Headland-Buderim welcomes New Zealand visitors and holds Pineapple Cup decider

Headland-Buderim has welcomed regular winter visitors from colder climates, many returning year after year and bringing friends.

On Friday 13 June, fourteen croquet players from New Zealand's South Island visited in beautiful weather. The first round used a friendly New Zealand versus Queensland format and finished with four games each. After morning tea, club members were paired with visitors in a high and low draw. During morning tea, all visitors received a welcome bag from the club. Late in the afternoon, all visitors and five club members gathered at Maroochy RSL before an evening meal. The New Zealand clubs included Aorangi, Tainui, Winton, Waimate, Wakatipu and Wanaka, where club member Don Murray was once a member.

The club's mock State of Origin, the decider for the Pineapple Trophy, was held on Tuesday 8 July. Queenslanders have dominated since the event began in 2014. This year, four New Zealanders were imported into the Queensland line up. The opposing team was made up of those born south of the border or in other countries. Ross Rillie captained Queensland and Don Murray captained The Rest. Robyn provided pies from Simply Pies, desserts and half time treats, while manager and mascot Helen dressed in pineapple theme.

State of Origin 2025 Pineapple Cup players, Queenslanders plus four New Zealanders versus The Rest.

Congratulations went again to Ross Rillie for making the Queensland GC State Team. Caloundra was congratulated for hosting the CQ GC President's Medal, where Ross advanced through to the Knock Out before bowing out.

Members Viv Lloyd, Merryl Cook and Cheryl Quetember were part of Go See Touring to Norfolk Island in June as part of the Convict Tour. The club also extended sympathy to Merryl, who lost her mother during the trip.

Viv Lloyd, Merryl Cook and Cheryl Quetember on the Norfolk Island tour.

A new equipment trolley, made by the local Maroochy Men's Shed, has been welcomed and will save volunteers walking to and fro when setting up lawn 1.

By Helen Rillie, Headland-Buderim. From the Croquet Newsletter, July/August 2025, pages 24, 25.