Headland Buderim reported the death of Gordon Matthews, who died peacefully in his sleep on 19 January 2026 at Selangor Hospital in Nambour. He was 89. According to his wishes, there was no funeral.

Gordon joined Headland-Buderim Croquet Club in June 2005 and made a large contribution over many years. He became both a coach and referee, served in several capacities, and brought particular help in areas relating to his profession as a doctor. In 2021, in recognition of his dedication, he was appointed Club Patron. As Patron he introduced the Patron’s Shield, an annual fun event intended to bring all club members together in fellowship.

Gordon’s croquet achievements and service also reached beyond his local club. He captained a Queensland State team, served for ten years as ACA National Director of Golf Croquet Refereeing, and was the Australian representative on the World Golf Croquet Rules Committee.

The club extended condolences to Gordon’s wife Judith, and thanked them both for their strong support of Headland-Buderim and the wider croquet community over more than 20 years.

The club’s Christmas lunch was held on Friday 12 December. Thanks went to Robyn Leadbetter for organising the day, and to Helen Rillie and Carolyn Hodgins for assembling donations into five raffle prizes. The club also thanked everyone who donated prizes, brought plates and helped.

By Croquet Newsletter, Jan/Feb 2026. From the Croquet Newsletter, January/February 2026, page 19.