President's Report

President’s Report - May 2025
So many activities are full steam ahead – morning coffee, gardening, tai chi, golf, walking, dining out, tennis, table tennis, ten pin bowling, day outings, men’s club and many more. As a club we are so lucky to have wonderful activities for all of us to do. As they say, “use it or lose it!” Thank you to all our activity leaders for your hard work.
As you read this newsletter, many in our club are on their way to Albury for a golfing trip. Please enjoy your meeting with David Antonjuk filling in for me and Helen Beutler as the MC. It is bound to be a wonderful meeting and a hard act to follow! If your activity leader is absent from the meeting, please read this newsletter for any information. A big thank you to all those who are stepping up at the meeting – I hope your experience is an enjoyable one.
With winter approaching, make sure you are up to date with any immunisations as our health is so important. Just try to keep well, eat heathy, keep moving and stay connected to family and friends! Please remember to let Jan Hookkee or Lorraine Sutton know if we can help in any way.
Next month, some of the committee is attending an information meeting at Thornleigh Community Centre to find out more about the proposed changes to our constitution and standing resolutions (by-laws).
Hopefully we can fill you in at our June meeting.
So, enjoy the rest of Autumn and have fun, friendship and fellowship.
Rosemary Clarke
President
PROBUS FACTS
In May 1966, a committee was formed with Harold Blanchard as Chairman. The name “Probus” was proposed by a member who suggested taking the first three letters from PROfessional and BUSiness”. Hence the term PROBUS was decided.
So many activities are full steam ahead – morning coffee, gardening, tai chi, golf, walking, dining out, tennis, table tennis, ten pin bowling, day outings, men’s club and many more. As a club we are so lucky to have wonderful activities for all of us to do. As they say, “use it or lose it!” Thank you to all our activity leaders for your hard work.
As you read this newsletter, many in our club are on their way to Albury for a golfing trip. Please enjoy your meeting with David Antonjuk filling in for me and Helen Beutler as the MC. It is bound to be a wonderful meeting and a hard act to follow! If your activity leader is absent from the meeting, please read this newsletter for any information. A big thank you to all those who are stepping up at the meeting – I hope your experience is an enjoyable one.
With winter approaching, make sure you are up to date with any immunisations as our health is so important. Just try to keep well, eat heathy, keep moving and stay connected to family and friends! Please remember to let Jan Hookkee or Lorraine Sutton know if we can help in any way.
Next month, some of the committee is attending an information meeting at Thornleigh Community Centre to find out more about the proposed changes to our constitution and standing resolutions (by-laws).
Hopefully we can fill you in at our June meeting.
So, enjoy the rest of Autumn and have fun, friendship and fellowship.
Rosemary Clarke
President
PROBUS FACTS
In May 1966, a committee was formed with Harold Blanchard as Chairman. The name “Probus” was proposed by a member who suggested taking the first three letters from PROfessional and BUSiness”. Hence the term PROBUS was decided.
Secretarial
Correspondence In
- None
- 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 - May 2025
Michael Stinson
Treasurer
Treasurer
Membership
Membership May 2025
The current membership stands at 112 active members and 3 inactive, with a female to male ratio of 60:40
Membership Certificates for those who were not formally inducted through Covid have been prepared and signed and will be given out to those members at upcoming meetings.
Replacement badges – we will be asking members for any replacement badge orders on a six monthly basis.
Please remember to wear your name badges to the monthly meetings.
A reminder of our Club policies for attendance at meetings and activities.
Paul Day – Membership Officer
The current membership stands at 112 active members and 3 inactive, with a female to male ratio of 60:40
Membership Certificates for those who were not formally inducted through Covid have been prepared and signed and will be given out to those members at upcoming meetings.
Replacement badges – we will be asking members for any replacement badge orders on a six monthly basis.
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.
Paul Day – Membership Officer
Welfare
WELFARE REPORT May 2025
I will be away from Thursday 5 June 2025 returning Tuesday 15 July 2025and during this time Lorraine Sutton will cover the Welfare Officer role.
If anyone hears of a member who’s not well, or is struggling with family illness or other issues please let me know and I will follow up, also anyone just wanting a good old fashioned chat please don’t hesitate to call me or email me directly.
Jan Hookkee – Welfare Officer
I will be away from Thursday 5 June 2025 returning Tuesday 15 July 2025and during this time Lorraine Sutton will cover the Welfare Officer role.
If anyone hears of a member who’s not well, or is struggling with family illness or other issues please let me know and I will follow up, also anyone just wanting a good old fashioned chat please don’t hesitate to call me or email me directly.
Jan Hookkee – Welfare Officer
April Guest Speaker - Gabi McCauley
This months guest speaker will be Gabi McCauley who will be speaking about "A Day in the Life of a First Responder".
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 June 2025 Newsletter by Friday 20th June 2025
Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-
WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions – 2025_06
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 |
Table Tennis | Enio Dona |
Tai Chi | Helen Games |
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.
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.

