President's Report

President’s Report - July 2024
Hello Everyone
Well we have been lucky over the last few days….no rain! Nice to see the sun out although we have had some very chilly and frosty mornings. I’m pleased to report that 4th time lucky, the golfers managed to play although it was very soggy underfoot!
I know a number of you have been busy with grandparenting duties over the last couple of weeks. School holidays offers us the opportunity to spend some great times getting out and about with them and trying to keep up with their endless energy. They certainly keep us on our toes!
Our outdoor activities like cycling, golfing, gardening, tennis and walking have had the blessing of sunshine so many of you took advantage of this. I believe the Wine and Cheese evening held at the Clarke’s with a theme of “wear a hat” went off very well. I’m sure photos taken will be up on the big screen at the next meeting so should get a few laughs.
We received our Certificate of Currency from PSPL so are covered for another 12 months
.
I will be away at the next General meeting so Rosemary our Vice President will be filling in for me. Thank you Rosemary.
I hope as many of you as possible can make it to the next meeting as Rob Clarke will be doing a very interesting talk on Israel.
Stay warm.
Cathy Turner
President
Hello Everyone
Well we have been lucky over the last few days….no rain! Nice to see the sun out although we have had some very chilly and frosty mornings. I’m pleased to report that 4th time lucky, the golfers managed to play although it was very soggy underfoot!
I know a number of you have been busy with grandparenting duties over the last couple of weeks. School holidays offers us the opportunity to spend some great times getting out and about with them and trying to keep up with their endless energy. They certainly keep us on our toes!
Our outdoor activities like cycling, golfing, gardening, tennis and walking have had the blessing of sunshine so many of you took advantage of this. I believe the Wine and Cheese evening held at the Clarke’s with a theme of “wear a hat” went off very well. I’m sure photos taken will be up on the big screen at the next meeting so should get a few laughs.
We received our Certificate of Currency from PSPL so are covered for another 12 months
.
I will be away at the next General meeting so Rosemary our Vice President will be filling in for me. Thank you Rosemary.
I hope as many of you as possible can make it to the next meeting as Rob Clarke will be doing a very interesting talk on Israel.
Stay warm.
Cathy Turner
President
Secretarial
- None
Correspondence Out
- None
Bev Watson
Details of the Probus Member Benefit Scheme are at:
www.probussouthpacific.org/pages/members_offers_member_benefits_scheme (Cntl click on link)
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 30 June 2024 | |||||
GENERAL ACCOUNT | ||||||
Opening cash balance | 1 June 2024 | $6,335.66 | ||||
Interest | $0.05 | |||||
Deposits | $0.00 | Annual dues and joining fees received | ||||
$0.00 | ||||||
Expenses | $(2,185.00) | PSPL Capitation fees / Fair Trading | ||||
$0.00 | Admin costs / Website Fees | |||||
$0.00 | Speaker Costs / Welfare | |||||
$(139.25) | Hornsby Council venue hire | |||||
$(44.00) | Morning teas | |||||
$0.00 | Transfers to / (from) Activity A/c | |||||
$0.00 | New member costs | |||||
$(2,368.25) | ||||||
Closing cash balance | 30 June 2024 | $3,967.46 | ||||
ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT | ||||||
Opening cash balance | 1 June 2024 | $17,378.41 | ||||
Interest | $33.32 | |||||
Deposits | $0.00 | Scenic Rim | ||||
$0.00 | Norfolk Island | |||||
$0.00 | Cards 500 | |||||
$0.00 | Jersey Boys | |||||
$207.00 | Epping Book Club | |||||
$600.00 | Newcastle | |||||
$0.00 | Windy Ridge | |||||
$0.00 | Golf Week | |||||
$3,024.00 | Luzio | |||||
$480.00 | Eryldene | |||||
$660.00 | $4,971.00 | Il Posto | ||||
Deposits to be identified | ||||||
Payments | $(12,133.00) | Scenic Rim | ||||
$0.00 | Norfolk Island | |||||
$(260.00) | Jersey Boys | |||||
$(483.00) | Epping Book Club | |||||
$(600.00) | Newcastle | |||||
$(2,900.80) | Golf Week | |||||
$(1,239.75) | Luzio | |||||
$0.00 | $(17,616.55) | Eryldene | ||||
Closing cash balance | 30 June 2024 | $4,766.18 | ||||
Open Activities | Balance | |||||
Scenic Rim | $357.71 | |||||
Norfolk Island | $0.00 | |||||
Cards 500 | $190.00 | |||||
Jersey Boys | $51.50 | |||||
Epping Book Club | $0.00 | |||||
Newcastle | $0.00 | |||||
Windy Ridge | $0.00 | |||||
Golf Week | $489.80 | |||||
Luzio | $1,784.25 | |||||
Eryldene | $480.00 | |||||
Il Posto | $660.00 | |||||
$4,013.26 | ||||||
Add: | ||||||
Activities surplus | $680.92 | |||||
Unresolved fixes | $72.00 | |||||
Bank balance | $4,766.18 | |||||
TERM DEPOSIT | ||||||
The Term Deposit was rolled over in July at a value of $5,000.00, and has earned -$15,742.03 this year, | ||||||
at current interest rate of 4.75% p.a. | ||||||
INTEREST | ||||||
For this year, $155.04 has been received as interest General Account $0.12, Activities Account $154.92. | ||||||
ACTIVITY SURPLUS | ||||||
The Activity Surplus currently stands at $680.92. | ||||||
Michael Stinson | ||||||
Treasurer | 30 June 2024 | |||||
Michael Stinson
Treasurer
Treasurer
Membership
Membership July 2024
Following the annual membership renewals, we are now at 113 Active Members with a 60/40 female/male ratio.
As mentioned in the June General Meeting and my recent email to all members, a few spots for membership are to become available shortly.
We invite existing members of the club to nominate family members (spouses, partners) for these positions.
Please contact me if you are interested in nominating somebody who you may think is suitable.
Membership applications will close Thursday, 25th July.
Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings.
A reminder of our Club policies for attendance at meetings and activities.
Following the annual membership renewals, we are now at 113 Active Members with a 60/40 female/male ratio.
As mentioned in the June General Meeting and my recent email to all members, a few spots for membership are to become available shortly.
We invite existing members of the club to nominate family members (spouses, partners) for these positions.
Please contact me if you are interested in nominating somebody who you may think is suitable.
Membership applications will close Thursday, 25th July.
Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings.
A reminder of our Club policies for attendance at meetings and activities.
- Members are expected to attend a minimum of 10 functions (meetings and/or activities) per Probus year (April to March).
- Visitors may only attend a maximum of 3 functions (meetings and/or activities) per Probus year.
Welfare
WELFARE REPORT July 2024
Good morning all,
Winter is really upon us. As I write my report, I have 2 jackets on and I am still cold. Hope you are all warmer than I am. I don’t have anything to report. I have made a couple of phone calls to check on members and all is going well. Keep it up everyone.
Fun Friendship and Fellowship is going strong within our club which is great to see. Please look after each other and stay happy and healthy.
Stay healthy.
Toni Smith & Terry Ridge – Welfare Officers
Good morning all,
Winter is really upon us. As I write my report, I have 2 jackets on and I am still cold. Hope you are all warmer than I am. I don’t have anything to report. I have made a couple of phone calls to check on members and all is going well. Keep it up everyone.
Fun Friendship and Fellowship is going strong within our club which is great to see. Please look after each other and stay happy and healthy.
Stay healthy.
Toni Smith & Terry Ridge – Welfare Officers
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 August 2024 Newsletter by Friday - 23rd August 2024.
Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2024 08
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 | 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 August 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 August to November 2024.

