The Tatalia Function Room at Rich River Golf Club was packed on Wednesday night for the ultimate sportsman's night, with some of the biggest names in the sporting industry delivering one of the biggest social events in the twin towns’ history.
The likes of Jason Dunstall, Merv Hughes, Ben Dixon, Mark McClure and Tony Jewell followed a day on the golf course with stories of the past, opinions on modern sport, and sharing a drink with members of the local community.
The celebrities gave up their time for free thanks to the hard work of Hawthorn legend Gary Buckenara, with patrons paying for a day on the golf course, a seat at the dinner, and bidding on a series of auction items, with all proceeds going towards a campaign to drive tourism back to the twin towns.
Jason Dunstall said it was an honour to be involved.
“The best way to describe my game today would be erratic at best,” he said of his day on the course.
“But we had a great day for a fantastic cause. We all know how hard small businesses in particular have done it through the closure.
“Tourism in this area generates so much for everybody, and we need to encourage everyone to take their opportunities to come back to this great community.
“If we can do a small part in driving people back to the area, then it has been well worth it.”
Merv Hughes agreed.
“It's a great initiative,” he said.
“Obviously people have done it tough, there is no clear cut finish line and so many businesses — especially in accommodation — have been suffering.
“So to be able to come out here and even do our small part is something we are really excited to do. It's a great part of the world, I love coming up here and I hope to see more people make the journey.”
Rich River marketing manager and event co-organiser Paul Lavars said the event could not have gone better.
"The celebrities have put on a great show for us, it was a load of fun,” he said.
"It's been a tough few months, so to have a day like this, which has been an opportunity to just have a bit of fun, it's really great.
"We can't thank Gary Buckenara enough for all of this, for everything he's done to help us. We now have an opportunity to get the message out there about what our towns have to offer and to get people back to our community."
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