‘Books: Uniquely Portable Magic’ – UPM! Challenge
UPM! A new challenge begins, running from March ‘25 to end February ‘26.
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.
April reads: This month: 13; total: 28.
The Language of Flowers by Vanessa Diffenbaugh: Book Club read. Reviewed in last NL.
The Visitor by Lee Child: Jack Reacher thriller. An exciting thriller with a good twist! With Lee Child you know you’re in for an exciting ride. If you like this type of book then you’ll enjoy this one.
Hook, Line and Sinker by Tessa Bailey: Boy meets girl – become friends – fall in love – won’t admit it to each other. The storyline behind all this was ok but the indecisions and characters dragged the whole thing out.
The Eulogy by Jackie Bailey: Kathy is to write her sister’s (Annie) eulogy, attempting to understand the family history – the Japanese occupation in Singapore, the Malay conflict and the Vietnam war, Annie’s cancer and disability. All events that have shaped the person that Kathy is today.
Unique – a memoir by Kelly Holmes: Kellie’s memories of her life from a child originally abandoned by her mother, to a 10 year stint in the army, to elite Olympic athlete and finally toaccepting her sexuality. A very enjoyable book.
No One Saw It Coming by Susan Lewis: Well, you could see it coming but it was still a very good read. All seems well in the family, even with the single teenage mum with an axe to grind. Then a too good to be true really lovely Irish lady appears on the scene. She is not all she seems to be.
Brain Storm by Richard Scoly with Garry Maddox: Scoly was a co-Australian of the Year. This book is a good read about his life journey as a doctor, doing ground breaking implementation of new treatments for melanoma, aiming at reducing deaths to nil in Australia, then applying them to brain tumour and other cancers, after he was diagnosed with brain cancer. A very honest depiction of how different it is being a patient as opposed to being the doctor, particularly emotionally.
Prima Facie by Suzie Miller: Book Club read and enjoyable. Tessa ia a brilliant young barrister from a working-class background now at the top of her game. One sickening night she fids herself in a position – one in three – have been in before her. She must decide if she will testify about her rape, knowing full well that the system has not been built to protect her.
Holmes, Margaret and Poe by James Patterson & Brian Sitts: another good thriller. Three investigators and a good mystery to solve kept the reader interested. Not a long read. The story is divided into lots of chapters, each continuing on with either the current situation or another character. The short chapters kept the story moving along.
Midnight at the Tuscany Hotel by James Markert: Very different to what was expected by the title, as it was set in California, not Italy. The story touches on the mental effects of war, cruelty, abandonment, fear, heartbreak and the loss of memory. The sculptor, Robert, builds the Tuscany Hotel for his wife and muse and it flourishes as a haven for the creative and famous. Vitorio, the son and a gifted painter, comes back from war emotionally damaged, to find his father under the care of his wife, and suffering dementia. Robert reopens the hotel, and those who remember flock in – something in the water of the fountain brings back their lost memories and they can enjoy life – but it comes with a barb in the tale. This was a brilliant story with so much emotion, the finding of love again, and acceptance. Highly recommend this book.
Oh William by Elizabeth Strout: A very unusual book about Lucy and her relationship with her ex-husband, William. She newly widowed from her second and adored husband, she re-connects with William, who is now in his 3rd marriage. He is rather an odd character (a bit annoying and childlike) and is bereft when his 3rd wife just ups and leaves, taking their daughter with her, and most of the household furniture. He seems bewildered and leans on Lucy and her support when he discovers an unknown step sister. They set off to meet her, but the outcome is not what was expected. The emotions and relationships between all the characters is what makes the book, and Lucy herself shows herself to be both empathetic but comfortable in her own life alone. Another interesting book.
In Too Deep by Lee Child: Jack Reacher is chasing a rogue FBI agent, and a couple of crooks trying to steal a CNN shipment of gold. He is helped by Jenny Knight whose dad got shot by the crooks. A fair read.
The Seven by Chris Hammer: has been reviewed before, but again Hammer produces a thrilling action packed novel involving the 7 founding families of the Irrigation Scheme, the mafia, and a supreme con artist. Haven’t had any fails from this author.
Hope to see more of you join.
Leader: Sue Calabrese

