The Probian June - July 2017

The Victorian

Official newsletter of the Probus Association of Victoria Inc.A9835

June-July 2017 Vol 24 No 3

FREE

TO EVERY MEMBER OF ALL AFFILIATED

PROBUS CLUBS WITHIN VICTORIA

A Day at the

Races

Hundreds enjoy Probus Friendship Day â– See Pages 15, 20-21

news

Table of Contents Regulars

Page

Three decades and still going strong

PAV Committee ........................ 4

WERRIBEE Probus celebrated 30 years since it was formed on 28 April 1987 with activities on 22 May at the 520 Hotel Reception Centre.

The celebration was attended by steering member Peter Ross, then as a representative of the club’s sponsor Werribee Rotary Club, and life members Bill Bloomcamp and Gordon Eddy.

Members were interested to hear Peter’s august comments about the day the club was formed.

The first president was Wal Eacott and the secretary and treasurer was Roy Strurgess.

Reg Hassett, editor of the club’s history book From Bowlers to Liberators enlightened the newer members with an entertaining resume of events of the past with a powerful presentation including caravan trips and

President’s Message ................ 4 Staying scam safe online .......... 5 New Zealand by coach ............ 11 Luxury glimpse of Vietnam ...... 14 Vets & Pets............................ 29 Healthy Ageing ....................... 30 My Word ................................ 31 Club News ............................. 38

ADVERTISE

in the Victorian Probian

The Victorian Probian is the official publication of the Probus Association of Victoria. It circulates to over 40,000 Probians plus their partners as well as to many other strategically placed locations throughout Melbourne and Victoria.

Past presidents of more recent years - Reg Hassett, Bill Bloomcamp, Peter Ross, Jim Rayner, Tony Muller, Jack Dellar Rob Dove and Bob James. bowls tournaments from where the club gets the funds to keep afloat.

Autographed copies of From Bowlers to Liberators are available at a small cost.

The history of the club

with many photographs was available for members to view.

The luncheon was of excellent quality and we members were entertained with the music by Domenic and songs by Graeme Morrison.

The foundation committee at the inaugural meeting held 28 April 1987 - Roy Sturgess, Bill Bloomcamp, Reg Loats, Lex Cameron (seated) Jim Latte, Sid Dunn and Wally Eacott.

Congratulations to the winners of the club raffle organised by Bill Dean.

The next meeting is at 10am on 26 June at the Werribee Bowls Club.

PLEASE CONTACT THE PUBLISHER Phone 5945 0666 Fax 5945 0777 production@starnewsgroup.com.au

Clubs get together and look to future

mcurtin3@icloud.com ianmilton@hotmail.com barrene5@bigpond.com ggoodo@hotmail.com

Published by Star News Group Pty Ltd ACN 005 848 108.

Publisher/Managing Director, Paul Thomas.

All material is copyright to Star News Group Pty Ltd. All significant errors will be corrected as soon as possible. Distribution numbers, areas and coverage are estimates only. For our terms and conditions please visit www.starcommunity.com.au

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ADVERTISING Michael Curtin M: 0408 082 921 E: Ian Milton M: 0412 198 382 E: Barry Hodge M: 0408 990 200 E: Graeme Goodson M: 0412 596 900 E:

WITH two Probus clubs in Pascoe Vale and both experiencing reducing numbers, it was deemed to be time to meet to discuss the future.

Sub-committees from the Pascoe Vale Central and Probus Club of Pascoe Vale met and discussed options for the future.

Each club had about 52 members and there was a mutual feeling that bringing the clubs together would be best for the future.

Such a move was felt necessary, as both clubs faced declining numbers due mainly to age and ill-health.

It was decided that both clubs should amalgamate, with better opportunities to provide more activities - both in-house and outings.

The proposal was met with approval from members of both clubs.

As it would be costly to create another

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The first meeting of the amalgamated club was held on 11 May 2017. There is a feeling that this will be a happy and progressive union.

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news

New spin on stroke ordeal

BY CASEY NEILL PROBIANS took inspiration from a young stroke victim at a Dandenong Club event.

Emma Gee was the guest speaker at the Probus Association of Victoria (PAV) delegates meeting on Monday 22 May. She spoke about developing resilience and choosing to bounce back.

“What an inspiration she is to all of us,” PAV president Joan Vogels said.

“We don’t know what’s around the corner.”

Another Probus member thanked Ms Gee for sharing her story.

“I don’t think many of us have gone through half of what you’ve gone through,” she said.

At age 24, Ms Gee worked with stroke survivors as an occupational therapist.

She’d just finished climbing a mountain in Malaysia when she first realised something was wrong.

She felt clumsy and was walking into walls. Doctors found a problem in her brain stem known as an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) - a tangle of blood vessels that could burst and kill her.

“For 24 years, the hardest decision I’d had to make was chocolate, vanilla or strawberry ice cream,” Ms Gee said.

She elected to have the surgery. She suffered a stroke during the procedure and went into a coma.

“I remember vividly lying in my coma and being able to hear people around me,” she said.

Guest speaker Emma Gee. 167773

PAV president Joan Vogels with guest speaker Emma Gee. 167773 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS She could hear her mum begging her to open her eyes.

“But I can’t move. My eyes would not open,” she said.

Eight days later, her eyelids finally responded.

“My world was spinning, like a ride I’d once been on at the show,” she said.

“I couldn’t move. I couldn’t speak. I couldn’t swallow.

“I’ve never been so scared in my entire life.

“I really needed to choose to take a positive spin on things.”

Ms Gee hated her first walking frame, naming it anchovy after another of her hates.

She asked her occupational therapist for “a funkier vehicle” and was thrilled when she said yes.

“My therapist never delivered on what she said she’d do,” she said.

Ms Gee said integrity was important - to do what you say you’re going to do - as was being proactive.

“I went and bought myself a Mercedes,” she said.

She took control instead of choosing to blame someone else.

Ms Gee said she desperately wanted to “be the old Em” but it was important to “accept what you can’t change, change what you can”.

“Being fixated on what I used to be

able to do was only going to set me up for failure,” she said.

She told the audience that being patient and grateful was something she had to learn.

“I’d accepted I needed people to help me,” she said.

“But I would be so bitter and resentful towards them.”

Ms Gee would watch her cleaner and think “I could do better”.

“Be thankful for what you have, you’ll have a lot more,” she said.

“It’s not what happens to us that matters but how we choose to deal with it.”

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 3

president’s message

PAV Commitee

Treated like royalty

President: JOAN VOGELS OAM Phone: 0410 029 738

Email: Joanandlouvogels@bigpond.com

Vice President: MARION BOWRING Phone: (03) 9770 6448

BEACONSFIELD Combined Probus Club members are a happy and smiling bunch, but were also very proud at the recent 10th birthday celebrations.

They were proud that the club is growing, that the club is being chosen as the one that new members want to join and

Email: marion.bowring@bigpond.com

Secretary: RODNEY JAMES Phone: 0425 864 447 PO 2349, Rowville, 3178

Email: Rodney.james2@icloud.com

Treasurer: BERYL VOGWELL Phone: (03) 9787 6669

proud of the space they occupy within the community.

Sixty-eight members attended the recent AGM and 10th birthday celebration, followed by the awarding of the club’s second life membership to Margaret Westaway, the founding secretary who has also held the positions of

assistant secretary, public officer four times, publicity officer, attendance officer twice and president in 2009.

The President

Margaret is still a popular member of the club.

Joan Vogels

A spit roast and birthday cake followed where members royally celebrated - just a little.

HELLO Probians, Since taking on the role of President of PAV I have had the opportunity to visit some clubs, maybe a special celebration, or because of one of our many PAV sporting competitions or friendship days.

Everywhere I go I meet beautiful people who are friendly and welcoming. Some of these Probians are hardworking committee members of their respective clubs and who seem to be reaping the rewards that come from contributing.

The members of the subcommittee who are planning the PAVulous Weekend in Swan Hill are no exception, we are enjoying the experience of planning this event for Probians throughout Victoria. Every Probian who attends will have a most enjoyable time, meet new friends and take home great memories.

All you have to do is join in and we promise to do the rest.

Yours in Probus friendship, Joan Vogels OAM.

Email: probusacc@gmail.com

Immediate Past President: LES BARBER Phone: 5991 5515

Email: lesbarber@selandrarisevillage.com.au

Committee: PAMELA GRAY Phone: (03) 5986 7442 CHRISTINE KERSHAW Phone: (03) 9783 6205 Email: c.a.k.s.53@hotmail.com

Webmaster: GRAHAM MUSGRAVE Phone: 0407 883 269

Email: admin@probusvic.com.au

Golf Tournament Co-ordinator KERRY FRASER Phone: 5960 3990

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Email: kgfraser@optusnet.com.au

Send contributed editorial material and Club Notes to Star News Group.

PO Box 9, Pakenham 3810 or Email: probian@starnewsgroup.com.au

Making friends and terrific memories too

Margaret Westaway receives her life membership.

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4 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

news

Staying scam safe online

Jill’s fantastic

500 inspiration THE Wheelers Hill Combined Probus Club hosted its fifth and final annual 500 Card Tournament on Monday 1 May 2017 at the Sandown Park Hotel.

Members were thrilled by the interest and response in maintaining numbers from the previous year of 80 players, representing 14 Probus clubs.

Play commenced at 10am and four games were completed prior to lunch at noon.

A very enjoyable carvery was served with team pairs sitting among other players.

Play resumed about 1pm and another four games were completed.

Dessert was served while final scores were tallied as everyone waited for the results to appear on the computerised screen.

President Barry Stevens welcomed the clubs and all players, speaking in glowing terms of Jill Croom who has been very well supported by her committee and helpers over the five years.

He was clearly impressed as he felt the sense of enjoyment the moment he arrived - a real eye opener. He presented prizes to the champion team of four, East Malvern Chaddy, who won 12 games between them (Margaret Redman, Ron Redman, Ernie Brigham and Sal Tesoriero).

The Best Pair were Kerri Jones and Marlene Gibson of Donvale Demons, winning seven of eight games and scoring 4160 points.

The most Jokers of 18 was a tie between Rae Mayes of Syndal Lucky Four and Maureen Trickett of Narre Warren Barras who won vouchers kindly donated by the hotel.

Lucky door prizes of nine bottles of wine and two packs of cards were well spread between the players.

Jill Croom dreamt up this style of tournament and thereafter has driven it with a real passion, which Janet Jackson acknowledged with kind words of appreciation and presented her with flowers.

THE Andrews Labor government is taking action to help older Victorians stay safe online.

Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz has launched a new awareness campaign to give older Victorians the tools to avoid scams while surfing the net.

A Consumer Affairs Victoria survey shows that nearly one in five older Victorians has fallen for a cyber scam.

Victorians aged 55 and over made more than 7000 reports and lost over $4.5 million to scams in 2016.

And across Australia, people aged 55 and over made 45 per cent of all scam reports last year.

The survey also found that 92 per cent of respondents have received a scam invitation and 18 per cent have fallen for a scam.

Email was the leading channel for scammers, while 38 per cent of all victims lost money as a result of being scammed.

“Becoming internet savvy is opening doors for older Victorians to keep in touch with family and friends, and a whole lot more.

But, unfortunately, it also exposes

them to scammers,” Ms Kairouz said.

“Through the Scam Survey and Scams Awareness campaign, the Andrews Labor government is empowering older Victorians with the skills to avoid scammers and enjoy their time online.”

The new campaign brings together Consumer Affairs Victoria, Crime Stoppers Victoria, the Council of the Ageing Victoria and the Public Libraries Victoria Network, and will help older Victorians to identify and avoid online scams.

Older Victorians will be able to attend education sessions at their local participating public library and put their scam knowledge to the test through the CAV Scams Quiz. The quiz can be found at consumer.vic.gov.au/scamsavvy, along with the powerful stories of scam victims.

To report a scam visit the Consumer Affairs Victoria website and complete the Dob-in-a-Scam form at consumer.vic.gov.au or call the Helpline on 1300 558 181 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

The winning team, from left, Margaret Redman, Ernie Brigham, Sal Tesoriero, Ron Redman of East Malvern Chaddy and Wheelers Hill club president Barry Stevens.

Jill thanked her sub-committee of Brian Brown, Freda Butler, David Cotton, Janet Jackson and Alan Taylor for all their efforts over the years.

Jill acknowledged past committee member Bill Dair who is sadly missed.

Five years ago Bill and Alan Taylor were instrumental in setting up the computerised screen which displayed a running tally of the scores.

The valuable assistance of the volunteers was also acknowledged - Lynda Andrews, Helen Brown, Lynn and Jenny Carter, Pam Cotton, Pauline Fischer, Jill’s daughter Louise Ford, Kerry Fraser and Pat Taylor.

Jill Croom, left, whose inspiration it was and who drove the concept, being presented with flowers by card committee member Janet Jackson.

Played in the spirit of fun, friendship and fellowship, the final tournament again won high praise from other clubs for its slick organisation and entertainment.

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MORE than 100 Bunyip-Garfield Probus members have celebrated the club’s 10-year anniversary.

The milestone was marked by a celebratory lunch that included entertainment by David Gould at the Garfield Hall, on Tuesday 4 April.

Probus Club Publicity Officer Helen Peggie said club members will be forever indebted to the former Bunyip-Garfield Rotary Club for its foresight in forming the club.

“We now look forward to continuing to expand our interests, gaining friends and having fun and fellowship in the years ahead,” she said.

Over the years the Probus Club’s membership has more than doubled from the original 40 founding members, with 113 members attending its regular events, cultural outings, walk, trips and coffee group catch ups.

