Newsletter No. 110 - August 2026

THE NEXT GENERAL MEETING  WILL BE HELD  AT THE CHERRYBROOK COMMUNITY CENTRE AT 10.30AM ON  WEDNESDAY 26th AUGUST 2026

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President's Report

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President’s Report - August 2026
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 What a birthday celebration!! Thank you to all those involved in the planning, organisation and contribution to the event. The venue, ceremony, food, cake and guest speaker were outstanding. Don’t forget to check out all the photos on our website thanks to Andrew Little. We look forward to the 15th or 20th celebrations.

The trip to Nelson Bay was a delight for those who attended. A whale breaching 50 m from the boat was a standout combined with fighter jets, lookouts, nice food and the list goes on. Thanks to Lynne and Max Henderson for their wonderful organisation.

Helen Games organised a phenomenal day trip to the Sea Urchin Science Centre and Gallery at Kurrajong recently. Those who attended were amazed at the range and variety of sea urchins and the display. Where does Helen find these amazing places to visit? Thank you, Helen.

Enio’s walk from Victoria Cross to Mosman Rowers club occurred on a most magnificent sunny day. 14 members walked the 10 kms enjoying all the harbour views along the way. Thank you, Enio.

The weather has been rainy but with some lovely winter days. I hope you have been enjoying those sunny moments. Spring is not far away.

At our committee meeting last week, the PSPL Insurance Policy was received. For those interested a link will be included in this newsletter. Rodeos, train rides and grade 4 & 5 walks are not covered in the policy, the first 2 being covered by the events’ public liability. Have a read if you have trouble sleeping!!

There have been a lot of colds and flu amongst our members plus a few of you recovering from operations, etc. Reach out if you need a chat.

Peter Plowman is our guest speaker at the next meeting with the topic Alaskan Cruising. I’m sure it will invoke many lovely memories for a few of our members.
See you at the next meeting.

​
Rosemary Clarke
President

Secretarial

Correspondence In 
  • ​None
​Correspondence Out
  • None
Michele Hilder

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 - August 2026

TREASURER S REPORT For the Month ending 31 July 2026
GENERAL ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1 July 2026 $5,159.45
Interest $0.00
Deposits $0.00 Annual dues and joining fees received
$0.00
Expenses $(243.80) PSPL Capitation fees / Fair Trading
$0.00 Admin costs / Website Fees
$(80.00) Speaker Costs / Welfare
$(162.50) Hornsby Council venue hire
$0.00 Morning teas
$0.00 Transfers to / (from) Activity A/c
$0.00 Anniversary lunch
$0.00 New member costs
$(486.30)
Closing cash balance 31 July 2026 $4,673.15
ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT
Opening cash balance 1 July 2026 $18,764.11
Interest $14.54
Deposits $0.00 Cards 500
$10,000.00 Buchan
$0.00 Lion King
$1,143.00 Nelson Bay
$0.00 Archibald Tour
$0.00 Cirque du Soleil
$(4,230.00) Anniversary Celebration
$250.00 Sue Urchin
$100.00 Pine Tea
$0.00 $7,263.00 Fixes
Deposits to be identified
Payments $0.00 Cards 500
$(1,500.00) Buchan
$(945.00) Lion King
$0.00 Nelson Bay
$0.00 Archibald Tour
$0.00 Cirque du Soleil
$(1,716.00) $(4,161.00) Anniversary Celebration
Transfers outstanding
Closing cash balance 31 July 2026 $21,880.65
Open Activities Balance
Cards 500 $70.00
Buchan $16,230.00
Lion King $(44.00)
Nelson Bay $4,917.00
Archibald Tour $114.00
Cirque du Soleil $(190.20)
Anniversary Celebration $(416.00)
Sue Urchin $400.00
Pine Tea $100.00
$21,180.80
Add:
Activities surplus $699.85
Unresolved fixes $0.00
Bank balance $21,880.65
TERM DEPOSIT
The Term Deposit was rolled over in July at a value of $5,237.85, and has earned $378.99 this year,
at current interest rate of 4.75% p.a.
INTEREST
For this year, $75.94 has been received as interest General Account $0.00, Activities Account $75.94.
ACTIVITY SURPLUS
The Activity Surplus currently stands at $699.85.
Michael Stinson
Treasurer 31 July 2026
Michael Stinson​
Treasurer

Membership - August 2026

The ten year  celebration lunch was a truly memorable occasion and we look forward to the next ten years of fun friendship and fellowship.

