October - November 2023 Issue Active Retirees Magazine

Vale Bob Burnett

This is my first column as Chair of Probus South Pacific Limited and I would like to introduce myself to all our Probus members across Australia. I was raised in a farming community in north east Victoria, worked with the Victorian Government’s Conservation agency in a range of locations across Victoria, and now live in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. I am married to Marie, and together we have three children and five grandchildren.

Since joining Probus in 2007, I have seen first-hand the difference it makes to people’s lives. I truly believe that Probus provides an invaluable service to our local communities by helping us stay engaged and connected. As we change, so do the communities we live in, and Probus must learn to adapt if we want to attract the next generation of Probians to our Clubs.

Younger retirees need community and companionship in the same way as older people, and successful Clubs are looking at ways of attracting younger members. Younger retirees may be looking for a new range of activities and experiences as part of their membership, and I would be interested to hear from any Clubs that have looked at innovative ways of attracting younger members. Please let me know of your ideas by emailing me directly at michaelransom@probussouthpacific.org.

On the first of October, we begin our Probus Month celebrations in line with the United Nations Day of the Older Persons. Probus Day started in 2020 and has been so successful that it has become Probus Month. These celebrations will continue throughout the month of October with Clubs across both Australia and New Zealand celebrating with special morning teas, picnics, lunches, themed meetings, the lighting of landmarks and so much more. If your Club has not yet planned its celebration, it’s not too late, perhaps you can visit one of the many landmarks being lit up in our Probus colours of blue and gold.

During October we will continue our DISCOVER PROBUS promotional campaign by encouraging people who are retired or semi-retired to make contact with their local Probus Club and experience first-hand the fun and friendship that Probus has to offer.

However you and your Club decide to mark this special occasion – I extend a very Happy Probus Month to all Probians across Australia and New Zealand.

Chairman

Michael Ransom

2023-2024 | Probus South Pacific Ltd

FEATURES

Health

8 Choosing the best health insurance for seniors

As you get older, your health needs can shift, so it's crucial to make sure your insurance is still a good fit.

Finance

11 Petrol pinching

Petrol is a necessary but unpopular expense, especially when you get hit with unexpectedly high prices.

Technology

14 Everything you need to know before buying an Electric Vehicle

These EVs are superefficient, quieter, and they don't spew out any CO2 from the tailpipe. Plus, they can pack a serious punch in terms of power.

Travel 20 A Place in the Sun

This is rural Italy - the Chiana Valley in Tuscany, a panorama of green and gold fields encircled by undulating hills, terraced with olive groves.

Feature Story

23 Vale Bob Burnett OAM

He could be called the Founding Father of Probus in Australia but he is officially known as the Foundation Member.

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 Michael Ransom

Vice Chairman David Malone

Immediate Past Chairman Judith Maestracci AM Treasurer David Ekert

Directors Margaret Drake, Peter Turner, John Hall, Merv Richens OAM, Peter Olney PSM.

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.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

PROBUS PARTNERS

WITH TRADE TRAVEL’S CO-FOUNDER KAY MCGLASHAN

It is always wonderful to leave the office behind and host some of our iconic destinations, reconnect with suppliers and enjoy the company of our touring passengers. The last couple of months have taken me to one of the jewels of the Pacific, Cook Islands before heading over to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to experience the island paradise of Mauritius. Settle into a nice armchair and I will give you just a taste of these wonderful destinations

COOK ISLANDS

Such a special part of the Pacific well known for its culture and natural wonders both in Rarotonga and the island of Aitutaki Easy to access via the direct flights from Sydney or via New Zealand it is island time on arrival and you instantly are drawn to the warm and friendly locals that are very happy to showcase their island home

Our luxury accommodation was right on the premium Muri Beach Lagoon – what a treat waking up to a magnificent view each day and enjoying the beautiful island fruits on offer at our breakfast each morning. Throughout our stay we visited all the attractions and everyone agreed the highlights in Rarotonga included meeting the families on the Progressive Dinner. These people open their homes to us and tell us their story. Also our cruise adventure with the lively crew on Captain Tama’s Lagoon Cruise – they kept us entertained all day an d provided a fantastic presentation on island life. Our finale was the Dinner and Show at Te Vara Nui spectacularly set over water with dancers performing the Legend of Tongaiti. A wonderful evening. On Aitutaki it is simply the lagoon that takes your breath away and venturing out on a cruise is special and it certainly ticks one of those bucket list destinations.

EFFORTLESS JOURNEYS, ENDLESS MEMORIES

MAURITIUS

My next adventure took me to our signature island destination, Mauritius. Meeting our guide at the airport was the start of our first class service that we happily enjoyed for the next ten days.

Arriving at our resort we were instantly impressed by the beachfront setting, the restaurants, bars and shows that were part of our all-inclusive package.

Each day was a discovery through our five senses as we le arned about the interesting history and culture and marvelled at the sights and breathtaking scenery. Lots of highlights throughout the tour so just a couple I will mention

The Casela Nature Park - what an amazing experience with a real African feel inside the park. Walking with the Lions is optional but there is so much more to see inside this incredible park and the African Safari Truck is top of the list with the Cheetah encounter also a highlight.

I knew a bit about what was coming but even I was taken back as we were treated to a dream, all-inclusive day onboard a luxury catamaran with a wonderful crew catering for our every need and crystal clear waters showcasing dolphins and other sealife. A day we will all remember fondly.

These island destinations are created by the team at Trade Travel with the assistance of our specialised ground operators to ensure you experience a holiday you won’t forget It is part of our mantra that if you are travelling with a group or individually we want to ensure your journey is effortless and you take home endless memories.

Fiorland Discovery

By Brett Atkinson

Welcome to a scene from a Mission Impossible movie, flying by helicopter from Te Anau across a sylvan landscape of mountains and alpine lakes to land on a luxury catamaran.

of Te Waipounamu. Just past the shimmering clarity of Chalky Island – revealed as a southern hemisphere stand-in for the White Cliffs of Dover – we drop fishing lines with electricpowered reels to haul in blue cod from improbably deep waters on the bow.

Albatrosses, mollymawks and terns all soar on shifting breezes at the stern.

Surrounded by the jade-green waters of Preservation Inlet's Isthmus Cove is the Fiordland Jewel, an adventurous haven for 18 passengers on a sixnight voyage through Aotearoa's most spectacular and historic southern region.

We've arrived in Fiordland National Park's southernmost sound, a pristine region excluded from most cruising itineraries, but a remote area with a significant role in New Zealand history. In the 1820s, sealers and whalers populated the bay, and economic optimism saw the development of Cromarty, an 1890s coal-mining town. The Jewel's tender is soon transporting us across

Kisbee Bay to explore Cromarty's faded legacy before we embark on a rolling 6km return hike around kelpadorned coves to historic Puysegur Point. Detritus from past lighthouses leads to a lookout, located on precipitous sea-cliffs at the far southwestern extremity of Fiordland National Park. Returning to the Fiordland Jewel, Central Otago wines and southern kai moana, seasonal produce and locally sourced meats transform the boat into a uniquely remote fine-dining restaurant. From Rakituma/Preservation Inlet, the Jewel exits to the Tasman Sea, tracing a path north along the southwestern coastline

The Fiordland Jewel's northward journey continues past West Cape, prosaically named by dour Yorkshireman Captain James Cook when he sailed past in the HMS Endeavour in 1770. Three years later he returned on the HMS Resolution, entering Tamatea/Dusky Sound, a sheltered haven that's our anchorage for two days. Following 122 days at sea, including time below the Antarctic Circle, Cook and his crew stayed for five weeks to replenish and recharge. Our own more limited time in Dusky includes kayaking amid indigo-coloured waters, and exploring the predator-free kākāpō sanctuary of Pukenui/Anchor Island. Fresh homestyle baking served both morning and afternoon provides essential sustenance between Fiordland adventures, before the Jewel detours west through a labyrinth of islands to cruise past Breaksea Island and continue north to Doubtful Sound.

'Doubtful' his ship could exit the narrow sound framed by towering cliffs, Cook never entered our final destination, but we're soon experiencing what the Resolution missed out on. Mist clings to forested hillsides, Tasman squalls sweep in to ignite multiple waterfalls, and the meeting of land and sea known to Māori as Patea ('Place of Silence') is worthy of its name.

