From Architecture to Greenskeeping: Darren's Journey to Finding His Passion

Darren Wardle has had an unconventional career journey that led him to discover his true passion: greenskeeping. Transitioning from a background in architecture, Darren now thrives in the world of sports turf management, working at Australia's top golf course, Royal Melbourne Golf Club. 

Darren's Unconventional Career Path

Darren’s story starts in the world of design and architecture. "In my first year of university, I did animation. I loved drawing and designing stuff, and I always had a passion for designing buildings and floor plans. But once I started architecture, it wasn’t quite what I thought it would be. The hours, the demand, and the sort of reward for effort didn’t match up. Before finishing, I realised that I didn’t want to do it." 

From Architecture to Outdoor Work: Darren's Early Career Shift

Feeling a strong desire to work outdoors, Darren explored various options. "I wanted to work outdoors, whether it be building, being a sparky, or greenskeeping," he recalls. The opportunity for a greenskeeping position arose in his hometown at Murray Downs Golf and Country Club in Swan Hill, and Darren seized it. "I played a lot of tennis back home, and our greenskeeper for the lawn tennis courts did a fantastic job and seemed to love his work. So, I jumped at the opportunity to become a greenskeeper and haven’t looked back." 

Discovering Greenskeeping: A New Passion

Darren's fascination with the intricacies of golf course design became evident as he immersed himself in his new path. "I am fascinated with how certain courses play out and how people have to approach their game of golf because of the course design," he says. His current position at Royal Melbourne Golf Club, Australia's number one golf course, allows him to indulge in this passion. "Royal Melbourne was designed by Alister MacKenzie, who’s designed many world-class golf courses. It’s on the sandbelt, and the way the staff have maintained the hard surfaces, the bounce on the greens, and the playability is just remarkable. It’s a beautiful course, well-designed, and it plays great." 

How Darren's Architectural Background Enhances His Greenskeeping Skills

Darren’s design background has undoubtedly influenced his approach to greenskeeping, blending creativity with meticulous attention to detail. "I try to improve every day and learn every day," he emphasizes. "Not everything you learn on a sheet of paper or through practice at a course will show up at work. Sometimes, different things at work will show up that haven’t been covered in a diploma. So, even though you finish, you’re still just learning." 

Achievements and Recognition in Sports Turf Management

Darren studied the Certificate III in Sports Turf Management (Apprenticeship) AHC31319 and was awarded Melbourne Polytechnic’s Outstanding Apprentice/Trainee of the Year at the 2024 Graduation Ceremony.  

In June 2024, Darren was announced the winner of the Australian Sports Turf Managers Association (ASTMA) Graduate of the Year Award.  Darren is the seventh graduate from Victoria to win the award in its 29-year history.  

Upon accepting his award at the awards ceremony in Brisbane, Darren gave a special shout out to his teachers at Melbourne Polytechnic and the Murray Downs and Royal Melbourne teams.   

 “Thank you to everyone and all the hard work that people have put into me on this journey so far – their teachings, learnings and for making this great job a pleasure to rock up to every day,” Darren said.  

 “To everyone at Melbourne Polytechnic, thanks for all your hard work and especially Doug Agnew whose personality made being in the classroom such fun. I’m looking forward to a great career in this wonderful industry.”  

Darren's story is a testament to the importance of finding one's passion and the willingness to pivot when something doesn’t feel right. His journey from architecture to greenskeeping is inspiring, showcasing how embracing change and following one’s interests can lead to a fulfilling and successful career. 

Explore Careers in Sports Turf Management

Undertaking study in the field of Sports Turf Management prepares you for career opportunities such as golf course or turf wicket curator, bowling greenkeeper, sporting venue groundskeeper or consultant, irrigation assistant, or a community facilities caretaker for local government. This qualification is well-recognised in the industry, and it provides the opportunity to join various professional bodies in golf course and sports turf management.  

Melbourne Polytechnic offers two options for students - Certificate III in Sports Turf Management AHC31319 (Apprenticeship) and Certificate III in Sports Turf Management AHC31319 (Non-apprenticeship) and those interested to expand their knowledge can undertake a Diploma of Sports Turf Management AHC51019.