Hospice Southland extends its thanks to Scott Whitaker for organising Par for Purpose, a charity golf day held on Friday, 13 February 2026, which united the local golfing and business community in support of a cause impacting countless Southland families.

Par for Purpose was more than a day on the course. It was a powerful reminder that hospice care in Southland exists because of the community's generosity.

Every entry, sponsorship, and contribution helps ensure free specialist palliative care remains available to those who need it most.

Funds raised from the event are currently being tallied, with all proceeds going directly towards supporting Hospice Southland’s care services across the region. Event organiser Scott Whitaker said the cause was deeply personal.

“Like many Southlanders, I have seen firsthand the huge impact hospice has on families during some of the toughest times in their lives,” Whitaker said.

“I wanted to do something meaningful to support the incredible work they do. Bringing people together for a day of golf felt like a great way to raise funds, but also to raise awareness of just how important hospice care is in our community.”

Also on the kitchen utensils today (Friday, 13 February 2026) were Margaret Hewett – In-patient Nurse at Hospice Southland, Suzanne Prentice – Events Co-ordinator, and Paddy O’Brien – President, ILT. Photo: Supplied

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“We do what we do because our community helps us do it,” said Pete Thompson, Chief Executive of Hospice Southland.

“Events like Par for Purpose are critical. They enable us to continue delivering compassionate care, supporting patients and families at some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives.”

Hospice care is not fully funded, meaning Hospice Southland relies heavily on fundraising, donations, and community support to continue delivering care, dignity, and choice for Southlanders living with life-limiting illness.

“Scott’s leadership in bringing this event together has had a real impact,” Thompson said. “When individuals and businesses choose to back hospice, they are directly supporting care that stays local and supports local families.”

The event also attracted strong local support from familiar Southland identities, who generously gave their time to be part of the day and help keep the atmosphere upbeat and community focused.

Supporters rolled up their sleeves to cook sausages on the barbecue and ensure players and guests were well looked after throughout the day.

Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell attended the event and praised Hospice Southland for its role in caring for the region’s most vulnerable.

“Hospice is one of those organisations that almost every family in Southland is connected to in some way, at some point,” Mayor Campbell said.

“The work they do is extraordinary. It is fantastic to see the community come together behind an event like this and show their support for the care hospice provides.”

The success of Par for Purpose reflects a wider culture of giving in Southland, where people understand the value of looking after one another and stepping up when it matters most.

Hospice Southland extends heartfelt thanks to Scott Whitaker, the players, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters who made Par for Purpose possible.

Their support ensures hospice care can continue today and into the future.

For those wanting to support Hospice Southland, whether through fundraising, donations, volunteering, or longer-term giving, every contribution helps keep hospice carefree and local.