The Carterton Golf Club was buzzing with activity late last month, as the community gathered to take a swing, hit from the rough, and land the elusive hole in one to support “a cause close to many hearts”.
On March 22, the club played host to the Jo Kelly & Co Golf Charity Day in support of Hospice Wairarapa – which raised $20,000 “for important services that go straight back into the community,” chief executive Gretchen Saulbrey said.
The golf tournament came on the heels of a major donation from Masterton’s Magoos Street Rods – which raised close to $10,000 for Hospice during the 1933/34 Ford New Zealand Model 40 Convention, held earlier in March.
Saulbrey said the golf event was a “resounding success”: With “perfect weather”, 34 teams taking part, breakfast and dinner provided by Caveman BBQ, and a lively auction which raised “significant funds” for the charity.
“The day was not just about sports. It was a community effort to support those with life-limiting illnesses and their whānau,” she said.
“It was an absolute privilege to be part of it. There’s a huge amount of community spirit and generosity that goes into a day like this, and it all came together to make a great day out for all involved.
“Hospice looks forward to continuing this tradition next year, further supporting its invaluable work in the community.”
The tournament was sponsored by various Wairarapa businesses, including Rigg-Zschokke, Pak n Save Masterton, Martinborough Brewery, WBS, Mitre 10 Mega, and The Offering Greytown.
Saulbrey said funds raised will go towards funding Hospice’s social programmes: Such as in-home and caregiver support, spiritual care, family counselling and wellbeing therapies.
She was similarly grateful for Magoos Street Rods’ donation of $9,500 – which it raised with a charity auction and “show and shine” event as part of the Ford convention.
The convention celebrated the 90th anniversary of the 1934 Ford, and featured over 90 cars from around New Zealand.
“Our gratitude to everyone involved is huge. It’s so wonderful when businesses and the community work in such a positive way to help charities,” Saulbrey said.
The proceeds will go towards equipment allowing people to “stay as comfortable and mobile as possible in their own homes” at the end of life.
