After hosting their own local competition at St James’ Primary School at the weekend, the members will now set their sights on a number of tournaments throughout the state – with an eye on the nationals in November.

“We’re in the middle of a busy period, that’s for sure,” club president and teacher Mandy Morris said.

“Eleven ladies - Angela Montgomery, Ashleigh Farrell, Ashleigh Garland, Emma London, Gwen Thring, Margaret Derkson, Michelle O’Hara, Shireen Fulcher, Suzie Troon, Vanessa Richards and myself - are about to head to Coffs Harbour for their zone competition.

“There, they’ll compete against women – representing organisations from Armidale and the Far North Coast – in team and individual disciplines.

“We’ve already attended interclub events at the Camden Haven and Singleton; and everyone did well.

“Then, in mid-October, the junior girls (from five to 14) will head to Tamworth and face nine clubs in the New England zone.”

Their reward for success?

A chance to qualify for the prestigious Nationals in two months’ time, according to Morris.

“Everyone’s worked really hard,” she said.

“They’re focused and dedicated.

“So, I’m hoping we get a lot of finalists.

“Over the past few years, we’ve had between one and five representatives at the Nationals.

“That’s an amazing result in a club of 60 members (hailing from Muswellbrook, Denman and Merriwa).

“But, you never know what will happen on the day.

“We’ve just got to prepare ourselves as best we can.”

No matter the outcome, in the near future, Morris is proud of all her girls – and the journey they’ve embarked upon. 

“At the end of the day, it’s all about fitness and self-benefit,” she explained.

“In fact, the physie motto is ‘empowering girls for life’. 

“And, if they do their best [at zone], that’s great.

“Anything more is definitely a bonus.”