About the Southern Region
About the region
The GCMA Southern Region represents golf clubs across Oxfordshire, Hampshire, West Berkshire, Isle of Wight, Channel Islands, East Sussex and West Sussex.
We are a dynamic, forward-thinking community of golf club managers, industry professionals, and emerging leaders, all dedicated to shaping the future of golf club management.
Our region provides a collaborative platform for professional development, networking, and the sharing of best practices. We support our members through:
- Education & Development – Access expert-led workshops, regional meetings, and national GCMA initiatives.
- Networking & Support – Connect with a strong peer network that encourages collaboration, mentorship, and career growth.
- Innovation & Growth – Stay informed on the latest trends, technology, and strategies to drive club success.
Whether you’re an experienced leader or an aspiring professional, the GCMA Southern Region offers a connected, supportive community to help you thrive in your role and contribute to the future of the industry.
History of the GCMA Southern Region
2012
At the Association’s AGM at Formby, Anthea Wilkinson was awarded Honorary Life Membership.
Chief Executive Keith Lloyd highlighted Anthea’s impressive career:
- Secretary at St Ives Golf Club in Cambridge.
- President of the Cambridge Ladies Golf Union.
- Secretary at Stoneham Golf Club for 13 years.
2007
The Region’s name changed to align with the national association:
- Golf Club Managers’ Association – Southern Region (GCMA Southern Region).
This reflected the shift from the traditional honorary role to the modern professional club manager.
Megan Bibby (Manager at West Hove Golf Club) won National Golf Club Secretary of the Year.
2006
The 25th Anniversary of the Southern Region was celebrated with a trip to Jersey.
- Hosted by GCMA Southern Region members Ian Prentice (La Moye) and Darren Attwood (Royal Jersey).
A Celebration Dinner was held at Stoneham Golf Club, where Anthea Wilkinson had served as Secretary.
- Distinguished guests included Anthea and David Harrison MBE.
2000
The rules changed to allow the Regional Secretary and the National Executive Committee (NEC) Representative to be separate roles.
Pat Clash (Salisbury and West Wilts) was elected as the first NEC Representative for the Southern Region.
1995
Roy Goodliffe drafted the first general rules for the Southern Region, which were approved at the Autumn Meeting.
Prior to this, no formal constitution or rules existed; regional meetings followed National Rules.
1989
Anthea Wilkinson became the Association’s first (and to date, only) lady National Captain, having served on the National Committee.
1981
Stoneham Golf Club appointed one of the first lady secretaries, Anthea Wilkinson.
John Crowther, the National Secretary, invited Anthea to form the Southern Region of the Association.
The region was to include Oxfordshire, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Channel Islands, West and part of East Sussex.
1973
At the Association’s AGM at Kings Norton, the rules were changed to allow lady secretaries to become members.
1955
As Honorary Secretaries began meeting informally, the Association recognised the value of these local gatherings.
Several areas were approached and encouraged to set up affiliated Regions.
1933
The Association of Golf Club Secretaries was formed.
At that time, most golf clubs were managed by Honorary Secretaries, elected annually at their Club’s AGM.