President's Report
President’s Report - October 2023
I’d like to thank Rosemary our Vice President for filling in for me while David and I were away overseas visiting Italy for 6 weeks. We had an amazing time and many memories made. The jet lag is a killer coming home! Finally starting to feel back to normal.
From all reports everything has been running smoothly. We had a good turnout at the last General Meeting where our guest speaker Chief Inspector Gary Raymond OAM [Retired] gave a very interesting talk on his life in the Police Force.
At this month’s General Meeting we will be officially inducting 5 new members, hopefully the other 4 will follow in November. Each new member’s sponsor will give a very brief introduction. Please make our new members feel welcome and introduce yourself.
Don’t forget October is “Probus Month” and there is a picnic at Heritage Park starting from 10am arranged by the Pennant Hills Combined Probus Club. If the weather is fine a picnic in the park with friends would be a great opportunity to meet members from other clubs.
The recent warm weather has been great for getting out and about and enjoying the activities organized by our Activity Leaders. Our upcoming trip to Cronulla is fast approaching and I know many of you are looking forward to an action packed few days. Thank you to Barry for putting so much time and effort into organizing this trip away.
Please make sure you have put aside Wednesday 20th December for our Annual Christmas lunch. Our venue is the Castle Hill Country Club where we celebrated last year. The venue provides us with amazing views out over the golf course. More details will be provided shortly.
Enjoy yourselves over the coming month, remembering to share the fun, friendship and fellowship with your fellow club members.
Cathy Turner
President
I’d like to thank Rosemary our Vice President for filling in for me while David and I were away overseas visiting Italy for 6 weeks. We had an amazing time and many memories made. The jet lag is a killer coming home! Finally starting to feel back to normal.
From all reports everything has been running smoothly. We had a good turnout at the last General Meeting where our guest speaker Chief Inspector Gary Raymond OAM [Retired] gave a very interesting talk on his life in the Police Force.
At this month’s General Meeting we will be officially inducting 5 new members, hopefully the other 4 will follow in November. Each new member’s sponsor will give a very brief introduction. Please make our new members feel welcome and introduce yourself.
Don’t forget October is “Probus Month” and there is a picnic at Heritage Park starting from 10am arranged by the Pennant Hills Combined Probus Club. If the weather is fine a picnic in the park with friends would be a great opportunity to meet members from other clubs.
The recent warm weather has been great for getting out and about and enjoying the activities organized by our Activity Leaders. Our upcoming trip to Cronulla is fast approaching and I know many of you are looking forward to an action packed few days. Thank you to Barry for putting so much time and effort into organizing this trip away.
Please make sure you have put aside Wednesday 20th December for our Annual Christmas lunch. Our venue is the Castle Hill Country Club where we celebrated last year. The venue provides us with amazing views out over the golf course. More details will be provided shortly.
Enjoy yourselves over the coming month, remembering to share the fun, friendship and fellowship with your fellow club members.
Cathy Turner
President
Secretarial
Correspondence In
Correspondence Out
- Email from PSPL regarding the Probus Club Constitutional Review, which is being discussed by the Management Committee.
Correspondence Out
- None
Bev Watson
Details of the Probus Member Benefit Scheme are at:
www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/members_offers_member_benefits_scheme (Cntl click on link)
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
Thanks to Lynne Henderson who did a great job in looking after the membership responsibilities in my absence for the past two months.
We will have formal inductions for five of our new members in the upcoming October monthly meeting, with the remaining four to be inducted soon thereafter - please continue to make them all feel welcome.
We will have formal inductions for five of our new members in the upcoming October monthly meeting, with the remaining four to be inducted soon thereafter - please continue to make them all feel welcome.
Just a reminder of our Club policies for attendance at meetings and activities.
Paul Day – Membership Officer
- 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.
Paul Day – Membership Officer
Welfare
WELFARE REPORT October 2023
As Christmas approaches our time becomes precious and many things always seem to need doing and be organized. Give yourself time to enjoy your outings and not become overloaded. If you take on too much you don’t really enjoy the important things in life. This is a time to start reflecting on the year just gone and start thinking about the next 12 months. It may seem early to mention Christmas but once the 1st of November hits it all seems to hit us before we -know it.
We have had a few hospital trips for some members this month, and all are now doing well. We wish you all speedy recoveries. Please consider a phone call to anyone you know is struggling with their health. It can make a world of difference especially for those living alone.
Please take care when out and about. We had a fall at coffee morning recently. All is ok but if this happens to you, please fill in an accident form and give it to the activity leader so they can lodge it. You never know if something else may come from that fall in the near future. If you are unsure about what to do please talk to your activity leader and they can follow it up.
A special mention to a special lady who has been in hospital for quite some time. We hope to see you at Cronulla and then Norfolk Island. I know you are looking forward to these trips and you deserve to enjoy a few outings after a rough ride. Wishing you well.
