Thanks Judy

Your offer is much appreciated.

Marilyn will contact you on the email you used for your ClubHub account.

She will run you through what the task is and then have a discussion how you'd like to do it. CAQ is keen to have keen people develop their own ideas on how they can do the best for croquet.

The only outcome we need is to keep track of our current trophies. Any additional trophy related ideas you have Judy will be warmly welcomed!

task: We have lots happening that involves technology so looking for enthusiastic people to contribute.

Outcome: A wide variety of people helping implement, use and maintain our wide use of technology from administration to marketing, video & photos and member communication.

Time commitment:

All the fun stuff gets shared around and you learn new skills and help croquet in Queensland be better.
estimated commitment: Whatever time you would like to use to help.

Task: Keep track of who has the trophy and make sure it is returned prior to the running of that event next time. Currently trophies waiting for presentation are in storage at Milton. Clubs have other former CAQ trophies in their clubhouses.

Outcome: Megan, the events coordinator has way too any things to do in her events role so someone doing this task will give Megan more time to do some of her many other croquet volunteer roles.

Estimated commitment: 2 hours per month. Maybe more if it is decided to ask and record details and locations of historical trophies.

Task: Record and keep updated volunteer qualifications for coaching, refereeing, tournament management and Blue Card.

Outcome: Currently Penny, CAQ Secretary - spends way too much time helping croquet. We want to lighten her load so Penny gets time to play the game she loves.

Estimated commitment: One hour a week.

Task: Add, change or remove member details from the membership database. Once a year reconcile club & CAQ membership lists.

Outcome: Our treasurer, Helen, and our secretary, will do less work because someone is helping them with this task.

Estimated commitment: 1-2 hours per week processing membership information plus an annual membership census.

Reply below to nominate to help or ask clarifying questions.

We are a completely volunteer organisation.
Croquet in Queensland has operated and built its storied history thanks to the contributions of countless people who cared about the game and got joy in making it better for the future.

It is now our time to shape the game's future.

Match your interests with tasks and enjoy helping. If you have particular knowledge, or enthusiasm for a hobby combine it with croquet.

In this helpers needed section you will see tasks listed. These are bite-sized ways to contribute without doing too much.

Nominate when you see a task you'd enjoy helping with. Croquet thanks you in advance.

(STICKY - Placeholder) Examples: Great Club Facilities & Maintenance (Videos)

G'day Facility Fans!

Seeing how other croquet clubs manage their grounds, maintain their clubhouse, look after crucial equipment, or successfully complete facility upgrades can provide great practical insights.

This space is reserved for sharing real-world examples of excellent facility and equipment management from clubs around Queensland.

We plan to add content here, including:

• Videos: Showcasing clubs with beautifully maintained courts, efficient clubhouse operations, clever equipment storage or maintenance routines, or completed facility improvement projects.
• Tips & Tricks: Sharing practical ideas for groundskeeping, maintenance schedules, or planning for asset replacement (like that essential mower!).
• Case Studies: Written examples detailing successful facility projects or innovative maintenance solutions.

Learning from each other helps us all take better care of the physical assets that make playing croquet possible!

Stay tuned – we'll update this topic with examples as they become available!

(Content Coming Soon!)

(STICKY) Planning Facility & Major Equipment Upgrades

G'day Planning Committee & Members,

From time to time, our club will need to undertake major improvements or replace significant assets to keep facilities up-to-date and meet member needs. This could include projects like:

• Resurfacing or rebuilding croquet courts.
• Extending or renovating the clubhouse.
• Building new shelters or sheds.
• Replacing major, high-cost equipment (like mowers or rollers when they reach end-of-life).

These large projects require careful planning well in advance!

Key Steps in Planning Major Upgrades:

1. Identify the Need: Why is this upgrade or replacement necessary? How will it benefit the club and its members? (Link back to your Strategic Plan if possible).
2. Define the Scope: What exactly needs to be done? What are the desired outcomes?
3. Research Options & Costs: Get quotes for construction work or replacement equipment. Understand the full costs involved.
4. Develop a Budget: How much will it cost? Where will the funds come from (club savings, fundraising, grants)?
5. Create a Timeline: When does this need to happen? What are the key milestones?
6. Seek Approvals: Does the project need approval from the committee, members, council, or other bodies?

