General News
21 January, 2026
Timboon golfers go the distance
GOLFERS, supporters and volunteers gathered at the Timboon Golf Club before dawn on Sunday, January 4 for the third annual Longest Day Golf Challenge, raising more than $6000 for Cancer Council research, prevention and support services.
Hosted jointly by Timboon and District Health Service (TDHS) and Timboon Golf Club, the Longest Day is an endurance golf event which challenges players to complete up to 72 holes from sunrise to sunset in a single day.
The challenge has officially raised more than $24,000 in total over three years.
Twenty-one players across six teams arrived at 5.30am to begin the day with a bacon and egg breakfast, prepared by long-time club volunteer Judy Delaney, before teeing off at first light around 6am.
Players faced a demanding schedule with each 18-hole round taking more than three hours to complete.
“Despite the physical challenge, conditions were ideal, with mild temperatures in the mid-20s and minimal wind throughout the day,” TDHS health promotion officer Christie Berry said.
“Participants were seen sharing laughs and encouragement across the course, with many players walking the full distance – covering up to 40 kilometres over the course of the day.
“Determination remained strong as teams pushed through fatigue to support one another in completing the challenge.”
The final team completed their 72 holes at approximately 6.30pm, greeted by cheers from fellow players, friends and family.
“Emotions ran high as the group celebrated the achievement, reflecting the personal meaning the event held for many participants,” Ms Berry said.
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Meals throughout the day were provided by TDHS, helping sustain the golfers as they tackled the demanding event.
Prizes were awarded at the conclusion of play, recognising individual performances and milestones.
Cancer Council ambassador and former AFL player Ben Cunnington returned to Timboon to take part, playing alongside family and friends.
A cancer survivor himself, Mr Cunnington participated in as many holes as he was able, drawing encouragement from supporters including his wife and grandmother.
Despite ongoing health challenges during 2025, his involvement highlighted the personal connection many players have to the cause.
Results included the overall winner Darren Smith with 151 points, with round winners Jack Rowe (42 points), Sam Cunnington (39), Andy Chambers (43) and Judy Delaney (39).
Nearest-the-pin winners included Darren Smith, Ben Saunders and Judy Delaney, who also recorded a hole-in-one.
At the time of publication, the Timboon event has raised $6350 for Cancer Council Victoria.
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