Scouts to benefit from tournament

Preparing for the annual Cromwell Lions Golden Golf event are (from left) sponsor ITM Southern...
Preparing for the annual Cromwell Lions Golden Golf event are (from left) sponsor ITM Southern Lakes manager Craig Franklin, Cromwell Golf Club manager Jolanda Foale, Cromwell Lions Club president Chris Mann and Cromwell Scout Group leader Robyn Mexted. The group will be the recipient of the money raised at this year’s event on November 10.PHOTO: JULIE ASHER
It sounds like a conjuring trick of epic proportions — how to turn a golf game into a new Scout den?

But Cromwell Lions know how, and on November 10 will do just that when the Southern Lakes ITM Lions Golden Golf Tournament tees off.

President Chris Mann said the tournament was held regularly from the 1980s, but focus had drifted from it until last year.

The Cromwell Rowing Club was the beneficiary last year, and more than $47,000 was raised for a new boat.

Cromwell Scouts leader Robyn Mexted said they were thrilled to be chosen to benefit from the tournament this year, as their den was run-down and outdated.

There were 51 youth members, boys and girls, ranging in age from 5-17, and 12 adult members, who were either leaders or group associates, she said.

Some potential group activities had been hampered by the den’s condition.

"The den is pretty much falling down. We have talked about fixing it since my daughter was 5. She is now 21," Mrs Mexted said.

The comprehensive renovation project aimed to modernise the building, enhance safety and improve accessibility, while preserving the den’s valued heritage.

Southern Lakes ITM manager Craig Franklin said the company owners saw the project as great opportunity to give back to the community they operated in.

"It’s a great cause," he said.

The upgrade would cost more than $100,000.

Lions Golden Golf Tournament will tee off at Cromwell Golf Course on November 10.