Newsletter No. 94 - March 2025

THE NEXT GENERAL MEETING  WILL BE HELD  AT THE CHERRYBROOK COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 10.30AM ON  WEDNESDAY 26th MARCH 2025.

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President's Report

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President’s Report - March 2025

​​We have all been very busy this last month. Considering how much rain we had mostly due to Cyclone Alfred I think only the walking activity had to be cancelled.

A number of us had headed north either by car, plane or ship and felt the effects of the cyclone.  To view the dangerous enormous seas, the strong winds and the destruction caused was a real eye opener. As far as I know we all escaped any harm!

This is the last month of the Probus Year and we will be having our AGM. This is where we take the time to reflect on the past year. In the Annual Report which all of the members should have received by email last week, each member of the committee took the opportunity to talk about what happened in their area of responsibility over the previous 12 months. I think this report expressed a number of points. We are a strong, active, social club who have fun participating in all the activities that our leaders manage extremely well. We are living up to the Probus mantra of Friendship, Fellowship and Fun!

As it is my last year as President I want to thank firstly my Management committee for their unswerving support. You cannot perform this role without knowing you have these people behind you. Secondly, I want to thank you the members for coming to the meetings, participating in the wonderful range of activities our leaders provide and being there for each other when your friendship and support are so greatly appreciated.

I want to wish Rosemary all the best in continuing the leadership of our club. I know you will give her all your support as we move onto many exciting times ahead.

Cathy Turner
President

Secretarial

Correspondence In 
  • ​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)

Treasurer's Report

TREASURER S REPORT For the Month ending 28 February 2025
GENERAL ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1 February 2025 $1,493.57
Interest $0.02
Deposits $0.00 Annual dues and joining fees received
$0.00
Expenses $0.00 PSPL Capitation fees / Fair Trading
$(177.00) Admin costs / Website Fees
$0.00 Speaker Costs / Welfare
$(245.00) Hornsby Council venue hire
$0.00 Morning teas
$0.00 Transfers to / (from) Activity A/c
$(62.00) New member costs
$(484.00)
Closing cash balance 28 February 2025 $1,009.59
ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1 February 2025 $10,576.45
Interest $4.63
Deposits $6,924.50 Newcastle
$0.00 Cards 500
$300.00 Golf Week
$180.00 Irish Lunch
$3,598.00 MJ the Musical
$688.00 Billy Elliot
$280.00 Naval Cruise
$100.00 $12,070.50 Temple
Deposits to be identified
Payments $(72.00) Transfer from fixes
$0.00 Newcastle
$0.00 Cards 500
$0.00 Golf Week
$(660.00) Irish Lunch
$(3,130.15) MJ the Musical
$0.00 Billy Elliot
$0.00 Naval Cruise
$0.00 $(3,862.15) Temple
Closing cash balance 28 February 2025 $18,789.43
Open Activities Balance
Newcastle $16,121.00
Cards 500 $190.00
Golf Week $789.80
Irish Lunch $0.00
MJ the Musical $467.85
Billy Elliot $688.00
Naval Cruise $280.00
Temple $100.00
$18,636.65
Add:
Activities surplus $152.78
Unresolved fixes $0.00
Bank balance $18,789.43
TERM DEPOSIT
The Term Deposit was rolled over in July at a value of $5,237.85, and has earned $61.35 this year,
at current interest rate of 4.75% p.a.
INTEREST
For this year, $9.56 has been received as interest General Account $0.04, Activities Account $9.52.
ACTIVITY SURPLUS
The Activity Surplus currently stands at $152.78.
Michael Stinson
Treasurer 28 February 2025
Michael Stinson​
Treasurer

Membership

Membership March 2025

As we close the 2024-2025 Probus Year, the current membership stands at 112 active members and 3 inactive, with a female to male ratio of 60:40.

A number of Certificates have still to be provided to members.

Replacement badges – these are ongoing.

Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings.


Please note that Probus Membership numbers can now be viewed in the private (login) section of the website.

They are in Information For Members/Probus Membership Numbers.

Please click HERE to view them.


Paul Day – Membership Officer

Welfare

WELFARE REPORT March 2025

​Good morning, all.

This month has been quite healthy for us all, and we are all settling in for another year of outings, meetings and all-round fun times.

