President's Report
President’s Report - March 2024
Hello Everyone
Another busy month packed with lots of activities to keep us busy.
Over 40 of us have just returned from a fabulous 3 days at Ettalong staying at the Mantra.
Colin McGowan put together a wonderful itinerary and you could do as little, or a lot, of sightseeing, walking, swimming, shopping, eating and drinking to name a few activities! We came together each evening to share a meal and discuss our adventures, purchases or food sensations experienced during the day. Our last evening after finishing dinner we had a small presentation for Colin and Max to thank them for the time and effort they put in to make our time away so memorable! Thank you!
We also got to celebrate Hilda’s birthday with a cake and the owner of the restaurant singing Happy Birthday! After that we were treated to some great singing and many of us getting up to have a dance. What a great way to finish our stay away!
We have our AGM coming up at the end of this month. Just a reminder that there will not be a Guest speaker as the AGM fills this slot of the General meeting. The AGM signals the end of the Probus year with the new committee taking on their roles from April.
I hope as you read the Annual Report you’ve seen how busy our club has been. With 4 new members on the committee, they had a pretty steep learning curve but I’m proud to say how well they all have taken up the challenge. Our activity leaders have never been busier and I’m sure you all appreciate the effort they all put in to make their activity run well and provide us all with so much pleasure being able to participate and socialize with each other.
Looking forward to seeing as many of you that are able to attend the next General meeting and AGM.
Cathy Turner
President
Hello Everyone
Another busy month packed with lots of activities to keep us busy.
Over 40 of us have just returned from a fabulous 3 days at Ettalong staying at the Mantra.
Colin McGowan put together a wonderful itinerary and you could do as little, or a lot, of sightseeing, walking, swimming, shopping, eating and drinking to name a few activities! We came together each evening to share a meal and discuss our adventures, purchases or food sensations experienced during the day. Our last evening after finishing dinner we had a small presentation for Colin and Max to thank them for the time and effort they put in to make our time away so memorable! Thank you!
We also got to celebrate Hilda’s birthday with a cake and the owner of the restaurant singing Happy Birthday! After that we were treated to some great singing and many of us getting up to have a dance. What a great way to finish our stay away!
We have our AGM coming up at the end of this month. Just a reminder that there will not be a Guest speaker as the AGM fills this slot of the General meeting. The AGM signals the end of the Probus year with the new committee taking on their roles from April.
I hope as you read the Annual Report you’ve seen how busy our club has been. With 4 new members on the committee, they had a pretty steep learning curve but I’m proud to say how well they all have taken up the challenge. Our activity leaders have never been busier and I’m sure you all appreciate the effort they all put in to make their activity run well and provide us all with so much pleasure being able to participate and socialize with each other.
Looking forward to seeing as many of you that are able to attend the next General meeting and AGM.
Cathy Turner
President
Secretarial
Correspondence In
- Email from PSPL asking for expressions of interest for applying to be their Treasurer for the next 3 years
- 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
TREASURER S REPORT | For the Month ending 29 February 2024 | ||
GENERAL ACCOUNT | |||
Opening cash balance | 1 February 2024 | $1,143.48 | |
Interest | $0.01 | ||
Deposits | 0 | Annual dues and joining fees received | |
$0.00 | |||
Expenses | 0 | PSPL Capitation fees / Fair Trading | |
$(407.00) | Admin costs / Website Fees | ||
$(130.99) | Speaker Costs / Welfare | ||
$(139.25) | Hornsby Council venue hire | ||
$0.00 | Morning teas | ||
$0.00 | Transfers to / (from) Activity A/c | ||
$0.00 | New member costs | ||
$(677.24) | |||
Closing cash balance | 29 February 2024 | $466.25 | |
ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT | |||
Opening cash balance | 1 February 2024 | $27,845.53 | |
Interest | $22.17 | ||
Deposits | 94.00 | Ettalong | |
7190 | Scenic Rim | ||
$0.00 | Norfolk Island | ||
$0.00 | Cards 500 | ||
$0.00 | Brooklyn Postie cruise | ||
$69.00 | Literary Lunch | ||
$162.00 | PHIVE | ||
$2,755.00 | & Juliet | ||
$455.00 | Jersey Boyys | ||
$392.00 | $11,117.00 | School of Rock | |
Deposits to be identified | $0.00 | ||
Payments | $(9,440.00) | Ettalong | |
$0.00 | Scenic Rim | ||
$0.00 | Norfolk Island | ||
$0.00 | Cards 500 | ||
$0.00 | Brooklyn Postie cruise | ||
$(345.00) | Literary Lunch | ||
$0.00 | $(9,785.00) | PHIVE | |
Closing cash balance | 29 February 2024 | $29,199.70 | |
Open Activities | Balance | ||
Ettalong | $12,085.00 | ||
Scenic Rim | $10,734.00 | ||
Norfolk Island | $0.00 | ||
Cards 500 | $190.00 | ||
Brooklyn Postie cruise | $2,255.00 | ||
PHIVE | $162.00 | ||
& Juliet | $2,755.00 | ||
Jersey Boys | $455.00 | ||
School of Rock | $392.00 | ||
$29,028.00 | |||
Add: | |||
Activities surplus | $171.70 | ||
Bank balance | $29,199.70 | ||
TERM DEPOSIT | |||
The Term Deposit was rolled over in July at a value of $5,000.00, and has earned $59.21 this year, | |||
at current interest rate of 4.75% p.a. | |||
INTEREST | |||
For this year, $38.82 has been received as interest General Account $0.02, Activities Account $38.80. | |||
ACTIVITY SURPLUS | |||
The Activity Surplus currently stands at $171.70. | |||
Michael Stinson | |||
Treasurer | 29 February 2024 | ||
Michael Stinson
Treasurer
Treasurer
Membership
Membership March 2024
Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings to make it easier for all our new members to get to know all the friendly faces in our Club.
Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings to make it easier for all our new members to get to know all the friendly faces in our Club.
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.
Welfare
WELFARE REPORT March 2024
Good morning to you all.
I have had no reports this month of any illnesses. I do hope everyone is having a good month and keeps on keeping on towards Easter.
Enjoy your Easter break with family and friends and stay safe and healthy.
I won’t make the AGM this week but would like to thank the outgoing committee and give a big thank you for all their hard work.
I am home from hospital now after my hip replacement and am doing well. The painkillers are working a treat and I hope to start coming off them in the coming weeks. Thank you to all those for the phone calls and messages. I really appreciate the thoughtfulness behind them. Hope to catch up soon.
Regards
Toni Smith
Welfare Officer
Toni Smith & Ken Smith – Welfare Officers
Good morning to you all.
I have had no reports this month of any illnesses. I do hope everyone is having a good month and keeps on keeping on towards Easter.
Enjoy your Easter break with family and friends and stay safe and healthy.
I won’t make the AGM this week but would like to thank the outgoing committee and give a big thank you for all their hard work.
I am home from hospital now after my hip replacement and am doing well. The painkillers are working a treat and I hope to start coming off them in the coming weeks. Thank you to all those for the phone calls and messages. I really appreciate the thoughtfulness behind them. Hope to catch up soon.
Regards
Toni Smith
Welfare Officer
Toni Smith & Ken Smith – Welfare Officers
March Guest Speaker - None due to AGM
Photos From The Ettalong Trip
(thanks - Max H, Lynne H, Tony C, Barry H, Helen G, Sue H, Andrew L)
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 April 2024 Newsletter by Friday - 19th April 2024.
Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2024 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, 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.
‘The Texted Best Thing’ - TBT! Challenge
MOE! finished with a total of 98 books read between 8 active readers – what a well-read bunch. So now we move into TBT! The Texted Best Thing. It will run from March ‘24 to end February ‘25. Our challenge this time will be to crack the ton and hopefully over. Of course, a few more active readers will help us get to the target so please, consider joining up. Along the way everyone is introduced to potential reading material they otherwise may never have considered reading.
You can still join at any time – just set your own challenge from your starting point. A guide is to calculate how many books you read in a month times the number of months you are in the challenge… +ONE more. Read your own choice of book, post about it, and enjoy the rundowns of the other readers’ books. Search WPH&D PROBUS BOOK CHALLENGE on Facebook. If you wish to join but don’t do Facebook, send me an email and I’ll put it into the page on your behalf.
THE LAST 3 OF MOE:
Echo Lake by Joan Sauer: An author’s Literary Lunch led to this book. Rose discovers an undeveloped photo film buried in her garden. The woman on the film has been missing for 6 years. Then the former owner of Rose’s house is murdered – is there a link to the disappearance? A few romantic twists, lots of unaccompanied walks into the NSW southern highland bush (no thought of bush safety here), lots of musings about who could have done it, and eventually the murders and the mystery of 3 dead women – yep, 3 – are solved and resolved. Very exciting towards the end.
The Sun Sister by Lucinda Riley: No 6 in the series, and very interesting read. Set in America and Africa this time, moving between Manhattan and the sweeping plains of Africa. Reviewed earlier
Inheritance by Nora Roberts: One of the author’s best – very intriguing. You just don’t know in what direction it will go next. Book 1 in the Lost Bride Trilogy.
