I am calling on Ballina Shire Council to urgently intervene in the recent decision by Cherry Street Sports Club to terminate access to the croquet lawns used by Ballina Croquet Club by 14th April. 

This decision has resulted in a long-standing community club being given only a short period of notice to vacate its home of many decades. The Ballina Croquet Club has served the community for 90 years and has a membership of around 70 people, many of whom are older women who rely on the club for social connection, physical activity, and wellbeing.

Members have raised concerns that the proposed “unified” model of croquet does not preserve their independence, identity, or equitable access to facilities. This situation raises broader concerns about how community facilities on public land are governed and who they are ultimately for.

With the support of my fellow Councillors, Cr Chate and Cr Crollick, we've asked the Mayor to call an Extraordinary Meeting on Council where we will be calling on Cherry Street Sports Club to reconsider their decision and find a solution where both Clubs have long term access to these public lawns. Under the Local Government Act, the Mayor must call this meeting within 14 days of notice being given.

By signing this petition, you are showing your support for this motion before Council and for a fair outcome that protects community access to public land.