TBT! The Texted Best Thing is running from March ‘24 to end February ‘25. Our challenge 100 books, and already we are up to 48. You can still join us to help reach this goal. You never know what might grab you.
June-July reads:
Daughter of Mine by Fiona Lowe: a thought provoking novel about family expectations, secrets and lies. Reviewed last month.
Stay Close by Harlan Coben: quite a good read. It was difficult to pick who dunnit until disclosed in the last few pages. However, it was a bit long.
Aphrodite’s Breath by Susan Johnson: Book Club read. An interesting memoir. The 62yr old author, Susan, invites her 85yr old mother Barbara to live with her on the Greek island of Kythera. She has rose-coloured memories of staying on the island in her younger days, but the reality so many years later is very different. She expected mum to love it just as much as she did, but not so. She is left pondering the wisdom of committing to wrting about the experience. I know this island from visiting friends there twice now. It is beautiful, and so much quieter than the more known islands. It’s the island where the Greeks holiday.
What Happened to Nina by Dervla McTiernan: Another thought provoking story written in a manner that keeps you guessing – how far will a mother go to protect her son, no matter what he has done.
The Champagne War by Fiona McIntosh: Sophie and Jerome are just married when WWI is declared. The story is about loss, hope, love, and Sophie’s determination to keep their French Vineyard going.
The Mystery of Swordfish Reef by Arthur W. Upfield: Book 7 in the Insp. Napoleon Bonaparte Mysteries. A fascinating read – how Boney manages to track things in the ocean is beyond me. However, the descriptions of catching swordfish are riveting. One dead – headless body comes up in a trawl net, 2 missing, all at sea. As always the story sucks you in completely. You think you might know who did it, but how and why are always a mystery, and then of course there is the twist.
Murder Must Wait by Arthur W. Upfield: Book 17 in the Insp. Napoleon Bonaparte Mysteries. Five babies disappear, but with the last one, the mother is murdered. All them are boys, and all are unwanted and emotionally neglected by their mothers. Boney has to solve the murder, but first the baby mystery is to be solved so that the murder can be found out.
Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens by Shankari Chandran: A really good read involving the refugees of Sri Lanka. A nursing home is bought and lovingly restored by .. and .. The racism they receive from the local community is appalling and leads to an horrendous moment involving death and loss. Throughout the book we find out all the stories of the main characters – stories of horror, torture, hatred and love. The stories wind through each other and shows how they shape who we are and who we become.
You can join at any time – just set your own challenge from your starting point to the end of February next year. 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.
Hope to see more of you join.
Leader: Sue Calabrese
June-July reads:
Daughter of Mine by Fiona Lowe: a thought provoking novel about family expectations, secrets and lies. Reviewed last month.
Stay Close by Harlan Coben: quite a good read. It was difficult to pick who dunnit until disclosed in the last few pages. However, it was a bit long.
Aphrodite’s Breath by Susan Johnson: Book Club read. An interesting memoir. The 62yr old author, Susan, invites her 85yr old mother Barbara to live with her on the Greek island of Kythera. She has rose-coloured memories of staying on the island in her younger days, but the reality so many years later is very different. She expected mum to love it just as much as she did, but not so. She is left pondering the wisdom of committing to wrting about the experience. I know this island from visiting friends there twice now. It is beautiful, and so much quieter than the more known islands. It’s the island where the Greeks holiday.
What Happened to Nina by Dervla McTiernan: Another thought provoking story written in a manner that keeps you guessing – how far will a mother go to protect her son, no matter what he has done.
The Champagne War by Fiona McIntosh: Sophie and Jerome are just married when WWI is declared. The story is about loss, hope, love, and Sophie’s determination to keep their French Vineyard going.
The Mystery of Swordfish Reef by Arthur W. Upfield: Book 7 in the Insp. Napoleon Bonaparte Mysteries. A fascinating read – how Boney manages to track things in the ocean is beyond me. However, the descriptions of catching swordfish are riveting. One dead – headless body comes up in a trawl net, 2 missing, all at sea. As always the story sucks you in completely. You think you might know who did it, but how and why are always a mystery, and then of course there is the twist.
Murder Must Wait by Arthur W. Upfield: Book 17 in the Insp. Napoleon Bonaparte Mysteries. Five babies disappear, but with the last one, the mother is murdered. All them are boys, and all are unwanted and emotionally neglected by their mothers. Boney has to solve the murder, but first the baby mystery is to be solved so that the murder can be found out.
Chai Time at Cinnamon Gardens by Shankari Chandran: A really good read involving the refugees of Sri Lanka. A nursing home is bought and lovingly restored by .. and .. The racism they receive from the local community is appalling and leads to an horrendous moment involving death and loss. Throughout the book we find out all the stories of the main characters – stories of horror, torture, hatred and love. The stories wind through each other and shows how they shape who we are and who we become.
You can join at any time – just set your own challenge from your starting point to the end of February next year. 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.
Hope to see more of you join.
Leader: Sue Calabrese

