Club Members Rally for Families in Need

In the face of increasing cost-of-living pressures, the upcoming festive season and an underlying presence of domestic violence in the local area, Catalina Club called upon the Club’s members to Make A Wish and donate any Catalina Rewards points to Southern Women’s Group.

Thanks to the selflessness of Catalina Club’s members, the Club was able to provide $2519 which has been delivered directly to several families and individuals experiencing domestic and family violence.

For more than 40 years, Southern Women’s Group has been providing essential services to women living locally that have been affected by violence. 

Samantha Monck, the Southern Women’s Group Domestic Violence Prevention Manager, said her team had seen an approximate 16 per cent increase in calls for support during the holiday season compared to last year.

Every dollar donated by members was converted to gift cards valued at approximately $200, which allowed families to buy essential items and Christmas gifts to help make the festive season safe and enjoyable.

“Thanks to the generosity of the members and guests of Catalina Club, we are able to offer far more than financial support,” says Samantha.

“This gift carries something deeply meaningful; the feeling of being seen, heard and believed in. It restores dignity and provides families with the chance to celebrate Christmas with their children, free from at least some of the worry and stress they carry every day.”

One woman who received funding said the gift arrived at the perfect time, saying it had “saved” her in a moment of need.

Throughout November and December, hundreds of Catalina Club members and visitors donated their Catalina Rewards points or cash, and submitted their “wishes” for Christmas, the future, their community and the world. Every written wish was hung on Catalina’s Wish Tree, transforming the ninth green on the golf course into a bright and eye-catching scene.

With hundreds of tags swaying in the breeze, Make A Wish acted as a conversation starter to those on the golf course or dining in the clubhouse and aided awareness to domestic violence in the local area.

It coincided with the global 16 Days of Activism campaign which strives to end gender-based violence. Southern Women’s Group spearheads this campaign each year to bring domestic violence to light.

“We know that the financial strain of Christmas does not end when the decorations come down. For many families, it continues well into the months ahead. This support makes a lasting difference, helping families move forward with hope during what can be an incredibly challenging time,” says Samantha.

“The team at Southern Women’s Group extends our heartfelt gratitude to Catalina Club and its members and guests for recognising the needs within our community and for their continued compassion and commitment to support organisations and individuals when they need it most.”

Anyone in need of support can contact 1800WDVCAS (1800 938 227) or the national 24/7 support line, 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Support the work of Southern Women’s Group – donate here.