The current membership stands at 107 active members and 5 inactive, with a female to male ratio of 60:40.
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Please let me know if you require replacement Membership Badges, and I will start an order list.

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 - August 2026

A number of members had a great trip to Nelson Bay for a few days where we participated in many  activities including plenty of walking along the foreshore. The good news is we didn’t have any medical incidents that I am aware of. All returned safe and sound and looking forward to our activities leading up to Xmas.

There has been the usual winter respiratory illnesses that a number of members have been affected by and recovering from.

Hookkee’s will be on grandparent duties from 17 September 26 returning home Monday 9 November 26.  During this time Lorraine Sutton will be looking after PROBUS Welfare please don’t hesitate to speak to her if you have any concerns that need raising. 

 Jan Hookkee – Welfare Officer
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August Guest Speaker 
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Peter Plowman - Alaskan Cruising

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​Peter was formerly a lecturer on cruise ships and built up a wide selection of talks, a few of he has given to us over the last few years. His talks have been informative and well received.
 
He has kindly agreed to of his most recent popular talk on Alaskan Cruising.
 

Probus South Pacific National Insurance Program​

Members should be aware that they are covered during Probus activities by the Probus Australia National Insurance Program.

This Insurance Coverage Summary has been compiled by Aon (Aon Risk Services Australia Limited) PSPL's Risk & Insurance Advisor, in conjunction with PSPL Executives to provide a broad outline of the Program and contains a brief description of the insurances and highlights the sections of the insurance that have relevance to PSPL, Probus Clubs, Probus Associations and Probus Club Members. As with any insurance policy, coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions detailed in the policy documents. Please read the document for more detailed information.  It can be found HERE.

Summary of all Policies (included in PSPL's National Insurance Program document)

The Program provides coverage for all participants in an approved Probus activity. These activities include any event organised by an accredited Probus Club or Association such as meetings, outings, tours, trips and interest groups. The approval of the activity should be reflected in the Probus Club or Association minutes. The Program has the following categories:

Personal Accident - this provides lump sum benefits and non-medicare related expenses if an Insured/Covered Person is accidentally injured whilst on approved Probus Club and/or Probus Association activities. Medical expenses that attract a Medicare benefit, whether claimed or not, are not covered under this Policy.

Public Liability – this protects Probus Clubs and Members if they are found legally liable (negligent) in causing bodily injury or damage to a third party’s property. It is important to note that in the majority of cases, Public Liability coverage would be available through a third-party provider or operator of the activity, event or service that Probus Club members are participating in.

Association Liability – this is protection for Club Management Committee members in the event that they receive an allegation of wrongdoing or a wrongful act.

Club Money – this is self-funded by PSPL and provides coverage to Probus Clubs and Associations for theft up to $5,000 per Club or Association.

Photos From July 10th Anniversary Celebration can be found HERE

Birthday  Celebrations

 Happy Birthday
 To all our members
Celebrating a birthday in August

Judith Butler 
Bev Davison
Pamela Godoy
Warwick Hilder
Mary Mitchell
Kim Nicholls
Ron Peterson
Eric Scheeren
Gerard Sidddle
Nikki Sidddle
Ken Smith
Toni Smith
Alan Somerfield
Heather Stewart
Cathy Turner ​



Newsletter Copy Deadline

Please provide your contributions for the September 2026 Newsletter by Friday 25 September 2026

 Please copy directly into Dropbox under :-

WPHD Probus Activities / Activity Newsletter Contributions / Contributions 2026_09

Eric Scheeren is the newsletter editor for September

Newsletter Editor Roster as at 16 April 2026

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, David Antonjuk
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
Trivia Group Kim Nicholls, Hilda Somerfield
Walking Group Enio Dona
Wine & Cheese Julie Shenstone, Susan Antonjuk
 
For an activity group to start, a member needs to step forward to lead the group
                              

Activities Calendar
Note: This Activities Calendar is now a copy of the Harmonysite calendar.
Please note that this calendar now syncs with the Harmony site Activities Calendar & hence is up to date. 

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Get On Board And Read’ - GOBAR! Challenge

GOBAR! Get on Board and Read! Now up and running, from April 26 to March 27.

