Golf tournament provides much needed break

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The Gobbler Golf Course located on a farm in the Wairarapa played host to a golf tournament that got locals off the farm and enjoying a much-needed mental and physical break.

The tournament was organised by Mark Matchett from Turton Farm Supplies in Masterton who was motivated by a desire to do something positive for his customers – specifically farmers.

“In the past I’ve run events to look after our fencing contractors but hadn’t done anything for farmers so came up with the idea for a golf tournament for farmers,” Mark says.

“I wanted to give them a day off the farm. I floated the idea around and it sold itself and everybody had an absolute blast. The weather played ball, and it was an amazing success.”

Mark, an ex-dairy farmer, says he understands the challenges farmers face.

“I did it tough at times on isolated farms. It’s hard doing it by yourself so it’s good to help others out and get them off the farm and all talking to each other.

“I know how powerful a bit of human interaction can be when you’re isolated. It’s really important to keep talking with other people.”

Lots of enthusiasm for tournament

The tournament was held in February on Farmstrong champion Jamie Strang’s 9-hole golf course, the Gobbler Golf Course, which is located on his farm in the Wairarapa.

Ten teams of four members took part using the Ambrose golf format, which allows for inclusivity of all skill levels.

Participants also enjoyed a BBQ and a range of give aways, including Farmstrong goody bags.

“It was so popular we could’ve had more people. There was a lot of enthusiasm and room to grow it if it continues next year.”

Mark says the weather is a constant challenge in the region, particularly recently.

“Heaps of people have lost enormous numbers of trees. We get lots of droughts and then the cyclones so there’s a lot going on.

“Geographically it’s huge area so a lot of farmers are spread out and far away.”

Mark has recently finished his job at Turton Farm Supplies but hopes the tournament will carry on.

“I’ll be encouraging whoever takes over my position to pick it up. At Turtons we like to look after the people who look after us.”

Lock in breaks for wellbeing

Local Kotu Station sheep and beef farmer Simon Stevens took part in the golf tournament and says it allowed him to have a break from work and catch up with other like-minded people.

“It was great fun catching up with everyone and when you play golf you don’t need to think about too much else. It gets you out of your day-to-day stuff and is good for your head,” Simon says.

The region was hit hard by Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, including his own farm.

“After the cyclone a couple of guys were suffering and were down about it. We’ve personally been through a bit too. We lost our son to depression in 2014… it’s good to know the signs and make sure you’re looking after yourself and others.”

Simon, a keen golfer, says it can be hard to get off the farm but it’s important to lock in breaks and do something different.

“It’s pretty easy to stay at home churning away. Mark was great at organising the golf tournament and reminding people to come. It was a much-needed day out for everybody.”