President's Report
President’s Report - March 2023
The Probus 2022_23 year is drawing to an end with the AGM this month.
Thank you everyone for your participation over the last year, as either a committee member, activity leader, assistant, or participant. It is the engagement of all our members that makes the club successful. I again encourage you to lead or assist with an activity to allow innovative ideas to be introduced and give our current leaders a rest for a time.
Membership photos will not be taken this month because of the AGM. They will continue in future months for all those that are happy to have them posted on the secure private section of the website.
I am finishing my term as president and again extend my thanks to all the committee who have made my task so easy. My detailed thanks are in the Annual Report. My best wishes to Cathy Turner, your incoming president, who will be a fantastic leader over the next twelve months or more.
It has been a privilege and honour to serve the club over the last year.
Bain Shenstone - President
The Probus 2022_23 year is drawing to an end with the AGM this month.
Thank you everyone for your participation over the last year, as either a committee member, activity leader, assistant, or participant. It is the engagement of all our members that makes the club successful. I again encourage you to lead or assist with an activity to allow innovative ideas to be introduced and give our current leaders a rest for a time.
Membership photos will not be taken this month because of the AGM. They will continue in future months for all those that are happy to have them posted on the secure private section of the website.
I am finishing my term as president and again extend my thanks to all the committee who have made my task so easy. My detailed thanks are in the Annual Report. My best wishes to Cathy Turner, your incoming president, who will be a fantastic leader over the next twelve months or more.
It has been a privilege and honour to serve the club over the last year.
Bain Shenstone - President
Secretarial
Correspondence In
Correspondence Out
- Received 2023/24 Probus Club Handbook from PSPL including promotional Material for the incoming President & Secretary's reference.
Correspondence Out
- None
Bev Dona
Details of the Probus Member Benefit Scheme are at:
www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/members_offers_member_benefits_scheme (Cntl click on link)
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
Michael Stinson
Treasurer
Treasurer
Membership
Just 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.
- Currently membership is closed, awaiting to see if all menmber renew their membership.
Welfare
WELFARE REPORT MARCH 2023
Good morning, everyone. Well Autumn has come but still not much relief from the heat. To stay hydrated is very important as we age gracefully. So keep up that water and have the water bottle beside you whenever possible.
I have contacted a member who has recently gone through a back operation to help alleviate pain. We wish you well and hope the recovery process continues to improve.
With school holidays and Easter coming up it’s time to enjoy family and friends and especially those little ankle biters. Ken and I would like to wish you all a very happy, healthy, and safe Easter. If you’ve been good the bunny just might hop by and leave a little surprise for you.
Probus is a great club to be a member of with its basic purpose to advance intellectual and cultural interests amongst adult persons; to provide regular opportunities to progress healthy minds and active bodies, through social interaction and activities, expand interests and to enjoy the fellowship of new friends. Maybe it’s time to try a new activity that you haven’t tried before. Give it a go and enjoy the friendships within the groups.
Please contact us if you know of anyone needing assistance.
Toni Smith & Ken Smith – Welfare Officers
Good morning, everyone. Well Autumn has come but still not much relief from the heat. To stay hydrated is very important as we age gracefully. So keep up that water and have the water bottle beside you whenever possible.
I have contacted a member who has recently gone through a back operation to help alleviate pain. We wish you well and hope the recovery process continues to improve.
With school holidays and Easter coming up it’s time to enjoy family and friends and especially those little ankle biters. Ken and I would like to wish you all a very happy, healthy, and safe Easter. If you’ve been good the bunny just might hop by and leave a little surprise for you.
Probus is a great club to be a member of with its basic purpose to advance intellectual and cultural interests amongst adult persons; to provide regular opportunities to progress healthy minds and active bodies, through social interaction and activities, expand interests and to enjoy the fellowship of new friends. Maybe it’s time to try a new activity that you haven’t tried before. Give it a go and enjoy the friendships within the groups.
Please contact us if you know of anyone needing assistance.
Toni Smith & Ken Smith – Welfare Officers
February Guest Speaker - ??
There will be no guest speaker this month, we are conducting the AGM instead. This is much more exciting than a Guest Speaker.
We will also be taking member photos to be incorporated into a "member photo" list which will be in the private section of the website. If you don't want your photo taken, please let Bain know (he will be the photographer).
We will also be taking member photos to be incorporated into a "member photo" list which will be in the private section of the website. If you don't want your photo taken, please let Bain know (he will be the photographer).
Club Covid 19 Policy
We have set down a Covid 19 policy for the club. Essentially we will abide by the NSW health guidelines. We ask all members to respect the health and wellbeing of their fellow members, and therefore not attend activities unless they are fully vaccinated. We have no desire to get into a situation where we need to physically check every attendee to determine their vaccination status. We are relying on the integrity of our members and the fact that they are endangering their friends if they do not abide by this policy.
:-
Newsletter Copy Deadline
Please provide your contributions for the March Newsletter by Friday 21st April 2023.
Please email to Stuart Mitchell for activities or direct to Andrew Little for other articles.
Alternatively place directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2023 04
Newsletter Copy Deadline
Please provide your contributions for the March Newsletter by Friday 21st April 2023.
Please email to Stuart Mitchell for activities or direct to Andrew Little for other articles.
Alternatively place directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2023 04
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, Cathy Turner |
Cycling | Gerard Siddle, Tony Coote |
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 |
Investment Group | David Antonjuk |
Mens Club | Rene Beutler |
Mixed Social Group | Helen Bulter, Hilda Somerfield |
Movies | John Cauchi, Sue Small, Lorenza Powyer |
Overseas Travel | Looking For Leader |
Photography | Rob Clarke, Bain Shenstone |
Ten Pin Bowling | Douglas Matthews, Paul Day |
Tennis | Bob Davison |
Theatre and Musicals | Bruce Bartle, Robyn Bartle |
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 | |
The club is looking for Dining Out Activity leaders
Currently Dining Out is being organized on a rotational basis for one month at a time. Please come and discuss with Stuart about taking on this roll for July to November 2023.