Please enjoy the last 2 months of 2023 and stay safe and healthy.
Toni Smith & Ken Smith – Welfare Officers
As Christmas approaches our time becomes precious and many things always seem to need doing and be organized. Give yourself time to enjoy your outings and not become overloaded. If you take on too much you don’t really enjoy the important things in life. This is a time to start reflecting on the year just gone and start thinking about the next 12 months. It may seem early to mention Christmas but once the 1st of November hits it all seems to hit us before we -know it.
We have had a few hospital trips for some members this month, and all are now doing well. We wish you all speedy recoveries. Please consider a phone call to anyone you know is struggling with their health. It can make a world of difference especially for those living alone.
Please take care when out and about. We had a fall at coffee morning recently. All is ok but if this happens to you, please fill in an accident form and give it to the activity leader so they can lodge it. You never know if something else may come from that fall in the near future. If you are unsure about what to do please talk to your activity leader and they can follow it up.
A special mention to a special lady who has been in hospital for quite some time. We hope to see you at Cronulla and then Norfolk Island. I know you are looking forward to these trips and you deserve to enjoy a few outings after a rough ride. Wishing you well.
Please enjoy the last 2 months of 2023 and stay safe and healthy.
Toni Smith & Ken Smith – Welfare Officers
October Guest Speaker - Jacinta Sillince RSPCA NSW
RSPCA NSW – How We Help
Jaz is an Education Officer with RSPCA NSW. She has a strong passion for animal welfare and enjoys teaching people about animals, so they have a greater understanding on the ways to keep them happy, healthy, and safe. Her background is in Zoology and high school biology teaching.
The photo attached is her with her newly adopted RSPCA dog, Maple.
Should anyone wish to donate to the RSPCA they can use the link https://www.rspcansw.org.au/donate/?active_payment_option=once
Probus Guest Speaker Questionnaire | |||||||
Response to meeting handout | 08/23/2023 | ||||||
65 questionnairs handed out | |||||||
35 returned = 54% response rate | |||||||
Some responses may be a couple's combined response | |||||||
Category Popularity | Category Popularity | adding 1 vote to each subcategory when just arts box was ticked | |||||
Votes | % of respondents | Votes | % of respondents | ||||
26 | 74.3 | Historical Talks | 26 | 74.3 | Historical Talks | ||
25 | 71.4 | Travel | 25 | 71.4 | Travel | ||
20 | 57.1 | Health | 20 | 57.1 | Health | ||
20 | 57.1 | Natural World | 20 | 57.1 | Natural World | ||
17 | 48.6 | The Arts | 17 | 48.6 | The Arts | ||
17 | 48.6 | Emergency Services | 21 | 60.0 | Theatre | ||
18 | 51.4 | Information Technology | 20 | 57.1 | Movies | ||
15 | 42.9 | Law | 18 | 51.4 | Photography | ||
16 | 45.7 | Maritime | 17 | 48.6 | Literary | ||
15 | 42.9 | Gardening | 17 | 48.6 | Music | ||
15 | 42.9 | Hobbies | 15 | 42.9 | Painting | ||
16 | 45.7 | Food | 12 | 34.3 | Sculpture | ||
15 | 42.9 | Military | 17 | 48.6 | Emergency Services | ||
15 | 42.9 | Conservation | 18 | 51.4 | Information Technology | ||
14 | 40.0 | Theatre | 15 | 42.9 | Law | ||
14 | 40.0 | Aeronautical | 16 | 45.7 | Maritime | ||
13 | 37.1 | Movies | 15 | 42.9 | Gardening | ||
14 | 40.0 | Sport | 15 | 42.9 | Hobbies | ||
13 | 37.1 | Wine | 16 | 45.7 | Food | ||
12 | 34.3 | Architecture | 15 | 42.9 | Military | ||
12 | 34.3 | Popular Science | 15 | 42.9 | Conservation | ||
11 | 31.4 | Photography | 14 | 40.0 | Aeronautical | ||
9 | 25.7 | Financial | 14 | 40.0 | Sport | ||
9 | 25.7 | Literary | 13 | 37.1 | Wine | ||
9 | 25.7 | Music | 12 | 34.3 | Architecture | ||
8 | 22.9 | Painting | 12 | 34.3 | Popular Science | ||
8 | 22.9 | Engineering | 9 | 25.7 | Financial | ||
7 | 20.0 | Games | 8 | 22.9 | Engineering | ||
6 | 17.1 | GovernmentPolitics | 7 | 20.0 | Games | ||
5 | 14.3 | Sculpture | 5 | 14.3 | GovernmentPolitics | ||
4 | 11.4 | Utilities | 4 | 11.4 | Utilities | ||
Nil | further category suggestions | ||||||
Nil | specific topic suggestions | ||||||
2 respondents re further speakers who will think and later recommend | |||||||
Nil respondents volunteering to speak | |||||||
Categories with >40% votes are viable to pursue | |||||||
Categories <40% will require a major specific interest in a topic | |||||||
Bain Shenstone | |||||||
Guest Speaker Program Coordinator | |||||||
Hi,
The Club is again running a Tree of Joy campaign at both Cherrybrook and Westleigh Shopping Villages.
