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Croquet at Government House on Australia Day

Published Mon 26 Jan 2026

CNSW were invited to provide croquet for visitors to Government House Open Day on Monday 26/01/2026.

CNSW Board member Fidye Westgarth, assisted by Joanne Nimmons, orchestrated the operation which included liasing with Government House staff, locating equipment and transport, calling for volunteers, and ensuring the day went to plan. 

There were 40 volunteers in attendance throughout the day to make visitors welcome, provide a short lesson on using mallets and balls, and encourage onlookers to have a game of golf croquet. The volunteers came from 13 different clubs; members from Sydney, but also as far as Newcastle, Wollongong, Nowra and Ulladulla. Thank you for your wonderful spirit and enthusiasm.
Special thanks goes to those who helped with carting equipment, setting up the lawns and packing up at the end of the day - and guiding people who were watching on the other sides of the lawns so they could come and have a game. And those who supervised the children's hoops - the kids had a great time.

We recorded nearly 300 visitors on the day - they loved the game and had lots of fun. Large numbers were very interested to find where their nearest club might be so they could play more.
 
It was a wonderful day, and an especially good day for croquet! 

 

The CNSW Patron is Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley, AC, KC.
Link to the NSW Government House website for details of the days activities available.

Australia Day at the House

PHOTOS - by Gareth D and Jaki G.

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