By David Tease (Golf NSW)

Three months into a fledgling pro career, and Queensland’s Cassie Porter is quickly learning what life on tour is like. She readily admits life on the ‘other side of the line’ is a whole new paradigm, but it’s also a change she is happily embracing.

“Playing for money puts a whole different spin on it, but I think it’s just a lot more fun when you get past that.

“I guess there’s something on the line every week, and it’s just a whole different motivation, but in a better way, so yeah, I love it.”

At just 19 years old, Porter could well be one of the youngest professionals in the field, however she said the camaraderie among those who she now calls her peers has also been a refreshing experience.

“It’s a different vibe, a better vibe. Everyone is out here just to do their own thing, make a living, and everyone understands that everyone is pretty much in the same boat. We are all just having a lot of fun doing it,” She grinned.

However, she is also not just here to be part of the numbers, especially as this week’s Classic isn’t Porter’s first foray around Bonville; She knows that armed with that little extra course knowledge, she could be in the mix come Sunday.

“I think if I go out and have fun, stick to my mind processes. I’ll put myself in a good position.

“Hopefully, you won’t have to scroll too far down the page,” she grinned.

Despite the allure of an exemption on the LET tour in the mix this week, and after witnessing the standout win of Steph Kyriacou and what victory in the 2020 tournament meant to her career, Porter understands that success is not simply a matter of planning a year or so in front; it’s an entire battle plan over the next five or more years.

“I’d love to be established on the LPGA two years, I’d love to have win under my belt and in five years, I’d love to be a major champion.”

Porter said the course was in excellent condition despite the horrendous weather the eastern coast has endured over the last six or so weeks.

“The course is looking fabulous. The Greens are probably the best I’ve ever seen in the three years I’ve been competing here. It is setting up a treat, it really is beautiful here.”