Book Club Report - July 2024
On July 4th we met at Rosemary Clarke’s home, discussed Aphrodite’s Breath and received our current book The Angry Women’s Choir by Meg Bignell.
Our next meeting is Thursday 15th August.
Leader - Bev Davison
A heart-warming and uplifting story about a remarkable group of women who discover they are all capable of incredible things – if they’re strong enough, and angry enough, to take up the cause. Once in a while, everyone needs to be heard. Freycinet Barnes has built herself the perfect existence. With beautiful children, a successful husband and a well-ordered schedule, it’s a life so full she simply doesn’t fit. When she steps outside her calendar and is accidentally thrown into the generous bosom of the West Moonah Women’s Choir, she finds music, laughter, friendship and a humming wellspring of rage. With the ready acceptance of the colourful choristers, Frey learns that voices can move mountains, fury can be kind and life can do with a bit of ruining. Together, Frey and the choir sing their anger, they breathe it in and stitch it up, belt it out and spin it into a fierce, driving beat that will kick the system square in the b###s, and possibly demolish them all. |

Cards 500 Report for July 2024
At our last card evening we had 31 players and 21 for dinner. Lots of fun and laughter as usual.
Our next cards evening will be
Friday 26 July 2024
Dural Country Club
7pm for cards
5.45 for dinner
$5 per head to play
An email will be sent out a few days prior to ascertain numbers for playing and dinner.
If you wish to be added to the email list to play please add your name to the sheet at the next general meeting.
Looking forward to seeing everyone.
David
Leader - David Turner
At our last card evening we had 31 players and 21 for dinner. Lots of fun and laughter as usual.
Our next cards evening will be
Friday 26 July 2024
Dural Country Club
7pm for cards
5.45 for dinner
$5 per head to play
An email will be sent out a few days prior to ascertain numbers for playing and dinner.
If you wish to be added to the email list to play please add your name to the sheet at the next general meeting.
Looking forward to seeing everyone.
David
Leader - David Turner

