April - May 2023 Issue Active Retirees Magazine

PROBUS MONTH 2023 THEME ANNOUNCED!

With the success of last year’s Probus Day activities, 2023 is slated to be even bigger & better!

Feature Story - P42

Explore the island at your own pace, with our brilliant 3-day self-drive packages. Take your own car, or hire one. Quote ‘PROBIAN10’ to receive 10% off* when booking!

Food & Wine Lovers

Stay at the Kangaroo Island Seafront Hotel in Penneshaw. Includes welcome bottle of local wine, dinner voucher, lunch at Dudley Wines cellar door and tasting flight at False Cape Wines.

American River Indulgence

Stay at the Mercure Kangaroo Island Lodge in American River. Includes wine tasting, dinner voucher, Oyster Farm tour, Cliffords Honey Farm honey ice cream and entry to Emu Ridge Eucalytpus Distillery.

Island Hideaway

Stay at the Aurora Ozone Hotel in Kingscote. Includes welcome bottle of local wine on arrival, picnic basket and dinner voucher.

Dudley Wines

Cliffords Honey

KI Spirits

FEATURES

Health

13 How group activities can revitalise your brain

Anything performed in a group can strengthen social bonds and improve cognitive function

18 Arm yourself against the flu season

Flu season has kicked in early this year in Australia and experts warn it’s bigger than ever

Finance

21 Give a little, get a lot

Donating your money as well as your time in retirement can be a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the joy of giving

27 6 things you can do to beat inflation

Inflation has certainly pushed prices up this year, particularly on the big three: housing, fuel and food

Travel

30 7 handy travel items for a smoother journey

Spending a fair chunk of time on the road? These products could make your next trip even more convenient and comfortable.

Technology

36 Remembering the postcard

The simple postcard may be edged out by emails and Instagram, but it has been a staple medium of personal communication for the traveller

39 Video Conferencing 101

Fortunately, videoconferencing sites like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have provided a lifeline for individuals who are unable to meet with colleagues, family and friends in person

Feature Story

42 Probus Month 2023 theme announced!

With the success of last year’s Probus Day activities, 2023 is slated to be even bigger and better!

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

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.

PROBUS PARTNERS

Autumn is possibly my favourite time of the year. Where I live, the change of season is noticeable. The weather gets a little chilly, signalling that it is time to break out long sleeves and scarves, and time to get out there and enjoy outings and activities with friends and family in the more temperate weather.

This is also the time of year that many of us have attended and participated in the Annual General Meeting of our Clubs. This yearly occasion provides an opportunity for members to nominate for positions on their Management Committee, a meaningful way to contribute to the ongoing success of their Club.

We are often hesitant to put ourselves forward, but I believe that everyone has a skill or talent that can add benefits to the functioning and enjoyment of club activities. I thoroughly enjoyed my times in a variety of roles as a member of my Club’s committee, and more importantly, strengthening relationships with other members by working together.

One of the primary objectives of Probus South Pacific is supporting all Clubs in membership retention and growth. To support this goal we will soon be embarking on a national advertising campaign - an invitation to “Discover Probus.”

We will be promoting studies that have shown retirees who stay socially active through group activities improve their overall well-being.

Our promotional material will remind potential members that too often we focus on our financial well-being in retirement, giving little thought to our social well-being. This is where Probus comes in, offering a broad range of opportunities for members to become and stay engaged through a wide range of activities, outings, trips and interest groups.

As I mentioned in our last edition, this campaign has been influenced by the formation of a working group: the Marketing Consultative Committee, made up of members willing to contribute their skills, expertise and advice in on-line (Zoom) meetings.

This group continues to work with our PSPL team to provide their input on our future promotional and marketing programs including the development of our new website.

Our 50th Anniversary Organising Committee has achieved so much in a short amount of time. This multi-talented group was formed

in New Zealand to advise and assist with the arrangements and organisation of Anniversary celebrations of Probus in the South Pacific, with the first club formed in Kapiti Coast in November 1974.

A reminder that nominations from Probus Club members to fill upcoming vacancies for the positions of Representative Member/Director in New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory, Western Australia and New Zealand. The term of office for successful candidates will be from August 2023 to August 2026.

Members, particularly those who also have business experience in finance, accounting, communications, marketing, or as a public company Director, are urged to consider nominating. Given the large proportion of female Probians, we hope to see women who meet the criteria nominate for these roles.

We ask any member who meets the criteria to consider this opportunity. Further information about the roles can be found on PSPL’s website or by contacting our Team.

Hopefully, like me, you are looking forward to spending time with your Probus friends and enjoying everything life has to offer.

Judith Maestracci AM Chairman | Probus South Pacific Ltd

the

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Life in Full Flow

Explore Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Ho Chi Minh City, and more unforgettable sites over 13 days, with a luxury seven-night cruise aboard the Mekong Serenity.

Discover the rich cultures, tantalising flavours and stunning countryside of Cambodia and Vietnam while cruising along the tranquil waters of the magical Mekong River on our brand-new state-of-the art ship Mekong Serenity. Your intimate cruise will depart from central Cambodia and arrive in southern Vietnam after eight days spent meandering past rural villages and the lush tropical surrounds of the majestic Mekong.

Unrivalled luxury river cruising

Be welcomed by the alluring scent of fresh tropical flowers and the tell-tale signs of a brand-new ship before discovering your decadent private balcony suite, featuring a luxury ensuite, separate lounge area and crisp dream-inducing bed linen. The interiors on board your floating hotel are impeccably designed, echoing the finest cultural aesthetics of Cambodia and Vietnam, as well as the region’s French colonial history.

Enjoy the Mekong’s tropical climate while reclining on the Lotus deck’s shaded

BY ALEXANDER SIMPSON

outdoor lounges, before taking a refreshing dip in the open-air swimming pool. The ship’s bespoke lounge, bar and restaurants all feature floor-to-ceiling windows, offering views of the surrounding countryside. All indoor spaces are kept pleasantly cool with airconditioning throughout the ship, while personalised five-star service ensures you’ll rarely need to lift a finger.

Authentic experiences in the heart of the Mekong

Your cruise will include daily stops at key sites, opening your eyes to the lives and cultures of Cambodian and Vietnamese communities for whom the Mekong River is home.

Be transfixed by a meditative Buddhist Blessing Ceremony at Oudong and an elegant performance of Khmer Apsara dance on board your ship. In Phnom Penh, the inviting aromas of incense and succulent streetside barbecues will waft through the air as you navigate the city on a charming tuktuk. You will be enriched by further experiences along your cruise to riverside markets and Cambodia’s famous river stilt villages. And the daily life of riverdwelling communities will be on display every day. Watch as locals fish from small boats and delightful children jump excitedly into the

Mekong’s cooling waters. A restful night’s sleep awaits each evening as your ship moors midstream in the calm, quiet seclusion of this enchanting waterway.

A feast for the senses on and off board

The tempting tastes and finest flavours of southeast Asian and French cuisine will be inescapable features of your holiday throughout Cambodia and Vietnam. You will be tantalised repeatedly by the alluring scents of lemongrass, coconut, mouthwatering meats, fresh herbs, aromatic pho, coriander, and tropical fruits as you navigate local markets, explore city streets and relish gourmet meals.

Indulge in flavoursome local dishes or Western cuisine at the Mekong Serenity’s Lemongrass Restaurant; or enjoy lighter al fresco fare on the pool deck. Your ship also features the intimate Indochine private dining room. On dry land, the diverse flavours of regional specialties and fusion cuisine will entice your tastebuds at every turn. Modern Khmer dishes and traditional French recipes are the staples of Cambodian dining, while optional gustatory experiences are well suited to the more adventurous palate - insect canapes can be surprisingly nourishing and buttery, while snake wine is not for the faint-hearted. Delicious Vietnamese cuisine takes centre stage in the latter half of your holiday, with a memorable dinner at Vietnam House, celebrity chef Luke Nguyen’s renowned restaurant, offering a world-class taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s fine dining scene.

Mekong Serenity image is an artist’s impression only and copyright of TTT Architects, All Rights Reserved.

