Newsletter No. 106 - Apr 2026

THE NEXT GENERAL MEETING  WILL BE HELD  AT THE CHERRYBROOK COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 10.30AM ON  WEDNESDAY 22nd APRIL 2026

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President's Report

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President’s Report - April 2026
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Welcome to a new Probus year! What with beautiful weather, Easter celebrations with family and school holidays with many members on grandparent duty, it has been a busy start. Our club is going full bore with activities for all to enjoy.

Many members enjoyed the photography trip to “Warbirds over Scone,” so enjoy the photos and song at the general meeting. What some pilots do for fun is just out of this world!

Harmony is still a work in progress so please be patient as kinks get ironed out. Michael isworking hard to make it easier for us all.

At the management committee meeting last week, it was decided not to attend an information day for clubs, as there are none in our area.

However, we did work on our 10th birthday celebrations which are going to be fantastic! Kindly reserve Wednesday, July 22, our regular meeting day, for a scheduled meeting before lunch at Springfield House in Dural. It will be an extravaganza not to be missed! A sign-up form will be at the back of the hall.
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Enjoy this beautiful weather whilst having fun, fellowship and Friendship!
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Rosemary Clarke President

Secretarial

Correspondence In 
  • ​None
​Correspondence Out
  • None
Bev Watson

Details of the Probus Member Benefit Scheme are at:
www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/members_offers_member_benefits_scheme   (Cntl click on link)

Treasurer's Report - April 2026

Michael Stinson​
Treasurer

Membership

Membership Report April 2026

Thanks to Sue Hackett and Helen Games, we are well into organizing the 10 YearAnniversary for our Club celebrating with a special party for members in July.

The current membership stands at 110 active members and 3 inactive, with a female to male ratio of 60:40.
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We will see how membership renewals go over the next month.

Please let me know if you require replacement Membership Badges, and I will start an order list.

My contact details:

Email: [email protected] or Mobile: 0402 429 589

Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings.

A reminder of our Club policies for attendance at meetings and activities.
  • Members are expected to attend a minimum of 10 functions (meetings and/or activities) per Probus year (April to March).
  • Visitors may only attend a maximum of 3 functions (meetings and/or activities) per Probus year. 

Paul Day – Membership Officer

Welfare

WELFARE REPORT April 2026

One member who had recent knee surgery in late March had a setback post-surgery. She is now having rehabilitation and making good progress. She has had a lot of texts phone calls and visits from friends in PROBUS and others and she is in good
spirits.

We have a few members who will be having procedures in the near future late April and early May. Each one will have a few days hospital stay then will progress to rehab.

If anyone hears of a member who’s not well, or is struggling with family illness or other issues please let me know and I will follow up, also anyone just wanting a good old fashioned chat please don’t hesitate to call me, text me or email directly on 0474 242 301 and [email protected]
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 Jan Hookkee – Welfare Officer
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Guest Speaker - Andrew Redfern

                              Understanding Artificial Intelligence: Trends, Tools, and Trust in the Digital Age
​
AI is more than just a buzzword; it’s shaping the future in ways we’re only beginningto understand. The talk will offer a clear and engaging overview of what AI is, itscurrent trends, and its implications for our daily lives. With practical examples and live demonstrations of tools like ChatGPT, you’ll see how AI can be a powerful resource while also taking care to be mindful of ethics, security and privacy. Ideal for anyone curious about AI in our rapidly changing world.

Andrew Redfern is an accomplished speaker, having delivered presentations to various groups over many years. With backgrounds in education, technology and theatre, Andrew endeavours to engage his audience resulting in an informative and entertaining session. He often employs unique techniques to get the audience involved and gladly answers questions from attendees.

Photos From March Meeting

Birthday  Celebrations

 Happy Birthday
 To all our members
Celebrating a birthday in April
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Janelle Melouney
Douglas Lam
Glenn Nicholls
Julianne Stanton
Ken Lewis
Garry Ellis
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Click on “Redeem Now” to enable offer : Redeem Now.
Terms & Conditions: T & C’s
Any questions or if anyone needs some help with getting this setup please contact me:
Eric Scheeren: Mobile/text: 0416218747 or email: [email protected]


Newsletter Copy Deadline

Please provide your contributions for the May 2026 Newsletter by Friday 22nd May 2026

 Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-

WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions 2026_05

Enio Dona is the newsletter editor for May

Newsletter Editor Roster as at 16 April 26​
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To go to the Activities Calendar - click HERE!