Please take care and take all precautions to avoid Covid as is still around us.
I was glad to see Barbara back on her feet and able to attend the last meeting. Welcome back Barbara. It’s been a long way to recovery for you but here you are back and able to join us once again. We missed you.

A few already know that Cathy T has a tough few months ahead of her. We would all like to wish you well Cathy and thinking positive thoughts for a good outcome. You and David are everyone’s friend, and we are all here to support you both. Good luck as your journey begins.

I would like to thank Chris Ellis for being my back up this year and thank you to Jan Hookkee for offering to come on board for 2026. The position is open until the AGM so if anyone else would like to be nominated please do so.
 Many of you have been travelling already this year and the trips look amazing. Wishing you all happy, healthy and fun times for your future travels. This is the great part of retirement. My only advice is (if I can give it) to do it NOW and don’t wait as we never know what is around the corner.

Signing off as your 2024/25 Welfare Officer

Toni Smith

Toni Smith  – Welfare Officer
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No March Guest Speaker - AGM
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February Meeting Photos

​Where Not To Leave Your Phone At A Probus Meeting!

Contributed by Anonymous........
​(it had a happy ending!)

Birthday  Celebrations

 Happy Birthday
 To all our members
Celebrating a birthday in March 2025
​
Susan Antonjuk
René Beutler
Bev Dona
Estelle Graham
Stuart Mitchell
KarinR egel
Jan Ridge
Hilda Somerfield
Kristine Ward
Elizabeth Wojtczak

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 2025 Newsletter by Friday 18 April 2025 (Good Friday!).

 Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-

WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2025 04

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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
Tai Chi Helen Baptiste
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.

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‘Books: Uniquely Portable Magic’ – UP’M! Challenge 

 UPM! A new challenge begins, running from March ‘25 to end February ‘26.

​There were some outstanding recommendations for others to read in TBT – 116 of them. Time to join us on our new challenge.
Join at any time – set your own challenge for UPM. Calculate the average number of books you would read in a month, multiply it by the number of months up to the end of February ‘26 … +ONE more. And you are in the Challenge! Choose your own books, 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.
March reads:

Caught  by Harlan Coben: The reader is over this author – a string of misses. While most of his stories transfer well to Netflix, the books tend to be too long and drawn out to read.

A Calamity of Souls by David Baldacci: As usual a great read from this author. It’s 1968 and a duo of black and white lawyers are representing a black man wrongly accused of murdering his husband and wife employers. The lawyers are working in a deeply unfair system and the story follow their flight in court to prove the innocence of their client. Couldn’t put the book down as the lawyers gradually were able to turn the tide against them whilst overcoming some harrowing personal situations.

The Perfect Assassin by James Patterson and Brian Sitts: A top secret training program to creat the perfect assassin. But it not what you really think. The reader enjoyed the suspense. James Patterson is great at creating the visuals while you read.

The Valley by Chris Hammer: This was a great read full of twists – as seems to be the case with this author. The Valley is a beautiful country place where nothing is quite as it seems. Ever since we read one of his books in book club this author is a great favourite of many.

Filthy Rich by Wendy Holden: A story set in the Midlands of England. Residents are asked to put their names in a ballot box for the allocation of 13 land allotments for the production of veggies, plants etc. The fun starts when a hoard of Roman gold is dug up and the allotment holders fight amongst themselves as to who should keep the gold. When the archaeologists arrive and uncover Roman ruins, the London Museum then claims the lot. A good light read.

The Library of Borrowed Hearts by Lucy Gilmore: a young girl is struggling to take care of her siblings after her mother walked out. As an assistant librarian, she comes across a rare old book, with love notes in between its margins. She is shocked to discover her cranky old neighbour is somehow involved. She sets about to discover the truth and her neighbour’s long lost lady friend. A good read.