Horizon pool bar and grill (artist’s impression)

The

Vietnam and Cambodia River Cruising

Vietnam & Cambodia Highlights

13 Days – Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap

• Relax on an all-inclusive, seven-night cruise aboard APT’s new luxury river ship, the Mekong Serenity.

• Five nights in hand-picked luxury accommodation.

• World-class dining – a total of 31 meals with a wide range of onboard beverages.

• Experience the sun rising above Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.

• Be welcomed into a traditional Buddhist Blessing Ceremony.

• EXCLUSIVE – At Vietnam House in Ho Chi Minh City, sit down to authentic cuisine with a dash of modern Australian flair.

DELUXE BALCONY SUITE

HARMONY LOUNGE

How group activities can revitalise your brain

If you’ve recently joined a Probus Club and gotten together with others for a simple game of Scrabble, a group jigsaw or another puzzle game, you may have just taken the first step in increasing your memory and reducing your risk of Alzheimers.

There are plenty of well documented health reasons for enjoying any sort of group activity, including these great benefits.

They can help keep your mind sharp and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimers

This is one of the most-discussed reasons for doing puzzles and playing table games like Scrabble. According to the Alzheimer’s Association , a daily dose of puzzles is a significant way to keep the brain active and sharp, especially as you grow older.

Group activities trigger bonding

Anything performed in a group can strengthen social bonds. It brings people together in stimulating their minds, and triggers increased brain activity improving things like memory and cognitive function. Socialising also helps improve your mental health, which can, in turn, improve your physical health.

Learning new words

This is a great way to increase your vocabulary. Through crosswords and Scrabble, you are learning new words constantly. If you don’t know the meaning of a new word, you can always check the dictionary and add it to your vocabulary.

They engage you deeply

When you’re solving crossword puzzles, you tend to dig deeper into the problem at hand. This can be a good distraction from niggly worries of your own and is a great way to relax!

They offer a fun way to overcome boredom

If you are lonely, depressed, anxious, or bored, just open your newspaper and solve a crossword puzzle. This will help you to relax, keep your mind engaged, and just have fun! Even better, get along to your local Probus Club and find a few others who want to challenge themselves (and you) with a boardgame or a puzzle. Your brain and health will thank you for it!

A lifetime of helping others

Sparked by the love of his life, Bruce is leaving a gift behind in his Will. Will you?

Bruce Smith and his late-wife, Mavis, have left gifts in their Wills for Australian Red Cross after volunteering more than 30 years together. Through an enduring legacy of love shared between Bruce and Mavis, Bruce hopes that their impact will be felt by people in the future long after they’re gone.

Bruce has dedicated more than 30 years volunteering for Australian Red Cross. But it was through his love for his wife, Mavis, that sparked his interest in Red Cross when she began as a volunteer in the 1960’s.

Over the decades and since his retirement, Bruce has supported Red Cross in a range of areas – from picking up refugees from the airport and helping them settle into their new homes to providing psychosocial support to survivors of the Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria in 2009.

While Mavis has since passed on, Bruce wants others to think about their contribution to helping others beyond this life.

Photo: Australian Red Cross/ Amelia Wong

“If you’ve been supporting a cause throughout your lifetime, then please don’t stop when you’re thinking about what’s going to happen after you leave.”

Bruce will be leaving a gift in his Will to Red Cross – just as Mavis did – and he hopes he can inspire others to do so too.

“I always think about ‘people helping people’ as being a motto

or a thought that l keep in mind, that you get more out of helping people than you can fully understand.”

This is the message that Bruce wants to pass on as his legacy: “It would certainly be a wish of mine that people would consider helping others in such a way that they continue to support the causes they care about after they’ve gone”.

Mavis Smith, a skilled artisan, is pictured front left.

Arm yourself against the flu season

Flu season has kicked in early this year in Australia and experts warn it’s bigger than ever. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can keep yourself and your loved ones protected.

The Australian Flu season runs from May – October every year, so it’s now upon us and we should prepare for it. In January and February of 2022, there were 79 flu cases recorded in Australia. Comparatively, in January and February this year, there are now 8,453 cases. This is an indicator of what we’re to expect this year and how cautious, alert and aware we must be of how we can arm ourselves against this nasty illness. The most effective way to do so is to get a flu vaccination or a “flu-shot” from your local medical centre after consultation with your GP or practitioner.

Why do I need a vaccine?

Influenza is a serious illness, especially for older adults aged 65+, immunocompromised people and pregnant women, and young children are highly susceptible. The most common perception about influenza is that it is a regular cold and it shall pass.

While the latter is true, the disease can range from mild to severe, and because it is a virus which mutates every year, every day,

there is no way to build permanent immunity to it naturally or by a vaccine. However, a seasonal flu vaccine can prevent infection from previous and already circulating strains.

When should I get it?

In Australia, the flu season typically runs from May to October, with the peak number of cases occurring in August. It’s important to get vaccinated before the flu season starts to ensure that your body has enough time to develop the

necessary immunity. By getting your flu shot in April or May, you can maximize the effectiveness of the vaccine and give your body the best possible chance of fighting off the flu if you come into contact with it during the season.

Additionally, getting vaccinated during this timeframe also helps to protect those around you. Even if you personally do not experience severe symptoms from the flu, you could still be a carrier and pass the virus on to others who may be more vulnerable. By getting vaccinated, you are helping to

reduce the overall spread of the flu and protect those who may be more at risk of serious complications from the virus.

What else can I do to protect myself and others?

Avoid close contact

To prevent the spread of flu, it is important to steer clear of close contact with others who may be sick. Plus, if you are feeling unwell, it’s best to keep your distance from those around you to minimize the risk of spreading any germs or viruses. This can help to protect your friends, colleagues and family.

Stay home when you are sick

If possible, stay home from any errands and extra activities when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.

Cover your nose and mouth

To help prevent catching or spreading the flu, be sure to cover both your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Using a tissue is particularly effective, as it helps prevent droplets from spreading to those around you. Also, wear a mask as often as you can when outdoors and socialising. Remember, flu is often spread when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or even talk.

Clean your hands

Keeping your hands clean is key to staying healthy and avoiding germs. To do this, make sure to wash your hands regularly with soap and water. You can also use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to clean your hands.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

Try to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth as much as possible. When we touch things that are contaminated with germs and then touch our face, those germs can enter our system and make us sick.

Practice good health habits

Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. This helps to keep your body, mind and immune system in top condition and avoid any illness.

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Give a little, get a lot

Lots of people think about volunteering their time to support a favourite cause, but they leave financial support until after they’ve passed away. However, donating your money as well as your time in retirement can be a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the joy of giving.

Often people donate money in an ad-hoc way when a cause appeals. But there is a lot of satisfaction to be gained from planning and prioritising your giving.

Krystian Seibert, industry fellow, Centre for Social Impact, Swinburne University of Technology, sheds some light on the state of giving in Australia. “Total giving to Australian charities in 2020 was $12.7 billion. Most of that is on the smaller end of the scale. The bulk comes from monthly donations people make to a favourite charity, or one-off donations in response to a Christmas or disaster appeal,” he says.

“About $1.5 billion is what’s called ‘structured philanthropy’. This is philanthropy at the larger end of the scale, which tends to be planned and strategic, and generally involves using some sort of dedicated legal structure to facilitate it, such as a philanthropic foundation.”

When you retire you may have a wealth of things on your to-do list, but if one of your aspirations is to personally help others there are ways to do it that don’t require you to be a billionaire.

Where there’s a will

Even though Australia is about to see the largest intergenerational wealth transfer in our history in the next two decades, with $2.4 trillion expected to pass from Baby Boomers to the next generation, Seibert says: “Giving through bequests made in wills is currently low.”

Many people say they plan to leave money to charities, but only about 12% of wills actually include charitable giving.

Of course, planned giving doesn’t always require setting up a legal structure. Philanthropy Australia suggests some of the things you should consider include how much you intend to give; the timeframe for your giving; and the level of engagement you want as a donor. There are situations where you may not need to set up a philanthropic structure, such as a public or private ancillary fund or a charitable foundation, according to

Philanthropy Australia. For instance, if you are giving a one-off amount; giving for a short period; or if you plan to give a relatively small amount – less than $10,000.

