If you've ever wanted to have an Alice in Wonderland themed party, the McIlwraith Croquet Club would be the place to do it. Yes, that's right- Brisbane actually does have a Croquet Club- I was surprised too. It's more believable when you find out that it's in a leafy pocket of Auchenflower, one of Brisbane's older, more quaint suburbs.
The club house is a white and blue old queenslander that stands off in the distance where you are welcome to observe games from a height. Out in the field there is also a latticed shade area, something like a hut, that has a flowering vine running wild all over it. It's simply charming.
I know about the McIlwraith Croquet Club more as a function centre because I used to work as a caterer. I've seen some beautiful affairs happen there. Marquees get erected, fairylights get strung over everything, people take off their heels and go have a game of barefooted croquet. Again, it's just lovely.
If you are a serious croquet player, you'll be glad to know that the playing days are Wednesday and Saturday from 9:30am-12:00pm, and Thursday 3:00pm- 6:00pm. They are also open by appointment. If you're bored and wondering what to do some idyll afternoon, give Sandy a call (see website) and arrange a time to try out your mallet grip. read more