Leveraging Project Planning Resources:

Planning major upgrades or asset replacements follows the same principles as any significant club project. Please use the excellent resources already available in our Club Hub and directly from the QLD Government:

• Review the Club Hub Guide: Start with our internal guide: Guide: Planning Specific Club Projects
• Use the QLD Gov Workbook & Guides: For detailed help, use these specific QLD Gov resources:
  • Project Planning Workbook (DOCX): Download the Workbook Here (Invaluable tool for structuring your project plan)
  • Facility Planning Guide (PDF): Download the Guide Here (Specific steps for planning new infrastructure)
• Explore Funding: If funding is needed, check out the topics in the Grants and Other Revenue category.

Thorough planning is essential when investing significant club funds into facilities or major equipment like a new mower, ensuring you get the best outcome and value for the club.

Looking after your clubhouse and the essential equipment that keeps the club running is just as important as maintaining the courts.

Clubhouse Care:

• Cleanliness: Regular cleaning schedules for the kitchen, toilets, and general areas ensure a welcoming environment. Consider rosters or working bees.
• Maintenance & Repairs: Address minor repairs (leaky taps, blown lightbulbs) promptly. Have a system for reporting maintenance issues. Plan for larger maintenance items (painting, plumbing work).
• Utilities & Services: Manage electricity, water, waste collection, and any other services efficiently.
• Security: Ensure the clubhouse is properly secured when not in use.

Managing Key Equipment:

Your club relies on various pieces of equipment, and managing them well saves money and hassle.

• Major Equipment (e.g., Mowers, Rollers):
  • Routine Maintenance: Follow manufacturer recommendations for servicing (oil changes, filter cleaning, blade sharpening for mowers). Keep a simple logbook of maintenance performed.
  • Safe Operation: Ensure only trained/authorised members operate major machinery. Have clear operating procedures and safety guidelines (e.g., fuel handling).
  • Storage: Store equipment securely and protected from the weather.
  • Fault Reporting: Have a clear process for users to report any faults or concerns with equipment immediately.
• Playing Equipment (e.g., Club Mallets, Balls, Hoops):
  • Regularly inspect for damage or wear.
  • Store properly to prevent damage or loss.
  • Have a system for repairs or replacement.
• Other Equipment (Kitchen appliances, furniture etc.):
  • Keep clean and in good working order.
  • Report any malfunctions.

Proactive management of the clubhouse and equipment prevents bigger problems down the line and ensures these valuable assets serve the club well.

The quality of our croquet courts is paramount for enjoyable play! Keeping the courts and surrounding grounds in good nick requires consistent effort and attention to detail.

Key Areas for Court & Grounds Care:

• Mowing:
  • Regular mowing is essential for a good playing surface. Frequency will depend on growth rates and desired court speed.
  • Using the club's mower correctly and safely is vital. Ensure operators are familiar with it.
  • Consider varying mowing patterns to avoid wear.
• Line Marking: Clear, accurate boundary and penalty spot lines are crucial. Keep lines refreshed as needed using appropriate markers.
• Hoop Setting: Hoops need to be set firmly, straight, and to the correct dimensions/positions according to the rules of the game being played. Regular checks and adjustments are often necessary.
• Surface Care: Address any uneven patches, bare spots, or drainage issues promptly to maintain playability and safety. Top dressing or other treatments might be needed periodically.
• General Tidiness: Keep the court surrounds clear of debris, leaves, and obstacles. Ensure pathways are safe and accessible.
• Watering: Depending on your climate and court type, a regular watering schedule might be necessary.
• Pest & Weed Control: Manage weeds or pests that could damage the playing surface.

