Liam O'Flaherty is the son of the former Department Head of Kids Rehab - Dr Stephen O'Flaherty. In July 2009, Liam was tragically killed at the age of 24 years in an accident which left his family and friends devastated and shocked at his sudden death.
Liam's brief stay with us was packed with a rich array of experiences, travel, sports, adventures, love and friendship. His joy for life, sense of humour, compassionate nature and sweet smile touched many hearts.
In honour of Liam's life, good friend Paul Bardetta founded the 'Kids Rehab Golf Day' in 'Memory of Liam O'Flaherty' in 2010 which fits with Liam's love of golf that was developed when he stopped his professional baseball career with the LA Dodgers.
The Golf Day has allowed his family and friends to come together on an annual basis to remember the spirited person that Liam was and at the same time raising funds for the rehab units at the Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (SCHN).
The response to the Golf Day was an overwhelming success with the event selling out weeks after it went on sale. There were approx. 144 players and an additional 40 guests attending the lunch at the Clubhouse. The Golf Day was held at the picturesque Castle Hill Country Club and was generously sponsored by Audi Australia.
The Golf Day consisted of a shotgun start with 18 holes of golf, gift pack to all the players, post round lunch and drinks. Kids Rehab Patron and MC to the Emerald Ball, Sami Lukis did a wonderful job ensuring the order of events went smoothly and Channel 7's 'Better Homes & Garden's presenter 'Jason Hodges' did a great job as Auctioneer.
The inaugural Kids Rehab Golf Day in 'Memory of Liam O'Flaherty' raised just over $65K for the 'Liam O'Flaherty Fellowship Trust Fund' to assist clinicians including nurses and therapists gain further training in the area of paediatric disabilities.
Funds raised from the Golf Days since its inception is in excess of $600K.