Come August 18th, the Douglas Shire will once again witness a celebration of community as the Annual Brian Sorensen Cup hits the Palmer Sea Reef golf course for the 16th time, but this year, there’s a new star player: Next Green Group. 2024 marks a significant milestone as Next Green Group, a leading green energy supplier, steps in as platinum supporter showcasing just how far this charity event has come.

What started as a tribute to late local icon, Brian Sorensen, in 2009, has now become one of the Douglas Shire’s biggest fundraising events with fundraising efforts set to hit $200,000 this year all of which have been directly donated to local clubs throughout its history.

Teaming up with local restaurant Salsa Bar and Grill over 10 years ago helped to grow the initiative and distribute money to those in need and now, with the addition of another major player in Next Green Group, there’s promise to take the charity to even bigger heights.

“We’re very excited to have Next Green Group on board,” said Salsa Marketing Manager, Jess Uhlig. “They have been huge supporters of the event for years and always play in the tournaments so it’s great to have them on as an official supporter.”

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If you would like to apply for a grant or register a team to play in the Annual Brian Sorensen Cup, click here.
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Over the years, groups such as the Clink Theatre, Port Douglas State School and the Animal Rescue Centre have benefited from funding raised through the Brian Sorensen Cup, which solely focuses on supporting the Douglas Shire. “Grant applicants must be a not-for-profit organisation from the area and they must have a project in mind that can be purchased outright or can be completed with the assistance of the donation,” explained Ms Uhlig.

“We’re so proud at Salsa to be a part of this event as another way to leverage more support for the community, particularly to groups like school children, that may not ever step through Salsa’s doors.”

Grant applications are open until July 31st with eligible applicants given the chance at $500 - $5000 for their chosen project. “Selected projects are those that are key things the community needs,” said Ms Uhlig. “Something that will make a positive difference.”

The beauty of this event lies in its inclusivity with anyone able to register to play. Get the gang together to enjoy a fantastic day on the green with friends or colleagues but beyond the fun, there’s also a bit of an incentive: a $20,000 cash prize awaits if you manage to hit a hole-in-one on the 15th hole. Don’t miss out on this chance to combine a great time with the thrill of potentially winning big.