Page 5 - ABF Newsletter February 2026

and better supported pathway from national competition through to international represen- tation. One key element already confirmed is the shift toward partnership-based Playoff Qualify- ing Points and pairs-based qualification in the 2026 Playoffs, with further structural and sup- port initiatives to follow in stages.
Importantly, this program is not just about im- proving results at the elite end – it is also about bringing the whole bridge community with us. International success should be something every Australian player feels connected to and proud of. The vision we are working toward is clear: by 2030 the Australian bridge community will have a coherent system to foster high-level bridge, in- cluding all aspects from national events, training, team selection, preparation and participation at international events – and we want to see more Australian teams achieving strong results at major international events more often.
Growing the popularity of bridge in Australia
At the end of last year we launched the Give the Gift of Bridge this Christmas campaign, en- couraging players to think about bridge les- sons, supervised sessions, beginner courses and bridge-related items as practical and meaning- ful gifts. The goal was simple: make it easier for every member of our community to play a small but active role in introducing new people to the game. National campaigns help with visibility, but real growth happens locally – through per- sonal invitations, club initiatives and one-to-one encouragement.
Bridge doesn’t grow by accident. It grows be- cause players talk about it, invite friends, bring along family members, and support their clubs in running welcoming beginner and refresher programs. If you enjoy the game – and you’re reading this, so you almost certainly do – please
treat this as a standing invitation to be an am- bassador for bridge. Mention it, recommend it, invite someone, support a learner. If each of us brings just one new person into the game, the impact across the country is enormous.
Remembering Bondi and standing with our community
The horrific events at Bondi late last year touched many communities across Australia – includ- ing our own. We lost one of our bridge family, Marika Pogany, and others in our community were directly or indirectly affected. Her loss has been deeply felt, and we again extend our sin- cere condolences to her family, friends and play- ing partners.
During the Summer Festival of Bridge we paused play on the National Day of Mourning to ac- knowledge the victims and reflect together. It was a simple but important moment of respect and solidarity. Bridge is more than a game – it is a community – and in difficult times communi- ty matters. The ABF stands alongside the Jewish community and all those impacted by these events. We reject hatred and violence, and we reaffirm the values of respect, inclusion and hu- manity that underpin our game and our gather- ings around the table.
Closing thoughts
Australian bridge is strongest when its commu- nity is informed, engaged and generous with its time and spirit. Whether you are competing, vol- unteering, mentoring, learning, or simply turning up each week to play, you are part of what keeps the game healthy and moving forward. Thank you for the role you play – and for continuing to support, promote and strengthen bridge across Australia. I also welcome feedback, questions and ideas from players at any level – please feel free to contact me using the email address shown in the banner at the top of this page.
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Australian Bridge Federation Ltd. Newsletter: February 2026
Page: 5