Media Releases

The YORK & DISTRICTS COMMUNITY MATTERS - December 2024 Page 12

YORK CROQUET CLUB 

A BUSY YEAR

By: Club reporter Eric Ayling. 

above: Barbara Ryan (left presents prizes to the Quiz Night winners

It's been a busy year for York Croquet Club in 2024.  In addition to regular club play, the club has hosted its annual Croquet Challenge, 4 successful tournaments and a number of regular visiting groups (e.g. The Red Hatters and Dunroughin').

The facilities, which are amongst the best for croquet in the State, were further improved during the course of 2024 with the installation of a new boundary fence, better signage and refreshed paintwork.  Thanks go to club President, Kay Anderson, who donated the funds to enable the installation of the new fence.

At the AGM in October, the opportunity was taken to acknowledge long serving members.  Dorothy Bull was awarded life membership for 20 years of dedicated service to the club and 10 year service badges were awarded to 8 club members, including Pat McGregor who has been a member of the club for over 40 years!

Coming up, the club will host its regular New Year's celebration, starting on New Year's Eve and extending into the small hours of 1 January 2025.  Also coming up , in February, the club will again hold the York Croquet Challenge.  Held on Tuesday nights during February, this is a fun competition for people who are not club members.  All that's needed is a team of 2 - the club provides the rest.  If you are interested in entering a team, contact me on 0419 941 882.

The photo shows Barbara Ryan (organiser) presenting the winning table with their winnings at another recent club event - a Quiz Night.  A special thanks to York Co-op for providing thee prizes.

--oo0oo--

From: The York & Districts Community Matters December 2022.  Page 15.

YORK CROQUET CLUB

By Club Reporter, Eric Ayling

CROQUET CHALLENGE ON AGAIN

On the four Tuesday nights in February 2023, York Croquet Club will host the annual Croquet Challenge.  The Challenge is for anyone who is not a member of the Croquet Club and requires a team of 2.  The Challenge is a popular fun event with club members acting as advisors on what shots to play.  If you would like to enter a team, you can contact me (Eric Ayling) on 0419 941 882.

On 17th and 18th November, the Club held its Golf Croquet Doubles Championships.  Dan Ryan and Rod Carter defeated more fancied opponents to remain undefeated for the whole tournament - congratulations Dan and Rod!  Denis and Dorothy Bull were runners up.

The Club has now switched to its summer night-time schedule.  So,  golf croquet is played on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings at 7.00 p.m. and 7.30 a.m. on Mondays for the early birds.  Why not drop down one evening (or morning) and we'll show you how to play?

From The York and Districts Community Matters February 2021.  Page 16

Brand New Balls

By Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

With generous help from York & Districts Cooperative, York Croquet Club has just invested in 5 brand new sets of balls.  The new balls replace 4 sets of old and worn balls.  The balls cost $500 a set.  York Co-op donated the funds for one set and the Club paid for the other three.  Pictured with a new set of secondary balls are Club members Bob Ashworth, Denis Bull, Helen Giles, Carol Carter and Rob Sachse.

During February, the Club will hold its annual Croquet Challenge.  This event is open to anyone who is not a club member and is played on Tuesday evenings.  Teams of two entering the Challenge play each other over the 4 weeks with the winning team receiving the Croquet Challenge perpetual trophy.

The Australia Day Singles is played at Nedlands Croquet Club each year.  This year's winner was Jeff Newcombe from Como  Croquet Club with Eric Ayling from York Croquet Club runner-up.

The York & Districts Community Matters - October 2020.  Page 16.

HERE'S TO THE HELPERS

By Club Reporter - Eric Ayling

On Monday 21 September, St John's Ambulance representatives visited York Croquet Club to demonstrate how to use the defibrillator located at the club and show club members how to perform CPR.  18 club members attended.  Under the watchful eye of Katherine Davies, the photo shows club member Sue Sachse performing CPR on the St John's androgenous dummy, introduced thus by Katherine "his name is Anne"

At the end of October, York will again host the annual York Invitational tournament.  The tournament attracts top players from all over the state.  If you are interested in seeing some top level croquet, why not drop in on either Saturday 31 October or Sunday 1 November?

The club has also recommenced its monthly sausage sizzle, held on the first Friday of each month.  The afternoon starts with croquet at 3.00 p.m. followed by the sausage sizzle at 6.00 p.m.  Non-members are welcome so why not come down, have members show you how to play then join us at the sausage sizzle?  The cost (covering both play and the sausage sizzle) is $5 for non-members.

From the York & Districts Community Matters - September 2020

above:  Helpers Glenys Marsh, Sue Sachse, Kay Anderson and Chris Pert with the goodies.  Picture by Helen Amyes.

HERES TO THE HELPERS

By Club Reporter Eric Ayling

In our regular reports on the activities of the York Croquet Club, we frequently mention that we have run yet another successful tournament.  Well, it's true and here's a large part of why.

On the weekend of the 15/16 August, York Croquet Club hosted the annual York Country Doubles.  Club volunteers are pictured with some of the goodies provided to the participants.  The volunteers not only made some of the goodies on display, but served them, kept the urns topped up, washed the dishes .....  With that and great lunches beautifully prepared lawns and a well managed tournament, is it any wonder that the tournament was fully subscribed before we had even advertised it?  The Over 65's tournament doesn't happen until next March but it is already half full.

After a weekend of variable weather (a beautiful day on the Saturday and bucketing with rain on the Sunday), the ultimate winners were Brett and Janine McHardy (both State representatives) from Forrest Park Croquet Club.  Runners up were Peter Brown and Maggie Cussell from Gosnells croquet Club.  Thanks a bunch to the York Mens Shed for the loan of 2  braziers which were greatly appreciated by the players on the Sunday.

The Club is also recommencing its monthly sausage sizzle.  The first will be on Friday, 4th September.  Play will commence at 3.00 p.m. with the sausage sizzle at 6.00 p.m.  For non-members, the charge is $5 covering both the sausage sizzle, and, if you wish, playing croquet.

above: Peter Swanson lines up a shot at the State Open.

Peter Swanson from Forrest Park Croquet Club (pictured) is not in normal croquet gear but then neither were the weather conditions for the State Open Golf Croquet tournament held on the weekend of 16/17 May.  Flippers and snorkel seemed quite appropriate in the pouring rain.

Despite the conditions, Denis Bull, from York Croquet Club, had an outstanding tournament.  He came second in his block, thereby reaching the final 6.  4 players had 3 wins in the final, including Denis.  He came third on net points.