Click on activity to go straight there!
Activity Group    Leaders
Book Challenge Sue Calabrese
Book Club Bev Davison
Cards David Turner, Ray Heaton 
Cycling Gerard Siddle, David Antonjuk
Day Trips (Bus/Train/Ferry) Helen Games
Dining Out Looking For Monthly Leaders
Domestic Travel Max Henderson
Gardening Julie Stinson, Sue Small, Lorenza Powyer
Golf Terry Ridge, Jeff Swan
Mens Club Rene Beutler
Mixed Social Group Helen Beulter, Hilda Somerfield
Movies Donna Fraser
Overseas Travel Looking For Leader
Photography Rob Clarke, Bain Shenstone
Table Tennis Enio Dona
Tai Chi Helen Games
Ten Pin Bowling Douglas Matthews, Paul Day
Tennis Bob Davison
Theatre and Musicals Bruce Bartle, Robyn Bartle
Trivia Group Kim Nicholls, Hilda Somerfield
Walking Group Enio Dona, Lynne Henderson
Wine & Cheese Julie Shenstone, Susan Antonjuk
 
For an activity group to start, a member needs to step forward to lead the group
                              

Event Calendar
Note: This is snapshot of the calendar as at 19th April 2026.
​The live updated calendar is available in the Harmony app or on the website.

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Get On Board And Read’ - GOBAR! Challenge
 
GOBAR! Get on Board and Read! A new challenge is now up and running, from April 2026 to March 2027. The last of the UPM! Challenge below.

Challenge yourself to read more. Calculate the average number of books you would read in a month, multiply it by the number of months up to the end of March ‘27 … +ONE more. And you are in the Challenge! Choose your own books, post about it, and enjoy the rundowns of the other readers’ books. Search WPH&D PROBUS BOOK CHALLENGE on Facebook. If you wish to join but don’t do Facebook, send me an email and I’ll put it into the page on your behalf.

Last of the March reads: 11; total: Increasing the whopping UPM total to 169!!!!
The GOBAR! reads are after this last hurrah of UPM.
 
The five people you meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom: Eddie is a ride mechanic, who is killed in a n amusement park accident. He is sent to heaven, where he encounters five people who had a significant impact on him while he was alive. A wonderful and thoughtful book, by the author of ‘tuesdays with Morrie’.

The Mirror by Nora Roberts: Book 2 of the Lost Bride Trilogy. A continuation of Sonya MacTavish’s life after she inherits a Victorian mansion. An easy read with lots of imagination thrown into the plot.
 
The Mother-Daughter Book Club by Susan and James Patterson (with Susan DiLallo): After a three year break Elin, Grace, Mariella and Jamie get together with their daughters for a book club night that brings a great change to their lives. They reunite  in Lake Como, Italy, the scene of that fateful evening. It becomes clear that the women are all keeping secrets from each other. What happened all those years ago. Will they finally let go?
 
Nineteen minutes by Jodi Picoult: a confronting and thought provoking story about bullying and its consequences. The reader couldn’t put it down.
  
The following are also included in the UPM challenge – the reader said they were all very good:

When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén; Bo, living in a small rural village is elderly. Visitors are his care team, his son, and his memories. He is trying to mend his relationship with his son before he passes, but the son is insisting his beloved companion dog must be taken away. Bo has to find his voice.

We were Liars by E Lockhart: A group of 4 friends – the Liars – find their friendship becoming destructive. Lies upon lies push down on them.

The Land in Winter by Andrew Miller: Two couples find their lives beginning to unravel during a violent blizzard.

Happy New Year by Malin Stehn: Old friends raise their glasses in celebration as their teenage children host their own party, free of the olds. The next morning, one teenager is missing. The police get involved, and now they wonder how strong their friendship really is.

The Prospect by Fleur McDonald: a scandal sends Zara, investigative reporter, and her partner, policeman Jack to Kalgoorlie. They both struggle with this fresh start, in a town that has its own rules and inhabitants, drawn by the lure of gold and riches. Secrets are carefully guarded.

A Wilder Way by Poppy Okotcha: subtitled ‘How Gardens Grow Us’. Building a true relationship with a garden and all that live in it. “Lie the best conversations over tea in the garden”.

What We Can Know by Ian McEwan: a university scholar in the UK highlands becomes obsessed with a poem read aloud once in 2015 and never heard again. The poem becomes a myth in time, be it so short a time. Then he uncovers a clue that may lead to the poem.