Includes a one-way scenic helicopter ride - arrive or depart by helicopter

TRAVEL OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

We offer high-end adventure cruising aboard the Fiordland Jewel, our boutique catamaran, purpose-built to give guests like you a once-in-alifetime experience that you’ll never forget. With a maximum of just 18 passengers on board, all our nine climate-controlled cabins have sea views and private ensuites.

DON’T MISS OUT ON OUR AMAZING SPRING SPECIALS

Join us for an adventure to discover pristine remote wilderness and the untouched fiords of New Zealand’s largest national park or the secluded bays, rivers and inlets of Stewart Island and Rakiura National Park on one of our six-night scenic, history and nature expeditions.

Spring special rates start from $4,000 per person (twin share). A 25% discount applies to solo travellers.

Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds, including Preservation and Chalky Inlets

Paterson Inlet,

6 NIGHT FIORDLAND SOUTHERN FIORDS

6 NIGHT STEWART ISLAND

Port Adventure and Port Pegasus

Choosing the best health insurance for seniors

Achange of age may bring around the need for certain treatments or surgeries, like fixing cataracts or knee replacements. The likes of which are usually covered by the fancier Gold and Silver Plus plans with insurance companies.

Now's a good time to compare your health insurance choices and see if there's a better deal out there.

We've got some tips to help you check if your coverage is on point and maybe even score a cheaper premium for the next 12 months.

4 Categories of health coverage

Usually, health insurance plans are divided into four primary tiers:

• Basic: Offering minimal to no coverage for private hospital services.

• Bronze: Providing low-level coverage.

• Silver: Offering medium-level coverage.

• Gold: Delivering comprehensive or top-tier coverage.

Additionally, there are intermediary tiers, including Silver Plus, Bronze Plus, and Basic Plus policies, which extend coverage beyond the standard Silver, Bronze, or Basic plans.

Heart surgery, joint replacements, cataracts, dialysis, rehabilitation and pallative care are some common treatments that are covered only under the Gold plans with most insurance providers. When you’re assessing your existing policy or looking at quotes, take the following factors into account:

As you get older, your health needs can shift, so it's crucial to make sure your insurance is still a good fit.

While you may come across coverage for these treatments in lowertier plans, it's not always guaranteed. If you opt for a more budget-friendly policy like Silver Plus, be sure to closely monitor it to ensure it still includes the coverage you require.

If you're upgrading your coverage, be aware that there's a 12-month waiting period for conditions that weren't covered in your previous policy. Therefore, if you're anticipating surgery, make sure it's scheduled for after you've completed this waiting period.

Higher excess for lower premiums?

Before health insurance reforms in 2019, the highest excess you could choose was a maximum of $500. However, nowadays you have the option to select a higher excess, ranging up to $750 per person or $1500 per couple/family, for lower premiums.

An excess is the amount you pay out of pocket towards a hospital visit. Each time you have a hospital visit, you're responsible for covering the excess, and typically, this is limited to once per year for individuals and twice per year for couples or families.

Nevertheless, if you foresee the likelihood of needing surgery in the next two years, it's recommended to go for a policy with a lower or zero excess. While your premiums might be slightly higher, you won't face significant out-ofpocket expenses in the event of a hospital stay.

Also note that if you're transitioning from a higher excess to a plan with a low or no excess, there's a 12-month waiting period to consider. During this period, you'll still have coverage, but you'll need to pay the higher excess if you require hospital treatment.

No excess for day surgery

If you think you might have to go in for day surgery, like getting cataracts removed, aim for a policy that won't hit you with an extra charge for same-day procedures.

Check out these health funds that don't add an excess for day surgery on certain policies:

• GMHBA

• HCF

• Health Care Insurance

• Medibank

And if you're looking for reduced excess for day surgery, consider these:

• RT Health

• St.LukesHealth.

Is cancelling completely an option?

Thinking about ditching your health insurance altogether? While public hospitals in Australia do a great job with serious or life-threatening conditions, they can make you wait for things like cataract surgery or joint

replacements. So, if you've already got insurance and it's affordable for you, it's probably best to hang on to it. Take these factors into consideration:

Getting more value for money: Folks aged 60–79 tend to get the most out of their hospital insurance.

Bigger rebates: When you hit 65, you're in for a better rebate – that's the government's contribution that helps lower your premiums. For singles earning up to $93,000 and couples/ families bringing in up to $186,000, your rebate jumps from 24.6% to 28.7%. Starting April 1, 2021, it goes up again to 32.8% once you hit 75.

Family and partner perks: If one member of your family or your couple hits 65, the government rebate applies to the entire family or couples policy.

Now that you have the keys to choosing the best health insurance for seniors aged 65 and over, you can compare the health insurance providers and make any changes that suit your current circumstances.

The information provided in this article is of a general nature only and should not be considered as a recommendation or endorsement by PSPL of any product, service or advice contained in this publication. Please consider your personal circumstances and seek professional advice, if necessary.

Petrol pinching

About two years ago, in the thick of the pandemic, car owners hit a sweet spot with petrol prices dropping to their lowest in 22 years. Some lucky folks were scoring fuel for under a buck a litre. This happened because oil prices tanked to unheard-of lows, thanks to a surplus in supply during all those global lockdowns. At one crazy point, oil prices even went negative - a rare silver lining in the midst of COVID.

After that wild ride, prices started creeping up again as demand bounced back. Now, the pain of high fuel prices is back in full swing.

Just at the beginning of the month, regular unleaded prices in Sydney and Melbourne shot up to a whopping $2 per litre. They've eased off a bit since then, hovering around $1.80. The spike in fuel costs played a significant role in last month's surprisingly high inflation figures.

According to the Australian Automobile Association, Aussies fork out nearly $100 per week on fuel on average, making it among the top 10 household expenses. It is labelled as the third most stress-inducing expense, right after housing (rent/mortgage) and food. Simply put, petrol is a necessary but unpopular expense, especially when you get hit with unexpectedly high prices.

What to do about it?

Price comparison: There's a wide array of apps available that can help you find the best deals at service stations near you. You might be astonished by the difference in prices between locations just a few blocks apart. Check out these apps according to the state you are in to find the best fuel deals:

New South Wales & Australian

Capital Territory : NSW FuelCheck

Northern Territory : MyFuel NT

Queensland: RACQ Fair Fuel Finder

South Australia: FuelPrice Australia

Tasmania: FuelCheck Tas

Victoria: RACV Fuel Check

Western Australia: FuelWatch

Dockets and coupons: You can still snag a handy discount on fuel with Coles and Woolworths by getting 4 cents off per litre at their partnered

service stations when you hit a certain spending threshold at the supermarkets. If you're close to a Costco, it might be worth weighing the joining fee against the savings you'll make at their members-only service stations.

Eco-driving: This is when drivers adjust their driving habits to be more eco-friendly, they manage to save an average of 5%-40% on their fuel costs. Drivers looking to cut down on fuel consumption should adopt gentle acceleration, maintain a smooth flow with the traffic, drive at a lower speed, and try to steer clear of congestion whenever possible. Stopstart driving is notably fuelinefficient, so planning your travel to avoid congested

Petrol is a necessary but unpopular expense, especially when you get hit with unexpectedly high prices.

traffic can make a real difference. Some cars now have this built in as an automatic feature, which makes your car shut down at traffic lights and start again when you accelerate.

Inspect your car: Ensure it's running at its best. This involves inflating your tires to the correct pressure, minimizing drag by removing external additions like roof racks when they're not needed, and taking out any

unnecessary heavy items from your trunk. A heavier vehicle consumes more fuel, especially during city driving. It’s also worth using your air conditioning sparingly while on the road, as it can impact your fuel consumption.

Public transport: This isn’t always an option but where it is, you can opt to travel to your destination using public transport. Which will reduce the cost of petrol, the stress of driving and also servicing costs in the long run. This is an attractive option for seniors as they also get concession rates on public travel.

Car pooling: If you have a group who you can car pool with to reach your destination, you will be able to take turns to reach your activity, saving petrol costs, not to mention getting in a friendly catchup during the drive.

These are some creative ways to save money on petrol, given the current soaring prices of petrol and rapidly rising cost of living, these smaller actions will definitely add up to bigger sums in the long run.

Everything you need to know before buying an Electric Vehicle

Electric Vehicles (EV) are really taking off in Australia, with more and more people making the switch. In 2022, Aussies bought a whopping 33,410 fully electric cars.

