Preparations for the Ricky Stuart Foundation’s Celebrity Pro-Am are in full swing for the 7th and largest year.  The charity, which exists to create an awareness of autism, as well as to support families touched by it, hopes to raise a whopping $300,000 from the event. The proceeds will go towards building a second respite house for teenagers in Cook; affectionately named Emma Ruby House after Stuart’s daughter.

The annual tournament traditionally boasts some heavy hitting celebrities and 2018 is no exception. Channel Nine Presenter, Leila McKinnon, AFL great, Robert DiPierdomenico and TV personality, Darryl Brohman have all come on board, offering their profiles—and golfing skills—to raise awareness for Autism.

Stuart praised the generosity of the community and the celebrities whom make the day possible.

He told us: “I’m overwhelmed by the support of the local community as well as individuals like Mckinnon, DiPierdomenico and Brohman, who so generously give their time to make the Pro-am a success.”

According to Stuart, local businesses are just as crucial to fundraising as the celebrities. As the foundation’s major sponsor, Austbrokers Canberra are pledging a golf day prize of $600,000.

“Austbrokers Canberra have again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the foundation by providing golfing pros and budding amateurs with the opportunity to take home $600,000  through a hole-in-one competition with $300,000 going to The Foundation.”

Greg Johnston, Managing Director of Austbrokers Canberra, said the prize pool had increased from last year’s sum by $100,000.

“This year we wanted to extend our involvement; increasing the prize. This would certainly be a shot to remember and we wish those attending the Pro-Am the very best of luck for their involvement in such a great day.” said Mr Johnston.

Tickets for the 2018 tournament are sold out, however you can still help this worthy cause by donating on The Foundations website: www.rickystuart.org