Tips for Success:

• Create a Schedule/Checklist: A simple schedule or checklist for regular tasks (mowing, line marking, hoop checks) helps ensure things don't get missed.
• Volunteer Coordination: Organise working bees or rosters for grounds maintenance tasks. Many hands make light work!
• Report Issues: Encourage members to report any issues they notice with the courts or grounds promptly so they can be addressed.

Well-maintained courts are a source of pride and provide the best possible experience for playing croquet!

Our club's physical spaces – the clubhouse, the courts, the surrounding grounds, and even our essential equipment – are central to the enjoyment of croquet and the smooth running of the club. Properly maintaining these facilities isn't just about appearances; it's crucial for several reasons:

• Player Enjoyment & Safety: Well-maintained courts provide the best possible playing surface while also minimising risks like trips or falls. A clean and functional clubhouse enhances the social experience. Safe equipment prevents accidents.
• Protecting Club Assets: Our facilities and major equipment (like mowers and rollers) are significant investments. Regular maintenance protects their value and extends their lifespan, saving the club money in the long run.
• Attracting & Retaining Members: A well-presented club with good facilities is more attractive to potential new members and helps keep current members happy and proud of their club. First impressions count!
• Positive Club Image: Tidy grounds and well-kept facilities project a positive image of the club and the sport of croquet to the wider community and potential sponsors.
• Meeting Obligations: In some cases (e.g., lease agreements, safety regulations), there may be requirements to maintain facilities to a certain standard.

Taking pride in our facilities and investing time and effort in their upkeep benefits everyone involved with the club.

Looking for inspiration for your next club function, tournament, or fundraiser? Seeing how other croquet clubs run successful events can spark great ideas!

This space is reserved for sharing real-world examples of well-managed and engaging events from clubs across Queensland.

We plan to add content here, including:

• Videos: Showcasing highlights from successful social events, smoothly run tournaments (of various formats), creative fundraising initiatives, or effective 'come & try' days.
• Case Studies/Tips: Sharing practical tips, checklists, or brief stories about what made specific club events work well.

Learning from each other's event successes helps us all create more memorable and beneficial experiences for our members and the community.

Stay tuned – we'll update this topic with examples as they become available!

(Content Coming Soon!)

The planning is done, the promotion is out – now it's time for the event itself, and the important wrap-up afterwards.

Running Smoothly On the Day:

• Brief Your Team: Make sure all volunteers know their roles, responsibilities, and the event schedule. Answer any last-minute questions.
• Clear Signage: Help attendees know where to go, what's happening, and where facilities are.
• Welcome Desk / Point Person: Have a clear point of contact for attendees with questions or issues.
• Stick to Schedule (Flexibly): Try to keep to the planned timings, but be prepared to adapt if minor delays occur.
• Troubleshooting: Have someone designated to handle any unexpected issues that arise.
• Capture the Moment: Take photos or short videos to use for future promotion or club newsletters.
• Enjoy It! If the organisers are having fun (even while busy), it often creates a better atmosphere for everyone.

After the Event - Don't Forget the Wrap-Up!

• Thank Yous: Acknowledge and thank everyone involved – volunteers, sponsors, attendees, prize donors. Do this promptly!
• Financial Reconciliation: Finalise all income and expenses. Report back to the committee on the financial outcome (especially for fundraisers).
• Gather Feedback: Ask attendees and volunteers for their thoughts. What went well? What could be improved next time? A simple survey or informal chats can work well.
• Review & Debrief: Hold a short debrief meeting with the organising team/committee. Discuss the feedback, review what worked and what didn't, and capture key learnings for future events.
• Share Success: Report back to members on the event's success (e.g., funds raised, enjoyment levels, croquet highlights) via newsletter or social media.

Taking the time to review helps make your next croquet club event even better!

You've planned a fantastic club event – now you need to make sure people know about it! Effective promotion is key to getting good attendance, whether it's a social night, a croquet competition, or a fundraiser.

