This month the fruit of the initiative planted by businessmen Barry McEntee and Steve Jones, the Goulburn Invitational Charity Golf Day, will be harvested for the fifth time.

And those behind the ‘hit-and-giggle’ round of golf that doubles as a substantial fundraiser invite members of the public to join in on February 24 Since its inception, the Charity Golf Day has gathered money that’s assisted the Make a Wish Foundation, Goulburn Parkinson’s Support Group, The Crescent School, and 2010 flood victims, among others.

“In 2007, things were a lot different in Goulburn,” McEntee explains.

“There was a lot of doom and gloom caused by the drought. A few of us decided to do something positive.

“When there’s a disaster, communities tend to be very reactive, they’ll host fundraising events. We wanted to have some money on hand. That was the thought process behind it. And there was an immediate response.”

A drawcard of this year’s event is a sizeable sum of money up-for-grabs. An anonymous business has guaranteed a $20,000 cash prize for any player fortunate – or skilful – enough to nab a hole-in-one on the par three eighth at the Goulburn Golf Club.

The money is insured and will not be taken from the fundraising pool. While McEntee concedes it’s unlikely anyone can holeout for the big one, some players will walk away with a prize.

The three-ball Ambrose format incorporates nearest-thepin and longest drive competitions. The way the day’s arranged - including a barbecue, refreshments around the course and in the clubhouse, finger food and a presentation – is popular, McEntee says.

“It works well… some of the guys have played in the same groups over the years, and some ‘grudge’ matches have developed,” he said.

“The format is a good opportunity to network. It’s nothing too serious. It’s really just hit and giggle.

“At the end of the day, it’s a good cause and it’s good for Goulburn.”