Come along for the cruisin’ weekend Swan Hill fit the bill and had a new sound and light show.

She and the PAV treasurer visited last October for a feasibility study and the town’s tourism team introduced them to plenty of possibilities.

Ms Vogels has built a sample itinerary and is welcoming interest from up to 300 people by the end of June.

Probians can bring along their friend or spouse, whether they’re fellow members or not.

“The more the merrier,” she said.

The $345 price tag will include buses,

VICTORIA’S Probians have their very own weekend away to look forward to.

Probus Association of Victoria (PAV) president Joan Vogels from Pakenham said Probus South Pacific had run an Australiawide rendezvous for many years.

The last state president had the idea of a localised event and Ms Vogels decided to make it happen.

The PAVulous weekend will run from 17 to 20 November in Swan Hill.

Ms Vogels was looking for a provincial city that wasn’t a usual pit-stop.

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entry fees and most meals.

On the itinerary is a river cruise aboard the PS Pyap, a town history tour, and visits to the Catalina Flying Boat Museum and Planetarium at Lake Boga, a strawberry farm, and the Olson Pheasant Farm.

Ms Vogels has been organising Probus events for about 20 years.

“Probians go to enjoy themselves,” she said.

“I could take them to the park and they’d have a great time.”

Visit www.probusvic.com.au to access the PAVulous Weekend booking form.

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Members, from left, Marj Cowie, Jack and Gloria Collins, Judith Savage, Ian Macfarlane (President), Pauline Ure, and Tony Williams with the club’s tenth birthday cake. 166404

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travel feature The 360 degree views from the Taipei 101 observation deck will amaze visitors.

Amazing experiences on the beautiful island IF YOU ask the average person in the street what they know about Taiwan, the responses would probably range from not much to nothing at all!

Some might identify Taiwan as the country that massed produced T-shirts and other apparel throughout the Western world in the 1970s and ’80s.

Most of us would remember that Made in Taiwan tag at the collar of a shirt or a pair of shorts.

This writer is here to tell you that Taiwan is a truly wonderful destination that has certainly come of age, and can confidently offer the discerning traveller everything they want or hope for!

In 2017 the mature traveller needs many boxes ticked for them as they experience their country of choice. Today the destination of their choice needs to be great value for money and needs to have

many and varied options of experiences, culture and history.

But probably the most important these days is that it needs to be safe in all areas and at all times of the day and night.

Taiwan excels in all of these needs.

Taiwan, or as originally called Formosa, which is Portuguese for ‘beautiful island’, lies about 180km from mainland China across the Taiwan Strait.

It lies on the tropic of Cancer and is great for travel all year round with direct flights several times a week from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne.

The main capital Taipei is known as the Manhattan of the East due to its network of streets and avenues, and a plethora of yellow taxis.

Taipei never sleeps and is truly one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

Getting around is so easy with the MRT or mass rapid transit, an underground rail system that is the envy of most major cities.

You are never waiting long as at most times of the day you see a train enter and leave the platform every two minutes.

Speaking of rail, Taiwan also boasts an amazing high speed rail system that reaches speeds of 300 kilometres per hour.

If rail is not your style, Taiwan also claims an amazing freeway system that enables the traveller access to even the most remote parts of the island, making luxury coach travel readily available to explore this wonderful land.

Many highlights abound in Taiwan however Taroko Gorge is a must see.

Taroko is an amazing 19km long canyon

situated on the east coast with the national park area boasting 144 species of birds, 10 of which are indigenous to Taiwan.

It also hosts more than 30 large species of mammal including deer, boar and bear along with 251 species of butterflies, 32 species of reptile and 18 species of fish.

Within the Taroko gorge area there are many nature walks ranging from the very easy to the more challenging.

Another must see in Taiwan is the Sun Moon Lake scenic area. Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in Taiwan and one of the most popular tourist attractions.

The area is scattered with world class hotels so visitors can easily spend several days exploring the lake surrounds.

Back into Taipei the highlights are endless, but two must-do attractions include visits to Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum. Until a few years ago, Taipei 101 was the tallest building in the world. The 360 degree views of the vibrant Taipei city from the observation deck will amaze you.

The National Palace Museum, continually ranked top five museums in the world, exhibits a permanent collection of nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese Imperial artefacts, encompassing 8000 years of Chinese art from the Neolithic age to the modern.

So to the average person, Taiwan might still remain a mystery, however it is pleasing to report that many Probians have experienced Taiwan over the past few years - and many more should!

If you are interested in travelling to Taiwan, then join one of our group departures.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 7

news Poets Corner OUR CLUB IS 30 Back in nineteen eighty seven, our Probus club was formed, With thirty-two new members, a happy fellowship was born.

Four original members are still in our club today.

We congratulate them one by one on this special day.

Vilma Jackson, our first secretary, so many financial hurdles to overcome.

Joyce Turner, on that first committee, has given so much to the club and some!

Nancy Beckhouse, three times president, who can top that scoop.

And Gwenda Hoad our fourth member of this exclusive group.

We thank them especially and many others who have contributed so much, Too many to name, but you know who you are, we thank you very much.

Joining fee was twenty dollars and it is still the same.

Subs were fifteen, they have risen a bit, cost of living is the blame!

At our peak in 2011, we had 95 members in all.

But now we have 69, that is quite a fall.

Let’s get behind our wonderful club, get involved once more.

Bring along new members, we don’t want to close the door.

We need members to join the committee, give it a fresh new start.

So make an effort every one of you, to join in, give it your heart.

We have made it to our 30th anniversary, so happy birthday to all.

So enjoy the day and hug everyone here, we are all friends after all.

This year’s Mt Martha committee.

Cupcakes for birthday MT Martha Ladies Probus celebrated its 30th anniversary this year.

Four original members - Nancy Beckhouse, Gwenda Hoad, Vilma Jackson

and Joyce Turner - were all present at the luncheon meeting.

They were each presented with a beautiful posy of flowers.

Instead of a birthday cake, everyone had a special cupcake with ‘30’ on them.

A poem was written to mark the occasion.

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news

Downsizing policy not right

BY IAN HENSCHKE, CHIEF ADVOCATE, NATIONAL SENIORS AUSTRALIA. NATIONAL Seniors’ Rightsizing proposal was pretty straightforward.

We asked that $250,000 be quarantined from the profits of the sale of the family home and exempted from the Aged Pension means test.

Older Australians could keep this money to pay for essentials such as health and aged care as they grew even older - and keep their part or full pension, and the concessions that go with them.

Around one in four National Seniors’ members have told us they live in unsuitable houses - they are too big, too expensive to maintain, or even unsafe if mobility is compromised.

Our aim was to help those older Australians who most needed it - the ones on part and full aged pensions, that top out at $888pf for a single person and $1339.40pf for a couple, including supplements.

The government’s initiative is more about superannuation than downsizing.

It’s complex and relies on the transfer of surplus sales proceeds into superannuation.

That money will then be considered for the means test. So those who want to downsize will lose some, most, or all of their pension depending on the calculations.

That was a key reason why many home-owning pensioners were staying put before the budget, and it’s hard to see how

Ian Henschke, Chief Advocate, National Seniors Australia. that will change because of this initiative.

There’s also the added issue of stamp duty costs, which vary from state to state.

But here’s a couple of scenarios.

A single pensioner in a house worth $870,000 (the Melbourne median house price is $850,000) sells and downsizes to a $320,000 single bedroom unit. They

make $550,000 on the sale and would be able to put $300,000 into a super account, leaving $250,000 cash.

This puts them over the pension threshold, without considering any nonhome assets (e.g. car and furniture). They would need to earn a return of 4.25 per cent pa on their $550,000 in super and

cash just to replace the pension (now $23,096pa, including supplements, with no tax payable), and that’s a tall order in today’s economic climate. They’d also lose the pension concession card, which is worth $2-3000 pa.

Now let’s look at a different example. A couple who are self-funded retirees have more than $821,500 in non-home assets so are not eligible for a pension.

They are asset rich because they have a home worth $2.4 million. They downsize to a unit worth $1.8 million. They can add a further $600,000 in proceeds from the sale to their super, taking it to a total of $1,421,500. The minimum income they allowed to draw is $71,075 pa, with no tax payable.

They are winners, but hardly living a life of luxury.

One estimate I saw in post-Budget analysis estimated 10,000 homeowners may take advantage of the new scheme each year. That’s a fraction of the number of pensioners in Australia who would be helped by a genuine downsizing policy.

National Seniors believes it’s good to have incentives for Australians to better fund their retirement. But as you can see from our examples above, this policy is hardly a game-changer.

At the same time, some full and partpensioners may look at this as a significant disincentive to downsize.

National Seniors will continue to campaign for a genuine downsizing policy and with almost 2 million pensioners who are homeowners, this is a policy the Federal Government needs to get right.

important dates to remember SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2017 EDITION Club News supplied by Monday July 24, 2017

Our service offers the individual the opportunity to be buried in a rural setting using a simple approach that considers the environment and minimises the cost

To The Club News Co-ordinator, Graham Musgrave Probus Association of Victoria Inc. Care of PO Box 2349 Rowville 3178.

Email: musgrave2@bigpond.com

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To your regular media advertising contact listed herein by individual email.

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT: The Victorian Probian Graeme Goodson: (03) 9399 8600 • Mobile 0412 596 900 Email: ggoodo@hotmail.com Ian Milton: Email:

Mobile 0412 198 382 ianmilton@hotmail.com

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 9

news

Spectacular trip to Inverloch THE Combined Probus Club of Maroondah took a Cabins and Caravans Trip to Inverloch - the club’s 19th trip!

Inverloch is a beautiful part of Gippsland with plenty to do - walking, swimming, fishing, exploring along the beaches and the rock pools and even shopping!

The mornings start with a walk, then coffee and much chatting!

Members are free to do as they wish for the rest of the day until the evening, when they meet again for Happy Hour and dinner, usually a barbecue.

Golf, bowls and bocce are some of the sporting activities for some, while others explore and sample some of the gourmet delights of the area.

One evening was spent with members of the Inverloch Probus Club enjoying fellowship, friendship and fun with fellow Probians.

On this trip, one of the Happy Hour evenings was dedicated to a Sporting Spectacular when members could dress in their favourite sporting gear! A gold coin donation was collected and the amount was given to the Inverloch Surf Lifesaving Club so that some financial help could be given to the Nippers (Junior Lifesavers).

Thanks go to the convenors Peter and Kathrine Hopgood.

Members out for a morning walk at Inverloch.

Val Hockey and Elizabeth Jensen at the Sports Night.

Stef Burt and Joan Manzin get into the spirit of the Sports Night.

A wet walk along Screw Creek.

Peter Hopgood and Rhonda and John Carson at the Sports Night.

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10 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 11

news Members outside the Rye RSL on their tour of Mornington Peninsula.

Across the bay JUST under 50 members of the EMCPC boarded the Big Bus, with our favourite driver Yureck, for a day trip across the bay by ferry.

Huge thanks to the East Malvern Community Bendigo Bank which again sponsored the cost so all members had to pay for was lunch.

Members were lucky enough to enjoy

a beautiful 25 degree day driving to Queenscliff, enjoying morning tea on the Geelong foreshore before heading off to the ferry terminal for our trip over to Sorrento.

The views of the shore while gliding along crystal clear waters were most enjoyable and we arrived back in Melbourne around 4.30pm.

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Here you can watch the Edward River flow gently past, swim and paddle around,

All aboard the Big Bus.

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ski, boat and catch a fish or two – all without leaving the park.

Come as strangers, leave as friends!

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12 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

news

Members combined for trip fun THE East Malvern Combined Probus Club’s yearly mid-week break was held at the El Kanah Guest House in Marysville in May this year.

A not-for-profit organisation and registered charity, it relies strongly on people like us to pay our way for the benefit of those not so fortunate.

A victim of the 2009 bush fires, El Kanah was re-built and what a wonderful place it is with spacious, spotless rooms with the most comfortable beds ever provided and beautiful meals including breakfast.

Car-pooling through the Black Spur in beautiful weather 40 members arrived to receive the key to our rooms.

At 5pm we headed off to the social room for Happy Hour, followed by a delicious buffet dinner in the dining room.

Our evening entertainment was bingo followed by a sing-a-long led by our own guitarist Ian Marks, followed the next evening by Movie Night and whilst our projectionist Ernie struck some IT problems (hello, know the feeling?) we eventually saw a compilation of comedy from the ’60s and an amusing film The Quartet set in a nursing home for retired musicians and classical singers.

These two evenings were fun but surpassed by our last evening’s entertainment, holding our own seniorsfriendly Olympic Games, organised by our President Sandy with husband Ernie Brigham.

Some of the costumes were hilarious and our judges in their white coats looked like left-over umpires from the footy at the MCG in the ’50s.

The costumes brought out a laugh.

Afterwards we were placed into groups and a lot of effort was put in to win the prized Pink Flying Pig, Probie for a year’s accommodation.

During the days we explored the region and discovered the original Timber Tramway and Museum in Alexandra, Bruno’s amazing garden and sculptures, spent some money at the many curio and gift shops, drove over the Eildon Dam spillway, were entranced at the height of the Steavenson Falls, lunch at the Marysville Duck Inn, and had a go at trout fishing at Buxton Trout and Salmon Farm.

Many thanks to John and Lorraine McBeth for organising such an interesting itinerary.

A great time was had by all and we are very lucky to have a great committee and plenty of willing helpers to make an event like this so successful.

This surely is what Probus is all about.

- Maggie Summers

A few members try their luck at Buxton Trout Farm.

