Generous support for bushfire charity golf
Support for this weekend’s Taranaki Golfers Bushfire Charity Day has stunned organisers, writes Mike Shaw.
Entry requests for the charity day had been received for almost double the number of teams the Westown Golf Club venue could accommodate, said event coordinator Terry Doherty. And cash and product donations had been more than generous.
Sunday’s event is raising funds to help the families of volunteer firefighters battling the Australian bushfires. The date of January 26 is perfectly appropriate as it’s Australia Day.
‘‘At our first meeting, we were told we hadn’t got a hope in hell of getting this going in two weeks,’’ Doherty recalled. ‘‘But I said we have to do it on Australia Day ... that’s what it has to be.’’
The response was immediate. ‘‘It’s been unbelievable, really. We had 64 teams apply to play. We had to limit it to 36 teams, two per hole. In hindsight, we could have run it over two courses.’’
Support from businesses and individuals was just as prompt. ‘‘There’s not a door we’ve knocked on where they’ve said no. One guy gave us $1000 in an envelope. Two others gave us $500 each. Barbecue food for the day has been donated. And Conrad Smith has given us some rugby memorabilia, which will be auctioned with other donated items after the golf.’’
The generosity was humbling, according to Australian-born Doherty. He has made his own personal commitment to the fundraiser, offering up his moustache of more than 40 years to an auction razor. ‘‘The bidding is up to $300 so far,’’ he said.
Doherty said the full field would mean a leisurely round of golf for the participants. ‘‘There should be a great atmosphere back in the clubhouse with everyone finishing about the same time.’’
Spot prizes would be a feature of the event, rather than prizes for top scores, he added. ‘‘The only winners on the day will be the families of the volunteer firefighters.’’
Westown Golf Club’s carpark capacity will be tested with the numbers taking part and Doherty suggested car pooling would be a sensible approach by as many of the teams of five as possible.
Sunday’s event involves a massed start at 10.30am, and barbecue food will be available from 9.30am. For further information, call Terry Doherty on 027 223 5527. Bank account details for donations are also available from Westown Golf Club.