Three local charities have benefited from the Corrective Services NSW Golf Championships, which were held in Cessnock in November.
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More than 140 golfers competed in the two-day tournament at Cessnock Golf Club in November.
A total of $8000 was raised through a big raffle with prizes donated by local sponsors.
Donations were presented to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Coalfields Cancer Support Group and Jodie’s Place women’s and children’s refuge last week.
Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service community liaison officer Adam Tyrrell said the organisation relies heavily on community support.
“About 60 per cent of our funding comes from the community, and because of that, no-one ever pays when they have to be airlifted,” he said.
“Every dollar that comes through our doors is greatly appreciated.”
Jodie’s Place coordinator Paula Mudd said the refuge was thrilled to receive the donation.
“It helps us keep our doors open,” she said.
A Cessnock-based organisation, Coalfields Cancer Support Group’s donations go directly to the cancer research department at Calvary Mater Newcastle.
“Lots of our money goes towards equipment, which can be quite expensive,” the group’s chairperson Marie Main said.
The Corrective Services NSW Golf Championships have been running for more than 30 years. The event is held in a different town every year, generally in a region with a correctional centre and organised by staff from that centre.
The 2016 golf day was organised by Cessnock Correctional Centre staff Alan Provenzano, Rob Daniels, Gary Morris and Jeff Kellehear.
“It's great to be part of a team that has been able to contribute to some local community organisations,” Mr Provenzano said.
The organising committee thanked the sponsors for contributing to the event’s success.
“Strong support from local businesses has put us in a good position to give to the three organisations, plus we had great support from the venue itself,” Mr Daniels said.