And it's no wonder why. These EVs are super-efficient, quieter, and they don't spew out any CO2 from the tailpipe. Plus, they can pack a serious punch in terms of power compared to regular gas or hybrid cars.

What is an Electric Vehicle?

Forget everything you know about the common combustion engines which we have seen from the ages, where fuel is ignited to make an engine work which then turns the wheels.

When it comes to electric vehicles, they're pretty straightforward in terms of what makes them tick. You've got two main parts: an electric motor (or sometimes two if it's all-wheel drive) and a battery pack that gives it the juice. You won't spot an internal combustion engine under the hood, and there's no need for a fuel pump, gas tank, or oil pan. Forget about oil changes or smog checks – they're not on the menu. Instead, you need to charge an EV by plugging it into a socket, which can be purchased separately to install in your home or are available at public places like malls or parking lots.

How much does charging cost?

Charging your EV at a public charging station comes with a cost. The charging expenses can vary based on the charging network you opt for. It also hinges on the size of your EV's battery and its energy efficiency. Similar to petrol cars, EVs with higher efficiency tend to have lower refuelling costs.

However, let’s look at the average cost of refuelling the common Tesla Model 3 rearwheel drive, you'd spend roughly $20.70 to charge the vehicle from 20 percent to 80 percent.

For the average Australian driver covering around 15,000 km per year, at a public charging rate of $0.60/kWh, this would

total about $1,350 per year.

If a driver exclusively charges at home, they would spend less than $350 to cover 15,000km per year in an average EV. While home charging is the more economical choice, it may come at the expense of faster charging speeds.

How quick is charging?

Certain EVs can be fully charged in 20 minutes or less with a highpowered 350kW charger, whereas at some stations, it might take an hour or longer with lower-speed charging docks.

On the other hand, if you're charging your EV at home, expect slower speeds. It could take an entire night to fully charge using standard domestic AC power.

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Do EV’s need servicing?

Absolutely, electric cars do require maintenance, but not as frequently as traditional internal combustion engines.

One of the clear benefits is that you won't have to deal with tasks like oil changes, coolant replacements, or air filter swaps. Tesla, for instance, suggests tasks like changing the cabin filter, performing a tire rotation,

inspecting brake fluid, and ensuring the air conditioning functions properly.

Aside from these, you generally shouldn't have to think about servicing for roughly two years.

However, the cost for servicing EV’s is slightly higher than traditional cars, due to their niche nature and direct manufacturer servicing.

Do I need to have a charger at home if I buy an EV?

Having a wall box at home is a convenient option, and it's sometimes included as a bonus in the purchase of an EV. However, many individuals manage without one installed in their residence.

For some, installing a charger at home isn't possible, especially if they reside in sizable apartment complexes, which can pose a charging challenge. While it's possible to plug your EV into a standard domestic 240-volt outlet, the charging process will be quite slow.

The information provided in this article is of a general nature only and should not be considered as a recommendation or endorsement by PSPL of any product, service or advice contained in this publication. Please consider your personal circumstances and seek professional advice, if necessary.

A day trip to remember...

Enjoy a ferry ride & delicious lunch at Davistown RSL Club

Only 2 minutes walk from Woy Woy station the M.V Saratoga departs Fisherman’s Wharf Monday to Friday at 10.45am and 12.30pm and on the weekends at 10.45am and 12.30pm for a relaxing ride on the beautiful Brisbane Water If you would like to stop for a meal or light snack then just inform the captain. He will ring the club prior to your arrival and arrange for the courtesy bus to pick you up at Central Wharf. The bus will then depart the club at 1.15pm and 2.15pm for your return journey.

Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Broadwater Restaurant in Davistown RSL Club. Offering an extensive menu including daily specials, there’s sure to be something to tempt you. The all day coffee shop also offers light snacks, coffees and cakes. You can choose to sit inside along the windows, or outside on the deck where the views are stunning.

Group bookings are essential Ferry Bookings 0418 63 1313 or 4363 1311

www.centralcoastferries.com.au

Lunch Bookings or enquiries

Phone 02 4363 0199

www.davistownrsl.com.au

A Place in the Sun

Written by

The fields are a sea of golden sunflowers and the hills perfumed by lavender.

Perched on these hilltops are some of the most beautiful and ancient towns in Italy.

Lucignano, at the head of the valley is variously described as a ‘jewel’ or a ‘pearl’ and considered one of the most ‘un-damaged’ of the medieval fortress towns.

One of the most perfect examples of a 2000-yearplus Etruscan settlement, Lucignano is small when compared with Florence or Siena, therefore easy to navigate and explore.

Aided by its unique elliptical shape, the buildings and streets fan outwards, meet at its heart - the treed square of the Tribunal, with the Town Hall, the Church of St. Francis and the Collegiata.

Here the star exhibit in the town hall museum is the Tree of Gold.

This rare and precious reliquary is reputed to be the only tree-shaped shrine in the world.

With its golden branches The Tree was created by Ugolini di Vienri in 1350 but brought to its full 2.7 metre height by the goldsmith Gabriello d’Antonio in 1350.

To say this reliquary is rare, is an understatement.

It is priceless.

What makes the historical towns in the Chaina valley special is they are a little off the beaten coachtour route.

Rarely is there a queue, and often there’s only a handful of people in a magnificent church or cathedral.

While exploring excavated ruins, you can rest your arms on an Etruscan or Roman-built wall.

A short distance from Luginano is Arezzo, known for its gold craftsmanship, then Monte San Savino and Castiglion Fiorentino all breathtakingly beautiful and architecturally - historical marvels.

Not to miss is Montepulciano, famed for its fine wines, kept cool in ancient Etruscan cellars.

Fresh, crusty bread dipped in oil pressed from local olives along with meats and cheeses are served (freeof-charge) at perpetual wine tastings in the many venues in this truly, rural medieval and Renaissance hill-town.

Cortona, one of the oldest cities in Tuscany, built

This is rural Italy - the Chiana Valley in Tuscany, a panorama of green and gold fields encircled by undulating hills, terraced with olive groves.

Pauline Clayton

by the Etruscans, is another miniature version of the great Italian ancient cities, but without the relentless flow of tourists.

Famous for priceless frescoes and works of art, Cortona is a fun town, with fetes, festivals, coffee bars and fine food eateries.

Like all the medieval towns in this valley, there are the prerequisite ancient churches, monasteries, convents, and the breathtaking Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

The Cortona Museum is a storehouse of Etruscan and Roman pieces and famously the Tabula Cortonensis, the third longest Etruscan text in the world.

Tucked into the deep stone walls (Etruscan didn’t use mortar, the Roman’s did) are the bookstores, toy shops, florists, supermarkets, pharmacy, the

café’s the restaurants and the artisan’s workshops.

A short drive outside the valley is Padua, where the archaeological digs revealing Etruscan and Roman antiquities are easily accessible.

Padua boasts the largest town square (piazza) in Italy. Its university also attracts students from around the world.

In the warmer months, when restaurants set up outdoor dining, the artisans their stalls, the performers their stage, the square is the place to start or end the day.

In this region of ancient fortress towns, the present and past coexist with ease.

When it comes to accommodation, in Tuscany, you can stay in a family villa, not quite an apartment and more than an AirBnB.

My good fortune was to find La Maesta (Tuscansun.com.au), set in a terraced olive grove, between Cortona and Arezzo, a short drive from Castiglion Fiorentino.

La Maesta is a third-generation small farm holding.

The Lazzeri family embraced Agritourism when established by the Italian government in 1985 to assist small farmers.

Since 1986, outbuildings constructed by host Rosalinda’s grandfather have been converted into accommodation villas, with all modern conventions while retaining the high ceilings and other unique Tuscan features.

Well-aged marble tops, lovingly polished oak furniture, large armchairs - not a flat-pack in sight.

Solid, comfortable, and homely.

The best time of the year to enjoy this region is May/June, September/October.

Despite being there at the height of the season, never once, during my exploration of the medieval towns, did I stand in a queue.

It has been said about Italy, nothing gets done on time, the train schedule is a farce, and pasta is served at every meal.

That’s about right.

And gloriously so, as there’s pasta, and then there’s pasta made by Rosalinda Lasseri using local oil, herbs and freshly picked local produce.

Try pasta with melted cheese and pepper.

As for the trains, if you miss one, another comes along soon enough.