The trees will be up circa second week of November.
The Club has identified a need for Pamper Packs for Carers.
As an example, one of Charities we assisted last year, issued the following “shopping list”:
Last year we assisted 12+ charities. Admittedly, the other charities requested a lesser proportion of Pamper Packs.
Our Tree of Joy campaign is truly an example of community collaboration. The Club collects near 1,000 gifts from the community.
We are attempting to engage with the district Probus Clubs by suggesting members supply Pamper Packs for Carers.
Elements of the suggested contents are acceptable if budgets cannot stretch to a full pack.
I attach both “Tree of Joy” and “Pamper Pack” flyers.
Would you please place at least the Pamper pack flyer in your Bulletins between now, and end of November.
If your Club agrees to participate, then I (Keith Ball) will attend to collect items on either an “as needs” or “regular” basis.
Supply of a contact name and number to for coordination purposes will assist.
My contact details are below.
I apologise for being seemingly early and reminding you that Christmas is approaching.
To download the PDF of the Pamper Pack flyer click HERE
To download the PDF Tree of Joy flyer click HERE
The Club is again running a Tree of Joy campaign at both Cherrybrook and Westleigh Shopping Villages.
The trees will be up circa second week of November.
The Club has identified a need for Pamper Packs for Carers.
As an example, one of Charities we assisted last year, issued the following “shopping list”:
- 23 Pamper Packs for Single Mums,
- 1 Pamper Pack for an Aunt raising her nephew,
- 9 Pamper Packs for Nannas raising their Grandchildren,
- 2 Pamper Packs for Single Dads,
- 1 Pamper Pack for an uncle raising his sibling’s children,
- Gift for.4 girls aged newborn to 1 Year,
- Gift for 5 boys aged newborn to 1 Year,
- Gift for 4 girls aged 2 to 3 years,
- Gift for 5 boys aged 2 to 3 years,
- Gift for 4 girls aged 4 to 5 years,
- Gift for 2 girls aged 2 to 3 years.
Last year we assisted 12+ charities. Admittedly, the other charities requested a lesser proportion of Pamper Packs.
Our Tree of Joy campaign is truly an example of community collaboration. The Club collects near 1,000 gifts from the community.
We are attempting to engage with the district Probus Clubs by suggesting members supply Pamper Packs for Carers.
Elements of the suggested contents are acceptable if budgets cannot stretch to a full pack.
I attach both “Tree of Joy” and “Pamper Pack” flyers.
Would you please place at least the Pamper pack flyer in your Bulletins between now, and end of November.
If your Club agrees to participate, then I (Keith Ball) will attend to collect items on either an “as needs” or “regular” basis.
Supply of a contact name and number to for coordination purposes will assist.
My contact details are below.
I apologise for being seemingly early and reminding you that Christmas is approaching.
To download the PDF of the Pamper Pack flyer click HERE
To download the PDF Tree of Joy flyer click HERE
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 October Newsletter by Friday -17th November 2023.
Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2023 11
Newsletter Copy Deadline
Please provide your contributions for the October Newsletter by Friday -17th November 2023.
Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2023 11
To go to the Activities Calendar - click HERE!
Click on activity to go straight there!
Activity Group | Leaders |
Book Challenge | Sue Calabrese |
Book Club | Bev Davison |
Cards | David Turner, Ray Heaton |
Cycling | Gerard Siddle, 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 |
Mens Club | Rene Beutler |
Mixed Social Group | Helen Beulter, Hilda Somerfield |
Movies | John Cauchi, Donna Fraser |
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 February to November 2024.
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 February to November 2024.
MOE! Challenge has now started - ‘Move On, Enjoy’
MOE! will run from Mid-March ‘23 to next March ‘24. We have a group challenge of 86 books – one more than what was achieved last year. We have just reached 50! The group will aim to reach the total through each person’s own individual challenge. Still a quiet month with so many travelling.
You can join at any time – just set your own challenge from your starting point – calculate how many you read in a month times the number of months you are in the challenge… +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.
The One Who Got Away by Caroline Overington: A thriller. The author tells the story from the point of view of each character which was enjoyable. Loren has gone from the wrong side of the tracks to a life of riches – stunning home, handsome husband, a fleet of cars and 2 beautiful daughters. Then things go awry when a fellow parent from school hands her a note. Suddenly her whole world is turned upside down with lies, betrayal and scandal. Will the right person be brought to justice or is there one who got away?