Tips for Spreading the Word:

• Know Your Audience & Message: Who are you trying to reach (members, public, specific groups)? What's the key information they need (What, When, Where, Why, Cost, How to RSVP/Register)? Keep your message clear and appealing.
• Use Club Channels:
  • Noticeboard: A prominent poster at the club is essential.
  • Newsletter/Email: Announce the event clearly with all details and booking info. Send reminders closer to the date.
  • Website: Create an event page or calendar entry with full details.
  • Word of Mouth: Encourage committee members and keen members to talk about the event.
• Social Media (e.g., Facebook):
  • Create an event listing.
  • Post engaging updates leading up to the event (photos, teasers, reminders).
  • Share in relevant local community groups (if appropriate for the event type, e.g., 'Come & Try' days).
  • Consider a small, targeted paid boost for key public events.
• Local Promotion (for public events):
  • Posters/Flyers: Place them in local libraries, community centres, relevant shops.
  • Local Media: Send a brief event notice to the community section of local newspapers or radio.
• Clear Call to Action: Make it obvious what you want people to do (e.g., "RSVP by [Date]", "Register online here:", "Buy tickets from the President").
• Timing: Start promoting early enough to give people notice, but not so early they forget! Send reminders closer to the date.

Choose the promotion methods that best suit your specific event and target audience. Good promotion builds excitement and helps ensure a great turnout! (See the Member Growth & Marketing category for more general marketing tips).

A successful event doesn't just happen – it takes good planning! Whether it's a small social gathering or a major croquet tournament, following a few key steps can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Essential Event Planning Steps:

1. Define the Purpose & Goals:

   • Why are you holding this event? (e.g., social fun, competition, fundraising, member recruitment).
   • What do you want to achieve? (e.g., raise $X, attract Y new members, provide a great playing experience).
   • Who is the target audience? (e.g., current members, potential members, specific skill levels).

2. Set the Budget:

   • Estimate all potential costs (catering, prizes, equipment, promotion, etc).
   • Estimate all potential income (entry fees, raffle tickets, sponsorship, canteen sales).
   • Does the budget balance? Do you need to adjust costs or income targets? (See the Financial Management category for budgeting tips).

3. Choose Date, Time & Venue:

   • Check the club calendar (and maybe local community calendars) to avoid clashes.
   • Ensure the date/time suits the target audience.
   • Confirm your club facilities (courts, clubhouse) are available and suitable.

4. Plan the Logistics:

   • Format/Schedule: What will happen during the event? (e.g., tournament draw, running sheet for a social night).
   • Equipment: What specific gear is needed (croquet equipment, tables, chairs, AV, decorations)?
   • Catering: Food and drinks needed? Who will provide/prepare them? (Remember food safety!).
   • Permits/Permissions: Are any council permits, liquor licenses, or any other permissions required?

5. Organise Your Team (Volunteers!):

   • What tasks need doing before, during, and after the event?
   • Who will be responsible for each task? Create an event sub-committee or assign clear roles. (See the Volunteers & Helpers category).

6. Create a Timeline: Work backwards from the event date. Set deadlines for key tasks (e.g., booking courts, sending invites, ordering supplies, finalising draw).

7. Consider Risks: What could go wrong? (e.g., bad weather, low attendance, safety issues). Have basic backup plans or mitigation strategies. (See the Safety & Risk Management category).

Taking time for planning upfront usually leads to a much smoother and more successful event! Remember, for very large projects, refer back to the specific Project Planning guides.

Events are often the highlights of the club calendar! Whether it's a friendly social BBQ, a competitive croquet tournament, or a dedicated fundraiser, running great events brings huge benefits to our clubs.

Why put the effort into organising events?

• Boosts Social Connection: Events like dinners, trivia nights, or casual 'come & try' days are fantastic for building friendships and strengthening the social fabric of the club. Happy members stick around!
• Provides Playing Opportunities: Specific events like club championships, handicap tournaments, or even fun, non-standard croquet formats give members different ways to enjoy the game and test their skills.
• Raises Vital Funds: Dedicated fundraising events (raffles, special competition days, dinners) can bring in much-needed income for specific projects or operational costs.
• Attracts New Members: Well-run 'come & try' days or community open days are prime opportunities to introduce people to croquet and showcase what your club offers.
• Raises Club Profile: Successful events generate buzz, create positive stories to share (online and offline), and enhance the club's reputation in the local community.
• Engages Volunteers: Events provide specific, short-term opportunities for members to volunteer and contribute in different ways.

