From Forbes in NSW James is a relatively late starter in the professional golf ranks turning professional in April 2019 at age 26.  He was always keen on sport particular rugby union where he starred at fly half for his school and represented Country NSW.

In 2012 he moved to Sydney to join the Australian College of Elite Golf based at Bonnie Doon Golf Club.  Coached by Shane Puckett he improved quickly and became a member of the Bonnie Doon Metropolitan Pennants team.  In 2014 he was undefeated in the competition and in 2016 Bonnie Doon won the Flag.

James joined the NSW High Performance Squad in 2017 and captained the State Team in 2018.  He is well regarded by Golf Australia and members of the State team. His results in Vardon events have placed him 10th and 5th in 2017 and 2018.

As an elite amateur he gained experience playing in top amateur events in the UK and the United States.

Since turning Pro in 2019 he has gained conditional status on the PGA Tour of China.  He has played two professional events on the Australasian Tour though exemptions and played one event in China making the cut in all events.

In January 2020 James had a second tilt at Aussie Q School and successfully gained his playing card. He finished 4th at the final stage of Q School held at Moonah Links.