Cherry Street celebrated Christmas and Presentation Day together at the Cherry Street Sports Club in Ballina. Members enjoyed lunch, and President Robyn Poynting welcomed everyone with a speech covering inspirational members, volunteers and the year just passed. Patrons Jan Copeland and Ken Clarke also spoke warmly about the club.

Foundation members and members from the inaugural year attended, including Noelene Barnes, Faye Duncan, Del Casey, Jenny O’Sullivan, Robbie Allen and Col Gale, with Bob Taylor absent on the day. Club Captain Ray Chapman presented trophies and awards with assistance from Gloria Drew and Christine Edlund, while Helen Young, Social House Manager, kept the day on cue with Vice-President Wendy Gilmore and helpers.

The Old Mug Cup went to Marlene Rennie for tireless work on and off the greens. The Captain’s Award went to Jim Hannigan, recognised as a dedicated and much improved player gaining deserved recognition across the croquet fraternity.

Patrons Awards went to Gloria Drew, Robyn Poynting and Jim Hannigan. Golf Champions were Ray Chapman, Jim Hannigan and Bev Bill. Ricochet Champions were David Scott, Phyllis Waters and Robbie Allen. Association Champions were Phyllis Waters and Sue Hume. OBE Champions were Norma Watts, Maurie Russell and Barbara Wellings. Novice Champion was Anne Wansbrough.

Cherry Street members at Christmas and Presentation Day.

Members socialising during Cherry Street's presentation celebrations.

The club thanked the strong group of members who put in many hours on leadership, ground and hoop maintenance, coaching and support. Several members also gained coaching and refereeing certificates. First Club Championships in 2025 went to Bev Bill, Brenton Bill, Debbie Jones, Flemming Frederickson and Anne Wansbrough. The club noted Flemming had worked for more than ten years to break through.

With membership at 76, and 55 attending the Christmas lunch and presentation, Cherry Street closed the year with strong evidence of member dedication and love for the club.

By Greg Porter, Cherry Street. From the Croquet Newsletter, January/February 2026, pages 12-15.