Axedale’s own marathon golfers, Greg Hamilton and Owen Davies – aka the Axedale Hammies - contributed $3072 of that pool thanks to the generosity of club members.

It placed Axedale as the 15th largest fundraiser statewide.

“We were blown away by the support,” said Hamilton, ironically given the severe storm that trashed the course the day before the boys’ 72-hole epic.

“We had no idea how the fundraiser would go and so we tentatively nominated a thousand dollars as our target.

“To triple that was amazing.”

The Hammies thanked all who supported them in an event that raised a lot of interest among members.

“In particular Geoff Kerr from Rivergate Wines and Dennis Higgins from Ida’s Crossing who generously provided the major raffle prizes,” Davies said.

“The raffle contributed $786.

“We were also rapt with the morale boost provided by members who turned up unannounced on the day to caddy for us.

“Lex Johnstone was there at 6am before work and then again after work as we completed the last round.

“President Andy Watson and our Ambrose mates Roger Heider and Daryl Fleay all gave up their time.

“Thanks also to my wife Pam for our lunch and to the Axedale ladies for cheering us up 18 a couple of times.”

The golf itself was quick and unspectacular - no time for lining up putts.

The boys hit off at 5.45am, had two rounds done by 10.30 morning tea, stopped for lunch at 1.30pm after the 54th, and sank the final putt - a par on 18 - right on 5pm.

Scores were moderate, with both players aggregating just under 120 stableford points over the 72 holes.

And the final verdict?

“It was great fun and very rewarding to be able to raise so much for a worthwhile cause,” Hamilton said.

“It would be nice to think we can get a few more members involved this year and have it become an annual event where we as a club can contribute to the wider community.”