Bass Coast Health (BCH) has thanked the local community after it raised $31,000 for a camera for the early detection of prostate and bladder cancers.
The funds were raised at the 2024 BCH Fundraiser Golf Ball Drop and Ambrose Golf Day at Wonthaggi Golf Club on Sunday November 17.
The successful event was held by Melissa Stirton of Headlines Hairdressing, Wonthaggi; Allison Adams of Revive Beauty and Spa, Wonthaggi; and Michael and Sue Turton of The Cape Tavern, Cape Paterson, as part of their ongoing annual fundraising for BCH.
BCH Interim Chief Executive Officer, Professor Simone Alexander, said BCH was proud to be so well supported by the community.
"To know so many people attended this event, and to know that so many others have given towards this fundraiser, is heart-warming," she said.
"Funds raised by our community enable us to buy more equipment and provide more services to the people of Bass Coast and South Gippsland.
"We're also so grateful to Melissa, Alison, and Michael and Sue for the fabulous work they do in arranging major fundraisers for BCH.
"This year, their efforts may well save lives as without their fundraising, we would not be able to buy the specialised camera that will help our clinicians detect prostate and bladder cancers. Early detection and treatment of cancers is critical to ensuring the best outcome."
The fundraiser featured a golf ball drop and an ambrose golf event. To take part in the drop, people bought a golf ball for $50. All balls were dropped from a 30-foot-high bucket raised by a cherry picker and the ball that fell into the winning hole resulted in the purchaser winning $2500.
Eight extra holes contained cash prizes. The major prize was won by Ross McKenzie and minor prizes were won by Tracey Finlay, Suzie Martin, Robyn Hodson, Geoff Turner, Jean Jackson, Andrea Earl, Ray Rust and Anne Westaway. The ambrose event was contested by 104 players who endured humidity, pouring tropical rain and cold wind. Everyone returned wet but in good spirits, and was treated to a barbecue lunch donated by the Wonthaggi Club.
The winners of the first prize of a dinner for eight with drinks at The Cape Tavern were Sev Sherrin, Dave Sheldon, Dean Chambers and Brett Tessari.
Speaking on behalf of the fundraiser organisers, Melissa Stirton said they were touched by the community's willingness to donate.
"Year after year, individuals and businesses from throughout the Bass Coast and beyond are so quick to give to the fundraisers we organise," she said.
"That shows how proud people are to have a public health service like Bass Coast Health ready to care for them, their families and their friends when they are needed. Thank you to everyone for the support and for helping to make this event so successful."