GOBAR July-August Reads:  

The Other Bridget Jones by Rachael Johns:  Well, this was another of those young people romances where their attitudes drive you insane. Some parts of the story were quite good, but a hell of a lot of it was all about the entitlement these young people feel. Don’t cross their path and disturb their self-important world or else. They over-react to EVERYTHING. Since when is become a thing for sex to have no strings so everyone is a target for what we called back in the day ‘loose’. There are always consequences. Oh, and haven’t they heard of the pill? I suppose it’s a case of ‘I’m not putting chemicals into my body – use a condom but meanwhile let’s get raging drunk every time we go out’. The kickboxing in the delicate area when Bridget finally realises the truth about Fabio (yes that’s right – Fabio - just like in all those Mills and Boons romances) was a highlight.

The Woman in the Woods by Lisa Hall: a good mystery. Allie and her husband move to their quaint dream cottage in the village of Pluckley, to raise their 2 children in what appears to be a perfect haven. However, Pluckley is reputed to be England’s most haunted village. Not long after the birth of their new son, Allie notices strange things.

Grace Tame by Grace Tame: Book Club read. Reviewed in last newsletter. What I took from it: Sexual abuse can have a long lead in time as the perpetrator sets up the situation. Grooming is often thought to be directed just at the victim but Tame opened my eyes to how the predator grooms those around them to unwittingly abet the situation. When he is released from jail he sets about gaslighting Tame by again grooming those around him to his side of the story. Autism explains a lot of how Tame is now moving towards activism – things are black and white to her, and I feel that because of this she finds herself relating to other people who speak very loudly about injustice, even when they are often not telling the truth. Is this another form of grooming? And should she have ever become Australian of the Year? If you can’t listen to another point of view?????

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden: a VERY long book, written in first person. Supposedly based on information gained from interviews with an actual geisha. Interestingly, he was sued after the book’s publication for presenting several inaccurate descriptions of a geisha’s life, and also for disclosing the name of his source.

Eight Years of Lies by Lisa Hall: Another enjoyable read by this author. Claire believed she had a happy normal life, but it all unravels when her husband Tom and daughter appear in a missing-persons post! From another woman claiming they are her family! Tom disappears and Claire sets out to find him, realising that he had lied about his past and has been hiding dark secrets.

The Widow by John Grisham: This is Grisham’s first ‘who-dun-it’ novel and was disappointing for the reader. A small town lawyer writes a will for an 85 year old widow. The widow is killed, and the lawyer is convicted of her murder. The story had too many long and unnecessary descriptions and was a bit of a slow read.

The Day She Disappeared by Lisa Hall: The reader is really working through a lot of this author’s books and finding them very enjoyable. Becky’s returns reluctantly to the storm-battered island she once fled. She finds herself drawn into the year-old mystery of Violet’s vanishing. Shunned by locals and shadowed by her own buried scandal, she probes a community bristling with secrets – until another girl goes missing!

The Case of the Singer and the Showgirl by Lisa Hall: Lily Jones can time-slip back to the 1950’s. She discovers that Evelyn, the ex-girlfriend of her love interest, was brutally murdered in 1953, so Lily travels back to Vegas to prevent the crime.  

The Starlet and the Killer Gossip Column by Lisa Hall: 1950s Hollywood has a strict code of ‘morality’ and will stop at nothing to protect the reputation of its stars. But gossip columns start to reveal hidden secrets of some of the great and good of Tinsel Town. When a young starlet is found murdered and a producer is found dead a few weeks later, Lily starts to connect the targets of the gossip column with the victims. As she investigates, she uncovers a brutal web of deceit, blackmail and murder

Soulmate by Sally Hepworth: this book has been reviewed in the past and now another reader enjoys the good story telling by the author, coupled with twists along the way.

Think Twice by Harlan Coben: the story of three friends trying to solve a murder.
It turns out one of the friends is a serial killer. Not a bad read

A Distant Journey by Di Morrissey: This is the story of a young American girl who marries an Australian Grazier and comes to live in Deniliquin on a large property. The book tells of her struggles to adjust to her new life and follows her life raising a family and helping to manage the property. Enjoyable.

Lavender Hill by Alissa Callen: A romance. Two people return to their hometown in Tasmania to take over their familys’ businesses. Both have lost a brother mysteriously, and they have come together to find out what happened to them. A light read.

The Heron’s Cry by Ann Cleeves: Detective Matthew Venn is called out to a crime scene in a rural area; he finds an elaborately staged murder. He is also investigating the suicide of two young men. He and his team set out to find out what it’s all about. A good read.
 