Take me Home by Karly Lane: This was a bit of a surprise. Elle, with roots in Scotland, is the odd one out in her family. When her grandmother dies, her will asks Elle to take her ashes back to Scotland. They had wanted to go back together but this was the only way left. Elle leaves her overbearing, over achieving family to carry out her Nan’s wishes and it becomes a journey to find out who she really is. Surprisingly warm and caring novel.
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Tilt by Chris Hammer: Yes, another one by Hammer, and it didn’t fail to grab you by the throat and drag you into all the intrigue. Number 2 in the series Lucic and Buchanan. The discovery of a body from a cold case, decades old, brings a whole series of questions into the present, as secrets of the past are revealed. Nell, a newly appointed detective, has to face the secrets of her own family to solve the case. Gripping.
Hope to see more of you join. Sue Calabrese

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​Leader: Sue Calabrese
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Book Club Report - March 2024

​A slightly different report as I am travelling and don’t have access to my usual folders.
Our last book club meeting was held at Sue Calabrese home, thanks Sue.  The group received the latest book, The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh.

The story is about Victoria Jones who by the age of 18 had lived in 32 foster homes and became a flower arranger. It was inspired by a flower dictionary.



Next meeting should be at my place on Thurs 24th April.

Cheers from Japan

Bev​
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Leader - Bev Davison




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The Victorian language of flowers was used to convey romantic expressions: honeysuckle for devotion, asters for patience, and red roses for love. But for Victoria Jones, it's been more useful in communicating mistrust and solitude. After a childhood spent in the foster-care system, she is unable to get close to anybody, and her only connection to the world is through flowers and their meanings.

​Now eighteen and emancipated from the system with nowhere to go, Victoria realizes she has a gift for helping others through the flowers she chooses for them. But an unexpected encounter with a mysterious stranger has her questioning what's been missing in her life. And when she's forced to confront a painful secret from her past, she must decide whether it's worth risking everything for a second chance at happiness.

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Cards Report for March
​
It was a big night at our last card evening….35 players! Lots of fun and chatter.

Our next card evening is on:

Date: Friday 28 March 2025
Where: Dural Club
Time: 7pm cards start
Dinner: 5.45pm
$5 per head to play



An email with details for dinner and cards intention to play has gone out to players on the interest list.

If you would like to be added to the interest list please let either Cathy or David know.
​
See you on Friday!

Cathy (David’s PA)

Leader - David Turner
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Cycling Group: March 2025

This month’s ride commenced from the Rydalmere Ferry Carpark before heading west to the ferry terminal at Parramatta. After a quick drink stop, the group of keen riders rode down along the pathways to Meadowbank for a well earned coffee break. Following the break, it was a leisurely ride back to Rydalmere.  (Approx. Distance 20.0kms)
 
NOTE: Next month’s ride will commence from the Waterview Cafe Carpark in Bicentennial Park (Homebush) and follow the bike paths in and around the parklands. (Approx. distance – 16kms).
 
Date: Wednesday 16th April 2025 (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
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Anniversary Cruise:
Sydney under Japanese Attack
Sunday 1st June
Cost $70

To download flyer click HERE

Temple Tales
A guided minibus tour
Monday 28th April

To download flyer click HERE

Photos from Saint Patrick's Day Lunch - Monday 10th March

Leader - Helen Games
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Dining Out March 2025

Marilyn Savic is hosting the next dining out for lunch 12.00noon at the Winston Hotel, 170 Caroline Chisholm Drive, Winston Hills on the 4th April.  


Can members please let her know if attending so she can confirm numbers.


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 in 2025.
Leader - Looking For Monthly Leaders
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Newcastle - Monday 31 March to Thursday 3 April 2025


Further to last month’s newsletter, except for the ‘At Your Leisure’, this is basically an update.
Unfortunately, we have had to find another operator for our morning cruise. The operator of ‘William the Fourth” had to recently cancel all bookings due to the bureaucracy associated with registration renewal (a protracted, frustrating and ongoing exercise for the operator).

Please pay a further $10pp to cover the increased cost ($400.00) of chartering “Bay Connections 1” and identify your payment with your surname and Newcastle.

There is still an opportunity for a lady to share a twin room and no one on standby. Please contact me if interested in either.
 
Accommodation
The Terminus Apartment Hotel, 111 Scott St (Cnr. Bolton St).
Access to the multi-level carpark is off Bolton Street, on arrival please use the intercom and indicate you are with the Probus group. Some spaces are reserved for others in the complex.
Whilst the units are self-contained (BYO breakfast) for those wishing to dine out, there are abundant cafes.
The light rail passes our accommodation (150m to the Queens Wharf stop) about every seven minutes and every 15 minutes after 7.30pm. Don’t forget your Opal card.
 