You may be able to give without setting up a separate structure if tax deductibility isn’t required or if it’s easier for you to give a taxdeductible donation directly to a charitable organisation you wish to support.

Remember, however, that it makes sense to talk things over with your financial planner, accountant or other professional adviser if you plan to give large sums of money.

For those who want to experience the joy of giving with other like-minded people, collective giving can be a terrific way to get started with relatively small amounts.

Giving circles, such as Impact100, typically involve 100 people donating $1,000 each year to make a collective grant of $100,000 to a charitable organisation. Members vote on which organisation to support from a shortlist of possibilities.

The Impact100 giving circles are structured through foundations such as the Sydney Community Foundation and the Australian Communities Foundation. Donations are tax-deductible and the funds are held by the foundation.

Collective giving can also take the form of the eventbased Funding Network, where individuals, businesses and foundations come together for a pitch-style event.

Overall, if giving back is something you’re interested in doing, there are plenty of options – and you don’t have to be rich to do so.

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Bank of Mum & Dad?

Are you the Are you the Bank of Mum & Dad

What can be done if your children are feeling the squeeze with higher interest rates?

What can be done if your children are feeling the squeeze of higher interest rates

by Rob Shears

It has been estimated that 60% of recent home loans had assistance from the Bank of Mum & Dad who are the 9th largest lender in the country.^ Some parents have gone guarantor on the loan and enabled their children to borrow up to 100% of the value of the property and get their foot into the seemingly ever increasing property market.

But what happens if house prices fall? In February, the RBA released data showing that the average Sydney house price fell 14% since the recent peak.^ On a the Dec 21 median house price of $1.55m, that is roughly a$222,000 fall. Asset prices generally only impact owners when they sell.

Median Sydney house prices lost $222,000 in the year ending Dec 2022.

As long as the home loan repayments keep being paid, the family will ride out the price fluctuations.

Whilst many fixed their rates before they rose, when they come off fixed rates, can

they afford the increase in the home repayments? Home loan interest rates have risen about 3.5% in the last year which equates to around $300 extra per month per $100,000. If their loan was $700,000, then their variable home loan repayments have increased by $2,100 per month. Do they have the spare cashflow to pay that?

In the last year, a $700,000 variable home loan has had repayments increase by approx $2,100 per month.

If the borrower defaults, the bank could go after the security offered by the guarantor: usually their home. If you are the guarantor, it could be your home.

So what can be done to prevent default?

Kids improve cashflow

They could increase their savings by reducing expenses. They could increase their income by a promotion or work longer hours. The sooner they build up savings the easier it will be. Even if they are still on fixed rates, extra savings will help to spread the load.

Talk to the lender

If their situation is already tight, they could talk to their lender. Banks would prefer to keep the loan so will work with willing borrowers to keep making repayments. If the bank is not helpful, talk to a financial counsellor. They have more power with the banks and can negotiate better terms.

Superannuaton release

If they are struggling to cover their home loan repayments, they could apply to their superannuation fund for an early release based on compassionate grounds to pay the home loan repayement. Find more information on our website or at the ATO.

Move in with the folks

If you have the capacity, they could move in with you or the inlaws and rent out their home. This will free up cashflow however there are taxation and lifestyle factors to be considered. Talk to your accoutant about the impact of Capital Gains Tax and Income tax on the benefits of this strategy.

You fund their shortfall

If the above options don’t solve the problem, you could assist with cash. Below are some considerations with doing this and options if you don’t have the cash lying around.

• Sibling rivalry & the estate: will this impact your estate? Will the siblings be compensated for the early inheritance? Estate planning is important to keep families together. Talk to your lawyer, or us, to update estate plans to reflect the change in circumstances.

• Impact on your retirement: taking money out of your retirement savings, especially now, could have significant long term impacts to your retirement lifestyle. It could take years to recover, if ever.

• Age Pension impact: when you give away more than $10,000 p.a. or above $30,000 over 5 years, the government considers that a ‘deprived’ asset and will include it in your asset and income test for 5 years. Becoming liable for your child’s home loan does not exempt you from this.

• Home Equity Access from Services Australia. If you have equity in your home, you may be eligible to draw down on it via the government’s revamped home equity loan scheme at 3.95% p.a. For more information, go to our website.

As space is limited here, we provide more detailed information on our website.

Learn more about the being the Bank of Mum & Dad here

Suite 2404, Tower 2, 101 Grafton Street

Bondi Junction NSW 2022

(02) 8013 5205

valorprivatewealth.com

General Advice Warning

Valor Private Wealth Pty Limited and Rob Shears are Authorised Representative of Valor Financial Group Pty Ltd (AFSL 405452). Valor Private Wealth makes no representations about the content and suitability of this information for any purpose. It may not be complete or accurate for your purposes. This advertorial contains information and general advice only. It does not take into account your personal circumstances. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although this advertorial contains information from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. We recommend you obtain personal financial advice before making any investment decision.

things you can do to beat inflation 6

With everyday necessities requiring more of our dollars, it pays to cast a critical eye over your spending, investing and income to ensure you stay ahead. Here are six things that can help you do exactly that.

1 Consider your investments

To hedge against the sharemarket dip, it’s important to harness the power of diversification. That means spreading your portfolio across a range of assets, including property, global and Australian shares, bonds, cash and commodities.

‘Safer’ assets include raw materials like oil and metals (especially gold), which generally increase along with inflation. Highquality bonds with a short duration are also considered lower-risk in a high-interest environment.

2 Pay down your debts

For now, interest rates on debt are only going up, but the same hasn’t been true for interest rates on savings. So you should make paying off your debts your highest priority.

Always keep at least three months of living expenses readily accessible in your ‘emergency fund’, but otherwise use savings to get rid of your debts. Once they’re gone, the money you were using to repay your loan can go towards building your savings back up.

3

Inflation has certainly pushed prices up this year, particularly on the big three: housing, fuel and food. The good news is that inflation will eventually normalise as a matter of course. The bad news is, we’ve all got to live through it until it does.

Reduce your spending on non-essentials

This one is trickier than it seems, mainly because deciding between a ‘want’ and a ‘need’ can be problematic. Some things are obvious, like food and shelter. Other things are a little more ‘grey area’.

For instance, insurance will be an essential for some, a ‘nice to have’ for others. Same for salon hair colour (speaking of grey areas!), a weekly round of golf or a couple of beers at the club on a Friday night. After all, feeling good about yourself, getting exercise and being social are all essentials for a long and happy life!

So, only you can decide what’s in your ‘non-essential’ pile… but do try to be ruthless.

4 Shop wisely for things you do need

Once you’ve got your list of essentials, it’s time to go shopping. Here are a few ways you can save money on everything you need.

Shop around – compare prices at a few different locations.

Stop impulse spending – remember your ‘essentials’ should be exactly that.

Eat out less – cooking at home is usually far cheaper than eating out.

Buy second hand –clothes, furniture and toys can all be found for much less.

Switch off - Cut your utility bills by installing energy efficient bulbs, taking shorter showers, unplugging the second fridge, hanging clothes in the sun to dry, and turning the heating down.

5 Compare and negotiate your services

Phone all of your suppliers to negotiate a better deal. That includes your bank, insurance, internet and mobile phone providers.

As a starting point, use a comparison website to see what competitors are offering new customers. Try Canstar, Finder or iSelect If your current provider won’t match the better offer, be prepared to move your business to save money.

6 Find a new source of income

You could start a side hustle to earn extra cash to meet rising costs. There are plenty online options, so you don’t even need to leave the house. Some ideas to get you started:

• Freelance writing via a marketplace like Fiverr or Upwork.

• Selling your sewing, craft or artworks through somewhere like Etsy or Madeit.

• Tutoring students through an online tutoring company like Cluey Learning or A Team Tuition.

• Selling your photography to stock companies like Adobe Stock or Shutterstock.

Of course, if you’re collecting a pension, make sure you check with your financial adviser to ensure the extra income you earn will be worth your while.

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

handy travel items for a smoother journey 7

From safety to comfort, there are all sorts of great products designed to make your life easier when travelling. Here are seven handy travel items for a smoother journey.

