Pennants, coaching and a 30th anniversary at The Range-Maleny

As a club, The Range-Maleny continues with its emphasis on Association Croquet, while also developing participation in Ricochet. Members are progressing well in their play and many have been busy participating in events in the region over the last couple of months. The club is also busy planning for several coming events which it is keenly anticipating.

The Range-Maleny has teams in the Sunshine Coast Region AC pennants competitions, both Bray and Lochwood, and these games have been greatly enjoyed, with several very close run matches keeping spectators and participants on the edge of their seats. The club also fielded a team in the Sunshine Coast Region Ricochet pennants competition.

The club is proud of two members, Ken Barker and Donna Manning, who acquitted themselves very well playing in the AC 2nd Eights at Toombul on 29-30 April. This reflects the ongoing commitment of these two players to Association Croquet and their enthusiastic participation in events as opportunities present.

Here at the Maleny Showgrounds, Saturday morning AC coaching continues and is well attended by those keen to take this opportunity to further their skills. Association Croquet play days continue on Thursday and Sunday afternoons, after which members enjoy a congenial drink outside the small clubhouse.

The club recently added a regular Ricochet play day on Tuesday mornings. The inaugural games were held on Tuesday 9 May and were greatly enjoyed by those who attended.

As a small club, The Range-Maleny relies on members to contribute in many ways on a volunteer basis. The club is especially indebted to Wallace Roy for his hard work in his role of lawn keeper. Here at Maleny there is a plethora of enthusiastic weeds seeking to take over the lawns and Wallace is locked in a constant battle keeping them under control. This takes on increased significance as Wallace seeks to continue improving the lawns ready for when the club participates in hosting games for next year's Nationals. In addition, Wallace is working on creating an additional pleasant seating area behind the clubhouse which will provide more much needed shade during those hot summer months. Thanks Wallace for the many, many hours you put in to keeping the property in good order, thereby enhancing the playing experience. The club may not express this very often however Wallace's contribution is greatly appreciated by all of us.

Also, a shout out to Sarah Widin, the club President, for her untiring commitment to furthering the club, attending meetings on the club's behalf, making grant applications, and generally undertaking many tasks behind the scenes to keep us ticking along. Again, the club's appreciation may not be frequently expressed, however, we recognise Sarah's huge effort and take this opportunity to acknowledge her commitment.

Many others contribute significantly in other roles, both official and unofficial, in ways too numerous to outline here. It is a team effort to run a small club such as ours and many thanks for all who play a part.

Coming events include the Club Championships to be held in mid July and players are looking forward to this opportunity to challenge one another to have their name on the championships shield. The club continues to enjoy hosting visiting groups, offering friendly games of Golf Croquet which are always greatly enjoyed by our visitors. The club is fortunate to inhabit a very attractive setting, adding to the enjoyment of visitors.

The monthly visitors from Caloundra Gardens Over 50's Village, Mark Rd West, who have become good friends of the club over the years.

Most importantly, the club's 30th anniversary is coming up on Sunday 30 July with an event planned from 10am to 3pm at the lawns at the Showgrounds. There will be morning and afternoon tea and a BBQ lunch alongside fun croquet games for all to enjoy. All are welcome, however numbers will be needed so if you are planning to come please RSVP by Saturday 23 July by emailing therange@croquetqld.org. The club would love to welcome anyone who would like to come and celebrate.

By Helen Uhlmann, The Range-Maleny. From the Croquet Newsletter, May/June 2023, pages 28-30.