West Toowoomba Croquet Club Centenary — and a Busy Year So Far

Planning started in early January for the celebration of our club's Centenary on 14th February 2026. A sub-committee was initiated to decide on a format, catering, invitations, advertising, commemorative badges and of course a Centenary cake.

Similar to the event of 1926, a formal setting was adopted with brunch, President's welcome, speeches by dignitaries and followed by social croquet. Corflute signs were ordered, invitations sent and the local media contacted. Gazebos were sourced in case of rain.

On the day, we contended with misty rain, local newspaper non-appearance, invited MPs including Premier & Sports Minister non-appearance, and had just over 50 people attending. The Mayor of Toowoomba Region, Mr Geoff McDonald, spoke of the importance of clubs like this in the community fabric. CAQ President Michael Eddiehausen attended, as did Councillor Tim McMahon. A Channel 7 reporter/cameraman spent some time interviewing and an excellent report was screened on TV.

A highlight of the day was the presentation of the framed jacket and medals belonging to Mrs Betty Belz, who represented Qld and Australia, by her husband, Life Member Mr Russell Belz, as a memorial.

Framed jacket and medals belonging to Mrs Betty Belz, presented by Life Member Mr Russell Belz

Just one week later, we were in the throes of the Darling Downs Region Tournament — Association Play starting 21/22nd February, Ricochet singles on the 24th, then Golf singles and doubles the following weekend. We thank our able honorary lawn keepers, as our courts stood up to play very well despite the lack of real rain. Our House Committee ladies provided morning and afternoon teas and were assisted by members of Dalby Croquet Club.

The busy month was summed up by President Bob Taylor, who commented that he was REALLY looking forward to a 3-week caravan break.

Also this year: Kaz Boswell organised a "Lawn Legends" Golf competition for our club members, running over 5 consecutive Sunday mornings in May. Six teams were involved, with a trophy and a small monetary reward. The trophy was made and donated by Kaz, with valued help from Amanda (and partner Michael). It was won by "The Hasbeens" (Phillip & David) and now takes pride of place in the clubhouse.

The Lawn Legends trophy, made and donated by Kaz Boswell

Three WTCC members and 11 members from Toowoomba Club made the journey to Norfolk Island to compete for the annual Convicts Cup, organised by Go-See Touring. It was a complete success — the organisation was seamless, the weather cool with some showers, and the cricket ground broken into 10 croquet courts was challenging, but the camaraderie was entirely worthwhile. Toowoomba club member Alyson Nolan played exceptionally well and made it to the play-off for overall winner. Norfolk Island was at its historical best — recommended again for next year.

This event allowed us to rub shoulders with players from a wide variety of Queensland clubs including Cairns, Kingaroy, Warwick and a smattering of South East Queensland clubs.

WTCC and Toowoomba Club members at the Convicts Cup, Norfolk Island

Copies of the 60-page booklet "The History of West Toowoomba Croquet Club 1925–2026" and Centenary badges are available for $10 each plus postage.