Cycling Group: July 2024
The Probus Cycling Group managed another sunny day for this month’s ride, although the breeze was a bit chilly!
The ride commenced at the Ermington boat ramp and headed west along the northern side of the Parramatta River. The group crossed over the river at the new Alfred Street pedestrian bridge, just in time to witness the new light rail trains in operation (without passengers).
Following the pathways on the southern side of the river, the group crossed back over at the Parramatta ferry terminal, before viewing the ongoing construction work of the new Powerhouse Museum.
The coffee break was held at the cafe adjacent to the George Street Gatehouse to Parramatta Park. Next stop was for coffee at the park adjacent to the Olympic Park Railway Station. Having “fuelled up”, the Group headed back along the Parramatta River (with a tail wind!), to the starting point at the Ermington boat ramp rode through Bicentennial Park.
The ride was relatively flat, with a few inclines and a couple of road crossings. The ride distance was approximately 19kms (from start to finish).
NOTE: Next month’s ride will commence from Fairmont Circuit Bella Vista (Carpark at the bottom of the street). We will follow the bike paths out to Rouse Hill and return. (Approx. distance – 16kms).
Date: Wednesday 21st August 2024 (To be confirmed pending numbers).
Start time: 9.30am
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
The Probus Cycling Group managed another sunny day for this month’s ride, although the breeze was a bit chilly!
The ride commenced at the Ermington boat ramp and headed west along the northern side of the Parramatta River. The group crossed over the river at the new Alfred Street pedestrian bridge, just in time to witness the new light rail trains in operation (without passengers).
Following the pathways on the southern side of the river, the group crossed back over at the Parramatta ferry terminal, before viewing the ongoing construction work of the new Powerhouse Museum.
The coffee break was held at the cafe adjacent to the George Street Gatehouse to Parramatta Park. Next stop was for coffee at the park adjacent to the Olympic Park Railway Station. Having “fuelled up”, the Group headed back along the Parramatta River (with a tail wind!), to the starting point at the Ermington boat ramp rode through Bicentennial Park.
The ride was relatively flat, with a few inclines and a couple of road crossings. The ride distance was approximately 19kms (from start to finish).
NOTE: Next month’s ride will commence from Fairmont Circuit Bella Vista (Carpark at the bottom of the street). We will follow the bike paths out to Rouse Hill and return. (Approx. distance – 16kms).
Date: Wednesday 21st August 2024 (To be confirmed pending numbers).
Start time: 9.30am
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
NHSA Naval History Society
3 Hour Cruise East of the Harbour Bridge
Friday 30th August
Please see flyer below for details.
To download a pdf of the flyer, please click HERE.
To download a pdf of the flyer, please click HERE.
Tai Chi
After some discussion we have decided to cancel Tai Chi on Monday 29th July - it was too expensive at $25 per session.
We are still investigating other Tai Chi classes.
Benefits of Tai Chi
• reduce the risk and fear of falling
• improve balance and flexibility,
• improve ligament and muscle strength,
• improve coordination
You may be interested in the following class:-
Every Tuesday during the school term.
Time: 12.30
Cost: $10 each class if paying for a term in advance
$15 for casual attendance
Location:
Blue Gum Centre
Glenhaven Green Retirement Village
599 - 607 Old Northern Road
Glenhaven
Starting date: Tuesday 23rd July
What to wear: casual clothes that you can move in. Trainers or light
shoes
Bring a bottle of water
A chair can be used to aid balance if needed.
I hope to see you there.
Helen Games
We are still investigating other Tai Chi classes.
Benefits of Tai Chi
• reduce the risk and fear of falling
• improve balance and flexibility,
• improve ligament and muscle strength,
• improve coordination
You may be interested in the following class:-
Every Tuesday during the school term.
Time: 12.30
Cost: $10 each class if paying for a term in advance
$15 for casual attendance
Location:
Blue Gum Centre
Glenhaven Green Retirement Village
599 - 607 Old Northern Road
Glenhaven
Starting date: Tuesday 23rd July
What to wear: casual clothes that you can move in. Trainers or light
shoes
Bring a bottle of water
A chair can be used to aid balance if needed.
I hope to see you there.
Helen Games
Photos From Archibald Exhibition
Leader - Helen Games