Currently Dining Out is being organized on a rotational basis for one month at a time. Please come and discuss with Stuart about taking on this roll for July to November 2023.
THROW COVID BEHIND US! - Its Gone
Now for the ‘Move On, Enjoy’ Challenge – MOE!
The THROW COVID is now over. We are ready to move on and enjoy reading for its own sake now. The total was 85 Books. Since this group was started back in 2019, we’ve read a total of 443 books! So many read a book because of someone else in the group. A great achievement.
The next Challenge – MOE – Move on, Enjoy! It will run from Mid-March ‘23 to next March ‘24. We have a group challenge of 86 books – one more than what was achieved this year. The group will aim to reach if through each person’s own individual challenge.
You can join at any time – just set your challenge from your starting point – calculate how many you read in a month x the number of months you are in the challenge PLUS 1 more. Read your own choice of book, post about it, and enjoy the rundowns of the other readers. 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.
Since mid-February:
Queen Bee by Ciara Geraghty: enjoyable, light-hearted, but some of the humour missed the mark for the reader. Agatha unexpectedly becomes a pin-up girl for menopausal women everywhere after she completely loses the plot at a book festival, with her words and reactions going viral and she becomes high demand. While she is busy dealing with this, her personal life begins to fracture. Now she has to face some truths and figure out how to get her house into order.
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip William: So good that it was disappointing to reach the end. Beautiful writing draws you right into the world of Esme. Her childhood was spent under the table at the Scriptorium where her father is working with a team of lexicographers to create and publish the Oxford English Dictionary, beginning in the late 1800’s. Esme picks up word slips that fall from the table as they work and starts her own collection of ‘lost words’. She discovers that some words seem to be more important than others. The words and their meanings of women are often deemed unimportant. She begins to collect more ‘women’s words’ from around her – often only spoken, never recorded in books – and this collection forms the content of ‘The Dictionary of Lost Words’. It follows her fictional life through real history, including women’s suffrage and the Great War.
Exiles by Jane Harper: The story of the disappearance of a woman the previous year, and a motor vehicle accident that killed a man 7 years earlier. Both mysteries get solved with a lot of twists during the process.
The Shadow Sister by Lucinda Riley; The 3rd book in The Seven Sisters series. This series is becoming more and more popular. Those who’ve read the 7 books now eagerly await the arrival of ‘Pa Salt’ – the man who adopted all these girls.
Educated – a memoir by Tara Westover: A book club read, reviewed before. Gives a real insight into how people can become and remain victims through ignorance of anything else, or who go out, get educated and realise the horror of the manipulative, toxic family they must leave behind.
It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover: Another story about manipulation and control but it feels like you are listening in to a therapy session where the therapist is giving advice. Maybe an American thing? They seem to thrive on therapy. Lilly and Atlas meet when he is homeless, then re-meet a decade later. Lilly’s father was manipulative and controlling, Atlas’s father is unknown to him, his stepfather is an a…hole, and his mother is a totally self-absorbed violent twat. They meet up again when Lilly has the strength to divorce her husband, but she still has moments of fear when he has his access visits to their daughter.
The Survivors by Jane Harper: A storm happens off a small Tasmanian coastal town. 3 lives are lost. 10 years later a girl is murdered so a more thorough investigation is conducted. The secrets, lies and regrets in the town are threatened. Not a bad read, but the ending was weak.
Nice Work (If You Can Get It) by Celia Imrie: A light-hearted read. Set on the French Riviera we find an enterprising team of expats who plan to open a new restaurant. However, a mystery intruder makes them wonder what secrets the building conceals. The story flies through love triangles, conflicting business interests, and the race to open the restaurant in time. Knee-deep in skulduggery they can no longer tell who’s nasty and who’s nice.
Hope to see more of you join.
Leader: Sue Calabrese
Now for the ‘Move On, Enjoy’ Challenge – MOE!
The THROW COVID is now over. We are ready to move on and enjoy reading for its own sake now. The total was 85 Books. Since this group was started back in 2019, we’ve read a total of 443 books! So many read a book because of someone else in the group. A great achievement.
The next Challenge – MOE – Move on, Enjoy! It will run from Mid-March ‘23 to next March ‘24. We have a group challenge of 86 books – one more than what was achieved this year. The group will aim to reach if through each person’s own individual challenge.
You can join at any time – just set your challenge from your starting point – calculate how many you read in a month x the number of months you are in the challenge PLUS 1 more. Read your own choice of book, post about it, and enjoy the rundowns of the other readers. 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.
Since mid-February:
Queen Bee by Ciara Geraghty: enjoyable, light-hearted, but some of the humour missed the mark for the reader. Agatha unexpectedly becomes a pin-up girl for menopausal women everywhere after she completely loses the plot at a book festival, with her words and reactions going viral and she becomes high demand. While she is busy dealing with this, her personal life begins to fracture. Now she has to face some truths and figure out how to get her house into order.
The Dictionary of Lost Words by Pip William: So good that it was disappointing to reach the end. Beautiful writing draws you right into the world of Esme. Her childhood was spent under the table at the Scriptorium where her father is working with a team of lexicographers to create and publish the Oxford English Dictionary, beginning in the late 1800’s. Esme picks up word slips that fall from the table as they work and starts her own collection of ‘lost words’. She discovers that some words seem to be more important than others. The words and their meanings of women are often deemed unimportant. She begins to collect more ‘women’s words’ from around her – often only spoken, never recorded in books – and this collection forms the content of ‘The Dictionary of Lost Words’. It follows her fictional life through real history, including women’s suffrage and the Great War.
Exiles by Jane Harper: The story of the disappearance of a woman the previous year, and a motor vehicle accident that killed a man 7 years earlier. Both mysteries get solved with a lot of twists during the process.