GOBAR April Reads: Total: 8

Someone Else’s Child by Kylie Orr: A very confronting story but so compelling. Anna finally gets the answer she wants – her daughter has an inoperable brain tumour. There is a hope that a German treatment may cure her. The whole small town is behind the family to raise $200,000 to pay for the treatment and the travel and living arrangements during the treatment. Even Anna’s best friend mortgages her house to help out. Jeb, the husband is uncomfortable with the whole process but desperately wants his daughter to live. However, something just doesn’t feel right.  So many twists along the way, and you are screaming SCAM to those who don’t want to see it.
 
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir: a great story about a scientist who goes into space to save Earth. He meets an alien who is also out to save his world. Together, by working with one another they achieve their goals. A good read, and apparently a great movie.

The Seven Rings by Nora Roberts: Book 3 in the Lost Bride Trilogy. Not a good as the previous one and the ending was very rushed. Disappointed.

Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty: Book Club read. A woman on a Hobart to Sydney flight calmly tells each passenger how and when they will die. A few months on, the eerie predictions start to become true. A story probing fate, love, and the urge to defy destiny.

Julia Gillard – my story: Covering much of her political career her rise to power within the Labor Party, her tumultuous tenure as Prime Minister and all the backstabbing she endured along the journey. Told from her version of events but very interesting.
 
Ice Station by Matthew Reilly: this was a re-read from long ago and still didn’t disappoint. Scarecrow is a US marine in Antarctica to investigate a 100million year old metal object buried deep in ice. The race to secure this object before other countries do means a fast paced read, lots of action, killer whales, huge elephant seals and the need to take deep breaths before launching into the next chapter of action! So is this metal object really alien?

A Prey to Murder by Ann Cleeves: ‘A huge and powerful hawk dominated the scene. Its talons pierced the woman’s flesh and the beak pointed towards her eyes. George is horribly shocked at the scene. He and his wife  Molly are staying with an old friend, recently widowed. She seems a bit of a manipulator – ruthless. Molly is not sure if she is jealous or right – can she prevent another death?

The Ruin by Dervla McTiernan: A detective who is sent to a house. He finds a mother who has mysteriously died, and two neglected children. Twenty years later one of the children is found dead after witnessing a girl being murdered. Not a bad read.
 
Hope to see more of you join up for the next challenge.

Sue Calabrese
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Book Club Report - April 2026

We met on Thursday 2nd April and discussed the Burrow by Melanie Cheng.  A select group of us as it was close to Easter and many people were busy with family preparations, travel etc. 
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Our latest book is The Rose Code by Kate Quinn.  Our group will meet again on Thurs 14th May to discuss the book, which sounds very interesting.

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Leader - Bev Davison





As England prepares to fight the Nazis, three very different women answer the call to mysterious country estate Bletchley Park, where the best minds in Britain train to break German military codes.

Vivacious debutante Osla is the girl who has everything—beauty, wealth, and the dashing Prince Philip of Greece sending her roses—but she burns to prove herself as more than a society girl, and puts her fluent German to use as a translator of decoded enemy secrets.

Imperious self-made Mab, product of East-End London poverty, works the legendary code-breaking machines as she conceals old wounds and looks for a socially advantageous husband.

Both Osla and Mab are quick to see the potential in local village girl Beth, whose shyness conceals a brilliant facility with puzzles, and soon Beth spreads her wings as one of the Park’s few female cryptanalysts. But war, loss, and the impossible pressure of secrecy will tear the three apart.




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Cards Report for April 2026
Our last card night help on 27 March was still well attended even though many of our regulars were away at Scone watching the Warbirds over Scone Air Show.

We had 20 playing cards and 11 for dinner.

Our next card night is Friday 24 April [day before Anzac Day]

Dural Club
5:45 pm Dinner
7:00 pm Cards start
$5 per head to play

Hope that you will be able to attend and looking forward to seeing you all there.

Cathy (David’s PA)

Leader - David Turner
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Cycling Report for April 2026


The April 2026 cycling ride commenced from Silverwater Park and headed off to the Waterview Cafe in Bicentennial Park. Riding along the southern side of the Parramatta River the group stopped to view the progress of the new light rail line crossing over the river near Wentworth Point. Following a detour through the Newington Nature Reserve than down to Wentworth Point, the group crossed over Homebush Bay via the Bus (and foot) bridge to Rhodes before heading down to Bicentennial Park for the obligatory coffee break.
 
The return ride went through the Badu Mangroves, followed by stops at the Olympic Park Archery Centre and the new man made surf centre (not quite like the ocean surf!). Due to the favourable autumn weather and to add an extra kilometre or two to the ride, the group went through the Newington Armoury site before heading back to the start. (Approx. distance – 17.8kms).
 