This is, after all, the nation of design, quality, and style. None of which evolves in a hurry.

And, as so often seen in paintings, this is the land of sentinel conifers, chestnut and oak trees, stone wall terraces, olive groves, grape vines, hedges of lavender and sage, wild red poppies, geraniums, roses, basil, fennel, mint, lemon balm and fields of sunflowers.

No wonder the air at LaMaesta is lightly perfumed.

Step into the shadows of Sydney's captivating past on mesmerising tours led by the historian and archaeologist Elliot Lindsay. On this not-so-typical walking tour, you will meander through dark alleys and winding lanes, exploring the history of Sydney’s oldest inner suburbs. Delve into Sydney's historical underworld as Elliot expertly navigates you around the old slums, hotels, gaols and cottages to historical crime scenes and the battlegrounds of notorious street gangs. Best of all, each tour ends at a historical pub.

The founder of Murders Most Foul in 2020, Elliot's passion for unearthing history's darkest corners has led countless curious souls through the labyrinthine streets of Surry Hills, Darlinghurst, Sydney Harbour, Kings Cross and Balmain. Beyond captivating walking tours, Elliot engages audiences with riveting historical crime-themed talks in Sydney's most favourite heritage hotels.

Experience the allure of history with an exclusive offer for Probus members, granting a remarkable 20% discount on all tours and talks. Embark on an unforgettable journey into Sydney's past with Murders Most Foul and Elliot as your guide, where every step unearths a new layer of intrigue and mystery.

Website: www.murdersmostfoul.com

Email address: elliot@murdersmostfoul.com

The Probus South Pacific Limited Member Benefits Scheme offers members exclusive discounts from a variety of participating businesses. All you need to do is present your Probus South Pacific Limited membership card or quote your membership number if booking online or by phone.

Probians have exclusive access to a wide range of excellent discounts and terrific deals. To view a list of all offers click here.

Vale Bob Burnett OAM

He could be called the Founding Father of Probus in Australia. But he is officially known as a Foundation Member.

Yes, in the formal Constitution of Probus South Pacific Limited, under Definitions in the opening paragraphs, is the listing:

“Foundation Member” means the natural person Bob Burnett.

It is unusual to see such an entry in a constitution but in Bob’s case it is most worthy.

Back in 1976, as an erstwhile member of Rotary, he promulgated the startup of the Probus organisation in Australia.

Now, Probus clubs all around Australia and New Zealand number about 1500 and have about 100,000 members.

The clubs that provide fun, friendship and fellowship for retired men and women owe thanks to our friend Bob Burnett.

Bob Burnett passed away in June this year at 92 years old.

Probus had actually commenced in the southern hemisphere in New Zealand a few years before. Australia followed quite independently of both the New Zealand start-up and the prior British beginnings of Probus, and it was Bob who nurtured the start-up here in Australia.

Wearing his Rotary District Governor’s hat, Bob during at least one visit to UK brought back ideas and oversaw the youthful active Rotarians

fostering a club for the wellbeing of the aged.

What an admirable achievement for Bob and for Rotary.

Probus really took off from its Hunters Hill club commencement under Bob’s drive and enthusiasm.

And what a huge success it has been!

Bob Burnett OAM was quite rightfully proud of this wonderful contribution to Australian society, and he continued all his life as a Probus member and always in very close contact with Probus South Pacific (or its forerunner organisations) – the entity which has always supported Probus clubs in Australia and New Zealand.

Bob’s personality is written all over the wonderful friendly atmosphere that is the feature of all Probus clubs today.

Immediate Past Chairman of Probus Judith Maestracci said.

“In addition to the meaningful contributions Bob made to both Rotary and Probus, he was a wonderful man, a true gentleman. It has been a real pleasure for the leaders of Probus to see Bob each year, because he never missed a Probus South Pacific annual general meeting”.

As the founding, yes, the very first, Chairman of what was then called the Probus Information Centre, Bob himself had these words to say following the successful Hunters Hill start-up in 1976:

“I had the opportunity in 1977 to advise all my fellow incoming district governors from around Australia that we were really ‘on to something with an organisation called Probus’. I gave them a hand-out

on how it worked. Those governors met each year and gleefully reported annually that ‘Bob, you were right!’”.

By the beginning of 1981, 44 Probus clubs had been formed in Australia and New Zealand. On the 3rd of February of that year, five Rotarians of the Sydney metropolitan area gathered for a now historic meeting at Bob’s shoe shop in Pacific Highway Turramurra and the Probus Information Centre was formed on that day with Bob Burnett as Chairman.

That has now become the highly organised and effective Probus South Pacific Limited

And then a little later around 1982, Bob had this to say:

“The world at this time had tilted on its axis. Ladies had demanded the right to join Rotary – and succeeded. Inevitably, the phone call came to me from a lady: ‘Surely I have as much reason to join Probus as a man?’ she said.

The Probus centre board immediately acceded to my suggestion and ladies came into Probus!”

PSPL AGM, 2017

PSPL AGM, 2018

In June 2022, Robert Sugden Burnett of Turramurra NSW was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the community through a range of organisations. His history is so interesting, showing a life of colour, community and commitment:

Bob joined Rotary in 1964 and was:

• Member of Hornsby Rotary Club 1964-68

• Inaugural President of the Rotary Club of Turramurra in NSW 1968-69

• Life Member of the Rotary Clubs of Turramurra and Blackheath

• Rotary District 9685 Governor in 1978-79

• Member inaugural Committee of the Probus Centre from 1980-92

• Probus Founding Chairman from 1980-87

Other highlights of Bob’s life are:

• Treasurer, Bi-centennial Committee Ku-ring-gai 1986-88

• Committee Member, Brain Injury Division, Australian Brain Foundation 1987-91

• Inaugural Chair of Trustees, Northholm Grammar School, Arcadia 1982-96

• Former President Ku-ring-gai Rostrum Club

• National Footwear Retailers’ Association

• National President, 1981-83

• President, NSW Branch, 1979-81

Publications

• Author, Gold Dust on the Wool.

• Author, The Classer.

• Awards and recognition include:

• Paul Harris Fellow, Rotary International - 7 occasions between 1978 and 2014

Bob passed away peacefully. He was predeceased by his wife Lyn and leaves their children Duncan and Kate with their respective partners Sandie and Rod.

I was fortunate to represent Probus South Pacific at Bob’s funeral on 27 June. I happen to belong to a Probus club based at Warrawee right next door to Bob’s old stamping ground –Turramurra. I came to know Bob through his late brother Don Burnett a fellow Probus club member and Don’s lovely wife Sue. My Probus club meets at the Warrawee Bowling Club where in recent years one could always run into Bob himself, him being a member of that club too – of course!

To run into Bob, a man for whom I and others have such high admiration and to enjoy the warmth of his personality was one of the pleasures of life.

Vale Bob, old friend.

Bill Killinger AM Former Director,

Limited

Probus South Pacific

Bob is pictured recieving a plaque on the inaugural Probus Day on 1 October 2020 in honour of his contribution to Probus.

Extra! Extra!

Read all about it!

The following section of Club News features Club activities and members creative writing pieces. Even during challenging times, Probians continue to embrace the true spirit of Fun, Friendship and Fellowship. To have your Club’s event, trip or member submissions potentially featured in Active Retirees magazine, please send the following to marketing@probussouthpacific.org

1. A short description of 50 to 150 words for Club News and up to 300 words for Creative Writing

2.A photo as a separate attachment (photos embedded in Word documents or PDFs are often compressed and too low-resolution for print)

3.Try to send the original, full-sized photo if possible (these are generally higher resolution than those pulled from Facebook, for example)

We look forward to receiving your submissions!

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An exciting couple of months

Having celebrated their 40th Anniversary in May, Alstonville Probus members were privileged to be able to celebrate the 100th birthday with member, June.

June’s birthday coincided with their meeting day so she came along, together with her 3 daughters, to celebrate with members. On arrival, June was welcomed with a guard of honor by fellow members and then presented with a card, cake, and plant.

The guest speaker for the day was our Ballina Shire Mayor, Sharon Cadwallader, who graciously arrived early in time to join in the celebration and also assisted with June’s cake cutting.

At the conclusion of the meeting June thanked members for her birthday celebration and then recited a poem (all three verses) titled ‘A Smile’. Wow, what an amazing 100 year old.