Challenge yourself to read more. Calculate the average number of books you would read in a month, multiply it by the number of months up to the end of March ‘27 … +ONE more. Then 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.
 
Hope to see more of you join up for the next challenge. 

Sue Calabrese
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Book Club Report - August 2026

We had a lot of apologies for our meeting on 6th August, which resulted in only three people able to attend (many people travelled back from the Nelson Bay trip plus other absences), so we didn’t have a meeting. 

The book we were to discuss was The ninth life of a diamond miner by Grace Tame.  I guessing that everyone had mixed opinions on the book.

Our current book is Everyone in my family has killed someone by Benjamin Stevenson.

Our next meeting is on Thursday 17th September.

​Leader - Bev Davison





​I knew our family reunion wouldn't end well. But I didn't expect murder.

Maybe I should have known better. After all, everyone in my family is a killer. My parents, my siblings, my in-laws . . . even me. The deaths weren't all deliberate, of course. Accidents happen.

So when a body is found in the snow, it's clear it's the work of a Cunningham. But which one? And why?

I'll give you one clue: it wasn't me.
 
But a piece of advice? Never trust a Cunningham . . .
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Cards Report for August 2026

Lots of fun and a few lucky players won themselves a Voucher to splash out on!
Our next cards evening will be held on Friday 28 August.

Dural Club
Dinner 5.45
Cards start at 7pm
$5 per head to play.

A harmony email will go out a few days beforehand to let us know who will be having dinner and playing cards.


Cathy (David’s PA)

Leader - David Turner
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Cycling Report for August 2026

The November cycling tour started off from Rydalmere Ferry Terminal. The ride headed down to the George Kendall Riverside Park at Ermington. After a quick lap of the park, the riders headed back up the  Parramatta River, crossing over the river at the Alfred Street footbridge. After passing by the Parramatta River ferry terminal, the riders stopped to look at the finishing touches being made to the new Powerhouse Museum.
 
The coffee break was held at the George Street Gates entry to Parramatta Park – caught up in the local mothers group for the coffee orders!
 
Then, it was a leisurely flat ride back down along the Parramatta River to the Carpark at Rydalmere.
 
The ride length was 16.6km with an elevation gain of 93.0m.
 
NOTE: Next month’s ride will commence from the Meadowbank Ferry Terminal Carpark and follow the bike paths to Waterview Cafe in the Bicentennial Park via the Parramatta River and return. (Approx. distance – 16.0kms).          
 
Date: Wednesday 16th September 2026 (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.

​Leader - Gerard Siddle
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Behind the Scenes Tour of
Pine Tea and Coffee
Wednesday 30th September

Obsessed with coffee or tea. Join us for a flavour packed fun experience. You’ll
explore the craft, science, and soul behind the perfect cup.

Meet: at Pine Tea and Coffee Unit 17/8 Gladstone Road, Castle Hill
Time: 10.20am for 10.30am start
Cost: $20 includes morning tea
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Whether you’re a tea lover, a coffee connoisseur, or just curious — come sip, learn,
and be inspired.

If you would like to join the Pine Tea and Coffee Tour please deposit $20
into the Probus Activities Account by Monday 14th September and reply
to the Harmony Invitation.

Sea Urchin Science Centre & Gallery Visit - Thursday 13th August

1. Curator biologist Ashley (Confirmed as the Worlds leading authority) held us all in awe of the complicated essential life of Sea Urchins. Their lives centre on the sifting of sand to extract food in doing so clean the sea floor world wide. They can bore down into the sound to a metre in depth. Without them the sea would be unable to function.

2. The gallery is the most comprehensive collection of Sea Urchins, Sea shells ( way too many types to list) Abalone, Mussels Cone types etc etc. Must be about 10,000 varieties displayed expertly in showcases, drawers etc. 

3. There are approximately 1,400 varieties world wide. They vary with their colours, sizes, intricate designs and shapes and symmetry. Ashley has dived all over the world in the search and study of them. Sydney harbour is a major habitat together with all salt water around Australia.

4. Ashley’s  a couple of new found species found by him being named after him.

5. Their enemies are the Helmet shell which fire a spear which pierces its shell and sucks out all the goodies. Otters and octopus also eat them.

6. If attacked severely and their numbers are depleted they can re-populate extremely quickly.
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7. Our tour lasted 1 1/2 hours but could have gone a lot longer ( Most of agreed we could easily have stayed and listened to more of his knowledge and learnt so much more) but we had a booking at a cafe.
 
