am events like Clermont and Tieri, gaining experience alongside rising stars.

At the JET Group Tieri Pro-Am, he played alongside Max Ford during the sponsors’ day, but Sonny says, “It’s not just about the trophies.”

“I love playing with my friends, meeting new mates, and chasing the next shot,” he said.

Last year, Sonny was invited to caddy for Lucas Herbert during a practice round at the Royal Brisbane PGA event. He even had the chance to meet Aussie legends Cam Smith, Jason Day, Min Woo Lee, and reps from Coca-Cola Australia, who let him tee off on one of the holes — smashing it straight down the middle of the fairway.

“It was unreal. I got to carry the bag, talk to Lucas, and even hit a tee shot in front of everyone. Best day ever,” Sonny said.

“Golf teaches me patience. Not every shot is perfect. Sometimes things go wrong, and that’s okay, it’s how you play the next shot that counts,” Sonny said.

He also enjoys other sports, including soccer, swimming, and Ninja Warrior-style obstacle courses, balancing golf with varied physical activity.

Sonny aims to continue playing both in Australia and overseas. After Ireland, he hopes to compete in Japan, Thailand, and Singapore to learn from different styles, courses, and cultures.

No matter how far golf takes him, Mackay will always be home. It’s where his journey began, and it’s the support from local clubs, coaches, family, and mates that continues to give him every opportunity to grow.

With strong local backing, Sonny is just getting started and excited to see where his next shot takes him.

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Mackay’s nine-year-old Sonny Hutchinson is set to represent Australia at the 2025 World Junior Golf Championship in Ireland. Photos supplied

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