Applications have officially opened for the 2026 Salsa Sorensen Charity Golf Day grants, offering local non-profits and charities an opportunity to secure vital funding.

The popular annual charity weekend will run from August 14 to 16, and is sponsored by sustainable energy firm Next Green Group.

The festivities kick off on Friday, August 14, with the Next Green Group Wine Lunch, raising funds for local charity KIND, with tickets now on sale.

The weekend wraps up on Sunday, August 16, with the iconic golf day at Palmer Sea Reef. 

Local businesses and residents will hit the greens to compete for the prestigious Brian Sorensen Cup, all while raising vital funds for the community.

From these proceeds, grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 will be made available specifically to help Douglas Shire organisations improve their daily operations, upgrade infrastructure, or purchase essential equipment.

Every dollar distributed is generated entirely by local generosity, pooled from business hole sponsorships, registration fees from the 24 competing teams, and individual donations. 

Now in its 17th year, the initiative has injected more than $246,000 into local sporting groups and community clubs. 

The event is overseen by the Salsa Sorensen Association Inc., which was formalised in 2014 by Jenni Sorensen and the owners of Salsa Bar & Grill to honour the legacy of late local icon Brian Sorensen

To be eligible for the funding, applicants must be located within the Douglas Shire and clearly demonstrate how the funding will enhance their organisation's capacity to serve the community.

Grant submissions close on Friday, July 31, 2026, and successful recipients will be awarded their cheques live during the tournament's post-game presentations.