The Shadow Sister by Lucinda Riley; The 3rd book in The Seven Sisters series. This series is becoming more and more popular. Those who’ve read the 7 books now eagerly await the arrival of ‘Pa Salt’ – the man who adopted all these girls.
Educated – a memoir by Tara Westover: A book club read, reviewed before. Gives a real insight into how people can become and remain victims through ignorance of anything else, or who go out, get educated and realise the horror of the manipulative, toxic family they must leave behind.
It Starts with Us by Colleen Hoover: Another story about manipulation and control but it feels like you are listening in to a therapy session where the therapist is giving advice. Maybe an American thing? They seem to thrive on therapy. Lilly and Atlas meet when he is homeless, then re-meet a decade later. Lilly’s father was manipulative and controlling, Atlas’s father is unknown to him, his stepfather is an a…hole, and his mother is a totally self-absorbed violent twat. They meet up again when Lilly has the strength to divorce her husband, but she still has moments of fear when he has his access visits to their daughter.
The Survivors by Jane Harper: A storm happens off a small Tasmanian coastal town. 3 lives are lost. 10 years later a girl is murdered so a more thorough investigation is conducted. The secrets, lies and regrets in the town are threatened. Not a bad read, but the ending was weak.
Nice Work (If You Can Get It) by Celia Imrie: A light-hearted read. Set on the French Riviera we find an enterprising team of expats who plan to open a new restaurant. However, a mystery intruder makes them wonder what secrets the building conceals. The story flies through love triangles, conflicting business interests, and the race to open the restaurant in time. Knee-deep in skulduggery they can no longer tell who’s nasty and who’s nice.
Hope to see more of you join.
Leader: Sue Calabrese
Book Club Report - March 2023
We haven’t had a meeting since the last report. We have the next get together on Thurs 30th March.
Currently reading Educated by Tara Westover (A Memoir). I believe our next book is The wife drought by Annabel Crabb.
Happy reading
Leader - Bev Davison
Cards 500 Report for March 2023
An enjoyable evening was held on the 24th February and due to the delay in the meeting dates another great evening on March 24th playing cards and dinner beforehand. Great to see new faces take up 500 playing.
Our next card night for 2023 will be Friday 28th April 2023
Venue: Dural Country Club
Time: 7pm start
Cost: $5 per head to play [please have correct money if possible]
Dinner: 5.45pm
An email will be sent out to the members on the interest list with details for dinner and cards a week ahead of the due date.
If you are not on the interest list and would like to join the card group please email David Turner on [email protected]
Leader - David Turner
An enjoyable evening was held on the 24th February and due to the delay in the meeting dates another great evening on March 24th playing cards and dinner beforehand. Great to see new faces take up 500 playing.
Our next card night for 2023 will be Friday 28th April 2023
Venue: Dural Country Club
Time: 7pm start
Cost: $5 per head to play [please have correct money if possible]
Dinner: 5.45pm
An email will be sent out to the members on the interest list with details for dinner and cards a week ahead of the due date.
If you are not on the interest list and would like to join the card group please email David Turner on [email protected]
Leader - David Turner
Cycling Group: March 2022
The March cycling “tour” commenced at Silverwater Park, followed by a leisurely ride along the southern banks of the Parramatta River, then the wetlands south of Rhodes up to the Olympic Park Station for a coffee in the adjacent park. The return trip went past the north side of the Sydney Showgrounds, along the busway to Hill Road. Then onto the bike path back down to the Parramatta River (approx. 15km in total).
The next ride will start from the Waterview Restaurant carpark in Bicentennial Park, for a tour through the Parklands and the Olympic Park precinct. Start time at 10.00am on Wednesday 19th April. We will stop for a coffee along the way.
Please bring your helmet, water and sunscreen.
Please let Tony Coote or Gerard Siddle know if you would like to join the ride.
Leaders - Tony Coote / Gerard Siddle
The March cycling “tour” commenced at Silverwater Park, followed by a leisurely ride along the southern banks of the Parramatta River, then the wetlands south of Rhodes up to the Olympic Park Station for a coffee in the adjacent park. The return trip went past the north side of the Sydney Showgrounds, along the busway to Hill Road. Then onto the bike path back down to the Parramatta River (approx. 15km in total).
The next ride will start from the Waterview Restaurant carpark in Bicentennial Park, for a tour through the Parklands and the Olympic Park precinct. Start time at 10.00am on Wednesday 19th April. We will stop for a coffee along the way.
Please bring your helmet, water and sunscreen.
Please let Tony Coote or Gerard Siddle know if you would like to join the ride.
Leaders - Tony Coote / Gerard Siddle
February's Dining Out was attended by 19 members at the Parramatta Club.
Many thanks to Christine Heaton for organizing this activity which was enjoyed by all who attended.
Many thanks to Christine Heaton for organizing this activity which was enjoyed by all who attended.
Dining Out for April 2023
Date - Lunch on Friday 28th April 2023, Midday or 12pm
Location - Glenorie RSL Club, Glenorie behind Glenorie Woolworths on Old Northern Rd.
3 Post Office Rd, Glenorie NSW 2157
Contact - Please advise Marilyn Savic by text message on 0409 924 663 or email [email protected]
Menu - Range of Fish, Pasta, Asian food & burgers
To view the range of menus click here
Date - Lunch on Friday 28th April 2023, Midday or 12pm
Location - Glenorie RSL Club, Glenorie behind Glenorie Woolworths on Old Northern Rd.
3 Post Office Rd, Glenorie NSW 2157
Contact - Please advise Marilyn Savic by text message on 0409 924 663 or email [email protected]
Menu - Range of Fish, Pasta, Asian food & burgers
To view the range of menus click here
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 roll for any month Jul to Nov 2023.
Leader - Looking For Monthly Leaders
Port Macquarie - Sunday 30 April to Wednesday 3 May 2023
We currently have a vacancy for this trip and a few final payments and/or adjustments required, refer Payments.
Whilst we had thirty for this trip, we currently have twenty-eight, thus opportunity knocks!
