SSG Christmas Party 2025: Awards, Aloha, and Barefoot Fun

Our 2025 SSG Christmas Party at Bramble Bay Bowls Club was the perfect sunny send-off to the year, with around 40 members, partners, and kids gathering in the Bay View function room. Dressed in Hawaiian shirts, we kicked off with the internal awards, presented by Coach Paul Skelton, Club Manager Brian Shapland, and President Jodie Brighton.

Ninja of the Year went to two legends: Greg McMurray, the club's lifeblood with his genuine, inclusive spirit that ensures everyone feels welcome and supported, and Cynthia Cliff, celebrated for her long-running triathlon involvement and creating beautiful moments in multisports. Certificates of Appreciation honored Wiremu "Woosa" Hollis for his welcoming initiatives and newbie training events, and Jo Hodge for encouraging swimmers to push further (watch out for that Vortex pull to Scott's Point!).

Special mentions included Jennifer McMillan for overcoming adversity at Hervey Bay 100, Chris Thomas, Leanne Hopkins, Caeleigh Hancock, Dylan McMurray, and Karel. A highlight was Dylan finally receiving his Moreton Bay Swim medal from February.

We then hit the green for barefoot bowls under the hot sun, pulling shade for a cool spot. Cold drinks flowed, stories were shared, and fruit platters (a last-minute swap) fueled the fun— especially for kids ditching lollies to avoid sugar crashes (shoutout to Kyzon's memorable tantrum avoidance!). The little ones stole the show, inventing scoring rules with hands and feet while running wild.

The atmosphere was chill and joyful, full of chatter and smiles. As Jodie summed it up: "This party was the perfect way to wrap up 2025. Bringing members together in a relaxed, social setting that wasn’t about training. We shared a few drinks, enjoyed the warm afternoon sunshine, watched the kids run around, and rolled a few bowls down the green. It was a truly relaxing afternoon, full of laughter, connection, and smiles all around"

Thanks to everyone for making it epic—here's to more in 2026!