Earlier in the month, York Croquet Club, in support of the Merredin community day "Destination Merredin" took croquet equipment to Merredin so that attendees could have a go.  This is the second time York Croquet Club has done this, an effort sincerely appreciated by both the organisers and participants.

Also earlier in May, the State Trefoil Guild (Girl Guides) made its annual sojourn to York to play croquet.  This has become a fixture over the years.  All attending, both from the Trefoil Guild and the Club, thoroughly enjoyed the day.

   From the York & Districts Community Matters - May 2015 Edition Page 20.

above:  York Club Champion, Dorothy Bull, with Club Vice-Chairman,

John Bullock and runner up Eric Ayling.

YORK CROQUET

CLUB CHAMPION - DOROTHY BULL

- By Club Reporter Eric Ayling

Dorothy Bull, displaying all the tactical guile which led to her selection as a State representative, won the York Croquet Club Golf Croquet Championship held at York Croquet Club on 26 April.  Dorothy did not lose a game in her block and played the winner of the other block, Eric Ayling in the final.  She won the tightly contested final 7:6.

On 24 April, the club held a raffle, selling tickets outside the IGA supermarket.  The winner of the firewood raffle was Helen Johns and the winner of the meat raffle was Lynley whose surname was not recorded.

From the York & Districts Community Matters - April 2015 Edition Page 19

above: Robin Milner and Selena Carmichael receiving the Croquet Challenge prizes from club president Peter Bailey.

YORK CROQUET

- By Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

BENDIGO BANK team, represented by Robin Milner, won the croquet challenge again.  This challenge, which has been run annually is open to teams of non croquet club members.  This is the third time the Bendigo Bank team have won the trophy in the last 4 years.  The competition was close, with some very good croquet being played.

York Croquet Club ran the Doug Fortescue over 65s golf croquet tournament on the weekend 14th and 15th March.  Despite warnings of heavy rain and strong winds due to a cyclone heading our way, the weather was kind.  Players came from Sorrento, Floreat and City Beach to play in the tournament.  This competition is for players over 65 years of age.  Players have a different partner for each game.

Bruce McGregor, York, won the tournament with Michael Lennon, also a York Croquet Club member, runner up.  The Neville Giles award for making two hoops with one ball in the same shot was not won this year.  Special thanks to Helen Giles who provided the sandwiches for lunch, Dorothy Fairclough who provided us with morning and afternoon teas, Helen Lancaster and Jan Barker who performed kitchen duties.

Our lawns are in excellent shape this year thanks to the dedicated team of green keepers.

Eric Ayling represented Western Australia in the Australian Men's AC (Association) tournament and the Eire Cup AC interstate competition.  These two competitions are run after each other with a total of 9 days straight play.  The tournaments were won by Victoria and New South Wales respectively.

From the York & Districts Community Matters - March 2015 Page 16

Above - Doubles winners John Bullock and Bruce McGregor

YORK CROQUET

by- Club Report Eric Ayling

OLD LADIES IN LONG WHITE SKIRTS ...

... and tea and cucumber sandwiches with the vicar.  Is that your perception of what croquet is about?

Well, that is way wide of the mark these days.  Gone are the white uniforms.  As can be seen in the photo, dress these days is quite casual.  Increasingly, croquet is also being played by younger players who have come to dominate the upper eschelons of the sport.

And, perhaps croquet never was as stuffy as popularly portrayed.  For instance, did you know that, in the early days, one major attraction of croquet was the prospect that it presented for flirting with unchaperoned ladies?  The trick was to send the lady's ball off the court and into the bushes so that there was an opportunity for canoodling.

So prevalent was this that, in Boston, USA, croquet was denounced from the pulpit.  "He who holds the mallet grasps the naked vice" or words to that effect were thundered on both sides of the Atlantic.

York Croquet Club has retaining boards around its courts so the prospects for flirting in the bushes are somewhat limited, but you never know ... 

In the meantime, the York Croquet Club doubles championship has been run and won by Bruce McGregor and John Bullock with Denis and Dorothy Bull runners up.  Congratulations to Bruce and John.

March also sees the return of the Croquet Challenge, a popular competition for non-members.  This is taking place each Tuesday evening at 7.00p.m.  Spectators are welcome to come and see what the game is about.

...

From the York & Districts Community Matters - January 2015 Edition Page 16.

above:  Mick Wood and Eric Ayling at State team practice at Nedlands Croquet Club.

YORK CROQUET

2 York Croquet Players in State Team

 - By Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

For the first time, there will be 2 York Croquet Club members in the State team selected for the interstate carnival in Sydney in March.  Four men and four women will be representing each of the 6 states in the competition.

Mick Wood is representing Western Australia for the first time since returning from Tasmania where he represented that State on a number of occasions.  Eric Ayling has been a regular State team member since 2006 and is currently the second ranked male player in the team.  York Croquet Club congratulates them both on their selection.

The Club is also planning a second round of its popular Croquet Challenge in March.  The competition is for teams of 2 people with the only qualification being that they are not Club members - preferably, never having played croquet.  It is an informal, fun competition so, if you have been thinking about having a go, here's you opportunity.  We'll organise you a partner if you don't have one.  Just contact me (Dorothy Bull) on

9641 2196.

                                                                                                                                                                        From The York & Districts Community Matters - November 2014 Edition Page 16

“Eric Ayling receiving his runner-up award from tournament manager Jannine Hawker”.

 BUSY NOVEMBER FOR CROQUET CLUB  - Club Report - Dorothy Bull

A busy November is in store for York Croquet Club.  The Club will be hosting its popular Croquet Challenge on each Tuesday evening during the month.  Teams of 2 from businesses and other clubs and societies play each other in a round robin format.  The competition is a relaxed and fun way to get an introduction to croquet.

Also in November, the Club hosts its annual York Invitational tournament.  Top players from all over the State are invited to compete in the tournament.  This year will see players form Bunbury, Mandurah, Brookton as well as Perth and York competing.

October was a relatively quiet month for tournament play for York players.  However, Eric Ayling did compete in the Moorabinda (Bunbury) Spring Carnival, coming runner-up.  He has also been nominated by the West Australian Croquet Association for ANZ Sports Star for 2014.

From The York & Districts Community Matters - July 2014 Edition Page 16

June 2014 has been a successful month for York Croquet Club.  - Club reporter Dorothy Bull

Eric ayling won the State Open Association Croquet tournament which was held at Nedlands Croquet Club on the long weekend in June.

