His great uncle was a founder member of his home club, Thornhill. Enjoyed a magnificent golfing day in March 1998 when he clinched the Australian Order of Merit crown on the same day that he went out and claimed his first European Tour title in the Qatar Masters. Made a bold attempt to qualify automatically for the 1999 Ryder Cup side. Came up just short, in 12th place, but earned one of Mark James's wild cards for Brookline.

Became a father for the first time shortly before Brookline when wife, Emma, gave birth to daughter, Bonnie. Made his Ryder Cup debut in the singles at The Country Club, against Tiger Woods. Had some putting problems in 2000 but finished joint runner-up in the Volvo PGA Championship. Finally added to his Qatar success in June when he won The Great North Open at De Vere Slaley Hall.