Southport has been participating throughout 2025 in the Gold Coast City Council's Come and Try days. The Sunday morning sessions, held once a month, have introduced many people to Golf Croquet and Gateball. They have also been successful for the club, with new members joining and a financial benefit from conducting the sessions.

A large group of members enjoyed a social occasion at Emerald Lakes Golf Club on Saturday 6 December. Overlooking the lake and course, members shared a day of friendship, a delicious two-course lunch and fun activities. The photos showed everyone through "new lenses".

Keith McLeod wearing reindeer antlers for a ring toss game.

The social committee also organised a cruise around the Runaway Bay canals to view the Christmas lights.

Southport members at the Christmas party.

Over the weekend, it was announced that Gwenda Brennan, the club's dedicated Treasurer, had been selected for the State Reserve squad for Golf Croquet. Gwenda has spent many hours practising at the club, often early in the morning, like fellow members Mary McMahon and Gabby Spencer, who are the top players in Queensland Golf Croquet.

Gwenda Brennan at Southport's Christmas party.

The Southport School also held an informal get-to-know-you event at the club for all new Year 7 boarders and their families. It was the second time the event had been held at the club, giving everyone a chance to meet before the start of term. A hit of croquet, a BBQ and plenty of socialising made for a strong start.

Year 7 boys gathering together for fun, food and games.

Young people on the Southport lawn during the Year 7 welcome event.

By Barbara Northcott, Southport. From the Croquet Newsletter, January/February 2026, pages 32-34.