Dining Out July 2024
The following Dining Out activities are organised for the following months
July : Glenda & Tony Coote are hosting a Dinner at the Il Posto Restaurant, Shop 4, 30 Roma St North Epping at 6.30pm on 25th July. The food specialties are wood-fire pizza, authentic pasta for $55 per head and it is BYOG. See notice below.
August: Jeff & Edie Swan are hosting a Lunch. 12:00 Tuesday 20/8/2024 at “Bella” in the Bella Vista Hotel, 13-15 Lexington Drive, Bella Vista. Parking underneath with overflow parking next door at 17 Lexington Drive. Hope you can join them. Email [email protected] or sign up at June or July general meeting. The menu is available for download here.
The members thank all the wonderful persons who take on the role of arranging this activity.
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 September to November 2024.
Leader - Looking For Monthly Leaders
Norfolk Island – Sun 29th Sep to Sun 6th Oct 2024
Ros Savio of ‘Atour Travel’ has provided the following update:
To all the Probus Norfolk Island Travellers,
Thank you all for your prompt payment. Everyone has now fully paid and the tour is full, again thank you.
Please if you require any assistance regarding travel insurance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Also, if you are a Qantas Frequent flyer member, and not already advised me, please do advise your Qantas Frequent Flyer number and I will insert this into your flight booking.
Again, a reminder to have your valid ID (passport or driver’s licence) available for check in at the airport.
I will have your documents available for collection at your Probus meeting on Wednesday 28th August, 2024. If you are unable to attend this meeting you can collect them from our office in Castle Hill or I can post them to you.
I look forward to meeting with you on the 28th August.
Kind regards,
Roslyn Savio
Manager
Atour Travel Service
7 Cumberland Avenue
Castle Hill NSW 2154
Tel: 02 9875 2400
email: [email protected]
Our office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday, or by appointment on a Saturday morning.
To all the Probus Norfolk Island Travellers,
Thank you all for your prompt payment. Everyone has now fully paid and the tour is full, again thank you.
Please if you require any assistance regarding travel insurance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Also, if you are a Qantas Frequent flyer member, and not already advised me, please do advise your Qantas Frequent Flyer number and I will insert this into your flight booking.
Again, a reminder to have your valid ID (passport or driver’s licence) available for check in at the airport.
I will have your documents available for collection at your Probus meeting on Wednesday 28th August, 2024. If you are unable to attend this meeting you can collect them from our office in Castle Hill or I can post them to you.
I look forward to meeting with you on the 28th August.
Kind regards,
Roslyn Savio
Manager
Atour Travel Service
7 Cumberland Avenue
Castle Hill NSW 2154
Tel: 02 9875 2400
email: [email protected]
Our office hours are 9am – 5pm Monday to Friday, or by appointment on a Saturday morning.
Newcastle - Monday 31 March to Thursday 3 April 2025
Generally, as reported last month. I have also included a couple of additional promo links.
We have now selected our evening meal venues. As they can all cater for in excess of forty people, we have increased our numbers to include the three members that were on standby to 43. We have now booked all the one-bedroom apartments in the complex.
Accommodation
The Terminus Apartment Hotel, 111 Scott St, Newcastle 2300, within the historic precinct of Newcastle and overlooks the iconic Honeysuckle promenade with water views and historic buildings. Only minutes from many various tourist attractions, including waterfront boutiques, cafés, bars, pubs, eateries, museums, galleries, bicycle hire and the Stockton ferry. It also has the benefit of the recently completed light rail.
There is only one car space per apartment with a strict vehicular height clearance of 2.1m.
Please note:
Generally, as reported last month. I have also included a couple of additional promo links.
We have now selected our evening meal venues. As they can all cater for in excess of forty people, we have increased our numbers to include the three members that were on standby to 43. We have now booked all the one-bedroom apartments in the complex.
Accommodation
The Terminus Apartment Hotel, 111 Scott St, Newcastle 2300, within the historic precinct of Newcastle and overlooks the iconic Honeysuckle promenade with water views and historic buildings. Only minutes from many various tourist attractions, including waterfront boutiques, cafés, bars, pubs, eateries, museums, galleries, bicycle hire and the Stockton ferry. It also has the benefit of the recently completed light rail.
There is only one car space per apartment with a strict vehicular height clearance of 2.1m.
Please note:
- No rooms are guaranteed until we lodge our Group Deposit of $300 per room
- Cancellation fees apply for late cancellations in March 2025
- The Group organiser is required to notify the hotel in writing of any reductions in group numbers or cancellations. Verbal amendments & and cancellations are not accepted.
Thank you for paying your accommodation deposits which are refundable, provided I advise the apartment-hotel prior to the end of February 2025
.
Your $300.00 deposit secures your room only, once we finalise our itinerary there may be additional costs for meals (one evening meal has a set menu) and activities, etc.
Please refer to my email confirmation, the majority were dated 15 April confirming your respective room selection.
.
Your $300.00 deposit secures your room only, once we finalise our itinerary there may be additional costs for meals (one evening meal has a set menu) and activities, etc.
Please refer to my email confirmation, the majority were dated 15 April confirming your respective room selection.
Your respective balances are due by Monday, 12th February, 2025. Please pay into the club’s activity account and identify your payments with Newcastle and your surname.
Evening meals
We have booked the following:
Centrally located in Newcastle and only two stops on the light rail from our accommodation. https://theluckyhotel.com.au/
Evening meals
We have booked the following:
- Monday; Queens Wharf Hotel, 150 Wharf Rd, 6.00 for 6.30pm on the upper level (first floor via stairs). Offering waterfront views of the harbour and excellent quality bistro-style pub food. About a five-minute walk from our accommodation. https://www.queenswharfhotel.com.au/
- Tuesday; The Lucky Hotel, 237 Hunter St, 6.00 for 6.30pm in the covered courtyard.
Centrally located in Newcastle and only two stops on the light rail from our accommodation. https://theluckyhotel.com.au/
- Wednesday; Customs House Hotel, 1 Bond St, 6.00 for 6.30 in the restaurant. Offers an iconic dining experience within a heritage listed building with harbour views. We have a set minimised menu that will consist of a bread roll, main, sides and dessert. Whilst currently priced at $65.00 per person, it is subject to change in the new year. This will be added to your balance payable
Activities
As with previous trips, we are working on providing a group activity or two. We will also provide various options you can do at your leisure.
Why Visit Newcastle
From the golden sand beaches with stunning coastal walks to architectural wonders where the present pays homage to the city’s industrial past, Newcastle doesn’t disappoint.
Newcastle is where the city meets the sea, from museums and craft markets, to stunning coastal views and world-class beach breaks. This includes the famous Merewether Beach, home to the international surfing competition, Surfest. Take a scenic walk from our hotel to Newcastle Beach, maybe via Nobbys Beach and its Lighthouse along the breakwall, where you can watch a coal ship being ushered into the harbour by hard working tug boats. Maybe even spot a friendly dolphin or two off the coastline. You may reduce your walking distances by catching the light rail.
With a number of historical sites including the breathtaking Newcastle Ocean Baths and The Lock-Up — one of Newcastle’s most significant heritage buildings — culture vultures will be kept busy exploring the wonders and architecture of the area’s rich and proud history.
Newcastle also has a unique city geography and a 200-year history that helped create distinctive precincts - all alive with energy. Explore and uncover the flavour and allure of the city’s streetscapes and waterfronts - each with its own individual character.
Honeysuckle and the Harbour - For a meal with a view
Newcastle harbour is home to Honeysuckle, a major waterfront rejuvenation project transforming the previously industrial landscape. Working wharves are becoming places of play with the creation of foreshore promenades and open squares offering waterfront cafes and restaurants – all with glorious views. Some refer to it as Newcastle’s equivalent of Sydney’s Darling Harbour.
Newcastle East - Where the city meets the ocean and harbour