Fun and games with an Olympic theme.

In the spirit of the Games.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 13

travel feature

Luxury glimpse of Vietnam ELITE Travel is proud to bring the Victorian Probian readers another value-added luxury experience of Northern Vietnam.

The tour includes return economy class airfare from Sydney to Hanoi, one night on board the five star Signature Cruise in Halong Bay, five nights in 4 star accommodation, 10 meals (six breakfasts, three lunches and one dinner), private return airport transfers, comprehensive sightseeing, service of an English-speaking

tour guide, entrance fees at monuments, return shuttle bus Hanoi-Halong Bay, Private Hanoi City Tour and all applicable government taxes.

What a wonderful way to experience the Northern Vietnam in luxury. If you want to include business class flights, please speak to one of the Elite Travel consultants and they can arrange this for you. You can call us on 1800 627 704 or email info@ elitetravel.com.au

If you are looking to travel as a group we can arrange this for you and look after all your needs. This short duration tour is one of the best ways to see Northern Vietnam.

Once you have organised the group please let one of our staff and they can come to your club and explain the itinerary and all the requirements in detail so that your group is 100 per cent prepared before you depart Melbourne. This is part of our service to the Victorian Probian community.

So, if you need any further information please feel to contact us any time.

When booking with us you can join our rewards program for free. Earn one ‘EliteAward’ for each dollar spent. If you are a new client and you book with us we will reward you with 5000 ‘EliteReward’ that you can use it towards your next holiday.

Our travel experts are on stand-by to receive your call. We look forward to hearing from you.

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14 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

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news

Best-dressed lady Beryl Vogwell from Mt Eliza and gentleman Ian Milton from San Remo. 168117

Catching up after four decades - bridesmaid Lorriane Hodgkinson, left, from Dromana Bay with her good friend, the bride, Judy Brown from Dingley Central. 168117 Pictures: STEWART CHAMBERS

Robert and Peggy Renshaw from the Syndal club were the best-dressed couple. 168117

Old friends are off and racing

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The Pakenham club relocated from its home of 88 years to a new world-class track just out of town at Tynong two years ago.

The racing club donated a seniors membership package for the 2017-’18 season as a door prize, won by Thomas Bettington from the Berwick Central club.

Prizes for the best dressed went to Mt Eliza’s Beryl Vogwell (ladies), San Remo’s Ian Milton (gentleman) and Syndal’s Robert and Peggy Renshaw (couple).

For more pictures of the race day, turn to pages 20-21.

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They were both looking forward to this year’s event to catch up again and didn’t have to look far - their clubs were on adjoining tables.

The coincidences don’t end there. When they caught up last year they discovered Lorriane was president of Dromana Bay and Judy’s husband Ken also had the top role at their club.

The annual Probus Friendship Day race meeting attracted 400 Probians - well up on last year’s crowd of 250.

Pakenham Racing Club chief executive Michael Hodge thanked the Probians for their support and welcomed them back to

12354337-JV23-17

IT WAS a day all about friendship - and that’s exactly what Dingley Central’s Judy Brown and Dromana Bay’s Lorraine Hodgkinson celebrated at the Probus Friendship Day race meeting at Pakenham on 8 June.

Lorraine was a bridesmaid in Judy’s wedding 52 years ago and the two hadn’t been in touch for about 40 years before last year’s Friendship Day race meeting.

When Judy approached, her good friend asked ‘Who are you?’

“I don’t wear glasses anymore and it took a while for her to recognise me,” Judy explained. “And it had been 40 years!”

Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 15

news

Clubs join during week-long visit DURING May, 22 members of the Inverloch Probus Club Outdoor Leisure Group visited Ballarat for seven days of exploration and Probus fellowship.

In Ballarat they attended the Anzac Day commemoration and visited the Botanical Gardens and the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka, enjoying many of the

hands on electronic displays.

During the week they visited the main attractions of many of the nearby towns including Clunes, Ascot, Creswick, Blampied, Ballan, Gordon and Buninyong where they drove up Mt Buninyong for great views and a picnic lunch.

The group was joined by a large group

of Ballarat Probus clubs for a Friday walk around Lake Wendouree and a get together coffee. They enjoyed a Happy Hour every day and many coffee shops were visited during the week culminating in a group dinner at the Ballarat Golf Club.

It was cold and wet for much of the time but it didn’t deter the group from having a great time and a wonderful week.

Many members enjoyed several of the demonstrations and memorabilia at the museum.

The group got together for a photo at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka.

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16 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

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news

Probians John and Faye Tregea, Neville Rantall, Barb Dickinson, Mary O’Connor and Pam Rantall, learn about the carding and spinning of alpaca fleece combined with wool.

Probians Jean Giblett and Susan McInnes meet some alpacas at Great Ocean Road Woollen Mills.

Back: Faye Groves, Sandy McInnes, Joyce Lindquist, Hans Kruse Front: Faye Tregea, June Hallyburton, Noelene Richards and Hazel Collins, all appreciated the lesson in weaving.

Out and about at Timboon TIMBOON and District Probus members have been spoilt for choice with trips lately.

They were also able to enjoy a full, interesting day in the immediate Timboon area, visiting small businesses.

The first stop was at an alpaca farm and spinning mill called Great Ocean Road Woollen Mills. There they met some of the resident alpacas.

The owners took the Probians on an informative tour of the factory as well as teaching the group about the lives of the

alpacas from mating, to birth and maturity.

They learnt that the alpaca fleece is actually hair, needing the addition of wool to strengthen the fibre for knitting.

The next port of call was a weaving studio named Oak Weaving. There, Probians were given comprehensive instruction on the weaving process, including a brief demonstration. The weaver had no less than 10 looms, each fulfilling various specialised functions. She had many examples on display, ranging from scarves and shawls, to jackets sewn from her woven fabric. These consisted of very

pleasing colour combinations.

After a generous lunch in Simpson, the club went off to visit the Snail Farm. They learnt from French born owner Helen, the fascinating life cycle of the snail. Many were surprised to discover that these snails being cultivated for eating, were actually the everyday common garden snail. It was heartening to see them living “free range” among specially cultivated brassicas. In this state, they were retained by strips of electrified copper.

Members had the opportunity to buy a

tasting plate. Some were too wary to try.

Those who did, enjoyed the flavor, which was enhanced by the addition of butter and garlic.

On the trip back to Timboon the Probians visited a fellow member who keeps many varieties of beautifully coloured birds in aviaries in his garden.

This stop completed a wonderful day out, and goes to prove that we may all be surprised by the interesting activities being carried on in our own immediate area.

- Christine Kruse

11 April _ 3 September 2017 at the gold museum

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Get up close to the props, costumes, photography and set sketches; see the historic Ballarat locations featured in the show; and be greeted at the door by Doctor Blake’s iconic 1937 Coventry Standard car.

Discount and curatorial introduction offered for booked groups of 20 or more, for details and bookings email goldmuseum@sovereignhill.com.au

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 17

news

Steelpan band Pans of Fire aims to bring the community together.

Town that has proudly risen from its ashes �e perfect Saturday MSO PLAYS DAS LIED VON DER ERDE Saturday 1 July | 2pm MSO PLAYS SHOSTAKOVICH 5 Saturday 12 August | 2pm SIR ANDREW DAVIS UNCOVERS BRUCKNER 7 Saturday 2 September | 2pm MSO PLAYS RAVEL Saturday 23 September | 2pm MSO PLAYS RACHMANINOV 2 Saturday 25 November | 2pm Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall

Book now mso.com.au/matinees

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18 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

POINT Lonsdale Probus Club members have been organising caravan and cabin trips for many years.

Each trip has been voted “wonderful” and the latest destination, Marysville did not disappoint.

Back in 2009 Marysville was almost completely destroyed by bushfires with only a few buildings left standing and was chosen by this year’s organisers in the hope that as well as having five days of fun and fellowship, we would be helping the economy and supporting the community.

Everywhere we went we found people with a positive attitude towards rebuilding their town staring with Chris at the Marysville Caravan Park who told us about their efforts to rebuild their lives.

The park is very conveniently situated with just a short walk to the town and many attractions.

We found plenty of places to eat, two of note were El Kanah and Kerami Manor.

They had been destroyed and have been rebuilt and brought back to their former glory.

Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden was always a must see before the fires.

Bruno and his wife have spent many hours restoring the gallery, garden and Bruno’s quirky sculptures.

We were fortunate to meet Barry Thomas who spoke to us about the impact the fires have had on the local infrastructure and the population.

Barry has set up the Phoenix Museum in the rebuilt Information Centre.

It is an excellent exhibition documenting the lives of those affected by the fires and the work that had been done since then.

It is well worth a visit as is the Historical Museum.

This was another example of how the town has overcome adversity as the original museum was destroyed. The amount of memorabilia that had been donated is staggering.

While the golfers and bowlers went off to test their skills in new surroundings, the walkers tackled the track to Steavenson Falls.

The Marysville trip was hungry work.

Steavenson Falls was a high point.

While walking along the among the trees and undergrowth it was hard to imagine what the area would have been like after the fires when there were no trees left standing.

One night, while we were enjoying Happy Hour at the caravan park we were entertained by Pans on Fire, a steelpans band that was formed in an attempt to rebuild community spirit.

The fact that they are still performing indicates how successful that venture has been.

Some of us were able to have a go, an experience that was a lot of fun, but I don’t think they will be recruiting any of us.

There were plenty of opportunities for us to explore the town and the surrounding areas in our free time and I am sure return trips will happen as we left there very pleased to have been able to visit such a beautiful area that still needs much support.

news

Overseas advice for business MEMBERS of the Probus Club of Pakenham recently invited Jack and Margaret Mitchell to reflect on some of their volunteer work with Australian Business Volunteers (ABV), previously known as the Australian Executive Service Overseas Program (AESOP).

Jack completed 11 projects as a volunteer between 1994 and 2009 in Micronesia, Samoa, Cebu and Kiribati.

Private and public enterprise businesses were invited to request the services of a volunteer to visit with the primary focus being to work closely with each client to improve the performance and management of their business and to increase efficiencies through effective communications and conduct to achieve measurable outcomes.

Essential components of each project were the regular reports on progress and outcomes provided to the client and to ABV in Canberra.

Acting as facilitator and mentor, Jack worked with clients to analyse current performance and work practices to identify problems and issues.

The agreed tasks were listed, resources allocated, accountabilities and completion dates established.

Jack and Margaret used the example of a family business, Ambros stores in Pohnpei, Micronesia, which is located in the western Pacific.

The business is made up of supermarket and liquor, general merchandise, hardware, café, bakery and

supplier to round the island small shops.

Jack and Margaret visited several times over a two year period from 1998 to 2000 posting sound sustainable improvements.

Pohnpei Island had a population of 35,000 native islanders with a liberal number of Americans and some Australians including the Ambassador, his team and a maintenance and training team from the Australian Navy in support of patrol boats.

The island was home to the National, State and local governments.

Jack and Margaret worked long hours and shared many of their experiences which included attending the local Rotary Club lunch each Wednesday. They maintained contact with their client for some years until his premature death.

Guest speaker Jack Mitchell with club member Di Roberts.

The Mitchells enjoyed the opportunity to volunteer in emerging communities and would recommend it to aspiring senior Australians who are seeking some adventure while doing some good.

Exquisite begonias in Ballan a beauty A group of Kingston Heath Ladies Probus Club members and friends celebrated the 40th anniversary of Probus South Pacific with a wonderful day at the Ballarat Begonia Festival in March.

The trip was extra special because the cost was covered by a grant received from the City of Kingston’s annual grants program.

After morning tea at Ballan, the coach proceeded to North Ballarat Sports Club for a delicious lunch, followed by a visit to the gardens where the begonias were exquisite.

The day was voted a great success.

Kingston Heath members and friends take in the colour of the Ballarat Begonia Festival.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 19

news Getting into the spirit of the Friendship Day race meeting are, back Ruth Hallett and Nicole Dowia, front Val Clarke, Barbara Dean and Connie Benoiton from the Carrum Downs club.

A day at the races...

A crowd of about 400 Probians enjoyed the hospitality of the Pakenham Racing Club for the annual Probus Friendship Day race meeting on Thursday 8 June. The Probian was there to capture some of the action.

Thomas Bettington from Berwick looks pretty happy with himself, having won a Seniors Membership package in the door prize. 168117

A huge crowd of Probians supported the Friendship Day race meeting at Pakenham.

Friends from Mt Eliza - Pamela Gray, Glenys Vinton and Beryl Vogwell.

20 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

Helen Teder and Margaret Hagedron from the Waverley Gardens club check out the form at the Probus Friendship Day race meeting. 168117

news Some of the action on the track - Australia’s newest.

Probus Association of Victoria president Joan Vogels OAM draws the winner of the door prize.

Probians on the lookout for a winner!

Barbara Dean from Carrum Downs.

Bryan Harper and Liane Davis from Berwick Central.

Margaret Hudson and Adri Godfrey from the Berwick Central club.

Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 21

news

At home to special care - just the best GWEN ‘Pat’ Purcell describes herself as a “happy soul” who is proud that she can live at home with the help of Karingal St Laurence Aged Community Care specialists.

Pat struggles to stand for long periods of time due to ongoing health issues, and would be unable to live at home without assistance.

Karingal St Laurence staff members including Jenny McInerney make Pat’s life easier, from making her bed to preparing meals.

“I can’t stand for any length of time as my knees go from underneath me and I almost fall over, but I’m managing with my carers and they’re just lovely, they really are,” Pat said.

“They do my shopping every fortnight because I can’t walk to do it with them,” she said.