Atlas – the story of Pa Salt by Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker: reviewed in the last newsletter – this reader found it interesting, but a bit drawn out and tedious at times. The storylines of the 7 sisters are explained.
Sail Away by Celia Imrie: a bit fantastical at times, but two separate women run into trouble. Suzy Marshall finds work drying up for a 60 year old actress, but then she is offered a plum acting role in Zurich. The show is suddenly cancelled leaving her stranded in Zurich with no money or prospects. She is forced to take a job as an entertainer on a cruise ship.
Amanda Herbert sells her home but her new flat purchase falls through. Her philandering ex-husband and her two self-absorbed adult children aren't any help. She decides to go on a cruise while things are sorted out.
Though they have never met, the two women's lives become entangled with strange characters and some very dodgy dealings, as they move towards finding their confidence in a new world. You want to strangle the characters at times when they can't seem to see fraud right in front of them. Still, some funny moments.
Red War by Vince Flynn: An espionage story about the Russian leader declaring war on the USA. He is dying of brain cancer. He wants to leave his mark in history. What has he got to lose? An interesting read.
Hope to see more of you join
Leader: Sue Calabrese
MOE! will run from Mid-March ‘23 to next March ‘24. We have a group challenge of 86 books – one more than what was achieved last year. We have just reached 50! The group will aim to reach the total through each person’s own individual challenge. Still a quiet month with so many travelling.
You can join at any time – just set your own challenge from your starting point – calculate how many you read in a month times the number of months you are in the challenge… +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.
The One Who Got Away by Caroline Overington: A thriller. The author tells the story from the point of view of each character which was enjoyable. Loren has gone from the wrong side of the tracks to a life of riches – stunning home, handsome husband, a fleet of cars and 2 beautiful daughters. Then things go awry when a fellow parent from school hands her a note. Suddenly her whole world is turned upside down with lies, betrayal and scandal. Will the right person be brought to justice or is there one who got away?
Atlas – the story of Pa Salt by Lucinda Riley and Harry Whittaker: reviewed in the last newsletter – this reader found it interesting, but a bit drawn out and tedious at times. The storylines of the 7 sisters are explained.
Sail Away by Celia Imrie: a bit fantastical at times, but two separate women run into trouble. Suzy Marshall finds work drying up for a 60 year old actress, but then she is offered a plum acting role in Zurich. The show is suddenly cancelled leaving her stranded in Zurich with no money or prospects. She is forced to take a job as an entertainer on a cruise ship.
Amanda Herbert sells her home but her new flat purchase falls through. Her philandering ex-husband and her two self-absorbed adult children aren't any help. She decides to go on a cruise while things are sorted out.
Though they have never met, the two women's lives become entangled with strange characters and some very dodgy dealings, as they move towards finding their confidence in a new world. You want to strangle the characters at times when they can't seem to see fraud right in front of them. Still, some funny moments.
Red War by Vince Flynn: An espionage story about the Russian leader declaring war on the USA. He is dying of brain cancer. He wants to leave his mark in history. What has he got to lose? An interesting read.
Hope to see more of you join
Leader: Sue Calabrese
Book Club Report - October 2023
Our last meeting was held at Rosemary Clarke’s home on Thursday 14th September, where members received our latest book ‘There was still love’ by Favel Parrett.
Our next meeting will be Thursday 26th October at my place, where we will discuss the book and receive our next one.
Leader - Bev Davison
Prague, 1938: Eva flies down the street from her sister. Suddenly a man steps out, a man wearing a hat. Eva runs into him, hits the pavement hard. His hat is in the gutter. His anger slaps Eva, but his hate will change everything, as war forces so many lives into small, brown suitcases.
Prague, 1980: No one sees Ludek. A young boy can slip right under the heavy blanket that covers this city - the fear cannot touch him. Ludek is free. And he sees everything. The world can do what it likes. The world can go to hell for all he cares because Babi is waiting for him in the warm flat. His whole world.
Melbourne, 1980: Mala Li ka's grandma holds her hand as they climb the stairs to their third floor flat. Inside, the smell of warm pipe tobacco and homemade cakes. Here, Mana and Bill have made a life for themselves and their granddaughter. A life imbued with the spirit of Prague and the loved ones left behind.
The author’s deep emotional insight and stellar literary talent shine through in this love letter to the strong women who bind families together, despite dislocation and distance. It is a tender and beautifully told story of memory, family and love. Because there is still love. No matter what
Cards 500 Report for October 2023
Our last cards night was held on 29th September. We had 19 players and 15 for dinner. The club once again was running a CASH give night and the painters were there during the day, so the Dooral room was off limits. The club did, however, set up the tables in the TAB area. But we all made the most of it with plenty of talk and catching up, a coffee and some cake and chocolate flavored vanilla ice cream.
The lucky draw was won by Donna Fraser and Bev Dona, the first of five Club cash draws was won by Toni Smith.