Payments and Costs:
Please note this table shows the totals paid to 24 March for the motel, pizza night, river cruise and the Koala hospital.
Whilst we had thirty for this trip, we currently have twenty-eight, thus opportunity knocks!
Payments and Costs:
Please note this table shows the totals paid to 24 March for the motel, pizza night, river cruise and the Koala hospital.
Whilst all payments should have been paid into the club’s Activities Account by the end of February, it’s not too late.
Please identify with your Surname & Port.
BSB 633-000
Acc 167288844
Regardless, of what you elect to do during the day we should all come together as one group for the sunset cruise and evening meals. After that how little or much you do, including the Koala Hospital is entirely up to you.
Except for the stated accommodation costs, sunset cruise, pizza night and Koala Hospital, it’s usually best if all costs, e.g. breakfasts, lunches, dinners and all activities are paid for separately by the participants.
Please identify with your Surname & Port.
BSB 633-000
Acc 167288844
Regardless, of what you elect to do during the day we should all come together as one group for the sunset cruise and evening meals. After that how little or much you do, including the Koala Hospital is entirely up to you.
Except for the stated accommodation costs, sunset cruise, pizza night and Koala Hospital, it’s usually best if all costs, e.g. breakfasts, lunches, dinners and all activities are paid for separately by the participants.
Accommodation:
We have made reservations at the Aston Hill Motor Lodge, 15 Mort Street, Port Macquarie, providing far more affordable rooms than the brand-named establishments.
The only practical way we can accommodate thirty in the motel was for two couples to share the only available two-bedroom apartment. Everyone else is in the $130 to $150/night price range.
Situated in a quiet location, adjacent parkland and 100 m from Hastings River Drive. All rooms, suites and apartments include air conditioning, kitchenette with microwave, free Wi-Fi and a TV with cable channels. Facilities include a barbecue area, swimming pool and guest laundry. It is about a 10-minute walk from Port Macquarie city centre and the Westport Club.
Evening Meals
We have booked the following:
We have made reservations at the Aston Hill Motor Lodge, 15 Mort Street, Port Macquarie, providing far more affordable rooms than the brand-named establishments.
The only practical way we can accommodate thirty in the motel was for two couples to share the only available two-bedroom apartment. Everyone else is in the $130 to $150/night price range.
Situated in a quiet location, adjacent parkland and 100 m from Hastings River Drive. All rooms, suites and apartments include air conditioning, kitchenette with microwave, free Wi-Fi and a TV with cable channels. Facilities include a barbecue area, swimming pool and guest laundry. It is about a 10-minute walk from Port Macquarie city centre and the Westport Club.
Evening Meals
We have booked the following:
- Sunday; Panthers Port Macquarie (situated in Settlement City), 1 Bay St, Port Macquarie https://portmacquarie.panthers.com.au/
- Monday; Pizza (take-away). The motel has a suitable area that will allow us to dine-in, please bring a small plate (pre-dinner nibbles or desert) to share and own drinks.
- Tuesday; The Westport Club, 25 Buller St, Port Macquarie https://www.thewestportclub.com.au/
Getting there
Port Macquarie is on the NSW mid North Coast, four hours’ drive (375Km) north of Sydney. This excludes any stops or detours to break the journey.
Apart from traditional maps, try your GPS (car or mobile), or the following links:
https://www.mynrma.com.au/travel/trip-planner’
https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/
If you are looking to add some interest to your trip, have a break or two try:
Port Macquarie is on the NSW mid North Coast, four hours’ drive (375Km) north of Sydney. This excludes any stops or detours to break the journey.
Apart from traditional maps, try your GPS (car or mobile), or the following links:
https://www.mynrma.com.au/travel/trip-planner’
https://www.google.com.au/maps/dir/
If you are looking to add some interest to your trip, have a break or two try:
- Raymond Terrace, Riverside Park, Hunter Street is on the banks of the Hunter River with picnic (gazebo’s, seating etc) facilities.
- Harrington is a small village located on the northern entrance of the Manning River, north of Taree and a few km kilometres off the highway. The European history of the area has a strong maritime flavour. Take a stroll on the Harrington breakwall or a drive up to Pilots Hill lookout (one of the better ones), where a monument guards the graves of ships’ pilots lost on the dangerous sandbars standing just off the river mouth.
- TimberTown, Wauchope, is a popular attraction, depicting the colonial era of a sawmiller's village, located on 39 hectares of coastal blackbutt forest. Appears post-Christmas holidays opening hours have been reduced to Saturday and Sunday 9.30am to 4.30pm. Might be one for Sunday afternoon, if you are prepared to leave Sydney early. https://timbertown.com.au/
Activities
The Port Macquarie region is a stunning destination in its own right, luring retirees, families, couples and those looking for a nature-based holiday. Blessed with sparkling beaches lined with pockets of rainforest, the area is also a significant habitat for koalas, with the world-famous Koala Hospital caring for the lovable endangered creatures.
Port Macquarie is the largest town in the region and bursting with restaurants, beaches, fun attractions and accommodation. To the south, the villages of North Haven, Laurieton and Kendall sit along the banks of the Camden Haven River. Further inland, Wauchope is a former timber town that’s now the gateway to lush rainforests.
A getaway in the Port Macquarie area means getting outside and enjoying the bounty of nature. From spotting dolphins from the painted break wall on the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, to whale watching cruises or strolling the boardwalk of the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, the unspoiled beauty of the region will dazzle. Further inland, hike the Laurieton track or visit World Heritage-listed Willi Willi National Park.
With so many attractions we have tried to identify those with broader appeal for Monday and leave Tuesday free to allow for some individual pursuits. Except for the Koala Hospital and the Sunset Cruise (booked) the following are our current suggestions:
Monday:
Meet outside our motel at 8.10am (departure), for a short drive to the Koala Hospital
Koala Hospital, 8.30am
Lord Street Port Macquarie. Whilst an early start for some, this is the best time to visit the hospital as it’s feeding time.