I strongly recommend this tour and the majority rated it as one of the best we have been on. Hope we do the same one again I will certainly go.

Barry Wailes - Assistant Leader
Leader - Helen Games
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Dining Out Report for August 2026


We have October booked in for an outing, but need starters for September and November.
 
Members please note I would like you to think about who will take September & November
Leader - Stuart Mitchell
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Mudgee
Monday 5th to Thurs 8th April 2027

Things are moving along with our trip next year.
 
The day tour of Mudgee and Gulgong, including the concert at the Gulgong Opera House is all arranged. Based on those who indicated they will be joining the trip, the cost will be approximately $30 per person. We will leave the Horatio around 9am, complete a tour of Mudgee, stop for morning tea at the Honey Haven, on to Gulgong for a tour of the town followed by lunch and then the Tales of the Swag concert. The concert is an additional cost yet to be finalised but it should be around the $15 per head mark and is payable in cash on the day. We should arrive back at the Horatio around 4pm. Please note that morning tea and lunch is at your own cost. There are plenty of good options for lunch in Gulgong including pubs and cafes. You will have time to visit the Gulgong Museum which is certainly worth a look.
 
For those who have registered for the wine tour on the Wednesday the cost will be around $40 per person based on current numbers. There is still space for more to join the wine tour which will have the effect of reducing the per head cost. We will be picked up from the Horatio around 10am, visit 2 wineries and return around 2pm. The cost of the wine tastings is $10 per person payable at the vineyard. You will have the chance to taste at least 6 different wines at each winery. Should you choose to purchase some wine the $10 tasting fee will be refunded but this does depend on how many bottles you buy.
 
Dinners are almost sorted with The Oriental Hotel and the Courthouse Hotel agreeing to take us on the Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. I just need to confirm which one for each night. Monday night will be a casual meal at The Mudgee Club.
 
There is plenty to do in the Mudgee area and also while travelling from Sydney to Mudgee and on the return journey. As we draw closer I will give some options for those who would like to do some individual touring.
 
Let me know if you have any questions.

Jim Simpson
Jim Simpson  
Activity Leader for this activity

Nelson Bay Photos
Monday 3rd to Thurs 6th Aug 2026

Barramundi Being Fed Pellets

Queensland Great Central Outback Trail
Sunday 1st to Wednesday 11th Aug 2027

In next month’s newsletter we will have the priced itinerary for this trip. We will then leave it with Trade Travel to prioritise attendees based on their receipt of your $200pp deposit/s.

Trade Travel’s minimum trip number is usually twenty and our accommodation at Longreach (three nights in sixteen luxury glamping tents), will restrict us to thirty-two, less with single supplements.  
I expect deposits will be refundable up to February/March, after which they will be non-refundable. The actual date will be in the priced itinerary.

A 2025 Trade Travel trip to Southwest Queensland was $5,000. Whilst a similar trip, it excluded Longreach, glamping tents and the flight back to Brisbane, therefore expect to pay more.  Coupled with inflation and recent discussions with Trade Travel I expect this will be a lot more.

As per their draft itinerary below this is a fantastic opportunity to experience the central Queensland outback with Trade Travel.

Max Henderson
​Activity Leader
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To download the PDF of the flyer, click HERE
Leader - Max Henderson
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Garden Group – August 2026

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Our Garden Group activity is occurring later in August so that we can experience the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival on Tuesday 25 August 2026.
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The Sydney Cherry Blossom was launched in 2011, as part of a range of arts festivals and events, and has since grown into Cumberland Council’s largest event that really showcases the Auburn Botanic Gardens. The iconic festival runs for nine days each year and attracts thousands of visitors who come to experience the fairytale wonderland of more than 200 pink cherry sakura blossom trees in full bloom, set against the stunning Japanese Gardens in Auburn.         
The Cumberland Mayor is quoted as saying that “The Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival is more than just a beautiful sight, it’s a celebration of Japanese culture, creativity, and community,” There are hands on workshops such as origami and cultural performances. Here’s what’s in store this year:
  • Cherry Blossom Trail - A breathtaking walk through a canopy of over 200 cherry trees, including the beloved Cherry Arbour and Torii Gate. The renowned Cherry Arbour is the most photographed spot in the entire garden and for good reason!
 
  • Hikaru Shine - A Japanese dance performance at 12:10pm at the Sakura Stage. Expect vibrant costuming, enchanting rhythms, and an amazing performance.
 