Putting thought into planning and running events – big or small – pays off by creating a more vibrant, connected, and successful croquet club.

Looking for inspiration on how to grow your membership or promote your croquet club more effectively? Seeing what has worked well for other clubs can spark great ideas!

This space is reserved for sharing real-world examples of successful member growth and marketing initiatives from croquet clubs.

We plan to add content here, including:

• Videos: Showcasing clubs running successful 'come & try' days, using social media cleverly, implementing great member retention strategies, or finding unique ways to promote themselves in the community.
• Case Studies: Written examples detailing specific campaigns or strategies that led to positive results in membership or club profile.
• Shared Tips: Practical marketing or engagement tips gathered from clubs across Queensland.

Learning from successful initiatives can help us all get better at sharing the wonderful game of croquet!

Stay tuned – we'll update this topic with examples as they become available!

(Content Coming Soon!)

Attracting new members is important, but looking after the members you already have is absolutely vital for a healthy croquet club! Happy, engaged members are more likely to stay, volunteer, and spread positive word-of-mouth.

Strategies for Member Engagement & Retention:

• Good Communication: Keep members informed about what's happening at the club – news, events, results, committee decisions. Use multiple channels (email, newsletter, noticeboard, website, social media).
• Variety of Play: Offer different types of croquet activities to cater to various interests and skill levels (e.g., social play, competitive fixtures, handicap events, fun formats).
• Social Connection: Foster the social side! Organise regular social events, encourage mingling after play, and create a welcoming atmosphere where friendships can form.
• Involve Members: Ask for input and feedback on club matters. Create opportunities for members to volunteer or contribute in ways that match their skills and interests (even small tasks help people feel involved).
• Recognise Contributions: Acknowledge members' achievements (on the court and off), milestones (birthdays, anniversaries), and volunteer efforts.
• Seek Feedback: Regularly ask members what they enjoy about the club and what could be improved. Use simple surveys or informal chats. Act on feedback where possible and let members know you've listened.
• Address Concerns: Have a clear process for members to raise concerns or issues, and address them fairly and promptly.
• Value for Money: Ensure members feel they are receiving good value for their membership fees through well-maintained facilities, organised play, and a positive club environment.

Making members feel valued, connected, and heard is key to building a strong and loyal club community.

Letting people know your croquet club exists and showcasing what makes it great is key to attracting members and building community support. You don't need a huge budget – simple, consistent marketing can make a big difference.

Basic Promotion Tips:

• Know Your Message: What makes your club special? Is it the friendly atmosphere, the competitive play, the beautiful grounds, the social side? Focus your promotion on these key selling points.
• Your Website/Online Presence:
  • Keep it up-to-date with contact details, joining information, event schedules, and photos.
  • Make sure it's easy to navigate, especially for potential new members.
• Social Media (e.g., Facebook):
  • Share regular updates: photos from game days, event announcements, member achievements, 'come & try' day promotions.
  • Engage with comments and messages promptly.
  • Consider targeted local advertising for specific events (can be low cost).
• Visual Appeal: Good photos and maybe short videos showing people enjoying croquet are powerful! Capture the fun and social aspects, not just the technical play.
• Local Media: Send brief press releases or event notices to local newspapers or community radio stations – they often welcome community news.
• Flyers & Posters: Simple, well-designed flyers can be effective on local community noticeboards (libraries, community centres, shops).
  • Tool: Check out design tools like Canva for creating professional-looking flyers easily.
• Word of Mouth: Encourage happy members to talk about the club!

Consistency is key – regular small efforts are often better than one big splash. Promote the fun and friendship of croquet!