Anthony, Billy, Kylie, Martin.  Photo: Noel Rowsell

PENRITH golfers are rallying to back men’s mental health through Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk, as part of X-Golf for Good, a national six-week charity initiative running until 15 November.

The partnership builds on an extraordinary fundraising effort last year, when the national spotlight was on X-Golf Penrith franchisee Matt Newton, who set a new Guinness World Record for the most golf holes played in 24 hours to support the group’s annual fundraising event.

This year, the team is turning its attention to a cause closer to home, supporting Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk, which brings local men together through free weekly walks to build connections, reduce social isolation and encourage conversations around mental health.

For franchisee Kylie Newton, the partnership reflects the role X-Golf already plays in bringing people together through sport, socialising and mate ship.

“Last year, our team showed just how much can be achieved when you bring people together for a meaningful cause,” Kylie said. “This year, we wanted to channel that same energy into something happening right here in our own backyard.

Anthony from Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk has a deep connection to the group, often partaking with friends and family.

“Mental Health is a complex problem,” Anthony said. “Catching up and for a walk and talk is a simple concept, but it plays a critical role in our community. Penrith Men’s Walk & Talk is helping break down the stigma around vulnerability, giving local blokes a chance to be themselves, connect with like-minded men and have serious conversations when they need to.”

Last year, the X-Golf network raised more than $21,000 for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. This year, the focus is on supporting charities making a difference in the communities where X-Golf operates.

X-Golf for Good at a glance

• Running from 5 October to 15 November, 2026

• Donate directly by scanning the QR code in-venue

• Enter the free national tournament for a share of a $1,500 prize pool

• Chippies for Charity sees $2 from every serve of chips donated directly

• Fundraising challenges include Mini Game Blitz, nearest-the-pin and hole-in-one competitions, with cash and prizes up for grabs

• The Event Night Scramble runs from 26 to 30 October, where teams of up to four players take on a nine-hole scramble, with X-Golf merchandise awarded to the top three teams

• The Community Night on October 29 brings charities, partners and players together to celebrate a good cause

• The national silent auction runs during the final two weeks, featuring prizes such as luxury holidays, sports memorabilia and wine packages.