The day was held in the memory of Ryder Jack Manulat, who passed away suddenly in June after being struck down by meningococcal disease.

One hundred and twenty players took part in the golf day with all proceeds going towards supporting children living with Down syndrome in the Hunter Valley as well as other charities.

Ryder’s mother Merran said that the total amount raised was three times what they had been expecting, with the auction items alone making over $30,000.

She said that many people have already said they want to contribute again, with the hopes that the event will become an annual occurrence.