The next cards evening will be on the 20th of October.
Usual details –
Venue The Dural Country Club
Cards start 7pm
Dinner 5.45pm
$5 to play
Email to be sent out about a week beforehand with details for responding if attending cards and or dinner.
Cathy for David
TERRY RIDGE OBO Ray Heaton OBO Cathy for David
Our last cards night was held on 29th September. We had 19 players and 15 for dinner. The club once again was running a CASH give night and the painters were there during the day, so the Dooral room was off limits. The club did, however, set up the tables in the TAB area. But we all made the most of it with plenty of talk and catching up, a coffee and some cake and chocolate flavored vanilla ice cream.
The lucky draw was won by Donna Fraser and Bev Dona, the first of five Club cash draws was won by Toni Smith.
The next cards evening will be on the 20th of October.
Usual details –
Venue The Dural Country Club
Cards start 7pm
Dinner 5.45pm
$5 to play
Email to be sent out about a week beforehand with details for responding if attending cards and or dinner.
Cathy for David
TERRY RIDGE OBO Ray Heaton OBO Cathy for David
Cycling Group: October 2023
The October cycling ride commenced at the Waterview Restaurant carpark in Bicentennial Park, with a loop around “Lake Belvedere” before riding along Powells Creek to the new crossover bridge. The group then headed north back along Powells Creek and through the Badu Mangroves for a bit of bird watching.
Crossing over Bennelong Parkway, the group did a loop around the Bay Marker Hill in Wentworth Common and then followed Haslems Creek up to Haslems Pier (opposite Olympic Boulevard) for more bird watching. A quick detour then followed, to view the old Homebush brick pit, before heading back to Bicentennial Park for a well earned coffee and refreshments.
The next proposed ride, will tour from Bella Vista Metro Station to Rouse Hill and return.
Date: Wednesday 15th November 2023 (To be confirmed pending numbers). Start time: 10.00am
Location: Bella Vista Metro Station forecourt
(Suggest catching the Metro from Cherrybrook Metro Station).
We will stop for a coffee along the way.
Please bring your helmet, water and sunscreen.
Please let me know, if you are interested in joining the ride.
Leaders - Gerard Siddle/Tony Coote
The October cycling ride commenced at the Waterview Restaurant carpark in Bicentennial Park, with a loop around “Lake Belvedere” before riding along Powells Creek to the new crossover bridge. The group then headed north back along Powells Creek and through the Badu Mangroves for a bit of bird watching.
Crossing over Bennelong Parkway, the group did a loop around the Bay Marker Hill in Wentworth Common and then followed Haslems Creek up to Haslems Pier (opposite Olympic Boulevard) for more bird watching. A quick detour then followed, to view the old Homebush brick pit, before heading back to Bicentennial Park for a well earned coffee and refreshments.
The next proposed ride, will tour from Bella Vista Metro Station to Rouse Hill and return.
Date: Wednesday 15th November 2023 (To be confirmed pending numbers). Start time: 10.00am
Location: Bella Vista Metro Station forecourt
(Suggest catching the Metro from Cherrybrook Metro Station).
We will stop for a coffee along the way.
Please bring your helmet, water and sunscreen.
Please let me know, if you are interested in joining the ride.
Leaders - Gerard Siddle/Tony Coote
The People’s House: Sydney Opera House at 50 - Museum of Sydney
Despite the wind and rain, we had a great day out on Tuesday 17th October. We were welcomed at the Museum of Sydney and toured the exhibition celebrating Sydney Opera House at 50. We were able to relive the magic of past performances
and events; explore the Opera House’s architectural details through artwork and 3D models and view photos and posters of productions from 1973. In the theatre short documentaries on the construction and history of the Opera House were
screened on rotation.
We enjoyed lunch at the House Kitchen by the Opera House.
Helen Games
and events; explore the Opera House’s architectural details through artwork and 3D models and view photos and posters of productions from 1973. In the theatre short documentaries on the construction and history of the Opera House were
screened on rotation.
We enjoyed lunch at the House Kitchen by the Opera House.
Helen Games
Leader - Helen Games
October 2023
There is no 'Dining Out' activity for Oct 2023.
Dining Out for November is combined with the Day Out activity. See the poster above for the Nepean Belle Paddlewheeler.
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 February to November 2024.
Leader - Looking For Monthly Leaders
Cronulla - Monday 30 October to Thursday 1 November 2023
MONDAY 30TH October
11.00am Kurnell Whale Watching Platforms
1.00pm Lunch behind visitor centre (bring fold up chairs & drinks.
2.00pm onwards RYDGES check in.
4.30pm onwards CRONULLA RSL BOWLING CLUB
TUESDAY 31ST October
6.30am to 9.00am Breakfast Zimzala or Rydges or other.
10.30am Cruise. Leaves exactly at 10.30am no later. “If not on board bring flippers”
Houseboat to be advised.