  • Costa Georgiadis will also be there at 12:30pm to share practical tips, inspiring stories about his unique approach to creating thriving, connected gardens that benefit people, communities and the environment. 
 
Date:   Tuesday 25 August 2026
Time:   10:15am at the entrance on Chiswick Road
Address:   Auburn Botanic Gardens, Chisholm Rd and Chiswick Rd, Auburn NSW Please note that road closures will be in place on Chiswick Road during the Festival.
Parking:  Street parking around Auburn Botanic Gardens is limited.  Parking is available in Killeen Street, approximately a 5-minute walk to the venue. Car-pooling will be arranged.

Cost:   $9.60 (includes booking fee).  All Cherry Blossom festival tickets must be pre-booked online for entry into the festival. The ticket website link is:  https://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/sydneycherryblossomfestival
On this website page, click on “Get Tickets” in a pink box which will lead you to another web page.
Scroll down the page and click on “Tuesday 25 August 2026”.

Then scroll down till you see the box TUE 25TH | Seniors Card Holder ($7.90 + Booking Fee) Must present valid Seniors Card upon entry. $9.60.  Make sure you select the senior card holder tickets.
On the right hand side of this box click on the number of senior tickets you wish to buy and then click on “Get Tickets”
There is an option to pay an extra $0.89 per ticket if you wish to have refundable tickets in case of sickness, injury, etc. on the next page before the payment page.

After you have selected the number of senior tickets and clicked “Get Tickets”, this will lead you to a webpage where you enter you name, email address and payment details to place the order.
If you need any technical assistance in buying tickets please contact me.
 
Lunch:  Auburn Tennis Club, 181 Chisholm Road Auburn
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If you are interested in attending please let me know through Harmony, or SMS.
 
Garden Activity Leader – Julie Stinson   

Thursday 17 September 2026 Everglades House & Garden - Leura

September Garden Group Activity – Everglades House & Gardens, Leura

Everglades House & Gardens is a stunning Art Deco, heritage listed residence surrounded by gracefully designed gardens and sweeping views over the Blue Mountains. The gardens were designed by the renowned Paul Sorensen who was a Danish born landscape gardener and nurseryman who migrated to Australia in 1915. He has designed and planted over 100 gardens in Australia, mainly for the wealthy. Prior to migrating to Australia, Sorensen was employed in garden maintenance for the Danish Royal Family’s summer residence.

Date: Thursday 17 September 2026

Departure Time: 8:15am (Estimated travel time to the morning tea stop is 1.5 hours).

Transport: Carpooling - If you can provide or need transport please let me know.

Parking: Mountain High Pies has its own car park. Enter car park via Mitchell Street, Wentworth Falls.
Everglades House & Garden has free street parking

Cost: $15 Entrance Fee for Everglades House & Garden. Pay at the entrance. National Trust Members are free. Morning tea and lunch are at your own expense.

Proposed Itinerary and approximate times 9.45am Morning Tea at Mountain High Pies 293 Great Western Hwy, Wentworth Falls. Enter car park via Mitchell Street, Wentworth Falls. Leave at about 10.15am to drive 3.8km to the Everglades House and Garden.

10.30am Arrive at Everglades House and Garden, 37 Everglades Avenue, Leura. Stroll around the garden and go inside the House to learn about the history of the house and the garden. Visit the Art exhibition located in what was previously the Squash Courts. Then leave the Everglades House at about 12.30pm to drive 4.1km (10 minutes).

12.45pm Lunch at Katoomba RSL, Lurline Street, Katoomba. After lunch we will return back to the Hills District.
If you are interested in attending please let me know through Harmony, or SMS by Monday 14 September 2026.
Leader - Julie Stinson
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PictureTerry & Jeff
Golf Report - August 2026  News from The Bunker

HELLO Probus, Members
 
The Probus Golfing Day for August 2026 was held at the Gordon Golf Course, the weather conditions fantastic for golf with a welcome cloud cover.
We had 9 members attend and enjoyable 10 holes round of golf.
 
A pleasant lunch was taken at the Hotel Pennant Hills where the days play was discussed and along with other world events. Thank you to Hilda & Alan Somerfield who called in for lunch on their way to an appointment.
 
Next game will be Friday 4th September 2026 at North Ryde Golf Club with only three (3) tee times available: 8:55, 9:02, 9:09. Two carts have also been booked. To be followed by lunch at the The Ranch Hotel, Epping Rd, Macquarie Park.
 