20 th anniversary celebration Life membership at Coolangatta/ Tweed Probus Club

The Junction Combined Probus Club held its 20th Anniversary Meeting and members enjoyed a delicious cake.

At the last meeting of the Coolangatta/Tweed Probus Club President Gay Harding presented member Ian with Life Membership. The Club members are honoured to have Ian as a member of the Club and Management Committee.

Club News

NSW / Games spectacle

Fern Bay Probus members enjoyed a visit to Aberdeen in the Hunter Valley for the Highland Games spectacle on July 1.

Departing at 6.30am in order to arrive on time to witness the opening ceremony, the forty Probus members were entertained with a Parade of Bands to open proceedings followed by Pipe Band displays throughout the day, Highland and Country Dancing and lots of Strong Man events. There were a multitude of stores and stands surrounding the area selling all manner of Scottish heirlooms and souvenirs. All in all, a wonderful day was had by all.

To read more about other members’ activities, visit the Club News Section of the Probus website. probussouthpacific.org

Castle Hill and District Probus Club celebrates their 10 th birthday

On 6 June, 2023 marked the 10th Anniversary of the first meeting of Castle Hill & District Probus Club. From a humble 20 person meeting back in 2013 the Club grew very quickly to the 200 members they boast today.

About 160 members joined in this fabulous celebration where they honoured the Foundation Members, Foundation Committee, and 7 “Sustained Service” members. Members were treated to performances by their own Choir, two of whose songs were written for this occasion.

Several Club ukulele players led a sing-along and they had two poetry readings of poems penned especially in celebration of this birthday. Add to this a lovely lunch and great birthday cake and all in all a great time reminiscing was enjoyed by everyone. Members couldn’t be prouder of their great Club.

A day in the life of a Gymea Probus member

Life Membership Award

The Probus Club of Port Stephens has honoured long-time member, Peter with Life Membership. This all happened at the last meeting when President John Rebrik explained to members that Peter had been put forward to receive this well-deserved honour. He was very surprised but very chuffed!

Interesting tour

“Members of Wagga Sunset Probus Club visited the Soldier’s Chapel at Kapooka Army Base in Wagga. Members had a very interesting tour and explanations by a member of the Kapooka staff and the Clubs Vice President Angus

A

perfect Sydney Winter day

Walks have been the one of the staples that kept the Willoughby North Probus Club connected through the last couple of ‘unusual’ years. This month’s walk was an Historical walk around Kirribilli encompassing some beautiful examples of 1800’s architecture as well as Admiralty House, Kirribilli House, the Ensemble Theatre and the many small parks along the way.

So many members had some family history or a story to recount as they walked around the streets. It was a walk where they got to know each other just a little bit better with each story told.

Cute stack of baby lamb jumpers heading to the farm

For several years Warners Bay Ladies

Probus Club knitting group has been making baby lamb jumpers and distributing them to farmers around Australia and have sent approximately 2,000 baby lamb jumpers to date.

Who Killed Sir Roger Watersdown?

The combined Probus Club of Loftus NSW recently held a “Host A Murder” luncheon.

The scene set in 1936 was at the palatial home of Sir Roger Watersdown, who unfortunately was found dead just after his guests arrived for the weekend.

All members dressed for the occasion in 1936 outfits, and everyone was a suspect to his murder.

Club News

Happy snaps

Here are some happy snaps from Forresters Beach Probus Club with a visit to Norfolk Island, followed by Tasmania and a short stay at The Carrington at Katoomba with High Tea at Lilianfels.

Archibald 2023

Northmead & District Probus had a lovely visit to the Art Gallery NSW. The lady conducting our private tour was very informative as to how the artist composed their art submission and why.

Members enjoyed viewing paintings of Archie (Roach), Claudia (Karvan) & Packers prize Cal (Wilson), to name a few. Lunch @ Crafted by Matt Moran in the gallery was very good and the view of Sydney harbour a major bonus.

A Christmas in July menu with bubbles

Bangor Combined Probus members enjoyed a double celebration with Christmas in July and their 15th birthday at Ardency Aroona Village Restaurant.

30 th birthday celebration

Campbelltown

Ladies Probus Club celebrated their 30th birthday at their July meeting. A good morning of fun and celebrations was had by members. Vice President Christine cut the cake.

Christine has held most positions over the many years of her membership.

Ten Pin Bowling

After a very pleasant morning tea, members from Darwin Probus Club moved to Kingpin Darwin, where they had a good morning. Member Ron led the players with a score of 118, closely followed by member Henri with 112. A fun day for everyone who joined.

Crafting, creativity and coffee

Every Friday a group of talented ladies from Marrara Probus Club join together for their craft group. This is a great group of very talented ladies and all who join enjoy a great morning together.

more about

Tuggeranong members visit to Sydney

A fully escorted Trade Travel Tour to see the Tina Turner Musical & experience Sydney highlights was enjoyed by members of the Probus Club of Tuggeranong.

The small group of holiday makers departed by coach from cold Canberra to make their way up to Sydney where they met fellow Probians from QLD, VIC and SA.

It was a wonderful experience to visit the southern beaches of Sydney, sun, surf and good food.

Across the Harbour Bridge members spent three nights in very comfortable accommodation where from the hotel rooms they enjoyed stunning views of the magnificent Sydney Harbour.

The trip included a visit to Parramatta, cruising on the River Cat Ferry, mingled with the bustling crowd at Circular Quay, viewing the nightlights while dining at the Sydney Tower Restaurant.

Members enjoyed guided tours of the iconic Sydney Opera House, magnificent St. Mary’s Cathedral followed by a visit to the Queen Victoria Building.

As much as visiting the attractions was fun, for many it was settling into the comfy seats in the theatre to view the Musical Tina Turner that was the main highlight. What a show!

How quickly friendships were formed on this tour with others from different locations. As each went their separate ways to travel back to their respective homes, members reflected on what a memorable trip it was and the many attractions and activities they had enjoyed.

This was certainly a trip full of fun, friendship, fellowship, good food, great entertainment, and enriching experiences.

Christmas in July celebrations at Chermside

Chermside Probus Club (QLD) celebrated Christmas in July with a beautiful lunch at the Fox and Hound which is an Old English Pub in the Hinterland and a visit to the Queensland Police Museum.

Broadbeach Ladies give a toss – Pancakes that is!

At a recent meeting of the Broadbeach Ladies Probus Club, their guest speaker was Red Frogs Australia founder Andy Gourley.

Red Frogs recognises that the culture of young people is dominated by alcohol. Red Frogs volunteers act as the eyes and ears in accommodation venues and out on the streets, providing a positive peer presence to the school leavers.

Thanks to the Broadbeach Ladies, the Red Frogs Crew have plenty of pancake shakers on hand for lots of cookups this coming schoolies!!!!

Back to the seventies

interact and participate in all the activities.

The club’s activities cover: Cruises, short trips, long trips, day trips, mini golf, boat & fishing cruises, games mornings, lunches, barbecues, picnics, wine tasting afternoons, a book club, a weekly walking group, theatre outings, Melbourne Cup celebrations, and Guess who’s coming. You will never be at a loss to do something with this Club, that’s for sure.

Sorrento Probus Club’s, Xmas in July!

Recently, Sorrento Probus Club enjoyed an excellent two course Xmas luncheon on the Gold Coast.

Irish Tavern, Darcy Arms was the amazing venue, delightfully decorated with Irish memorabilia!

Thirty members appropriately dressed for Xmas enjoyed the roasts and Xmas pudding!

Out and about

Kenmore Village members enjoy many outings throughout the year. Recently members visited Meigunyah House, a heritage-listed home providing social and architectural history.

Also pictured here are members on a visit to an alpaca farm.

A Crack(l)ing good time at Jimboomba

The Christmas in July lunch, on the sixth of this month, for MacGregor Probus Club members was one to remember...for varied reasons. One was the scouring of the Jimboomba House floor, by Santa, who instead of giving gifts was trying to reunite Vonnie with one of her teeth, which, sadly, met its demise due to the lovely crispy pork rind.

It had been a bracing morning, thankfully warmed up by the time we arrived, to be met at the door by Santa (June) and her little helpers, Pat and Toni, who handed out the lucky door prize tickets, then everyone settled in to enjoy the day, at the beautifully-decorated tables, snapping the bon bons, scattering hats and party favors and telling those corny jokes we all love.

