This week on the lawns saw good numbers on the lawns. Paul Schofield, our Club Captain has called for nominations for our Pennant teams. Teams will be selected, and the first round of games will be at Coutts Crossing.

On her visit to Coutts Crossing Croquet Club last October, Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, invited the club to travel down to Sydney to play a match on the lawns of Government House. The “Governor’s Challenge” was born. The inaugural Governor’s Challenge was played on Sunday February 4, an open day where the public are invited to picnic on the beautiful grounds of Government House.

The teams from Coutts Crossing and Woolgoolga competed for the trophy, playing two doubles and two singles matches (all advantage handicap). After some fierce shots and lots of laughter the result was a draw – a win for advantage croquet. The Governor kindly took time to watch the games and chat with the players and supporters.

After the competition, the Governor presented the trophy on the Arcade of Government House. The teams were accompanied by their local State Members, Richie Williamson and Gurmesh Singh (it is believed that they both had a small wager on the outcome). We all enjoyed a light lunch with the Governor and her partner Mr Wilson, and then had the privilege of being shown around historic sections of Government House that are not open the public. An incredible experience.

The rest of the afternoon was spent leisurely on the lawns, inviting spectators to come and have a try. Many took up the offer and were given contact details for their local clubs. Our supporters also got to have a game.

This was a wonderful weekend, and we are already talking about the return match. A big thanks to all the players, our supporters, our local members and above all the Governor and her fantastic staff.

Helyn Davison