Cruise Vacations Golf Day Delivers Outstanding Result for Rhino Connect

Cruise Vacations’ inaugural Swing for the Rhinos Charity Golf Day, held at Jackal Creek Golf Estate on Friday 5th June, proved to be a resounding success, raising R250,000 for rhino conservation through Rhino Connect.

The event brought together golfers, sponsors, suppliers, donors and conservation supporters for a day of fundraising, networking and awareness in support of one of South Africa’s most iconic endangered species.

Representatives from both Cruise Vacations and Rhino Connect hosted and attended the event, including Rhino Connect Founder Tersia Jooste, whose passion and dedication to rhino conservation continue to inspire support for the organisation’s important work.

The event was made possible through the generous support of headline sponsors Tourvest,ERA Real Estate, REVOV Batteries, Carrier Air Conditioners, Sys Control and Star Clippers, the iconic tall ship sailing cruise line represented in South Africa exclusively by Cruise Vacations for more than 30 years.

Demonstrating its commitment to the cause, Star Clippers donated a spectacular 7-night Mediterranean sailing for two, which became the headline auction prize and one of the day’s most sought-after fundraising items.

Adding further momentum to the fundraising efforts, HOT 102.7 and Hot Cares, a long-standing supporter of Rhino Connect, helped kick-start the fundraising with a generous pledge.

In addition to sponsorships and four-ball entries, guests enjoyed an exceptional auction and raffle featuring more than R300,000 worth of prizes donated by a wide range of travel, hospitality, corporate partners and local businesses.

Highlights included the 7-night Mediterranean Star Clippers sailing, luxury safari experiences, holiday accommodation, original South African artwork, premium hampers, vouchers and a variety of travel and lifestyle prizes generously donated by supporters of the cause.

As one of South Africa’s most established and multi-award-winning luxury cruise specialists, Cruise Vacations committed its full team to the planning, coordination and delivery of the event. Working alongside Rhino Connect, sponsors, suppliers and supporters, the team helped bring together a successful day of fundraising while raising awareness for rhino conservation. The company represents many of the world’s leading luxury and expedition cruise brands, including Silversea, Silversea Expeditions, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Emerald Cruises, and Star Clippers.

Gaynor Neill of Cruise Vacations said:

“We are overwhelmed by the support received from our sponsors, suppliers, donors and golfers. The success of Swing for the Rhinos demonstrates what can be achieved when businesses and individuals come together for a common purpose. Every rand raised will help Rhino Connect continue its vital conservation work.”

Tersia Jooste, Founder of Rhino Connect, thanked all participants and supporters for their contribution.

“Conservation requires collaboration, and events like this make a real difference. We are incredibly grateful to Cruise Vacations, the sponsors, donors and every golfer who participated. The funds raised will directly assist Rhino Connect in continuing our efforts to protect and preserve rhinos for future generations.”

The organisers also extended their gratitude to the many companies and individuals who donated prizes, sponsored holes, purchased raffle tickets, participated in the auction and supported the event in countless ways.

Following the success of the inaugural event, plans are already underway to build on the momentum and establish Swing for the Rhinos as an annual fundraising initiative.

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