Newsletter No. 40 - March 2020
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Newsletter No. 40 - March 2020
President's Report
Tony Coote President
Hi fellow members
Since my last report, the impact of Corona Virus is being felt around the globe. We are very fortunate to live in Australia with our great healthcare system. But as seniors we are the most vulnerable age group in our society. I urge you to take the sensible precautions outlined by our government, and to self-isolate if you are unwell. The path through the next few months is uncertain and we may be forced to curtail our club activities and meetings in the interests of our member’s well-being. We will cross those bridges as we come to them and will keep all our members well informed.
This is my last report as President. It has been an honour to serve you as President for the last 2 years. Our club has been extremely active and energetic and we have all had our lives enriched by belonging. We have made strong friendships and enjoyed great times together. My thanks to all the committee members and their deputies for their dedication and hard work.
They have made my job easy, by going above and beyond to ensure that all aspects of club operation run smoothly. Thanks also to all the activity leaders and their deputies for providing varied and interesting activities month after month. We all look forward to each month and a long list of varied activities.
I’m looking forward to “going to the back bench” and just being a participant without the pressure of leadership. I wish all the incoming committee every success as they continue to guide our club in new directions.
Its all about Fun and Fellowship! Come along as often as you can and enjoy your Probus Club!
Tony
Hi fellow members
Since my last report, the impact of Corona Virus is being felt around the globe. We are very fortunate to live in Australia with our great healthcare system. But as seniors we are the most vulnerable age group in our society. I urge you to take the sensible precautions outlined by our government, and to self-isolate if you are unwell. The path through the next few months is uncertain and we may be forced to curtail our club activities and meetings in the interests of our member’s well-being. We will cross those bridges as we come to them and will keep all our members well informed.
This is my last report as President. It has been an honour to serve you as President for the last 2 years. Our club has been extremely active and energetic and we have all had our lives enriched by belonging. We have made strong friendships and enjoyed great times together. My thanks to all the committee members and their deputies for their dedication and hard work.
They have made my job easy, by going above and beyond to ensure that all aspects of club operation run smoothly. Thanks also to all the activity leaders and their deputies for providing varied and interesting activities month after month. We all look forward to each month and a long list of varied activities.
I’m looking forward to “going to the back bench” and just being a participant without the pressure of leadership. I wish all the incoming committee every success as they continue to guide our club in new directions.
Its all about Fun and Fellowship! Come along as often as you can and enjoy your Probus Club!
Tony
Guidelines During Corona Virus Pandemic
Fellow Members, here are some guidelines for us all to follow over the next few months. We are in the age group that is most severely affected by Coronavirus infection. Please do all you can to minimise the risk to yourself and fellow club members.
Club Meetings and Activities-
Avoid large gatherings and shopping centres, public transport, cinemas etc. Consider activities and events that minimise direct contact with the general public for example walks, golf, BBQ’s in a park, etc
Follow the government guidelines-
In order to protect our members-
Please notify the welfare and risk officers if you are diagnosed with Corona Virus.
Tony Coote
President
Club Meetings and Activities-
- For the next few months, general meetings are cancelled.
- If you have a sore throat, runny nose, cough symptoms, please self-isolate and do not attend other meetings or activities.
- To minimise risk of cross-infection, please bring your own-
- Hand sanitiser
- Tissues
- Pen for filling out attendance and activity forms
- If you need to cough or sneeze, please do so into a tissue or your elbow.
- Do not shake hands or kiss fellow members.
- Where possible, maintain a “social” distance.
Avoid large gatherings and shopping centres, public transport, cinemas etc. Consider activities and events that minimise direct contact with the general public for example walks, golf, BBQ’s in a park, etc
Follow the government guidelines-
- Hand-wash frequently and for long enough to be effective.
- Or use an alcohol based hand sanitiser often.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Wipe down contact points such as door handles, table tops etc with an alcohol based wipe.
- Cough into your elbow or a tissue.
- Use your own pen.
In order to protect our members-
- Activity leaders will make the call to hold or cancel their activities.
- Members are responsible to self-isolate if needed to protect others, and to decide on their own attendance based on their age and general health.
Please notify the welfare and risk officers if you are diagnosed with Corona Virus.
Tony Coote
President
Secretarial
Correspondence In
Any Promotional material has been passed on to the Events coordinator.
Received by email some proxy voting forms from members for the AGM
Received emails from members agreeing to having the AGM electronically.
Received emails from members voting for the AGM
Correspondence Out
Sent out email to members to agree to electronic voting.
Sent out email to members with instructions to vote electronically.
Cathy Turner
Details of the Probus Member Benefit Scheme are at: www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/members_offers_member_benefits_scheme
(click on link)
Any Promotional material has been passed on to the Events coordinator.
Received by email some proxy voting forms from members for the AGM
Received emails from members agreeing to having the AGM electronically.
Received emails from members voting for the AGM
Correspondence Out
Sent out email to members to agree to electronic voting.
Sent out email to members with instructions to vote electronically.
Cathy Turner
Details of the Probus Member Benefit Scheme are at: www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/members_offers_member_benefits_scheme
(click on link)
Treasurer
TREASURER’S REPORT For the Month of February 2020
GENERAL ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1st February 2020 $1732.16
Interest .08
Membership fees 110.00
Venue hire (1171.59) Venue hire, morning tea, PO Box
Closing cash balance 29th February 2020 $670.65
ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1st February 2020 $6048.32
Interest 0.86
Deposits 13316.00 Dangar Is, Mid-West, Les Misérables, Gosford, Bright
Payments (2036.00) Mid-West, Gosford
Closing cash balance 29th February 2020 $17329.18
The main activity for the month was deposits for Mid-West tour, and the Bright trip. Payments were for deposits for accommodation and bus for the Mid-West trip, and to close the Gosford cruise.