Evening Meals
As previously advised:
  • Monday; Queens Wharf Hotel, 150 Wharf Rd, 6.30pm on the upper level, via stairs). About a 200m (five-minute) walk from our accommodation. https://www.queenswharfhotel.com.au/
  • Tuesday; The Lucky Hotel, 237 Hunter St, 6.30pm in the covered courtyard. Only one stop to Crown St station (adjacent the hotel) on the light rail from our accommodation. https://theluckyhotel.com.au/
  • Wednesday; Customs House Hotel, 1 Bond St, 5.30pm for 6.30pm in the restaurant.  We have a set menu that includes main (3 options), sides and dessert (2 options).
Suggest we start with drinks on the front terrace at 5.30pm.
Only a short 150m (three-minutes) walk from our accommodation.  https://customshouse.net.au/
  
Group Activities
  1. Tuesday, (new boat) ‘Bay Connections 1’, 9.00 (departs) to 11.00am. Moored at 3 Honeysuckle Drive. C
NOVA Cruises vessel “Bay Connections 1” is a 16 metre fibreglass semi-hydrofoil planing catamaran. The vessel was designed to operate in waters up to 300 nautical miles from the coastline. Having been constructed to this standard the vessel is extremely stable and offers a remarkably comfortable cruising experience. The vessel has two levels consisting of a main saloon with integrated wheelhouse, bar, and an upper sundeck.
Our two-hour charter is inclusive of complimentary tea, coffee & hot chocolate with biscuits.
Cruises start boarding 15 minutes prior to departure times. Due to operational requirements and respect for fellow cruisers it is not always possible to delay a cruise for latecomers.
It’s only two stops to Civic station on the light rail and then a 300m (five-minutes) walk.
Refer location map included in the photos. Moored 50m west (left of) of William the Fourth.
 
Wednesday, Fort Scratchley
We have booked a full tunnel tour at 10.30am and a modified tour at 10.50am. We had to book two tours to accommodate our group. Allowing time to take in the views both tours should conclude by 12.30.
Parking is available if you prefer not to walk the 950m (fifteen-minute) gentle uphill walk from our accommodation.
 
At Your Leisure
Generally, as previously advised, with a bit more detail on the options.
Monday afternoon,
Stockton - For maritime history and a spectacular coastal landscape. Stockton Ferry (Opal card), A short ferry ride from Queens Wharf is Stockton. It 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.
 
Tuesday afternoon
Following our cruise, there is ample time to take in the Honeysuckle promenade, and its numerous attractions, such as the boardwalk, cafés, the Newcastle Museum (free entry), Stockton Ferry, plus at the eastern end of Honeysuckle, Nobby’s Beach and lighthouse.

The Newcastle Museum brings to life significant moments of past, present and future in three major permanent exhibitions. The Newcastle Story explores the natural environment, Newcastle’s people and stories. Fire and Earth unveil the hot and heavy industrial heart of the Hunter in a spectacular showcase of the region’s major industries. In Supernova, science, maths and engineering are the nuts and bolts of these interactive exhibits that challenge, inspire and engage people of all ages. The Museum also hosts temporary and travelling exhibitions throughout the year. From blockbuster visiting shows to locally-based community exhibitions, the Museum ensures there is always something new to entice and interest visitors
Good lunch options are The Kingfish (dine-in or take away) for those who enjoy seafood or The Beehive Café both situated in the same building at 15 Honeysuckle Drive.  About 50m from where our boat is moored.
We are also adjacent the City Centre precinct-a mix of buildings, old and new, with rich architectural history blended with edgy new developments.

The civic precinct is a focal point of the city centre. Here you’ll find the relaxed greenery of Civic Park, the Newcastle Art Gallery (closed for serious renovations) and the 1,400-seat heritage listed Civic Theatre, which is home to dance, comedy, music and family shows.
Newcastle is also  home to world-class street art including the Inari mural on Newcastle University city campus and the Bronte Naylor mural on the exterior of Civic Theatre.
Iconic Civic Park is the green heart of the inner city, located proudly between Newcastle City Hall, the Newcastle Art Gallery and the Newcastle Regional Library. It offers large shady trees, tiered garden beds, war memorials, and expanses of lawn perfect for impromptu picnics.