Dorothy Bull won the State Open Ladies Golf Croquet tournament which was held at Gosnells Croquet Club 14th and 15th June.

John Bullock and Dorothy Bull came third in the Gosnells 12 Open Handicap Doubles Golf Croquet Tournament on the 7th and 8th June.

The winners of the raffle held by the York Croquet Club on Thursday 19th June were Gale, from Mansfield Street, who won the Wood Raffle and Sally Fleay who won the Meat Voucher Raffle.

The winter timetable for croquet is:  Association Croquet on Tuesday afternoons at 2.00pm, Golf Croquet on Wednesday mornings 9.00am, Friday evenings 6.00pm, Saturday afternoons at 2.00pm and Tuesday mornings at 9.00am.

From The York & Districts Community Matters - June 2014 Edition Page 16

YORK CROQUET by Club Reporter Eric Ayling

BUSY MONTH FOR THE CROQUET CLUB

On 4 May York Croquet Club members Denis Bull and Frits and Birgit Schreuder helped set up a croquet demonstration at the open day at Government House.

The demonstration attracted quite a bit of interest with members of the public being shown how to play and participating in games of golf croquet.

In a similar vein, following an invitation from the event organisers, Eric Ayling attended the Merredin Heritage Day on 11 May.  He set up 2 croquet courts and provided instructions on how to play.  With both courts in use at the same time, he was kept very busy.  Some attending expressed interest in re-establishing croquet in Merredin.

On 14 May, the Trefoil Guild visited York.  Under the guidance of Denis and Dorothy Bull and Pam Warner, they spent a pleasant afternoon playing croquet.  The Trefoil Guild has become a regular annual visitor to the Club.

Finally on 24 May, the Golf Croquet Club Championship was conducted.  The winner was Denis Bull, runner-up Eric Ayling with John Bullock coming third.  Congratulations (again!) to Denis Bull.

From: The York & Districts Community Matters - May 2014 Edition Page 16.

Above: Eric Ayling receiving his Bronze Medal from the Queensland Governor Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley AC.

YORK CROQUET by Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

STATE REPRESENTATIVE DELIGHTED WITH RESULTS.

York Croquet Club's State Team member, Eric Ayling, recently returned from Brisbane where he competed in the annual Interstate Carnival.  Eric represented the State in both the Gold Medal tournament (played between the winners of the Bronze Medal from each state) and the Eire Cup (the interstate teams competition).  The Gold, Silver and Bronze medals were presented at the Presentation Dinner at the end of the Carnival.

Despite being the lowest ranked player in the Gold Medal tournament, Eric still won 3 of his 10 games.  In the Eire Cup he won 7 of his 10 singles games and, with his doubles partner Jannine Hawker, won 3 of the 5 doubles games.  Eric said that the results were very pleasing for him personally and as a contribution to the overall team result.

Denis Bull has also continued his winning ways.  The association croquet 3rd Division Singles tournament (the Northam Trophy) was held on the weekend of 12/13 April.  Denis came first, winning all of his games.

From: The York & Districts Community Matters - April 2014 Edition.  Page 16.

Helen Lancaster, Robert McLellan and Dorothy Fairclough early on Tuesday morning..

OVER 65’S GOLF CROQUET TOURNAMENT IN YORK

By Club Reporter, Dorothy Bull.

York Croquet Club hosted the Doug Fortescue Over 65’s Golf Croquet Tournament on the weekend 15th and 16th March.

A different doubles format was used with each player being allocated a different doubles team partner for each game and the opposing teams were chosen by random draw.  The format was well accepted by participants.

A very tight finish resulted in Denis Bull, from York, winning with 6 games and 15 points, second was Michael Lennon with 6 games and 14 points and third was Mike Galvin 6 games and 3 points.

York Croquet Club have changed the days Association Croquet is now being played to Tuesday evenings starting at 7.00pm.  Golf Croquet is still being played on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings at 7.00pm, and Tuesday mornings at 6.30am.

For enquiries please contact our president, Peter Bailey, on  0404 097 008, or Dorothy Bull, Secretary, on 9641 2196.

For coaching enquiries in both Association and Golf Croquet, please contact Eric Ayling on 9641 1136.

From The York & Districts Community Matters - March 2014 Edition.  Page 16.

Above:  The Place getters in the 2014 Croquet Challenge

CROQUET CHALLENGE WINNERS DECIDED

By:  Club Reporter Eric Ayling.

The 2014 Croquet Challenge was conducted during February.  After a tight tussle Bendigo Bank, represented by Robyn Milner and Selina Carmichael were the winners with Jackie Jenkin and Gill Stubbs the runners up.  Participating for the first time HB Tiling was a creditable third.

Looking ahead, the annual York over 65s Progressive Doubles will be held on the weekend on 15/16 March.  This is a popular fun tournament with the participants having a different doubles partner for each game.  If you have never seen croquet played before, why not come down and watch?  There will be plenty of club members there to explain what is happening.

Meanwhile, the writer will be heading off on 10 March to Brisbane to play in the Australian Gold Medal, Men's National Singles and the Interstate Teams competition (the Eire Cup).

From The York & Districts Community Matters - February 2014 Edition.  Page 16

Above:  Pip Corteen at a coaching sessin with Eric Ayling.

YORK CROQUET CLUB

By Club Reporter, Dorothy Bull

Eric Ayling, from York Croquet Club, has won again. Eric came first in the Association Croquet Bronze Medal tournament ahead of Jannine Hawker from Moorabinda, Bunbury.

Eric is an accredited Golf croquet referee, an Accredited Association Croquet referee, has the highest level accreditation in Association Croquet coaching in W.A. as well as the highest level accreditation Golf Croquet coaching.  He is the Western Australian State Director of Coaching, and in this capacity travels to croquet clubs throughout the state presenting workshops and lessons.  Eric has just completed coaching courses in both Golf and Association Croquet in York. 

Helen Lancaster, one of the attendees at one of Eric’s coaching sessions in York had this to say about the courses:  “At whatever level or genre of croquet we may wish to pursue Eric has been consistently helpful and encouraging. He has made coaching sessions enjoyable, challenging and informative. His knowledge, expertise and experience are a great contribution, while his intelligent and well-mannered approach is a valuable asset to the club. I am sure that his current coaching programmes can only be instrumental in attracting new members, and therefore of benefit to the club."

The Croquet Challenge is on again in February 2014. 