1 LUGGAGE TAGS

Ever struggled to find your luggage in a sea of suitcases at the airport or hotel lobby? A unique, personalised luggage tag can help you quickly distinguish your bag amongst many others. What’s more, you can fill out these tags with your details to ensure luggage is returned to you in the event it’s temporarily lost.

2 PORTABLE POWER BANK

Ever struggled to find your luggage in a sea of suitcases at the airport or hotel lobby? A unique, personalised luggage tag can help you quickly distinguish your bag amongst many others. What’s more, you can fill out these tags with your details to ensure luggage is returned to you in the

3 SHOE BAGS

You need more than one pair of shoes for domestic and international holidays – especially if you’re going to be travelling through different climates and conditions. A pack of cloth shoe bags will prevent your shoes from marking your clean clothes.

4 COMPRESSION SOCKS

If your legs are prone to aches and pains when stuck in a seat on long trips, a pair of compression socks could give your comfort level a much-needed legup! These tight-fitting socks are designed to help reduce discomfort caused by being sedentary, as well as help mitigate the risk of developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis) when flying.

Spending a fair chunk of time on the road? These products could make your next trip even more convenient and comfortable.

5 VACUUM STORAGE BAGS

Speaking of compression, you can do the same to your clothes using sealable compression bags that reduce their volume to roughly half the size. All you have to do is fill the storage bags and close them with the special compression zipper, and squeeze or vacuum out the extra air, creating plenty of extra space for all your other travel items.

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Travel

6 NECK PILLOW

If you don’t own this classic, it’s time you did! Avoid the stiffness that often comes with extended journeys by using an ergonomic neck pillow made with memory foam or beads. These products support your neck and head while sitting, letting you rest throughout long trips.

7

PORTABLE SAFE

Leave your valuables at your accommodation securely, while you go exploring. Simply load up your purse or wallet, credit cards, phone, ID, jewellery and any other important possessions into your portable travel safe, then lock it and attach it to a stationary object using a cutproof wire before heading out.

our humanitarian spirit will be felt, long after you’re gone.

Your warm and kind spirit can change lives through your Will Y

We all want to leave behind a legacy of positivity. Leaving a gift in your Will to Australian Red Cross can help transform lives for the better.

People like Val and Allie met through Red Cross and formed a beautiful friendship. In a world where people feel lonelier than ever before, it’s generous supporters that help us ensure people don’t feel alone. For Val, it’s people like Allie that help make her feel loved and cared for.

Everybody deserves the warmth of kindness and friendship, and your Will can help us share that with people for generations to come.

Sparked by the love of his life, Bruce is leaving a gift behind in his Will. Will you?

[Bruce Smith and his late-wife, Mavis, have left gifts in their Wills for Australian Red Cross after volunteering more than 30 years together. Through an enduring legacy of love shared between Bruce and Mavis, Bruce hopes that their impact will be felt by people in the future long after they’re gone.]

Bruce has dedicated more than 30 years volunteering for Australian Red Cross. But it was through his love for his wife, Mavis, that sparked his interest in Red Cross when she began as a volunteer in the 1960’s.

Over the decades and since his retirement, Bruce has supported Red Cross in a range of areas – from picking up refugees from the airport and helping them settle into their new homes to providing psychosocial support to survivors of the Black Saturday bushfires in Victoria in 2009.

While Mavis has since passed on, Bruce wants others to think about their contribution to helping others beyond this life.

“If you’ve been supporting a cause throughout your lifetime, then please don’t stop

A lifetime of helping others

when you’re thinking about what’s going to happen after you leave.”

Bruce will be leaving a gift in his Will to Red Cross – just as Mavis did – and he hopes he can inspire others to do so too.

“I always think about ‘people helping people’ as being a motto or a thought that l keep in mind, that you get more out of helping people than you can fully understand.”

This is the message that Bruce wants to pass on as

his legacy: “It would certainly be a wish of mine that people would consider helping others in such a way that they continue to support the causes they care about after they’ve gone”.

If you’ve already left a gift in your Will or are considering leaving one, please let us know so we can thank you and plan for the future.

Who are we?

The Australian Carers Guide is this country’s first and only publication specifically created for our informal primary carers, particularly those caring for an ageing parent, spouse or an elderly loved one.

The Australian Carers Guide is packed full of practical and helpful information to support carers along their journey. We also deliver content geared towards improving the physical, emotional, mental, spiritual and financial wellbeing of carers which includes available resources and lists of all the services providers who offer practical hands-on assistance.

We have the best and most experienced contributors writing for our publication. They are all experts in their respective fields and provide unique insights, helpful perspectives and creative solutions to the most common challenges carers face.

Our friends and partners at Carers Australia who advocate for Carers Gateway, as well as OPAN and the department of health all contribute to sharing their latest advocacy activities and how the new reforms are continuing to reshape the Aged Care sector.

On the lighter side, we have created a special section called Time Out, for carers to have some me-time. This section is full of fun things to do and will surely take your mind off the cares of the day. This includes puzzles, brain games, sudoku, word searches, crosswords, and much more. There is also a popular Eat well-Live wellAge well recipe section with quick and healthy meals to prepare and enjoy.

The Australian Carers Guide produces a separate guide for all 5 states and publishes new editions 4 times per year.

In this edition

ITA BUTTROSE

shares some insightful information on her personal journey as a carer (she also shared her thoughts on the Aged Care sector and what steps should be taken to improve the lives of this sector and all ageing Australians).

ALARMS

Everything you need to know about if the elderly person in your life is at the stage where a personal alarm has become a necessity.

PET THERAPY

Research proves it: pet therapy offers comfort, joy and companionship to older people.

If you're caring for elderly parents or a loved one, it's inevitable that you'll have to deal with the behemoth that is Centrelink. A guide to making the process as seamless as possible.

MAGGIE BEER

is on a mission to improve the food experience and quality of life for older Australians. This issue, enjoy two of her classic recipes.

JEAN KITTSON

The comedian and author - and daughter of parents in their 90soffers advice on how to take care of yourself in midst of the mayhem.

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Remembering the Postcard

Worldwide, postcard collectors are outnumbered only by stamp collectors, making it an enormously popular hobby.

But today, in this age of social media and instant gratification, will the quaint, stamped and illustrated note be superseded by the very “deletable” email or Instagram post, with its horrific vernacular and lazy vulgarity?

Some, including this writer, would argue that the email only serves to remind us that the act of sending a postcard requires a concerted personal effort, reflecting the consideration the sender holds for the recipient. An email will never replace that unique tactile connection only a postcard can deliver.

Since the birth of the modern postcard in the mid-19th century, literally billions of these quaint paper communiqués have been sent around the world. Not only have they documented travels and adventures, but they were also used extensively by the armed forces to send notes of reassurance and encouragement to loved ones back home.

Quite apart from the personal – and often touching –messages, an extensive postcard collection is something of a microcosm of world history and culture. The study of postcards even has a name: deltiology.

The Story of the Postcard

Historically, printed message cards began appearing in the early 1860s when John P. Charlton of Philadelphia initiated a patent. The Germans were also in on this trend and the “Poor Man’s Telegram” was born.

The illustrated souvenir card received its most significant boost in 1889, when Eiffel Tower cards were mailed in their thousands by awestruck visitors to the Paris Exposition that same year. As a consequence, World’s Fair

The simple postcard may be edged out by emails and Instagram, but it has been a staple medium of personal communication for the traveller.

postcards from the era are now among the items most highly prized by collectors.

Deltiologists refer to the 1890s as the “Pioneer Era” of postcards, when shapes, forms and sizes were beginning to take shape.

After the turn of the century, the term “Post Card” was officially coined and many families displayed postcard albums alongside the family album at home in this so-called “Golden Age”.

Public taste, economic constraints, government regulation and technological

limitations all guided the evolution of the postcard through the first half of the 20th century.

The “divided back”, “white border” and “linen” eras came and went, leaving us with its most enduring form: the shiny “photochrome”.

Ironically, with the advent of the internet, postcard collectors are now able to seek each other out and swap, trade and exchange to their heart’s content. Collectors and traders are

now using this competing medium to further the ancient art of paper communication.