Opened in 1929, Newcastle City Hall is one of Newcastle's most unique and prestigious venues. Its old-world charm and stunning architecture, including sandstone walls and pillars, marble staircases, a clock tower and a sweeping ballroom, are reminiscent of a bygone era.
All the above are relatively close together and within an easy walk of the light rail Civic station.
 

Wednesday afternoon
Following Fort Scratchley for those whose enjoy a scenic walk there is the Bathers Way providing two options from the fort:
  1. To the north, Nobbys Beach & Lighthouse with lunch at a Nobby’s Beach café.
  2. To the south Merewether Beach with lunch at say a Newcastle Beach café. This section of the walk is about 4.3 km (65 minutes). You can catch the No. ‘21’ bus back, (departs Watkins St, just after John St Merewether 3.14pm and 4.29pm and terminates 26 minutes later at the former Newcastle railway station, almost opposite our accommodation.

Alternatively, the Strzelecki lookout and Anzac Memorial Walk are only about 2.0km (30 minutes) from the fort. I suggest you detour on your return to include the Christchurch Cathedral.
Please note the section of the walk-through King Edward Park is reasonably steep with many steps. I suggest if you intend doing either of the above walks you skip the Bogey Hole and skirt the park (from Newcastle Beach to the Anzac Memorial Walk).

Bathers Way is a coast-hugging six-kilometre walk from Nobbys Lighthouse to Merewether Beach. Notable landmarks include Fort Scratchley, Nobbys, the spectacular Bogey Hole, all three-convict built, King Edward Park and enjoy the vistas from the clifftop Anzac Memorial Walk, including the Strzelecki lookout. After that you pass Bar Beach, Dixon Park and then Merewether, being one continuous long beach.

Foreshore Park is an 11-hectare regional level park bordering the harbour, beaches and culturally significant sites like Fort Scratchley, the convict lumberyard and Customs House. Most of the park sits on reclaimed land previously used for mining, shipping, harbour activities, power supply, bond storage and rail marshalling yards. Could be easily included on your return walk from Fort Scratchley or Nobbys.
 
Thursday Morning (on your way home)
If you haven’t already been there, drive through King Edward Park (the park has spectacular ocean views, Norfolk Island pines and a sunken garden usually ablaze with colour) and from there the southern end of Bathers Way, stopping at the various vista points. After that you could take the old Pacific Highway via Swansea, Doyalson and the ‘link road’ to the M1.
This would give you the option of visiting some of Newcastle other beaches such as Redhead, Blacksmiths, Caves Beach and/or Catherine Hill Bay. Lunch options include the Belmont 16s (footers) a large modern club or the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club an older club building and marina. Both clubs are on Lake Macquarie and offer good views. You also have the option of morning tea at 16s.

Payments
Thank you for making your respective payments.
Can you please pay a further $10pp to cover the increased cost ($400.00) of chartering another boat for our harbour cruise. Please identify your payment with your surname and Newcastle. 
Except for the specified costs, it is best if all other costs, e.g. breakfasts, lunches, dinners,
drinks and other activities are paid for separately by the participants.

Please note; there are cancellation fees applicable for both the Lucky Hotel ($35.00pp) and Customs House ($40.00pp) for less than 24 hours’ notice of a decrease in our numbers.
 
Participants 
Links
This link is on Bathers Way, one of the best coastal walks in Australia
https://youtu.be/tgnETHbcLFE
 
Bathers Way Map
https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/getmedia/5BA4469A-0EA4-4C31-BF8C-0D89724BCEF3/Bathers-Way-Map_web.pdf
 
These links also provide some good insights into some Newcastle’s attractions:
https://www.visitnewcastle.com.au/see-do/precincts
 
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/
 
 Activity Leader
Max Henderson 

Cowra & Lachlan Valley – Sunday 14 to Thursday 18 September 2025

We announced details of this trip via email last Monday evening (17 March) and by Tuesday evening had thirty members interested.
 
Subsequently, we forwarded these people the Trade Travel booking form who will manage this trip, including deposits and final payments.
 
