Golfers tee off in support of charities and support groups

CHARITIES for the homeless and people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction will be the $10,000 beneficiaries of the annual John Mitchell Charity Golf Day.

The Lennox Head Lions Club has been running the event for more than a decade, with an 18-hole Ambrose competition to be held at Byron Bay Golf Club on Sunday, August 17.

This year it will raise vital funds for Fletcher Street Cottage and the Buttery at Binna Burra.

The Buttery assists people living with alcohol and substance abuse issues recover and rebuild their lives. It also offers mental health support, while Fletcher Street Cottage requires ongoing assistance to help run its programs for the homeless.

The Lions club has supported numerous charities and community groups in need of support.

“We receive emails almost every week of people asking for assistance with donations or a barbecue,” Lennox Lions Club member Wayne Blackie said.

“John Mitchell was one of our members who passed away a few years ago and he started it off.

“We keep it going to honour his name while helping out people in need.

“He has family members who play each year which makes it pretty special, too.”

Byron Bay has hosted the event for the last four years, with businesses across the region making donations to it.

The Lions club is active in the lead-up with door knocking and appeals for people to donate towards the prizes and giveaways.

“You don’t have to be a great golfer, most people are happy to come along and be a chance at winning a raffle or prize,” Blackie said.

“We’re really fortunate with the support, they usually ring up and book straight away once we announce the date.”

Anyone wanting to enter a team can ring the golf club directly on 6685 6470.