AND NOW FOR TBT – a total of 9 so far:
Elizabeth & Elizabeth by Sue Williams: What a great book! Thoroughly recommend it. Elizabeth Macquarie arrives in Sydney with her husband, the new governor Lachlan Macquarie. She is looking forward to re-meeting Elizabeth Macarthur, credited with creating Australia’s wool industry. John Macarthur is of course a dangerous enemy of the establishment. The friendship that develops between the two Elizabeths is remarkable, starting out a little cool, but developing into a lifelong bond of friendship and loyalty even after the Macquaries return to England. The outright arrogance and entitlement of the local aristocracy was truly appalling and bound to be a catalyst to thwarting all the reforms that Macquarie was setting in place. They could be totally evil when it came to looking after their own back – even those of the Church.
Galileo’s Daughter by Dava Sobel: Traces Galileo’s life through a series of letters written to him from one of his daughters. The book highlights his ongoing struggles with the Church when he attempts to replace long held (and incorrect) beliefs about the solar system and other physical phenomena. Quite a few technical tems and complicated names but still a tribute to his genius.
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger: an enjoyable read but a bit predictable. Well written and the characters were well described.
The Other Women by Emma Flint: Two women who would never have met are connected for ever. Beatrice is an orphan, unmarried and childless. She starts to shape a new life for herself in the city. Just as it starts to settle, a fleeting encounter threatens to ruin everything. Kate is an ordinary wife and mother. From the outside all appears as a normal family. Then one day two policemen knock on her door. The life she has created is now threatened.
I will Find You by Harlan Coben: An enjoyable, typical Harlem Coben read. How far would you go to prove your innocence?
Mr Jelly’s Business by Arthur Upfield: Book 4 in the Insp. Napoleon Bonaparte Mystery Series. Boney agrees to help a colleague resolve the disappearance of George Loftus in the wheat country of Western Australia. He immediately suspects murder but needs the evidence. Loftus’ wife doesn’t seem to mind, and she seems more interested in the handsome hired man now helping to run the property. Mr Jelly, an amateur criminologist, often disappears on secret business. Boney sets out to resolve both mysteries. On the way we get huge doses of the kind of prejudice in these ordinary farming communities, along with acts of incredible acceptance and kindness. Some good bush humour along the way too.
The Kashmir Shawl by Rosie Thomas: After the death of a Mair’s father, she discovers a cashmere shawl while cleaning up. She decides to go to India to trace its origins, as her grandparents were missionaries in India in the early nineteenth century. A good read.
The Unheard by Nicci French: Three year old Poppy witnessed a crime but couldn’t verbalise what she saw. Her mother Tess could tell something was wrong by the way Poppy was behaving. A good read.
Innocent Graves by Peter Robinson: Part of the Insp. Banks Mystery series. A teenage daughter from a wealthy family is found strangled in a church cemetery. The are many twists to the story until the killer is discovered.
Hope to see more of you join. Sue Calabrese
Leader: Sue Calabrese
MOE! finished with a total of 98 books read between 8 active readers – what a well-read bunch. So now we move into TBT! The Texted Best Thing. It will run from March ‘24 to end February ‘25. Our challenge this time will be to crack the ton and hopefully over. Of course, a few more active readers will help us get to the target so please, consider joining up. Along the way everyone is introduced to potential reading material they otherwise may never have considered reading.
You can still join at any time – just set your own challenge from your starting point. A guide is to calculate how many books you read in a month times the number of months you are in the challenge… +ONE more. Read your own choice of book, post about it, and enjoy the rundowns of the other readers’ books. Search WPH&D PROBUS BOOK CHALLENGE on Facebook. If you wish to join but don’t do Facebook, send me an email and I’ll put it into the page on your behalf.
THE LAST 3 OF MOE:
Echo Lake by Joan Sauer: An author’s Literary Lunch led to this book. Rose discovers an undeveloped photo film buried in her garden. The woman on the film has been missing for 6 years. Then the former owner of Rose’s house is murdered – is there a link to the disappearance? A few romantic twists, lots of unaccompanied walks into the NSW southern highland bush (no thought of bush safety here), lots of musings about who could have done it, and eventually the murders and the mystery of 3 dead women – yep, 3 – are solved and resolved. Very exciting towards the end.
The Sun Sister by Lucinda Riley: No 6 in the series, and very interesting read. Set in America and Africa this time, moving between Manhattan and the sweeping plains of Africa. Reviewed earlier
Inheritance by Nora Roberts: One of the author’s best – very intriguing. You just don’t know in what direction it will go next. Book 1 in the Lost Bride Trilogy.