Clearly, the internet has had a pronounced effect on traditional “snail mail” much like colour TV and home video initially had a pronounced effect on the cinema.

Meanwhile, other paper-based products like newspapers and magazines are under pressure too, as impatient and infohungry professionals gobble their news via the computer pipe.

So what about the postcard? Will it be relegated to museums, libraries and art galleries as a 20th century curiosity? Or will it rebound as people rediscover the simple pleasure of hand-crafted communication via the letterbox? Only time will tell...

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Video Conferencing 101

Fortunately, videoconferencing sites like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have provided a lifeline for individuals who are unable to meet with colleagues, family and friends in person. Despite initial scepticism, many people have eagerly embraced the technology, and it has become an essential part of their daily routine.

Not only does videoconferencing allow people to see and talk to their loved ones, but it also provides a sense of connection and socialisation with their communities without any regards to distance, transportation or accessibility. While there are certainly challenges and limitations to using videoconferencing for communication, it has proven to be a valuable tool for seniors. Today we will simplify using services like Zoom and Microsoft Teams for joining, attending and interacting in webinars.

A Zoom or Teams meeting or webinar can be attended using a laptop, phone or an iPad. In order to attend, you must download the app onto your device, for a computer you can download Zoom here , and Teams here . For handheld devices, you can use the Google Play Store or the App Store to download the phone-specific app. If prompted you can proceed to logging in or creating an account using your email address. Once you are logged in, you are ready to join your webinar.

Many times, the invitee will send you a direct link which you can click to join the webinar/ meeting automatically. This can be found in an email sent to you by the invitee, or a registration confirmation email which maybe in your inbox.

A Zoom or Teams meeting can also be joined through your computer or laptop only without downloading an app. When clicking on the link provided by the invitee, you will have the

option to join the meeting through your web browser.

If you have downloaded Zoom, there is also a manual way of joining webinars/ meetings, which is through the Meeting ID/Webinar ID. You will find this ID in your registration email at the end of the phone dial in information, or at the end of the joining link provided which looks something like this https://zoom.us/w/. The ID will be a 10 digit number combination which will be arranged in this structure: 546-239-1293. Simply enter this number into the field after clicking

“Join” and it will put you in the lobby waiting for the host to start the meeting, or place you directly into the meeting if it’s already live. Alternatively, a Microsoft Teams meeting always comes with a link included in the event invitation, which you must click for it to directly join you into the meeting.

Now that you are in the meeting, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can interact and contribute to the meeting if required. There is a mute/unmute button which looks like a microphone, on the bottom

of your screen. If the host has given participants permission to do so, one may unmute themselves and speak into the device to project their voice to all meeting attendees. Alternatively, you can also hit the same button again to mute your voice and any background noise if you are just attending and listening.

There is also a text chat function on the same dashboard at the bottom of your screen, which looks like a speech bubble. You can click this to view any text messages or updates that the host and any other participants have sent in the chatroom. You can also choose to write a message or question of your own in the entry field before hitting enter to send the message to everyone in the meeting.

Some meeting rooms also feature a Raise Hand function on the same dashboard, which allows you to gain the host’s attention in response to a question, if you wish to ask something or prior to contributing to a group discussion.

Once your meeting is complete, you can hit the Leave Meeting button, which closes your meeting immediately. Some other handy tips are, double tapping the mouse anywhere on the screen to make it full-screen, and, hitting the icon with three dots stacked on top of each other, which opens up a bigger menu, allowing you to change your viewing settings between gallery mode and full screen mode, plus a dozen more settings you can play around with.

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• Opportunity to visit the Hot Artesian Pools at Lightning Ridge and Moree

• Grawin, Glengarry and the Sheep-yard

• War Memorial and Museum

• Guided Town Tours – Moree & Glen Innes

• Chamber of the Black Hand

• Bevan’s Cactus Nursery

• Guided tour of Standing Stones at Glen Innes

• New England Woodturners and Sculptures

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Probus Month 2023 theme announced!

This year, October 1 will kick-off Probus Month, with activities and celebrations running for the 31 days of October. The theme for this year’s Probus Month will be:

Good Friends, Great Times, New Adventures!

When asked what they’ve gained from their Probus journeys, members always report that the friendships they’ve made have had the biggest positive impact on their lives. Making enduring friendships with likeminded people in their local community has enriched their retirement.

As well as the friendships they’ve made, Club members say that their Probus Clubs meet and have FUN together! Regardless of the activity in which they’re partaking – spending time with their Probus friends brings joy to their days!

Thirdly, Probus members embark on new adventures together! Many retirees feel that when they retire from or cut back on work, it’s like closing a massive chapter in their lives. Sometimes, starting the next chapter can be difficult. Probus members tell us that joining a Probus Club, becoming involved in the running of their Club, and

With the success of last year’s Probus Day activities, 2023 is slated to be even bigger and better!

engaging in the vast spectrum of activities has been a more exciting and rewarding chapter than they were bargaining for! Whether it’s taking trips, hearing from fascinating guest speakers, learning new skills, or simply having a coffee and a catch-up – Probus members find that figuring out what their next chapter looks like is much easier (and more fun!) with likeminded friends around.

These are the things about Probus that we have chosen to celebrate this year!

October 1 is the International Day for Older Persons, which aims at recognising the contribution older people make to our communities. At Probus, as we are well aware of the capabilities of amazing retirees, we use October to recognise the benefits Probus Clubs can bring to the lives of people who are retired or semi-retired.

Last year, Clubs held celebrations and events throughout the month of October to observe the role Probus has had in their lives, and to showcase what makes their Club special. Clubs promoted their unique activities and interest groups to the wider communities and invited special guests to celebrate with them.

This Probus Month we want to go even bigger! Let’s spread the Probus word far and wide and let everyone know the importance of social connections in everyone’s lives. We encourage your Probus Club to start planning early, invite local politicians to your Probus Month event, get your event promoted in local newspapers or even in your council community calendars. There are a number of grant opportunities to provide funding towards your event so don’t miss out on applying for these.

In October 2022, over 70 landmarks all over Australia and New Zealand were lit up in Probus blue and bright yellow to celebrate Probus. This year we anticipate the Probus colours will be shared even further. Don’t forget to gather your Probus friends and go out to witness any landmark lightings in your area and take lots of pictures to commemorate!

Last year, the Town Hall in Launceston (TAS) was illuminated in blue and yellow, as was the Palmerston Water Tower (NT), the Sky Tower in Auckland (NZ) and Old Parliament House (ACT). The Brisbane City Hall (QLD) was also lit up in Probus colours with the Mount Street Bridge (WA), Melbourne Town Hall (VIC) and Commbank Stadium (NSW) joining in. Adelaide Oval (SA) was a beacon in blue and yellow and drew the attention of many onlookers, starting a conversation about Probus Day.

Probus Day started in 2020 – when the world was gripped by the Covid pandemic and the need for social connection became clearer than it had ever been. Studies show that socialisation is integral to good mental AND physical health. Individuals who participate regularly in group events – like Probus Club activities – live happier and healthier lives.

When people retire, they take from their industries and communities the expertise and experience they have spent their whole working lives developing. In Probus Clubs, retirees and semi-retirees have an avenue to continue using these skills and contributing to the lives of their fellow Club members. For the betterment of themselves and their communities, retirees should consider joining their local Probus Club and putting their expertise to good use.

This Probus Month , take the opportunity to showcase Probus to retirees and semi-retirees in your community. Everyone will benefit: your Club will gain new members with different experiences and skills and new Probus members will discover Good Friends, Great Times and New Adventures in retirement.

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!

Spicy Valentine’s Night

The North Haven Club thought Valentine’s Day needed some spicing up, so they went to an aptly named local Indian Restaurant “Spice and Ice” for dinner on Tuesday, 14 February.

A large table of Probus members enjoyed the night out: the food was delicious and their Outings Coordinator regaled the group with some interesting ‘Valentine’s Day’ facts. For example, did you know the box that contains St Valentine’s remains, which is opened each year on 14th February, is kept in Dublin, Ireland? Another factoid is that as well as being regarded as the patron Saint of Love, St Valentine is also the patron Saint of Beekeepers!