Next month’s ride will commence from the Rydalmere Ferry Terminal Carpark and follow the bike paths to Meadowbank Ferry Terminal and return. (Approx. distance – 15kms).
 
Date: Wednesday 13th May 2026 (To be confirmed pending numbers). 
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Note: The ride will be held a week earlier than normal.
 
Start time: 9.30am
 
We will stop for a coffee along the way. 
 
Please bring your helmet, water and sunscreen.
 
Please let me know by Monday 11th May (pm), if you would like to join the ride.


​Leader - Gerard Siddle
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Day Trips

Photos from Morning Tea With John Singleton - Thursday 26th March

​How does an Amazon Warehouse really work?​

Leader - Helen Games
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Dining out in May will be hosted by Bev and Enio Dona
on Wednesday May 20th at 6:00pm
at:

Showground Eatery
Shop 8 / 3 Doran Drive Castle Hill 2154

In the Village precinct near the Showground Metro Station

Sign on sheet will be available at the Meeting.
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Photos from April Dining Out at The Pizza Pasta Kitchen. It was a great night.
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Thanks to Marilyn and John Savic.
Currently Dining Out is being organized on a rotational basis for one month at a time.  Please come and discuss with Stuart Mitchell about taking on this role for any month in 2026.
Leader - Looking For Monthly Leaders
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Nelson Bay
Monday 3rd to Thurs 6th Aug 2026

Our numbers are now closed (if necessary, we will introduce a stand-by list), we have modified the waterfront walk and now requesting payment for three activities.


All payments should be paid into the club’s Activities Account prior to the 15th May and identified with your

Surname & Nelson

BSB        633-000
Acc         167288844

Otherwise, generally as previously advised:
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Evening Meals 
Our current preferences are the Golf Club, situated beside and behind our accommodation and the Bowling Club, situated on the other side with both being within an easy walking distance:
Monday; Nelson Bay Golf Club, 57 Dowling St, 6.00 for 6.30pm. 
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Our Bluewater Grill restaurant offers quality food with a spectacular view! Overlooking the stunning view of the course and out to the headlands of Port Stephens. Our food is made with only quality ingredients, our signature Salt and Pepper Squid, Earth Bowls, Chicken Supreme and Lambs Fry are firm favourites. https://www.nelsonbaygolf.com/
The Golf Club

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Tuesday, Nelson Bay Bowling & Recreation Club, 63 Dowling Street, 6.00 for 6.30pm. 
Our Fin and Scales Restaurant is located on the first floor and overlooks the beautiful Nelson Bay Waterways, offering Seafood, Steak and Modern Club Classics.
https://nelsonbaybowlingclub.com.au/

The Bowling Club



Wednesday, Nelson Bay Golf Club, 57 Dowling St, 6.00 for 6.30pm, as above:

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Group activities

Tuesday, 10.00am. 2.5hr Whale Watching Cruise
Join Moonshadow TQC onboard their whale watching cruise venturing out to the ‘Humpback highway’ for the northern Whale migration during May-November for amazing viewing opportunities to see Whales.

You will never forget seeing the awesome bulk of a humpback whale, up to 18 metres long and weighing 40 tonnes! Being the most surface active of all the whales, it is possible that you will see spectacular displays – spy hops, pectoral slaps, body rolls and … the breathtaking breach.

Enjoy entertaining and informative commentary from the captain. You may also see some Australian Fur Seals, Common & Bottlenose dolphins, and view some of the outer islands.

With great viewing decks (both inside and outside), you can be sure you are getting the best view of these friendly giants. A fully licensed bar is available on board for beverages, and snacks.
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MV Osprey departs the D’Albora Nelson Bay Marina 10.00am.
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Passengers are required to be on dock ready for boarding 15 minutes prior to departure time.
For those interested in walking, we suggest you walk from The Landmark (our accommodation) to the marina (via the shops, cafes and breakfast options). This walk requires about 15min, excluding deviations.

Then following the cruise and allowing time for lunch we can walk along the waterfront to Little Beach and return along the same picturesque walkway.
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This is a relatively easy 1.0 hour walk and should be more enjoyable than the original planned route.
Wednesday, 12.00pm ‘Barramundi Lunch and Farm Tour’ Package

‘Cookabarra’ Restaurant and Function Centre, 476c Marsh Road Bobs Farm.