The activities that remain open at the end of the month are:
Activity Balance
Mid-West tour 11522.00
Bright trip 5200.00
Total $16722.00
TERM DEPOSIT
$5,000 is invested in a Term Deposit with Bendigo Bank at 1.85%. Estimated interest to date is $59.81.
INTEREST
For the year to date, we have received $2.40 in interest from both the transaction accounts.
SURPLUS
The activities surplus stands at $605.00.
Ian Roberts
Treasurer
1st March 2020
GENERAL ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1st February 2020 $1732.16
Interest .08
Membership fees 110.00
Venue hire (1171.59) Venue hire, morning tea, PO Box
Closing cash balance 29th February 2020 $670.65
ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1st February 2020 $6048.32
Interest 0.86
Deposits 13316.00 Dangar Is, Mid-West, Les Misérables, Gosford, Bright
Payments (2036.00) Mid-West, Gosford
Closing cash balance 29th February 2020 $17329.18
The main activity for the month was deposits for Mid-West tour, and the Bright trip. Payments were for deposits for accommodation and bus for the Mid-West trip, and to close the Gosford cruise.
The activities that remain open at the end of the month are:
Activity Balance
Mid-West tour 11522.00
Bright trip 5200.00
Total $16722.00
TERM DEPOSIT
$5,000 is invested in a Term Deposit with Bendigo Bank at 1.85%. Estimated interest to date is $59.81.
INTEREST
For the year to date, we have received $2.40 in interest from both the transaction accounts.
SURPLUS
The activities surplus stands at $605.00.
Ian Roberts
Treasurer
1st March 2020
Membership
Just a reminder of our Club policies for attendance at meetings and activities.
As you are aware our Probus year ends 31 March 2020, and we are planning for the new Probus year.
If you are not intending to renew your membership could you please let me know ASAP?
Lynne Henderson & Kim Nichols – Membership Officers
- 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.
As you are aware our Probus year ends 31 March 2020, and we are planning for the new Probus year.
If you are not intending to renew your membership could you please let me know ASAP?
Lynne Henderson & Kim Nichols – Membership Officers
No Guest Speaker At March Meeting (cancelled)
Sue Hackett & Toni Smith
Welfare
Being a member of our Probus Club fills a gap for us retirees. It gives us a sense of purpose and community. Please take advantage of your club and its activities. It’s a great opportunity to socialise, and getting out and about will make you feel good.
It is important, as members of Probus that we care for the welfare of one another. Anyone with information about an illness, bereavement, physical disability or hardship affecting a member please advise me, in order for me to make contact and offer companionship and support. I’m available any time for a chat or a coffee.
Please be assured that all information provided will remain completely confidential.
Terry Ridge is assisting with welfare. He is another point of contact and will be available if I am absent from the club.
Marilyn Savic – Welfare Officer
It is important, as members of Probus that we care for the welfare of one another. Anyone with information about an illness, bereavement, physical disability or hardship affecting a member please advise me, in order for me to make contact and offer companionship and support. I’m available any time for a chat or a coffee.
Please be assured that all information provided will remain completely confidential.
Terry Ridge is assisting with welfare. He is another point of contact and will be available if I am absent from the club.
Marilyn Savic – Welfare Officer
Lunch After the General Meeting Wednesday 25th March At 1 PM (cancelled)
Bev
Important Notice – Attendance at Activities
As a matter of courtesy, please consider the Activity Organiser, and sign up and pay well in advance. It is very difficult for the organiser and the venue if most people have booked and paid well in advance, and a few people decide to turn up at the last minute. Restaurants and venues have often allocated tables, and squeezing extra people in is difficult. It also makes the job of accounting for the payments very confusing.
If you cannot attend a function that you have booked, please notify the Activity Organiser as early as possible so that the venue can be notified. If you have already paid, your payment will be refunded if the venue agrees to accept the reduction in bookings. This is covered in detail in our Activity Refund Policy.
Because of several recent events, we are forced to change our policy. For pre-paid events, if your money is not in the Activities Account by the organiser’s due date, you will not be able to join the group at the venue. You are of course free to make your own booking, but those who have paid in advance will have preference for seating, and if no space is available at the booked table you may have to sit separately.
Our Activity Organisers work hard to provide you with great activities. Please help make their job as easy as possible.
If you cannot attend a function that you have booked, please notify the Activity Organiser as early as possible so that the venue can be notified. If you have already paid, your payment will be refunded if the venue agrees to accept the reduction in bookings. This is covered in detail in our Activity Refund Policy.
Because of several recent events, we are forced to change our policy. For pre-paid events, if your money is not in the Activities Account by the organiser’s due date, you will not be able to join the group at the venue. You are of course free to make your own booking, but those who have paid in advance will have preference for seating, and if no space is available at the booked table you may have to sit separately.
Our Activity Organisers work hard to provide you with great activities. Please help make their job as easy as possible.
Photos From The Meeting On Wednesday 26th February (Peter Stanton)
ANZAC DAY BBQ - Saturday 25th April - Cancelled
The Anzac Day BBQ to be held on Sat 25th April at Cumberland State Forest, Bellamy Picnic Area, has been cancelled.