Visit to the Monato Zoo

Member Richard won a door prize at the Payneham Probus monthly meeting in December (thanks to Kate – who organised the donation,) which was an entry pass to the Monato Zoo. Four great-grandchildren from Darwin, who were down for the school holidays, made good use of the raffle prize and had a great time.

Interest groups combine over a cuppa

The Probus Club of Unley boasts 11 active Interest Groups, including Brain Buzz, Theatre Group, Movie Group, Men’s BBQ Group and Ladies’ Coffee and Chat, just to name a few. This year, for the first time, the Men’s BBQ and the Ladies’ C&C groups trialled a joint get-together at Living Choice, Fullarton. It was a roaring success, with 36 eager members arriving early, ready for a catch-up chat with friends - new and old - and some potential members. The spacious room was filled with the grinding noise of the coffee machine being worked at full capacity and the animated, excited buzz of the members sharing their stories. This event will surely become an annual one.

Just in the nick of time: a visit to the South Australia Police Museum

On a hot February morning, a group of travellers from Collinsworth Probus Club enjoyed an interesting and insightful tour of the South Australian Police Museum. The Museum is currently located in the Thebarton Police Barracks, where, until recently, several buildings had historical listing, but will now be demolished to make way for the new Women’s & Children’s Hospital. So, this was an experience never to be repeated in its historical context.

The Museum comprises several galleries showcasing S.A. policing history from its 1838 origin (being the third oldest organised police force in the world after Britain and Ireland) to the present: from rudimentary constabulary to sophisticated forensic detection. The Bruce Furler Gallery displays horse-drawn carriages (including the Black Maria prison van) through to hi-tech motorbikes and cars. Exhibits showcase mounted policing (including on camels), with the beloved police greys still actively used and stabled on premises.

The volunteer guides - all retired police officers - were uniformly big, burly, affable & informative - and kept the rowdy Probians in line! (Try to pick their guide in the group shot.)

You’re gonna need a bigger boat

Six members of the Probus Club of Unley braved a 40 degree day to learn about Rodney Fox and visit the Shark Museum & Learning Centre, operating within an old church in Mile End. Rodney Fox recovered from a massive shark attack and went on to assist Steven Spielberg to make the Jaws movies.

Rodney shared that the famous music (that everyone knows and still makes hairs stand on end almost 50 years after the release of the film!) was originally recorded on a cello but has been recreated on many different instruments since.

Rodney explained that sharks can have over 20,000 teeth in their lifetime and face a lot of predators, including human, before they can reach adulthood and old enough to give birth to their own pups.

Thanks to Rodney Fox, research has come a long way in changing our outlook on sharks and helping to preserve them for the future, as they too, play an important part of the eco system. It IS safe to go back into the water.

The Collinsworth Probus Club have been advised by the SA Police Historical Society that the Museum will be relocatedhere’s hoping!

New Members’ Speedy Induction

The first meeting of the year for the Probus Club of Charles Darwin saw the induction of two new members, and a travel discourse of travelling overseas for a month (visiting a large number of countries) with only 9kg of luggage. The Club’s own Fiona was the resident lightweight traveller. The quote heard from one member was that “her make-up pack alone was more than 9Kg!”

Club President Sue welcomes Dianne and Sherry, and hopes they enjoy the Club as much as the Club enjoys having them as members. A special thanks to Sherry, who got her profile in within a few days of being inducted. The fastest yet!

Leadership Cluster Meeting in South Tasmania

Leadership members from six of the eight Hobart and Southern Tasmania Probus Clubs joined together for a Cluster Meeting in February. It was the third of its kind, with clusters in the Eastern Shore and Northern parts of the state already having had their turns.

Kingston Combined Club hosted the meeting, which focused on “Looking Forward,” with the attendees analysing past challenges, reflecting on past wins and channelling these successful ideas into future plans.

The afternoon was kept short and snappy; beginning with an introduction and a brief pep talk. The group then broke for afternoon tea and were able to get to know each other a little, before separating into their focus groups – where like Management Committee roles eg. Presidents, Trips Coordinators, Treasurers etc – sat with each other to share their role-specific wisdom, but only for about 45 minutes. The groups each took notes, which were circulated back to the Clubs (and the 2 Clubs that couldn’t attend.)

The groups combined for a short wrap-up and then went their merry ways. The whole afternoon run time was just over 2 hours including afternoon tea and immediate feedback has been that it was very helpful.

Club News TAS /

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

President’s Club Trophy Recipients Recognised

In 2020, the Bateau Bay Combined Probus Club President Bev introduced the President’s Award, with a large perpetual Trophy and a mini trophy to be presented to the recipient. The trophies are inscribed with: For Commitment and Dedication –Above and Beyond – to the Bateau Bay Combined Probus Club 2022-23.

The first recipient was Tour Leader Bruce, for his tremendous efforts during Covid to maintain contact with Club members - organising picnic luncheons and evening BBQs when not in the numerous lockdowns, managing to have 2 away trips: one at the Carrington in Katoomba and a 4-day stay in Canberra, where attendees were honoured to make a wreath presentation at The Last Post at the Australian War Memorial.

Bruce (currently Acting President) bestowed the President’s Award to 2 members:

1. Neville Withers - for ongoing service to the Club as Librarian, who has been bringing a variety of books to each meeting for many years and was initially on the hospitality team; and

2. Mike Wood - in Bruce’s absence (due to medical reasons) Mike stepped up as the Events Organiser as well as the Publicity Officer.

40 Years of Fun and Friendship

At the end of 2022, a wonderfully successful luncheon was held to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Kingscliff Probus Club.

The event had something to please everyone in attendance. For members and their guests who were looking for fun and friendship in retirement, there was plenty of time to chat and renew old acquaintances. For those with an appetite for fine food, the caterers at the Kingscliff Beach Bowls Club served up a traditional roast followed by hot pudding and custard. For those seeking to sing along and reminisce about the music of their youth, there was excellent entertainment provided by the Australian Seekers Tribute Group.

There was even a “40” Birthday Cake to savour with the tea and coffee. Life member Aub accepted the “40th Anniversary Certificate” on behalf of the Club.

First Trip Away a Capital Success Subsiding flood didn’t dampen Yarrawonga Trip

Kellyville Combined Probus Club members thoroughly enjoyed their 1st trip away - a 4-day trip to nation’s capital in late 2022. It was a good bonding experience and the perfect inaugural trip. The travellers saw the Floriade on display, The National Arboretum, The War Memorial, Parliament House and Tulip Top Gardens. Each tour was well planned, the accommodation was comfortable and the food was delicious. All who attended wish to thank organisers for making the trip a success.

The Tilligerry Peninsula Combined Probus Club had to make some last-minute changes to their annual trip at the end of 2022. This time, they were headed to Yarrawonga, which was still recovering from the flooding of November.

There was still plenty to see and do and the weather was mostly glorious during the trip. One of the highlights was the incredible silo art.

Braving the rapids

Earlier this year, intrepid members of the Probus Club of Warrawee set out for Penrith, Western Sydney, for a day of white-water rafting on the Sydney Olympic course. The Probians filled two rafts with men and ladies, determined for victory over the course.

Lunch followed at a nearby club where many tales were shared. All agreed it was a great day out.

The Probus Club of Gregory Hills made a trip down to the gorgeous South Coast, taking in the sights and tastes of the Treat Factory in Berry, The Gerroa Fisherman’s Club and Crooked River Winery in Gerroa.

As so many of us have experienced, it’s always hard to head home away from the beautiful coastal suburbs, but even more so when the bus carrying you all BREAKS DOWN.

Not to be defeated, our brave Probians – still with smiles on all their faces – sought some shade off a nearby crossroad and waited patiently for their rescue coach to arrive and take them home in airconditioned comfort.

A trip so good, they broke down when it was time to go home

Fun, Friendship and Full Bellies at Australia Day Celebrations

The Noosa 2010 Combined Probus Club celebrated the Australia Day holiday with a luncheon at a local retirement estate.

There was a prize for the most suitably attired person as well as an Australian slang quiz and a Travel Quiz which made all the members realise they have a lot more travelling to do.

