Caloundra helps host the Golf Croquet Nationals

Our club members were very busy over the ten days, 30 August till 9 September, as we shared the hosting of the Golf Croquet Nationals with other Sunshine Coast Clubs, plus the Eildon Croquet Club. During this time our courts were closed to club and social play. There were over 100 men and women participating in the Nationals. The planning for this event began months ago- there was so much to do. However, under the leadership of Dick Byres (Bribie Island), it all came together and the feedback received to date has all been positive. A huge thank you goes to our Club Captain, Murray Tinker, and Tournament Manager, Robyn Brown, for their part in this. The organising committee is extremely grateful for the generous sponsorship received from the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and PFC Mallets.

Thank you, to the club members for our support during this event. Hearty thanks to the following; . Venue Managers, Kerry Helmrich and Carole Atkinson . Scorers - Sue Dixon and Fran Meem . Hoop Setters, Mike Bertram and Leigh Sampson ably assisted by Frank Guerreiro, Don Helmrich and Sam Oaten . Marg Brown, Faye Carr and their band of merry helpers who oversaw club house duties and ensured the players and officials were well fed and hydrated . The members - for supplying the many tasty eats that the players and officials could eat at their leisure.

On Tuesday 3 September we hosted the Men's and Women's semi-finals and finals. Robert Fletcher defeated his brother, Malcolm, in the Men's final, while Alison Sharpe (Sydney), won the Women's final. Robert and Malcolm have now made Caloundra their primary club. Robert, Malcolm and brother Greg, are off to USA to compete in the World Golf Croquet event. At a finger food dinner at the adjacent Bridge Club that night, the Sunshine Coast Council Mayor, Rosanna Natoli, welcomed all the interstate team players who all looked resplendent in their state blazers. The trophies were then presented to Robert and Alison, as well as certificates to a number of place-getters. Thank you Kerry Helmrich for organising this successful event and thanks also to our club members who served the food and manned the drinks station.

On the final day, Sunday 9 September, we hosted the interstate clash between the two undefeated teams - NSW and WA. The result of this clash was determined by the outcome of the final Women's singles match, which drew a very interested audience. NSW won this game 7-5, and so won the interstate shield on net hoops as both teams had won 20 games.

We had our AGM on Thursday 12 September following a luncheon provided by the club. There were 27 members in attendance and our new committee was elected. Not all positions were filled on the day, but have been since. The following have accepted the positions of responsibility for the club. President: Howard Williams Vice President: Sam Oaten Secretary: Liz Niven Treasurer: John Nealer Committee Members: Robyn Brown, Faye Carr & Don Helmrich Club Captain: Murray Tinker

At the meeting Life Membership was granted to both Glenda Windust and Eric Cree. Congratulations to Glenda and Eric for your contributions to our club. Presentations were also given to Brenda Tranter and Glenda Windust for twenty years membership and Kerry Helmrich, Don Helmrich and Howard Williams for ten years membership.

Following the AGM the committee has agreed that Caloundra would host in 2025 the "Invictus" AC Classic, and the following CAQ events-GC Open Singles, GC President's Medal, AC Alternate Stroke Doubles and State Gateball Championships.

Our GC teams had a pleasing year in the SCRCC competitions. Caloundra won the Pennant and Plate competitions and came second in the Shield. Our members now have the opportunity to participate in the Doug Jones Memorial event. This is a handicap club event for players with handicaps 8 -12. Our AC players have completed the various club singles events. Congratulations to the following players: Div 2 Winner: Delphine Willems Div 1&2 handicap Winner: Sam Oaten Div 3 Winner: Don Helmrich Div 3&4 handicap Winner: Don Helmrich.

There are six pairs entered in the doubles competition. This is a handicap event commencing on Wednesday, 9 October.

Our new ride on mower has finally arrived and Mike Bertram is learning new driving skills. Once Mike is proficient it will make the maintenance of our court and club house surroundings an easier task.

Howard Williams