Broadbeach members travel to Norfolk Island and Maria Barrett wins Division 4

Broadbeach has updated its club shirts. The colours remain white with maroon and gold, but the design has changed.

A substantial group of Broadbeach players travelled to Norfolk Island, strengthening club friendships, sharing many laughs, and deepening their appreciation for croquet and the culture of Norfolk Island. Many are already talking about a return visit.

Maria Barrett represented Broadbeach in Association Croquet at Southport Croquet Club on 10 and 11 July. The event was the Division 4 section of the Gold Coast Tweed Competition and was played under beautiful sunny skies. Maria Barrett from Broadbeach CC was the winner. David Bartholomeusz from Merthyr Croquet Club was second. The club thanked Event Manager Julia Vickers and referees Lois Rolls, Eunice Frater and Keith McLeod.

Participants and referees. From left: Lois Rolls, Janelle Winn, Ken Hampson and Maria Barrett from Broadbeach, and David Bartholomeusz.

Sixteen members, just over half the club's membership, enjoyed a memorable week on Norfolk Island from 21 to 28 June. The trip included the Norfolk Island Croquet Convicts' Cup, sightseeing and socialising. Members played croquet on five days, with plenty of friendly games and good-natured competition. Each Broadbeach player was paired with a croquet member from another club, making new friendships along the way.

A special highlight came when Annette Gatland and June McLaren from Queenscliffe Club, Victoria, won their round in Group A and then played in the final in pelting rain. They finished as runners up in the Convicts' Cup, a big thrill for both Broadbeach and Queenscliffe Croquet Clubs.

Daily outings included guided historical tours, nature walks, visits to local museums and heritage sites, and meeting local residents in their own homes.

By Edrae, Broadbeach. From the Croquet Newsletter, July/August 2025, pages 5, 6.