The centre is attached to a Barramundi and Hydroponic Vegetable Farm that also grows fresh produce on-site. Lunch is followed by a very informative guided tour of the Barramundi farm operation; tour duration is about 45 minutes to an hour.
Lunch Package Choices:
  • ‘Cookabarra’ Fish & Chips - Barramundi fillet lightly battered served with Salad
  • Oven roasted fillet with lemon butter, Lemon pepper served with Chips & Salad (can be GF)
  • Poached- Barramundi fillet poached in seafood broth with garlic, ginger, vegetables & steamed Jasmine rice (GF)
  • Chicken Schnitzel with chips and salad
Tour & Lunch Package $36.00 per person, lunch from 12.00pm (we need to preorder and will organise later) followed by the tour at 2.00pm. https://www.cookabarra.com/ Situated about 20 minutes from our accommodation.
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This will give those interested the opportunity to visit the nearby Fighter World prior to lunch.

Fighter World includes fighter aircraft aviation heritage, 10.00am (start for us) to 4.00pm, adjacent the RAAF base at Williamtown. Subject to adequate numbers we can have a guided tour which we will organise later, $16.00pp (senior).  https://fighterworld.com.au/
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Situated about 30 minutes from our accommodation. 
​Then following lunch on the return drive to Nelson Bay:
  • Gan Gan Lookout for 360-degree views, Lily Hill Road Nelson Bay
Enjoy the spectacular views of beautiful Port Stephens and beyond from Gan Gan Hill Lookout just off the main road which travels down into Nelson Bay. Accessible by car, this prominent viewpoint offers expansive views of Nelson Bay & beyond.
At your leisure activities
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As with previous trips, apart from evening meals and a couple of group activities we also provide some options you can do at your leisure. For example:
Monday: https://www.portstephens.nsw.gov.au/council/news/2021/explore-mambo-wetlands-like-never-before
Tuesday:
  • Port Stephens Community Arts Centre, Cultural Place, Off Shoal Bay Road, Nelson Bay https://pscac.org.au/
  • A group walk along the waterfront, refer above
Wednesday: Thursday:
  • Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters, 9.00am to 5.00pm, A2 Jessie Road, Anna Bay. Various options and prices, starting at $30pp (seniors). https://sharkencounters.com.au/
        These two options are almost neighbours and just off the road to Lemon Tree Passage
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  • Play a round of golf on the adjoining Nelson Bay Golf Course, maybe stay an extra night
https://www.nelsonbaygolf.com/

Apart from the websites, further details of the above are also available at the Tourist Information Office, adjacent the marina.

Participants (as at 11/03/2026)
Accommodation

​Whilst all listed participants have made their reservations, we have retained this detail as it includes some useful information including the T&Cs for our bookings.

The Landmark, Nelson Bay, 61A Dowling St, Nelson Bay 2315, adjoins both the bowling and golf clubs. A short walk to Nelson Bay shops and a fifteen-minute walk to d'Albora Marina Nelson Bay and Fly Point Marine Reserve.

Accommodation includes 118 air-conditioned rooms featuring kitchenettes with refrigerators, stovetops, microwaves and coffee/tea makers. Flat-screen televisions and complimentary wireless internet access.

Hotel facilities include an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a sauna, on site complementary car parking and lift access to all floors.

Room Options & Tariffs
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We have negotiated a very attractive group booking discount with the following options:
​Deluxe apartments are renovated with modern bathrooms and kitchens. The deluxe two-bedroom apartments offer a full kitchen. Refer to their website for more details and photos. https://www.landmarknelsonbay.com.au/

Please Note 
  • Accommodation rates quoted are in Australian dollars.
  • Rates are non-commissionable. 
  • Rates quoted are for un-serviced apartments.
  • Additional linen such as towels are available at reception, a small fee applies.
  • Check in time is 2pm, Check out time is 10am.
  • All rooms are non-smoking.
  • Breakfast is available from the privately owned onsite restaurant. Pricing and menus are available direct.
 
Deposit, Alteration & Cancellation Policy/Payment Details 
  • A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure each apartment at time of booking.
  • The account balance is payable on arrival. Payment on arrival can be made via cash or credit
card, cheque payment on arrival will be refused. 
  • A credit card guarantee is required at time of booking if the deposit is being paid via direct deposit. If one is unable to provide a credit card guarantee, then a bank transfer of the first nights’ accommodation is required.
  • Cancellations made outside of 5 days of arrival will incur a $50.00 administration fee.
  • Cancellations made inside of 5 days of arrival will incur the first night’s accommodation.
  • Pre-payment can be made via credit card or bank transfer.
  • The Landmark Resort Banking Details
    • Account Name: Landmark Nelson Bay Management 
BSB: 084 572
ACCOUNT: 857314156
  • Please note that no-shows will be charged the full accommodation fee for the period of the stay.
  • No refunds or transfers of monies will be permitted should a group member choose to depart earlier than the scheduled departure date.
  • For room security purposes a credit card guarantee is required on check-in for all rooms.
  • A cleaning fee applies to all room moves.
 