Bev
Bev
Bright trip - 19 to 29 April 2021
NOTE: A $200 deposit per person is required by the end of March 2020. If cancelling the deposit can be refunded by the end of September 2020.
In order to give members an idea of the trip a draft itinerary has been prepared. Please note that this is likely to change as we consider all the options and what members would like to do.
In order to give members an idea of the trip a draft itinerary has been prepared. Please note that this is likely to change as we consider all the options and what members would like to do.
7 Day Itinerary can drive straight to Bright. Note that is a 1 or 2-day option to return to Sydney.
A committee of four members will convene to plan the trip. I would like to thank Max Henderson, Andrew Little and Ken Smith volunteering to assist. The committee has yet to meet.
There is so much to do in Bright, the private gardens will be open, there is a golf course, wineries, great pubs, bike riding, day trips to Mt Buller, Falls Creek, the Bogong High Plains (includes the huts) and Mount Hotham etc. Kathy and Ken Lewis have offered to have a wine and cheese night at their home in Bright.
A booking has been confirmed at the Bright High Country Motor Inn, which is about 1km to the centre of Bright, the motel is on the river next to the river walk.
Cost
It is to early to give a definitive cost. However, $2000 - $2,500 per couple should cover everything, those on a bus are likely to pay more based on the numbers wanting to go on a bus.
Rob Clarke
A committee of four members will convene to plan the trip. I would like to thank Max Henderson, Andrew Little and Ken Smith volunteering to assist. The committee has yet to meet.
There is so much to do in Bright, the private gardens will be open, there is a golf course, wineries, great pubs, bike riding, day trips to Mt Buller, Falls Creek, the Bogong High Plains (includes the huts) and Mount Hotham etc. Kathy and Ken Lewis have offered to have a wine and cheese night at their home in Bright.
A booking has been confirmed at the Bright High Country Motor Inn, which is about 1km to the centre of Bright, the motel is on the river next to the river walk.
Cost
It is to early to give a definitive cost. However, $2000 - $2,500 per couple should cover everything, those on a bus are likely to pay more based on the numbers wanting to go on a bus.
Rob Clarke
Annual Giant Rotary Book Sale
The WPH & Cherrybrook Rotary club held their 2020 annual giant book sale on Friday 13th, Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th March at the Cherrybrook Uniting Church.
Despite the inclement weather and the corona virus pandemic we had a very successful book sale netting around $13,000 which will be used to assist our selected charities.
Thanks to all those members that helped during the book sorts and the actual book sale.
Your help was much appreciated.
Despite the inclement weather and the corona virus pandemic we had a very successful book sale netting around $13,000 which will be used to assist our selected charities.
Thanks to all those members that helped during the book sorts and the actual book sale.
Your help was much appreciated.
Duty Roster - March Meeting (Cancelled)
Activities & Leaders
As a result of the sign-up sheets at the Foundation Meeting and expressions of interest on application forms we have set up numerous activities and interest groups.
Newsletter Copy Deadline
Please provide your contributions for the April Newsletter by Friday 10th April.
Please email to Glenda Coote or Bev Davison for activities or direct to Andrew Little for other articles.
Alternatively place directly into Dropbox under WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2020 04
Please provide your contributions for the April Newsletter by Friday 10th April.
Please email to Glenda Coote or Bev Davison for activities or direct to Andrew Little for other articles.
Alternatively place directly into Dropbox under WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2020 04
PLEASE NOTE that all activities, with the exception of book challenge, cycling, gardening, golf, mens group, movies, tennis and walking, have been cancelled until further notice. For information on the above activities, please go to the relevant sections further down
Click on activity to go straight there!
| Activity Group | Leaders |
| Book Challenge | Sue Calabrese |
| Book Club | Bev Davison |
| Bridge | David Antonjuk |
| Cards | David Turner, Barbara Taylor |
| Cruises | Sue Hackett & Donna Fraser |
| Cycling | Bruce Bartle & Tony Coote |
| Day Trips (Bus/Train/Ferry) | Helen Games |
| Dining Out | Douglas Lam, Glenda Coote |
| Gardening | Sue Small, Lorenza Powyer |
| Golf | Tony Coote, Terry Ridge |
| Investment Group | David Antonjuk |
| Lawn Bowls | Morrie Fitzpatrick |
| Mens Club | Rene Beutler |
| Mixed Social Group | Kim Nicholls |
| Movies | Sue Small and Lorenza Powyer |
| Opal Card Overnight Trips | Max Henderson |
| Overseas Travel | Looking For Leader |
| Photography | Rob Clarke |
| Ten Pin Bowling | Douglas Matthews |
| Tennis | Bob Davison |
| Theatre and Musicals | Bruce Bartle |
| Travel Within Australia | Glenda Coote & Tony Coote |
| Walking Group | Bob Carritt |
| Wine & Cheese | Julie Shenstone, Susan Antonjuk |
| For an activity group to start, a member needs to step forward to lead the group | |
WPH&D PROBUS BOOK CHALLENGE
What a great year and a bit of reading and such a diverse range of titles.
To sum up, our little band of seven read:
A total of 106 books for 2019 – surpassing our 87-goal challenge.
A total 32 books for the Spring/Summer Challenge – surpassing our 29-goal challenge
A total of 5 books so far for the first month of the Curl Up and Read.