This is Newcastle’s oldest precinct and was the original town site. The area affords delightful contrasts, with the city centre surrounded by beach on one side and harbour on the other. As Australia’s second oldest city, the streetscapes abound with gracious heritage buildings and this precinct showcases some of the nation’s most significant sites.
Stockton - For maritime history and a spectacular coastal landscape
A short ferry ride away from Newcastle (Honeysuckle) is Stockton. Stockton has a rich maritime history and has seen over 100 ships wrecked on its shores, one of which has been incorporated into the 'Shipwreck Walk' along Stockton Breakwall. Stockton is also famous for its massive sand dunes, the largest moving coastal sand mass in the southern hemisphere. The sand dunes have formed the background of many films, including the popular Australian 'Mad Max' films.
Whilst our short stay may focus on the above precinct’s, others include:
Civic Cultural Precinct - Where Newcastle's cultural scene comes alive
City Centre - A place of revitalisation and transition, a mixture of the raw and refined
The Junction - Newcastle's boutique shopping village
Hamilton - For a multicultural mix and old-world treasures, and
Cooks Hill - For the young and hip (I’m sure we qualify).
In summary, all the ingredients for another fantastic Probus trip.
As with previous trips, we are working on providing a group activity or two. We will also provide various options you can do at your leisure.
Why Visit Newcastle
From the golden sand beaches with stunning coastal walks to architectural wonders where the present pays homage to the city’s industrial past, Newcastle doesn’t disappoint.
Newcastle is where the city meets the sea, from museums and craft markets, to stunning coastal views and world-class beach breaks. This includes the famous Merewether Beach, home to the international surfing competition, Surfest. Take a scenic walk from our hotel to Newcastle Beach, maybe via Nobbys Beach and its Lighthouse along the breakwall, where you can watch a coal ship being ushered into the harbour by hard working tug boats. Maybe even spot a friendly dolphin or two off the coastline. You may reduce your walking distances by catching the light rail.
With a number of historical sites including the breathtaking Newcastle Ocean Baths and The Lock-Up — one of Newcastle’s most significant heritage buildings — culture vultures will be kept busy exploring the wonders and architecture of the area’s rich and proud history.
Newcastle also has a unique city geography and a 200-year history that helped create distinctive precincts - all alive with energy. Explore and uncover the flavour and allure of the city’s streetscapes and waterfronts - each with its own individual character.
Honeysuckle and the Harbour - For a meal with a view
Newcastle harbour is home to Honeysuckle, a major waterfront rejuvenation project transforming the previously industrial landscape. Working wharves are becoming places of play with the creation of foreshore promenades and open squares offering waterfront cafes and restaurants – all with glorious views. Some refer to it as Newcastle’s equivalent of Sydney’s Darling Harbour.
Newcastle East - Where the city meets the ocean and harbour
This is Newcastle’s oldest precinct and was the original town site. The area affords delightful contrasts, with the city centre surrounded by beach on one side and harbour on the other. As Australia’s second oldest city, the streetscapes abound with gracious heritage buildings and this precinct showcases some of the nation’s most significant sites.
Stockton - For maritime history and a spectacular coastal landscape
A short ferry ride away from Newcastle (Honeysuckle) is Stockton. Stockton has a rich maritime history and has seen over 100 ships wrecked on its shores, one of which has been incorporated into the 'Shipwreck Walk' along Stockton Breakwall. Stockton is also famous for its massive sand dunes, the largest moving coastal sand mass in the southern hemisphere. The sand dunes have formed the background of many films, including the popular Australian 'Mad Max' films.
Whilst our short stay may focus on the above precinct’s, others include:
Civic Cultural Precinct - Where Newcastle's cultural scene comes alive
City Centre - A place of revitalisation and transition, a mixture of the raw and refined
The Junction - Newcastle's boutique shopping village
Hamilton - For a multicultural mix and old-world treasures, and
Cooks Hill - For the young and hip (I’m sure we qualify).
In summary, all the ingredients for another fantastic Probus trip.
PS; this link will provide a good insight into one of the best coastal walks in Australia
https://youtu.be/tgnETHbcLFE
These links also provide a good insight into numerous Newcastle attractions:
https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/how-steel-city-is-stealing-the-visitor-limelight-20210215-h1tzpa.html
https://premiumbuses.com.au/newcastle-guided-tour-newcastle-tours/
https://youtu.be/tgnETHbcLFE
These links also provide a good insight into numerous Newcastle attractions:
https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/inspiration/how-steel-city-is-stealing-the-visitor-limelight-20210215-h1tzpa.html
https://premiumbuses.com.au/newcastle-guided-tour-newcastle-tours/
Leader - Max Henderson
Gardening Group – July 2024
The Garden Group had good fortune with the weather again as we spent a lovely day on 11 July at Eryldene Historic House and Garden, which is located in Gordon. We started our visit with morning tea and our Probus group of 19 members were then split into 2 groups to make the tours more manageable and more personal. The gardener at Eryldene took one group around the garden while the other group was divided further into smaller groups to tour the house.
We found out that the house was designed and built by the architect Hardy Wilson in consultation with Professor Eben Gowrie Waterhouse in 1914. We were all required to wear booties in the house as the carpet dates back to 1914. We learnt about the lifestyle of the Professor, his wife, Janet and their family as well as the Professor’s passion for languages and camellias. The four tour guides were all very enthusiastic about the history of the house and garden. Afterwards, we continued on to the Greengate Hotel in Killara for a delicious lunch.
For our next activity, the Gardening Group will be visiting:
Bunnings at Rydalmere for a garden talk (to be confirmed)
Date : Wednesday 7 August 2023
Please note that the Garden group day for this month has changed from Thursday to Wednesday due to the Bunnings garden schedule.
Where : The Garden Centre at Bunnings - 316 Victoria Road, Rydalmere.
Meet: For carpooling purposes, be at West Pennant Hills Sports Club for a 9am departure. Please let me know if you require transport or are able to car pool. Please advise me also if you are going straight to Bunnings. It is approximately a 30 minute drive. We will meet outside the Bunnings’ Garden Centre entrance at about 9.40am for the 10am talk.
Morning Tea/Lunch: Bunnings will be providing morning tea. After the garden talk, it is planned that lunch will be at South Central Café, 10-16 South Street, Rydalmere. The Cafe is a 5 minute drive away from Bunnings and there is parking available outside the café.
The Garden Group had good fortune with the weather again as we spent a lovely day on 11 July at Eryldene Historic House and Garden, which is located in Gordon. We started our visit with morning tea and our Probus group of 19 members were then split into 2 groups to make the tours more manageable and more personal. The gardener at Eryldene took one group around the garden while the other group was divided further into smaller groups to tour the house.
We found out that the house was designed and built by the architect Hardy Wilson in consultation with Professor Eben Gowrie Waterhouse in 1914. We were all required to wear booties in the house as the carpet dates back to 1914. We learnt about the lifestyle of the Professor, his wife, Janet and their family as well as the Professor’s passion for languages and camellias. The four tour guides were all very enthusiastic about the history of the house and garden. Afterwards, we continued on to the Greengate Hotel in Killara for a delicious lunch.
For our next activity, the Gardening Group will be visiting:
Bunnings at Rydalmere for a garden talk (to be confirmed)
Date : Wednesday 7 August 2023
Please note that the Garden group day for this month has changed from Thursday to Wednesday due to the Bunnings garden schedule.
Where : The Garden Centre at Bunnings - 316 Victoria Road, Rydalmere.
Meet: For carpooling purposes, be at West Pennant Hills Sports Club for a 9am departure. Please let me know if you require transport or are able to car pool. Please advise me also if you are going straight to Bunnings. It is approximately a 30 minute drive. We will meet outside the Bunnings’ Garden Centre entrance at about 9.40am for the 10am talk.
Morning Tea/Lunch: Bunnings will be providing morning tea. After the garden talk, it is planned that lunch will be at South Central Café, 10-16 South Street, Rydalmere. The Cafe is a 5 minute drive away from Bunnings and there is parking available outside the café.
Photos From Eryldene Visit
Leader - Julie Stinson