We are currently running a club singles competition over 12 weeks.  After 9 weeks, Denis Bull is in the lead with 27 points, John Bullock second 19 points, and Dorothy Bull third 18 points. 

During the hot summer months croquet is now being played in the evenings.  Golf Croquet – Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings  at 7.00pm, Association Croquet – Thursday evenings at 7.00pm, and for those who like to get up early, Golf Croquet is also played on Tuesday mornings at 6.00am.  It is very pleasant playing croquet in the evenings of hot summer days.  Come along and give it a go.  Contact Dorothy Bull on 9641 2196 or Peter Bailey on 0404 097008.

From The York & Districts Community Matters - December 2013 Edition.  Page 15.

LOCAL PLAYER WINS YORK INVITATIONAL

By Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

Above:  Tournament winner, Eric Ayling, hands runner up, Ross Marshall, his bottle of olive oil.

On the weekend of the 2nd and 3rd of November, York Croquet Club held its annual York Invitational tournament.  Participants came from far and wide including 2 from Bunbury, 1 from Mandurah, 2 from York and the remaining players from clubs in Perth.

Local player, Eric Ayling, was the eventual winner with Ross Marshall from Como Croquet Club the runner up.  In addition to monetary prizes, the winner and runner up also received a bottle of the York Croquet Club olive oil.  Eric has since been selected to again represent the State in the interstate teams competition (the Eire Cup) in March next year.

York Croquet Club President, Peter Bailey said “York Croquet Club is delighted to host events like this and supports the continued running of the York Invitational each year.”

Since then, York Croquet Club has been playing host to Year 9 students from York High School.  A new competition based format has been adopted with prizes for the winner and runner up doubles teams.  This format is proving to be very popular with the students.  One Year 9 class has already completed its competition whilst the competition for the other Year 9 class is currently under way.

  From The York & Districts Community Matters October 2013 Edition Page 20.

 Croquet Come and Try Day

By Club Reporter Pat McGregor

Above: Dorothy Bull and Eric Ayling at the CroquetWest Trophy Day

On Saturday 12 October, York Croquet Club will be open to the public for a come and try day.  Anyone is welcome to come at any time between 9.00 am and 4.00 pm and have a go.  Instruction and playing equipment will be provided free of charge so, if you have ever wondered what croquet is all about, here's your opportunity find out!

Also, starting on Tuesday 5th November and running each Tuesday in November, the annual York Croquet Challenge will be held.  This popular competition is strictly for non-members (mostly novices) and is held in the evenings to make it easy for anyone to enter.  All that is required is a team of 2 or, if you would like to enter and don't have a partner, we'll find you one.

On 21 September, the West Australian Croquet Association's annual Trophy Day presentations were held at the Forrest Park Croquet Club.  From York Croquet Club, Denis Bull was presented with the Northam Trophy (3rd Division Association Croquet) and award for winning the B Grade Golf Croquet Tournament.  Eric Ayling (also from York) along with Ian Dumergue, was presented with the award for winning the Open Doubles.

Eric Ayling and Dorothy Bull also attended as members of the State teams (for Association and Golf Croquet respectively).  Both teams finished runner up to Victoria in their interstate competitions.

From The York & Districts Community Matters - September 2013 Edition Page 16

OVER 65's a GREAT SUCCESS

By Club Reporter Eric Ayling

On the first weekend in August, York Croquet Club held its annual Doug Fortescue Over 65s doubles tournament.  The tournament was played using a progressive format with each player playing with a different partner each game and the winner decided by the greatest number of games won (with partners) by any player.  As usual, the tournament was a great success with the eventual winner being Peter Brown from Mandurah with Pat McGregor from York runner-up.

Also in August, the Club conducted a combined raffle and book sale outside the IGA supermarket.  Winner of the firewood raffle (blue ticket E41) was Lynn and the winner of the meat voucher raffle (purple ticket E81) was Veronica.

At the time of writing, Club members Denis and Dorothy Bull are in Newcastle playing in the golf croquet Men's and Women's National Singles.  Dorothy, who was selected as a State Team member, will go on to represent Western Australia in the Interstate Cup.  The Club wishes Dorothy and the Team success in what will be a tough campaign.

Looking forward, things will be a little quiet next month as the lawns regenerate after verti-mowing but the end of the year will be busy with a Come-and-Try Day on 12 October, the York High School program in October/November, and the Croquet Challenge and York Invitational in November.

From The York & Districts Community Matters - August 2013 Edition Page 16.

Above:  Dorothy Bull in the WA State Team Golf Croquet games uniform.

York Croquet Club  

By Club Report Dorothy Bull

The 8 members of the Golf Croquet Western Australian State Team came to York for a practice session on Saturday 20th July 2013, then went on to Narrogin for further practice on Sunday 21st July.   The team, which includes Dorothy Bull of York, will be heading off to Maitland, near Newcastle, NSW, to compete for the Interstate Shield at the end of August.

The York Croquet Club Inc is holding an Over 65s Progressive Doubles Golf Croquet Tournament on the weekend 3rd and 4th August 2013.  The Over 65s competition was started in York because we realised there were increasing numbers of senior players throughout the state who were no longer entering tournaments because they were feeling intimidated by the fast, hard hitting, golf croquet being played by younger players at the open tournaments.  By introducing the Over 65s we are ensuring competitive games are still being enjoyed by people of all ages.

Our greens are looking decidedly straw coloured at the moment due to the recent frosts.  After the annual maintenance, to be carried out at the end of winter, they will be back to their beautiful verdant colour.

Doubles Tournament at York Croquet Club

By club reporter Dorothy Bull

On the weekend 15th to 17th March York Croquet Club held their annual York Country Doubles Golf Croquet Tournament.  The greens were good, the weather was kind and everyone enjoyed the weekend.

After a 2 block round robin where everyone played all the others in their block, the players were allocated to one of 4 sections depending on the results in the round robin.  X Block was won by Martin Clarke from Mandurah and Kim Reynolds from Moorabinda, Bunbury.  Both are state team players.  Y Block was won by John Bullock from York and Eleanor Roberts from Cambridge, Floreat Park.  Z Block was won by Graeme Springer and Joan Handley from Bayswater, and the Good Egg block was won by Gordon McFarlane and Helen Amyes from York.  Helen has only been playing since November 2012.

In the meantime, Eric Ayling played in the WA state team which came second in the 2013 Eire (interstate) Cup, held in South Australia.