Book Club Report - May 2025
We had our last meeting on 24th April. We had read "the Language of Flowers" by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. After discussing the book we received our current book "Prima Facie" by Suzie Miller.
Our next meeting is on 5th June at Sue Calabrese’s home as I will be overseas again.
Bev
Leader - Bev Davison
Tessa Ensler loves her job. She’s worked her way up to being a top criminal defence barrister against all the odds, and fights to defend those pleading not guilty. Tessa believes in the law, believes in the system. Her quick-witted cross-examinations and intelligence in the courtroom see her clocking up win after win - including securing freedom for men accused of rape and sexual assault. Innocence until proven guilty is, after all, the bedrock of a civilized society. But when Tessa is raped by a coworker, she struggles to find the strength to bring him to justice in the face of the barriers and opposition within that same system. Determined to have her day in court, Tessa is forced to confront the stark reality that the law was not written for victims, and that she is the one on trial. She fights on, even as her evidence is manipulated to make her look like a liar, even while she is retraumatized in the stand. |

Cards Report for May
Last card night we had 24 playing 500 and nearly everyone made it for dinner which is always a great start to the evening.
Our next card night will be Friday 23 May.
Where: Dural Club
Dinner Booking: 5.45pm
Cards start: 7pm
$5 per head to play.
An email will go out prior to the night to all those members on the interest list so we know numbers for dinner and those playing cards.
Looking forward to see you all there.
Cathy (David’s PA)
Leader - David Turner
Last card night we had 24 playing 500 and nearly everyone made it for dinner which is always a great start to the evening.
Our next card night will be Friday 23 May.
Where: Dural Club
Dinner Booking: 5.45pm
Cards start: 7pm
$5 per head to play.
An email will go out prior to the night to all those members on the interest list so we know numbers for dinner and those playing cards.
Looking forward to see you all there.
Cathy (David’s PA)
Leader - David Turner

