Croquet club celebrates opening of flood-resilient clubhouse

TWEED Heads Croquet Club has celebrated the opening of its new clubhouse with the $720,000 rebuild part of the governments jointly funded Community Assets program.

The clubhouse was demolished last year after extensive damage from the floods in 2022.

The club has a long history dating back to 1949, with the new clubhouse honouring its original footprint with a modern design to protect against future flood events.

Upgrades include, raised floor level above the last flood mark, rendered block walls, stainless steel joinery, glass aluminium doors and windows with waterproof linings in wet areas.

It is managed by Tweed Shire Council and operated by the croquet club volunteers.

“It is so satisfying being able to play the challenging and skilful game of croquet in our renovated club,” president Janet Ahrens said.

“The new clubhouse is a great example of fit-for-purpose construction and allows all members to enjoy their games and socialisation in a comfortable and spacious setting.

“ We look forward to welcoming new members here, too.”

Additional external upgrades include accessible ramps, a dedicated parking bay, and a connecting road to Recreation Street.

The project is a milestone in council’s broader flood resilience strategy, which includes upgrades to community buildings, sports facilities, parks, playgrounds, public toilets, and car parks across the region.

“This new clubhouse is a great example of what recovery looks like on the ground. It is about rebuilding community spaces in a way that keeps people safe, preserves what locals value and strengthens resilience for the future,” MP Janelle Saffin said.

“The Tweed Heads Croquet Club has been part of community life for decades, and I am pleased to see it return stronger and more accessible.

“This upgrade gives members confidence that they can keep doing what they love, even as we continue to face more frequent and intense weather events.”