Reservations, Deposits & Payments (for accommodation )

Please make your own reservations directly for your accommodation, including payments as detailed above.

Once you have reserved your room please advise me via email:
  • Your surname/s
  • Number of people
  • Room type/s
After we finalise our program options, we will advise the applicable costs and request payment into the clubs’ activity account.

Except these specified payments, it is best if all other costs, e.g. accommodation (as above), meals and other activities are paid for directly by the participants.
 
Any questions, please give me a call.

​Max Henderson
Activity Leader
0404 020 985

Queensland Great Central Outback Trail
Sun 1st to Wed 11th Aug 2027

It’s still too early to expect a price, particularly given the current events around the Middle East.

As per the itinerary below this is a fantastic opportunity to experience the central Queensland outback with Trade Travel.

Whilst they have secured our trip, some of their suppliers are still to determine their rates for 2027. Therefore, until they can provide us with a ‘Tour Cost’ they are not seeking a deposit and we suggest their Itinerary is viewed as a DRAFT.

Trade Travel’s minimum trip number is twenty and our accommodation at Longreach (three nights in sixteen luxury glamping tents), will restrict us to thirty-two, less with potential single supplements.
 
Whilst we don’t have a costing, a 2025 similar Trade Travel trip (whilst the same number of days it excluded Longreach and a flight back to Brisbane) to Southwest Queensland was $5,000. Therefore, expect to pay more.

If you would like your name added to the expressions of interest list:
  • save the date and
  • send me an email
Once we have a costed itinerary, we will forward to those on the list and Trade Travel will prioritise attendees based on receipt of their $200pp deposit.

Any questions, please give me a call.

Max Henderson
​Activity Leader
​0404 020 985
To download the PDF of the flyer, click HERE
Leader - Max Henderson
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Garden Group – April 2026

During April, the garden group had an enjoyable morning visiting Flower Power. Many thanks to Lorenza Powyer and Sue Small for organising this garden group activity.
 
Our next Garden Group event will be visiting:
 
The Bromeliad Autumn Show  -   Federation Pavilion in the Castle Hill Showground

The Bromeliad Society of Australia is holding a Bromeliad Autumn show at the Federation Pavilion in Castle Hill Showground. Exquisite and rare Bromeliads from local and interstate growers and collectors will be on display and for sale to the public. A Bromeliad competition is being held and you will also have the opportunity to learn from experts.  There will be 20 plant sale tables which will be continually restocked with plants, books and pots.

Date:    Saturday 2 May 2026

Time:   10.30am  Meet outside the Federation Pavillion, (Castle Hill Showground)

Parking  Free

Entrance Cost    Free Admission

Please bring a box if you plan to purchase any plants.

Brunch will be at the Beanmeister, 1/10 Salisbury Road, Castle Hill.  Brunch will be at your own expense.

If you are interested in attending please respond by selecting the relevant option in the harmony email eg "I will be attending the event and the meal" option or send me a text by Thursday 30 April 2026. 
Leader - Julie Stinson
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PictureTerry & Jeff
Golf Report - April 2026  News from The Bunker

HELLO Probus, Members
 
The Probus Golfing day for April 2026 was held at the North Ryde Golf Course, the weather conditions fantastic for golf with a welcome cloud cover.
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We had 14 members attend which was a record number for 2026.
 
Lunch was at the Ranch Hotel where the days play was discussed and the problems of the world were solved.
 
In May Barry Wailes has arranged a trip away to Bonville for the majority of the golfing group.
 
We play social golf catering for all levels, please let us know if you would like to join us. 
Yours in Fun, Fellowship & Friendship

From Team Golf
Terry Ridge and Jeff Swan
WPH&D Probus Inc - Golf Coordinators
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Men's Club - April 2026

Next Get-together

Wednesday 13th of May at Midday

The Verandah
Beecroft Bowling Club
Copeland Road
​Beecroft


​Leader - Rene Beutler
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April Coffee Morning

Note change of Day due to ANZAC Day Public Holiday on Monday 27th

Join us for a coffee, a great chat and lots of fun. Everyone Welcome!