Cycling Group: May 2025
This month’s ride commenced at the Rydalmere Ferry Terminal, then headed west along the Parramatta River to the UWS Campus before getting onto the new light rail cycle path. The group then headed north up to the Dundas Stop, where a couple of riders decided not to do the extra climb up to the Telopea Station stop. An “executive decision” was made that, a future ride along the light rail cycle path, will entail taking the light rail from Rydalmere to Carlingford and then ride back the hill! The group headed back down the line to Rosehill Station then, over the bridge above James Ruse Drive, then back over the Parramatta River via the Alfred Street Pedestrian/Cycle Bridge. The ride continued west along the north side of the river up to Parramatta Park for a well earned coffee break at the cafe adjacent to the historic Tudor Gatehouse and the end of George Street.
Following the coffee break the Group headed back along the Parramatta River to the Rydalmere Ferry Terminal.
The ride length was 17.90km with an elevation gain of 99.0m.
NOTE: Next month’s ride will start off from Cherrybrook Metro Station with a train trip to Bella Vista, followed by a return ride to Rouse Hill. The ride will be relatively easy and will follow the bike paths adjacent to the Norwest Metro Line. (Approx. distance – 16kms).
Date: Wednesday 18 th June 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
This month’s ride commenced at the Rydalmere Ferry Terminal, then headed west along the Parramatta River to the UWS Campus before getting onto the new light rail cycle path. The group then headed north up to the Dundas Stop, where a couple of riders decided not to do the extra climb up to the Telopea Station stop. An “executive decision” was made that, a future ride along the light rail cycle path, will entail taking the light rail from Rydalmere to Carlingford and then ride back the hill! The group headed back down the line to Rosehill Station then, over the bridge above James Ruse Drive, then back over the Parramatta River via the Alfred Street Pedestrian/Cycle Bridge. The ride continued west along the north side of the river up to Parramatta Park for a well earned coffee break at the cafe adjacent to the historic Tudor Gatehouse and the end of George Street.
Following the coffee break the Group headed back along the Parramatta River to the Rydalmere Ferry Terminal.
The ride length was 17.90km with an elevation gain of 99.0m.
NOTE: Next month’s ride will start off from Cherrybrook Metro Station with a train trip to Bella Vista, followed by a return ride to Rouse Hill. The ride will be relatively easy and will follow the bike paths adjacent to the Norwest Metro Line. (Approx. distance – 16kms).
Date: Wednesday 18 th June 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
A guided tour around
Parramatta Female Factory
Wednesday July 16th 2025
Photos from the Temple Tour
Leader - Helen Games

