LAST Saturday Mayor Cr Rhonda Hoban OAM, and Paul Hayes, Director, Nambucca Heads RSL were on hand to cut the ribbon for the opening of the new footbridge at E J Biffin Playing Fields.

News Of The Area joined Nambucca Valley Croquet Club for the opening of their new footbridge allowing better access to their playing courts.

The Club moved to the E J Biffin Playing Fields in 2017 converting the old tennis court area into three grass courts, one full size, and two half size courts.

“It’s taken four years to get where we are today, a dream in the making,” said Club President, Kerrie Crooks.

Immense effort has been expended by Club members in conjunction with Nambucca Valley Council working to level grounds and establish the grass courts.

Graham Harris, Club Vice President said, “Council has been very helpful in getting the courts established, especially Tim Woodward whose advice has been generous and helpful.”

The large culvert between the clubhouse and the courts made getting to the courts quite difficult for the older croquet members, and for manoeuvring equipment.

The Committee decided to look at getting a footbridge built to span the culvert.

“The bridge has made getting to the courts much easier for our older members, and reduces the risk of damage to machinery we use for upkeep of the grounds,” said Club member Gary Biden.

Club Vice President Graham Harris stated the project was costed at $13,000, and funded with a Community Builders Grant sourced with help from Council’s Grants and Contributions Officer, Teresa Boorer, and funds from Nambucca Heads RSL.

“Community Builder’s was $9000, and Nambucca Heads RSL contributed $4,000,” Graham said.

The Croquet Club is for young and old alike providing a social outlet, exercise, and mental wellbeing for its members.

Kerri Crooks said, “Our youngest players are 11 years, and the eldest 91 years.

“Croquet is a tactical game, keeping the body and mind working, it’s good for those who can’t play more physically demanding sports.”

The Nambucca Croquet Club has approximately 30 members who play on Tuesday and Saturday mornings, morning tea is provided, fees are $5.00 for members, and $7.00 for visitors.

On other days of the week the courts are utilised by local schools, and various NGOs who play croquet for sport.

For further information or wishing to join you can contact the following members Kerri (President) 0409 887 984, Judi (Secretary) 0422 101 669, Gary (member) 0436 288 821.

 

By Karen GRIBBIN