As always, the meal and sweets were unsurpassable, coffee and tea hot, the foaming chilled to perfection, all of which made it a great success, enjoyed hugely -- one of the signature days in their Probus year!

Varsity Lakes Probus celebrates 20 th anniversary

Fifty Six members and visitors enjoyed the celebration of 20 Years of Varsity Lakes Probus Club on 21st June 2023. Foundation member and Past President Jo Kelly was surrounded by President Lynda Berney and five past presidents while she cut the celebration cake. President Lynda presented Jo with her 20yr Badge and mentioned the several positions which Jo had filled, and that she had helped to make the club interesting and enjoyable over those 20years.

Councillor Hermann Vorster congratulated the members on achieving 20 years of providing interest and activities for retirees.

A wonderful morning tea was enjoyed by all, a fitting celebration of 20 years of Probus Club of Varsity Lakes.

Celebrations at West Beach Probus Probus Club of Unley

The Combined Probus Club of West Beach celebrated their 30th birthday by being entertained by Molfettese Singers followed by a luncheon.

Pictured are members Pat and Lorraine who have been members at the Club from the beginning.

40 th Birthday Hip hip hooray!

On July 25th, Payneham Probus were able to host a celebration for their Member Don, who completed 100 years on this planet on July 29th 2023!

To help in the celebrations, Don was accompanied by his son David and David’s wife, Christine.

The Hon. Vincent Tarzia, Member for Hartley, was present and delivered a heartfelt thank you to Don for service to his country and involvement in the community over the years.

Don joined Payneham Probus in November 2002 and served in most positions in the 8 years that he was on the committee, notably, as President, Vice President and Treasurer.

Robert Bria, Mayor of Norwood Payneham and St Peters described Don as an exemplary citizen. At Payneham Probus, members describe him as a very nice gentleman and an exemplary member!

Happy Birthday Don!

The Probus Club of Unley celebrated 40 years of their club. The meeting room was decked out in blue and yellow, when 74 Members, also dressed in an array of blue & yellow came through the door Fullarton Park Community Centre. Also in attendance were 16 invited guests including the Mayor of Unley Michael Hewitson, David Pisoni MP Member for Unley and representatives from Probus Clubs of Edwardstown & Norwood.

Two new members were inducted on this special day and Maurice, who joined Unley Probus Club in 2003, was honoured as a long-standing member, after 20 years at the club. MP David Pisoni presented a certificate to the Club from Probus South Pacific Limited acknowledging 40 years of friendship. The Mayor Michael Hewitson talked about progress in the Unley Council area.

A sponge cake filled with lemon curd and decorated in blue and yellow ribbon and flowers was cut by Lelene who joined Unley Ladies Probus in 1995 and the combined Probus in 2005. The room was a buzz with conversation, connection, and cake!

Milestone anniversary

The members at the Probus Club of Stirling enjoyed their 40th Birthday Lunch in the Robert Charles Dining Room Auchendarroch.

Lunch and a good old chinwag

Recently 35 Payneham Probus members enjoyed an excellent “Christmas in July” lunch and a good old chinwag at the Windsor Hotel in Windsor Gardens, SA . It was a lovely lunch and everyone lingered on for quite a while chatting.

Wealth of local knowledge A Visit to The Maritime Museum

Adelaide North Combined Probus recently were fortunate to have a speaker from the Baptist Church of North Adelaide, who had such a wealth of knowledge about the History of North Adelaide Churches and kept everyone entertained for over an Hour. After their monthly meeting members had the privilege of visiting the Baptist church, right next door. Such a lovely Church, unusual in design, but fascinating inside, the acoustics are great, because of the design of the Church Floor. Everyone had been enthralled with their experience.

What a fantastic morning it turned out to be as members from Adelaide North Combined Probus started with a visit to the Maritime Museum in Port Adelaide.

A real eye opener, the Museum has a “full size” coastal ship inside, as well as artifacts from ships of a bygone era. After the tour members had lunch at the Lighthouse Hotel just around the corner from the Museum. The selection of meals were so good, fantastic value, served with a smile.

Mad Hatter’s Long Table Tea Party Mother’s Day High Tea Lunch

Members of Victor Harbor/Granite Probus Club enjoyed an afternoon of fun recently when Activities Officer Tracey arranged a Mad Hatter’s long table tea party. Held in the Church of Christ Hall which was transformed into ‘Wonderland’, there were drinks on arrival and wandering minstrels as everyone mingled together. The movie Alice in Wonderland was screened in the background. Afternoon tea was a relaxed time of chatting and feasting on a most delicious array of small savouries and cakes prepared by Tracey’s team of ladies. There were prizes for the best Mad Hat, Teapot and Coffeepot.

The Ladies Probus club of Modbury celebrated Mother’s Day as a High Tea lunch during their May meeting. The menu was arranged and some of the members willingly and happily supplied the requested food which was beautifully displayed on 3 tiered plates. All members were asked to bring their favourite cup, saucer and plate and were provided with a wonderful selection of specialty teas and coffee which was brewed in a variety of beautiful tea pots.

Stunning hats were provided to wear which made everyone all feel very special. The local MP Olivia Savvas was invited and she happily joined in with

Renmark Getaway

In May, 15 Unley Probus Members had a wonderful time away at Renmark and Paringa South Australia for a late Autumn Getaway. While it was pouring with rain in Adelaide, members were very fortunate to have blue skies with only a few light showers, excellent meals, cafés, tours and wonderful sunsets.

Renmark Patisserie in the main street and Arristo Coffee where they roast their own coffee (and was once a Fire Station), both had fantastic coffee and lunch options.

Within walking distance is the Renmark Opportunity Store, where we put in a bit of time hunting for just the right bargain. Yes, most members came away with an item or two.

Paringa Cammies Antiques has a massive display of just about everything. The store is super clean and tidy and open every day. Making it an ideal place to shop for a treasure to take home.

Dinner in the beautifully refurbished section of the Hotel Renmark was welcoming, with great meals and service.

On a sunset River Boat Cruise, leaving from the Woolshed Brewery, members were able to take their dogs for a ride with them, as they viewed the majestic waterways of the River Murray and creek areas. Lunch at the new Riverland Wine Centre at Lyrup was a wonderful way to pass the day. Beautiful food, wines and scenery made for a perfect day.

Members agreed that Renmark was a great place for a Getaway and that being a small group of people, gave them the opportunity to get to know each other better.

Special memories of a wonderful time

Devonport City Probus Club members celebrated Christmas in July lunch at Argosy Hotel, East Devonport. Members were entertained by the East Devonport Primary School Choir and the man in red - Santa Devonport. They were served a delicious lunch which was enjoyed with great company.

Annual quiz day 40 th Anniversary celebrations

A number of Devonport City Probus members attended Quiz Day at Sheffield. This is held yearly by Kentish Probus Club. All members sure had many laughs and made some new friends.

The Probus Club of Kingston celebrated it’s 40th anniversary in June 2023 with a lunch at Oyster Cove Inn where 43 members and partners enjoyed very tasty meals. President Len Lambeth gave a brief outline of the club’s history. Senator Catryna Bilyk made a speech and presented a framed 40 year anniversary certificate to President Len and wished the club plenty of ensuing years of “Fun, Fellowship and Friendship”. Senator Bilyk then asked the Clubs longest serving member of 36 years, Ross, to cut the anniversary cake.

Since the clubs inception, it has engaged in many and varied activities, known as Special Interest Groups which include walks, outings, coffee mornings, wine tasting, photography and lunches, to name a few. At each of the general meetings they always have a Guest Speaker covering a variety of interesting subject matters which last for one hour. Over the past four years they have run a very successful and popular Cryptic Car Trial and participated in annual Quiz Nights,

An adventure in culture and time travel

The Probus Club of Eaton travelled south to Yallingup. It was a cold foggy morning – well, cold at least, the fog was their hot breath on the windows. The fields were green and soggy, the bush was green and soggy but although it rained from time to time during the day, they managed to dodge it, so we were not soggy (nor green).

The destination was Ngilgi Cave and with host/guide Koomal (Josh “Koomal” Whiteland) of Koomal Dreaming Cape Cultural Experiences.

