Golf goes on, PGA chief says
GOLF boss Brian Thorburn has confirmed that Clive Palmer's decision to tear up Hyatt Hotels' management contract will not affect the staging of the Australian PGA Championship this year.
But Mr Thorburn refused to be drawn on the long-term future of the prestigious event - a major tourism driver - at the famed resort course.
"To be honest, I don't want to get into a discussion about life beyond this year," he said.
In 2010, the PGA of Australia - which Mr Thorburn heads as chief executive officer - announced a multi-million-dollar deal to keep the tournament at Coolum until at least 2012.
The new deal came with a two-year contract option, but late yesterday it was unclear whether the PGA or the resort held the option.
Mr Thorburn said he was aware the billionaire mining magnate had dumped the Hyatt before the news was made public.
"Clive's people were thoughtful enough to forewarn us before the announcement, which we're grateful for," he said.
"From our perspective it's just business as usual.
"We're looking forward to playing the PGA at Coolum this year, and we're confident Clive and the staff there will help us put on another great event."
Mr Palmer said the resort would continue to be the home of the tournament.
The PGA Championship has been held at Coolum since 2002.
