Meet the Coaches
James Perkinson
Senior Golf Professional
With over a decade of experience in the golf industry, James Perkinson brings a global perspective and a strong passion for teaching to the role of Senior Golf Professional. Originally from New Zealand, he began his professional journey at 19, relocating to Australia to pursue a career under the New Zealand PGA banner.
After completing a traineeship at Elanora Country Club in Sydney, James spent two years competing professionally in Dubai, followed by two years working at one of Vancouver’s leading private clubs. These diverse experiences have shaped a well-rounded and adaptable approach to coaching and club life.
A large focus of James’s role is player development across all levels. He has led successful “Ladies Get Into Golf” clinics and played a key role in growing elite junior golf programs at previous clubs. Whether working with beginners, juniors, or experienced golfers, James takes a highly personalised and practical approach — working with each player’s unique strengths and helping them build confidence and improve their game.
Energetic, easygoing, and approachable, James is passionate about creating a positive and welcoming environment for all members, both on and off the course. He is also committed to the future of the game, constantly studying and exploring new ways to help golf evolve and stay relevant in a rapidly changing world.
Jack McLeod
Golf Professional
Jack is a Northern Beaches local and has lived on the beaches all his life. Jack developed a passion for golf early on, spending his junior days at Bayview GC before receiving a scholarship to play at Bonnie Doon GC in Sydney’s east. From there, Jack competed in prestigious amateur events around Australia and overseas and eventually decided to kick start his professional career through the PGA Traineeship Program. He graduated in 2022 and is a fully qualified PGA Professional who brings valuable knowledge and experience helping golfers of all levels improve their game.
In 2024, Jack was successfully able to earn a PGA Tour of Australasia tour card which allowed him to compete on the Australasian Tour where he gained valuable experience travelling and competing against some of Australia’s best professional tour players.
Fast forward 18 Months and Jack decided to turn his focus to coaching and was proud to successfully apply for the Assistant Professional role at Bayview.
An easy going and enthusiastic individual, Jack takes a holistic approach to coaching, focusing on building a solid foundation while tailoring instruction to everyone’s needs and goals. Jack specializes in the short game area and aims to keep his sessions simple and clear for his students.
Make sure you say hi to Jack in the Pro Shop.
Louise Smith
Golf Professional
Louise began her golfing journey in Scotland at just eight years old, learning the fundamentals of the game and earning her first handicap at Ratho Park Golf Club, just outside Edinburgh. In 2015 she moved to the Northern Beaches with her family, continuing to develop her passion for golf.
Throughout her teenage years, Louise could be found on the golf course at every opportunity—often choosing practice over study. After joining Bayview in 2016, she represented the club in Junior Pennants and later the Ladies Grade team, where she remained undefeated across both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Among her achievements, Louise won the Bayview Women’s Club Championships in 2023 and 2024. Her most cherished victory, however, is winning the Women’s Foursomes in 2024 alongside her mum.
After finishing school in 2021, Louise stepped away from golf briefly to begin a degree in Biomedical Engineering, moving to Newcastle in early 2022. She later returned to Sydney to complete her second year of study at UTS, where she realised her true passion lay in golf. This turning point led her to pursue the sport more seriously, aiming both to elevate her own game and work within the industry.
Louise began the PGA Membership Pathway Program at the start of 2025 and is now thriving in her role as an Associate Professional. She is excited to continue developing her coaching skills, assist with clinics, and begin integrating more private lessons as she grows in her professional journey.