Taking A Swing At Ovarian Cancer: Diesel Dirt & Turf Charity Golf Day

The Diesel Dirt & Turf (DDT) annual charity golf day, sponsored by Digga, was in full swing last week. Held at Twin Creeks Golf and Country Club, more than 130 participants all teed off to raise money for the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation (OCRF).

The charity is very close to the hearts of the event organiser as well as the event sponsor, Digga, whose CEO and managing director, Suzie Wright, sadly passed away from ovarian cancer last year.

“At Digga we have given to many different charities over the years. But we’ve made the decision that ovarian cancer research is our cause now. We’re very grateful to be given the ability to select the charity for this event,” says Lionel Smitka, Digga Marketing Manager. “The OCRF are fantastic people and it’s a great cause that’s close to many of us at Digga and within the wider industry.”

Machines4U director, Steve Krebs, along with one of our account managers, Jade Flack, attended the event and are proud to be contributing to a great cause.

Machines4U are proud supporters of the Diesel Dirt & Turf expo, attending the expo for the last 3 years and becoming Gold Media Sponsor for both 2018 and 2019.

The day began with breakfast, followed by a putting competition. As the last competitor, Karl Corry from Okuma, stepped onto the green and hit his ball, everyone gasped.

“The last guy got a hole in one! Couldn’t believe it. We were just like—well that’s it, comp’s over!” laughed Jade.

After the putting comp, everyone got ready for the 18-hole course, followed by a sit-down lunch and presentation.

“We had a great time playing the 18. There are so many great people in our industry and it’s always nice to come together. Especially to raise money and awareness for something that impacts so many women and their families across Australia,” said Steve.

A Huge Success

Everyone felt the success of the day, participants and organisers alike.

“We’re extremely happy how the day turned out,” says Lionel. “The numbers were well up an extra 50 golfers from last year, with over 130 golfers and 50 prizes that were raffled away. And to top it off, it looks like we’ll have raised around $32,000 which is just incredible for a single-day event.”

It’s a wonderful thing when an industry rallies together for a cause. The DDT annual golf day was no different.

“The earthmoving industry is so generous, like you wouldn’t believe. Pretty much every company involved donated prizes or similar to auction or raffle off. During the day they bought thousands of raffle tickets and donated an incredible amount of money,” Lionel said.

“Even Clint Stanaway from Channel 9 donated his time to come down and MC the event. It’s truly remarkable. We’re thankful the organiser of DDT gave us the opportunity to choose our own charity and have that charity be the beneficiary of this event.”

Putting For Ovarian Cancer Research

As they state on their website, the OCRF is Australia’s leading independent body dedicated to national ovarian cancer research. Their goal is to raise awareness and vital research funds for the development of an early detection test.

“Unfortunately by the time a diagnosis occurs, it’s usually too late. There are no early detection tests. So we at Digga want to help the OCRF find a solution for the prevention and early detection of ovarian cancer,” says Lionel.

The OCRF receive no government funding. Instead relying solely on the support of businesses and the broader community, and events like the DDT annual golf day.

Donations over $2 are tax deductible, so why not make a contribution to the cause today.