AND NOW FOR TBT – a total of 9 so far:
Elizabeth & Elizabeth by Sue Williams: What a great book! Thoroughly recommend it. Elizabeth Macquarie arrives in Sydney with her husband, the new governor Lachlan Macquarie. She is looking forward to re-meeting Elizabeth Macarthur, credited with creating Australia’s wool industry. John Macarthur is of course a dangerous enemy of the establishment. The friendship that develops between the two Elizabeths is remarkable, starting out a little cool, but developing into a lifelong bond of friendship and loyalty even after the Macquaries return to England. The outright arrogance and entitlement of the local aristocracy was truly appalling and bound to be a catalyst to thwarting all the reforms that Macquarie was setting in place. They could be totally evil when it came to looking after their own back – even those of the Church.
Galileo’s Daughter by Dava Sobel: Traces Galileo’s life through a series of letters written to him from one of his daughters. The book highlights his ongoing struggles with the Church when he attempts to replace long held (and incorrect) beliefs about the solar system and other physical phenomena. Quite a few technical tems and complicated names but still a tribute to his genius.
The River We Remember by William Kent Krueger: an enjoyable read but a bit predictable. Well written and the characters were well described.
The Other Women by Emma Flint: Two women who would never have met are connected for ever. Beatrice is an orphan, unmarried and childless. She starts to shape a new life for herself in the city. Just as it starts to settle, a fleeting encounter threatens to ruin everything. Kate is an ordinary wife and mother. From the outside all appears as a normal family. Then one day two policemen knock on her door. The life she has created is now threatened.
I will Find You by Harlan Coben: An enjoyable, typical Harlem Coben read. How far would you go to prove your innocence?
Mr Jelly’s Business by Arthur Upfield: Book 4 in the Insp. Napoleon Bonaparte Mystery Series. Boney agrees to help a colleague resolve the disappearance of George Loftus in the wheat country of Western Australia. He immediately suspects murder but needs the evidence. Loftus’ wife doesn’t seem to mind, and she seems more interested in the handsome hired man now helping to run the property. Mr Jelly, an amateur criminologist, often disappears on secret business. Boney sets out to resolve both mysteries. On the way we get huge doses of the kind of prejudice in these ordinary farming communities, along with acts of incredible acceptance and kindness. Some good bush humour along the way too.
The Kashmir Shawl by Rosie Thomas: After the death of a Mair’s father, she discovers a cashmere shawl while cleaning up. She decides to go to India to trace its origins, as her grandparents were missionaries in India in the early nineteenth century. A good read.
The Unheard by Nicci French: Three year old Poppy witnessed a crime but couldn’t verbalise what she saw. Her mother Tess could tell something was wrong by the way Poppy was behaving. A good read.
Innocent Graves by Peter Robinson: Part of the Insp. Banks Mystery series. A teenage daughter from a wealthy family is found strangled in a church cemetery. The are many twists to the story until the killer is discovered.
Hope to see more of you join. Sue Calabrese
Leader: Sue Calabrese
Book Club Report - March 2024
Elizabeth kindly hosted our last meeting at short notice, thank you. We met 0n 29th February, discussed Esther and then received our new book The Worst Woman in Sydney by Leigh Straw.
Our meetings are always very enjoyable chatty get-togethers. We next meet on 11th April.
Leader - Bev Davison
Cards 500 Report for March 2024
We had another successful card night in February with 28 members playing.
We enjoyed a meal together before playing for about 3 hours.
Our next cards night is Friday 22 March 2024.
Dural Country Club.
5.45 dinner and 7PM cards start.
$5 per head.
Looking forward to seeing you all there.
Leader - David Turner
We had another successful card night in February with 28 members playing.
We enjoyed a meal together before playing for about 3 hours.
Our next cards night is Friday 22 March 2024.
Dural Country Club.
5.45 dinner and 7PM cards start.
$5 per head.
Looking forward to seeing you all there.
Leader - David Turner
Cycling Group: March 2024
Due to the unfavourable weather conditions (light rain) on the day, the decision was made to cancel the ride for the month.
Hopefully, with improved weather conditions next month, a further attempt will be made to do the following ride.
The proposed will commence at the Ermington Boat Ramp Carpark (at the end of Wharf Road, Melrose Park). We will follow the Parramatta River to Silverwater Bridge then cross over the river and head back towards Wentworth Point via the Armoury. From Wentworth Point, there will be a detour to Bicentennial Park before back heading back to Rhodes (or Meadowbank) for coffee, then back to the starting point. Note: The ride is relatively flat, other than for bridge crossovers. The ride distance will be approximately 15kms (round trip).
Date: Wednesday 17th April 2024 (To be confirmed pending numbers).
Start time: 9.30am
Location: Ermington Boat Ramp Carpark
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
Due to the unfavourable weather conditions (light rain) on the day, the decision was made to cancel the ride for the month.