Dining Out May 2025
Toni and Ken Smith will be hosting the next Dining Out activity on Thursday 19th June.
Time : 11.30am
Venue : Baulkham Hills Sports Club
11 Renown Road,
Baulkham Hills.
Please let Toni know if you are attending by either signing the sheet at the meeting, messaging her on 0405 216 903 or by email on [email protected]
Good menu and plenty of parking.
Hope to see you there.
Toni needs to confirm bookings by the 12th June please.
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
Cowra & Lachlan Valley – Sunday 14 to Thursday 18 September 2025
The only real update to last month’s newsletter is as at the 16 May, there were only three rooms available at our motel.
Trade Travel now have deposits and booking forms from twenty-eight of our members for this trip.
The following is an extract from the Trade Travel website:
‘We are specialists in providing travel solutions for Probus Clubs, National Senior Clubs, Retirement Villages, over 50’s Leisure Centres, and various specialty groups. Our touring options span both national and international destinations, and each can be tailored specifically to meet your group's unique needs.’
From my perspective they have the industry contacts and experience of conducting previous similar tours. This includes the appropriate locals, accommodation, meals (breakfasts, lunches and dinners as per the itinerary) and many numerous local attractions, some of which include a local guide. For our trip this includes eleven meals and a tour host.
The coach can pick us up and return us from a yet to be nominated location in Cherrybrook.
As per their itinerary, in my view this is a comparatively active well catered for tour, inclusive of many varied attractions and activities. Assuming room availability, if you would like to join in the fun, simply advise me via email and I will forward you the booking form.
Trade Travel now have deposits and booking forms from twenty-eight of our members for this trip.
The following is an extract from the Trade Travel website:
‘We are specialists in providing travel solutions for Probus Clubs, National Senior Clubs, Retirement Villages, over 50’s Leisure Centres, and various specialty groups. Our touring options span both national and international destinations, and each can be tailored specifically to meet your group's unique needs.’
From my perspective they have the industry contacts and experience of conducting previous similar tours. This includes the appropriate locals, accommodation, meals (breakfasts, lunches and dinners as per the itinerary) and many numerous local attractions, some of which include a local guide. For our trip this includes eleven meals and a tour host.
The coach can pick us up and return us from a yet to be nominated location in Cherrybrook.
As per their itinerary, in my view this is a comparatively active well catered for tour, inclusive of many varied attractions and activities. Assuming room availability, if you would like to join in the fun, simply advise me via email and I will forward you the booking form.
To download the PDF of the flyer, click HERE
Leader - Max Henderson
Garden Group – May 2025
Many thanks to Lorenza Powyer and Sue Small for organising the garden group activity for May.
Fifteen members attended Mother Earth Nursery in Kenthurst for morning tea and a talk by Mark, the manager of the nursery. He spoke of the different garden jobs needing attention at this time of the year and also suggested some solutions to problems with "sick" plants that members brought in.
Our garden group has visited the nursery and cafe a number of times over the years .The nursery looked absolutely beautiful with healthy specimens of potted plants, so we were very surprised and saddened when we were informed that the Nursery and Cafe will be closing in June. (Some issues with the landlord and Council). Mark was quite emotional about the closure but did inform us that he manages two other Mother Earth Nurseries at Point Claire and Cranebrook and he looks forward to us visiting him there. Perhaps another visit opportunity?
Report by Lorenza on behalf of Julie
Our next Garden group day will be visiting: Bunnings at Rydalmere for a one hour talk on how to keep your plants healthy all year round.
Date - Wednesday 10 June 2025
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 - We will meet outside the Bunnings’ Garden Centre entrance at about 9.45am for the 10am talk. Please let me know if you require transport or are able to carpool. It is approximately a 30 minute drive.
Morning Tea – Provided by Bunnings
Many thanks to Lorenza Powyer and Sue Small for organising the garden group activity for May.
Fifteen members attended Mother Earth Nursery in Kenthurst for morning tea and a talk by Mark, the manager of the nursery. He spoke of the different garden jobs needing attention at this time of the year and also suggested some solutions to problems with "sick" plants that members brought in.
Our garden group has visited the nursery and cafe a number of times over the years .The nursery looked absolutely beautiful with healthy specimens of potted plants, so we were very surprised and saddened when we were informed that the Nursery and Cafe will be closing in June. (Some issues with the landlord and Council). Mark was quite emotional about the closure but did inform us that he manages two other Mother Earth Nurseries at Point Claire and Cranebrook and he looks forward to us visiting him there. Perhaps another visit opportunity?
Report by Lorenza on behalf of Julie
Our next Garden group day will be visiting: Bunnings at Rydalmere for a one hour talk on how to keep your plants healthy all year round.
Date - Wednesday 10 June 2025
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 - We will meet outside the Bunnings’ Garden Centre entrance at about 9.45am for the 10am talk. Please let me know if you require transport or are able to carpool. It is approximately a 30 minute drive.
Morning Tea – Provided by Bunnings
Photos From Mother Earth Nursery
Leader - Julie Stinson

Golf Club - May 2025 (otherwise called The Bunker News)
Our game for May 2025 was cancelled for North Ryde Golf Club. We did however all meet up at Swing City in Bella vista which was a lot of fun. The weather was better than expected with sunshine, and happiness. This was followed by lunch in the Cafe Area.
Our next event:
As a few golfers will be in Albury late May early June, we have decided to go to the Dural Driving range on Friday 6th June at 11am 260-266 New Line Road Dural $20 for a large bucket of golf balls. Lunch or Refreshments at the Vicar directly opposite the Driving Range 271 New Line Road around 12 noon for any members who would like to join us.
So golfers standby for an email to confirm
We play social golf catering for all levels, please let us know if you would like to join us.
Our game for May 2025 was cancelled for North Ryde Golf Club. We did however all meet up at Swing City in Bella vista which was a lot of fun. The weather was better than expected with sunshine, and happiness. This was followed by lunch in the Cafe Area.
Our next event:
As a few golfers will be in Albury late May early June, we have decided to go to the Dural Driving range on Friday 6th June at 11am 260-266 New Line Road Dural $20 for a large bucket of golf balls. Lunch or Refreshments at the Vicar directly opposite the Driving Range 271 New Line Road around 12 noon for any members who would like to join us.
So golfers standby for an email to confirm
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
Author: TAR
Edited by: J Swan

