COVID-19 has been the primary focus for many the last few months, but locals Cynthia and Paul Younie haven't forgotten those who are still rebuilding after the bushfires tore through communities only a few months ago.
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To that end, they staged a 9-hole four-person Ambrose men's golf competition at Kempsey Veterans Golf Club to help those affected by the fires.
Paul, who is also Captain of the Willawarrin Rural Fire Brigade, was adamant the day was about more than just golf though.
"The idea was to get the men out and give them a fun day so they can focus on something else, a lot of fellas tend to bottle everything up," he said.
"It didn't matter if you couldn't play golf, it was about helping with the health and well-being of local men in the wake of the bushfires.
"Overall, it was very successful; there were a lot of smiles, laughter and some very positive feedback."
Coordinator Cynthia was instrumental in organising the day, and with the support of local businesses, she was thrilled with how the event turned out.
"It was fantastic; Rotary cooked the barbecue, council paid for the meat, Cavanagh's sent buses, the golf club provided carts, clubs and balls," she said.
"Our major supporter was the Australian Red Cross Kempsey, without them, and the support of all these local businesses, the event couldn't have taken place."
After the competition was finished, it was back to the Willawarrin Hotel for the presentation, prawns, beer, and plenty of good yarns about the day.
The men enjoyed the everything so much that there has been talk of making this an annual event.
- Cynthia Younie
"The presentation was proudly supported by Willawarrin publicans Karen and Gordon who have done some much for the upper Macleay communities," Cynthia said.
"The men were also treated to a feast of prawns which were provided by Coastal Fresh Seafoods along with six gift vouchers."
The winners were:
- Happy Gilmore - Chris
- Bear in the woods - Steve
- Gone fishing - Phil
- Looking for ball in the tree - Rod
- Bradman award for most hits - Rob and Larry.
Macleay Welding and Engineering provided prize money and trophies which saw the three teams recognised for their skill.
The team of Gordon, Craig, Mick and Reg came in first place, followed by Kym, Darren, Tom and Craig in second. In third, were Nat, Paul and Sean.
The response to the event was so overwhelmingly positive, that Cynthia and Paul are already looking to the future.
"The men enjoyed the everything so much that there has been talk of making this an annual event," Cynthia said.
"I am also planning to organise a few more events for the women, children and teenagers in the coming months; however, that will now depend on how long the COVID-19 lock down lasts."
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