“They come every morning to help me get dressed because of my osteoporosis. I can’t get my arms up to get my clothes on.

“They make my bed because I can’t get around to make it, they’re wonderful, really.”

Pat was determined to stay at home despite her health concerns, and employed Karingal St Laurence’s services through an Australian Government funded Home Care Package.

She said staff like Jenny empowered her to continue living in the comforts of her home.

“I’ve told Jenny, don’t try and put me in any of those places because I’m not going,” Pat said.

“Jenny, she’s very good to me. Anything I need she does get me, she gives me advice and I take it most of the time.

“She’s very good - not a bad old stick!”

Home Care Packages are tailored to the individual and aim to help people stay at home as long as possible by providing the money needed to purchase relevant services.

Jenny said the packages were about giving individuals choice about how they want to be cared for.

“The packages need to be tailored to the individual because it is about the individual,” she said.

“It’s about their needs being met, not those of the case manager or any individual service provider. Everyone’s needs are different, everyone’s insights as to what they feel is important, too, and that needs to be respected.”

Jenny said helping clients like Pat make her job special.

“What I love about my job is the ability to interact with people who have lived their lives and are still living it,” she said.

“They have fabulous stories to tell.

It’s about being able to support them to continue their lives as they wish to do so.”

Karingal St Laurence offers Aged Community Care services throughout Western Victoria, Geelong and South Australia.

For more information, call 1300 558 368 or visit care.stlaurence.org.au to view more of Pat and Jenny’s story.

Gwen ‘Pat’ Purcell describes herself as a happy soul, thanks to the care of people like Jenny McInerney.

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news

Keep on truckin’ THE Probus Club of Donvale Hill enjoyed a guided tour at Kenworth Trucks.

Upon arrival at the reception area, the club name and the visitors’ names were all displayed on a large video screen.

All then had to sign the waiver agreement, after which high-visibility vests, safety glasses and VIP name tags were issued.

The guide, Brian, has retired from Kenworth but now comes back to conduct these tours.

His background was as a mechanic but he progressed to a supervisor level so his knowledge of the plant was excellent.

The first stop was in a part of the office where all the new orders for trucks are processed. Then all moved to the display area where they were invited to climb into the cabin of a very big truck - that was three very large steps from the floor level.

From there the group saw a vehicle’s chassis rails being fitted with all the piping and wiring. These were then placed in a jig to be connected to the cross members and from there the assembly is put on trolleys upside down and backwards.

The reason was obvious later - being upside down makes it easier to fit all the brackets for fuel tanks and suspension parts to be placed by crane, rather than be lifted from underneath. The chassis is then rolled over so that other parts can be fitted.

The next step is to mask (cover) all parts that don’t need painting. Painting is an electrostatic process, where all sides get paint.

This is then baked at about 700C. The whole chassis is moved sideways to the next line (so that it is going the right way) to where

the motor, gear box and drive line are fitted, along with the radiator.

Then all visited the cabin line where here all the parts are placed in a jig and riveted together.

Then to the paint line where most of the assembly is done by people but some is done by two robots.

The painted cabin shell is then fitted out with the dashboard, trim and seats before being fitted to the chassis.

Next wheels are fitted - this is where the truck first touches the ground.

It is then started and driven off the line to be weighed, brakes checked and a “wiggle” test performed to ensure that there are no loose parts.

Finally all visited the QA area for final inspection before dispatch.

The tour was anticipated to take about one and a half hours but all left the plant a bit over two hours later. It was a very interesting tour.

They are currently making 10 trucks a day and every one can be different, which makes this production line unique in the Kenworth world.

- Arch McDonald

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 23

news

Steps to defy winter cold TRAFALGAR and District Probus Club had the first walk of the re-invigorated Walking Group on 10 May, with 17 two-legged participants and four four-legged walkers.

Of the 17 people who attended we did have a catering contingent of two who stayed at the cafe.

Blue Rock Dam was the venue and the day was a cool with overcast skies and no wind so quite a pleasant day for walking.

Members had a break during the walk for coffee and Maggie Attwell provided the group with warm scones complete with jam and cream.

The walk was about four and a half kilometres which was extended by most as they preferred the more picturesque walk back to the car park and re-traced the already walked route, four members walked through the town of Willow Grove and a bush track which followed the road back to the car park.

Fortunately there were no Olympic hopefuls in the group so the pace was quite leisurely, allowing plenty of time and breath for socialising, a nice day with a lovely group of people and pooches.

- Wayne Butterworth

The 30th anniversary celebrations at the Ladies Probus Club of Bellarine.

Dedicated members and long friendships ON 20 February the Ladies Probus Club of Bellarine celebrated its 30th anniversary with morning tea and a special anniversary cake.

Certificates were presented to several members who have been involved with the club for 25 years or more.

Over the 30 years many dedicated committee members have provided an invaluable service to the club and welcomed numerous Bellarine ladies as members.

Those members who are new to the district have found friends who have shared local knowledge and given helpful information regarding local services.

Although the Ladies Club of Bellarine is a comparatively small group we enjoy fostering the Probus vision of Friendship, Fellowship and Fun with a variety of guest speakers and activities and provide a valuable community support network for each other.

The walking group caters for two-legged and four-legged walkers.

Enjoying a cuppa after the walk.

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news

Walkers off to Port Fairy THE Ladies Probus Club of Norfolk’s (Warrnambool) Walking Group had a special day out to Port Fairy.

Group members enjoyed a walk around Griffith Island, taking in the beautiful coastal scenery along the way.

The island is visited each year by the Shearwater birds and they burrow in to the land to nest.

After the walk all enjoyed a lovely lunch at the Limestone Gallery Café, followed by time to browse the shops.

The group walks twice weekly and has been committed for almost 17 years.

Traralgon Combined members on their South Pacific adventure.

Cruising Fiji and the South Pacific A GROUP of 20 members from the Probus Club of Traralgon Combined set sail from Station Pier Melbourne aboard the Golden Princess for a 14-day cruise to Fiji and the South Pacific.

The first few days were taken up sailing to our first destination, which had to be changed due to Cyclone Cook, had we continued on our original course we would have been in the eye of the cyclone.

The captain in his wisdom reversed our itinerary making our first port of call Port Denarau. Here members took the opportunity to stretch their legs by enjoying some shore excursions or just explore the local shops and arcades.

From Port Denarau we sailed to the capital of Fiji, Suva, here we sampled the laid back experience of a tropical paradise, and again our members took advantage of shore excursions and browsing the local shops and places of interest.

Our next port of call was Port Vila and our only wet day with very heavy rain coming down, never the less it didn’t stop some of our hardy members going by water taxi to the city.

Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu and enjoys a tropical climate; the rain was a tropical shower.

The tiny island of Mare was our next stop, noted for its beautiful beach which

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The last port was Noumea and a reminder that our tropical cruise was nearing its end. We took the opportunity to stretch our sea legs by taking in as many sights as possible either by taking a shore excursion or by walking.

We arrived back in Melbourne glad that we had the opportunity to see the beauty of these tropical islands and meet the friendly natives; we are now looking forward to our next cruise.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 25

news

Members visit the Great Stupa MEMBERS of the Probus Club of Boort and District recently visited the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion at Myers Flat near Bendigo.

Visitors are most welcome to view this incredible construction, which on completion will be 50 metres (164

feet) square at its base and nearly 50 metres high.

It is a sacred Buddhist monument which, when finished in 100 years, will make it the largest Stupa in the Western world. In these days of world turmoil, we could all learn much from the following:

A PRECIOUS HUMAN LIFE Every day, think as you wake up, Today I am fortunate to have woken up, I am alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it, I am going to use all of my energies to develop myself to expand my heart out to others, to achieve enlightenment for the benefit of all beings, I am going to have kind thoughts towards others, I am not going to get angry, or think badly about others I am going to benefit others as much as I can” - His Holiness the 4th Dalai

Easy way to increase aged pension funds SINCE 1 January there have been changes to the Centrelink Aged Pension that has caused many members to see a reduction in the benefits they receive each fortnight.

The Government has decreased the maximum limits for your assets and income that you are allowed to have to continue to receive the maximum benefits.

It has achieved this by increasing the penalty for exceeding the asset test threshold from $1.50 per thousand to $3 per thousand in excess.

Did you know that one of the easiest ways to increase your benefits is to make sure that Centrelink has the correct valuations for all of your declared assets and income.

Our members have been offered the opportunity from the Assistance Network to do a free review (normally valued at $97) to compare assets and income to what Centrelink has on file.

If the Assistance Network find errors in the valuations of assets and income it can act on your behalf with Centrelink and have your pension benefits increased.

The Assistance Network is here to help take away the stress of dealing with Centrelink.

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Contact the Assistance Network on 1300 PAIN FREE (1300 724 637) or visit www.theassistancenetwork.com. au.

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26 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

news

New approach for new, retiring life A commitment to support those in retirement spurred a fresh approach to housing from Sterling New Life.

Established by the team which developed the Armstrong Jones Property Group in the 1970s, Ascot Australia in the 1980s and Settlers Retirement Villages in the 1990s, Sterling New Life is drawing on a wealth of knowledge to solve senior housing issues in an ageing Australia.

Sterling understands that retirees have most of their wealth tied up in their home or have debt secured against their home, leaving few options for seniors to downsize effectively in the area they call home to free up enough capital to enjoy their retirement.

The Sterling New Life property solution allows seniors to secure a home in a suburb of their choosing at a lower entry price than the market place with no ongoing weekly fees.

Through its fund management experience, Sterling is able to offer its seniors a property by the way of a Sterling New Life Lease at a cost of about 60 per cent of its market value.

The cost of the lease is invested in Sterling’s registered managed investment fund from which the monthly distribution pays the rent due under the lease, which can be for a term of up to 40 years.

When the senior wishes to move, they simply give notice and their investment in the Sterling fund is redeemed for its face value at that time.

The Sterling New Life Lease is designed to give seniors their own home, investment security, more funds in the pocket and their choice of location which is not in

property, reduce annual costs, eliminate debt, freeing up capital and preserving their investment.

Sterling prides itself on having no weekly or exit fees, refurbishment costs, building insurance, council or water rates.

Retirees Jean and Norm Clegg tried living in a retirement village but decided it was not for them.

Having learned about Sterling New Life’s concept, the couple decided to pursue it further.

“For us, it was a godsend, we have a long-term lease on a home which we love,” Mrs Clegg said.

“Our neighbour and good friend from our previous village did the same and now we live next door to each other and are so happy.

“I was so suspicious about the concept, but Sterling New Life has been great to work with and done everything promised.

“Everything was explained about the legalities and now we are free to use our savings to travel and really enjoy our latter years.

“If we go before the year lease is up our money goes to our estate.

“For us it was a win-win situation and I could not recommend Sterling New Life enough.”

Retirees Jean and Norm Clegg haven’t looked back. a retirement village. The Sterling Group currently manages more than $800 million of residential property.

The concept has been embraced by seniors because they can enjoy the benefits of downsizing to a desired

Sterling Life leases are now available in Victoria and more information can be obtained by calling a New Life team member on (03) 9982 2822 or by visiting the website www.sterlingnewlife.com.au/ Victoria.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 27

news

Sweet smell of success ALTHOUGH Warratina Lavender Farm started out as a hobby in the early 1990s it has gone through a metamorphosis involving a steep learning curve and development of a popular tourist destination with large numbers of both local, national and overseas clientele.

The last four years have been particularly busy due to the introduction of out-of-season exhibitions on the farm.

These exhibitions have a dual purpose.

Not only do they encourage visitors to the farm to visit the event out-of-season but the visitors also nearly always visit the tea rooms, sometimes purchasing product.

The exhibitions are always held in aid of a charity either local community eg Country Fire Authority or fund-raising for cancer research. This is a great way

to benefit both parties.

The exhibitions which now are held annually include: Patchwork Quilt Exhibition held in May for the local fire authority.

Tea Cosy Exhibition for cancer research held in July.

Wood Working Wonders in September for the local fire authority.

Art Show held for the local art society.

Open Garden Weekend at end of November celebrating the beginning of the lavender season and assisting the local fire authority.

Warratina has become more widely known, this being attributed to several actions: Wider clientele base through social

media and a bimonthly newsletter.

Membership at local, state and national tourism bodies.

Participation and attendance at field days, flower shows and trade shows.

It is worth noting that the clientele to the tea rooms has increased largely due to the quality of the food all of which is prepared and cooked on the farm. We pride ourselves on our home cooking and the public respond to their satisfaction via social media.

The gift shop is also kept fully equipped with our wide range of products.

These products are also available online through our online shop a method of buying often preferred by younger buyers and also clients unable to visit the farm due to location.

· ·

· · · · ·

·

The most recent and exciting progress at Warratina has been our liaising and marketing with our Chinese agent with many of Warratina’s products being marketed into China. For us this is an immensely exciting development. Early in 2014 a formal launch of Warratina’s Dream Time Bear and “new” Guo bear was held at the farm with dignitaries from national, state and local tourism, political representation from state and federal offices and also Chinese Consular staff, media and tourism.

This has been a fantastic opportunity for Warratina to go global. The name Warratina has been globally trade-marked for protection.

The lavender experience has opened many doors to not only people but also business ventures.

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Flying Emirates into Athens. 15 days touring

Flying Cathay Pacific into Vancouver. 12 day tour

Greece including a 4 day cruise of the Greek

of western Canada & the Rockies. 8 day cruise

Islands. 3 day Dubai stopover including Abu

of Alaska’s Inside Passage. 3 days Hong Kong.

