Brighton Croquet Club, located at 6 Bleazby Avenue in Brighton, Melbourne, is a well-established sports club that has been advancing the sport of croquet since 1911. The club features three well-maintained lawn courts that are available for use by both club members and the public.
The club offers both Association and Golf croquet, providing a variety of playing options for players of all skill levels. Association Croquet is played on Mondays during the Spring and Autumn Pennant Season, exclusively for club members with a handicap ranging from 0 to 11. Additionally, Association Croquet is available on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for all divisions. On Thursdays, affiliated visitors are warmly welcomed to join the game.
Golf Croquet is played on Wednesdays and Fridays as social play, allowing players of all handicaps to participate and enjoy the sport. On Sundays, the club hosts social play starting from 1:30 pm, and visitors are encouraged to join club members for a game of golf at 2:30 pm. It is advisable to call ahead to confirm play and avoid disappointment. Afternoon play on Sundays is suitable for both singles and groups of 2–4 players, with a green fee of $20 per person.
Larger groups can also arrange to use the club facilities for private functions.
The Brighton Croquet Club warmly welcomes both country, interstate, and international players to join them on any club day. Visitors interested in croquet are encouraged to participate, and coaching is available upon request. The club can provide coaching for both Association and Golf Croquet, with coaching sessions typically scheduled on Thursdays for Association Croquet and Wednesday afternoons for Golf Croquet. Special arrangements can be made for individuals who can only attend coaching sessions on weekends.
For those interested in learning the basics of Association Croquet, the club offers coaching classes in February, August, and October each year. These beginner classes are arranged through the Bayside U3A or directly with the club. Additionally, Lesley Cavalier has created a Coaching Video on YouTube demonstrating the basic strokes of Association Croquet.
In addition to the sporting facilities, the Brighton Croquet Club offers its clubhouse for private hire. The clubhouse can be rented for a flat rate of $50 per hour and is available throughout the week, from 3 pm on Saturdays, and between 9:30 am and 12:30 pm on Sundays. The facilities include barbecue, gazebo, and kitchen amenities, allowing event organisers to self-cater or bring in a catering firm of their choice. The club has a BYO liquor licence, permitting the serving of liquor from 12 noon to 7 pm.
A deposit is required for all bookings, and cancellations made at least 7 days in advance will not incur any penalties.
It is important to note that flat-soled shoes must be worn on the lawns to protect their condition. For those interested in participating in club tournaments, information is displayed on the club's website for both current and previous seasons.
With its rich history, well-maintained lawn courts, and welcoming atmosphere, Brighton Croquet Club is an excellent destination for croquet enthusiasts of all levels to enjoy this classic lawn sport in Melbourne.