Trevor Peters shoots watched by Joy Sutherland and Ann Starritt.
The Shepparton and Mooroopna Croquet Clubs came together to celebrate World Croquet Day in a garland occasion for lovers of the pastime.
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Some 36 players from the two neighbouring clubs played either golf croquet or association croquet on the Shepparton Lawn Courts down at Winston Street in the city.
World Croquet Day was established by the World Croquet Federation as an annual event to celebrate croquet and encourage participation worldwide.
Although nominally set for May 2 this year – it took a bit longer to make it Down Under to Greater Shepparton – with this is the first year the clubs joined together in celebrating the event.
Under clear skies on a cool morning, players enjoyed the company of other enthusiasts for two or three matches, before heading to lunch at the other Shepparton Club, in Wyndham Street.
Reflecting on an enjoyable day of community outreach and gamesmanship, Shepparton Croquet Club’s Peter Watson spoke of his delight at the success of the event.
“In essence, a lot of clubs picked a day in May to celebrate (World Croquet Day) to promote croquet and have people come and try it,” he said.
“Shepparton and Mooroopna are very close in the Goulburn Valley Croquet Association so the two clubs decided to come together to have some games - there was no recording of jump shots or who was winning!
“It was more just to enjoy each other’s hospitality and play and then the players went for lunch afterwards so people really enjoyed the game.
“There’s less people playing association croquet, more play golf croquet and that’s being experienced worldwide, it’s not as difficult as association croquet and it’s a bit more sociable as you can play in doubles or singles.”
Watson also encouraged those interested in trying croquet to come down to their twilight sessions under the lights at Winston Street and upcoming come and try sessions too.
“We have a magnificent facility down at Winston Street so people can play there under the lights which is a nice experience!”
“A lot of people don’t know we’re there but people who play the game really enjoy it when they do and we’re very welcoming to new players as they are down at Mooroopna too.
“We have involvement with some school groups such as Goulburn Valley Grammar, Shepparton Christian College and Berry Street all coming to play to give them an introduction to croquet and have a bit of fun!
“With Shepparton, we have a come and try day in October which aligns with seniors month.”
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