MORE than 100 golfers got into the spirit of fund-raising at the Peregian Springs golf club recently, where $7800 was raised in a wine auction to buy a lifesaving stretcher.
The recent death of a club stalwart was a stark reminder of how difficult it can be for an ambulance to reach an injured or ill golfer on a course, and prompted the golfers into action.
Over 300 bottles of wine and spirits were donated for the auction that saw generous bids from a small cask of red wine, which sold for $110, to a bottle of 2001 Vintage Dom Perignon champagne, which sold for $190.
The combination of great weather, a round of golf and a member’s lunch, proved a good mix for raising the much-needed funds for the stretcher.
The customised stretcher is designed to fit on a golf buggy and help transport sick or injured players to the clubhouse to receive treatment.
Only $3500 was needed to buy the stretcher, the club will now decide on what other medical equipment is needed for the club.
The event was organised by Peregian Springs’ golf club regulars, The Dirty Dozen, who often play together.
Dirty Dozen member Jilly Innes said the club members came to together for the event, fund-raising in memory of one of their own who had died “playing the sport he loved”.