RIDE THE WAVE FOR MND WITH GEOFF ODDY

From Geoff Oddy in his words - “One of the greatest days of my life with great support from great people!”

For those who don't know Geoff, he is a well-known community member of Dunsborough and Bunbury. Geoff was diagnosed with MND in August 2020. It is still quite raw for himself and his wife Robin and together we are joining to raise much needed funds and awareness for Motor Neurone Disease.

Geoff was on the judging panel of Surfing Western Australia for 30 years. He has been an active member of the Dunsborough And Districts Country Club , the Dunsborough Lakes Golf Club, was a member of the GeoCatch and is deputy chair of Busselton Water .

Geoff’s initial diagnosis was made on 27/8/2020 by Dr Davis Blacker and confirmed shortly thereafter following some further tests. He was referred to Dr Needham at Fiona Stanley Hospital on 12/11/2020 where the ALS type was confirmed and he was included in her management program.

OUR EVENT

A Swinging Success – Our 2021 Charity Golf Day at Dunsborough Lakes

On Saturday, 15th May 2021, we hosted an unforgettable day of golf, generosity, and community spirit at the beautiful Dunsborough Lakes Golf Club alongside our friend and guest of honour, Geoff and his wife Robyn. It was a day filled with heart, laughter and support thanks to the incredible turnout, we made a lasting impact.

From 11am, over 70 players arrived for a 12pm shotgun start 4ball Ambrose - team event. Despite some gusty conditions, teams hit the course with energy and enthusiasm, encouraged by on-course refreshments, spot prizes and plenty of camaraderie. A major thrill came from the hole-in-one challenge, proudly sponsored by PSC Reliance Insurance Brokers, giving two players the chance to win $20,000 each for that perfect shot.

Several generous local businesses sponsored tees and activations throughout the course:

  • Busselton Toyota – 1st Tee

  • Perkins – 4th Tee

  • The Apprenticeship Company – 9th Tee

  • South West Isuzu – 10th Tee

  • Calneggie Family Vineyard (C.F.V.) – 11th Tee

  • Rocky Ridge Brewing Co. and Swings & Roundabouts – 6th & 13th Tees

  • PSC Reliance Insurance Brokers - 14th Tee

  • Realmark – 16th Tee

While the golfers were on course, 63 guests gathered in the Lakes Tavern for a stunning sit-down luncheon. With the venue beautifully styled – featuring local foliage, artisan olive tastings from Olio Bello, and handmade golf ball chocolates with cornflowers at each setting – guests were treated to an afternoon of live music from Matt Valensi and Tom O’Brien, gourmet food, and generous hospitality.

Our charismatic MCs, Travis and Benda, kept the mood light with their humour and infectious energy.  Local MP Libby Mettam visited during the day to show her support and heartfelt guest speaker moments from Kirsten (Darren’s Ride) and Emma (Motor Neurone Disease WA) inspired and moved the room.

The silent auction, live auctions, and door prizes raised critical funds for the cause, while food and drinks flowed thanks to the support of Get Pickled and Get Shucked, Shallows Cold Brew who also offered tastings throughout the event.

As the sun set, the clubrooms transformed for the evening event. Guests were welcomed with drinks on arrival before the night officially kicked off with acknowledgements, thanks and continued entertainment. A standout performance by Ornella set the tone for the night, followed by more inspiring words from Emma and Kirsten, a final live auction, and fantastic live sets from Peter, and closing acts Mitch & Evan, keeping the crowd dancing well into the night.

We were also honoured to have our ambassador, Ben Stratton, join us for the day and evening, spending time with guests, showing his support and helping raise awareness for this heartfelt cause.

From early morning set-up to late-night music, the 2021 Charity Golf Day was a huge success – a day full of generosity, community, and connection. We are incredibly grateful to all who attended, donated, performed, volunteered or contributed in any way.

Above all, we thank Geoff, whose strength and courage were at the heart of the entire event.

Together, we truly made a difference.

 
Melanie Watts