Men's Club - May 2025
Our next lunch outing will be at the
Woolwich Pier Hotel, 2 Gale St. Woolwich.
All men are welcome, save the date……
Wednesday 11th June at Midday
(We will car pool again, meeting in the community centre carpark at 11am)
If you plan on joining us , please let me know for booking numbers.
Leader - Rene Beutler

Movie Group - May 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.
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 May 2025 Report
May Photography Meeting
Each month as a group we choose the image of the month for a set subject and an open subject. At times we will also choose an image that fits the banner on our Facebook site.
Image of the Month for the Flora Set Subject
Andrew’s image of the bee on the flower was voted by the team as the best set subject image. The image is improved as it has a bee feeding on the flower which creates a story. Images with stories always do better as they capture the interest of the viewer. The contrasting colours of the green background and the red flower also add to the impact of this image. Congratulations Andrew on an excellent image.
May Photography Meeting
Each month as a group we choose the image of the month for a set subject and an open subject. At times we will also choose an image that fits the banner on our Facebook site.
Image of the Month for the Flora Set Subject
Andrew’s image of the bee on the flower was voted by the team as the best set subject image. The image is improved as it has a bee feeding on the flower which creates a story. Images with stories always do better as they capture the interest of the viewer. The contrasting colours of the green background and the red flower also add to the impact of this image. Congratulations Andrew on an excellent image.
Open Image:
The open image taken by Barry is the reflection of a walker with the ship in the background. The reflection gives the image a lot of interest and the ship in the background adds to the image. The image could be improved if the ship was not going “up hill”.
In a close second this image of the plane heading over the city by Lynne requires an honourable mention. Capturing the plane lifts this image above what would be buildings at sunset, well done Lynne.
The open image taken by Barry is the reflection of a walker with the ship in the background. The reflection gives the image a lot of interest and the ship in the background adds to the image. The image could be improved if the ship was not going “up hill”.
In a close second this image of the plane heading over the city by Lynne requires an honourable mention. Capturing the plane lifts this image above what would be buildings at sunset, well done Lynne.
In a close second this image of the plane heading over the city by Lynne requires an honourable mention. Capturing the plane lifts this image above what would be buildings at sunset, well done Lynne.
Botanical Gardens Visit.
The photography group had a visit to the botanical gardens as we approached the golden hour and finished up having dinner in the city. Some of the images taken by the photographers shown below:
The photography group had a visit to the botanical gardens as we approached the golden hour and finished up having dinner in the city. Some of the images taken by the photographers shown below:
Set Subject for the June Meeting
The set subject for June is the use of light in our images. Light plays a key role in making interesting photos.
The link to the video on light is: Bing Videos
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 June 4th at the Clarke’s residence at 7:30pm. Meetings are now scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month.
The set subject for June is the use of light in our images. Light plays a key role in making interesting photos.
The link to the video on light is: Bing Videos
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 June 4th at the Clarke’s residence at 7:30pm. Meetings are now scheduled for the first Wednesday of each month.
Rob Clarke
Activity Coordinator
Activity Coordinator
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone

