Despite the concern that accommodation would be a difficulty because of the “Beef Week” promotion that was being held at the same time as the Gateball Challenge, seven teams travelled to Rockhampton for the two days of the Team competition and one extra day for the Doubles. The setting of Rockhampton Mallet Sports Club is a magnificent one surrounded by huge trees and situated in a quiet area as part of the famous Botanical Gardens as shown in the photo below.

Everything was well organised with four courts and a practice court painted on the ground. The clubhouse and covered area gave good shelter to everyone when there were a few showers on Sunday and Monday. Delicious food was served and plentiful supplies of tea and coffee fuelled everyone. There were new players to Gateball Competition so it was very good to welcome the team from Capricorn Coast led by Greg Featherstone as well as the team from Caloundra with three new players led by Glenda Windust. A composite team called the ‘Beach Beauties’ came from Eildon, Deception Bay and Bribie Island. The other teams were Ipswich Snoopy’s, Redcliffe, Rockhampton, and Southport Red.

There were very close games and it was not until the final round was completed that the placings were decided. Southport Red and Ipswich Snoopy’s each won 5 games but first place went to Ipswich because of a better tally of net points. Third place was secured by Rockhampton. It is very good to note the improvement in this team’s performance and a home ground advantage came to the fore.

The Ipswich Snoopy team is presented with First Prize by Don Close.

The President of Croquet Queensland, Mr Don Close, was able to attend the presentation. He was able to meet so many of the players and the visitors to Rockhampton.

Southport Red receives second prize from Don Close.

The Gateball Doubles were played in two block with 5 pairs in each block. In the semi- finals Peter and Bruce from Block A played second place-getters in B Block- Lynne and Margaret. Geoff and Paul, winners of Block B, played Jim and Barbara who were placed second in Block A. Lynne and Margaret had a tough tussle to defeat Peter and Bruce so they could meet Jim and Barbara in the Final. This Final was a close game but Jim and Barbara managed to secure first place in the Doubles Challenge.

Jim and Barbara Northcott receive the First Prize from Don Close with Lynne and Margaret placed second.

Once again Rockhampton Mallet Sports Club demonstrated how good they are at organising Gateball Tournaments. Congratulations to all of the club members for their hard work and to Lynne Farry for her tireless efforts as a player as well as the Manager of the Challenge. This club will be hosting the QLD Gateball Teams and Doubles 17-20th August and we look forward to seeing many teams competing here at that time in Rockhampton where the weather will be so good for all of those who can visit from the southern states.

Greg Featherstone achieving an ‘agari’ for his Capricorn Coast team.