As a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility, the Koala Hospital has been helping rescue and rehabilitate koalas since 1973.The facility is run by Koala Conservation Australia Limited, which is a not-for-profit organisation that includes approximately 200 volunteers dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating koalas and conserving and restoring their natural habitats.
The Koala Hospital consists of exhibit enclosures, a treatment clinic, intensive care units and rehabilitation yards, many of which have trees for koalas to learn to climb as part of the rehabilitation process. There is also a Koalaseum - a museum for Koalas which provides information on koala evolution and biology and interactive displays so visitors can touch koala fur or look down a microscope at koala poos (scat). As well as the Koalaseum, there is a gift shop, where you can pick up a souvenir or gift for a friend or family member.
We have booked an enjoyable, personalised 45-minute tour with an experienced, knowledgeable guide. https://koalahospital.org.au/
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre; about 10.00am
159 Pacific Dr, Port Macquarie. The Centre is the ideal place to begin your fascinating journey through Sea Acres National Park. Eco-displays provide a wealth of information about local Aboriginal culture and the surrounding rainforest environment. There are also regular exhibitions of works by local artists, and a gift shop stocking a range of unique environmental products, gifts, crafts, educational toys and games.
Stretch your legs along 1.3km Rainforest boardwalk, or the adjacent Rainforest Café (lunch option), nestled amidst the Bangalow palms. Entry fee $7.00 seniors.
Lighthouse Beach and Tacking Point Lighthouse, about 1.00pm
Lighthouse Rd, Port Macquarie. Lighthouse Beach is seven kilometres south of Port Macquarie and is a nine-kilometre stretch of south-east facing sand heading to Lake Cathie. It is a favourite surf beach offering protection from the summer north easterlies.
Visit the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse with was built in 1879 which is the final stop along the 3.9km scenic coastal walk, enjoy the viewing platform for a stunning view along the coastline, it is also a great vantage point for whale watching from May to November.
Sunset River Cruise; 3.30 to 5.30pm
Town Wharf (end of Clarance Street, Port Macquarie). Cruise the beautiful Hastings River, on board the Port AdVenture and enjoy an unforgettable sunset.
Cruise the canals and watch as the magic of changing colours happens as the sun slowly sets beyond the region’s hinterland. https://cruiseportmacquarie.com.au/
Tuesday, for those wish to team up, we suggest meeting outside our motel at 8.30am for anyone or more of the following:
Other
Any suggestions or questions please give me a call.
The Port Macquarie region is a stunning destination in its own right, luring retirees, families, couples and those looking for a nature-based holiday. Blessed with sparkling beaches lined with pockets of rainforest, the area is also a significant habitat for koalas, with the world-famous Koala Hospital caring for the lovable endangered creatures.
Port Macquarie is the largest town in the region and bursting with restaurants, beaches, fun attractions and accommodation. To the south, the villages of North Haven, Laurieton and Kendall sit along the banks of the Camden Haven River. Further inland, Wauchope is a former timber town that’s now the gateway to lush rainforests.
A getaway in the Port Macquarie area means getting outside and enjoying the bounty of nature. From spotting dolphins from the painted break wall on the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, to whale watching cruises or strolling the boardwalk of the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre, the unspoiled beauty of the region will dazzle. Further inland, hike the Laurieton track or visit World Heritage-listed Willi Willi National Park.
With so many attractions we have tried to identify those with broader appeal for Monday and leave Tuesday free to allow for some individual pursuits. Except for the Koala Hospital and the Sunset Cruise (booked) the following are our current suggestions:
Monday:
Meet outside our motel at 8.10am (departure), for a short drive to the Koala Hospital
Koala Hospital, 8.30am
Lord Street Port Macquarie. Whilst an early start for some, this is the best time to visit the hospital as it’s feeding time.
As a licensed wildlife rehabilitation facility, the Koala Hospital has been helping rescue and rehabilitate koalas since 1973.The facility is run by Koala Conservation Australia Limited, which is a not-for-profit organisation that includes approximately 200 volunteers dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating koalas and conserving and restoring their natural habitats.
The Koala Hospital consists of exhibit enclosures, a treatment clinic, intensive care units and rehabilitation yards, many of which have trees for koalas to learn to climb as part of the rehabilitation process. There is also a Koalaseum - a museum for Koalas which provides information on koala evolution and biology and interactive displays so visitors can touch koala fur or look down a microscope at koala poos (scat). As well as the Koalaseum, there is a gift shop, where you can pick up a souvenir or gift for a friend or family member.
We have booked an enjoyable, personalised 45-minute tour with an experienced, knowledgeable guide. https://koalahospital.org.au/
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre; about 10.00am
159 Pacific Dr, Port Macquarie. The Centre is the ideal place to begin your fascinating journey through Sea Acres National Park. Eco-displays provide a wealth of information about local Aboriginal culture and the surrounding rainforest environment. There are also regular exhibitions of works by local artists, and a gift shop stocking a range of unique environmental products, gifts, crafts, educational toys and games.
Stretch your legs along 1.3km Rainforest boardwalk, or the adjacent Rainforest Café (lunch option), nestled amidst the Bangalow palms. Entry fee $7.00 seniors.
Lighthouse Beach and Tacking Point Lighthouse, about 1.00pm
Lighthouse Rd, Port Macquarie. Lighthouse Beach is seven kilometres south of Port Macquarie and is a nine-kilometre stretch of south-east facing sand heading to Lake Cathie. It is a favourite surf beach offering protection from the summer north easterlies.
Visit the historic Tacking Point Lighthouse with was built in 1879 which is the final stop along the 3.9km scenic coastal walk, enjoy the viewing platform for a stunning view along the coastline, it is also a great vantage point for whale watching from May to November.
Sunset River Cruise; 3.30 to 5.30pm
Town Wharf (end of Clarance Street, Port Macquarie). Cruise the beautiful Hastings River, on board the Port AdVenture and enjoy an unforgettable sunset.
