Charity Golf Tournament Set to Support Dunedin Community House

A charity golf tournament at St Clair Golf Club is scheduled for November 28, 2023, to raise funds for Dunedin Community House. The event, played in an ambrose format, invites teams of four to participate. While some entries will be accepted on the day, organizers encourage individuals to register their teams in advance to ensure participation.

Community Support and Facilities

Rob Riddell Tigeir, the executive officer of Dunedin Community House, highlighted the significant impact of the community center’s modern facilities located at 43 Princes St. He noted, “The more modern premises is fantastic, not having to worry when the roof leaks, when it rains.” The upgraded center serves approximately 21 long-term tenants and accommodates 140 different groups that utilize various shared spaces for meetings, training sessions, and more casual gatherings.

The center has seen a surge in demand for bookable spaces, with Dunedin Community House providing affordable rates for non-profit organizations. “We are busier than we have ever been — we have got more organizations, more bookings, and more hours booked. In fact, we have just created a new meeting room because demand has been so high,” Riddell Tigeir stated.

Challenges and Fundraising Efforts

Despite the increased activity, Dunedin Community House faces ongoing financial pressures. Electricity costs have risen by about 30% in the past two years, and securing grant funding remains a challenge. As a result, fundraising events like the charity golf tournament are “absolutely crucial,” according to Riddell Tigeir.

He emphasized the importance of support from sponsors such as Ricoh, stating, “Every dollar that [sponsor] Ricoh manages to raise for us reduces the cost for all of those organizations.” The funds raised will directly benefit current and future users of the facility, helping to lower costs for those who wish to access the shared spaces.

Participants in the golf tournament can look forward to raffles and spot prizes, adding an element of excitement to the day. The tournament will kick off with a shotgun start at 11:30 AM, and those interested in joining the event can register at dch.org.nz/golf.

This charity initiative not only aims to support the operational costs of Dunedin Community House but also reinforces the community’s commitment to providing valuable resources for local organizations.