Whilst I didn’t specify:
  • please complete the two-page form and email to Trade Travel
  • pay $200 deposit per person into the nominated Trade Travel account, and
  • identify your payment with Surname/WPH140925 (as per the Booking form)
 
For those that missed the email:

Announcing details of our second ‘Domestic Travel’ trip for 2025.
We looked at three options for this Cowra trip:
  • Self-drive
  • XPT train (return) to Blaney and chartering a local coach, or a
  • Packaged coach deal from Sydney (Cherrybrook)
 
By far, the best option in our view is the comprehensive package provided from Trade Travel. Please refer to their attached itinerary, including tour costs and deposit details.
As the minimum number is twenty (and indicative maximum is forty) we need to know we have the numbers to go ahead. At this stage we do not need a deposit.

Simply advise me via email asap of your interest.

Once we have a satisfactory indication of our numbers, we will forward you their booking form.
Any questions, please give me a call.
It’s not too late, just send me an email and I will forward you the booking form. 
To download the PDF of the flyer, click HERE
Leader - Max Henderson
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Garden Group – March 2025

During March, thirteen Garden Group members attended a tour of the Plant Bank and the National Herbarium which are located within the Mount Annan Botanic Gardens. Our tour guide showed us that NSW has a world class facility which houses over one million plant specimens. Everyone was amazingly impressed with the PlantBank and the Herbarium.
 
 Our next Garden Group day will be visiting:
 
The Grounds of Alexandria
 
Established in 2012, the Grounds of Alexandria sets out to be an urban oasis where a former pie factory was transformed into an industrial-chic café with an ever-changing themed garden.
 
Recognised as one of the world’s most instagrammable destinations, the Grounds are bringing to life the story of Snow White in the enchanted forest.
 
Date:   Friday 11 April 2025
Time:   10:30am
Address:   7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria. 

Please let me know if you require transport or are able to car pool.
For those members who are driving straight to the Grounds, please note that parking is limited and entry to the parking is via 2 Huntley Street, Alexandria
The drive from West Pennant Hills Sports Club to the Grounds of Alexandria is approximately a 1 hour.
Brunch: Approximately 10.30am at the Grounds of Alexandria
If you are interested in attending please contact me either by email or SMS by Tuesday 8 April 2025
 
Garden Activity Leader – Julie Stinson  

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Photos From Mount Annan Botanic Gardens
Leader - Julie Stinson
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PictureTerry & Jeff
Golf Club - March 2025  (otherwise called The Bunker News)

​​HELLO Probus Members
 
Our game for March was played at Gordon Golf Club. We had 8 players who thoroughly enjoyed themselves on the course. That’s what they told me at least.
The weather was overcast and we were lucky to finish as light rain began to fall. This was followed by lunch at the Pennant Hills Hotel.
 
Our next game will be in April so standby for an email to confirm the details.
 
We play social golf catering for all levels, please let us know if you would like to join us.
PictureGrandad
Yours in Fun, Fellowship & Friendship

Leaders - Terry Ridge & Jeff Swan
WPH&D Probus Inc - Golf Coordinators
Author: TAR
Edited by: J Swan

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Men's Club - March 2025

Our next activity will be on Wednesday 9th April. Meeting at the community centre car park at 11:00am, then car pool up to Mooney Mooney club for lunch at midday. 

Please advise me if attending for booking purposes. 


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​Leader - Rene Beutler
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Mixed Social Group - Coffee Morning

Everyone welcome to join in this very non strenuous activity.

Meets last Monday of the month.
PLACE : Castle Hill RSL, Bistro Area

The next morning tea will be:

Monday 31st March @  10:30am



All members are welcome.  Looking forward to seeing you there!

Leader- Helen Beutler
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​Movie Group - March 2025

​​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
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Probus Photography March 2025 Report

April Photography Meeting
Due to the extensive travelling by our coordinators, we have not been able to have photography report this year. Usually, it is on the 1st Wednesday of the month but due to our coordinators being away it will be on the 9th of April which is the 2nd Wednesday. In May we will go back to the first Wednesday.

The Photography Facebook Site.
Even though we haven’t met our photographers post images on the Facebook site. Some of the images posted recently are:
Set Subject for April Meeting
Our set subject for the April meeting is to post 5 of the best images you have taken since our last meeting. An album has been created on Facebook site.

Facebook Site
The link to the group Facebook site 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 April 9th at the Clarke’s residence at 7:30pm.  There will be a presentation on Artificial Intelligence and how it impacts photography. If we have some additional time, we will also look at the processing tools that are now available on free software.
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Rob Clarke
Activity Coordinator
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone​
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Tai Chi  ​
To download the flyer click HERE
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March Report

Our second activity for the year took place last Friday with a healthy 13 players, after a late scratching.
 