7.00pm Yalla Sawa
WEDNESDAY 1st November
7.00am to 9.00am Breakfast Rydges or optional
8.30am, 9.30am, 10.30am or 11.30am Ferry Cronulla to Bundeena. Walk from Bundeena past Bundeena RSL along Jibbon beach past aboriginal rock carvings and nature beach to headland. The distance walked is individually optionalised.
12.00pm onwards Bundeena RSL lunch etc.
7.00pm Sea Level
THURSDAY 2nd November
10.30am Sydney Tram Museum
Please note that the Cronulla trip is now fully booked.
Leader - Barry Wailes
Central Coast NSW – Mon 18 to Thurs 21 March 2024
Now we have sorted our capacity constraints, mainly dining, accommodation and a fabulous Tuesday morning cruise, if anyone else is interested we could possibly accommodate them. However, you need to be quick, please let us (Col or Max) know asap.
The trip currently comprises 37 participants who have reportedly paid their $100pp deposit. The balance of costs will be required by the end of January 2024. In addition to the accommodation (varies dependant on your room selection, generally we all went for the one-bedroom apartments, either hinterland view $657 or ocean/pool view $777 (3 nights) will be the:
The trip can be as active or as lay-back as you want it to be. However, in the spirit of Probus, can everyone can please come together for the:
In future newsletters, we will provide numerous activity and touring options, the majority of which are within 30 minutes of Ettalong Beach.
For example, one optional group tour for Wednesday, starting at Terrigal where you could easily spend 1-2 hours and then work your way back along the beaches and lookouts to Ettalong Beach. Although that day will unfold differently depending what you want to do after Terrigal, a good spot is The Haven (Terrigal) where the Skillion is - a 150m sedimentary rock formation formed in the Triassic Period. There is plenty of parking, fabulous views, a waterfront café and a new level boardwalk connecting it to the adjoining Terrigal beach and shops.
An updated attendance sheet, showing participant names, room/bed preferences and emergency contacts will be at the next meeting. Can you please check all details are correct and sign.
Colin McGowan Max Henderson
The trip currently comprises 37 participants who have reportedly paid their $100pp deposit. The balance of costs will be required by the end of January 2024. In addition to the accommodation (varies dependant on your room selection, generally we all went for the one-bedroom apartments, either hinterland view $657 or ocean/pool view $777 (3 nights) will be the:
- Brisbane Waters Ferry History Cruise, (Tuesday, $45pp) and
- The Thai Space Restaurant (Tuesday, banquet dinner, $40pp).
The trip can be as active or as lay-back as you want it to be. However, in the spirit of Probus, can everyone can please come together for the:
- Brisbane Waters History Cruise, departing from Patonga (9.30am-12 noon), and
- Evening meals
In future newsletters, we will provide numerous activity and touring options, the majority of which are within 30 minutes of Ettalong Beach.
For example, one optional group tour for Wednesday, starting at Terrigal where you could easily spend 1-2 hours and then work your way back along the beaches and lookouts to Ettalong Beach. Although that day will unfold differently depending what you want to do after Terrigal, a good spot is The Haven (Terrigal) where the Skillion is - a 150m sedimentary rock formation formed in the Triassic Period. There is plenty of parking, fabulous views, a waterfront café and a new level boardwalk connecting it to the adjoining Terrigal beach and shops.
An updated attendance sheet, showing participant names, room/bed preferences and emergency contacts will be at the next meeting. Can you please check all details are correct and sign.
Colin McGowan Max Henderson
Norfolk Island – Mon 30 Sep to Mon 7 Oct 2024
Norfolk Island is a very popular trip with limited availability for groups, including late next year. Subsequently due to our numbers exceeding expectations and with only three options available, we selected Monday 30 September to Monday 7 October 2024.
Also, due to the complexities associated with organising this trip we engaged a local travel agent (Ros Savio of ‘ATour’ Travel Service) to put a suitable package together. I recently received a two-page itinerary, which I have emailed to the participants. Basically, the same as the original, amended to reflect our new dates.
All thirty-five of our participants have paid their $300 deposits which was transferred (thanks Michael) to the ‘ATour’ account.
Your respective balances, via two payments (apportioned at airfare and balance) will be payable directly into the ‘ATour’ (not Probus) account as detailed in the itinerary, including T&Cs. Note, as previously advised, prices quoted are current and subject to change for 2024.
Once the airfares are published our agent will be seeking to lock in and will request the airfare component, possibly in the next few weeks. The balance won’t be payable unit about July.
An updated attendance sheet, showing participant names (identification, as per drivers’ licence or passport), room preference (double, twin or single) and emergency contacts will be at our next meeting. Can you please check all details are correct and sign.
Any suggestions or questions, please give me a call.