Hopefully, with improved weather conditions next month, a further attempt will be made to do the following ride.
The proposed will commence at the Ermington Boat Ramp Carpark (at the end of Wharf Road, Melrose Park). We will follow the Parramatta River to Silverwater Bridge then cross over the river and head back towards Wentworth Point via the Armoury. From Wentworth Point, there will be a detour to Bicentennial Park before back heading back to Rhodes (or Meadowbank) for coffee, then back to the starting point. Note: The ride is relatively flat, other than for bridge crossovers. The ride distance will be approximately 15kms (round trip).
Date: Wednesday 17th April 2024 (To be confirmed pending numbers).
Start time: 9.30am
Location: Ermington Boat Ramp Carpark
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
Parramatta “PHIVE”
On Thursday 7th March 12 members took a guided tour of the $4Billion Parramatta “PHIVE” community, cultural, business and civic hub.
PHIVE is a smart 6 level building area with a highest level 6 star Green rating being the highest rating certified in Australia. Solar collectors, water harvesting and giant louvres respond to the Bureau of meteorology and two local weather sensors to adjust to wind, water, heat, fresh air, natural light and coffee grinding.
In the main foyer is “Ripple effect” designed by Pakistani/Australian artist Abdullah M.I. Syed depicting in collaboration with an indigenous friend Parramatta’s meaning of head of the waters where eels reside.
A fine day enjoyed by all followed by lunch at “Publique eatery”. The NHSA Cruise East of the Harbour organised for Friday 12th April has been cancelled by the society.
I am trying to organise another Day Trip for April. I will let you know as soon as possible.
PHIVE is a smart 6 level building area with a highest level 6 star Green rating being the highest rating certified in Australia. Solar collectors, water harvesting and giant louvres respond to the Bureau of meteorology and two local weather sensors to adjust to wind, water, heat, fresh air, natural light and coffee grinding.
In the main foyer is “Ripple effect” designed by Pakistani/Australian artist Abdullah M.I. Syed depicting in collaboration with an indigenous friend Parramatta’s meaning of head of the waters where eels reside.
A fine day enjoyed by all followed by lunch at “Publique eatery”. The NHSA Cruise East of the Harbour organised for Friday 12th April has been cancelled by the society.
I am trying to organise another Day Trip for April. I will let you know as soon as possible.
Leader - Helen Games
Dining Out March 2024
Marylin Savic is inviting you to join her for lunch on Thursday 18th April.
Marilyn has made a reservation for 12.00 noon in The Glasshouse area at The Fiddler hotel (click HERE for menu details)
Cnr Commercial and Windsor roads,
Rouse Hill, NSW.
Please register your booking with Marilyn by calling her or email no later than Friday 12th.
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 May to November 2024.
Leader - Looking For Monthly Leaders
As previously reported, with two greats trips planned and booked for this year we are off to a great start, the first of which being Ettalong (Mon 18 to Thurs 21 March) was only completed last week.
This was a fantastic trip primarily due to the enthusiasm, including countless hours of planning by Col McGowan. Many thanks Col on behalf of the 47 members who thoroughly enjoyed and benefited from all your endeavours.
With the next payment due in July, Ros Savio of ‘Atour Travel’ previous report is still applicable for our Norfolk Island trip. Please note my comments following her report regarding travel insurance.
Whilst I’ve had a few suggestions for next year, one of the challenges is the logistics of accommodation, meals and activities for about forty people. Such numbers limit our options and can include having to secure accommodation well over twelve months in advance. Regardless, if you have any other ideas, please share with me.
Max Henderson
Activity leader
This was a fantastic trip primarily due to the enthusiasm, including countless hours of planning by Col McGowan. Many thanks Col on behalf of the 47 members who thoroughly enjoyed and benefited from all your endeavours.
With the next payment due in July, Ros Savio of ‘Atour Travel’ previous report is still applicable for our Norfolk Island trip. Please note my comments following her report regarding travel insurance.
Whilst I’ve had a few suggestions for next year, one of the challenges is the logistics of accommodation, meals and activities for about forty people. Such numbers limit our options and can include having to secure accommodation well over twelve months in advance. Regardless, if you have any other ideas, please share with me.
Max Henderson
Activity leader
Norfolk Island – Sun 29th Sep to Sun 6th Oct 2024
Just a brief update, to advise there are 37 people going on this tour, and the trip is now FULL. I thank you all for your tour deposits for which the airfares have all been issued.
As per our confirmation letter sent to everyone, the balance for the trip will be due by Monday, 15th July, 2024.
Please ensure you have your current ID, either a valid passport or driver’s licence. Nothing else is required to enter Norfolk Island.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for any further information you may require.
