From international golf competitions to a US tennis scholarship, the common thread among several X-Golf Mackay staff isn’t just talent – it’s consistent support from home.
At the year-old HomeCo-based venue in Queensland’s north, a number of young staff are building confidence, responsibility and connection through sport, each backed by mothers who have supported their journeys from an early age.
For Assistant Manager Makayla Fraser, that support started at just six years old…
Originally from Rockhampton, Makayla progressed through junior golf into national competitions, later representing Australia overseas. Her experience includes three consecutive years competing in the United States and appearances at international junior events, including the Junior Golfing Olympics.
“My mum got my older brother into golf and I just became obsessed with it,” Makayla said.
“I’ve had some amazing experiences which I never would have had the opportunity to do if I didn’t have a mum who motivated me to keep going.”
Now 23, Makayla’s remains closely connected to the sport in her role at X-Golf Mackay, overseeing X-League competitions and supporting players of all skill levels in a more accessible, social format.
Her experience is similar to that of others emerging from the venue, where sport and community intersect.
Sixteen-year-old Raice Gibbons has built a competitive tennis career over the past eight years, recently earning a scholarship in Texas. Since arriving, he has already been recognised with a USTA Sportsmanship Award, marking an early milestone in his international pathway.
With Raice now pursuing his tennis ambitions overseas, his younger brother Reyne has stepped into his first role at X-Golf Mackay.
Their mum, Amanda, says the transition reflects the broader impact of both sport and environment.
“As a mum, it’s such a proud moment seeing them working, communicating and really enjoying what they do,” she said.
“You just keep showing up and supporting them through whatever stage they’re in. Places like X-Golf make that easy – it brings everyone together and you really see how much they grow.”
Across the venue, similar stories continue to take shape, from families discovering golf together for the first time to parents supporting children through both elite pathways and everyday participation.
As Mother’s Day approaches, stories like these highlight the role consistent support at home plays in shaping sporting outcomes and building the confidence and character of young people.
At X-Golf Mackay, that impact is reflected in a community where players of all ages are supported to build skills, confidence and connection.
To the mums and mother-figures of all of our X-Golf venues – Happy Mother’s Day!
