Saturday, May 03, 2008
Good afternoon.
It gives me great pleasure to be here, as patron of the Waimaire Croquet Club, for your trophy presentation.
This is a very special occasion and I want to thank you for inviting me to be part of it.
I can’t believe how fast summer went by. It feels only like yesterday I was here opening your new season.
Nevertheless, we were treated to a warm summer with plenty of sunshine making for perfect conditions to play croquet - and for that we can be grateful.
The Waimarie Croquet Club had another successful season and today we recognise some of the standout performers of the club.
The dates inscribed on the trophies reflect the rich history and tradition of the club which has been part of the community since 1922.
Recreation and sporting clubs play an important role in strengthening the social fabric and well-being of our society.
Among other things, they provide a place for people with common interests and goals to meet, to compete, to have fun, and to stay healthy.
At a time when many are struggling to attract members and maintain facilities, it’s great to see this club in such strong and good heart.
This can surely be put down to the strength of your volunteers, who are the foundation of any grass roots club.
Hutt City is blessed with thousands of volunteers working for clubs and organisations across a variety of fields.
They make our community a better and more caring place to live, work and raise a family.
This club is well served by volunteers, and I want to thank each of you for your contribution to the success of the club.
I also want to congratulate all of the trophy winners for their performances over the season.
Once again, thank you for your invitation to be part of today’s trophy presentation and I wish everyone an enjoyable afternoon.
Thank you very much.