Golf Club - July 2024 (otherwise called The Bunker News)
HELLO Probus Members
Our July game was played at Stonecutter Ridge just off the M7 near Marsden Park. We were all pleasantly surprised that the course was open as it was very wet on and off the course.
Fun was had by all, with some playing 18 hole and the rest 9 holes followed by a great lunch in the Stonecutters club house.
Our next game will be on Friday 2nd August at Gordon Golf Club, at the time of this report it is still very wet and some holes are still closed and no carts so stand bye for an email from Jeff regarding same.
HELLO Probus Members
Our July game was played at Stonecutter Ridge just off the M7 near Marsden Park. We were all pleasantly surprised that the course was open as it was very wet on and off the course.
Fun was had by all, with some playing 18 hole and the rest 9 holes followed by a great lunch in the Stonecutters club house.
Our next game will be on Friday 2nd August at Gordon Golf Club, at the time of this report it is still very wet and some holes are still closed and no carts so stand bye for an email from Jeff regarding same.

We play social golf, catering for all levels, please let us know if you would like to join us.

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 - July 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 – Donna Fraser

Probus Photography July Report
At our July meeting we had a video on how to take images in the forest. Lighting is very difficult in a forest and often the images are flat. The video gave some great tips, particularly on taking close-up images when the light is not in your favour.
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.
At our July meeting we had a video on how to take images in the forest. Lighting is very difficult in a forest and often the images are flat. The video gave some great tips, particularly on taking close-up images when the light is not in your favour.
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.
- Image of the Month
- Facebook site Image
Set Subject for August Meeting
Out set subject for August is Monochrome. The link below gives 5 tips on how to shoot monochrome images.
Bing Videos
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 August 7th at the Clarke’s residence at 7:30pm.
Meetings are the first Wednesday of each month, everyone is welcome.
Out set subject for August is Monochrome. The link below gives 5 tips on how to shoot monochrome images.
Bing Videos
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 August 7th at the Clarke’s residence at 7:30pm.
Meetings are the first Wednesday of each month, everyone is welcome.
Images From Open Album
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone

TEN PIN BOWLING REPORT - July 2024
As mentioned in my previous report we did not bowl this month due to school holidays.
Next month Ten Pin Bowling will take place on Friday morning 23 August.
Usual drill will apply, with a text from me to those on my list asking for a return text from those wishing to play.
If you are not on my list & wish to be added, please let me know at meeting, or text me
Leader - Doug Matthews

Tennis Group Report- July 2024
We have had members holidaying and some sickness but we have ploughed on regardless. We even had a morning where we played singles.
It is still pretty cold at 8.30am but the mornings are starting to get warmer.
If you would like to come along and join us, please let me know. All levels of play works for us.
We play on Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill.
Leader - Bob Davison
We have had members holidaying and some sickness but we have ploughed on regardless. We even had a morning where we played singles.
It is still pretty cold at 8.30am but the mornings are starting to get warmer.
If you would like to come along and join us, please let me know. All levels of play works for us.
We play on Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill.
Leader - Bob Davison