We play social golf catering for all levels, please let us know if you would like to join us.
 
Yours in Fun, Fellowship & Friendship

From Team Golf
Terry Ridge and Jeff Swan
WPH&D Probus Inc - Golf Coordinators
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Men's Club - August  2026

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For September Only, we will meet  for lunch , midday on Wednesday 16th  at the Blue Gum Hotel, 55 Pacific Highway Waitara.  (parking at rear )



​Leader - René Beutler
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August  Coffee Morning

Join us for a coffee & cake, great conversation and lots of fun.  Everyone is welcome!  
We are meeting on the last Monday of the month!!

PLACE : Castle Hill RSL, Bistro Area

The next talk fest will be:

     Monday 31st August 2026 at 10:30am


Leader- Helen Beutler
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​Movie Group - August 2026

​​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 10am, 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 August 2026 Report

The August meeting was postponed as we had many our participants on the probus trip to Nelson Bay.

A Very Good Image
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Gerard Siddle’s minimalistic image titled “Early Morning” was taken in Bali and was awarded the Image of the Month in the Castle Hill Photography Club competition. Congratulations Gerard and it’s great to see that our photographers having success outside of our probus group.

Activities

Everyone is welcome to join our photography group, most of our photographers only use I-phones or equivalent. We do have a very small number with the more expensive equipment, but they do not dominate our meetings.
Our photography group organises outings and trips away that are open to the photography group only. We have had some comments that others in the club were not aware of these events and outings. To become aware of these events come to our meetings and it does not matter what kind of photographer you may be, our nights are highly social.
Facebook Site

If you are a member of our Probus Club you can access our photography site with a request. People who are not members cannot access the site. The link to our 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.
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Briefing on the Upcoming Photography Trip to the South Coast and Southern Highlands.

At the meeting there will be a run through of the photography trip to the South Coast and Southern Highlands. This is an important briefing session for our trip away.

September Set Subject
Images taken in harsh light. This is challenging, please refer to the video on the Facebook site for some ideas.
We will view and vote on the best images taken in harsh light and images in the open albums of the probus photography Facebook site.

Next Meeting
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The next meeting will be Wednesday September 2 at 7:30pm the Clarke’s residence.

Rob Clarke
Activity Coordinator
Leaders - Rob Clarke & Bain Shenstone​
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August 2026 Report

The last table tennis session held in July with 13 players with the return of all the regular players.   
This activity is to be held on the fourth Thursday of the month (day after the General Meeting) 10am for 90 minutes at the Dural Squash Court, 895 Old Northern Rd Dural, for only $5.

All members are welcome.  There are both male & female players, suiting all level of play.

If you are interested and not already done so, please contact Enio Dona


The benefits of table tennis include:

​These benefits make table tennis a great choice for both physical and mental health.


Leader - Enio Dona
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August 2026 Report

​​TTen Pin Bowling resumed last Friday after a long break due to school holidays.
 
We had a good rollup, notwithstanding a couple of late withdrawals. It was good to see Tarzan & Jane(aka Eric & Deirdre) return from the African Jungle and Jeanette after her knee replacement.
 
The scores recorded by a number of our leading bowlers were appreciably lower than normal which, no doubt, was due to some rust accruing over the long break.
 
Turning to the highlights, on the Girls side, Game 1 saw Jeanette narrowly prevail over Bev & Rosemary, while in Game 2 Toni was the winner from Bev.
 
With regard to the boys, David comfortably came out on top in Game1, but had to settle for second in Game 2 with Ken taking home the chocolates.
 
I can’t help but mention that Rob, who surprised everyone on his first outing by coming out on top, failed to match his previous heroics. In fact, Rosemary in Game 1 “pulled his pants down” winning by a huge 31 pins. In fairness to Rob, he did manage to edge Rosemary in Game 2.
 
The next exciting Ten Pin Bowling activity will take place on Friday, 18 September.
Leader - Doug Matthews
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Tennis Group Report - August 2026

Another few weeks of mixed weather with rain stopping play on occasion.  It’s gradually getting warmer though which is nice.
 
We play on Monday & Wednesday (weather permitting), 8.30am at Hasting Park Tennis Complex, 44 Belltree Crescent, Castle Hill.

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​Leader - Bob Davison​
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Live Theatre August 2026

35 Attendees enjoyed our theatre party to Disney’s The Lion King on Wednesday 29 July 2026 at 7:00pm at The Capitol Theatre Sydney was a memorable evening with great dress circle seats. Again, a huge thank-you to all those who participated!
 
