As the end of the financial year looms, it is pleasing at Broadbeach to have players coming along to enjoy their time on the court with friendly rivalry, and to see everyone enjoy the social activities the catering committee provides. The pennants season is in full swing, with quite a few members taking part in the friendly rivalry between Gold Coast Region clubs.

Broadbeach has had two celebrations since the last newsletter. The first recognised two people for Lifetime Membership.

Merle Neate has been a keen player and a reliable member of the committee, having been Providore for many years, as well as Treasurer and club President. Merle has organised the catering, decorating and clearing of tables at many of the club's celebrations, and through all the interruptions the club has endured she has always been on hand organising social activities to keep members in touch with each other. Merle has also been the club's representative on Gold Coast Regional Croquet for many years, and was the region's representative on Croquet Queensland's Governing committee for several years.

The second recipient is Maria Barrett, who has been involved with the club as President, player and historian. Maria supported the committee in its social endeavours and followed through with any business that Croquet QLD Management required. The traditional Association Croquet game is her favoured game of choice, and although AC is small in player numbers, Maria continues to play and enjoy her time on the court. She has been a great advocate for keeping the club in the public eye in Broadbeach.

To keep the lawn well cared for, the committee purchased a new mower. Members marked the occasion with a celebratory lunch at the newly updated Broadbeach Bowls Club, and the greenkeeper appreciated the addition to his equipment for keeping the lawn playable.

Broadbeach club members celebrating the arrival of the new mower.

A social group of younger people also booked the court and had a go at croquet. They really enjoyed their time playing, and hopefully croquet will be on their calendar for more social activities to come.

A social group of younger people who booked the Broadbeach court for a game of croquet.

By Edrae, Broadbeach. From the Croquet Newsletter, May/June 2026, pages 6-8.