Cruise the canals and watch as the magic of changing colours happens as the sun slowly sets beyond the region’s hinterland. https://cruiseportmacquarie.com.au/
- Includes afternoon tea / snacks.
- Licensed bar on board
Tuesday, for those wish to team up, we suggest meeting outside our motel at 8.30am for anyone or more of the following:
- A very scenic 90 minute, 80km return drive (excluding stops) south of Port Macquarie to Laurieton that’s takes in:
- Bonny Hills, provide some of the most spectacular coastal views in the region, looking over some 14 kilometers of pristine beaches. The old wood fishing shacks of the past are long gone, replaced by homes and holiday parks with million-dollar views
- Lake Cathie (pronounced 'cat-eye') large saltwater lake is the second-largest estuarine salt march area in New South Wales. When it's opened to the sea the warm shallow waters are ideal for swimming. Venture up to the northern headland where a fantastic forest walk has been established, with a viewing platform that offers fabulous views across the lake and out to the ocean
- North Haven, sits at the mouth of the Camden Haven Inlet, surrounded by beautiful waterways, gorgeous beaches and rugged wilderness
- Laurieton is all about views to die for. Drive or take the challenging 3km Laurieton Track to the scenic summit of North Brother Mountain. Enjoy views from Port Macquarie to Diamond Head from the Perpendicular Point Walking Track, set above pretty Pilot Beach in the Kattang Nature Reserve, where wildflowers carpet the ground in spring
- The Fisherman’s Co-Op (lunch option) is great place to taste the delights of the Mid-north Coast. Situated by the Camden Haven River, it offers on-site dining and if more spacious room is desired, there is an excellent park a short distance along the river
- Ellenborough Falls, Ellenborough Falls Rd, Elands. At 200 metres, it is one the tallest single drop waterfall in New South Wales and amongst the tallest in the southern hemisphere. About a 3 hour, 170km round trip, via Wauchope from Port Mac. Great scenic drive and local café. Suggest one for the morning and add one or more of the following for the afternoon.
- Another relaxing short drive could be achieved by combining two or three of the following:
- Ricardoes Tomatoes & Strawberries, 221 Blackmans Point Rd, Blackmans Point, is just ten minutes from Port. Pick your own tomatoes and strawberries if in season. Also has a nice café for coffee and lunch. Can also buy preserves relishes and lots of other goodies. http://www.ricardoes.com/
- Cassegrain Winery, 10 Winery Dr, Port Macquarie, their Cellar Door is surrounded by a working winery providing guests the unique opportunity to experience a tour through the winery to see where and how the magic happens. Top this off with an exclusive tasting of Cassegrain’s award winning wines including their very exciting new releases. https://www.cassegrainwines.com.au/
- Billabong Zoo, 61 Billabong Dr, Port Macquarie, you can pat, feed, hold, hear and see over 80 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. We care for over 200 animals in this friendly 10-acre Koala and Wildlife Park. Open 9.00 to 5.00, seven days https://www.billabongzoo.com.au/
- In or near town, which are an option for Sunday afternoon, except for the museum which is closed Sundays:
- Breakwall Walk, stop at the Little Shack for Coffee and include the adjacent Town Beach
- Award winning Port Macquarie Museum tells the stories of those who have come before us and what makes the town special, from its beginnings as a British penal settlement through to the popular tourist and sea-change destination of today.0pen 10.00 to 4.00. Adults $5.00
- Town Green Inn, a great spot on the river for lunch and/or a drink
Other
Any suggestions or questions please give me a call.
Leader - Max Henderson
GARDENING GROUP - March 2023
During March, our Gardening Group met for a long brunch at Flower Power. Afterwards some Garden Members braved the heat and strolled around Flower Power to buy some garden supplies.
Our next Gardening Group day will be on Thursday 13 April at Cumberland State Forest. A chance to experience the quietness of the forest and see it before the Mirvac development starts nextdoor on the old IBM site.
We will meet at 10am outside the Plants Plus Cumberland Forest Garden Centre which is located within the Cumberland State Forest at 95 Castle Hill Road, West Pennant Hills. After you have turned off Castle Hill road into the Forest, continue driving down to the Visitor Centre. It’s further than you think. Parking is available at the Visitor Centre. Please wear closed in shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
Garden group members can either walk around the Sensory Trail (350metres long easy grade walk) or stroll around the Plants Plus nursery. We will then head to the Grind and Bloom Café, 8/35 Coonara Ave, West Pennant Hills for a late morning tea.
Many thanks to Sue Small and Lorenza Powyer for their past great work as the Garden Group Leaders. Please let Julie Stinson know if you’ll be attending the day to enable the table booking to be made.
Our next Gardening Group day will be on Thursday 13 April at Cumberland State Forest. A chance to experience the quietness of the forest and see it before the Mirvac development starts nextdoor on the old IBM site.
We will meet at 10am outside the Plants Plus Cumberland Forest Garden Centre which is located within the Cumberland State Forest at 95 Castle Hill Road, West Pennant Hills. After you have turned off Castle Hill road into the Forest, continue driving down to the Visitor Centre. It’s further than you think. Parking is available at the Visitor Centre. Please wear closed in shoes, a hat and sunscreen.
Garden group members can either walk around the Sensory Trail (350metres long easy grade walk) or stroll around the Plants Plus nursery. We will then head to the Grind and Bloom Café, 8/35 Coonara Ave, West Pennant Hills for a late morning tea.
Many thanks to Sue Small and Lorenza Powyer for their past great work as the Garden Group Leaders. Please let Julie Stinson know if you’ll be attending the day to enable the table booking to be made.
Leaders - Julie Stinson
Golf Report March 2023 - The Bunker News
Hola!
This month our game was played at Muirfield Golf Club, with 11 members playing 9 holes. Great weather and good company. The group then went to Baulkham Hills Sporting Club for a beverage and light lunch, a great end to a great day.
There is no golf for April as the first Friday of the month is Good Friday.