Cirque-Du Soleil -Kooza
Cirque du Soleil's KOOZA is coming to Sydney under the much-loved iconic Big Top, at the Entertainment Quarter from October 2026.
 
We now have revised 35-seat booking for this spectacular which we are sharing with Beecroft Probus Club on Wednesday 28 October 2026 commencing at 7:30pm. Travel will be by return coach initially from Campbell Park (Wilga Street, West Pennant Hills) then Beecroft Station and on to Driver Avenue Moore Park for an easy walk through to the Entertainment Quarter.

Currently we have just a few seats still available so don’t delay in contacting either Robyn or Bruce Bartle to confirm and avoid disappointment. 
 
WEST PENNANT HILLS/DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT

Description: Member Surname - Kooza
 
Jersey Boys -SYMT
 Sydney Youth Musical Theatre returns to Hornsby RSL with its 99th production – the international smash hit Jersey Boys. With a busy Probus Club schedule at this time of year our intended theatre party to this show will be Friday 30 October at 7:30pm with tickets just $47!! An interest sheet at our next meeting and detailed email will follow shortly.
 
WEST PENNANT HILLS/DISTRICT PROBUS CLUB ACTIVITIES ACCOUNT

Description: Member Surname - Jersey
 
Bursting with unforgettable music, powerhouse vocals and incredible energy, this award-winning musical tells the remarkable true story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Sing along to timeless classics including Sherry, Walk Like a Man, Big Girls Don't Cry, Bye Bye Baby (Baby Goodbye)...
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Whispering Jack -The John Farnham Musical:
 
We have secured a group booking of 35 Tickets for December 15, 2026, to, Whispering Jack a major new Australian production (now virtually sold out) presented by Sydney Theatre Company premiering at the Roslyn Packer Theatre for a limited 4-week season. Tickets are expected to be $150 each including return coach travel.

Starring Michael Paynter as John Farnham, this musical celebrates the story behind the 40th anniversary of the highest-selling Australian album of all time, covering his comeback from 1980 to 1986.

An invitation to join us via Harmony will follow shortly with the communication date to be advised in advance in both the newsletter and our regular monthly meeting.

Leaders - Bruce & Robyn Bartle
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Trivia August 2026



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Kim Nicholls  & Hilda Somerfield
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Walking August 2026

​​The last walk was held on Tuesday 11th Aug 2026, and it was the Victoria Cross to Mosman Bay Wharf, around Cremorne Point, stopping at Mosman Rowers for lunch.  It was an easy walk, all along concrete paths and with few steps.  It was a great walk of a day with excellent weather, with great views.  Photo below.
The next walk I intend to do is an easy flat walk around Castle Hill, the Castle Hill Metro to Showground Metro, walking around the newly build towers blocks, seeing the change to the current landscape.  This is a local walk, so we can park at the Towers car park, (less than 3 hours), do the walk around the newly developments at Castle Hill, and Showground Metro, return by the metro to Castle Hill, quick coffee/lunch at Comos.  The whole day is intended to take less the 3 hours.

Details of the walk, Tuesday 8th Sept 2026
  Meet:  Meet on the street level Castle Hill Metro Station.  Get a coffee at the café.
  When:  Tuesday 8th Sept 2026
  Time:  10:00am.
  Walk:  Investigate the high-rise towers being built around Castle Hill and Showground stations.
  Parking: Parking at the Towers shopping centre or on the street.
  Coffee:  At the beginning of the walk at the Metro station, end at Comos.
  Toilets:  At Castle Hill Metro, on route and at end of walk.
  Lunch:  Lunch at Comos  Castle Hill
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Bring Hat, good walking shoes, Opal Card and a smile.
 
Contact me if you have any questions or even better suggestions for possible walks.  Contact me if you want to be added or removed from the mailing list.

Photos From Last Walk 

Leaders - Enio Dona / Lynne Henderson
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Wine & Cheese August 2026
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Thanks to Wendy and Bob Carritt for hosting the August Wine & Cheese. 28 people made the journey to Warriewood and all enjoyed a tour of Wendy’s and Bob’s home, along with plenty of good food, wine and as always, excellent conversation.

The September Wine & Cheese will be at the home of Carmen and John Sanders.

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.
The newsletter is put together by the excellent work of three members. Editor for this month: Andrew Little