The Curl Up and Read Challenge will last from March to the end of August this year, taking us through the colder months. Each member writes their feelings about the book they have read and that gives all of us an opportunity to maybe delve into a writer we might never have tried, or the writer we should run screaming from, so I urge you to join up and find out what we are up to with our reading.
To work out your challenge, a suggestion is to estimate an achievable for each month and then add one extra. So my challenge is 19: 3 books a month for 6 months, plus the extra book. I’m reading a real humdinger at the moment.
The New Challenge Sign up sheet will be on the back table at the meeting, so don’t wait. All the details are on the flyer that you are welcome to take home. You can also speak to me at any time about the challenge. It’s something you can do in your own time, but still share with others.
The Facebook page is a closed group, so only members can see the posts.
If you wish to join in via email only, then that is also possible. Just let me know.
Hardcopy, ebook, audio book, fiction or non-fiction, substantial children’s books all allowed.
Sue Calabrese
Leader - Sue Calabrese
What a great year and a bit of reading and such a diverse range of titles.
To sum up, our little band of seven read:
A total of 106 books for 2019 – surpassing our 87-goal challenge.
A total 32 books for the Spring/Summer Challenge – surpassing our 29-goal challenge
A total of 5 books so far for the first month of the Curl Up and Read.
The Curl Up and Read Challenge will last from March to the end of August this year, taking us through the colder months. Each member writes their feelings about the book they have read and that gives all of us an opportunity to maybe delve into a writer we might never have tried, or the writer we should run screaming from, so I urge you to join up and find out what we are up to with our reading.
To work out your challenge, a suggestion is to estimate an achievable for each month and then add one extra. So my challenge is 19: 3 books a month for 6 months, plus the extra book. I’m reading a real humdinger at the moment.
The New Challenge Sign up sheet will be on the back table at the meeting, so don’t wait. All the details are on the flyer that you are welcome to take home. You can also speak to me at any time about the challenge. It’s something you can do in your own time, but still share with others.
The Facebook page is a closed group, so only members can see the posts.
If you wish to join in via email only, then that is also possible. Just let me know.
Hardcopy, ebook, audio book, fiction or non-fiction, substantial children’s books all allowed.
Sue Calabrese
Leader - Sue Calabrese
March 2020 Report
At our last meeting we received our latest read, which is Elizabeth is Missing by Emma Healey.
Due to the corona virus & social distancing requirements, book club get togethers have been cancelled until further notice.
Leader - Bev Davison
Card Report for March 2020 Newsletter
Our last card night was held on Friday 28 February with a great turnout for dinner and 31 playing cards at the Dural Country Club.
Due to the corona virus and social distancing rules, the card evening scheduled for Friday 27 March has been cancelled.
All future card evenings have also been cancelled until further notice.
Leaders - David Turner & Barbara Taylor
Our last card night was held on Friday 28 February with a great turnout for dinner and 31 playing cards at the Dural Country Club.
Due to the corona virus and social distancing rules, the card evening scheduled for Friday 27 March has been cancelled.
All future card evenings have also been cancelled until further notice.
Leaders - David Turner & Barbara Taylor
Cycling outings will continue as social distancing rules can be adhered to.
An email will be sent to the group providing details on the next ride.
An email will be sent to the group providing details on the next ride.
Day Trip to Kamay Botany Bay National Park - Wednesday 18th March
This was planned as a bus trip to Kamay Botany Bay National Park and Cronulla but as the Corona Virus Pandemic set in we had to adapt to make sure we could practise social distancing and be out in the open air. Eight people - out of an original group of twenty - travelled by car to the Visitors Centre in the National Park. The museum and video at the centre described what happened for eight days in April and May 1770 when His Majesty’s Barque Endeavour, while on a voyage of discovery around the world, stopped in Botany Bay. The museum and outside displays described life for the Aboriginal people before the arrival of Captain Cook, the work of naturalists Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander, Captain Cook and astronomer Charles Green.
Following our tour of the Visitors Centre, we took the Burrawang Track through the park and along the foreshore, passing various displays before we arrived at Captain Cook’s Landing Place. It was a warm, sunny, day with a blue sky and a sparkling turquoise sea – just the thing to help you forget about the worries of the Corona Virus. We drove along Solander Drive to the whale watching station with its view of the cliffs and Pacific Ocean.
Lunch was eaten at Zimzala café on the beach where we enjoyed the sea breeze, the good food and the special company.
A memorable day.
Following our tour of the Visitors Centre, we took the Burrawang Track through the park and along the foreshore, passing various displays before we arrived at Captain Cook’s Landing Place. It was a warm, sunny, day with a blue sky and a sparkling turquoise sea – just the thing to help you forget about the worries of the Corona Virus. We drove along Solander Drive to the whale watching station with its view of the cliffs and Pacific Ocean.
Lunch was eaten at Zimzala café on the beach where we enjoyed the sea breeze, the good food and the special company.
A memorable day.
Leaders - Helen Games, Glenda Coote
Dining out has been cancelled until further notice
Leaders - Douglas Lam, Glenda Coote
As usual we had a big group of our Probus members attend The Bunnings Gardening Group in March, where we had a very entertaining presenter talk about ‘worm farming’ - getting started, benefits to our gardens, as well as the environment, and how to maintain “happy” worms!
At the end of the presentation, several of our members won luck ticket draws and received a range of products.
Sue is looking at potential visits to various public gardens so that members can get outside and breathe some fresh air. This would be undertaken according to all Corona virus guidelines.
