Each year, Shore students, teachers, and Old Boys come together for The Longest Day, an endurance golf challenge that raises vital funds for the Cancer Council. Organised by Year 12 student Cameron (Year 12), the event sees participants complete an incredible 72 holes of golf from dawn to dusk, all in the name of cancer research and support.
The 2024 event was an extraordinary success, with the Shore team raising over $50,000, making them the fourth-largest fundraising team in the country. Among the participants was Year 11 student Jack, who took on the challenge in honour of his mother, Margie, who is currently undergoing life-saving treatment for ocular melanoma.
A Personal Journey of Strength and Support
Margie’s journey began in early 2024 when she experienced unusual vision problems.
Initially suspected to be a stroke or migraine, further scans revealed the presence of an ocular melanoma—a rare form of cancer not linked to sun exposure or lifestyle factors. Following medical advice, she joined an immunotherapy trial at the Kinghorn Cancer Centre, which has since shrunk her tumour by 40% in just six months. Margie describes the treatment as life-saving and remains hopeful for the future.
Inspired by his mother’s strength, Jack decided to take part in The Longest Day alongside his schoolmates. Setting a modest fundraising goal of $250, he was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from family and friends. “I put a message in a WhatsApp group my auntie created, ‘Margie’s Wonderbras,’ and we hit our goal in five minutes. By the next morning, we had over $1,000,” Jack shared. By the end of the event, he had personally raised an impressive $10,383.
The Shore team teed off at 5am at Northbridge Golf Course, pushing themselves through the long day of play. Jack recalled the exhaustion setting in during the third round, only to be rescued by his mother arriving with a golf cart. “As my Mum and I came in after the final hole, the Shore team was waiting for us, clapping us in. There were about 50 parents, boys from School, and teachers,” he said. The moment was deeply emotional for Margie, who was brought to tears by the overwhelming support.
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A Legacy of Giving
2024 marked the fourth year that the Shore School Golf Team participated in The Longest Day. Initially aiming to raise $25,000, the team quickly surpassed expectations thanks to the generosity and dedication of students, old boys, teachers, and parents.
Margie expressed her deep gratitude for the support she received, not only from her family—her husband Ford and children Jack, Joe, and Sophia—but also from the wider Shore community. Reflecting on the importance of the Cancer Council’s work, she acknowledged the challenges many face when battling cancer. “Cancer is a full-time job. I was really lucky to have amazing support around me, but not everyone has that. Being at the treatment centre opened my eyes to the importance of what the Cancer Council does. Once I put this behind me, I want to see how else I can help.”
Honouring a Beloved Teammate
This year’s event also carried a poignant tribute to Leon, a cherished member of the Shore Golf Team who tragically passed away in 2024. His younger brother, Lawson (Year 5), participated in The Longest Day, becoming the youngest player ever to take part in the challenge nationally. Surrounded by caddies from Leon’s Golf, Rowing, Cadets, Music and Drama mates, as well as Leon’s best friend, Lawson completed the demanding 72 holes with remarkable determination.
Members of Shore Rowing joined in support, demonstrating the deep camaraderie and unity that defines the Shore community. A special moment, captured on film, shows Lawson sinking his final putt, met with cheers from the rowing team, who had flown in that morning and headed straight from the airport to the course to show their support.
Making a Difference
By the end of the event, the Shore School team had raised an astounding $52,184. Their contribution will fund cancer research and support services.
Shore’s teaching staff also took out the entire podium, placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd for the day!
The Longest Day is more than just a golf challenge—it is a symbol of hope, unity, and unwavering support for those affected by cancer. The Shore community looks forward to continuing this tradition, driving forward the mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.