We are meeting on the last Tuesday of April. ( Normally last Monday of the month)

PLACE : Castle Hill RSL, Bistro Area

The next morning tea will be:
Tuesday 28th April 2026 at 10:29 am
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All members are welcome.  Looking forward to seeing you there!
Leader- Helen Beutler
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​Movie Group - April 2026

​​We meet on the first Tuesday of the month in the foyer area of Event Cinemas on the Piazza side of Castle Towers usually around 9.30am, depending on session times.

As the newsletter comes out earlier than the session times are advertised, we email members who have advised their interest in being on our Movie Emailing List with the relevant movies for the following first Tuesday of the month Movie Day.  Also, we usually meet at Cosmo Café after the movie for lunch.  When you receive the Movie Email, could you please advise by return email whether or not you will be joining us for lunch after your movie.

Please note that there will now be a Movie Sign-In Sheet placed on the table at the back of the hall at our monthly Probus meetings for members to sign their Intention to Participate at the next movie day.  If you would like to be added to the Movie Contact List please add your name and contact details at the bottom of this Intention to Participate sheet and we will arrange to have our Movie Emailing List updated accordingly. 

Similarly, if your name is on our list and you would like it removed, could you please draw a line through your name and it will be removed accordingly.
Leaders – Donna Fraser
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Probus Photography April 2026 Report

As usual we started our February meeting with a short music video. This month it was our Scone music video that was created with AI. We finished off with John Farnham singing The Voice. This is not photography but adds some fun to the night.

Besides the opening and closing music videos we look at the open and set subject images and have a discussion on a particular aspect of photography. This month we added an additional category for the Scone weekend.

Sixteen of the photography group travelled to Scone to go to the Warbirds over Scone airshow. This airshow featured many of the old planes form the 1st and 2nd World Wars. We even had the red baron flying.
Images of the Month.

1. Set Subject: Reflections

We had some great examples. The image that was chosen as the best was taken by Elizabeth Wojtczak of this well captured image in the QVB building. The image was taken by leaning up against the glass window of one of the shops. The reflection is seamless.

Congratulations Elizabeth Wojtczak
2. Open Category

Congratulations to Cathy on this image taken at the beach. What captivates the observer is the humour of the image. I think it should be called “Friends?”
3.  Warbirds over Scone Category

Some amazing images were projected at the meeting and the one that was voted to be the best was taken by Rosemary of Paul Bennet’s plane spiralling downwards.
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The image from a photography perspective is the symmetry of the downwards spiral and having the plane coming out of the spiral.

Activities

Everyone is welcome to join our photography group, most of our photographers only use I-phones or equivalent. We do have a very small number with the more expensive equipment, but they do not dominate our meetings.

Our photography group organises outings and trips away that are open to the photography group only. We have had some comments that others in the club were not aware of these events and outings. To become aware of these events come to our meetings and it does not matter what kind of photographer you may be, our nights are highly social.

Facebook Site

If you are a member of our Probus Club you can access our photography site with a request. People who are not members cannot access the site. The link to our Facebook site is:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/254025278937219/?ref=group_header
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To view the site with all the images “ctrl+left click the mouse button” on the link above.

May Set Subject

Our set subject is portraits. Try to engage the model if you have one and remember to ask them to curve their body. Portraits of animals are acceptable along with images of people who are not posing.

Next Meeting

The next meeting is to be rescheduled as we have a lot of our group heading off to Bonville for the golf. An email will be sent to you when we have a new date.
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Rob Clarke
Activity Coordinator

Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone​
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Table Tennis April 2026

Table tennis activity has started, 12 members enjoyed the first table tennis activity held this month.  Everyone enjoyed this light exercise and having fun learning new skills in a noncompetitive session.

This activity is to be held on the fourth Thursday of the month (day after the General Meeting) 10am for 90 to 120 minutes (dependent on numbers) at the Dural Squash Court, 895 Old Northern Rd Dural, for only $5.

All members are welcome.  There are both male & female players, suiting all level of play.

If you are interested and not already done so, please contact Enio Dona
Leader - Enio Dona
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                   All are welcome
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April 2026 Report

​School Holidays interrupted bowling in April, however, it will resume on Friday, 15 May.

If you are not on my list of players & would like to have a crack send me a text on 0418497211.

Leader - Doug Matthews
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Tennis Group report April 2026

Tennis did resume for a short period but due to travel and injuries (not tennis related) it was suspended for Easter and the school holidays.  We resumed on Monday 20th April and hopefully all will be back on track now.
 
We play on Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill (weather permitting).  

