A former winner of this event, Payne lifted the Senior Amateur trophy at nearby Bathurst Golf Club in 2017.

He will be tough to beat, especially around his home course, Duntryleague this week.

Several former champions are taking part, including Mona Vale's Stefan Albinski (2016), Lester Peterson (2018) and Comealla's Greg Rhodes (2015).

The women's division will be no less competitive, with Monash County Club's Jacqui Morgan set to defend her crown.

After being postponed in April due to COVID-19, Golf NSW is excited to be partnering with Orange City Council to bring the Championships to the region.

This year's tournament is the first time the Men's and Women's Senior Championships will be played together, bringing the event in line with Golf NSW's other major amateur crowns including the NSW Amateur, Junior Championships, and the recently completed Mid-Amateur Championship.

The Senior Amateur will kick-off with the Men's and Women's NSW Foursomes on Monday, November 16. The 54-hole Men's and Women's NSW Senior Championships will begin on Tuesday, with the final round on Thursday.

Around 200 golfers will descend on the region, with entrants coming from across the state.

General Manager of Golf - Golf NSW, Graeme Phillipson said the Senior Amateur Championships always attracted strong fields. Despite many regular interstate and international competitors being unable to attend, he remained confident the quality of golf on display would be exemplary.

"The Senior Amateur Championships are a highlight of the golfing year for those aged over 55, and combining both Championships into one week will be a boon for the Orange region," he said.

"The interest we receive for this event is growing. Last year we had representatives from every state in Australia, as well as visitors from New Zealand, Singapore, and Malaysia. Sadly, COVID has cruelled the chance for international visitors, but the fields are still strong."

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