February 05, 2026

Unconventional clubs, serious message: Gateways’ Charity Golf Day shines a light on inclusion gaps

 

Unconventional clubs, serious message: Gateways’ Charity Golf Day shines a light on inclusion gaps

This week, K rock 95.5 Morning presenters Tom and Loggy stepped onto the green at Clifton Springs Golf Club, not with standard golf clubs, but with cricket bats, tennis rackets and other unconventional sporting gear. The challenge? Attempting to putt using equipment not fit for purpose, all in support of people with disability. 

While the activity had everyone laughing, it also carried a deeper message. Just as trying to putt with the wrong equipment is tricky, sometimes almost impossible, people with disability often navigate a world that isn’t designed for them. Daily tasks, social expectations, and community activities can present barriers that many take for granted. Through humour and play, the putting clinic highlighted these challenges while celebrating the creativity, resilience and inclusion that make participation possible for many people living with disabilities.  

“It’s been a lot of fun, and surprisingly tricky!” Loggy said. “But it also made us think about how much effort goes into just participating when things aren’t built for you. It’s a great reminder of why days like this matter.” Tom added: “Supporting causes like this is important, and being part of it in a playful way really helps start important conversations.” 

The putting clinic was a prelude to Gateways’ 22nd Annual Charity Golf Day, an event that brings the community together to support people with disabilities and the programs that help them live the life they choose. 

Clifton Springs Golf Club professional Daniel Materazzo, who ran the clinic, said events like this show how important it is for communities to actively create opportunities and accessible spaces. 

“Accessible and inclusive communities don’t just happen; they take work, collaboration and commitment from everyone,” Mr Materazzo said. “Days like this are a reminder of why it’s so important to support each other, so that everyone has the chance to be part of community life, no matter their abilities.” 

Gateways CEO Rohan Braddy said the charity golf day helps provide the extras that aren’t covered by funding such as the NDIS, like experiences, facilities and opportunities that allow people with disability to fully participate in community life. 

“Events like this are about more than a game of golf; they’re an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and accessibility in our communities,” Mr Braddy said. “The funds raised then allow us to turn that awareness into action, creating spaces, programs and experiences that people with disability might not otherwise have access to. It’s a reminder that inclusion doesn’t just happen on its own, it takes commitment, effort and the support of the whole community.” 

The golf day itself, supported by a range of local businesses including LBW, Adroit, Gawk, Beyond Bank, will take place on Friday 27 February. Participants can enjoy an 18-hole Ambrose round of golf and all abilities putting clinic all in the spirit of raising awareness and funds to support people with disability.