Mount Hagen Golf Club has recorded a historic fundraising achievement, raising K1.352 million towards the construction of a security fence around its golf course.
The fundraising golf tournament, held at the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club on Friday, attracted about 40 corporate teams and received strong backing from government leaders, corporate organisations, businesses and the golfing community.
Prime Minister James Marape contributed K100,000, which was donated to the Mount Hagen Golf Club, while Ela Motors donated K50,000.
Hagen Open MP and Minister for State Enterprises Hon. William Duma made the biggest commitment, pledging K1 million towards the fencing project.
Private lawyer Tony Noki pledged K10,000, while businessman Wemin Kawale and ASAP Finance pledged K20,000.
The auction of 10 items raised a combined K30,000, while sponsors contributed another K2,000 towards the Nearest the Pin competition.
Around 40 teams took part in the tournament, with their registration fees also contributing significantly towards the overall amount raised.
The K1.352 million raised is a significant fundraising achievement for the Mount Hagen Golf Club, providing the financial backing needed to progress its plans for proper security fencing around the course.
The fencing project is aimed at improving security and restoring confidence among golfers, businesses and visitors, while creating a safer environment for major golfing tournaments in Mount Hagen.
In another major boost for golf in Western Highlands Province, Ela Motors announced during the presentation that it will sponsor the famous Hagen Open from next year.
Mount Hagen Golf Club President and owner of Togoba Coffee and Giru Construction, Mr Fred Koldop, expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister James Marape, Minister for State Enterprises and Hagen Open MP Hon. William Duma, Ela Motors, sponsors, corporate organisations, participating teams, individual supporters and the organising committee for making the fundraiser a success.
Mr Koldop also extended special appreciation to the Royal Port Moresby Golf Club for hosting the tournament and making its course and facilities available, saying its support and hospitality contributed greatly to the success of the event.
He said the overwhelming support demonstrated what could be achieved when government, the private sector, businesses and the sporting community worked together towards a common goal.
The successful fundraising drive now places the Mount Hagen Golf Club in a stronger position to secure and improve its course, attract more golfers and businesses back to the club, and strengthen Mount Hagen’s position as an important golfing destination in Papua New Guinea.