The Longest Day will officially take place on December 14 this year, but participants can hold their event at their local golf club anytime during December.

Participants are challenged to play four rounds of golf in one day at their own club with their friends and fellow members.

Cancer Council NSW’s Campaign Manager, Helen Van Nooten, said while The Longest Day is an endurance challenge that tests skill and stamina, it is easy to get involved – and a whole lot of fun.

“The Longest Day challenges participants to successfully complete all four rounds of golf during daylight hours – a challenge that many keen golfers are eager to conquer,” Ms Van Nooten said. 

“Participants will be making a difference by raising funds to support Cancer Council’s life-saving cancer research, prevention programs, and information and support services, that are more important than ever.

Former PGA Tour player Paul Gow will be taking part in The Longest Day. PHOTO: Getty Images

“In the NSW alone, it is estimated that approximately 47,500 people will be diagnosed with cancer in a single year, with around 15,500 deaths expected, so funding for cancer research, prevention and support is vitally important.

“Playing golf is a good way to keep active, but as recreational golfers spend extended periods of time out in the sun, we want to remind all participants to use sun protection to reduce their skin cancer risk.

“Personal experiences aside, my involvement with Cancer Council is about spreading the word to golfers and the golfing industry that sun protection really is something everybody needs to take seriously.” – Paul Gow

“UV levels are high enough to require sun protection for most of the year, so we encourage golfers to keep sun-safe and slip, slop, slap, seek and slide, not only on The Longest Day, but each and every day.”

One of The Longest Day’s ambassadors is former touring professional Paul Gow, who was diagnosed with skin cancer in 2013.

“So many of us are affected by skin cancer, and I’m no different, so when I was approached to be an ambassador for Cancer Council NSW I was so excited,” Gow said.

“I was first diagnosed with skin cancer about seven years ago, and I’ve since had about 20 different parts of skin cut out. I want people to protect their skin and prevent this from happening. So, with my own personal experiences aside, my involvement with Cancer Council is about spreading the word to golfers and the golfing industry that sun protection really is something everybody needs to take seriously.

“I encourage everyone to have a go at The Longest Day because you get to know yourself a lot better. Seventy-two holes really tests you on the day, and it’s probably helped my golf to this day, to be able to really dig deep and get through the pain barrier of all that walking. It’s enjoyable too, spending the full day on the course with just you and your mates. It’s rare you’ll get an opportunity like that.”

You can register or donate at www.longestday.org.au and tee off to support a cancer-free future.