Players from all over NSW will converge on the picturesque Lismore Croquet Club today as Far North Coast NSW hosts the NSW State Golf Croquet Division 2 Doubles & Singles Championships for the fifth consecutive year.

For Lismore, this will be the first time since the 2022 big flood severely damaged the historic Lismore Croquet Clubhouse on Molesworth Street, when flood water went over the roof.

Lismore City Council and builder Paul Cook helped rebuild the heritage-listed clubhouse.

"We've got a beautiful new kitchen, a beautiful new clubhouse in every way you can think of," Club Captain Deborah Matten told the Lismore App. "It took us quite a while to get back on our feet.

Ballina Cherry Street and Byron Bay hosted the State Championships in 2022, 2023, and 2024 due to Lismore recovering and rebuilding its historic clubhouse.

"Honestly, this is a fantastic feeling. And for it all to come together for Lismore is incredible," Deborah said on the eve of competition in Lismore. The championship action began in Ballina and Byron on Wednesday and Thursday.

"We've got 15 games today starting at 8am. There'll be six players, and then they swap over. Games will run all day, finishing around 3pm or 4pm."

As Lismore is the host club, members will be putting the new kitchen to use, catering breakfast, morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea, along with coffee and tea.

While the State Championship presentations will be held in Ballina on Sunday afternoon, Deborah said Lismore is hosting the plate finals on Sunday, when they will have their own presentations.

"These are the players who don't earn themselves a position in the State finals. They don't come anywhere. So, what I have done is get them little trophies and I've put one and two on them, and we'll give them a bottle of wine, just to make them feel better that they've received something for playing, for all their effort."

Tournament Manager David Scott is thrilled to welcome players to the area.

"We are delighted to once again showcase the beauty of Northern NSW and the passion for golf croquet within our community. These championships not only provide a platform for top-level competition but also highlight the camaraderie and sportsmanship that make this sport so special."

The success of the championships relies heavily on the support of numerous volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Roles include lawn preparation, catering, refereeing, promotion, and fundraising.

"The dedication of our volunteers is invaluable,". "Their passion and commitment are what make these events possible."

You can head along to the Lismore Croquet Club at 163 Molesworth Street, Lismore and watch the championship games from 8am today, Saturday and Sunday.