A significant gathering of over 100 golf enthusiasts, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, took place at the St John Ambulance Charity Golf event in Vatuwaqa, Suva. The tournament, which was brought back last year after a lengthy hiatus, served as a fundraising initiative for the nonprofit organization.
St John Council member Isoa Gavidi noted that while the event was primarily social, its underlying purpose was to benefit the organization’s mission. St John focuses on serving humanity through ambulance services and first aid training, relying heavily on fundraising efforts despite receiving some government funding. Gavidi pointed out that golf is an effective fundraising tool due to its popularity among businesspeople, potentially attracting substantial corporate contributions.
Sponsored by B. Prasad & Sons Pte Ltd, the charity event followed an ambrose format. The winning team would receive four return tickets to any Fiji Airways destination, adding competitive excitement to the philanthropic occasion.
This event aligns with other recent fundraising golf tournaments in Fiji, reflecting a growing trend of using sports as a vehicle for charity. Previous similar events, such as those hosted by the Rotary Club of Suva and the Fiji Society for the Blind, also successfully combined community engagement, competition, and philanthropy. These initiatives have significantly contributed to local health improvement projects, demonstrating the impactful role of such events in fostering community spirit and unity.
In essence, the St John Ambulance Charity Golf not only highlighted the positive intersection of sport and philanthropy but also emphasized the importance of community involvement in supporting vital non-profit services. With continued support, such events can effectively address financial needs while promoting camaraderie and goodwill among participants.
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