An email will be sent out to the garden group regarding potential visits to determine members interest in these visits.
If you are not on the Gardening Group list and would be interested in attending these visits, please let Sue know.
At the end of the presentation, several of our members won luck ticket draws and received a range of products.
Sue is looking at potential visits to various public gardens so that members can get outside and breathe some fresh air. This would be undertaken according to all Corona virus guidelines.
An email will be sent out to the garden group regarding potential visits to determine members interest in these visits.
If you are not on the Gardening Group list and would be interested in attending these visits, please let Sue know.
Leaders - Sue Small, Lorenza Powyer
Golf Group March 2020
Hello from the rain man,
As with last month our planned game at Asquith did not happen, it rained the night before and I felt sure it would rain the next day, as it turned out the day was wonderful, who would guess.
Well I’m trying for three in a row. Thanks to Bruce Bartle we have a booking at Carnarvon Golf Course on 3rd April 2020. Bruce has been considerate and booked 8 players for a 9:00 am start and 8 players for a 11:00am start. One cart has been booked for each group of four players.
Those players new and existing could you let me know by email your intention to play at Carnarvon 03rd April 2020.
NB: Note later start time to allow for travel and traffic.
Separate email to be sent to registered players, new players welcome please email me to confirm.
Golf will continue as normal as social distancing rules can be adhered to.
Terry
Co-Leaders: Terry Ridge & Tony Coote
Investment Group
The Probus Investment Group met on Tuesday 17th March at my home. The presentation was titled: “Financial Survival in a Post-Coronovirus World”. As was expected the presentation stimulated lot of discussion about the way people in different financial situations should approach their finances. We also viewed a YouTube video on the COVID-19 (which is the correct name for the illness, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is now the correct scientific name for the virus).
Apart from the usual tea and coffee, we concluded the meeting with a freshly baked lemon tea cake - perhaps again the highlight of the morning for some.
Given the unprecedented (most overused word of the year?) and highly fluid situation with the spread of the coronavirus throughout the community, we have for the foreseeable future, suspended the Investment Group meetings.
Leader - David Antonjuk
The Probus Investment Group met on Tuesday 17th March at my home. The presentation was titled: “Financial Survival in a Post-Coronovirus World”. As was expected the presentation stimulated lot of discussion about the way people in different financial situations should approach their finances. We also viewed a YouTube video on the COVID-19 (which is the correct name for the illness, which is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is now the correct scientific name for the virus).
Apart from the usual tea and coffee, we concluded the meeting with a freshly baked lemon tea cake - perhaps again the highlight of the morning for some.
Given the unprecedented (most overused word of the year?) and highly fluid situation with the spread of the coronavirus throughout the community, we have for the foreseeable future, suspended the Investment Group meetings.
Leader - David Antonjuk
Lawn Bowls
We had 9 starters for bowls at the Hills Club on 18/3/2020, however, I was advised late today (17/3) that Bowls NSW has cancelled all games of bowls from today, until further notice, due to the virus.
I have contacted all players of cancellation.
Bowling clubs will remain open, at this stage, but no bowls are to be played.
I will advise when bowls will re-commence.
Leader - Morrie Fitzpatrick
We had 9 starters for bowls at the Hills Club on 18/3/2020, however, I was advised late today (17/3) that Bowls NSW has cancelled all games of bowls from today, until further notice, due to the virus.
I have contacted all players of cancellation.
Bowling clubs will remain open, at this stage, but no bowls are to be played.
I will advise when bowls will re-commence.
Leader - Morrie Fitzpatrick
MEN'S CLUB - March
Thursday 19th March the Men's' Group got together at Edward Bennett Park in Cherrybrook. Five of us met for some fun, friendship and fresh air! We played several games of Finska and discovered that chucking wood can be a very addictive and enjoyable! All this activity was followed by some liquid refreshments that were kindly supplied by Cliff. Thanks guys for a great afternoon of fun!
The group will be notified by email of any future activities which will be held outside where social distancing rules can be adhered to.
Leader - Rene Beutler
All mixed social group mornings have been cancelled until further notice.
Leaders- Kim Nicholls & Sue Cordukes
MOVIE GROUP
At our February movie day, Movie Group Members split up to see a several difference movies.
This included:
1917 - During World War I, two British soldiers -- Lance Cpl. Schofield and Lance Cpl. Blake -- receive seemingly impossible orders. In a race against time, they must cross over into enemy territory to deliver a message that could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades.
Midway - On Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese forces launch a devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. naval base in Hawaii. Six months later, the Battle of Midway commences on June 4, 1942, as the Japanese navy once again plans a strike against American ships in the Pacific. For the next three days, the U.S. Navy and a squad of brave fighter pilots engage the enemy in one of the most important and decisive battles of World War II.
Dolittle - Dr. John Dolittle lives in solitude behind the high walls of his lush manor in 19th-century England. His only companionship comes from an array of exotic animals that he speaks to on a daily basis. But when young Queen Victoria becomes gravely ill, the eccentric doctor and his furry friends embark on an epic adventure to a mythical island to find the cure.
A Beautiful Day In The Neighbourhood - Lloyd Vogel is an investigative journalist who receives an assignment to profile Fred Rogers, aka Mr. Rogers. He approaches the interview with skepticism, as he finds it hard to believe that anyone can have such a good nature. But Roger's empathy, kindness and decency soon chips away at Vogel's jaded outlook on life, forcing the reporter to reconcile with his own painful past.