York Croquet Club congratulates the York Bowling Club pennants teams for the highly successful outcome of the pennants season,

York & District Community Matters, February 2013

Eric Ayling and Ian Dumergue

TOURNAMENT SUCCESS FOR YORK CROQUET CLUB

York Croquet Club members have again tasted tournament success in January.  Pat McGregor and her partner won the Night Golf Croquet Handicap Doubles run at Narrogin Croquet Club over 11th  – 13th January.  Eric Ayling and his partner, Ian Dumergue, won the State Association Croquet Double title, including defeating the top seeds in a nail-bighting decider 18:17.  That tournament was held on the Australia Day weekend.

Eric has also been selected in the State Association Croquet Team.   The interstate tournament will be held in Adelaide in March. 

The Club has also held a highly successful Australia Day sausage sizzle at Bunnings in Midland.  “It was a fantastic day, not just for the fund raising but because of the interest that it generated in croquet ”, said Club Chairman, Peter Bailey.

Club Reporter - Dorothy Bull

York & District Community Matters, December 2012.

Simon Saint, John Pert, Chris Pert, Heather Saint.

CROQUET CLUB SWITCHES TO NIGHT PLAY

As normally happens at this time of year, York Croquet Club has switched all of its club play to night timeslots.  Golf croquet is played on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evenings, association croquet on Thursdays and ricochet on Mondays.  All starting times are 7.00 p.m.

Club chairman, Peter Bailey explained: “It is often too hot to play during the day at this time of the year and the club takes seriously its duty of care to members to avoid unnecessary exposure to the sun.  Besides, the nights are great for playing croquet during summer”.

Anyone is welcome to join club members on these days so, if you would like to find out a bit more about croquet, why not come down to the club?

November was also the month for the first round of the annual Croquet Challenge.  First and second places were keenly contested with Pert’s Pantry (Chris and John Pert) and Simon and Heather Saint finishing on the same number of wins (6) and the same number of points for (47).  In the end, they were separated by net points with Chris and John 2 points ahead.  They will both now compete in the finals to be played after the second round in February.

Club Reporter – Eric Ayling

ALL GO AT THE CROQUET CLUB

With the annual maintenance of the Croquet Club’s lawns completed in August, good growth September and levelling and new barriers around the edges (thanks to much hard work by members) everything is set for a great new season of croquet.

The first cab off the rank will be a COME AND TRY CROQUET DAY on Sunday 14 October.  If you have ever wondered what croquet is about, here is your opportunity to find out.  The Club will be open from 9.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. and anyone can come down to the Club and have a go.  All equipment and instruction provided. 

Next will be, the Club’s annual Invitational Tournament on 20/21 October.  Players from all over the State are invited to participate in this tournament.  If you are not doing anything in particular, why not come and watch?  There will be Club members there to explain what is happening.

Following this, the Club will hold the first round of its annual Croquet Challenge.  This is a fun competition for inexperienced players (members are excluded) in teams of 2.  Anyone can enter - we’ll find you a partner if you don’t have one.  It takes place on each Tuesday evening (4 weeks) in November.  The entry fee is $40 per team.

Club Reporter – Eric Ayling

DENIS TAKES STATE RICOCHET CHAMPIONSHIP – AGAIN!

In a highly competitive tournament on 4 and 5 February, York Croquet Club member, Denis Bull, became the State Ricochet Champion – for the second year in a row!  This is a great achievement and a tribute to the work that Denis has put in to develop his own unique and very effective technique.

Ricochet, one of three croquet codes (the others being association croquet and golf croquet) is quite popular in the eastern states and is now gathering a following here.  Ricochet is played at the Club every Monday evening at 7.00 p.m. and anyone is welcome to come along and give it a try.

In the meantime, the second round of the Club’s popular Croquet Challenge has commenced.  There are teams of 2 from Dog’s Bollocks, York Landscape Supplies, York Pharmacy/York Quality Butcher, Ray White, Avon Valley Tyre Service, York Medical Centre, Bernie & Judy from Northam & Jackie and Jan from York.  At the half-way point, there were two unbeaten teams.

At the beginning of March, the winner and runner-up from round 1 will play off against the winner and runner-up from round 2 to determine the overall winner and trophy holder.

Eric Ayling  Club Reporter

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" January 2012

By: Club Reporter Eric Ayling

Budding croquet players from the Medical Centre

A CHRISTMAS PARTY WITH A DIFFERENCE!

York Medical Centre was deliberating over what to do for an end of year celebration and struck on the idea of playing croquet.  So, the Croquet Club was sounded out on the possibility.  The response: “Yes, great idea, when do you want to come?”

So, on 4 December, 16 eager participants arrived at the Croquet Club.  A fun time was had by all, including Club members there to help.  If your organisation would like to run a function with a difference (it doesn’t have to be Christmas), why not contact Club secretary, Dorothy Bull, on 9641 2196?

During November, the first round of the Club’s annual Croquet Challenge was played.  Robyn Milner and Selina Carmichael (Bendigo Bank) came first with Keryn Yeing and Bruce Fowler second.  They will now play off against the first and second place getters in the second round in February.  Sisters Robyn and Keryn, then representing the post office, have previously won the Challenge.

On 10/11 December, Juniors Nathan and Sam Aurisch-Pike played in the C Grade Golf Croquet Championship at Nedlands Croquet Club.  Both made the finals with Nathan coming runner-up and Sam 6th.  Congratulations to both.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" November 2011

By: Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

John Riches demonstrates an unusual croquet shot to a fascinated audience

CROQUET NATIONAL COACHING DIRECTOR IN YORK

John Riches, National Coaching Director for croquet recently visited WA.  The primary purpose of his visit was to accredit York Club coach, Eric Ayling, as a Level 2 coach.  John spent the period 27-29 September in York doing this.  He and Eric then spent 3 days at other clubs running coaching clinics for players.

“John’s knowledge of the sport of croquet and the art of coaching is second to none world-wide,” said Eric.  “It was a fantastic opportunity both to be coached by him and to coach with him.”

The Club is now gearing up for the November Croquet Challenge.  8 teams of 2 representing local businesses will compete in a round robin series of games over 4 weeks.  The winner and runner-up will then progress to the finals to be played after the second block in February.