The cave is a wonderful place. The steep stairwell into it creaked and groaned as members descended into the warm depths – it is 19⁰C-20⁰C all year round. Stalactites and stalagmites decorated the walls and ceiling, looming out of the dark depths. The amphitheater is enormous and has spinetingling acoustics, as members discovered when Koomal played a song on his didgeridoo. Then there was the opportunity to explore down the steps, more steps or even more steps to the bottom of the cave (or not!).

Once back to the surface at the brand-new meeting place it was time for their journey back in time. Koomal showed various traditional tools and weapons and explained the makeup and use of each one.

The local environment provided all the resources needed for a traditional and rich lifestyle. Even today, Koomal will use the spear from a grasstree (Balga) as a fire stick. He showed how this was done and in no time, there was a whisp of smoke rising up. Especially poignant was his grandfather’s boomerang, made over 100 years ago using a stone to smooth it rather than a rasp. For an interactive experience, Koomal played songs on the didgeridoo and drum while a number of members provided rhythm with the tapping sticks. It was great fun. This outing was a wonderful experience.

Mystery Solved!!!!!

Forty-eight “clueless” Probians from a number of clubs and some Rose Society members arrived early at the Eaton Foreshore. The heading was out through the beautiful green paddocks of Dardanup and up into the Ferguson Valley. It was a visit to Val’s Tin Shed. Well, the shed was made of color bond but inside was the most eclectic collection of tins, boxes, packets and memorabilia that you could possibly imagine.

What a fascinating walk down memory lane it was. All around you could hear

“My Grandmother had biscuits in that tin”, “I keep my cottons in that tin”, “Mum used to put Flavine on my skinned knees”. “I had one of those toy sewing machines”. See, not just tins!

Almost any tin you can imagine from the last 100 years was to be found on the shelves and either before or after viewing you were welcome to a fantastic morning tea of cakes, scones with homemade jam and egg sandwiches.

The mystery tour, however, continued. Everyone arrived at the Fine Timber Company. How fortunate you are when your passion becomes your profession. This is what happened to Derek Doak. He has a small one log sawmill and saws logs into wonderful slabs and planks that are used by timber firms and hobbyists to make high quality timber furniture. Derek stated this as a hobby but has moved to this large acreage where he has accumulated over $1M of timber.

The wonderful thing about mystery tours is when you go to someplace that you would never otherwise visit. This was such a place. Magnificent.

The next stop was lunch – at the Mumby Pub. After lunch, everyone headed back towards Donnybrook but turned onto Thomson Road towards Thomson Brook Estate winery. What a lovely little place this was!

The day eventually came to an end – what a great day!

Bus tour to luxurious settings

There were 38 members and friends who departed the Fremantle Sailing Club, in very wet conditions, they travelled to Pinjarra to the Edenvale Heritage Precinct. The 17 roomed house there was built in 1888 by Edward McLarty and his son Sir Ross McLarty, who also lived there, was a Premier of WA. In drizzly weather, everyone sheltered on the verandah to have morning tea.

They then travelled north to the Peel Manor House in Karnup. This Georgian styled Manor House set in 10.5 acres of parkland served a traditional 3 course lunch in luxurious settings. Service was impecable, the food very good and with a wide variety of alcoholic drinks available.

The Combined Probus Club of Syndal celebrate turning 21

Twenty one good years, even with Covid restriction at their door. Thank goodness for zoom and Tony Wilsons Thursdays Travelogue, not forgetting Friday Happy Hour. The Club survived and are still growing.

Through the years they have been able to grow to a Club of 150 active members.

The Clubs Past President summed it up in his final message as Club President, what Probus means.

“As the minutes tick by, members arrive in a steady stream. They are carrying boxes, signage, and catering items-all to be set out in their prearranged places. Cheery voices and laughter builds as more members arrive taking up tasks or talking in groups or just finding a seat. Then after a busy 2 hours, all is cleaned up and left as it was found. It’s inspiring. I often think that we are like a beehive with everyone working for the team.” Team Probus. Fun, friendship and fellowship.

Cheers from all our members from the Combined Probus Club of Syndal.

Pictured are members day outing on a unique bus tour of temples and mosques through the Dandenong Interfaith Network.

All that glisters…

The saying all that glisters… is not as old as the Gold it addresses but has been mentioned by many for millennia. It was probably in ancient Egypt that gold became part of everyday life. In the 21st century gold is still omnipresent in all societies and is a universal source and mark of wealth. It is regarded as a safeguard against paper currency.

At the July meeting of the Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea members got “down and dirty” when the guest speakers gave an exhilarating address about prospecting.

Mike Phillips is the President of the Prospectors and Miners Association of Victoria [PMAV] co-opted David Kleesh a local from Eden Park, [whose parents Ken and Audrey were members of Whittlesea Probus] to assist with the discourse of information.

Members learned about the history of metal detectors that arrived in Western Australia in the late 1970s. Then they cost about AU$800.00 and penetrated about 8 inches into the ground. Today the latest penetrates more than a metre but cost upwards of ten thousand dollars.

To read more about other members’ activities, visit the Club News Section of the Probus website. probussouthpacific.org

Heritage steam train outing

Members of Frankston Combined Probus enjoyed a Sunday visit and ride on the Moorooduc to Mornington heritage railway.

They gathered on the platform of the old Moorooduc station, where four heritage carriages and a guard’s van were waiting to be coupled up to the beautifully green painted 100 year old K163 steam driven locomotive.

Following a short introduction by a member of the Mornington Railway Preservation Society, they boarded carriage 24, which was especially reserved for the group. The train whistle blew, and they were off. Rock n rolling riding at a sedate pace, the train chugged along through woodland and across main roads with flashing lights until finally coming to a halt in Mornington between Watt Road and Tanti Creek. With a 15-minute break for the driver to relocate the engine to the other end of the train, they were all aboard for the return journey and a bit of a snack and chatter along the way. How quickly time flies when you’re having fun. They arrived back at Moorooduc in next to no time!

Happy days

Here are some snaps from Benalla Rose City Probus Club outings.

Trip to the Alma Doepel

Melbourne Bearbrass Probus Club had a great trip to the Alma Doepel restoration project. The work site is as big as an aircraft hangar and full of dusty materials, equipment and long masts awaiting restoration. The masts are so high, indeed, that in the design of the BOLTE Bridge, its height was raised several metres to enable to Alma Doepel to pass through.

What an experience for Probus members to see sailing-ship history coming back to life!

It’s a celebration

Heidelberg Probus Club members celebrated 40 years of comradeship in style at St. Georges Church Hall, East Ivanhoe.

comes to town

The Combined Probus Club of Belmont Central members had a lovely celebration with a Christmas in July Luncheon.

Life Member Jan Girls Night Out

Bittern Combined Probus Club recently granted Life membership to member Jan who has served the club in several different roles and as such has been a great example of how involvement enriches both yourself and the club as a whole.

Autumn in the high country

Pakenham Central Probus Club members enjoyed an outing to Lightscape at The Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne.

In late autumn, members of the Combined Probus Club of Monash enjoyed five days based at Bright Chalet in north-eastern Victoria’s picturesque high country. The weather was cool but sunny, and the colour in the deciduous European trees was spectacular.

During their stay, the group explored the Victorian gold rush-era towns of Harrietville, Wandiligong (registered with the National Trust of Australia as an historic landscape), and Beechworth with its well-preserved historic buildings. In Yarrawonga on the Murray River, members enjoyed a luncheon cruise on Lake Mulwala.

Contributions were made to the local economy during visits including Buller Wines, the Red Stag Deer and Emu Farm, Pumpkin Seeds Australia and Nicholas Brothers Alpine Apple Orchards and produce store.

A special treat was an after-dinner lecture and demonstration by local artist, Meagan Oberhardt, who described her unusual technique of painting with fire and displayed her work.

A highlight of the tour was the wonderful daily cooked breakfasts and dinners and the obliging staff.

35 th Anniversary

The Probus Club of Castlemaine Inc. celebrated its 35th Anniversary recently with special guests and club members enjoying a delicious morning tea.

The club was formed in April 1988 by the Rotary Club of Castlemaine with approximately 52 members.

The club has continued to thrive during this time with the membership enjoying many & varied activities including trips, interesting guest speakers, visits & great fellowship.

Party time!

Eltham North Probus Club recently celebrated our 30th anniversary with a party and presentations to long-standing members.

The Probus Club of Eltham North has just celebrated its 30th anniversary with a party including games, a 1993 trivia quiz, and lots of cake! Members decorated the tables with cards, ribbons, lollies, whistles and poppers, for a ‘back to childhood’ feel.

