Busselton Jetty Charity Golf Day raises funds for cancer research

Busselton Jetty may hold the key to curing cancer, thanks to a successful Busselton Jetty Charity Golf Day held September 13 at the Busselton Golf Club.

Last week’s friendly competition with 148 players supported raising vital funds for marine science research trials by University of Western Australia’s marine pharmacology department.

UWA Marine Chemist Dr Darren Holden and former WA Chief Scientist Professor Lyn Beazley attended the Golf Day and explained to golfers they had been integral to further development and exploration of anti-cancer compounds found in unique sponges that thrive under the Jetty’s pylons.

148 golfers supported the fundraising effort for marine science research trials at Busselton Jetty. Pictures by Abby Murray Photography.

“Research into sponges such as Phorbas has already shown promising biological activity, and this event will help support ongoing work toward finding cancer-fighting solutions,” Professor Beazley said.

“Sponges have natural repellent properties and have already been found to kill cancer cells in petri dish preliminary trials.”

Winners of the event included Wade Mackintosh from Cottesloe Golf Club, the father-and-son team Tim Ginnane and Kody Ginnane, and Nathan Shreeve.

Although no one managed to claim the Hole-in-One grand prize-a Quintrex Boat, generously sponsored by Muir’s Marine, three players managed to land within 3 metres of the hole, and 38 players walked away with prizes including first to fifth place, novelties, last and best dressed teams and individuals.

BJI Chair Dr Natasha Teakle said the event would not have been possible without the generous support of major sponsors including Muir Marine, Retravision, Shelter Brewing Co., Bizlinq, Bendigo Bank, minor sponsors Juice Print, Hello World Dunsborough and Triple M plus all 18 hole sponsors.

“This was our inaugural golf day event for the Busselton Jetty Environment Foundation and was so successful with everyone having such a great time, we hope to make it an annual event,” Dr Teakle said.