The Club is also hosting the Year 9 group from the York and Districts High School.  This is the third year that this programme has been run.  Last year it resulted in the Club recruiting the two youngest players in the State – Nathan and Sam Aurisch-Pike.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" October 2011

By: Club Reporter Eric Ayling

Birgit Schreuder with her Certificate of Achievement on Trophy Day

YORK CROQUET PLAYER IN STATE TEAM

York Croquet Club member, Birgit Schreuder, has again represented the state in the Interstate Cup in Brisbane in September.  Birgit also played in the Women’s National Championship (also held in Brisbane in late August) in which she finished in the final eight.  This is a highly creditable performance and the second time in the last 3 years that a York player has made the final eight in a national championship.  Congratulations Birgit!

Birgit received her Certificate of Achievement from the Department of Sport and Recreation at the West Australian Croquet Association Trophy Day on 18 September.  This followed the completion of the Golf Croquet Champion of Champions event in which the writer finished third.

The focus at the Croquet Club has now shifted to forthcoming events.  These include a school group and the Club’s popular Croquet Challenge, both in November.  If you would like to enter a team of 2 in the Croquet Challenge, please contact Dorothy Bull on 9641 2196.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" December 2010  

by:  Club Reporter Eric Ayling

Above: Helen Fuller, Helen Giles (playing), Carol Needham, Shirley Haylock at an early morning practice.

It is 6.00 a.m. on a Wednesday morning.  Laughter echoes across the croquet court.  What is going on?

The Croquet bug has struck.  Helen Giles, Carol Needham, Helen fuller and Shirley Haylock are having a practice game at York Croquet Club.  Helen Fuller, the Club's newest member, got the b ug when she was walking past one afternoon.  Helen and Neville Giles were practicing and Helen came in to see what it was all about.  She was hooked!

"I love it" says Helen. And, just in case you think croquet is a ladies' game, half of the Club members are men.  Not that this stops the women from giving them a licking from time to time.

Others to have been smitten by the bug in November include the participants in the York Croquet Challenge, two Year 9 school groups and all of the Club regulars, though most of them had the bug some time ago.

Recent Club successes are Bill Roy, runner up in the Open 14 Point tournament held in York and Peter Bailey (winner of the Y Block) and Birgit Schreuder (winner of the Z Block) in the Golf Croquet Country Singles held at the Moorabinda Club (Bunbury).  Congratulations to all.

If you would like to discover what croquet is all about, just come down to the Club on Monday or Friday evening at 7,00 p.m.  Equipment and tuition are provided.  Everyone is welcome.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" November 2010  

by:  Club Reporter Dorothy Bull

Above: Social Croquet at York Croquet Club

It is one year in November since York Croquet Club had it’s 100th birthday, and what a year it has been.

Bill Roy won a state trophy, winning the  Forrest Park Division 2 Association Croquet Tournament.

Bruce and Pat McGregor won first place trophy in the Country Golf Croquet Doubles Tournament which was held at York in March.

Dorothy Bull won the State B Grade Singles competition held at Forrest Park, Mount Lawley in September.

The Nationals Golf Croquet Tournaments were held in Perth from 9th to 13th October.  Frits Schreuder and Pam Warner represented York in the doubles event, and Frits Schreuder in the singles event.  Several people from other states attended the tournaments, but failed to win, any of the events. Western Australian players were too good for them.  Accredited referees from York, Eric Ayling and Dorothy Bull, were two of the 6 referees who officiated at these tournaments.

The Club championships were won by: 

Association Croquet level play – Eric Ayling

Association Croquet Handicaps – Denis Bull

Golf Croquet Singles Level Play – Denis Bull

The AGM held in October, brought some new faces to the administration and management committee the club.  Eric Ayling remains as chairperson, Peter Bailey is vice chairperson, Lesley Ashburn has taken on the job of secretary, and Jan Griffin is our new treasurer.  New faces on the committee include Helen and Neville Giles.

We have had several groups visit us during the year, and each month we are inviting York clubs and organisations to join us for a social day of croquet.  So far the York Old Time Dance Club, the York Wildflower Society and the York Book Club, and the York Mobility Club have been our visitors. 

During May the Club hosted 4 National and 3 other top WA players in a National Squad practice. 

The very popular York Croquet Challenge is on again this November, and two classes from the school are going to give croquet a go!

Our accredited coach, Eric Ayling is running a coaching clinic on Friday mornings, and intends to run another shortly after this one is complete.

Some very brave members played croquet on Friday nights right through winter.  Now that the weather has warmed up, Golf Croquet is being played on Monday and Friday nights at 7.00pm.  Come along a have a hit.  There is more to the game than meets the eye, and it is good fun, and excellent exercise.

Association Croquet is still being played on Friday afternoons starting at 2.00pm.  It will not be long before this form of croquet will be played on an evening.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" - May 2010 Page 23.

by:  Club Reporter Eric Ayling

YORK CROQUET

POST OFFICE WINS CROQUET CHALLENGE

Above: Robin and Kerryn, winners of this year's Croquet Challenge.

This year's Croquet Challenge has been won by the team of sisters Robin Milner and Keryn Yeing, represent the York Post Office.  The finalists were Creative Construction 1 and York Glazing (placed 1 and 2 in the first round in December 2009) and York Post Office and Pert's Pantry (placed 1 and 2 in the second round in March 2010.)

The finals were held on 30 March and were hard fought.  The grand final between York Post Office and Pert's Pantry went to a tie break 13th hoop with the Post Office running out the eventual winners.  York Croquet Club would like to thank all participants and invite them to enter again next summer.

Congratulations too to Pat and Bruce McGregor from York Croquet Club who won the Golf Croquet Open Country Doubles title from Emma Ridgway (Cambridge) and Peter Hopwood (Gosnells).  The tournament was held at the York Croquet Club 27 and 28 March and was managed by Bill Roy and Frits Schreuder.

On 1 and 2 May, York Croquet Club will be hosting 4 members of the National Croquet Team in a 2 day competition.  The competition will comprise 4 WA first division players competing against the 4 National GTeam members in a mixture of doubles and singles play.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" - February 2010 Page 23.

by:  Club Reporter Eric Ayling

YORK CROQUET

THE CHALLENGE

"IT'S ON AGAIN"

The York Croquet Club Challenge is on again in 2010.  8 teams are competing in the first round which started on 20 January.  Two new teams (York Newsagency and York Pharmacy) are competing this year.  Ray White and Creative Constructions (with two teams) both have players who have never played before whilst York Glazing Services, Bendigo Bank and The Professionals all have players backing up for another season.  The series promises to be both competitive and hugely enjoyable.