A good time was had by all and members look forward to the next 30 years of their Club.

Fourteen members and friends of Watsonia Probus Club recently travelled to Norfolk Island and all agreed that they had a wonderful time

Many fun nights were had with a Fish Fry; a Progressive Dinner, a Breakfast Bush Walk and a Clifftop BBQ. The Cyclorama, an amazing 360 degree panoramic painting of the world’s most famous mutiny, which created the Norfolk Island family, was quite moving.

Special luncheon

The Combined Probus Club of Knox celebrated its 25th Birthday. Members attended a special luncheon and welcomed some of the original 1998 Foundation members who are still active within the club. They were honoured drive the Scenic Route along Steiglitz Road and eleven chose the Steep Route down Pendrisat Road. The new yellow flags were in use for the Steep Route.

The Steep Group, taking Perdrisat Road, right off Ballarat Road (A300), just after leaving Lethbridge, didn’t have long to wait before they glimpsed the mind-boggling Moorabool River Valley below as they drove down the steep winding road and up the other side into the small township of Maude. The view stretches from the far left to the far right! A couple of wineries and a B&B are down in the valley too.

By the time everyone pulled into the Lookout it was very overcast, spitting, and blowing a gale! Once inside the Shelter all were quite comfortable and made themselves a cuppa and some had a bite to eat.

Members learnt a little about the Bunjil Lookout which takes its inspiration from the indigenous story of the wedge-tailed eagle, Bunjil. From the air the roof is in the shape of an eagle in flight overlooking the Moorabool River Valley with its spectacular view of the surrounding farming land and vineyards below.

Some of the group had already checked out the lookout but the later arrivals braved the weather, and they were not disappointed! The sun shone now and then on some of the many beautiful eagle carvings of the lookout and some blue sky appeared! But the wind was cold. Some wondered around the park to investigate the information boards, garden and rustic flat iron cut-out sculpture.

Then it was off to the township of Bannockburn via Russells Bridge Road. The tours’ next stop was at the corner of McPhillips Road and High Street, Bannockburn, to admire the artworks on and around the public toilet block. Much fellowship was enjoyed by all as they stood around and chatted.

At lunchtime, the group headed for the Bannockburn Railway Hotel where they all enjoyed delicious meals, much too big, and continued with animated chatter until it was time to drive home.

Despite the weather much fellowship was enjoyed. Thanks to all the drivers and organisers.

Amazing Probian

Orbost and District Citizen of the Year 2023

Helen Mundy

In this year’s Australia Day Celebration of Orbost and District, Victoria, longtime Probus member and community volunteer Helen Mundy was named Citizen of the Year.

Helen has been a valued member of the Orbost Probus Club for over 20 years and has rarely missed a meeting. She has served as Secretary and as a committee member so far for the Club.

As well as her involvement in Probus, her priority at the moment is managing the Church of England Trash and Treasure Opportunity Shop in Orbost, which keeps her exceptionally busy. This includes organising the volunteer roster, accepting, sorting, cleaning, displaying, and selling the articles donated to the shop.

Helen leads by example making sure the needs of all volunteers are taken care of and is always approachable.

Helen is also a member of the St. James Anglican Church and Parish Council, which includes many duties to attend during the year and particularly catering for events.

In previous years, Helen was a long-time member and active participant in the Orbost North Primary School holding the position of Treasurer for many of those years as well as helping with the catering for many of the

school functions.

As an active member of the Snowy Rovers Football Club Ladies Committee, she had the job of collecting all the Clubs jumpers after the game and washing, ironing, mending and distributing them before the next game. Many hours were spent making the football banners with the help of other

ladies on that Committee … and then remake more banners for the next game. Her volunteer work extends to helping where needed at the Orbost and District Agricultural Show – a huge event for a small country town and always in need of volunteers for Stewardship, crowd control and information.

Helen is the epitome of what civic service is about –serving her community with loyalty and true dedication. Well deserving of this Australia Day Award.

Amazing Probian Kenneth Stone

Jerrabomberra Combined Probus Club

Distinguished career of service pre and post-retirement earns Ken an OAM at The Australia Day Awards

Ken Stone has been President, following his Foundation President period, of Jerrabomberra Combined Probus Club another 4 terms and has filled other committee roles continuously over the Club’s history, including Newsletter Editor most of that period.

Ken was awarded an OAM at this year’s Australia Day Awards, for service to the community through a range of organisations.

Ken is a former RAAF Officer specialising in Environmental Health having served for some 29 years in the Permanent Air Force and then another in the RAAF Specialist Reserve as a consultant. Later, he was employed by NASA and as the Public Affairs Coordinator of the Australian National Space Program followed by employment in the NSW Public Service. He also co-authored “Wombats – 50 Years On,” which won the RAAF Heritage Award for Literature in 2008.

He spent about 20 years as a Rotarian in Canberra, Wagga and Jerrabomberra. He was awarded a Paul Harris Fellowship recognition as Convenor of the Rotary International Peace Conference in 2000 at Wagga. He was later decorated with Gold Companionship by the Australian Rotary Health Research fund after raising

some $50,000 through events he conducted in Canberra. He spent 3 years on the Ministerial Advisory Council for the Ageing of the ACT Government representing Probus while President and Committee person on the Probus ACT Association. He introduced the annual Friendship Luncheons activity. The first luncheon attracted 430 attendees and continues until today. In conjunction with the luncheons, he introduced a Travel Exhibition that was successfully conducted for a number of years. This travel initiative raised some funds for use by the Association for conduct of briefing days for newly appointed Probus Committees.

He has solely conducted a political campaign for 50,000 Veteran superannuants for the past five years as an advocate endeavouring to have a life-term impost on their Retirement Pay amounting to a loss of some $200 million annually after

passing their life expectancy point. This involves direct email communications with 1000+ addressees and an estimated 2500 veterans on social media. His recent Lower House of Federal Parliament petition gathered 6304 supporters.

He is also an event organiser for veterans and organised the 3-day, 70th Anniversary Celebrations for the No. 34 VIP Squadron with a Gala Dinner conducted in the Great Hall of Parliament House attended by 560 guests including the GovernorGeneral and Prime Minister representation and a message from the late Queen.

Ken’s Probus Club appointed Ken and his wife, Margaret, (pictured together) Life Members for their dedication and involvement with the Club.

Words Into Masterpieces

- Creative Writing by Probians

Rod Garrett - Probus Club of Northmead and District

Poetry is my way of bringing my feelings out into the open – making the invisible visible. As a young man, I loved to dance, letting the music of the night energise me. I had forgotten those moments until one night at the recent Newport Jazz Festival. The band and vocals were brilliant. I found myself dancing with one of the jazz singers, and my memory went back to the late ‘60s and early ‘70s - dancing all night at balls.

Young, uncoordinated but energetically enthusiastic. And here I was at Newport Jazz feeling much the same way, minus young and energetic. Tribal wrote itself as a result of those memories.

Tribal

the rhythm starts to pulse unconsciously your feet move to the beat emotions rhythmically inspired you glow ride the tempo bass guitar leads with rich tones your body follows unfettered flows freely music shadows your mood singers showering lyrical blossoms words of life and love your heart soars the drummer launches violent impact patterns pounding on bass snare tom and cymbals the rising tempo takes over you follow releasing your body’s wilder gyrations the dance floor a joyful mass beat bonded in fluid pulsation rhythm guitar overlays the drums ripping into a solo of melodic riffs dancers rejoice respond with movements of ancient tribes the band builds to a finale leaving you sweating exhausted wanting more

PROBUS IS ALL ABOUT FUN, FRIENDSHIP & FELLOWSHIP iN RETIREMENT

WHAT IS PROBUS

Probus provides retirees with the opportunity to connect socially, which is so important in today’s world.

Make new friends, learn a new skill, explore new interests and hobbies - there is so much to choose from when you become a member of your local Probus Club.

Membership is open to anyone who is retired or semi-retired, so why not join the tens of thousands of Probus members across Australia and New Zealand and find your local Probus Club today.

WHY JOIN PROBUS?

• Friendship with other retirees in your community

• Local monthly meetings

• Interesting guest speakers

• Wide range of activities with fellow members to suit your lifestyle; active or not-so-active

• Trips and Outings

• Exclusive discounts

• Active Retirees publications