Also, due to the complexities associated with organising this trip we engaged a local travel agent (Ros Savio of ‘ATour’ Travel Service) to put a suitable package together. I recently received a two-page itinerary, which I have emailed to the participants. Basically, the same as the original, amended to reflect our new dates.
All thirty-five of our participants have paid their $300 deposits which was transferred (thanks Michael) to the ‘ATour’ account.
Your respective balances, via two payments (apportioned at airfare and balance) will be payable directly into the ‘ATour’ (not Probus) account as detailed in the itinerary, including T&Cs. Note, as previously advised, prices quoted are current and subject to change for 2024.
Once the airfares are published our agent will be seeking to lock in and will request the airfare component, possibly in the next few weeks. The balance won’t be payable unit about July.
An updated attendance sheet, showing participant names (identification, as per drivers’ licence or passport), room preference (double, twin or single) and emergency contacts will be at our next meeting. Can you please check all details are correct and sign.
Any suggestions or questions, please give me a call.
Leader - Max Henderson
Gardening Group – October 2023
On Thursday, 12 October, the garden group drove to Blackheath to visit the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens which are managed by the Blue Mountains Rhododendron Society of NSW. Upon arrival we had a delicious Devonshire Tea before strolling around the gardens. The weather was kind to us and the timing was perfect to see the numerous varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas in flower as well as the flowering native plants. The gardens were a spectacular display of colours. We then enjoyed a relaxing lunch on the new terrace at the Blackheath Golf and Community Club. In particular, Alan and Hilda enjoyed their dessert before their main meal.
Our next Gardening Group day will be visiting the:
Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden (formerly known as the Roxborough Rose Garden)
Roxborough Park Road, Baulkham Hills
The rose garden was first established in 1972 and has undergone a major renovation late last year, thanks to joint funding from Council and the Australian Government. The upgrades included improving the stairs and pathways, restoring the fountain, installing a new rose arbour, an irrigation system, and creating a sandstone feature area. There are over 80 different rose species to view.
Date: Thursday 9 November 2023
Time: 10.30am
Lunch: Waves Café (Pending confirmation by the café)
As I will be away in Tasmania, Sue Small and Lorenza Powyer have kindly stepped in to lead the Garden Group event for November.
Garden Group Leader - Julie Stinson
On Thursday, 12 October, the garden group drove to Blackheath to visit the Campbell Rhododendron Gardens which are managed by the Blue Mountains Rhododendron Society of NSW. Upon arrival we had a delicious Devonshire Tea before strolling around the gardens. The weather was kind to us and the timing was perfect to see the numerous varieties of rhododendrons and azaleas in flower as well as the flowering native plants. The gardens were a spectacular display of colours. We then enjoyed a relaxing lunch on the new terrace at the Blackheath Golf and Community Club. In particular, Alan and Hilda enjoyed their dessert before their main meal.
Our next Gardening Group day will be visiting the:
Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden (formerly known as the Roxborough Rose Garden)
Roxborough Park Road, Baulkham Hills
The rose garden was first established in 1972 and has undergone a major renovation late last year, thanks to joint funding from Council and the Australian Government. The upgrades included improving the stairs and pathways, restoring the fountain, installing a new rose arbour, an irrigation system, and creating a sandstone feature area. There are over 80 different rose species to view.
Date: Thursday 9 November 2023
Time: 10.30am
Lunch: Waves Café (Pending confirmation by the café)
As I will be away in Tasmania, Sue Small and Lorenza Powyer have kindly stepped in to lead the Garden Group event for November.
Garden Group Leader - Julie Stinson
Photos From David Jones Annual Flower Show
Leader - Julie Stinson
Movie Group - October 2023
We meet on the first Tuesday of the month in the foyer area of Event Cinemas on the Piazza side of Castle Towers usually around 9.30am, depending on session times.
As the newsletter comes out earlier than the session times are advertised, we email members who have advised their interest in being on our Movie Emailing List with the relevant movies for the following first Tuesday of the month Movie Day. Also, we usually meet at Cosmo Café after the movie for lunch. When you receive the Movie Email, could you please advise by return email whether or not you will be joining us for lunch after your movie.
Please note that there will now be a Movie Sign-In Sheet placed on the table at the back of the hall at our monthly Probus meetings for members to sign their Intention to Participate at the next movie day. If you would like to be added to the Movie Contact List please add your name and contact details at the bottom of this Intention to Participate sheet and we will arrange to have our Movie Emailing List updated accordingly.
Similarly, if your name is on our list and you would like it removed, could you please draw a line through your name and it will be removed accordingly.
We meet on the first Tuesday of the month in the foyer area of Event Cinemas on the Piazza side of Castle Towers usually around 9.30am, depending on session times.
As the newsletter comes out earlier than the session times are advertised, we email members who have advised their interest in being on our Movie Emailing List with the relevant movies for the following first Tuesday of the month Movie Day. Also, we usually meet at Cosmo Café after the movie for lunch. When you receive the Movie Email, could you please advise by return email whether or not you will be joining us for lunch after your movie.
