Farewell croquet afternoon for Mrs. O'Connell

Regret at the departure from Toowoomba of Mrs. M. O'Connell who, for the past 16 years, has been a member of the West Toowoomba Croquet Club, was expressed by speakers at a farewell croquet afternoon which was given her by the president and members of the club. When she presented a gift to Mrs. O'Connell on behalf of the members, Mrs. E. A. McConachie (president), paid tribute to the valuable services rendered to the club by the guest of honour who, she said, had practically held every office during the 16 years. She hoped that Mrs. O'Connell would continue her croquet interests in Brisbane where she would reside. She had been a tower of strength to the club, and would be greatly missed by fellow members. Mrs. McConachie's remarks were endorsed by Mesdames Elvery (vice-president) and Flegler (captain of the club). Mrs. O'Connell was also presented with a spray of orchids and narcissus by the president, as well as with the prizes which were won for croquet competitions by Mesdames Bullock and Searle. They had been donated by Mrs. Elvery and Miss Fryar. Mrs. O'Connell expressed thanks to the members for their gifts, and said she would greatly miss the friendships made during her years of croquet at the West Toowoomba Club. She would also treasure the ivory card which had been autographed by the members, and given to her as a keepsake. In addition to the guest of honour those present included, Mesdames McConachie, Elvery, M. Dean, Flegler, Webber, Bullock, Cooke, Alroe, Stevens, Searle, Quinn, Handscombe, A. McBride, R. McBride (Mackay), Healy, Gilbert, de Fraine and K. Sandberg, and Miss Fryar. Tea was served in the club house at a long, white-topped table attractively arranged with low bowls of autumn-tinted flowers.

The article as it was printed in The Toowoomba Chronicle, 28 May 1949. Scan from Trove, National Library of Australia. (Trove, National Library of Australia)