I have no confirmed bookings for May 2023 and will advise ASAP. Emails will be sent out for player acceptance or decline so please add to your calendar.
Yours in Fun, Fellowship & Friendship
Leader - Terry Ridge & Jeff Swan
I have no confirmed bookings for May 2023 and will advise ASAP. Emails will be sent out for player acceptance or decline so please add to your calendar.
Yours in Fun, Fellowship & Friendship
Leader - Terry Ridge & Jeff Swan
Investment Group - March 2023
Probus Investment Group met on Tuesday 21st February. Thank you to Tony Coote who did a presentation and led the discussion on “Investing in Primary Production and Manufacturing in Australia”. After exercising our minds, we all enjoyed a slice of homemade Dorset Apple Cake and a tea or coffee.
The April Meeting will be held Tuesday 18th April at 10am.
Leader - David Antonjuk
Probus Investment Group met on Tuesday 21st February. Thank you to Tony Coote who did a presentation and led the discussion on “Investing in Primary Production and Manufacturing in Australia”. After exercising our minds, we all enjoyed a slice of homemade Dorset Apple Cake and a tea or coffee.
The April Meeting will be held Tuesday 18th April at 10am.
Leader - David Antonjuk
Men's Club - March 2023
SAVE THE DATE - 5th April for a great afternoon!
The next activity for Men’s Club is “Virtual Golf” which has been organised by John Sanders.
The aim of Virtual Golf is to give you the ultimate golf experience in the comfort of luxurious and air conditioned surroundings.
V18 GOLF is located at Unit 18, 242A New Line Rd, Dural.
Meet there at 2pm on Wednesday 5th April. Cost is $10 per person.
Come and enjoy some fun and maybe improve your golf swing!
Leader - Rene Beutler
Mixed Social Coffee Morning
The Mixed Social Coffee Morning meets last Monday of the Month.
Our next coffee morning is . . .
Monday 24th April at 10.30am
Meet in the Bistro Area, Castle Hill RSL
All members are welcome. Please come along and enjoy a chat.
Below are photos of March's Coffee morning with 12 members attending
The Mixed Social Coffee Morning meets last Monday of the Month.
Our next coffee morning is . . .
Monday 24th April at 10.30am
Meet in the Bistro Area, Castle Hill RSL
All members are welcome. Please come along and enjoy a chat.
Below are photos of March's Coffee morning with 12 members attending
Leader- Helen Beutler
Movie Group - March 2023
This month most of our Movie Goers saw 'Fisherman's Friend' (no it wasn't about the cough lozenges), is based on a true story of a group of fishermen who sing in together in the little Cornish seaside village and are spotted by a talent scout who encourages their career as a singing group.
As usual, following the movie we all enjoyed a catch up over lunch at Cosmo Cafe.
Please let John Cauchi know if you'd like to be added to the Movie Group email list.
This month most of our Movie Goers saw 'Fisherman's Friend' (no it wasn't about the cough lozenges), is based on a true story of a group of fishermen who sing in together in the little Cornish seaside village and are spotted by a talent scout who encourages their career as a singing group.
As usual, following the movie we all enjoyed a catch up over lunch at Cosmo Cafe.
Please let John Cauchi know if you'd like to be added to the Movie Group email list.
Leaders – John Cauchi
Photography Group March 2023
The photography group is open to I-Phone, point and shoot and SLR Camera users. The purpose of our group is to improve our skills by learning from each other.
A meeting was held at the Shenstone residence on the 15 March. The focus was on selecting the group’s photo of the year.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.6029089750446741&type=3
Winner was Bain Shenstone’s “Rodeo Clown” and runner up Ian Robert’s “Misty Morning”
We also determined the date for the next outing to the Steve McCurry Icons exhibition
Next Meeting Topics
The next photography meeting theme is “Pet Photography”.
Two photos per photographer can be placed in the folder “Pets” and will be discussed at the next meeting.
We also have the Portrait Folder, which we will also review at the next meeting. There is time to add more portraits.
As usual there will be the Open Folder for other photos that have recently been taken.
A meeting was held at the Shenstone residence on the 15 March. The focus was on selecting the group’s photo of the year.
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=oa.6029089750446741&type=3
Winner was Bain Shenstone’s “Rodeo Clown” and runner up Ian Robert’s “Misty Morning”
We also determined the date for the next outing to the Steve McCurry Icons exhibition
Next Meeting Topics
The next photography meeting theme is “Pet Photography”.
Two photos per photographer can be placed in the folder “Pets” and will be discussed at the next meeting.
We also have the Portrait Folder, which we will also review at the next meeting. There is time to add more portraits.
As usual there will be the Open Folder for other photos that have recently been taken.
We also determined the date for the next outing to the Steve McCurry Icons exhibition
Next Meeting Topics
The next photography meeting theme is “Pet Photography”.
Two photos per photographer can be placed in the folder “Pets” and will be discussed at the next meeting.
We also have the Portrait Folder, which we will also review at the next meeting. There is time to add more portraits.
As usual there will be the Open Folder for other photos that have recently been taken.
Outings
Steve McCurry Icons exhibition 25th May 2023
A photography exhibition of the world famous photographer Steve McCurrey (Afghan girl photo).
The website is https://stevemccurryicons.com/sydney/
Exhibition runs from 12 April to 11 June, at Pier 2/3 Walsh Bay
We will have a group visit followed by lunch on Thursday 29th May. Meeting at the exhibition at 10:30 am.
Steve McCurry Icons exhibition 25th May 2023
A photography exhibition of the world famous photographer Steve McCurrey (Afghan girl photo).
The website is https://stevemccurryicons.com/sydney/
Exhibition runs from 12 April to 11 June, at Pier 2/3 Walsh Bay
We will have a group visit followed by lunch on Thursday 29th May. Meeting at the exhibition at 10:30 am.
Facebook Site
Our Facebook site shows members images and there are references to a wide variety of learning videos and articles that can be looked back on for reference.
