Laurel Bank Croquet Club described 2025 as a busy and rewarding year. Many Queenslanders know the club for its Devonshire Teas during the Carnival of Flowers, its major annual fundraiser, which again brought many visitors through the grounds. The club also continues to host parties and community events, helping introduce more people to croquet.

Laurel Bank has recently welcomed experienced coaches who shared their time and expertise across Ricochet, Golf Croquet and Association Croquet. As a direct result, Ricochet has become part of the regular Saturday morning program. Friendly Ricochet games are now available at Laurel Bank on Saturdays from 8am.

The club also reported strong results. Addison Matthews was the Silver Medalist in the Croquet Australia Golf Medal Event and represented Queensland in the Interstate Shield.

At the Point Lookout Spring Carnival, Frances Wright won Ricochet 9+, Joy Wright won GC Singles 5 to 8, Marion Stower was runner up in GC 9+, and Marion Stower and Joy Wright were runners up in GC Doubles.

The club also held a successful lawn and hoop-setting morning, thanking CAQ for supporting sessions that help clubs maintain high-quality playing conditions. The new year began with Australia Day fellowship, fun games and morning tea.

Laurel Bank members celebrating Australia Day.

Laurel Bank continues to enjoy strong community support, growing skills and strong competition results, and looks forward to seeing many visitors on its lawns.

By Joy Wright, Laurel Bank. From the Croquet Newsletter, January/February 2026, pages 26-28.