Previously the girls have threatened to beat the boys and finally it happened, with Hilda coming out on top in game one by a very comfortable margin from David who just nudged Jeanette. In fact, Hilda’s score was the best recorded over the two games played.
 
Hilda, sportingly opted to only play one game to save the boys further embarrassment.
 
David, not to be denied, came back to win game two in front of John, Eric and a fast finishing Julie.
 
There will be no Ten Pin Bowling in April due to school holidays & the Easter long weekend, hence our next game will be held on Friday, 16 May.
Leader - Doug Matthews
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​Tennis Group Report- March 2025
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Bev & I are away now for a few weeks and have left the activity in Michael Stinson’s capable hands.
 
We play on Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill. 
 

Leader - Bob Davison
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Live Theatre March 2025

​MJ the Musical:
Our theatre party to MJ the Musical at the Lyric Theatre on Wednesday 26 March 2025 is now fully subscribed and again thank-you to everybody for getting back to us promptly and for your ongoing support!!
 
 Places were restricted to just 24 due to bus size with an email confirming all details to all attendees sent recently.
 
Bus will be departing WPH Sports Club at 5:45pm that evening.
 


Billy Elliot the Musical:

Our April 2025 theatre party is to Billy Elliot presented by Sydney Youth Musical Theatre at the Glen Street Theatre, Belrose on Wednesday 23 April at 7:30pm.
 
Tickets are just $86 each (Inclusive of return coach travel), with just 2 tickets currently available, please contact Bruce or Robyn urgently if interested.
 
 Pick up is 6:15pm, from West Pennant Hills Sports Club that evening.
 
 SYMT shows are always a very high standard (per Shrek, School of Rock and The Little Mermaid all previously presented at Riverside Parramatta) your support is always much appreciated!
 
Payment Details:
WEST PENNANT HILLS/DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT

Description: Surname Billy E
 
Millions of fans... thousands of standing ovations... ten Tony Awards, including Best Musical.... Billy Elliot The Musical, the spectacular show with the heart, humour and passion to be named TIME Magazine's "Best Musical of the Decade!" 
 
 Based on the international smash-hit film, and featuring a score by music legend Elton John, Billy Elliot is an astonishing theatrical experience that will stay with you forever.​
Leaders - Bruce & Robyn Bartle
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Walking Group February 2025

Thank you to all the members that joined the last walk from the QVB to Pyrmont Point Hotel.  I am sorry that I could not join you on the day, but I have reports that Derek did an excellent on my behalf.  It turned out to be a lovely day and it is an interesting section of the harbour from a history and photography point of view.  The group photo was taken by our resident photography expert Rob Clarke.

Again many thanks to Derek and well done!

The next walk will be the Cheltenham Bush area.  It is half on well maintained bush track and half on a sealed road.  We will cross the railway track, head into the bush get to the M2, walk under the M2, and walk back via Sutherland Road. The walk is 4.8km in length, about 90mins and has a number of small uphill inclines.
Details of the walk, Tues Mar 11th 2025

  Meet:  Meet on the street outside the Cheltenham Recreation Club, 60-74 The Crescent, Cheltenham.
  When:  Tuesday March 11th 2025.
  Time:  10:00am.
  Walk:  See description above
  Parking: Parking on the street outside the club, or in the Cheltenham Recreation Club car park.
  Coffee:  At the beginning or the end of the walk at Molly’s Pavilion.
  Toilets:  At the beginning & end of walk, but no toilets on route.
  Lunch:  Lunch or Coffee at the Cheltenham Recreation Club.

Please bring a hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes & water and a smile. 

Leaders - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson

Photo From Last Walk

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Wine & Cheese February 025
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Thank you to Glenda and Tony Coote for hosting the first Wine & Cheese of 2025. There were 17 attendees who enjoyed a balmy evening of conversation, wine and food.
 
The next Wine & Cheese will be held at the home  of Diedre Clarke and Eric Scheeren on Friday 14th March.

 
We look forward to seeing you all there.
Leaders  Julie Shenstone & Susan Antonjuk
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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.
Newsletter Editor for this month: Enio Dona