Dhabi tour.

16 Day Tour

24 Day Tour

Dep. Nov 2

Flying Emitates into Cairo. 15 day Egypt tour including a 4 day Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan. 3 days Dubai including a tour to Abu

MYANMAR (BURMA) $4580

2 Week Tour

Dep. Nov 6

Flying Thai into Rangoon plus 3 flights within Burma. 12 day Burma tour by coach, plane & boat. 2 nights Bangkok.

NEW ZEALAND $4845

16 Day Tour

Dep. Nov 21

Flying Air NZ into Christchurch & out of Auckland. 16 day coach tour of NZ, including 4 cruises and the Transalpine rail trip.

Dep. Sep 18

VIETNAM & CAMBODIA ADVENTURE $4765

20 Day Tour

Dhabi. 4-5 star luxury accommodation.

INDIA TOUR 3 Week Tour

$5655

Dep. Sep 28

Flying Singapore Airlines into Hanoi & out of Siem Reap plus 2 flights within Vietnam. 19 day Vietnam tour “off the beaten track”. 4 day Cambodia tour with Angkor Wat.

THAILAND & CHIANG MAI FLORAL FESTIVAL $3290 Flying

2 Week Tour Thai

into

Bangkok

Dep. Jan 31 plus

a

flight

within Thailand. 4 days Chiang Mai for their spectacular Floral Festival, 2 days River Kwai 4day coach tour of northern Thailand, 2 nights in beach resort on the Gulf of Siam.

MACLEAY VALLEY TRAVEL Pty Ltd Phone Toll Free 1800-810-809. We Take any Stress out of Travel

“Have you thought of arranging your own private conducted group overseas tour?

Macleay Valley Travel has arranged successful Probus group tours.

Minimum of 10 tour participants.”

The price listed mainly include return air fares from Melbourne & Sydney, good twin share accom, many meals, all transfers & transport, tipping, Australian tour leader & local tour guides.

33 Smith Street, Kempsey 2440 28 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

Email: info@macleayvalleytravel.com

Website: www.macleayvalleytravel.com

12352545-DJ26-17

For more information or bookings contact:

news

Leave a legacy for your pet Vets&Pets David Herman, Lort Smith CEO IN THE past few weeks, I noticed a story in the news about a dog who had been given up for adoption in the United States.

The video of the dog looking heartbroken as his owners left him in a shelter appeared on a number of news broadcasts as well as going viral on the internet.

Looking at the video, I can see why it was so compelling - the dog appears to display genuine grief.

But some of the commentary around his surrender left me feeling slightly uneasy.

There were suggestions that his owners dumped him, didn’t care or were in some way bad

people for giving him up.

I know from personal experience that it is impossible to judge people in this situation, and that at Lort Smith we know people make the often heartbreaking decision to surrender a pet for any number of reasons.

Three of the main reasons people give when they choose to surrender their pets to Lort Smith are moving interstate or overseas, unaffordable financial costs or that their landlord won’t let them have a pet at home.

Another common reason for surrendering a pet is when people are moving into aged care facilities, which can be especially upsetting for owners and their pets.

People in these situations who are forced to give up a much-loved pet are often devastated, and go through a grieving process not unlike when a pet passes away.

We recently had a small dog named Max admitted to the hospital at Lort Smith, who had suffered terrible injuries after being attacked by a larger, vicious dog.

Max required a leg amputation and eye removal - complicated procedures which cost a lot of money.

His owner simply could not afford the thousands of dollars required, and made the painful choice to give him up instead.

Now Max is getting the medical attention he needs and will get a second chance - a happy ending from a hard decision.

It is very rare for people to give up their pet on a whim or because they don’t care about it.

Although no matter the reason, we’ll still accept the task of finding a new home for any animal in a non-judgemental way.

Part of being a responsible

pet owner is being aware of what’s best for your animal at all times, and being willing to make hard decisions should the situation arise.

One of the most important times to be prepared for hard decisions is when you consider what happens to your pet when you pass away.

No one likes to think about these things, but just as it’s prudent to consider other aspects of your estate, you should think about what will happen to your pet.

Pets are a much loved part of many families, giving so much love and companionship.

Surprisingly, though, very few people think about what will happen to their pet if they pass away before their pet does.

Some people ask a trusted family member or friend to care for their pet, but not everyone has that option.

Something people can consider is the Lort Smith Pet Legacy Program, where we find a new home for animals, and provide for all their medical needs for the rest of the animal’s life.

That means we cover all their veterinary care, medication, vaccinations and any required prescription foods at no charge to the new owner.

We accept cats, dogs, guinea pigs, rabbits, cage birds, rats, mice, tortoises and ferrets, and can even take pets from anywhere in Australia.

To register your pet in the Pet Legacy Program, you must include specific wording in your will and a minimum bequest of $5000 for each pet registered.

Call us on (03) 9321 7213 or email us at bequests@lortsmith. com for more information about bequests and our Pet Legacy Program.

12354601-ACM26-17

PROBUS CLUBS DEAL 2 Course Luncheon PLUS a free Brewery Tour

Main + Dessert ONLY $23

MENU OPTIONS • Roast • Chicken Snitz or Parma • Steak Sandwich • Grand Ridge Burger • Carbonara • Lasagna • Thai Beef Salad and much much more

Call Katie to personalise your experie 0429 980 244 nce katie@grand -ridge .com .au

Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten Free Available

Dessert options made to order Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 29

news

Spots of bother are still an issue be interested in preventing the illness.

Healthy Ageing

Many of my 80-plus year-old patients are rather miffed that they can’t access a subsidised vaccine, but in many cases if they are willing to pay, it would be safe for them to receive it. However, it is important to understand that the vaccine is a “live” vaccine and so for anyone at any age who has compromised immunity it is not recommended and can be dangerous.

Dr Lorraine Baker THE days of “chicken pox parties” for children might be a thing of the past, thanks to advancements in vaccination, but the highly infectious virus (varicella) can still wreak havoc at times.

Some parents used to arrange gatherings with infected children, to ensure their child would catch the virus early and not have to fear it later in life, but for more than a decade, a governmentfunded vaccine for chicken pox has been available to all Australian children at 18 months of age. Despite this, the virus is still causing epidemics in areas where immunisation levels are low.

For those of you who have ever had chicken pox - and that will be many - the memory of the itchy, blistery rash may still be quite strong. For others they may have a memory of severe viral pneumonia - a rare but dangerous complication of chicken pox.

Even those who have been immunised have a small risk of contracting the active infection albeit in a less severe form - so this virus is going to be around for years to come.

The virus stays around in other ways - belonging to the Herpes group of viruses, our immune systems never quite kill it off.

This means that anyone who has suffered chicken pox has a small, usually well-contained store of the virus in certain nerve roots in their bodies. When our immune systems are compromised - tired and rundown for instance - just like cold sores (another, different Herpes virus) the chicken pox virus can “escape” and become active along the pathway of the nerve, causing the very troublesome condition we know as “shingles”. This condition also becomes more common year on year as we age.

Shingles refers to the rash

of “chicken pox” blisters which appear in a patch of skin reached by the affected nerve.

Annoyingly, the nerve fibres affected cause a marked feeling of pain and discomfort in the area affected (often called herpetic neuralgia). Once the blisters have healed, the pain can remain (called post-herpetic neuralgia) and in some unfortunate people the pain can persist for weeks or months.

Occasionally the shingles affects one eye. This can be a very serious issue when blisters affect the cornea (the windowlike surface of the eye) and if not managed effectively, scarring of the cornea can occur, affecting vision.

Fortunately nowadays, there are treatments that can be given when the rash first appears which can limit the severity of the episode and the risk of significant neuralgia.

Even better, for those who are certain they have had chicken pox, there is now a vaccine against shingles (you need a different vaccine to prevent chicken pox).

The Commonwealth Government has funded this for 70-79 year olds (a group recognised as at risk due to age, but where there is little question of the long-term effectiveness and safety of the vaccine), but at about $200 for a private vaccine for the rest of us, this will not be affordable for all people who may

If you are aged 70 to 79 please discuss this vaccine with your GP. Although the illness is not life threatening it can cause significant disruption to your life, especially if you are a carer for a spouse or grandchildren.

On a final note, some people think you can catch shingles itself, but this is not so. However, the blisters of shingles do contain the chicken pox virus. If someone who has never suffered chicken pox or been vaccinated comes into contact with the blisters, then they risk developing full blown chicken pox. So do be careful if you are unsure of your own immunity to chicken pox, and don’t have direct physical contact with someone who has shingles. * Dr Lorraine Baker is a GP from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs and President of AMA Victoria.

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12351506-CB26-17

30 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

WHEN it comes to health, many women are great at caring for others but often put themselves last. Now it’s time for women to put themselves first.

Jean Hailes for Women’s Health will be helping women make their health a priority during Women’s Health Week 2017 (4-8 September). For women, the health of those you love starts with you.

By investing more time in ourselves, we’re better able to look after the ones we love and care about.

Across five days, Women’s Health Week will be online and on-the-ground, helping women make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Women across Australia will learn more about their health and talk about issues they might not usually discuss. Free events, articles, videos, podcasts, recipes, tools and much more will be supported by a range of experts to help make women’s health a priority.

We are encouraging clubs and community groups to get their members involved in our online event as well as considering hosting their own. Events can

be anything from a breakfast, morning/ afternoon tea, to evening events and may include guest speakers, presentations or just the opportunity to get women together to talk about their health and wellbeing. Visit www.womenshealthweek. com.au for a free event guide full of handy hints, ideas and support.

“Women usually put the needs of their family ahead of themselves, but staying healthy in mind and body is good for the whole community. Women’s Health Week is a chance for women to start prioritising their health, for everyone’s benefit,” says Jean Hailes Executive Director Janet Michelmore AO. Last year, 23,000 people participated in Women’s Health Week events across Australia, with almost half in rural and regional areas. Join thousands of women across Australia and get rid of that elephant in the room that prevents many women from talking about health issues.

Sign up today at womenshealthweek. com.au and consider hosting an event.

news

Toilet seat solves problems for the arthritis sufferers THE Bidet Shop customer Mabel suffers with arthritis and a painful back condition but has found a bidet has made the everyday task a much simpler.

“It’s marvellous! I’ve always wanted a ‘paperless’ bidet in my bathroom and I wish I found it years ago!”

Mabel said.

“The bidet simply replaced the existing toilet seat and automatically cleaned without toilet paper.

“The friendly staff explained that the bidet toilet seat has many health benefits as well as the comfort factors of a heated seat and other features,” she said.

The bidet can be used in two simple steps.

Press the bottom/feminine wash button and the bidet provides a stream of warm water to clean thoroughly.

Then with just the push of another button, warm air gently dries without the need for toilet paper.

Mabel said that although The Bidet Shop offered to send out a brochure pack, she decided to order a bidet straight away.

Well, it arrived a few days later. She installed the seat herself easily and as she had

Shindig - pleasure or pain?

My Word Laurie Barber

Making life easier. been told, it fitted perfectly on her original toilet bowl.

“It is the best investment I have made in my personal health and hygiene in years and no longer finds going to the toilet an issue.”

“Give it a go!” she said.

“I did and I couldn’t be happier.”

For more information or to purchase, call The Bidet Shop on (03) 9081 0789.

Vic Probian readers may qualify to have their bidet fully funded.

Please call to find out how.

A FRIEND said recently he was going to a shindig.

He wasn’t going to have an argument with somebody - or at least I don’t think he was. He was going to a party, one of those occasions that start out with a good time and sometimes end in a quarrel, or worse.

This is one of those words that reminded me of my school days. I hadn’t heard it for years.

When I was a young boy I always thought of it as a word that was made up, but I have since discovered that most if not all dictionaries include it.

The word goes back, in print, to at least 1871.

Much later it came to represent a violent quarrel.

But the word shindig seems to have had a troubled past. The dictionaries say it is of “uncertain origin”, but influenced to some extent by shindy.

Some old dictionaries say shindy means a blow on the shins, which doesn’t help much.

Opinions differ about the start of shindig.

But shindig in its early days represented a country dance or a lively gathering of any kind.

The word was first used, in print, in 1871. In September of that year B. Harte commented in Atlantic Monthly that a Puritan meeting was “no Pike County shindig”.

I gathered that he did not find anything enjoyable in going to a Puritan meeting.

Later shindig was defined as “a dance or party”.

But in 1956 an air defence exercise was called “one of those NATO shindigs”.

Reader’s Digest describes it as a merry party, probably a variation of shindy…

Then we come to shindy.

In 1961 author Eric Partridge defined a shindy as “a violent quarrel, a tremendous fuss”.

Then in 1977 E Crispin in Glimpses of Moon said “they’d kick up a shindig naturally, but it was always their husbands they were furious with”.

It can even mean a Scottish game resembling hockey, starting about 1771.

Incidentally, the word shin has a lot of meanings.

It can mean the front of the human leg, the lower part of a leg

of beef, or the striking of a person over the shins, to borrow money, the sharp slope of a hill, a tree, a dog, a religion or some people who live in Kashmir.

It even refers to the plural of shoe, along with several other meanings.

I wonder of shindig can have any resemblance to knees up.

If you’re old enough, you might remember the song called Knees Up Mother Brown.

My memory tells me that the knees were continually raised while the words of the song were in progress.

It was the sort of party you didn’t tell anyone about, in case they misunderstood.

But a wild party, or one not so wild, was called a knees up.

I was never allowed go to such a party, so I’m guessing what went on.

Ask your mother.

But it was even sung at football matches, so it mustn’t have been too bad.