The second round will commence early March and will be followed by a play-off between first and second place getters from each round.  The Challenge is great fun and, if you would like to enter a team of 2 players, just contact Pat McGregor on 9641 1184.

The York Cfroquet Club again held its traditional New Year's Eve/New Year celebrations at the Club grounds.  This year we were joined by 11 players from Cambridge Croquet Club.  A wonderful night of eating drinking and croquet was had by all, capped off with the presentation of life membership to the Club's longest serving player, Pat McGregor.

Club member Eric Ayling has again been selected in the State Association Croquet Team.  Eric will leave for Melbourne on 18 March to compete in the Men's National Championship and the Interstate Eire Cup.  

From "The York & Districts Community Matters" - January 2010 Page 23.

YORK CROQUET CLUB'S CENTENARY

by: Club Report Eric Ayling

Above: Eric Ayling presents the winners trophies to Peter Bailey and Dorothy Bull.

Well, York Croquet Club's Centenary celebrations have come and gone.  As reported in the December edition of Community Matters, the celebrations commenced on Saturday 28th November with a luncheon attended by 48 people followed by social croquet in the afternoon.  On Sunday 29th a golf croquet doubles tournament for handicaps of 8 or less was won by John and Dale Jury (Moorabinda) with Brian Hadley (Forrest Park) and Peter Hopwood (Gosnells) runners up.  On Wednesday 2nd December, a golf croquet doubles tournament for handicaps of 9 and over was won by Peter Bailey and Dorothy Bull (both York) and Alan Gillett and Pam Warner (both York) runners up - a clean sweep to York!  On Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th December an association croquet doubles tournament was won by Martin Clarke (Mandurah) and Jeff Newcombe (Victoria Park) with Carl Perrin (Nedlands) and Eric Ayling (York) runners up.

The Club thanks all of those members who contributed to the success of the week's celebrations.  Deserving of special mention are Bill Roy, who planned and managed the celebrations, and the Schreuder family, who organised the catering.

The Club would also like to thank the York Residency Museum for the brilliant work done in mounting a Community Exhibition to help celebrate the Centenary.  The exhibition, which will run for 6 months, explores the history of croquet and York Croquet Club and is well worth a visit.

Looking ahead, the Club has scheduled the first round of this season's Croquet Challenge to commence on 20 January with the second round in March and play-offs in April.  This competition, which only requires a team of two non-members, has proven to be very popular over the last few years, so get your entries in early!  The cost is $50.00 per team and Pat McGregor (9641 1184) can be contacted for enquiries and entries.

From "TheYork & Districts Community Matters" - December 2009 Page 30

    YORK CROQUET CLUB CELEBRATES 100 YEARS

by: Lindsay McNeill

above: York Croquet Club president, Eric Ayling, with Pat MvGregor, Joc Chipper, Aileen Gibbney, Joan Munckton all York or former York members with Ross Marshall from Como in period dress.

York Croquet Club launched its 100th anniversary celebrations with a display at the Residency museum and a sit-down luncheon at the tennis club-rooms on November 28.

The luncheon was one of a series of events to be held over the next week which was to include several club tournaments and an association event.

Representatives of clubs from around the state including Bunbury and Augusta and a number of metropolitan clubs joined with local club members and invited guests for the event.  A cake decorated with a croquet theme was cut by Yorki's longest serving member, Pat McGregor, at the end of the meal.

About 50 people were present including deputy Shire president, Brian Lawrance, and club sponsors.  A number of people stayed on for a round of social croquet in the afternoon.

In his address to the gathering, club president Eric Ayling, said croquet had been played in York from possibly as early as the 1879's, well before the club was formed on December 11, 1909.  The first croquet courts were located along side the bowling greens and tennis courts on the site the tennis club now occupies.

"The club was established to give the women something to do while the men were playing bowls and tennis.  In about 1912 the women's domain was invaded by JC Windsor who went on to represent Australia after leaving York," he said.

Another remarkable player was Sheila McDonald who joined the York club in 1984 aftger the closure of the Beverley Club.  She had made a name for herself having won the Australian championships four times between 1969 and 1983.  Les Gibbney became the club's second male member in 1984.  It was Les who coined the club's motto 'Old age and treachery will overcome youth and skill', Eric said.

York had just completed a successful series of training sessions for year nine students from York District High School.  "Wouldn't it be wonderful if York club could become the focal point of a revival of croquet in the Avon Valley?" he said.

The club had  been overwhelmed by the support provided for the event by businesses in town.  These included the Shire, Bendigo Bank, Creative Constructions, Professional Real Estate, John's Local Cleaners, Ray White, York Celebrant Services, Cellarbrations, York Co-op, York Newsagency, York Pharmacy and York Quality Butchers, Eric said.

Catering for the sumptuous meal was done by Frits and Birgit Schreuder, Bill Roy was MC and club members worked hard all day.

From "The YORK & DISTRICTS COMMUNITY MATTERS" - December 2009 Page 2.

Letters to the Editor

Dear Editor:

YORK CROQUET CLUB CENTENARY

Around the beginning of this year, the York Croquet Club commenced planning for a week of events celebrating the Centenary of the Club.  At the same time, we were still in the midst of the worst recession for many decades.

Nonetheless, it was decided that we would approach the local business community for sponsorship of the celebrations.  Our expectations were that it would be difficult to secure sponsorship and that the Club would need into it's somewhat limited reserves to celebrate the Centenary in a way befitting the occasion.

We had reckoned without the generosity of the York business community.  In no particular order, the sponsors included The Shire of York, Bendigo Bank, Creative Construction, the Professionals, John's Local Clelaning, Ray White, York Celebrant Serv;ices, York Cellarbrations, York IGA, York Newsagency, York Pharmacy and York Quality Butcher.

Thanks to these York businesses, it was not necessary for the Club to run down it's reserves.  The Club expresses its sincere appreciation for the support the York business community.

Sincerely, Eric Ayling Chairman. 

From "Avon Valley Gazette" - November 21,2009.  Page 51

Club stalwart Pat helps mark century

York croquet member Pat McGregor has been playing at the

club for more than a quarter of a century.

With York Croquet Club gearing up for the start of its 100th birthday celebrations next weekend, one member has been surprised to learn she has a special place in its history.

Pat McGregor has been playing at the club for more than 25 years, but it was news to her when told she was the longest standing member.

"I just found out recently.  They checked through the old cash books and there it was," she said.

Mrs McGregor said tennis wasn't an option because it's too hot in summer to chase balls around, so she joined the croquet club after encouragement from a friend.