Roslyn Savio
ATOUR TRAVEL SERVICE
Tele: 9875 2400 or Email: [email protected]
In regards to our Norfolk trip, the following is a key extract from our PSPL Insurance Program:
Whilst there is no restriction within the Program as to the length of Probus activities, it should be noted that this Program is not designed for extended trips and/or tours as it does not provide coverage for incidents that would normally be covered by travel insurance policies. Accordingly, members are encouraged to consider taking travel insurance for trips and/or tours that involve overnight stays.
As per our confirmation letter sent to everyone, the balance for the trip will be due by Monday, 15th July, 2024.
Please ensure you have your current ID, either a valid passport or driver’s licence. Nothing else is required to enter Norfolk Island.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for any further information you may require.
Roslyn Savio
ATOUR TRAVEL SERVICE
Tele: 9875 2400 or Email: [email protected]
In regards to our Norfolk trip, the following is a key extract from our PSPL Insurance Program:
Whilst there is no restriction within the Program as to the length of Probus activities, it should be noted that this Program is not designed for extended trips and/or tours as it does not provide coverage for incidents that would normally be covered by travel insurance policies. Accordingly, members are encouraged to consider taking travel insurance for trips and/or tours that involve overnight stays.
Leader - Max Henderson
Gardening Group – March 2024
Despite the warm weather on the 14th March, a small group of members from the Garden Group strolled around Wahroonga Park. After their walk, they all enjoyed a scrumptious morning tea at the Bonjour Patisserie café in Wahroonga.
I would like to thank Sue Small for leading the Wahroonga Park activity whilst I was away.
Our next Gardening Group day will be visiting the:
The Nurragingy Nature Reserve
Where: Knox Road, Doonside
Date: Thursday 11 April 2024.
The Nurragingy Nature Reserve is a beautiful park with bushland, forest and gardens. It is a protected area that opened in 1981 and is owned by Western Sydney Parklands Trust and operated by Blacktown City Council. The main attractions include the Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens and the Aboriginal Heritage Garden.
Meet: Be at West Pennant Hills Sports Club for a 9.30am departure. Please let me know if you can volunteer to carpool or if you require transport. If you decide to go straight to Nurragingy Reserve, please let me know. The Garden group will meet outside the Colebee Centre which is inside the Nurragingy Reserve at around 10.15am.
There is a free car park next to the Colebee Centre. To get to this car park, turn right after you have entered the Nurragingy Nature Reserve from Knox Road.
Morning Tea/Brunch: Food and drinks are available at the Colebee Cafe Food Kiosk.
Please advise me by email or SMS/text if you are interested in attending.
Julie Stinson
Despite the warm weather on the 14th March, a small group of members from the Garden Group strolled around Wahroonga Park. After their walk, they all enjoyed a scrumptious morning tea at the Bonjour Patisserie café in Wahroonga.
I would like to thank Sue Small for leading the Wahroonga Park activity whilst I was away.
Our next Gardening Group day will be visiting the:
The Nurragingy Nature Reserve
Where: Knox Road, Doonside
Date: Thursday 11 April 2024.
The Nurragingy Nature Reserve is a beautiful park with bushland, forest and gardens. It is a protected area that opened in 1981 and is owned by Western Sydney Parklands Trust and operated by Blacktown City Council. The main attractions include the Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens and the Aboriginal Heritage Garden.
Meet: Be at West Pennant Hills Sports Club for a 9.30am departure. Please let me know if you can volunteer to carpool or if you require transport. If you decide to go straight to Nurragingy Reserve, please let me know. The Garden group will meet outside the Colebee Centre which is inside the Nurragingy Reserve at around 10.15am.
There is a free car park next to the Colebee Centre. To get to this car park, turn right after you have entered the Nurragingy Nature Reserve from Knox Road.
Morning Tea/Brunch: Food and drinks are available at the Colebee Cafe Food Kiosk.
Please advise me by email or SMS/text if you are interested in attending.
Julie Stinson
Photos From Wahroonga Park
Leader - Julie Stinson
Golf Report March 2024 - The Bunker News
HELLO Probus Members
Our game for March was played at Cabramatta Golf Club. We had 14players who thoroughly enjoyed themselves on the course. This was the first time we played Cabramatta and the feedback has been positive.
The weather was warm to warmer with little cloud cover. This was followed by lunch in the snack bar at the club.
Our next game will be on April 5th at Gordon Golf Club, will confirm via email of the start times.
We play social golf catering for all levels, please let us know if you would like to join us.
Fore!!