As for party - these days it always seems to represent a joyous gathering, but it simply means a group of people Now I remember that my friend who said he was going to a shindig - the comment at the start of this column - made his comment at the club. He was probably going home to the missus and did not know what fate would await him when he arrived.

12354320-LB26-17

FRIENDSHIP CLUB Village Baxter Day Respite Centre has been operating for over 25 years. Our programs are designed to stimulate social and recreational skills for the older members of our community.

We promote independence and re-enablement Funded under the Commonwealth Home Support Program

DID YOU KNOW?

ABOUT VILLAGE BAXTER

• Village Baxter has been providing Home and Community Care Services in the Mornington Peninsula area for over 20years • We have been an Approved Provider of Homecare Packages for over 10 years • Our Daycentre / Friendship Club has been operating for 25 years • We take the time to understand your requirements and ind the right carer for you • From the provision of a single service tailored to meet a speciic requirement, through to the development of a complete package of services • Our care staff are fully trained, professional, skilled & most of all caring • You could be eligible for a Government Subsidised Homecare Package, to enable you to remain living independently in your own home • You can visit My Aged Care at www.myagedcare.gov.au • Or phone My Aged Care Contact Centre on 1800 200 422 For more information on the services provided by Village Baxter Community Care you can call us on 5971 6308

Village Baxter is a Not for Proit Aged Care Facility set on 75 acres of landscaped bushland. We provide Independent Living, Residential Aged Care and Community Care Services for the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula areas. The Village has been operating since 1973 and The Daycentre opened in 1992.

We provide quality care in a group setting which we aim to individualise so that all of our members have a wonderful time when they are at the club. Our members book in with us on a weekly basis, so making friends is part of the fun.

We specialise in programs for those suffering dementia or other memory related illnesses, physically frail, dependent, socially isolated or who are Culturally and Linguistically diverse. The centre is staffed by three professional carers, some of who speak a second language, at each session and is supported by volunteer services to provide a stimulating program designed to enhance the opportunities for each member.

To be referred to become a member of our Friendship Club you must contact My Aged Care, which is a National Contact Centre for all Aged Care services.

We are funded through the Commonwealth Home Support Program – Social Support Groups.

LOCATION AND OPERATING TIMES: The Friendship Club is located within the Village Baxter Retirement Village at: 8 Robinsons Road Frankston – Entrance 2 We operate the Daycentre - Monday to Saturday - 9:00am to 4:00pm Phone: 5971 6372

Instrument of Change:

> Group tours are available for booking Call us for more information 8344 5270

VISIONS OF THE G U I TA R I N T H E E A R LY 2 0T H C E N T U RY Until 31 August 2017 Free entry. Open every day but Saturday 12–4pm Grainger Museum, Gate 13, Royal Parade, Parkville 12344720-CB16-17

Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 31

travel feature Probus members off for a day trip.

Take the trouble out of club trips IS YOUR Probus Club group seeking ideas for its next day trip, short trip or annual trip away?

Daytripper Tours and Charters is a family owned and operated company that loves travel, people and being part of a community.

Daytripper provides a fun, relaxing, friendly service. It is happy to discuss Probus group requirements for the next travel experience.

With experience and knowledge of senior travel requirements, Daytripper Tours and Charters can provide endless day trip options and extended trip ideas to meet your budget.

All this can be fully customised to suit Probus groups’ requirements - relaxing, stairs, toilets, all meals and entertainment are taken into account.

Day trips can depart from a specific club or suburb anywhere in Victoria.

We pride ourselves on providing a comfortable, spacious and luxurious 29 seater coach that some say “it’s like sitting in my big comfy armchair at home�.

Daytripper has extended trip options in its comfy coach or for those looking for a fly/fly option, it can do that too.

Check out The Victorian Probian publication or the website of upcoming tours.

Do you have ideas or plans for 2018?

Small group? Not a problem!

Take advantage of stress-free, doorto-door pick-up and return on all the fully escorted extended trips (coach and fly/fly).

Single travellers are welcome and for those who are willing to share, Daytripper will help to find a share person.

Daytripper will take care of everything do put your feet up, sit back, relax and enjoy knowing someone else is doing all the work for you or your group.

For further information, please call (03) 5976 3831 or email enquiries to info@ daytripper.com.au.

Behind the news desk at Channel 7.

We look forward to seeing you on your next adventure.

&25$*8/$& +286( +,6725,& +20(67($'

Support tomorrow’s leaders today

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12354431-CB26-17

32 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

Your donation, bequest or membership to the Foundation will help young Victorians to continue to learn the values and principles of good citizenship well into the future.

12344730-HM16-17

&RUDJXODF +RXVH WKLV PDJQLILFHQW EOXHVWRQH 0DQVLRQ EXLOW LQ IHDWXULQJ RULJLQDO IL[WXUHV DQG ILWWLQJV RI WKH SHULRG VLWXDWHG RYHU VTXDUHV RI OLYLQJ VSDFH 9LVLWRUV FDQ H[SORUH WKH JUDQG OLYLQJ URRPV EHGURRPV FHOODU VHUYDQWV TXDUWHUV &RDFK KRXVH 6WDEOHV DQG H[SDQVLYH JDUGHQV ZKLOVW 6KDU\Q VKDUHV LW¡V KLVWRU\

The Victorian Scout Foundation raises funds to support the work and long term goals of Scouts Victoria and as such helps look after the education of 18,000 young people.

Director, Victorian Scout Foundation 8543 9800 or foundation@vicscouts.asn.au 152 Forster Road, Mount Waverley 3146 www.scoutsvictoria.com.au

TOUR BOX HILL TOWN HALL Take a guided free tour of Box Hill Town Hall and learn its secrets, surprises and history.

Community groups, school groups and individuals are all welcome to learn more about the workings of this iconic building.

Phone 9262 6251 to enquire about tour availability and times. www.boxhilltownhall 1022 Whitehorse Road, Box Hill Proudly managed by the City of Whitehorse.

12344726-CB16-17

travel feature

Margaret River’s a ‘must-do’ THERE’S a wealth of great food, premium wine, breathtaking beaches and forests hidden away just three hours south of Perth.

Lincoln McLeod of McLeod Tours shares his ‘must-do’ Margaret River experiences.

Marvel at the spectacular coastline There’s over 140km of incredible beaches, famous surf breaks, cliffs and breathtaking bays between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin; Margaret River sits slightly inland, roughly in the middle. Walk the famous 134km Cape to Cape Track, drive into seaside towns such as Prevelly and Gnarabup, or take a scenic helicopter ride with my cousin Jackson.

Sunsets are pretty special here. Pack a bottle of wine and a picnic and pop down to Surfers Point to watch the sun set over the ocean.

Swim at pristine beaches The Indian Ocean is cooler than the Pacific, so expect a refreshing dip. I love Contos Beach, Redgate Beach and Hamelin Bay for their clean sand and sparkling waters, hence we visit these three beaches on our three-day tours.

Hamelin Bay holds an extra treat you’ll meet friendly sting rays and see the famous ruins of the burnt jetty.

Taste Australia’s Finest Cabernet and Chardonnay Margaret River produces a mere

Wine tasting and Amelia Park. anniversary; their vines were the first planted in the region.

Indulge in delicious local produce There’s a thriving artisan food scene here; it must be the combination of great agriculture and clever, creative people.

Margaret River Farmers Market runs Saturday mornings and you’ll find an abundance of local produce, fresh pastries, organic wine, quality meats, cheese and more. Visit Margaret River Chocolate Company, Margaret River Cheese Company, Vasse

3.5 per cent of Australia’s wine, but 20 per cent of our premium stock. Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay are the flagship varietals, plus most wineries make a fruity Sauvignon Blanc Semillon blend. Tastings are free at most of the 95 winery cellar doors in the region; the hard part is choosing where to go!

We visit a variety of wineries; Redgate Winery, Watershed, Brookwood, Fermoy Estate and Thompson Estate just to name a few. Vasse Felix recently celebrated their 50-year

Virgin, Margaret River Wood Fired Bread and Millers Ice Creamery.

Sample craft beers There are currently 10 boutique breweries dotted through out the Margaret River region. Many of them having won international beer awards. A few of my personal favourites are the Cowaramup Pilsner, Eagle Bay Kolsch & the Brewhouse Indian Pale Ale. Walk the longest wooden jetty in the world Busselton is set on the pristine waters of Geographe Bay and it’s home to a 1.8km jetty. Why is it

so long? Timber was shipped from Busselton many moons ago, and the jetty had to stretch out into water deep enough for the boats.

Take a stroll or catch the train to the Underwater Observatory at the end, where coral grows on the timber pylons.

Cave and Lighthouse Tours Step back in time with a little maritime history with a tour of either lighthouse; Naturaliste in the north, or Leeuwin in the south. You might see a whale if you’re lucky. Also worthwhile is a visit to one of our majestic caves; four are open to the public out of the 100 or so caves in the cape to cape region.

Ngilgi, Lake, Mammoth and Jewel Cave are all unique and spectacular. Lake Cave is possibly our all-rounder favourite for its amazing forest setting, dramatic doline entrance and crystal formations. Mammoth Cave has some incredible megafauna fossils also worth seeing.

About McLeod Tours The award-winning McLeod Tours team have delighted guests for over 30 years. They come highly recommended by over 590 people who rate them “excellent” on Tripadvisor.

McLeod Tours offers a selection of day tours, plus a 3 Day Margaret River Tour from Perth. Call (08) 9757 2747 or visit www.mcleodtours.com.au for more information.

the Bellarine by Coach A GUIDED TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

• Stunning scenic views of the bay around The Esplanade • Historical commentary on the discovery of the Bellarine Peninsula by European Settlers • Navigational tour of the entrance to Port Phillip Bay • Portarlington – Indented Heads – St Leonards – Queenscliff – Pt Lonsdale After a relaxing journey from Melbourne, be taken away on this historical 3.5 hour tour through the quaint seaside villages of the Bellarine Peninsula. Beginning in Portarlington you will travel along the scenic Esplanade and Swan Bay whilst enjoying an on-board commentary to Queenscliff. After a leisurely lunch* stop, continue onwards to view the notorious rip between Point Lonsdale and Point Nepean, said to be one of the most treacherous stretches of water in the world, before heading back to Portarlington with time to explore before your ferry departure. * lunch in Queenscliff at your own cost

A DAY OF FUN FOR MORE THAN ONE he perfect outing for your club Step back in time to an era of elegance and decadence, into the Golden Age of rail travel, when the journey was just as important as the destination

Departing Portarlington every Tuesday & Thursday BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL

Itinerary

Time

Portarlington

12:00 pm

The Esplanade

12:15 pm

Queenscliff

12:30 pm

Returning to Portarlington by

2:30 pm

The Esplanade

PORTARLINGTON

$10.00pp

St Leonards

he Authentic Steam Railway Linking Castlemaine and Maldon

Price includes coach tour with commentary

Join us with a group booking on one of our regular Wednesday or Sunday train services.

Book online to avoid missing out: christiansbus.com.au/tours

Or why not get a few clubs together and charter your own train for the day.

Queensclif

Our friendly volunteer staf will ensure you have a memorable day out.

Point Lonsdale

First Class and Economy Class options available.

CHRISTIAN’S BUS CO tours@christiansbus.com.au Ph: 5255 5800 @christiansbusco @christians_bus_co

www.VGR.com.au

www.portphillipferries.com.au

Please review us on Google & Trip Advisor 12354127-CB26-17

info@vgr.com.au 12343998-LN16-17

Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 33

travel feature

Exhibition explores the mysteries A new exhibition of the ABC and BBC series The Doctor Blake Mysteries, designed by the show’s own production designer Carrie Kennedy and curated by the Gold Museum, will run at Sovereign Hill’s Gold Museum in Ballarat until 3 September.

From vintage costuming worn in the show to Dr Blake’s 1937 Blakemobile, the exhibition titled Doctor Blake’s Ballarat, will celebrate the international success of the hit television series, set against a backdrop of Ballarat’s most visited locations.

“The Doctor Blake Mysteries has been an international success story, shown in more than 130 countries, and has helped to put Ballarat on the world stage,” said Jeremy Johnson, CEO of Sovereign Hill.

“The exhibition offers visitors a real glimpse into the world of this beloved television series.”

The exhibition, presented in conjunction with December Media, will consist of two parts.

Cast and Crew provides a sneak peek behind the camera of everyone involved in bringing the series to life, and On Location will look at the Ballarat locations involved in the show.

Cast and Crew will provide a glimpse into the people and props involved in the production design, cinematography, hair and make-up, and costume design.

Featuring 11 of the Doctor Blake costumes as well as images, fabric swatches, set sketches and props, this section of the exhibition will show how the series comes to life.

On Location looks at how the show uses historical Ballarat locations to set the story, how the show has showcased Ballarat to the world, and how locals have embraced the series.

Props and photography will showcase several Ballarat locations including Lake Wendouree, the Ballarat Art Gallery, Ballarat East Fire Station, the Old Colonist’s Club, as well as events like the Begonia Festival.

Other exhibition highlights will include: A recreated lounge room from the Doctor Blake series, including Doctor Blake’s highly recognised lounge suite.

A dressing table used by one of the characters in an episode.

Doctor Blake’s desk, where visitors can sit behind the desk for a photo.

Doctor Blake’s ‘Blakemobile’ - a 1937 Coventry Standard automobile that will welcome visitors at the Gold Museum entrance.

Highlighting the unique way that the series showcases Ballarat, the exhibition will provide a history lesson of what Ballarat was like during the Doctor Blake era.