As per our usual routine, we then all met up for lunch and a good catch up chat.
The next Movie Day is on Tuesday, 7th April, however Sue will inform members by email, closer to the date, as to whether this event will be on. Movie options will also be emailed for Movie group members nearer to the day.
Please let Sue know if you’re interested in being added to the Gardening and/or Movie email group lists to be kept up to date of the activities.
At our February movie day, Movie Group Members split up to see a several difference movies.
This included:
1917 - During World War I, two British soldiers -- Lance Cpl. Schofield and Lance Cpl. Blake -- receive seemingly impossible orders. In a race against time, they must cross over into enemy territory to deliver a message that could potentially save 1,600 of their fellow comrades.
Midway - On Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese forces launch a devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. naval base in Hawaii. Six months later, the Battle of Midway commences on June 4, 1942, as the Japanese navy once again plans a strike against American ships in the Pacific. For the next three days, the U.S. Navy and a squad of brave fighter pilots engage the enemy in one of the most important and decisive battles of World War II.
Dolittle - Dr. John Dolittle lives in solitude behind the high walls of his lush manor in 19th-century England. His only companionship comes from an array of exotic animals that he speaks to on a daily basis. But when young Queen Victoria becomes gravely ill, the eccentric doctor and his furry friends embark on an epic adventure to a mythical island to find the cure.
A Beautiful Day In The Neighbourhood - Lloyd Vogel is an investigative journalist who receives an assignment to profile Fred Rogers, aka Mr. Rogers. He approaches the interview with skepticism, as he finds it hard to believe that anyone can have such a good nature. But Roger's empathy, kindness and decency soon chips away at Vogel's jaded outlook on life, forcing the reporter to reconcile with his own painful past.
As per our usual routine, we then all met up for lunch and a good catch up chat.
The next Movie Day is on Tuesday, 7th April, however Sue will inform members by email, closer to the date, as to whether this event will be on. Movie options will also be emailed for Movie group members nearer to the day.
Please let Sue know if you’re interested in being added to the Gardening and/or Movie email group lists to be kept up to date of the activities.
Leaders – Lorenza Powyer & Sue Small
OPAL CARD TRIPS
I’m now seeking suggestions for out next trip which will possibly be October 2020.
Max Henderson
I’m now seeking suggestions for out next trip which will possibly be October 2020.
Max Henderson
Leader - Max Henderson
Probus Photography Group
Wednesday March 4, 2020 Meeting
We had seven attendees at the Clarke’s residence to review five photographs from each attendee with the theme being Australian landscapes. If people do not have photos from the theme, they bring five other photos for comment by the group. The comments are mainly around composition and light.
Lynne Henderson’s photo of Montgomery Reef off North Western Australia was considered the best from the night. Well done Lynne.
Wednesday March 4, 2020 Meeting
We had seven attendees at the Clarke’s residence to review five photographs from each attendee with the theme being Australian landscapes. If people do not have photos from the theme, they bring five other photos for comment by the group. The comments are mainly around composition and light.
Lynne Henderson’s photo of Montgomery Reef off North Western Australia was considered the best from the night. Well done Lynne.
Other photographs from the night were:
Balaka Falls Outing March 10
Balaka Falls is in Carlingford and a short walk from the street. The purpose was to use low speed photography to capture the silky look of the water coming over the falls. Some of the eight people who attended downloaded the slow speed app for I-Phones called “Slow Shutter Cam”. I believe it also available on android phones.
Photographs of the group and falls from the day are below:
Balaka Falls is in Carlingford and a short walk from the street. The purpose was to use low speed photography to capture the silky look of the water coming over the falls. Some of the eight people who attended downloaded the slow speed app for I-Phones called “Slow Shutter Cam”. I believe it also available on android phones.
Photographs of the group and falls from the day are below:
Next Meeting
Please note that the next meeting due to be held on Wednesday April 1 at 7:30 at Rob Clarke's HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
Rob is reviewing the different options for video conferencing so that the meeting can be held on the above date & time.
He will come back to the photography group with a recommendation prior to the 1st April.
In the meantime please email your black & white photos to Rob.
We should be able to review these using video conferencing.
Theme for the Month: Black and White Photographs (Monochrome)
Next Outing: Boothtown Aqueduct – Postponed until further notice.
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone
Please note that the next meeting due to be held on Wednesday April 1 at 7:30 at Rob Clarke's HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
Rob is reviewing the different options for video conferencing so that the meeting can be held on the above date & time.
He will come back to the photography group with a recommendation prior to the 1st April.
In the meantime please email your black & white photos to Rob.
We should be able to review these using video conferencing.
Theme for the Month: Black and White Photographs (Monochrome)
Next Outing: Boothtown Aqueduct – Postponed until further notice.
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone
Ten Pin Bowling Report - March
Based on guidelines issued by the Federal Government Ten Pin Bowling is suspended until further notice.
As I have done in the past I will send a text to all members who have played, or indicated they would like to play when it is safe to restart.
In the meantime please keep safe & well.
Based on guidelines issued by the Federal Government Ten Pin Bowling is suspended until further notice.
As I have done in the past I will send a text to all members who have played, or indicated they would like to play when it is safe to restart.
In the meantime please keep safe & well.
Leader - Doug Matthews
Tennis Group Report- March 2020
We play every Monday morning from 9.00am to about 10:30am at West Pennant Hills Sports Club weather permitting, a small group but we have fun.
We would welcome more players so why not come along and join us.
