Just days after celebrating her 17th birthday, Central Coast rising talent Kiara Connolly-Jackson is ready to step into new territory as she lines up for her first 2026 Ford Women’s NSW Open Regional Qualifier of the season at Narrabri Golf Club.
For Connolly-Jackson, this week is another chance to chase the goal she has never quite reached: a place in the Women’s NSW Open. Despite playing a handful of qualifiers last year, she has yet to make her debut in the championship field.
“It’s exciting. The game’s in pretty good condition at the moment,” she said, smiling through a mix of nerves and anticipation.
“It should be a good couple of days.”
Connolly-Jackson’s first look at Narrabri revealed exactly why these regional events test players in unique ways.
“The greens are interesting,” she said.
“They’re pretty different to what I play at home, so it’ll take a bit to get used to. But it should be good.”
Her approach for the opening day is simple: settle early, avoid mistakes, and let the course come to her.
“Just try and play steady for the first day,” she said.
“And putting, really. Just two-putts. Keeping it simple.”
She arrives with a clear reset in mind after a frustrating week at the Jack Newton Junior Golf Bonville Champions Trophy.
“I didn’t play great, so I just want to play better and more consistently. Hopefully a top-10 finish. I’ll be happy with that. And just have fun.”
That balance of competitiveness and perspective has been shaped by a big year, including her selection for the NSW Junior State Team. Now, she’s using the Regional Qualifier circuit not only to test herself, but also to learn from the professionals she finds herself paired with.
“It’s very cool,” she said.
“I played my first ones last year, and they were really fun. It’s cool to see what they do. They’re travelling for three weeks straight, playing these events. The Pro-Am days are fun, and then the two-day tournaments are good. It’s cool to see how they handle everything.”
As for whether she believes a breakthrough win is realistic this week, the answer is a confident yes.
“I reckon a win could be in reach if I play consistently and trust my game.”
Connolly-Jackson plans to compete in the next two qualifiers as well, building experience as the summer run continues. And while she has never played at Wollongong — host of the 2026 Ford Women’s NSW Open — she hopes this season’s efforts will finally earn her a spot in the field.
Round One of the Regional Qualifier at Narrabri Golf Club will begin at 9:00 AM tomorrow morning.
Live: Narrabri Golf Club
Tuesday, 2nd December
11:00 am – 4:00 pm
