THE first question Dr Phil Houlton asked when he joined the Coffs Harbour Bridge Club (CHBC) 30 years ago was “why do you play on public holidays?”.
The answer touched his heart and stuck in his mind: “Because there are so many people on their own”.
As the Coffs Harbour Bridge Club’s clubhouse on City Hill Drive celebrates its 30th anniversary of bringing together players, friends, and the wider community through the game of bridge, the community of players remains committed to a culture of welcome.
For three decades the clubhouse has been a vibrant hub for both seasoned players and newcomers alike, fostering friendships, sharpening minds, and providing countless hours of enjoyment.
Having played bridge at the club almost every week since its doors opened, and served two terms as Club President, Dr Houlton said joining a club is one way of dealing with your ‘aloneness’.
“You make friends playing bridge and then some of those friendships extend outside of the club.
“Very importantly, as we age, one way to ward off Alzheimer’s Disease is to learn something intellectual.”
Dr Houlton likens learning and then playing bridge as heavy lifting for the brain and gym for the mind.
“It’s very good for the memory,” he said.
The club has a healthy collegiality, balanced with cheerful combativeness, he said.
“It’s one of the few games where one’s opponents tell you how they won and how you should have played to avoid losing,” Dr Houlton said.
“It’s a good way to learn.”
What began in the early 1990s as a small gathering of bridge enthusiasts, hosted by George Vermont as a private group, has grown into a thriving club, founded in 1996 by Mr Vermont.
Over the years, the club has hosted numerous tournaments, social events, and educational workshops, helping players improve their skills at every level.
An important occasion for the club is hosting its annual congress in August, held at the Opal Cove resort.
“This event has put our club on the bridge map, attracting players from across Australia as well as New Zealand,” Dr Houlton said.
In philanthropic work, the club donates to local not-for-profits every year to support their work.
“We are proud of our journey and the community we’ve built,” Club President Barry Butler told NOTA.
“Bridge is more than just a card game here – it’s about connection, fun, and learning, and we welcome anyone interested in joining us.”
As part of the 30th anniversary celebrations, the club invites local residents to visit, watch a game, or try their hand at bridge in one of the upcoming beginners’ sessions.
Interested players can find more information on session times and membership on the club’s website.
By Andrea FERRARI
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