Ernie Melville Trophy winners crowned at Stephens

Last weekend Stephens hosted the Ernie Melville Trophy, with Division 3 and Division 4 played as separate events in Association Croquet.

As with the Easter Singles, competitors came from a range of clubs from Bundaberg to Southport. For some it was their first competition away from home. As well as trophies, the winners receive coaching from Ernie.

The Division 3 block of six players was won by Helen David (Graceville), with Zach Kominar (Merthyr) as runner-up. Helen's four wins earned her enough index points to trigger the transition to Division 2.

Due to a late withdrawal, the Division 4 block had only five players. In the Bye, each player was encouraged to ask questions of experienced players in attendance, and lots of rules and tactics were explained or clarified. Many thanks to Ernie, and also to Margaret Melville and Ross Preston for refereeing and helping to explain the intricacies of the game. The players said they found this very beneficial. Cameron Unwin (Wynnum) recovered from a shaky start to win the block, and Julia Tai (Southport) was the runner-up.

Photos: Thanks to Jacky Lynch

- The trophies - Cameron Unwin (Div 4 winner), Ernie Melville (Life Member of Stephens) and Helen David (Div 3 winner) - Div 3: Zach Kominar, Ernie, Helen - Div 4: Julia Tai, Ernie, Cameron - Referees and other volunteers: Gaye, Jacky, Margaret, Ernie, Ross - Various competitors in action in perfect croquet weather