Temora Public School opened its doors to the fun and excitement of golf last week, hosting a successful Lunchtime Launch It (LTLI) event that saw students of all ages take their first swings on an indoor golf simulator.
The school welcomed LTLI back following the success of last year’s inaugural session. The event was designed to give students from Stage 2 and Stage 3 an opportunity to try golf, with the ultimate goal of introducing a Sporting Schools program in 2026.
The program was generously supported by Golf NSW and the Jack Newton Junior Golf (JNJG) initiative. Across five tailored 30-minute sessions, plus additional recess and lunch slots open to all students, more than 140 students and 12 teachers took part, each hitting three shots on the simulator.
Erin Ford, Principal of Temora Public School, said the event was a resounding success.
“The atmosphere was fantastic – lots of cheering, celebrating both student and staff success. Students have already been asking if we can do this again next year,” she said.
Golf has been gradually introduced at the school through the Premier’s Sporting Challenge Rotations. Several junior golfers have already represented Temora at the Riverina Golf Trials, with three students earning selection to compete at Cobram Barooga later this term. The LTLI event offered both newcomers and experienced players a fun, hands on experience to develop their skills.
For some students, the simulator gave them the chance to build on their existing golfing abilities. Year 6 student Jobe, who has been playing golf for around four years and currently plays off a handicap of 20, said he enjoyed “just getting in there and smashing the ball.”
Others, like his classmate Xavier, were trying the sport for the first time. “Seeing how far I can actually hit the golf ball—and beating most of my mates was the best part,” he laughed.
Year 4 student Spencer also relished the opportunity, explaining that “it was good to practice my shots and to see how far I can hit it,” while Caitlin, in Year 6, appreciated the guidance on offer. “I liked how helpful Cade was and the great tips he gave to improve,” she said.
For Maddie, a Year 5 student, the event was simply a new adventure. “It was something new that I got to try. I haven’t played golf before,” she said.
The event was more about participation and enjoyment than competition, giving students a relaxed environment to explore the sport. Staff members with connections to Temora Golf Club and current junior programs recommended the LTLI as a way to engage students and build interest in golf at the school.
Principal Ford noted that the school hopes to build on this momentum in the coming year.
“We want to include golf as part of our sporting opportunities, and running the Lunchtime Launch It again in 2026 is definitely on the cards.”
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