Inside, we serve up a feast of stories, interviews, travel inspiration and expert tips which no golf fan will want to miss.

Our Open Preview Special begins where it should – with the venue. Royal Portrush roared to life in 2019 when Shane Lowry’s epic victory captured the world’s attention, and it promises more drama this time around. In a feature by Garrett Johnston, we revisit the atmosphere of that remarkable week and examine what awaits this year’s contenders on one of the most captivating courses in the Open rota.

That list of contenders, of course, includes our cover star. Cameron Smith, the 2022 Open Champion, knows Portrush well and is relishing the chance to return to a course he says plays “a little more American” than other links tests. Smith dives into the unique challenge posed by Portrush’s elevation changes, quirky shot demands and fast, firm conditions. “You get a lot of low shots that are very up and down,” he explains. “You’re definitely adding a club for the uphill or downhill approach. It’s just very different – a cool golf course that has so many varieties of challenges to it.”

We also take a step back to ask a bigger question: why do we love The Open so much? From the raw tradition to the early-morning tee times, the punishing bunkers to the stories of Aussie triumph, our Digital Editor Callum Hill unpacks what makes golf’s oldest major its most magical.

But there’s plenty more beyond The Open.

Deputy Editor Matt Cleary heads to Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula to review the spectacular St Andrews Beach – Tom Doak’s coastal gem now ranked among the world’s top 100 courses. “It’s more fun than both Luna Parks,” Matt declares – and it’s hard to argue.

We go behind the scenes as the AIG Women’s Open prepares for a dramatic week at Royal Porthcawl, where wild weather and fierce competition promise an unforgettable championship. As John Huggan writes, Aussie hopes are high – and history is on the line.

Looking to stretch your golfing dollar? Our regional budget golf guide highlights some of the best-value courses across the country. These hidden gems offer character, charm and challenging layouts – without breaking the bank, writes Golf Australia magazine royalty Brendan James.

Craving a bigger adventure? Our feature on Australia’s ultimate golf road trip traces a loop around the mainland, from sun-bleached coastlines to red dirt fairways, proving that some of the country’s best golf is found off the beaten path. And if you’re ready to look even further afield, our New Zealand luxury travel piece makes a compelling case for crossing the Tasman, with world-class courses, dramatic scenery and five-star comfort.

There’s room for personality, too. Cameron Daddo drops in for a candid chat about golf as therapy, raising awareness for menopause, and why life on the fairways beats life in the spotlight. And Steve Elkington shares lessons from a lifetime in the game – from his unforgettable 1995 PGA win to the antics which made him a cult hero.

We round out the issue with smart swing advice from Australian Golf Schools founder Tom Linskey, whose simple mindset tweak could change the way you strike the ball forever.

From Royal Portrush to the back roads of regional Australia, from household names to hidden treasures, the August issue of Golf Australia is packed cover to cover with the stories, stars and substance that make golf so great.

Don’t miss it – on sale now, wherever great magazines are sold.