Golfer Lucas Herbert has returned to Australia on a mission to use his platform to help those struggling in the tough economic climate.
Herbert has played in this week’s NSW Open at the Hunter Valley, finishing in a tie for third.
But Herbert, fresh off the collapse of LIV Golf, entered this week’s tournament without something synonymous with professional sport: sponsorships.
The end of LIV Golf brought an end to many commercial arrangements Herbert had, meaning he entered this week’s NSW Open with his clothing as a blank canvas.
But Herbert decided he wanted to use his platform to help, following the tragic death of a mate earlier this year.
The 30-year-old from Bendigo put a call out to small businesses in the lead-up to the tournament, offering to promote them on his clothing.
He said small business owners were doing it tough, and said he wanted to help out.
He told golf journalist Tom Hobbs earlier this week that he was inspired to help small Australian businesses following the passing of a friend.
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“Just seeing local business getting destroyed over here makes me sad,” he said.
“One of my good friends took his own life in January because he was a small business owner and couldn’t take the pressures of working 60 hours a week to keep the lights on any longer.
“I thought it would be better than coming home wearing blank hats and clothes.”
A mental health charity, electrical and a lawn care business were among the sponsors Herbert carried on his clothing this week.
Herbert will also be part of the Australian Open and Australian PGA Championship during this golf season.
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