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​Leader - Bob Davison​
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​Live Theatre April 2026


Cluedo -The Murder Mystery:
Our next theatre party is to Cluedo a play at Theatre Royal at 7:00pm on Tuesday 5 May 2026 has now been finalised with 25 attendees, again thank-you for your support. Tickets will be distributed at this month’s meeting or on the night. An information email detailing travel arrangements will follow shortly.


The Lion King:

Following strong interest last month in the return production of the Lion King at the Capitol Theatre from April 2026, we will be arranging a theatre party around July 2026 including return coach travel. Stay tuned for further details.

Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. Disney’s THE LION KING, making its triumphant return to Sydney! More than 120 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular.

Whispering Jack -The John Farnham Musical:

We have secured a group booking of 35 Tickets for December 15, 2026, to, Whispering Jack a major new Australian production (now virtually sold out) presented by Sydney Theatre Company premiering at the Roslyn Packer Theatre for a limited 4-week season. Tickets are expected to be $150 each including return coach travel.

Starring Michael Paynter as John Farnham, this musical celebrates the story behind the 40th anniversary of the highest-selling Australian album of all time, covering his comeback from 1980 to 1986. An invitation to join us via Harmony will follow shortly with the communication date to be advised in advance in both the newsletter and our regular monthly meeting.
Leaders - Bruce & Robyn Bartle
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Trivia March 2026

We had a fun night as usual , 22 people attended and we made up 3 tables. All thinking caps were on!

Our next Trivia night is: 21/05/26
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Hope to see you there
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Kim & Hilda

Editor's Note: Big thank you to Hilda for supplying chocolates and Liquorice Allsorts.
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Walking April 2026

We have completed two walks since the last newsletter.

The Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park was a great walk, with both the views from West Head and the weather excellent on the day.  We will also visit two beaches.  See photos.

The Hornsby Crusher Plant Walk was a short walk into the Blue Gum forest behind the Hornsby Aquatic centre.  Again, it was a great day with excellent weather.  It was good to see additional members joining in this activity.  See photos.

The next Probus walking activity is the Cook to Cove Greenway walk will be held on Tuesday 12th May 2026.  The GreenWay is a 6km route through Sydney’s inner west between the Cooks River and Iron Cove. It features include 8 dedicated artworks, several short tunnels, cultural and historical sites, picnic areas, bike stands, cafes, bushcare sites and a range of parks, playgrounds and sporting facilities that sit alongside the path.

As can be seen in the photos below, this is a flat walk, along wide concrete, sealed paths, with plenty of toilets on route and plenty of coffee stops.

The plan is to catch the metro to Sydendam, then the train to Dulwich Hill, do the 6km walk with a stop for coffee/lunch, walk to Leichardt North Light Rail, get the light rail to Central, followed by the metro back to Castle Hill.  For those that do not wish to walk the full distance, there are several light rail stops on route to exit prematurely. Bring your own water, a hat, Opal Card and camera.
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This is an easy walk, designed for those who can walk ‘miles if only it is flat’.
Details of the walk,
 When:  Tues May 12th 2026
 Meet:  Castle Hill Metro, Tap on Tap off Level.  Second meeting point Sydenham Station for those who wish                                       to bus it into the city then catch the metro to Sydendam.
 Time:  10:00am
  Walk:  See description above
  Parking: Castle Towers.  Please note that this activity will take more than 4 hours return.
  Coffee:  Plenty on route and at the stations.
  Toilets:  At start and end of walk and five toilets on route.
  Lunch:  To be determined, on route at one of the cafes.

Contact me if you have any questions.  Watch out you may even enjoy it.  The first person that tells me the number of artworks that we will see on the next walk (webmasters and partners excluded) before May 12, will get a free coffee.  Contact me if you want to be added to the mailing list.
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The normal walk for June will be held on Tuesday 9th.  Please leave this date free for a walk which is still to be determined
Leaders - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson

Photos From Last Walk 

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Wine & Cheese April 2026
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Another successful Wine & Cheese thanks to our hosts, Sue and Santo Calabrese. We had 34 attendees on a slightly smoky but balmy Autumn evening.

​The next Wine & Cheese will be on Friday 8th May at the home of Marilyn and John Savic.
 



Leaders  Julie Shenstone & Susan Antonjuk
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PLEASE NOTE
The Club Newsletter is for the private and confidential use of Club members and is not to be used for any other purpose.  Approval for any form of advertising or promotion not directly related to club activities or general club information must be granted by the club committee.
Newsletter Editor for this month: Eric Scheeren