We begin in the spectacular Whitsundays, where Brendan James takes readers to Hamilton Island Golf Club. A round here is much more than 18 holes. It starts with a boat ride across turquoise water, before arriving at one of Australia's most breathtaking golfing destinations. It is a course review that perfectly captures why this island layout remains one of the country's most unique golf experiences.

We also take stock of Australian golf halfway through 2026 in School's Out, handing out our mid-season report card on the nation's leading players. From Hannah Green’s brilliance on the LPGA Tour to Ripper GC’s growing LIV Golf identity and the PGA Tour’s mixed returns for the Australian contingent, Callum Hill takes a comprehensive look at who's acing the season and who still has work to do.

From the paradise of Hamilton Island to punishment, we revisit one of golf's toughest examinations in Cruel Shinnecock. Wyndham Clark arrived at Shinnecock Hills with plenty to prove and departed as a US Open champion, surviving brutal conditions, relentless pressure and a crowd that would have preferred to see someone else lifting the trophy.

Russell Gould also reflects on 25 years covering the game in Hit Me, sharing a collection of unforgettable encounters with some of golf's biggest personalities. From Tiger Woods wearing a backwards cap at Royal Melbourne, to Greg Norman in Orlando and John Daly behind a folding table at Hooters, it's a fascinating look behind the scenes from one of Australia's most experienced golf writers.

Don't miss our special Women's section in the August 2026 issue of Golf Australia magazine.

There is also a story close to our hearts in Driving Change, where James Smith celebrates 50 years of the Special Olympics Australia’s Golf Classic. It is a powerful reminder that inclusion, opportunity and elite competition can not only coexist, but thrive together.

Our dedicated women's section continues to showcase the outstanding achievements of Australia's female golfers. Russell Gould explores the remarkable rise of Karis Davidson, Australia's form player in the majors, revealing how stepping away from the game for a time ultimately became the key to moving forward. We also celebrate Australia’s recent successes in England, where Jazy Roberts claimed a breakthrough victory, while Nadene Gole successfully defended her title, highlighting the country's impressive depth. The action continues at Hazeltine, where Haeran Ryu completed an astonishing 10-shot comeback to win the Women's PGA Championship, while Davidson's breakout major performance added another memorable chapter to a compelling week.

For those dreaming about their next golfing escape, our travel section is filled with inspiration. James Smith’s Sydneyside Stunners showcases courses boasting harbourfront fairways to hidden gems and championship layouts, proving Sydney has a golfing experience to suit every handicap and every schedule.

Callum Hill heads to South Yorkshire in Where The Open Dream Begins, following hopefuls at Lindrick Golf Club during Open Regional Qualifying, where everyone from YouTubers and club professionals to weekend dreamers chase the same ambition of earning a place in The Open. Callum also explores one of Alister MacKenzie’s most fascinating designs in MacKenzie's North London Lab, discovering how Hadley Wood has evolved from royal hunting ground to Georgian estate while retaining the strategic brilliance and bold greens that make it one of the legendary architect's most revealing early works.

Rounding out the issue is our Golf Shoe Guide, highlighting some of the best footwear on the market, combining peak comfort with great style to help you look and feel your best on the course.

Whether you're passionate about championship golf, fascinated by the personalities who have shaped the game, inspired by stories of perseverance and inclusion, or simply looking for your next golfing destination, the August issue of Golf Australia has something for every golfer.