Please note that there will now be a Movie Sign-In Sheet placed on the table at the back of the hall at our monthly Probus meetings for members to sign their Intention to Participate at the next movie day. If you would like to be added to the Movie Contact List please add your name and contact details at the bottom of this Intention to Participate sheet and we will arrange to have our Movie Emailing List updated accordingly.
Similarly, if your name is on our list and you would like it removed, could you please draw a line through your name and it will be removed accordingly.
Leaders – John Cauchi & Donna Fraser
October Photography Meeting
At our October meeting we had a video on all the elements of composition, who knew there were so many ways to draw people into an image through composition. If you would like to see the video have a look at the Probus Photography website. Refer to the link in this report.
Image of the Month and Facebook Site Banner Image
Each month as a group we choose the image of the month and an image that will fit the photography clubs Facebook site.
Each month as a group we choose the image of the month and an image that will fit the photography clubs Facebook site.
- Image of the Month
- Facebook site Image
The Facebook banner image for this month is Rob Clarke’s minimalistic image of a of tree in the canola fields near Cowra.
Set Subject for November Meeting
Our set subject for November is the use of composition to direct the eye to the subject.
Facebook Site
Our group has a Facebook site, and the link is:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/254025278937219/?ref=group_header
To view the site with all the images “ctrl+left click the mouse button” on the link above.
Next Meeting
The next meeting will be on Wednesday November 22nd the Clarke’s residence at 7:30pm, it is the evening of the Probus general meeting. We changed the date from the first Wednesday of the month due to many Probus photographers being on the Cronulla trip.
Bring your on-camera flash along as there will be a workshop on how to use the flash on your camera to get better images of people and other subjects. Meetings are now scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month.
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone
TEN PIN BOWLING REPORT - September 2023
Ten Pin Bowling took place last Friday with 12 participants.
With an equal split between the sexes we had a mixed competition on each of 3 lanes.
In game 1, David had the high score for the day of 175 & Bev the high score the girls with 135. In game 2, David & Bev were again the winners.
Special mention also goes to John, Eric, Sue & Hilda who kept our winners honest.
The next & final game for the year will take place on Friday, 17 November.
For those who have earlier expressed an interest in playing please come along.
In closing I would like to thank Toni for doing such a great job in my absence last month.
Leader - Doug Matthews
Live Theatre October 2023
Our next theatre party is to Willoughby Theatre Company’s production of “Cats” at The Concourse Theatre Chatswood on Thursday 26 October at 7:30pm which has now also been finalised, we can now confirm that we have secured and advised by email on 17 September, with 13 attendees that evening.
Tickets will be handed out at our October meeting or beforehand if requested.
Stop Press: One ticket has now become available due to an unexpected change in travel plans, if you would like to see this Andrew Lloyd Webber classic please don’t hesitate to contact your Activity Co-ordinators!!
Bruce Bartle
Leader - Bruce Bartle
Walking - October 2023
This month 20 enthusiastic adventurous members explored the bush track leading to the new Pye’s Creek Swing Bridge at Cherrybrook. The track then crossed the creek and we slowly trekked back up to our cars. Coffee/early lunch and a chat at The Burrow Café followed. Please see attached photos.
The next walk is on Tuesday Nov 14th, the 'Railway to River' walk. This is a 3.5km walk from Chatswood Train Station to the Lane Cove River. It passes through streets, gully rainforests, woodland and riverside plant communities. Just follow the signs and discover the beauty of Chatswood and Chatswood West.
Good shoes are required. It is expected to be completed by midday. Dogs are welcome.
Details of the next walk,
Meet: at the Street Level, Castle Hill Metro Station to catch the metro to Chatswood
When: Tuesday Nov 14th 2023
Time: 9 am. NOTE the early time
Walk: From Chatswood Metro station to Lane Cove River,
Parking: In the Towers if you have 4 hours free parking, otherwise off street parking around Castle Hill
Coffee: Coffee stop at Chatswood.
Toilets: Toilets available at each metro station before & at end of walk.
Lunch: TBA, will advise by email
Photos from the walk on Tuesday
Leader - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson
Wine & Cheese October 2023
The October Wine and Cheese evening was hosted by Rob and Rosemary Clarke. We had a great attendance with over 30 people enjoying the warm spring evening outside on their terrace with lively conversation and great food and drink.
Novembers W & C will be on the 10th November at the Alan & Hilda Somerfield residence.
The October Wine and Cheese evening was hosted by Rob and Rosemary Clarke. We had a great attendance with over 30 people enjoying the warm spring evening outside on their terrace with lively conversation and great food and drink.
Novembers W & C will be on the 10th November at the Alan & Hilda Somerfield residence.
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
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