What started as a community golf day has quickly become something much bigger for the Mid-West region.
The 2026 ACEN Australia Mid-West Charity Ambrose brought together local businesses, sponsors, volunteers and community members at Mudgee Golf Club for a day centred around connection, conversation and supporting local mental health services.
With an incredible 108 players on the course and support flowing in from businesses and supporters across Mudgee, Gulgong, Dubbo, Orange, Sydney and beyond, the event successfully raised more than $22,000 for the Lifeline Central West Mudgee Hub.
But beyond the fundraising result, the day reflected something even more important — the willingness of regional communities to show up for each other.
More Than Just a Golf Day
From the early morning bacon & egg rolls through to the final raffle and charity auction, the atmosphere across the course was relaxed, welcoming and community-driven.
Teams made up of local businesses, tradies, corporate supporters, mates and first-time golfers came together not just for a game of golf, but to support a service that many people across regional communities rely on during life’s toughest moments.
The event included:
- A four-person Ambrose tournament
- On-course competitions and activations
- Charity raffles and auctions
- Sponsor activations and community engagement
- Networking and connection opportunities for local businesses
Importantly, the event created a space where conversations around mental health felt natural, approachable and community-focused.
A Community Effort
The success of the day was only possible because of the generosity and support of the wider Mid-West community.
A huge contribution came from Major Naming Rights Sponsor ACEN Australia, alongside Gold and Silver Sponsors, local prize donors, volunteers and businesses who backed the event through sponsorships, raffle items and team entries.
Mudgee Golf Club and the Mudgee Pro Shop also played a significant role in helping deliver a seamless event experience for players and supporters.
The day highlighted the strength of regional partnerships and what can be achieved when businesses and communities work together toward a shared goal.
Supporting the Lifeline Central West Mudgee Hub
Funds raised from the Charity Ambrose will directly support the ongoing sustainability and growth of the Lifeline Central West Mudgee Hub.
The Hub continues to strengthen local crisis support services while building broader community wellbeing initiatives across the region.
According to Mudgee Hub Manager Coreene Horenko:
“Our Mudgee team is passionate about supporting our community through life’s toughest moments – we live and work here; we understand local needs and where support services are most needed.”
Funding raised through the event will help:
- Train and retain additional Crisis Supporters
- Expand community wellbeing initiatives
- Increase local mental health awareness and support opportunities
- Continue strengthening regional access to support services
Importantly, the work extends beyond Mudgee itself — supporting communities right across the wider region, from larger centres through to smaller rural towns.
Looking Ahead
The overwhelming support shown throughout the 2026 event has already created excitement for the future.
What was clear throughout the day was that regional communities value opportunities to connect, support each other and contribute to causes that create genuine local impact.
The Mid-West Charity Ambrose has quickly become more than a fundraiser — it is now a reflection of community resilience, generosity and the importance of supporting mental health close to home.
Lifeline Central West sincerely thanks every player, sponsor, volunteer, donor and supporter who helped make the day possible.
Together for life.