Your standard of play isn’t important, just come along and give it a go, you might surprise yourself and have fun.
Tennis will continue as social distancing rules can be adhered to.
Leader - Bob Davison
We play every Monday morning from 9.00am to about 10:30am at West Pennant Hills Sports Club weather permitting, a small group but we have fun.
We would welcome more players so why not come along and join us.
Your standard of play isn’t important, just come along and give it a go, you might surprise yourself and have fun.
Tennis will continue as social distancing rules can be adhered to.
Leader - Bob Davison
Live Theatre March 2020
Given the recent implementation of social distancing in response to the Corona Virus emergency, our proposed theatre party in May 2020 to Pricilla Queen of the Desert has been cancelled with the production now unlikely to go ahead at this time. Any monies received in respect of this outing will be refunded in full.
In addition to this, rehearsals for Kinky Boots (10-18 July 2020) Sydney Youth Musical Theatre, Hornsby RSL Club, have been suspended until mid-April and I will keep you all informed about any developments.
Disney’s Frozen:
A message from Disney 15/3/20: “As of today, Frozen the Musical in Sydney is proceeding with all performances currently on sale from 7 July 2020 at the Capitol Theatre. We understand that the situation is changing day to day and these are challenging times. In the event that any performances are required to be cancelled in the future, customers can be assured that full refunds will be given.”
Adapted from the Oscar-winning film, Frozen the Musical is expertly brought to the stage by acclaimed Director Michael Grandage, giving life to this beloved story in an all new, unforgettable theatrical experience.
We have currently reserved 30 seats for the Australian premiere season of Disney’s Frozen at the Capitol Theatre, Wednesday 19 August 2020 at 7:00pm cost is $78 including return bus. Frozen opened on Broadway on March 22, 2018 and has since set (and subsequently broken!) four St. James Theatre house records.
Payment is due by 24th March 2020 to West Pennant Hills and District Probus Club Activities and Events Account. Please quote your surname and “Frozen”
Come from Away:
Also, just announced, The Tony® and Olivier Award winning musical Come From Away at the State Theatre with 30 seats reserved on Wednesday 9 September 2020 cost will be $98.
This show tells the remarkable true story of thousands of stranded passengers as a result of
9/11 and the small town in Newfoundland, Canada that welcomed them all. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.
No payment required at this time.
Given the recent implementation of social distancing in response to the Corona Virus emergency, our proposed theatre party in May 2020 to Pricilla Queen of the Desert has been cancelled with the production now unlikely to go ahead at this time. Any monies received in respect of this outing will be refunded in full.
In addition to this, rehearsals for Kinky Boots (10-18 July 2020) Sydney Youth Musical Theatre, Hornsby RSL Club, have been suspended until mid-April and I will keep you all informed about any developments.
Disney’s Frozen:
A message from Disney 15/3/20: “As of today, Frozen the Musical in Sydney is proceeding with all performances currently on sale from 7 July 2020 at the Capitol Theatre. We understand that the situation is changing day to day and these are challenging times. In the event that any performances are required to be cancelled in the future, customers can be assured that full refunds will be given.”
Adapted from the Oscar-winning film, Frozen the Musical is expertly brought to the stage by acclaimed Director Michael Grandage, giving life to this beloved story in an all new, unforgettable theatrical experience.
We have currently reserved 30 seats for the Australian premiere season of Disney’s Frozen at the Capitol Theatre, Wednesday 19 August 2020 at 7:00pm cost is $78 including return bus. Frozen opened on Broadway on March 22, 2018 and has since set (and subsequently broken!) four St. James Theatre house records.
Payment is due by 24th March 2020 to West Pennant Hills and District Probus Club Activities and Events Account. Please quote your surname and “Frozen”
Come from Away:
Also, just announced, The Tony® and Olivier Award winning musical Come From Away at the State Theatre with 30 seats reserved on Wednesday 9 September 2020 cost will be $98.
This show tells the remarkable true story of thousands of stranded passengers as a result of
9/11 and the small town in Newfoundland, Canada that welcomed them all. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.
No payment required at this time.
Leader - Bruce Bartle
Mid-West NSW Adventure April 2020 - POSTPONED
Mid-West NSW Adventure 27th April to 1st May, 2020
Please note that the Mid-West trip has been postponed to a date yet to be determined.
Please note that the Mid-West trip has been postponed to a date yet to be determined.
Leaders - Tony & Glenda Coote
WYNYARD to CIRCULAR QUAY via BARANGAROO
Tuesday 10th March
Many thanks to the twelve club members that attended the WYNYARD via BARANGAROO to CIRCULAR QUAY, It was a great day with a slow walk that everyone enjoyed.
Very relaxing and it is great to see how the foreshore at Barangaroo is changing.
We had many interesting facts and figures, including plant names, with an excellent pass mark for all attendees. This walk is recommended to all, as it a very flat walk with the only climb is in a ’lift’.
Hope to see you at the next walking activity.
WALKING SERIES
In the current pandemic situation that we find ourselves, it would be nice to be able to get outside occasionally. One of the activities that is still available to us is to go walking in the great outdoors. Accordingly I am scheduling a series of walks in the local district to be run every two weeks. Hopefully, this will alleviate Cabin Fever and help us all through this difficult period. In order to reduce the risk, we will need to adhere to certain restrictions:
Bob Carritt
Walking Schedule
1. O’Hara’s Creek Walk (Kenthurst): Tuesday 31st March
Enjoy a lovely walk along a sandstone ridge with significant sandstone ridge top vegetation and down into a valley of tall trees. You can also find a large variety of local wildflowers and you will have the opportunity to take in the district views.