In a unique Meet the Makers series of public events, visitors will also be able to meet the creative team behind the Dr Blake series.

Series producer George Adams as well as some of the writers and costume

·

· · ·

designers will provide a real insight into the magic of creating a successful television show.

Visitors will also be able to see interviews with crewmembers, historical footage of Ballarat locations, and iconic scenes from the show.

“This exhibition will allow visitors to truly immerse themselves into the exciting world of Dr Blake.

“Fans of the series are going to love the exhibition but so too will anyone interested in fashion, the creative television process, as well as touring groups,” Jeremy said.

The Doctor Blake exhibition will run from now until 3 September at Sovereign Hill’s Gold Museum.

The Doctor Blake Mysteries series, starring Craig McLachlan as police surgeon Dr Lucien Blake and Nadine Garner as his housekeeper Jean, has been an incredible success, with the fifth season returning to the ABC later this year.

12345372-LN16-17

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34 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

P/C

PROBIAN

those in greatest need?

travel feature

Knitted tram yarn A visit to Bendigo Tramways, Australia’s Cultural Tourism Attraction of the Year, is guaranteed to brighten up any winter’s day.

It is here that visitors will find the world’s first yarn bombed tram trundling down the streets of the iconic Gold Rush town.

Decorated inside and out with handmade crochet bunting, seat covers, blankets and cushions, the yarn bombed tram is a feast for the eyes.

The tram is decorated with an explosion of colours, shapes and textures by an anonymous group of needling ninjas which has been brightening up the streets of Bendigo with yarn bomb creations for the past six years.

Like a well-tailored suit, the moving masterpiece is a testament to the craftsmanship that has been poured into its design and creation.

The best way to take in the wide streetscapes and grand architecture of

Bendigo is curled up aboard the yarn bomb tram, wrapped in one of the hand-made blankets while listening to the entertaining stories about the city founded on one of the world’s richest goldfields.

The yarn bombed tram forms part of the Vintage Talking Tram fleet which allows travellers to hop on or off throughout the city to explore the many attractions, shopping and dining facilities that Bendigo has to offer.

Tram tickets are valid for two consecutive days and also include a ride aboard the fascinating Anzac Centenary Tram.

Through stories of bravery, resilience and courage in the face of adversity, the Anzac Centenary Tram explores the impact of World War I on the local Bendigo community.

The Yarn Bombed Tram will be on the tracks throughout winter.

Phone the Bendigo Tramways Depot on (03) 5442 2821 to confirm the tram’s exact schedule.

The world’s first yarn-bombed tram.

Beautiful riverside cabins at the Big 4.

Visitors invited as friends WHEN considering the next holiday or group trip destination, travellers should take the chance to visit popular family holiday region Deniliquin.

What most people don’t know is that Deniliquin has more sunshine hours each year than Queensland’s Gold Coast!

Deniliquin is an easy and pleasurable 3.5 hour drive from Melbourne and only 50 minutes from Echuca. The best place to stay at is at the award winning BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park which is nestled exclusively alongside the banks of the Edward River.

The park has been a favourite with Probian groups over the years due to its easy-to-get-to location, regional beauty and exceptional customer service.

The great selection of affordable yet luxurious cabins, villas and caravan sites contribute to it being the ideal place for families, friends and travellers.

The best bit about staying at the park is that visitors and their groups can swim, boat, fish, relax, and enjoy each other’s company, all without leaving the park.

All cabins and villas are high quality, self-contained and offer everything needed for an enjoyable getaway.

The grassed sites include drivethrough and en suites and are suitable for all caravans, campervans, motorhomes and campers. The riverfront camping area is spectacular!

The park has dog friendly sites

outside of peak and high season at the manager’s discretion, just ask prior to arrival.

In the winter, against the stunning natural backdrop of river gums, visitors can keep warm by the crackle of a camp fire and toast marshmallows until they’re ready to melt in the mouth.

The modern amenities and facilities at BIG Deni are second-to-none and include a pontoon boat for hire (weather and river level dependent), a huge camp kitchen, outdoor barbecues, a conference room, which is great for movie nights, giant chess, mini golf, two swimming pools which includes one solar heated, a heated splash water park, tennis and basketball, and jumping pillow.

The town of Deniliquin is well known

as the event capital of the Murray Region and hosts the world famous Deni Ute Muster, the Cruising Nationals and the Deniliquin Fishing Classic.

Also popular is bushwalking, birdwatching, canoeing and fishing, especially with anglers hoping to catch the magnificent Murray cod.

By basing themselves at BIG4 Deni, visitors can choose to do as much or as little as they want.

There’s plenty of outdoor space to explore while taking in the beautiful scenery of the regional New South Wales and Victorian countryside.

BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park has a saying that is proven true - ‘come as strangers, leave as friends’.

6 3,5,7 7 5$9(/ 7 2856 3K

Reaching over 40,500 Probians and their partners throughout greater Melbourne and Victoria wide.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The Victorian Probian 35

news

R

FREE

T EVERY MEMBER OF ALL AFFILIATED PROBUS CLUBS WITHIN VICTORIA. TO Official newsletter of the Probus Association of Victoria Inc. A9835 O

50 3 , 8 ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA 2 IES -PROBUS ALEXANDRA - ALEXANDRA LADIES - ALTONA - ALTONA LADIES P ALTONA NORTH - ANDERSONS INLET - ARARAT LADIES - ARARAT CO ARTHURS SEAT - ASHBURTON - ASPENDALE MORDIALLOC - AUBURN

5

TIM PER ES YEAR COMBINED - AVOCA - BACCHUS MARSH - BACCHUS MARSH LADIES - BALCOMBE - BALLARAT - BALCOMBE BALCOMBE LADIES BALLARAT CENTRAL BALLARAT LADIES- BALLARAT BAIRNSDALE - BALCOME LADIES BALLARAT CENTRAL BALLARAT LADIES EAST LADIES - BALLARAT EUREKA BALLARAT GOLDFIELDS - BALLARAT, NEW GENERATION - BALLARAT NORTH - BALLARAT SOUTH - BALLARAT WEST - BALNARRING LADIES - BALWYN CENTRAL - BANNOCKBURN BANYULE COMBINED - BARWON VALLEY BELMONT - BAYSIDE - BEACONSFIELD COMBINED - BEAUFORT COMBINED - BEAUMARIS - BEAUMARIS BAY - BELGRAVE - BELLARINE LADIES - BELMONT - BELMONT COMBINED - BELMONT LADIES - BELMONT BARWON COMBINED - BENDIGO - BENDIGO LADIES - BENTLEIGH - BENTLEIGH EAST - BENTLEIGH LADIES - BERWICK CENTRAL - BERWICK COMBINED - BERWICK LADIES - BERWICK VILLAGE COMBINED - BITTERN COMBINED - BLACKBURN BELLBIRD COMBINED - BLACKBURN CENTRAL - BLACKBURN LAKE LADIES - BLACKBURN SOUTH LADIES - BLACKBURN SOUTH COMBINED - BLACKBURN SOUTH INALA - BOORT & DISTRICT - BOX HILL NORTH COMBINED - BOX HILL SOUTH - BRIGHT - BRIGHTON - BRIGHTON BEACH - BRIGHTON CENTRAL COMBINED - BRIGHTON EAST - BRIGHTON MIDDLE - BULLEEN TEMPLESTOWE - BULLEEN HEIGHTS - BUNINYONG - BUNYIP GARFIELD - BURWOOD COMBINED-BURWOOD EAST-BROADFORD-CARLTON PARKVILLE-CARRUM DOWNS-CASEY COMBINED - CERBERUS COMBINED - CHARLTON - CHATHAM - CHELSEA LADIES - CHELSEA - CHELTENHAM LADIES CHISHOLM COMBINED - CLAYTON LADIES - CLIFTON SPRINGS/DRYSDALE - CLUNES - COBDEN - COBRAM BAROOGA - COHUNA - COLAC - COLAC OTWAY - COAL CREEK COMBINED - CORINELLA - COWES COMBINED - CRANBOURNE LADIES - CRESWICK - LAKES ENTRANCE - CUNNINGHAME - DANDENONG COMBINED - DANDENONG LADIES DAYLESFORD - DEER PARK COMBINED - DIAMOND CREEK - DINGLEY CENTRAL - DINGLEY VILLAGE - DONCASTER - DONCASTER CENTRAL - DONCASTER EAST - DONCASTER MAIN ROAD - DONALD - DONVALE - DONVALE CENTRAL - DONVALE HILL - DONVALE TUNSTALL - DONVIEW HEIGHTS - DOREEN - DROMANA BAY COMBINED - DROMANA VALLEY - DROUIN - DROUIN HILLS - DRYSDALE LADIES - DUNOLLY & DISTRICT - EAGLEHAWK - EAST MALVERN COMB. - ECHUCA MOAMA & DISTRICTS - ECHUCA MOAMA - TWIN RIVERS - EDITHVALE - EMERALD DISTRICT - EMERALD LADIES - ESSENDON - ESSENDON CENTRAL - FAWKNER MERLYNSTON - FLINDERS - FOOTSCRAY FOREST HILL STRATHDON - FOSTER & DISTRICT - FRANKSTON - FRANKSTON LADIES - GEELONG EAST COMBINED - GEELONG CENTRAL - GEELONG WEST LADIES - GEELONG NORTHERN COMBINED - GISBORNE - GLADSTONE PARK COMBINED - GLEN EIRA COMBINED - GLENROY CENTRAL LADIES - GLENROY - GLENROY LADIES - GLEN WAVERLEY LADIES - GLEN WAVERLEY - GOLDEN SQUARE - GREENSBOROUGH - GREENWOOD - GRIMSHAW - GROVEDALE GROVEDALE EAST LADIES - HASTINGS - HAMLYN HEIGHTS - HAMPTON - HAWTHORN LADIES - HAWTHORN GLEN COMB. - HEATHMONT LADIES - HIGHTON LADIES - HIGHTON - HOPETOUN COMBINED - HOPPERS CROSSING LADIES - HOPPERS CROSSING MEN - HORSHAM COMBINED - HORSHAM MENS - HORSHAM EAST LADIES - INVERLOCH - JACKSON’S CREEK COMBINED - KANGAROO FLAT - KANIVA - KARDINIA COMBINED - KEILOR EAST - KEILOR KERANG - KEW - KILMORE DISTRICTS - KINGSBURY - KINGSTON HEATH LADIES - KNOX COMBINED - KNOXFIELD LADIES - KORUMBURRA - KYNETON - LAKE COLAC - LANGWARRIN LADIES - LATROBE LADIES - LEONGATHA - LEOPOLD - LEOPOLD GATEWAY - LILYDALE LADIES - LOWER TEMPLESTOWE COMBINED - MAFFRA LADIES MAFFRA - MALING COMBINED - MALVERN LADIES - MANNINGHAM COMBINED - MARYBOROUGH - MARYBOROUGH LADIES - MARYVALE - McCRAE - MAROONDAH COMBINED - MELBOURNE - MELBOURNE NORTH - MELTON VALLEY LADIES - MENTONE - MILDURA SOUTH - MINYIP COMBINED - MITCHAM NUNAWADING - MITCHAM ORCHARDS - MITCHELL RIVER (BAIRNSDALE) - MOE - MONASH COMBINED - MONASH CENTRAL COMBINED - MONBULK COMBINED - MONT ALBERT - MONTMORENCY COMBINED - MONTMORENCY PETRIE PARK - MONTROSE & DISTRICT - MOONEE VALLEY LADIES - MOORABBIN LADIES - MOOROOLBARK COMBINED - MOOROOPNA - MORNINGTON COMBINED - MORNINGTON LADIES - MORWELL & DISTRICT - MT. ELIZA VILLAGE LADIES - MT. ELIZA COMBINED - MT. ELIZA CENTRAL - MT.MARTHA MENS - MOUNT MARTHA LADIES - MOUNT MARTHA VALLEY - MT. MARTHA VILLAGE LADIES - MOUNT WAVERLEY COMBINED - MURTOA COMBINED - NARRE WARREN COMBINED - NEWBOROUGH NEWCOMB COMBINED - NHILL - NIDDRIE LADIES - NILLUMBIK - NOBLE PARK COMBINED - NORTH BALWYN HEIGHTS - NOTTING HILL COMBINED - NUMURKAH LADIES - OAKLEIGH LADIES - OCEAN GROVE - OCEAN GROVE COMBINED - OCEAN GROVE ON BARWON - ORBOST - ORMOND LADIES - OSBORNE LADIES - OUYEN & DISTRICT - PAKENHAM - PAKENHAM EAST - PARKDALE - PARKTONE - PASCOE VALE - PASCOE VALE CENTRAL - PATTERSON LAKES COMBINED - PAYNESVILLE - PENINSULA - PHILLIP ISLAND - PINEWOOD - PLENTY COMBINED - POINT LONSDALE - PORTARLINGTON - PORTLAND LADIES - PORTLAND BAY LADIES - PORT MELBOURNE - PRESTON - RED CLIFFS RED HILL - RESERVOIR COMBINED - RESERVOIR WEST - RICKETTS POINT - RINGWOOD CLOCKTOWER - RINGWOOD EAST LADIES - ROCHESTER - ROMSEY LANCEFIELD - ROSANNA COMBINED - ROSANNA LADIES - ROSEBUD MEN'S - ROSEBUD LADIES - RYE LADIES - RYE WHITECLIFFS - SAFETY BEACH - SANCTUARY LAKES POINT COOK SANDBELT LADIES - SANDOWN COMBINED - SAN REMO - SANDY BAY COMBINED - SEAFORD - SEAHOLME - SEVILLE COMBINED - SEYMOUR - SOMERS LADIES - SOMERVILLE - SORRENTO - SOUTH MORANG - SOUTHERN PENINSULA - SPRING GULLY COMBINED - STAWELL GOLD REEF LADIES - ST.ARNAUD - ST.ARNAUD KARA KARA - ST.LEONARDS - ST.HELENA - ST.KILDA -STRATHDALE -STRATHFIELDSAYE - STRATHMORE COMBINED - STUDFIELD WANTIRNA COMBINED - SUNBURY COMBINED - SUNBURY - SURREY HILLS MENS - SWAN BAY LADIES - SWAN HILL - SYNDAL LADIES - SYNDAL COMBINED - SYNDAL - TATURA - TAYLORS LAKES - TEMPLESTOWE - TEMPLESTOWE LADIES TEMPLESTOWE CENTRAL COMB. - TIMBOON & DISTRICT - TORQUAY. - TORQUAY LADIES - TORQUAY SURFCOAST - TRAFALGAR & DISTRICT - TRARALGON COMBINED - TRARALGON LADIES - TRARALGON - TUNSTALL COMBINED - UPPER YARRA - VERMONT SOUTH - WANTIRNA HEIGHTS - WARRACKNABEAL LADIES - WARRAGUL BAW BAW WARRAGUL RANGES - WARRAGUL TARAGO - WARRAGUL - WARRANDYTE & PARK ORCHARDS - WARRNAMBOOL HOPKINS LADIES - WARRINGAL COMBINED - WAURN PONDS - WATSONIA - WAVERLEY - WAVERLEY CENTRAL LADIES -- WAVERLEY - WAVERLEY - WAVERLEY - WENDOUREE - WEST - WAVERLEY - WAVERLEY CITY LADIES - WENDOUREE - WEST FOOTSCRAYLADIES LADIES-WAVERLEYGARDENS GARDENSCOMBINED LADIES LADIES CITY LADIES FOOTSCRAY WERRIBEE - WERRIBEE LADIES - WHEELERS HILL. - WHEELERS HILL COMBINED - WHEELERS HILL LADIES - WHITE HILLS - WHITEHORSE COMBINED - WHITTLESEA - WILLIAMSTOWN - WILLIAMSTOWN LADIES - WILLIAMSTOWN PORT GELLIBRAND - WINCHELSEA - WONTHAGGI & DISTRICT. - WOODEND & DISTRICT. - WOODLANDS, SUNBURY LADIES - WOORAYL - WYCHEPROOF COMBINED - WYNDHAM LADIES - YARRAM - YEA

