Published Monday 4 July 2016

THE Danny Tutavake Charity Golf Day was an overwhelming success on Friday with over $30,000 raised.

The day began with a field of 72 golfers teeing off at the revamped Mirage Country Club - with Newsport being an official sponsor - and was followed by a luncheon attended by a capacity 250 people at The Glade, Sheraton Mirage's corporate events venue.

Event organiser Adam Calcraft said the fundraiser had exceeded expectations and was destined to become an annual event in some capacity.

“We have managed to raise a massive $30,000 which is much more than we had anticipated,” Calcraft said.

“We truly are overwhelmed by the support and it just goes to show what can be achieved when you rally together.

“The support from everyone has been incredible and it was a fantastic day had by all.”

Former Australian Wallaby Gary Pearse was MC for the luncheon, which included a host of guest speakers and even a hypnotist.

Sporting memorabilia and other items were auctioned off to help raise much needed funds for Tutavake, who was left a paraplegic following spinal damage caused by a tackle while playing for the Innisfail Vikings last year.

Calcraft said it was great to see such a diverse mix of people attending.

“We had different sections of the business community, tradespeople, players from different sports and husbands and wives all mixing together as one,” Calcraft said.

“Everyone was in such high spirits and it made the day so enjoyable and we can’t thank everyone enough.”