Foundation prepares to tee off

REGISTRATIONS are still open for teams of four to join this year’s golf day fundraiser for the Otis Foundation.

The foundation was established in Bendigo over 20 years ago and provides free retreats for people with breast cancer and their loved ones.

CEO Claire Culley said money raised from the 27 March event will go towards continuing support of no-cost accommodation.

“We have retreats and properties all throughout Australia and the aim is we can provide time and space for people with breast cancer,” she said.

“The other benefit [of the golf day] is that we get to meet new people who may actually have properties that they would like to loan to us. “

In the past, the day has raised anywhere between $5000 to $12,000 but following the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the foundation is this year aiming for a target of $3000 to $5000.

However, fundraising officer Almila Bailey-Erturk said the benefits of the day are more than just financial.

“We can’t put a figure on the awareness that it raises as well, especially within the local Bendigo community. It’s invaluable to us,” she said.

The day will include barbecues, evening canapes and prizes with the help of local businesses, with the Bendigo Golf Club providing their course free of charge.

The club’s golf operations manager Liam Carney said the organisation was happy to support the event and encouraged anyone to join in.

“It’s an Ambrose event that they play which is a great social experience for all levels of golfer. You don’t have to be an A-grade golfer,” he said.

To register a team, visit the Otis Foundation’s website.