Group for everyone

Why not try bike riding with the CQ Trail Riding Club.

Christopher Chan

SO WHY should you join a club?

It has been said that there are just three things that humans need to be happy in life.

Exercise, mental stimulation and social interaction.

Pretty simple right?

Signing up for a club may push you beyond your comfort zone but it will help you learn and experience more, plus there's plenty of other interesting people to meet.

Gladstone has a huge array of clubs to suit whatever your interests may be: simple and social or outdoors and challenging.

Learn how to overcome your fear of public speaking by attending Port Curtis Toastmasters. It's a good skill to have and an attractive asset on your resume.

Get into the challenge of accuracy with the Gladstone District Pistol Club, or be a team player by joining a sports club like Souths Hockey Club or Tannum Sands Surf Club.

The variety of clubs is quite broad, from sports to hobbies to professional societies, so research will be needed to figure out what to spend your valuable time and money on.

While joining a club takes a bit of initiative, you may be surprised at the benefits it has for your life.

Join a club and be happy!

Mental - Learning stimulates the brain and broadens your mind.

Physical - We all know about the lovely effects of endorphins, plus there's the positives for your physical well-being.

Social - Getting to know other people increases feelings of camaraderie plus the ability to talk over a bad day reduces stress.

Type of clubs:

Sports - Have you considered archery, croquet or ten-pin bowling?

Service - These are usually voluntary organisations that can be social or charities. Think animal welfare, Rotary, P&C groups and multicultural organisations.

Hobbies - Model railroading, collecting of any sort, music and photography.

Professional - Upskilling, public advocacy, research groups and language study.

Research will be needed to figure out what to spend your valuable time on.