Tee-rific charity golf day fundraiser
Module Overview
An annual charity golf tournament held at Wairakei Golf + Sanctuary in Taupō has raised an incredible $75,000 for Farmstrong.
The tournament was hosted this year by PTS Logistics after the company took over from Norwood, which had been running it since 2019.
Held on 21 November, the tournament attracted 110 keen golfers, most of whom are connected to the farming and agricultural industries.
Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock and former All Black Christian Cullen also took part in the tournament.
PTS Logistics CEO Ray Roberts attended and says the day went “swimmingly well” and was a huge success.
“To be able to raise $75,000 for Farmstrong, particularly in this tough economic climate, was wonderful,” he says.
The day of golf was followed by a presentation of golf prizes, a panel discussion, sit-down dinner and charity auction.
The panel discussion featured Sam and Christian and was facilitated by media personality Hamish McKay.
“Everybody really enjoyed the panel discussion,” Ray says.
Carrying on the good work
Ray says PTS Logistics had been a long-time supporter of the event before stepping in to take over the running of it.
“It was an easy decision for us. We wanted the tournament to keep going and to continue the good work done by Norwood. It’s such a good cause and a good fit for us,” Ray says.
PTS Logistics has supported the tournament in previous years by entering teams and donating and bidding for items in the auction.
“It’s great to be able to support farmers in their time of need. There’s so much more understanding now about the importance of mental health.”
Bringing people together for good cause
The weather was changeable on the day, but that didn’t slow anybody down.
“The weather fitted well with how your mental health can be. One day can be good, and the next day not so good.”
While there was some friendly competition on the green, Ray says the tournament is a vehicle to get people together for a good cause.
“That’s the most important thing, and much bigger than the score card.”
He says it was great to see people getting together, making new connections and networking.
“To have the event such a success, means we have people committed to doing it again next year.”
Funds help Farmstrong make a difference
Farmstrong Programme Director Gerard Vaughan says it was humbling as a member of the Farmstrong team to experience the level of support from all those who attended the event.
“PTS Logistics did an amazing job of both creating a fun and friendly day and also of securing sponsors and raising an incredible $75,000 for Farmstrong,” Gerard says.
“In 2024, our annual survey found that 15,500 farmers and growers attributed an improvement in their wellbeing to engaging with Farmstrong.
“Fundraising donations such as that raised by PTS Logistics enables us to keep our tools and resources free so we can make a difference for even more farmers and growers moving forward.”