It was to be an BYO lunch but they could have fed the whole of Noosa. The Club provided the desserts, and I don’t think anyone went home hungry. With a lot of members from overseas, not everyone was familiar with the array of pies, lamingtons and pavlova – but they all enjoyed them!

It was a lovely get together on a hot summer’s day, sitting beside the pool with cool breezes blowing - typical Australia.

Cheers to moving with the times!

The Probus Club of Indooroopilly West had a four-day bus trip to Kingaroy and surrounds. The countryside was lush and green after all the rain. The area has red volcanic soil and was originally used for dairy farming and peanut growing. Times have changed and the area is now diversified with cattle grazing, sustainable timber, and vineyards - which the Club enjoyed visiting for lunch and a sip.

This theme of adaptation and diversification was echoed at nearby Bethany, where the hard times faced by farmers have forced them to either move with the times and try something new or sell. Mulanah Gardens was previously a peanut farm, but due to changes in the market, they have renewed their property and it is now a Wedding Centre with home-stay cottages.

The travellers also visited the local dam and the glorious Bunya Mountains. The walks highlighted the magnificent old-growth forest and enormous pines along with native animals and numerous birds. At that height the air was cool and clear.

They all enjoyed their travels – and many home-made cakes and scones at every venue - and realized just how spectacular this country is. The trip was enhanced by their very knowledgeable driver and guide.

Happy 30th to Helensvale!!

On 24th February 2023, a luncheon was held to celebrate the 30th Birthday of Helensvale Probus Club.

It was a great day with more than fifty members enjoying plenty of fun and friendship. Among those attending was founding member, 103-year-old Florence, who had the honour of cutting the birthday cake.

Club News WA /

Sing us a song, you’re the piano woman!

The Probus Club of South Bunbury celebrated fun, friendship and fellowship at the Lord Forrest Hotel, accompanied by Elva on the piano. (Everyone was too captivated by Elva’s playing to snap a photo – Elva and Carol are shown below with duelling Christmas Crackers.)

Ladies who Lunch

The Newsletter Editor of The Ladies Probus Club of Sunbury organised a “Getting to Know You” Afternoon Tea for some of the new members of the Club.

The attendees shared stories and got better acquainted over some delicious treats and many laughs.

Host, Fabulous Fran, reports the ladies who attended were (left to right in the group photo): Merry Mary-Anne, Delightful Diane, Lovely Linda, Intriguing Isobel, Luscious Lori, Jolly Janice and Graceful Glenys. (Sexy Shaz also joined them but missed being in this pic.)

The ladies also welcomed Jubilant Joan and her beautiful grandson Lovable Levi.

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

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

Lunch at St Clement’s Retreat

The Probus Club of Tuggeranong embarked on a coach trip to tour the magnificent St Clement’s Retreat and Conference Centre at Galong.

In the impressive chapel (one of three chapels in this large complex of buildings,) Father Dom spoke of the history of St Clement’s. It became a home for the Redemptorists in 1917, when “Galong House” and its surrounding 800 acres, the home of ‘ticket of leave’ convict Ned Ryan, was left to them by his son, John Nagle Ryan M.L.A. It then became a college for the religious training and secondary schooling for those contemplating Redemptorist life.

This college closed in 1975 and a retreat house was established. It is now used for conferences, retreats, accommodation and as the Club members examined, dining.

It was a very special day for all attendees. They commented, “there is nothing like a lunch in a venue such as this, served by friendly staff and enjoyed by all.”

Probus Member Awarded Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM)

Foundation Member of Wanniassa Probus Club, Phil Greenwood, was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to the not-for-profit sector, and as a volunteer. The Governor-General announced the award on 26 January 2023.

After 23 years of RAAF service, retiring as a Wing Commander, Phil worked in the not-for profit sector for over 20 years. Whilst he was CEO of the John James Foundation, they built the John James Village in Garran ACT to provide accommodation units for patients undergoing Leukaemia treatment and their families. The facility also includes office and meeting space for the Leukaemia Foundation.

As an active Justice of the Peace since 2012, he has performed a wide range of activities, including volunteering with ACT Policing.

Phil can add this honour to an already extensive list, including being awarded the Australian Service Medal with Clasp SE Asia, the Defence Force Service Medal with First Clasp, and the Australian Defence Medal.

For full story, click here .

Walking the Hallowed Grounds of the MCG

Just looking at the perfect green surface of the MCG stirs all sorts of emotions. There have been momentous times here: magnificent wins; marvellous sporting achievements; flocks of admirers for the Queen’s visit; the recordbreaking crowd of 130,000 to see Billy Graham in the 1950s; rock concerts; marathons; Olympic Games and so many other memorable events.

Wantirna Heights Probus Club had such a great time exploring all parts of the building and grounds, the change rooms, scoring room, media room, corporate boxes, seats the rich and famous have occupied, restaurants and bars. All this has grown from a gathering of five men who met to form the Melbourne Cricket Club on November 15, 1838.

The museum has all sorts of memorabilia from running shoes worn by some of the champions at the Olympic Games to a hologram of Shane Warne talking about when he became a cricketer for Australia, which is spine tingling!

Instrumental figures gather to celebrate Club’s 10th Anniversary

Mernda Combined Probus Club celebrated its tenth birthday with an extensive luncheon. In attendance were more than 70 members including all 19 current Foundation members and 8 retired Foundation members. The food was plentiful, the drinks cold and the conversations animated.

The formal birthday celebrations commenced with the cutting of the cake by Geoff and Jenny – inaugural President and Secretary, respectively. Current President Bill introduced the speakers: Geoff - who spoke about the highlights of the past ten years which included a Pacific Cruise - and Kerry - President of Diamond Creek Rotary, spoke about the decision of Diamond Creek Rotary to form the Probus Club in Doreen which was so over prescribed that they decided to form Mernda Probus as well.

The final speaker was the Vice Chair of Probus South Pacific, Michael, who congratulated the Club on its milestone before presenting their 10th Birthday Certificate. A truly fabulous and memorable day.

Patriotic Probians

Whilst away in Norfolk Island, the Narre Warren Probus Club spent Australia Day at Norfolk Island Government House (and enjoyed a sausage sizzle or two.) Also on their trip, they walked amongst the giant fig trees, explored the gorgeous waters in a glass-bottomed boat and some even braved a swim in the bay.

30 years of Friendship, Fellowship and Fun

In November 1992, the Probus Club of Bundoora had full membership and an extensive waiting list. John, the President of the Rotary Club of Bundoora, and committee decided to establish a new Probus Club for the local community.

On December 8th, 1992, an interest meeting was held, where it was agreed to establish The Probus Club of Watsonia. A further meeting was then held on February 5th, 1993, for those interested in joining the new Club: 57 membership applications were received, a committee formed, and John was elected as the inaugural President.

The Club’s first official meeting was held on Friday 5th March, 1993, at the Community Hall in Lambourne Road, Watsonia, with all 57 new members present. John was then officially appointed as President. (Pictured.)

In 2014, the Club’s meeting venue was changed to the Watsonia R.S.L., where the Club still meets. They currently have 115 supportive members, including 9 inaugural members and 3 life members.

The current President Sue has been, like all their former leaders, inspirational and supportive, hence the strong continued growth and success of the Club.

Happy 30th anniversary to the Probus Club of Watsonia!

Enjoying Melbourne’s State Library’s Secrets

A dozen members of Melbourne Bearbrass Probus have marvelled at the hidden, secret side of Melbourne’s famous State Library, Victoria. It’s one of the world’s oldest (est. 1856) and still busiest libraries, with its design echoing the Library of Congress and the British Museum Reading Room. The official guided tours of “below decks” are rare events.

The 12 Probians saw some of the library’s 3,000,000 books and items, lots of rooms underground that were stashed with odd furniture awaiting repair and 40 metre rows of card index boxes.

The visitors even milled around in an “elephant lift,” in working order from the 1920s. The “elephants” refer to “Double Elephant” folios of plant and animal drawings. The visitors discovered one wall of the lift could be slid back for loading the oversized Double Elephants.