The Facebook site is located at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/254025278937219/?ref=group_header
If you would like to see the Facebook site, please put a request in from your Facebook page to join the group. If you are a member of our Probus club you will be granted access, you don’t need to join the photography meetings. There are currently 27 members who access the Facebook site which is about a quarter of the club’s membership.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be on April 19th at the Shenstone residence at 7:30pm.
Our Facebook site shows members images and there are references to a wide variety of learning videos and articles that can be looked back on for reference.
The Facebook site is located at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/254025278937219/?ref=group_header
If you would like to see the Facebook site, please put a request in from your Facebook page to join the group. If you are a member of our Probus club you will be granted access, you don’t need to join the photography meetings. There are currently 27 members who access the Facebook site which is about a quarter of the club’s membership.
Next Meeting
Our next meeting will be on April 19th at the Shenstone residence at 7:30pm.
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone
TEN PIN BOWLING REPORT - March 2023
Ten Pin Bowling took place last Friday.
The girls had a very close battle with Toni & Bev sharing the honours over the two games played. On the boys side David, as we have come to expect, came out on top with Ken the closest challenger.
With the Easter school holidays falling in April the next Ten Pin Bowling activity will be on Friday, 19 May 2023.
If you are not in the aforementioned category and would like to play, please give me a call on 0418 497 211.
Leader - Doug Matthews
Tennis Group Report- March 2023
So far this month we have dealt with players traveling and wet weather but we continue, playing with 3 as often as we can. We still enjoy our games but more players in the group would be great. It would give us flexibility to still have a full turnout when others cannot make it.
You do not have to be very skilled, just willing to have a go and have fun in the process.
We meet Monday and Wednesday at 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill.
Leader - Bob Davison
Live Theatre March 2023
Tina -The Tina Turner Musical (Now Fully allocated)
When: Wednesday 28 June 2023 at 7:30pm
Where: The Theatre Royal Sydney
Tickets are now fully costed at $142 each (inclusive of bus travel) payable by mid-April 2023 as follows:
Please pay into Activities account
BSB – 633 000 Acc. No. – 167 288 844 plus Surname & Tina
Those members who have secured a place by registering their interest earlier have now been advised in writing and payment requested accordingly.
Funny Money (Presented by Castle Hill Players)
When: Wednesday 19 April 2023 at 8:00pm
Where: Pavilion Theatre, Castle Hill Showground
We have 12 members attending this production, thank-you for your prompt responses! Those members who have secured a place by registering their interest earlier have now been advised in writing and payment requested accordingly.
Tickets are t $22 each payable by mid-April 2023 as follows:
Please pay into Activities account
BSB – 633 000 Acc. No. – 167 288 844 plus Surname & Funny
The Mouse Trap (Now Fully allocated)
When: Tuesday 20 June, at 7:00pm
Where: Riverside Theatre Parramatta
This is a tour by the West End cast of the world’s longest running production.
We have 22 members attending, and again, thank-you once again for your tremendous support and prompt reply!! Those members who have secured a place by registering their interest earlier have now been advised in writing and payment requested accordingly.
Tickets are $80 each payable by Friday 31 March 2023 as follows:
Please pay into Activities account
BSB – 633 000 Acc. No. – 167 288 844 plus Surname & Mousetrap
Stay safe,
Tina -The Tina Turner Musical (Now Fully allocated)
When: Wednesday 28 June 2023 at 7:30pm
Where: The Theatre Royal Sydney
Tickets are now fully costed at $142 each (inclusive of bus travel) payable by mid-April 2023 as follows:
Please pay into Activities account
BSB – 633 000 Acc. No. – 167 288 844 plus Surname & Tina
Those members who have secured a place by registering their interest earlier have now been advised in writing and payment requested accordingly.
Funny Money (Presented by Castle Hill Players)
When: Wednesday 19 April 2023 at 8:00pm
Where: Pavilion Theatre, Castle Hill Showground
We have 12 members attending this production, thank-you for your prompt responses! Those members who have secured a place by registering their interest earlier have now been advised in writing and payment requested accordingly.
Tickets are t $22 each payable by mid-April 2023 as follows:
Please pay into Activities account
BSB – 633 000 Acc. No. – 167 288 844 plus Surname & Funny
The Mouse Trap (Now Fully allocated)
When: Tuesday 20 June, at 7:00pm
Where: Riverside Theatre Parramatta
This is a tour by the West End cast of the world’s longest running production.
We have 22 members attending, and again, thank-you once again for your tremendous support and prompt reply!! Those members who have secured a place by registering their interest earlier have now been advised in writing and payment requested accordingly.
Tickets are $80 each payable by Friday 31 March 2023 as follows:
Please pay into Activities account
BSB – 633 000 Acc. No. – 167 288 844 plus Surname & Mousetrap
Stay safe,
Leader - Bruce Bartle
Walking - March 2023
There has been no walk so far in the month of March, it will in fact occur March 28th around Middle Head.
The walk for April will be held on April 11, the day after the Easter weekend, please mark your calenders. An email will be sent to provide the details.
There has been no walk so far in the month of March, it will in fact occur March 28th around Middle Head.
The walk for April will be held on April 11, the day after the Easter weekend, please mark your calenders. An email will be sent to provide the details.
Leader - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson
Wine & Cheese March 2022
A select group of 16 people gathered together at Ken and Toni Smith’s apartment for our Wine and Cheese night on the10th March. It was a warm evening but we were able to sit outside on their balcony and enjoy good food, conversation and of course, beverage of choice.
Next month we will gather at Bev and Enio Dona’s house on Friday 14th April.
A select group of 16 people gathered together at Ken and Toni Smith’s apartment for our Wine and Cheese night on the10th March. It was a warm evening but we were able to sit outside on their balcony and enjoy good food, conversation and of course, beverage of choice.
Next month we will gather at Bev and Enio Dona’s house on Friday 14th April.
Leader Julie Shenstone & Susan Antonjuk
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.
Newsletter Editor: Enio Dona onhalf of Andrew Little
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