GOLD CREEK GOLF ACADEMY - Key Persons


Brendan Higgins

Job Titles:
  • Director of Inctruction & Club Fitting
  • Director of Instruction and Club Fitting
Brendan completed his PGA Traineeship in 2019 at Royal Canberra Golf Club under the guidance of Craig Smith while also spending time at Federal Golf Club during his traineeship. Brendan has a background in health and is a Registered Nurse. He has spent many years working in various Emergency Departments around the country and was fortunate enough to have played and experience different golf courses throughout Australia. Brendan has recently returned to Canberra from living overseas where he enjoyed coaching all levels of golfers. During this time, Brendan's focus was on bringing enjoyment to the game of golf and ensuring everyone, no matter their level or ability, found enjoyment in their game and the game of golf. Brendan's coaching style reflects his philosophy where golf is a game of patience, understanding and enjoyment.

Craig Cox

Job Titles:
  • PGA Instructor
I have been coaching golf since 2015 and has become my passion after working previously in automotive finance where one of my roles was sales-based training.

Joel Shields

Job Titles:
  • PGA Associate
  • PGA Instructor
Joel is a current PGA Associate undertaking his PGA Membership Pathway Program under the watchful eye of Craig Smith at the Gold Creek Country Club. Joel began his golfing career in the small town of Young NSW before transitioning to Sydney where he played division 1 pennants for Mona Vale Golf Club. This led Joel to Completing a two-year program at the Australian College of Sport (golf program) run successfully from the Bonnie Doon Golf Club. Joel has competed both domestically and internationally and developed a fantastic understanding of the game of golf and ways in which to further develop players and their needs. Joel looks to create a positive impact on the Gold Creek Golf Academy, whilst providing a fun enjoyable experience for all members and guests. He has a passion for providing excellent assistance and knowledge as well as encouraging junior development into the future. Joel's love for the game helps drives his ability and knowledge to further develop his understanding of the golf swing to help all levels of golfers. He looks forward to helping you on your golfing journey.

Robbie Taylor

Job Titles:
  • 4rd Year PGA Associate
  • PGA Instructor
Robbie is a 4rd Year PGA Associate. He is a passionate golfer and enjoys everything this great game has to offer, especially inspiring the same passion in others to play their best golf. Robbie's coaching philosophy is focused on simplicity and efficiency. He looks to work with a student's natural swing movements with the goal of making these as efficient as possible. He is excited to be a part of the Academy and is looking forward to assisting golfers in improving and enjoying their game.