Have you ever fancied yourself as a bit of a strategist? Got a knack for precision? Or maybe you just want to whack a ball through a hoop and call it a win? Well, now’s your chance to give it a go – Belmont Croquet Club is inviting YOU to come and play.
The gates will be open, the mallets will be ready, and all that’s missing is you. Whether you’re ten or eighty, croquet is one of those rare gems of a sport that’s truly for everyone. No need for brawn or brute force – just a sharp mind, a steady hand, and a dash of curiosity.
World Croquet Day
- When: Saturday 3 May, 10am-2pm
- Where: Belmont Croquet Club
Stay up to date with what’s happening in and around the region here.
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And if you’re thinking croquet sounds like a game from a bygone era, you’re not wrong – but that’s part of the charm! This elegant sport has been around in Geelong for over 119 years, and believe it or not, it was one of the first to feature mixed-gender competition, even taking centre stage at the 1900 Paris Olympics. Talk about trailblazing!
Here in Geelong, we’ve got our very own croquet royalty to brag about too – Stephen Forster, international player, Club Life Member, and freshly minted 2025 Croquet Australia Hall of Fame Inductee. Ranked No. 30 in the world, he’s proof that a local kid can make it big with a mallet and some serious skill. And guess what? He might just swing by on the day – how’s that for a brush with greatness?
As if all that wasn’t enough to tempt you, the club is pulling out all the stops this year thanks to a little help from the City of Greater Geelong’s Healthy and Connected Community Grant. The grant has helped fund signage and some light refreshments to keep everyone fueled and mingling.
Oh – and we’ve got a special guest popping in too! One of our local Ward Councillors will be paying us a visit – so make sure you grab a selfie in front of our shiny new banner while you’re at it.
When you arrive, you’ll be welcomed by the ever-enthusiastic Janelle, the Club Promotions Officer (aka the friendly face of Belmont Croquet). She’ll introduce you to one of the club’s passionate volunteers, who’ll take you through the basics. No stress, no pressure – just a few easy steps and boom, you’re hooping with the best of ‘em.
And here’s a cherry on top – after your first visit, you can come back five more times for free. That’s five more chances to discover your hidden croquet talents. Who knows, your name might end up alongside Geelong’s croquet greats in the not-so-distant future!
So pop it in the diary, grab a friend or two, and come on down to the courts. Who knows? You might just find your next favourite pastime.