She has been a club stalwart for 26 years, holding office bearer positions for 20 years, including president three times, treasurer twice, and she is the current secretary.

With husband Bruce, Mrs Mcgregor travels the 20km from her home to Town twice a week to play.

"The game always had a tag that it was a little old ladies sport.  The York club now has more male members than female and they discovered it was a really interesting game to play," she said.

Now enjoying golf croquet more than the association form of the game, Mrs McGregor said trying out for the State team in April this year was a highlight of her time in the sport.

"I didn't quite make it.  We went down to Cambridge and played against a few other people who were trying out, but just being asked was a plus," she said.

York Croquet Club kicks off its week-long 100th anniversary celebrations with a luncheon followed by social croquet on November 28.  On November 29, a golf croquet doubles tournament for handicaps of eight of less will be held and golf croquet players with a handicap of nine ore more are invited to play on December 1.

The following weekend association croquet open doubles will be held.

From "The York & Disctricts Community Matters" - November 2009 Page 31.

100 YEARS OF CROQUET IN YORK

BY:  Frits Schreuder, Club Reporter:

On 28 November, York Croquet Club will commence a week of events celebrating the club's centenary.  Celebrations will commence with a luncheon on Saturday 28 November with social croquet in the afternoon.  This will be followed by golf croquet tournaments on Sunday 29th and Wednesday 2nd December and completed with an association croquet tournament on the weekend of 5th and 6th December.  The public is welcome to come and watch so, if you've ever wanted to know what croquet is about, this is your opportunity. 

On Sunday 20th September, the West Australian Croquet Association held its annual Trophy Day.  York Croquet Club again figured prominently amongst the winners with Bill Roy and Eric Ayling both receiving trophies for winning croquet tournaments.

The State Golf Croquet team returned from the Interstate Cup in Melbourne in September with a very creditable third placing.  Birgit Schreuder from York Croquet Club was again a member of the team.

Beginners are welcome!  If you would like to try your hand at croquet, why not join us either on Friday night at 7.00 p.m. or on Sunday afternoon at 2.00 p.m.?

From "The York & Districts Community Matters - May 2009 Page 27.

The finals of the York Golf Croquet Challenge was played on the night of 31st of March wih the two top teams out of the December and March blocks playing off for the Trophy.  York Glazing Services, Creative Constructions, Bendigo Bank and York Quality Butchers battled it out on this chilly night.  Bendigo Bank, undefeated in the block, finished surprisingly in fourth place.  York Quality Butchers came third, York Glazing Services were runners-up and Creative Constructions won the Trophy.  Despite the cold and wind participants enjoyed the night.  We hope that next season's Challenge will be as successful.

Eric Ayling has again competed in the National Open Association Croquet Championships in Melbourne and out of a field of 46 made it to the quarter-finals and finished eighth.  Well done, Eric.  He was also selected for the National Development Squad and the State Team to play in the Eire Cup.  Victoria won the event and Western Australia finished in fifth place.

The selection process for the State Team in Golf Croquet has begun and 6 York members are vying for a place in the Team.

Night-time croquet will soon be finished and daytime play will resume.  Days and times have not been set so far but the new playing times will be posted on the internet: http://sites.google.com/site/yorkcroquetclub.

And for those who like the old fashioned way just ring Dorothy Bull on 9641 2196 or Eric Ayling on 9641 1136.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters - March 2009" Page 27

February was a busy month for the York Croquet Club preparing for the Inaugural York Invitational tournament on 21/22 February.  The Invitational Tournament was a York Croquet Club initiative and is currently the only club based invitational tournament in Western Australia.

Tournament winner Alan Sands (Como) complemented York Croquet Club on a well run tournament.  "Hopefully, this will encourage other clubs to consider running their own invitational tournaments" said Alan.  Martin Clarke (Mandurah) was runner up and Jeff Newcombe (Victoria Park) third.

On the same weekend, many other members were busy representing the Club at the annual George Parslow golf croquet ;tournament at Cambridge Club (Floreat).  Club member Pam Wanrer played with distinction coming runner-up with her partner, Ian Tarling (Forrest Park)

This month, the Club will conduct the second Croquet Challenge for the summer season.  At the completion of the second round whe winners and runners-up will play off against the winners and runners-up from the first round to decide the overall Croquet Challenge Troply winner for 2009.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters - February 2009" Page 27

Following the outstanding success of the York Croquet Challenge in November 2008,York Croquet Club will be organising a second Challenge in March.  The Challenge will commence on Tuesday 3rd March and run for 4 consecutive Tuesdays from 6.30p.m.  Winners and runners-up from both Challenges will then play off for overall Challenge Champion.

Enquiries about the Challenge can be directed to Bruce McGregor (9641 1184).  Places are limited to 8 teams of 2, so be early to regsiter your interest.

On 21/22 February, York Croquet Club will be hosting many of the top state players in the inaugural York Invitational Tournament.  Members of the public are invited to come along and watch and learn about the intriguing game of Association Croquet.

York Croquet Club has joined the electronic age with a brand new website designed by Club Secretary, Dorothy Bull.  To access the site go to(http://sites.google.com/site/yrokcroquetclub) or simply google for York Croquet Club.

From "The York & Districts Community Matters - November 2008" Page 39.

Birgit Schreuder - York, Brian Hadley - Cambridge (Captain), Pam Kerruish - Cambridge, Chris McWhirter Kay Chynoweth - Forrest Park, Kim Reynolds - Moorabinda Bunbury.

Birgit Schreuder and the rest of the WA Golf Croquet State Team are back from the Sunshine Coast!  And what an experience it has been!  Victoria's team took the Shield; NSW, Qld and WA all with three wins vied for second, third and fourth place.  On points Queensland came second, NSW was third and WA fourth, SA fifth and Tasmania sixth.    It was a tough competition; the organisation of the tournament was excellent.  From the 24 single games Birgit had to play she won 12 which was not a bad effort. 

The York greens have been verti-cut and the lawn is coming along fine and will be in good condition when the Country Double Handicap Golf Croquet tournament will be held on 1-2 November.

The next round of the York Golf Croquet Challenge will be played on Tuesday nights beginning 11 November and concluding 2 December.  This will be followed by a Family Challenge commencing 6 January 2009 and concluding on 27 January 2009.  To enter these croquet competitions contact Eric Ayling on 9642 1135.  Bear in mind that we can only accommodate 8 teams of players per competition.

Old age and treachery will overcome youth and skill!