Chairman's Message

As the weather starts to warm so do our spirits, enjoying more opportunities to get out and about. I enjoy this quote from Robin Williams “Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!'”

Spring and "springtime" refer to the season, and also to the idea of rebirth, rejuvenation, renewal and regrowth. It is inspiring to see many Clubs actively working to attract new members by utilising our new range of promotional material under the banner of DISCOVER PROBUS.

During August, PSPL conducts our Annual General Meeting. We will warmly welcome three new Directors, David Malone representing New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory, Peter Olney for Western Australia (who is the former President of PAWA) and returning to the Board, Past PSPL Chairman Margaret Drake representing New Zealand. We thank all applicants and the members of the Nominating Selection Committees.

We will also farewell retiring Directors, on behalf of my fellow Board members, welcome the opportunity to acknowledge and sincerely thank, Graeme Brown, Bill Killinger AM and Tony Blaber for their many contributions, dedication, and commitment to the Probus Community.

Heartening news is the formation of new Probus Clubs. Congratulations and thanks to our PSPL staff and local Membership Representatives who are working tirelessly to launch these new Clubs that will no doubt be welcomed by their local communities.

Supporting our membership development strategy is a multi-faceted media campaign. During the past weeks Probus has featured in a national promotional radio campaign in both Australia and New Zealand generating numerous enquiries from potential members to visit their local Probus Club.

It has been a great joy to receive news of Clubs renewing, increasing their membership and welcoming new friends to join meetings and Club activities, with vigor and enthusiasm. Members often share their experience that having good relationships with others increases their general wellbeing and has a wider, positive impact on communities.

Thank you for generously sharing the enjoyment of your Club, which I am regularly reminded are inclusive, welcoming and provide friendly connections for people from culturally diverse groups and different backgrounds, life and work experiences.

Also uplifting is news of the creative plans for Probus Month celebrations which will commence from 1 October and continue throughout the month. On the first of October each year we begin our celebrations by also acknowledging the United Nations Day of the Older Persons.

With just a few months to go, we have confirmed over 94 landmarks being lit up in Probus colours which are listed on our website. Perhaps you can contribute with your own version by promoting our blue & gold colours to add to your celebrations.

During this time, we will be encouraging people who are retired or semi-retired to consider joining or making contact with their local Probus Club to experience first-hand the fun and friendship that Probus has to offer.

As you know, the Probus Community to which you and I belong is vast, with tens of thousands of men and women gathering on a regular basis to generously share their time and their talents to ensure a welcoming and enjoyable local setting to meet and share.

Features

Health

8 5 Steps to getting in shape

Planning a big walking trip, or even an overseas jaunt far from home? Here’s how to make sure you’re in the best shape possible.

11 Managing Diabetes

In 2023, more than 1.5 million Australians, or roughly 5.5% of the population, reported being diabetic. How can we manage it?

Finance

13 Time to de-clutter your finances

We all know that spring is a great time to clear out the physical clutter in your home, but why not take the opportunity to tidy up your finances, as well?

16 Small is beautiful

Trendy. Environmentallyfriendly. Gorgeous. The tiny house movement is one worth exploring.

Travel

22 A Visit to Kies Family Winery

25 enthusiastic Probians set out to explore the historic winery nestled just outside Lyndoch in the picturesque Barossa Valley.

Technology

26 We all love our cookies, right?

Choc chip, blueberry, oatmeal raisin…browser?

28 The keys to a smarter home

Home automation is all about using smart home devices and protocols to make your life easier.

Feature Story

32 The Shipwreck Coast

In spring and summer, Probus Clubs are busy outside! With gorgeous, warm weather beckoning you, it’s easy to head out and explore. But what about the cooler months?

Past Issues

is the official publication for the Probus organisation in Australia. Active Retirees is a trademark of Probus South Pacific Limited. ACN 152 374 395

Chairman Judith Maestracci AM

Vice Chairman Michael Ransom

Treasurer David Ekert

Directors Tony Blaber, Peter Turner, Graeme Brown, John Hall, Bill Killinger AM and Merv Richens OAM

PSPL Administration

PO Box 1294, Parramatta NSW 2124 phone +61 2 9689 0200 1300 630 488 (Australia) 0800 14776 287 (New Zealand) email admin@probussouthpacific.org website www.probussouthpacific.org

Active Retirees Production & Management Probus South Pacific Limited Editorial Monika Prasad email monikap@probussouthpacific.org

Citrus Media Advertising

Alex Brereton email alex@citrusmedia.com.au

Active Retirees Australia Disclaimer. Active Retirees is published by Probus South Pacific Limited (ACN 152 374 395) (PSPL). Advertisers and contributors to Active Retirees acknowledge that they are aware of and undertake to comply with the provisions of applicable State and Federal discrimination legislation and the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 in relation to false and misleading advertising or statements and unfair practices. PSPL does not accept any responsibility for such breaches. Opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of PSPL. All articles are general in nature. Individuals should seek expert advice before acting on any information contained in Active Retirees. PSPL does not make any warranties in relation to the information provided and, to the full extent allowed by law, disclaim all warranties of any kind, express or implied. All material in Active Retirees is copyright and may not be produced in whole or in part without the express written permission of PSPL. Advertisers and contributors warrant that photographs provided for print in Active Retirees do not infringe the intellectual property or moral rights of any third party and that the advertiser or contributor holds all necessary permits and licences.