Western District agents join forces for cancer centre

The Hamilton and District Stock Agents Association (HDSAA), in conjunction with the Hamilton Golf Club, is conducting a charity golf tournament next month on Friday, September 21, with hopes to raise $20,000 for the cause.

And it’s a cause close to the hearts of many stock agents, according to HDSAA secretary Bernie Porter.

“There have been a few stock agents over the years that have died from cancer,” Mr Porter said.

“It’s something that’s close to us all, so anything we can do to raise money to help the next person, we’ll certainly put our hands up to do it.”

He said there are already 36 teams of four enrolled to participate, including representatives from seven stock agencies in the Hamilton region.

“It didn’t take much arm twisting, being a small community, everyone jumps in and helps out when they can, especially for the hospital,” he said.

“We are one of the biggest industries in the area, so if we put our hands up to be involved, a lot of people will take notice, and hopefully get involved too.”

The full-day event will see a range of companies sponsor the cost of a hole, which is where the majority of the funds will come from.

The WDHS has been raising funds for its new facility for three years, and through donations from the local community, has so far raised over $1.9 million.

The centre is anticipated to open for patients in the coming weeks, with the total cost expected to be just under $2 million, which is where the extra funds raised from the HDSAA’s event will come in handy.

The money has gone to providing a light-filled, spacious chemotherapy and dialysis treatment area, new hospital admissions office and waiting area, specialist consult rooms and a dedicated pharmacy.

WDHS chief executive Rohan Fitzgerald said the support received so far by the local community has been astounding.

“We are very grateful to the HDSAA and our local agents and rural businesses for getting behind this much needed redevelopment to support the delivery of services close to home,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

“The golf day is another great example of our wonderful community’s willingness to help others, with over 140 agents and friends teeing off and getting active to support people with cancer and on dialysis in our region.”

There will also be items available for auction on the day, as well as a raffle, with all funds contributing to the donated total.