Yours in Fun, Fellowship & Friendship
Leaders - Terry Ridge & Jeff Swan
WPH&D Probus Inc - Golf Coordinators
Leaders - Terry Ridge & Jeff Swan
WPH&D Probus Inc - Golf Coordinators
Movie Group - March 2024
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
Probus Photography: March Report
The photography group met on 6th March at the Roberts’ house. We were missing both Rob and Bain at the meeting, but we ploughed ahead with all attendees offering comments on their own (and others) photographs.
We had a busy night reviewing 40 photos on the set topic for the month, which was street photography, followed by 10 submitted in the open category. The photo of the month for the street photography went to Gerard Siddle for his candid shot of a barber at work. The photo of the month for the open category went to Max Henderson for his ‘painting’ of dawn light through the gum trees.
To select the photo of the year, we revisited all the photos that had been judged photo for the month during the year. The photo of the year in the set subject category went to Ian Roberts for his photo of a mouse’s point of view. The photo of the year for open category went to Bain Shenstone for his shot of a church in deep, green grass under an impressive cloud formation.
Barry Wailes went through a couple of videos and photos of a model train exhibition that he went to last year. They are so impressive and realistic. The fair is on again this year in May.
The next meeting of the group will be at the Shenstone’s place on 3rd April. The set subject will be monochrome.
Ian Roberts & Rob Clark
The photography group met on 6th March at the Roberts’ house. We were missing both Rob and Bain at the meeting, but we ploughed ahead with all attendees offering comments on their own (and others) photographs.
We had a busy night reviewing 40 photos on the set topic for the month, which was street photography, followed by 10 submitted in the open category. The photo of the month for the street photography went to Gerard Siddle for his candid shot of a barber at work. The photo of the month for the open category went to Max Henderson for his ‘painting’ of dawn light through the gum trees.
To select the photo of the year, we revisited all the photos that had been judged photo for the month during the year. The photo of the year in the set subject category went to Ian Roberts for his photo of a mouse’s point of view. The photo of the year for open category went to Bain Shenstone for his shot of a church in deep, green grass under an impressive cloud formation.
Barry Wailes went through a couple of videos and photos of a model train exhibition that he went to last year. They are so impressive and realistic. The fair is on again this year in May.
The next meeting of the group will be at the Shenstone’s place on 3rd April. The set subject will be monochrome.
Ian Roberts & Rob Clark
Image of The Month - Street Photography - Gerrard Siddle
Image of The Month - Open - Max Henderson
Photo of the year - Mouse’s Eye View – Ian Roberts
Photo of the year - Open - Bain Shenstone
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone
Images From Streetscapes Album
Images From Open Album
TEN PIN BOWLING REPORT - March 2024
Ten Pin Bowling took place on Friday, 15 March.
The highlight of the day was game 2 on the men’s side where Max, David & John were doing battle. It all came down to the last frame with Max posting a score of 141, followed by David on 140 & John on 139.
In another close call David won game 1 by one pin from Eric while Bev came out on top amongst the girls.
As the 3rd Friday in April falls in the school holidays the next Ten Pin Bowling activity will be on Friday 17 May.
Leader - Doug Matthews
Tennis Group Report- March 2024
Still meeting every Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill.
We usually have a core of 4 players with a couple of members who will step up and make up the numbers when we have absences.
If you would like to give it a go and join us, please let me know.
Leader - Bob Davison
Live Theatre March 2024
Three Theatre Parties for April / May are now being finalised and we thank you all for your participation and advise as follows:
- School of Rock -Riverside Theatre, Parramatta, Friday 5 April 2024 7:30pm 24 attendees. Final email to all attendees with details to follow shortly.
- & Juliett -Lyric Theatre Wednesday 1 May 2024 7:00 pm incl. return Bus 24 attendees. Details of travel arrangements to all attendees by Mid-April 2024.
- Jersey Boys -Concourse Theatre, Chatswood, Thursday 30 May 2024 7:30pm 23 attendees. Cost $65 Payment is due by Mid-April 2024.
We are also completing plans to visit CIRQUE DU SOLEIL’S LUZIA on Thursday 12 December 2024 at the Entertainment Quarter, Moore Mark under the Big Top in the round.Tickets are currently limited to 48 (due to bus capacity) at an anticipated cost of $129 each including return coach travel. Interest sheet will be available at our April meeting.
About the show:
LUZIA invites you to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) quenches the spirit and rain (“lluvia”) soothes the soul.
With mesmerising and refreshing acrobatic performances, LUZIA brings traditional and contemporary circus disciplines to a whole new level. Cyr Wheel artists perform the unprecedented feat of rolling and spinning under the rain, while an aerialist suspended from a Trapeze flies and twirls through pouring showers. Hoop Diving is taken onto gigantic treadmills, expanding exponentially the speed and daring leaps executed.
