Hundreds turn out for memorial golf day

HUNDREDS gathered at the Curlewis Golf Club on Sunday for the fifth annual Ryan Gatgens Memorial Golf Day.

While a full field of golfers made their way around the course, there was plenty of fun for children with jumping castles, mini golf, lawn games and more, while the adults enjoyed live music, a major raffle and auction.

Event organiser Daniel Driscoll said he was happy with the turnout of the event, and that the warm weather was not enough to keep people away.

“There would have been over 370 golfers and then hundreds of other people came down on the day and all the golfers stayed and all the partners and families and friends all hung around.

“We had plenty of spots in the air-con or shade for people to sit and relax and have their meals, down in the kids’ area we had a heap of shade options set up and it worked out really well.”

The memorial day is held in memory of Ryan Gatgens who passed away in 2019 after battling with his mental health.

While raising money for Hope Bereavement Care, organisers also aim to create some awareness around mental health challenges and help others realise there is help and support available.

Mr Driscoll said there was lots of talk around support throughout the day, helping to push the message.

“Ryan’s family spoke about that and tried to get the point across to all the people that were there that there’s so many options.

“It’s [the memorial day] just like a massive, reunion for all the Drysdale people and the local community, so I think it’s good in general that everyone gets together and chats and opens up a bit.”

Mr Driscoll thanked the volunteers and everyone who attended on the day.