Live Theatre July 2024
Our next theatre party will be to see Shrek the Musical presented by Sydney Youth Musical Theatre at the Riverside Theatre Parramatta on Friday 18 October at 7:30pm with an interest sheet issued at our next meeting.
Based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film, it is a Tony Award-winning fairy tale adventure, featuring all new songs from Jeanine Tesori (Thoroughly Modern Millie; Caroline, or Change) and a side-splitting book by David Lindsay-Abaire. Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears.
Reminder Luzia Payments now due:
Again, thank you for your continued support as our theatre party to Luzia presented by Cirque Du Soleil is now fully subscribed with 57 attending on Thursday 12 December 2024 at 8:00pm.
The ticket price inclusive of return coach travel will be $126 each with our coach leaving West Pennant Hills at 6:30pm that evening. Arrival time at the Entertainment Quarter should be just after 7:00pm, providing limited time to have a drink and food at one of the many food outlets situated in the area.
As we now need to pay for deposits etc. -Please now confirm your place by subscribing to that evening by 31 August as follows:
Payment Details:
WEST PENNANT HILLS/DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT
Description: Surname LUZIA
Leaders - Bruce & Robyn Bartle

Walking Group July 2024
The walk on Tuesday June 25th around Castle Hill Bushland, from Castle Hill Towers to Showground Metro, followed by the metro travel back to Castle Hill was enjoyed by all whom attended. As this was only a 3km walk, some members actually walked back. Coffee & cake was enjoyed at Comos.
The ‘Second Tuesday of the month’ walk from Norwest to Bella Vista Metro Stations was cancelled due to rain.
The next walk will be on July 23rd 2024. This walk is from Pennant Hill Train station to Epping Station via the upper Lane Cove River. Changing the direction, (from the last newsletter) makes the walk mostly downhill (but not completely). Then we will catch the train back to Pennant Hills.
This is a hard Grade 3 walk, on all types of track, (from the very good to bush track). This walk gets you under the M2 and Epping Rd, for a total of 8.4km one way, mostly downhill, with limited facilities. We will need to watch out for tree roots, rocky paths, and steep downhill concrete paths. There is no mud, and no wet river crossings.
The walk is expected to take 3 hours, plus lunch, starting at 10am, we should be able to leave Pennant Hills Pub at 2:30pm to pick up grandchildren. We will be walking thru Lane Cove National Park, Pennant Hills Park and forget that we are in the heart of a big city.
Please advise if you intend to participate by email to Enio Dona.
Details of the walk, July 23rd 2024
Meet: Meet at Pennant Hill Pub Car park. It should take you 15 minutes car travel from Castle hill.
When: Tuesday July 23rd 2024
Time: 10:00am. Normal start at the Pub Car park
Walk: Pennant Hills Train station to Epping Train Station via the Lane Cove River, return by train to the Pennant Hills pub for lunch.
Parking: Free parking at the pub.
Coffee: Coffee NOT available for walk.
Toilets: Near the beginning of walk. None available until the end.
Lunch: Pennant Hill Pub
Please bring a hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes, Opal card, some snacks & water and a smile.
Please advise by email to Enio Dona if you intend to participate in the walks above.
The walk on Tuesday June 25th around Castle Hill Bushland, from Castle Hill Towers to Showground Metro, followed by the metro travel back to Castle Hill was enjoyed by all whom attended. As this was only a 3km walk, some members actually walked back. Coffee & cake was enjoyed at Comos.
The ‘Second Tuesday of the month’ walk from Norwest to Bella Vista Metro Stations was cancelled due to rain.
The next walk will be on July 23rd 2024. This walk is from Pennant Hill Train station to Epping Station via the upper Lane Cove River. Changing the direction, (from the last newsletter) makes the walk mostly downhill (but not completely). Then we will catch the train back to Pennant Hills.
This is a hard Grade 3 walk, on all types of track, (from the very good to bush track). This walk gets you under the M2 and Epping Rd, for a total of 8.4km one way, mostly downhill, with limited facilities. We will need to watch out for tree roots, rocky paths, and steep downhill concrete paths. There is no mud, and no wet river crossings.
The walk is expected to take 3 hours, plus lunch, starting at 10am, we should be able to leave Pennant Hills Pub at 2:30pm to pick up grandchildren. We will be walking thru Lane Cove National Park, Pennant Hills Park and forget that we are in the heart of a big city.
Please advise if you intend to participate by email to Enio Dona.
Details of the walk, July 23rd 2024
Meet: Meet at Pennant Hill Pub Car park. It should take you 15 minutes car travel from Castle hill.
When: Tuesday July 23rd 2024
Time: 10:00am. Normal start at the Pub Car park
Walk: Pennant Hills Train station to Epping Train Station via the Lane Cove River, return by train to the Pennant Hills pub for lunch.
Parking: Free parking at the pub.
Coffee: Coffee NOT available for walk.
Toilets: Near the beginning of walk. None available until the end.
Lunch: Pennant Hill Pub
Please bring a hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes, Opal card, some snacks & water and a smile.
Please advise by email to Enio Dona if you intend to participate in the walks above.
Leaders - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson

Wine & Cheese July 2024
Thanks to Rosemary and Rob for hosing the “Wear a Hat” themed July Wine & Cheese, on a cool winter’s night. We had 24 attendees and everyone’s head was kept warm with a vast collection of “Hats” on display. Rob was resplendent in 3 different hats throughout the evening.
The August Wine & Cheese will at the home of Susan and David Antonjuk on Friday 9th August. Hope to see you all there.
Leaders 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 for this month: Andrew Little
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