O’Donovan, from Avondale Golf Club, defeated Kempsey’s Andrew Kirkman 4&3 in the 36-hole final at Belmont Golf Club near Newcastle.

“I’m very excited. This is honestly the best day, the best couple of weeks I’ve had in my life so far. I thought 2023 was a good year, but January 2024 has started out literally like a dream,” he said.

The 20-year-old was four up through the first 18 holes, but Kirkman kept the match tight, bringing O’Donovan down to three up on the 31st hole. But O’Donovan fought back to eventually secure the win.

“There were so many enjoyable moments, so many great matches I’ve played, so many great shots I hit. I couldn’t be happier with where my game is at the moment and the opportunities, I’m giving myself because of how I’m playing too,” he said.

After winning the Avondale Amateur last week and collecting the NSW Medal earlier this week, this third win has seen him soar to new heights.

“I’m definitely more confident. More than I’ve ever been, knowing that I can verse these guys and beat them. I’ve never put myself in a spot where I’ve actually won, and now I’ve won two or three times in a row so it’s a great feeling,” he said.
In the women’s event, Kim, at just 15 years of age, secured a 3&2 victory against Avondale’s Rachel Lee.

“I’m feeling pretty good about myself, I definitely came around on that last 18,” the Links Hope Island member said.

“I was kind of doubtful of myself, I’m going to be honest. I was quite nervous, even sleeping. But I think I was pretty confident as soon as I started the second 18 and became square with her.”

Her turning point came on the 30th hole when she hit the lead for the first time.

Claiming this year's championship holds special significance for Kim after finishing as the runner-up last year to fellow Queenslander Shyla Singh.

“I’m feeling a lot better than last year. I was a lot more nervous last year and I think I crushed myself. I’m so happy to have won,” Kim said.

O’Donovan and Kim have have earned spots in their respective men’s and women’s NSW Opens.