Jaw-dropping highlights include a male contortionist skilfully twisting his body in the world’s most unimaginable positions, a powerful Aerial Straps specialist defying the laws of gravity at the centre of a cenote (natural sinkhole), a juggler tossing seven pins at breakneck speed, and two football freestylers deftly mixing street dance with mind-blowing ball manipulation.
More than 4.5 million spectators around the world have already seen the awe-inspiring acrobatics and uniqueness of LUZIA
In total there are 1,000 pieces of costume seen on stage in LUZIA, including 140 pairs of shoes.
LUZIA travel with a team of 120 people, including 47 artists, from 26 different countries.
LUZIA is Cirque Du Soleil’s 10th Big Top show to visit Australia in 25 years.
Bruce & Robyn Bartle
Activity Co-ordinators -Live Theatre
About the show:
LUZIA invites you to an imaginary Mexico, like in a waking dream, where light (“luz” in Spanish) quenches the spirit and rain (“lluvia”) soothes the soul.
With mesmerising and refreshing acrobatic performances, LUZIA brings traditional and contemporary circus disciplines to a whole new level. Cyr Wheel artists perform the unprecedented feat of rolling and spinning under the rain, while an aerialist suspended from a Trapeze flies and twirls through pouring showers. Hoop Diving is taken onto gigantic treadmills, expanding exponentially the speed and daring leaps executed.
Jaw-dropping highlights include a male contortionist skilfully twisting his body in the world’s most unimaginable positions, a powerful Aerial Straps specialist defying the laws of gravity at the centre of a cenote (natural sinkhole), a juggler tossing seven pins at breakneck speed, and two football freestylers deftly mixing street dance with mind-blowing ball manipulation.
More than 4.5 million spectators around the world have already seen the awe-inspiring acrobatics and uniqueness of LUZIA
In total there are 1,000 pieces of costume seen on stage in LUZIA, including 140 pairs of shoes.
LUZIA travel with a team of 120 people, including 47 artists, from 26 different countries.
LUZIA is Cirque Du Soleil’s 10th Big Top show to visit Australia in 25 years.
Bruce & Robyn Bartle
Activity Co-ordinators -Live Theatre
Leaders - Bruce & Robyn Bartle
Walking Group February 2024
A small group attended the last Probus walk on (second Tues of the month) Tues March 12th 2024 from Cherrybrook shopping centre to Thornleigh Train station, with a bus return to Cherrybrook. The walk was one way, approx. 5Km long, taking approx 1:45 hours, with a lovely coffee at the end at the “Monday morning Café”.
This was a excellent walk of moderate grade, via the Berowra Valley Regional Park, mostly a bush track, including sandstone rock features, lots of ferns and great scenery along Zig Zag Creek. Unfortunately it was easy to ‘get lost’ in the Regional Park ending up at Newcastle.
Members are reminded that any outdoor activities are prone to changes in time & location due to weather (rain, heat, thunder storm, etc) and the Activity Leader needs to manage the risk for the health & safety of the persons partaking in the activity. Therefore, members should always advise the Activity Leader of their intention to participate to ensure that they are advised of any last-minute changes
.
The next walk is on Tuesday 9th April, Cremorne Point to Taronga Zoo wharf, an easy 4.2km walk with harbour views.
Details to be provided by email at a later date.
A small group attended the last Probus walk on (second Tues of the month) Tues March 12th 2024 from Cherrybrook shopping centre to Thornleigh Train station, with a bus return to Cherrybrook. The walk was one way, approx. 5Km long, taking approx 1:45 hours, with a lovely coffee at the end at the “Monday morning Café”.
This was a excellent walk of moderate grade, via the Berowra Valley Regional Park, mostly a bush track, including sandstone rock features, lots of ferns and great scenery along Zig Zag Creek. Unfortunately it was easy to ‘get lost’ in the Regional Park ending up at Newcastle.
Members are reminded that any outdoor activities are prone to changes in time & location due to weather (rain, heat, thunder storm, etc) and the Activity Leader needs to manage the risk for the health & safety of the persons partaking in the activity. Therefore, members should always advise the Activity Leader of their intention to participate to ensure that they are advised of any last-minute changes
.
The next walk is on Tuesday 9th April, Cremorne Point to Taronga Zoo wharf, an easy 4.2km walk with harbour views.
Details to be provided by email at a later date.
Photos from the walk
Leaders - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson
Wine & Cheese March 2024
The March Wine & Cheese was hosted by Cawas & Rashna Sahukar.
We had 21 attendees and a pleasant evening was had by all.
April’s Wine & Cheese will be at the home off Meg and Geoff Heaton on Friday 12th April.
All members are welcome.
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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