The library’s most famous “Double Elephant” is a John Audubon folio: “Birds of America,” from a set of 100 folios (38in by 26in) with each of the 435 birds featured in life-size, hand-coloured action shots. A copy on the world market is now worth approximately $US16m.

When asked if the library had suffered any thefts, tour guide Norman said, “Yes, in 1991 someone stole one of Australia’s largest gold nuggets that was on exhibition here, the 8kg ‘Pride of Australia.’ … It was worth $250,000 when the smash and grab people made off with it, and I doubt anyone will ever see it again.”

Melbourne Bearbrass Probus Club members were thrilled with the tour and are already plotting more Bearbrass trips to this intriguing and beautiful building.

Learning about the Melbourne Metro

26 members of Syndal Combined Probus Club visited the Melbourne Metro Tunnel Information Centre for a guided tour. The displays share a wealth of information about the technical and social planning that has gone into the new venture. The Club members have reported that the website is also fascinating and informative, with daily updates, promotional material, news clips and behind the scenes insight.

The tour was followed by a day in the city. The Club sings the praises of all Melbourne has to offer and encourages everyone to get out there!

Antiques Roadshow at Sunrise

Melbourne Sunrise Probus Club had a meeting with a difference in February!

Filling the beautiful old Mission to Seafarers main room with 86 Probus members, two antiques experts assessed a huge array of treasures brought in by members. There was a great deal of excitement and a few disappointments as the experts discussed and valued the items.

Part of the display was a magnificent piece of jewellery handed down from the King of Kandy (Sri Lanka), antique maps, Victorian jewellery, an antique doll pram, a wonderful album of postcards and so many more items.

It was a fun-filled day to celebrate the start of a new year and the increasing number of members now meeting again face-to-face post Melbourne’s strict lockdowns.

Amazing Probian Maureen Growden

Acountry girl at heart, Maureen began life in Gladstone, South Australia. She attended school at Bundaleer, Washpool and then Jamestown High. Her working life started as a bakery assistant and bookkeeper in the Spalding Bakery. Working life continued to sheep farming and pastoral management after Maureen married and while they raised their family. The family has more recently grown to include 8 grandchildren and 5 greatgrandchildren.

In 1995, Maureen became a Foundation Member of the Jamestown District Probus Club. She has continued to provide a guiding influence on the management committee and, indeed, the whole Club. She does this without losing any of her effortless vibrancy and vivaciousness. Still injecting new ideas to her Club to keep everyone included and engaged after almost 30 years- including recently helping to organise the new monthly “cuppa and chat” group. She was made a life member in 2012.

The Club Committee acknowledges her enduring commitment to leadership, training and assistance provision. Maureen was the Club treasurer in 2000-05 and commenced her role as

the Tour Director in 2007, a role in which she went above and beyond. With genuine concern for all, Maureen has personally assisted isolated members of her Club to get to meetings and join activities that they would have otherwise missed. She contributed to the Club’s recovery post-pandemic and resumption of regular meetings.

The Club website reads like an autobiography of her work, featuring the many varied activities she has worked tirelessly to organise. These activities include bus and train travel, adventures, history tours, gardens, musicals, museums, traversing various intrastate/ interstate scenic regions and much more. She also coordinated the ProBus (the bus owned by the club) and its participation in the annual Christmas Pageant up Ayr street to the delight of the young and the...less young.

Maureen has always set up a display table at the meetings of ‘things to do’, ready with pad and pens for reservations, notes or ideas. She has taken care of insurance and first aid concerns, and in an unofficial capacity, has always been available as chef and baker –having fed the Club numerous times. She catered the region Probus Club gatherings, baked and decorated the Club’s 10th and 20th Birthday cakes and has also loaned her culinary skills to many other community organisations and charities over the years. (Maureen has

been involved with and volunteered for Helping Hand Belalie Lodge, Meals on Wheels, Community Connect, Jamestown Christian Book Shop, Cancer Council Daffodil Day, Jamestown A.H. & F. Show Society and Convenor of the Cookery Section.)

Maureen has been the embodiment of fun and friendship in retirement – having made lasting friendships and continuing to make new ones all the time. If the chorus of complimentary remarks about her and her outings are anything to go by, she is a favourite of many in the Club, too.

For her tireless efforts and for always being willing to help without being asked, Jamestown District Probus wishes to recognise Maureen Growden as an Amazing Probian.

Amazing Probian Des Jones turns 100!

Des Jones joined the Men’s Probus Club of Yarrawonga Mulwala in 1990 –only one year after the formation of the Club. For 33 years Des has been an active member of the Club and will be recognised in the May meeting, as he will be turning 100 on May 4th!

Des has always been an active member of his Probus Club and has been the guest speaker on several occasions – regaling the audience with his naval tales. He was involved with the lawn bowls group when they played. Des still drives himself everywhere and enjoys listening to marching music and watching movies on his home theatre.

Des attempted to join the army at 17, but when they discovered his age, he was sent home. In December of 1940, he joined the Navy.

In March 1941, 17-yearold Des was stationed on the HMAS Canberra: one of two 10,000-tonne County Class heavy cruisers. In August 1942 HMAS Canberra operated with the naval force supporting the American landings at Guadalcanal and Tulagi. On 9th August 1942 at 2.00 am (according to Des) in the battle of Savo Island, HMAS Canberra was struck on the starboard side by 2 torpedoes and over 20 salvoes of 8-inch shellfire.

With power gone, as the

boiler was destroyed, the 5 men in the boiler room were lost. It was Des and his crew who had been in the boiler until midnight – only 2 hours before the attack – and were now at a new post. One of his crew was killed and another lost his hand but survived.

With the ship listing, the crew were transferred to USS Patterson and USS Blue. Once the wounded and survivors were transferred safely, the Rear Admirals, Turner & VAC Crushley, ordered USS Selfridge to scuttle the ship. Of all those that survived, Des Jones is now the last remaining crew member of HMAS Canberra.

An invitation was extended by the Royal Australian Navy to attend the Commemorative Service for the 80th

Anniversary of the loss of HMAS Canberra during the battle of Savo Island in the Second World War. Des attended services held in both Sydney and Canberra on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th August 2022.

The Services were also attended by politicians and high-ranking defence personnel. Des was given the honour of laying wreaths at Garden Island, Sydney and Lake Burley Griffin, Canberra.

Des Jones continued his navy service until the end of the War. He got married, had three children – one girl and two boys - and is now a grandfather and great-grandfather. Des had a successful commercial electrical business in Geelong for many

years. He is now a resident of Yarrawonga and enjoys the company at Woods Point Village.

Words Into Masterpieces

- Creative Writing by Probians

This month, Tony from Melbourne Bearbrass Probus discovered an Artificial Intelligence poet program. That’s right, a computer program that tries it hand at creating poetry.

For interest’s sake, Tony asked if the machine could coin a few works of art… these are the results. Not bad for a program on the internet.

Next issue, we will return to featuring Creative Writing by (human) Probians. Please send submissions to editorial@probussouthpacific.org

Melbourne Bearbrass Probus, oh how fair, A group of active retirees so rare, With wit and wisdom, grace and cheer, You make the golden years of life so dear.

In Melbourne’s streets, so bustling and bright, You roam and gather, with comrades in sight, Your laughter and camaraderie so warm, Illuminates the city, like a summer storm.

With activities aplenty, your days are filled, With arts, and sports, and leisure, all distilled, Into a life of richness, free from strife, Oh Melbourne Bearbrass Probus, your grace is life.

So here’s to you, in this sonnet I pen, May your days be long and your joys never end, May the love and friendship you share ever grow, And may the blessings of life forever flow.

O, Probus South Pacific, an organisation so divine, For active retirees, a joyous space to shine. With laughter and cheer, they spend their days, Engaging in pursuits, in new ways to blaze.

In friendship and sport, they find a steadfast mate, Bonding in joys, in life’s journey to sate. Their camaraderie, a bond that’s ever bright, Inspiring all, to lead a life so bright.

O, Probus South Pacific, you offer them delight, A haven of peace, and endless sun so bright. With endless mirth and endless zeal, they live, Their spirits forever young, they joyous give.

ODE TO MELBOURNE BEARBRASS PROBUS ODE TO PROBUS

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