The last table tennis activity was held 22nd May, 11 members enjoyed the exercise with separate ladies and gentlemen practice. The standard is improving with everyone enjoying this light exercise and having fun learning new skills in a noncompetitive session.
This activity is to be held on the fourth Thursday of the month (which ‘may be’ or ‘may not be’ the day after the General Meeting) 10am for 90 to 120 minutes (dependent on numbers) at the Dural Squash Court, 895 Old Northern Rd Dural, for only $5.
Coffee afterwards at Bezin Café 242 New Line Rd Dural.
All members are welcome. There are both male & female players, suiting all level of play. If you are interested and have not already done so, please contact Enio Dona
This activity is to be held on the fourth Thursday of the month (which ‘may be’ or ‘may not be’ the day after the General Meeting) 10am for 90 to 120 minutes (dependent on numbers) at the Dural Squash Court, 895 Old Northern Rd Dural, for only $5.
Coffee afterwards at Bezin Café 242 New Line Rd Dural.
All members are welcome. There are both male & female players, suiting all level of play. If you are interested and have not already done so, please contact Enio Dona

May Report
Ten Pin Bowling took place on Friday, 16 May, with 13 members participating.
With 5 of our regulars unavailable it appeared we would only need 2 lanes, however, our numbers were boosted by first timers Rosemary, Lynne & Alan.
Max was obviously keen to impress Lynne as he came out the blocks on fire in game 1 compiling a magnificent score of 184 pins with daylight running second. David, not to be denied, came out firing in game 2 and looked like beating Max’s score in game 1, only to fall agonisingly short by 5 pins.
There was very little between all the girls in both games with Jeannette getting over the line in game 1 and Toni in game 2.
Following play, we all adjourned to the local coffee shop for our usual green leaf salad and carrot & celery juice in keeping with the need to maintain our “elite athlete” status.
Our next game will take place on Friday, 20 June.
Ten Pin Bowling took place on Friday, 16 May, with 13 members participating.
With 5 of our regulars unavailable it appeared we would only need 2 lanes, however, our numbers were boosted by first timers Rosemary, Lynne & Alan.
Max was obviously keen to impress Lynne as he came out the blocks on fire in game 1 compiling a magnificent score of 184 pins with daylight running second. David, not to be denied, came out firing in game 2 and looked like beating Max’s score in game 1, only to fall agonisingly short by 5 pins.
There was very little between all the girls in both games with Jeannette getting over the line in game 1 and Toni in game 2.
Following play, we all adjourned to the local coffee shop for our usual green leaf salad and carrot & celery juice in keeping with the need to maintain our “elite athlete” status.
Our next game will take place on Friday, 20 June.
Leader - Doug Matthews

Tennis Group Report- May 2025
Sad to report that there has not been much tennis played in the last couple of months as we have had members travelling and terrible weather.
We do get together when we can but I guess that’s one of the benefit of being retired, lots of holidays.
We still aim to play on Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill (travel & weather permitting).
Leader - Bob Davison
Sad to report that there has not been much tennis played in the last couple of months as we have had members travelling and terrible weather.
We do get together when we can but I guess that’s one of the benefit of being retired, lots of holidays.
We still aim to play on Monday & Wednesday, 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill (travel & weather permitting).
Leader - Bob Davison

Live Theatre May 2025
Our April 2025 theatre party to Billy Elliot presented by Sydney Youth Musical Theatre at the Glen Street Theatre, Belrose on Wednesday 23 April was a truly memorable show, great venue and great company with 24 attendees and a happy bus driver!!
The Play that Goes Wrong:
Our next outing to "The Play That Goes Wrong" on Sunday 29th June at 1:00PM in the Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House is now fully subscribed with 36 attendees again, thank-you for your wonderful support of this activity!
As this is a day-time matinee at Sydney Opera House public transport is recommended, e.g. the ferry from either Rydalmere, Meadowbank or Putney into Circular Quay with a short walk to the venue. An email will follow shortly on these options, with tickets to be distributed.
"The longest running comedy in London, the smash-hit Olivier and Tony-Award-winning, The Play That Goes Wrong, is a hilarious hybrid of Monty Python and Sherlock Holmes, things go from bad to utterly disastrous when the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society performs a classic murder mystery. Complete with an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines)"
Our next outing to "The Play That Goes Wrong" on Sunday 29th June at 1:00PM in the Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House is now fully subscribed with 36 attendees again, thank-you for your wonderful support of this activity!
As this is a day-time matinee at Sydney Opera House public transport is recommended, e.g. the ferry from either Rydalmere, Meadowbank or Putney into Circular Quay with a short walk to the venue. An email will follow shortly on these options, with tickets to be distributed.
"The longest running comedy in London, the smash-hit Olivier and Tony-Award-winning, The Play That Goes Wrong, is a hilarious hybrid of Monty Python and Sherlock Holmes, things go from bad to utterly disastrous when the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society performs a classic murder mystery. Complete with an unconscious leading lady, a corpse that can’t play dead, and actors who trip over everything (including their lines)"
Leaders - Bruce & Robyn Bartle