Expect to see district views, a variety of Sydney’s distinctive wildflowers and if you are lucky - a glimpse of a swamp wallaby during the Wildflower Walk in Middle Dural.
3. Forest Walk (Cumberland State Forest): Tuesday 28th April
Enjoy walking through Cumberland State Forest - the only urban forest in Australia. A feature of this walk is the tall native trees and Cabbage Tree Palms. As well as gullies and ferns, there is plenty of birdlife to also see in the forest.
This walk goes through the Headwaters of Toongabbie Creek, which was the earliest settlement in Baulkham Hills.
This walk provides the opportunity to lap up views of the Coachwood and Excelsior Creeks and then a walk along the shady valleys of these creeks amongst ferns and Coachwood Trees.
An early farm house, original land grants, a mysterious grave, remnant bushland including Forest Red Gum Woodland and Heathland, waterways and water birds are just some of the things you will see while completing this walk through Rouse Hill.
This walk is one of the more challenging walks in The Hills Shire. Here you will see beautiful creek valleys, sandstone shelters and some sandstone heath land.
This walk follows Darling Mills Creek to the only waterfall in The Hills through pretty native scenery including tall Blue Gums, sandstone gullies and wildflowers.
In the current pandemic situation that we find ourselves, it would be nice to be able to get outside occasionally. One of the activities that is still available to us is to go walking in the great outdoors. Accordingly I am scheduling a series of walks in the local district to be run every two weeks. Hopefully, this will alleviate Cabin Fever and help us all through this difficult period. In order to reduce the risk, we will need to adhere to certain restrictions:
- No car pooling
- No handshakes, social distancing
- No coffee or get together afterwards
- No attendees with cold or flu symptoms
Bob Carritt
Walking Schedule
1. O’Hara’s Creek Walk (Kenthurst): Tuesday 31st March
Enjoy a lovely walk along a sandstone ridge with significant sandstone ridge top vegetation and down into a valley of tall trees. You can also find a large variety of local wildflowers and you will have the opportunity to take in the district views.
- Distance: 6.2 kilometres Starting Point: Fire Trail at end of Porters Rd Kenthurst
- Grade: Moderate includes 95 metre ascent and descent
- Time: Two and a half hours.
Expect to see district views, a variety of Sydney’s distinctive wildflowers and if you are lucky - a glimpse of a swamp wallaby during the Wildflower Walk in Middle Dural.
- Distance: 3.5 kilometres Starting Point: Fire trail at the end of Cranstons Road
- Grade: Moderate. Steep ascent and descent
- Time: One and a half hours.
3. Forest Walk (Cumberland State Forest): Tuesday 28th April
Enjoy walking through Cumberland State Forest - the only urban forest in Australia. A feature of this walk is the tall native trees and Cabbage Tree Palms. As well as gullies and ferns, there is plenty of birdlife to also see in the forest.
- Distance: 1.8 kilometres Starting Point: Car park, Cumberland State Forest
- Grade: Moderate
- Time: One and a half hours.
This walk goes through the Headwaters of Toongabbie Creek, which was the earliest settlement in Baulkham Hills.
- Distance: 6.4 km Starting Point: Astrid Avenue Baulkham Hills
- Grade: Easy
- Time: Two and a half to three hours.
This walk provides the opportunity to lap up views of the Coachwood and Excelsior Creeks and then a walk along the shady valleys of these creeks amongst ferns and Coachwood Trees.
- Distance: 2.2 kilometres Starting Point: Fire trail at the end of Excelsior Ave
- Grade: Moderate (some steep slopes, two creek crossings on stepping stones)
- Time: One and a half hours.
An early farm house, original land grants, a mysterious grave, remnant bushland including Forest Red Gum Woodland and Heathland, waterways and water birds are just some of the things you will see while completing this walk through Rouse Hill.
- Distance: 4.4 kilometres Start Point: Car park, Aberdour Ave Rouse Hill
- Grade: Easy
- Time: Two hours.
This walk is one of the more challenging walks in The Hills Shire. Here you will see beautiful creek valleys, sandstone shelters and some sandstone heath land.
- Distance: 3.3 kilometres Starting Point: Cnr Willow Drive & Cook Street
- Grade: Moderate. Some steep sections and three creek crossings on stepping stones
- Time: Two hours.
This walk follows Darling Mills Creek to the only waterfall in The Hills through pretty native scenery including tall Blue Gums, sandstone gullies and wildflowers.
- Distance: 3.4 kilometres or 3.1 kilometres without the additional loop
- Starting Point: Richard Webb Reserve, Aiken Rd West Pennant Hills
- Grade: Moderate
- Time: One and a half to two hours.
Leaders - Bob Carritt & Enio Dona
Wine and Cheese
Wine & Cheese night for March will be at Glenda & Tony Coote’s residence on Friday 20th had to be cancelled due to the corona virus pandemic & social distancing requirements.
Hence all W&C evenings have been cancelled until further notice.
Wine & Cheese night for March will be at Glenda & Tony Coote’s residence on Friday 20th had to be cancelled due to the corona virus pandemic & social distancing requirements.
Hence all W&C evenings have been cancelled until further notice.
Leader Julie Shenstone
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.
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.
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Newsletter Editor: Andrew Little
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