The last walk was along the newly opened Middle Head Track . This 3km walk threads its way along the harbour’s edge from Middle Head – Gubbuh Gubbuh to Georges Head. Rich in historic heritage, explore forts and casemates while enjoying dazzling views of Sydney Harbour. It was a excellent day of sunshine and great views with 15 members joining in. Afterwards, Frenchy’s Café was the place for coffee, cake or lunch.
The steps in this walk are more than manageable, and I recommend this walk to all members who are looking for something to do. Frenchy's cafe is worth a visit if you are in the area. Please see photos. Many thanks to the contributors.
Next Months Walk
The next walk will be on Tuesday June 10th 2025. Eric Scheeren will be the activity leader on this occasion.
The walk will be an easy 5km from Kellyville Metro Station to the Mean Fiddler along paved walking paths.
Meet: Meet just outside the exit of Kellyville Metro Station.
When: Tuesday June 10th 2025.
Time: 10:00am.
Parking: There will be no parking available at Kellyville Metro Station but what I am doing is to Park at the Mean Fiddler and walk to Rouse Hill metro ( 800m ) and catch the Metro to Kellville. Then after lunch my chariot will await me.
Coffee: At the beginning or the end of the walk.
Toilets: At the beginning & end of walk, but no toilets on route.
Lunch: Lunch or Coffee at the Mean Fiddler.
Please bring a hat, sunscreen, good walking shoes & water and a smile.
Leaders - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson
Photos From Last Walk

Wine & Cheese May 2025
Thanks to Marilyn and John for hosting the May Wine & Cheese. We had 29 attendees.
The next Wine & Cheese will be held at the home of Rashna and Cawas Sahukar on Friday 13th June.
Rashna and Cawas Sahukar are proposing an additional activity with a variation on the wine and cheese format and would appreciate an indication of interest to attend and if the dates are suitable from the members please.
Please contact on : 0432 692 602 or email [email protected]
Champagne Brunch.
Rashna and Cawas are proposing to have a Champagne Brunch at their place on either Saturday 25th October or Saturday 22nd November.
This would be like a day time Wine and Cheese night.
Members will bring their Champagne or Sparkling wine along with glasses and nibbles.
Proposed time would be 10.30am to 12.30pm
Thanks to Marilyn and John for hosting the May Wine & Cheese. We had 29 attendees.
The next Wine & Cheese will be held at the home of Rashna and Cawas Sahukar on Friday 13th June.
Rashna and Cawas Sahukar are proposing an additional activity with a variation on the wine and cheese format and would appreciate an indication of interest to attend and if the dates are suitable from the members please.
Please contact on : 0432 692 602 or email [email protected]
Champagne Brunch.
Rashna and Cawas are proposing to have a Champagne Brunch at their place on either Saturday 25th October or Saturday 22nd November.
This would be like a day time Wine and Cheese night.
Members will bring their Champagne or Sparkling wine along with glasses and nibbles.
Proposed time would be 10.30am to 12.30pm
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: Eric Scheeren
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