REACHING

OVER

40,500

DELI

BY C VERED OUR IER

PROBIANS AND THEIR PARTNERS THROUGHOUT GREATER MELBOURNE AND VICTORIA WIDE ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES CONTACT: Graeme 0412 596 900 Barry Michael 0408 082 921 Dellis Ian 0412 198 382

0408 990 200 0412 596 901 12344825-CB16-17

36 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

History written in every stone A very interesting tour was attended by 35 members of the Probus Club of Donvale Hill on Tuesday 9 May. On arrival at St Paul’s Cathedral via the Great West Door all were divided into three groups to be shown around by volunteer guides.

The cathedral is the seat of the Anglican Primate in Australia and services are held each day for the people of Melbourne and Victoria. Each Saturday there is a morning service for the Chinese Mandarin worshippers in our community.

Approximately 11,000 people can be accommodated.

The early Christian settlers of the colony worshipped publicly on the present site from 1836-1848. The Church of England then built St Paul’s Church which was consecrated in 1852. This bluestone Church was used until 1885 when, due to the population growth and wealth during the gold rush in Victoria, it was deemed inadequate and was therefore demolished.

The present-day cathedral was designed by the English revival architect William Butterfield (then aged 63) in the neo-Gothic style. Butterfield’s plans were supervised from England as he never travelled to Victoria or Australia. The foundation stone was laid in 1880 and after many delays the cathedral was consecrated in 1891.

Some 40 years later the original tower design was revised and three spires were constructed. The central spire is the second highest in the Anglican Church at 320 feet, with Salisbury Cathedral, UK, being the highest at 404 feet.

Two-tone stone for the cathedral was favoured by Butterfield; the sandstone came from Waurn Ponds and the grey stone from Malmsbury, with Belgian red grained granite being used for some internal flooring. The cathedral has beautiful encaustic flooring tiles made by Maw and Co. in Shropshire, UK, that have borne the feet of worshippers over the years showing very little wear. The striking colours of the floor tiles and the fleur-de-lis like pattern can be seen in many different variations.

The stained-glass windows were made

by Clayton and Bell in England, and then packed in molasses to prevent breakages while on the sea journey to Melbourne.

There are a total of 67 windows with stained-glass panels of 2 or 3 within each window. Three windows were commissioned in Australia in 2005. Windows on the east side of the building depict the life of

Christ and on the west side, the life of St Paul. High above the windows, the vaulted ceiling is lined with New Zealand kauri and reaches about 25 metres.

Within the cathedral are many plaques dedicated to notable people and worshippers. One such beautiful mosaic of St Paul (Murano glass) was donated to the cathedral. A finely carved sideboard of English kings is based on the screen at York Minster, UK. The pipe organ was built by T.C. Lewis and Co. in England and has four manuals and 3500 pipes. Consecrated during a service in 1891, it was restored in 1990 by organ builders, Harrison and Harrison, of Durham, UK. Music plays an important role in the cathedral with both religious and secular music performances held regularly. The traditional men and boys’ choir of the cathedral have led choral weekday and Sunday services since 1888. The cathedral will soon become the only cathedral in the southern hemisphere with a designated girls’ choir. Eighteen girls from Lowther Hall Anglican Grammar School in Essendon will form the Girls’ Voices of the Cathedral Choir when they make their choral debut later this year.

The elaborately decorated high altar and Reredos are made from Devonshire marble, alabaster and Venetian mosaics. Scenes of The Last Supper and Jesus’ death are shown above the central cross.

Our cathedral guide pointed out many interesting features including the small Chapel of Ascension depicting, in glass mosaics, the ascension of Jesus to heaven; the Brass Lectern featuring an eagle on a sphere, bearing on its back the Holy Bible; the Bishop’s Chair and the Archbishop’s Chair.

Inside the Great West Door, in a position signifying entry into the Christian faith, there is a round Baptismal Font made of Harcourt granite. An Immersion Font, added later in 1912, was built in memory of Field Flowers Goe, the third Bishop of Melbourne.

During the tour, the guides gave an overview of the cathedral and encouraged everyone to explore further.

Our thanks to Ken Falconer OAM for arranging the visit to this iconic landmark in Melbourne.

- Beverley McArthur

news

Well in tune with guitar tour

Club members engrossed listening to the tour guide.

Linda Kitchen, tour guide and a worker, explaining the technical aspects of making a guitar.

Club members on tour.

At present 40 per cent of business involves exporting overseas and the company is hoping to continue increasing this.

Countries contributing to this growth include New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, the United States, as well as other countries throughout Asia.

The Convent Daylesford PROBUS MEMBERS: Experience the famous Convent Gallery for $4 per person. Or enjoy Devonshire tea, tea/coffee and self-guided tour for $14.90 per person

CAFE FINE ART MUSEUM PRIVATE TOURS BAR & LOUNGE SHOPING HAVEN ORIGINAL CHAPEL EIGHT GALLERIES 6-ACRES OF GARDENS

Overall, an extremely interesting guided tour.

- Robert Milne

PROBUS GROUPS: DEVONSHIRE TEA + TOUR Enjoy the Convent’s famous scones jam & cream, coffee/tea, gallery entry, a private tour & 10% off at the gift shop for $14.90 per person LUNCH + TOUR Select a meal from our extensive group meal for lunch including tea/coffee, gallery entry and a private tour $21.90 per person

12342255-HM16-17

ON 20 April 2017 members from the Probus Club of Donvale Hill met at the Maton Guitar Factory, Box Hill, for a guided tour.

The guide for the tour happened to be Linda Kitchen who was the daughter of Bill May, the founder of the factory 71 years ago. The factory was originally based in Thornbury.

The name Maton was derived from two words ‘may’ and ‘tone’, and is still a 100 per cent family owned business by both Linda and Neville Kitchen, Bill’s son-in-law.

Bill was a jazz musician, woodwork teacher and a luthier when he decided in the early 1940s to build his first guitar.

Shortly after this, Bill established a custom guitar manufacturing and repair business that was known as Maton Stringed Instruments and Repairs.

This was so successful that that in March 1946, Bill was able to convince his older brother Reg to join as a fulltime guitar maker which led to the Maton musical instrument company being born.

The success of this Australian icon is largely due to the inspiration and creativity Bill May possessed and was able to reproduce in the instruments he made.

This led to Maton Guitar Factory becoming known world-wide as Australia’s longest running and most successful guitar manufacturer.

Bill pioneered the use of many Australian species in guitar manufacturing and is regarded by many Australian luthiers as the foundation father of the industry.

His contribution has been recognised with an induction into the Australian Music Association (AMA) Hall of Fame.

Maton Guitars specialises in creating superb guitars from Australian timbers such as blackwood, Queensland maple, Bunya, and satin box etc. while still meeting quality craftsmanship guidelines that were set more than 60 years ago.

Maton manufactures its own pickups which is considered essential to having control over the sound of its acoustic instruments within the internal amplification systems.

A further innovation occurred over the past few years when, in conjunction with Tommy Emmanuel, the AMPIC system was developed.

The AMPIC system is in both Maton’s high-end models, and of late in some of Maton’s custom models.

Maton is currently consolidating its growth through increased shipment to export markets.

TERMS & CONDITIONS: All groups must be pre-booked Prices are valid Mon-Fri only 2017 prices and packages are subject to change Not to be used in conjuction with other offers

TWO-COURSE LUNCH + TOUR Select a two-course meal from our menu for lunch including tea/coffee, gallery entry and a private tour for $25.50 per person

7 DALY ST DAYLESFORD VIC 3460 | info@theconvent.com.au | www.theconvent.com.au | 5348 3211 Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 37

club news

Broadford Combined Probus members having fun on the Merimbula trip.

NEWCOMBE The Combined Probus Club of Newcombe has celebrated its 14th birthday.

President Margaret Condie helped Lee Wirth cut the birthday cake made by Lee at the club’s February meeting, which was followed by a bring-a-plate to share lunch.

The club looks forward to another year of fun, fellowship and friendship.

ROSEBUD LADIES A Mystery Trip in May took Rosebud Ladies Probus members to Her Majesty’s Theatre for what was a memorable conducted tour and film of the history and previous owners before it was purchased by Mike Walsh and restored to its former glory.

The tour included different levels in the theatre as well as back stage to see the props and costumes for the Aladdin production.

The wall of fame signed by the many actors that had performed in productions over the years was very impressive.

Portraits of Dame Nellie Melba and Gladys Moncrief look down to make members aware of the significance of this wonderful place.

Lunch in The Maj Café completed a very enjoyable day.

BROADFORD COMBINED Recently 41 members of Broadford Combined Probus had a happy and informative five-day trip to Merimbula on the Sapphire Coast in New South Wales, travelling with Around Australia coaches and staying at Merimbula Gardens.

A highlight of the trip was a cruise with Cat Balou on Twofold Bay Eden, especially as some time was spent watching a Brydes whale, the first whale seen for six months.

At the Eden Killer Whale Museum, volunteer Susie Sarah gave everyone a background to killer whales, especially Old Tom, whose skeleton is the major attraction and who played a large part in Eden history.

While there members learnt that when

Ringwood Clock Tower Probians enjoying Inverloch. the whale was seen during the cruise, the museum had been alerted and sounded the whale siren. This made everyone feel quite important!

A day in Central Tilba, founded in 1895 and classified as an unusual mountain village by the National Trust, satisfied those who were interested in old and unique buildings, and those who enjoyed a variety of delicious cheeses.

For oyster lovers Wheelers Oyster Farm was a special treat.

The ice-box on the coach was well laden with these goodies on the return trip.

ST ARNAUD

SUNBURY

RINGWOOD CLOCKTOWER

The Probus Club of Sunbury had a big turnout for its AGM back in March, where members posed for this photo, before heading back indoors for a well-earned cuppa.

Sunbury has a constant 75 members and conducts a monthly tour (normally all on public transport) to museums or any other interesting place and a monthly walk of between four to six kilometres.

The walk can be anywhere from Bendigo to Carrum Downs and the train journeys are always much anticipated.

On a near perfect weekend 35 Probians from the Ringwood ClockTower Probus Club enjoyed a fun-filled time with the Caravan and Camping Group at Inverloch.

The weekend kicked off Friday night with a noisy happy hour in the camp kitchen followed by an equally noisy dinner at the Esplanade Hotel (colloquially known as the Espy at Invy).

Saturday morning saw many participants enjoying a nature walk along one of the local attractions, Screw Creek, followed by a trek into town in search of the best barista, while the afternoon saw them roaming the shops, out and about sightseeing, or lazing around the van soaking up the fabulous weather.

Happy hour in the camp kitchen (noisy again!) set the scene for an enjoyable evening, followed by a barbecue and a game ‘50 things to do once in a lifetime’.

It’s amazing the number of interesting and fun things we have done in our lives.

TRARALGON COMBINED A group of 47 members of The Probus Club of Traralgon Combined travelled to Frankston to see the sand sculptures.

For many it was their first experience viewing sand sculptures.

The entire group enjoyed these wonderful works of art more especially as they were able to view them up close.

As the theme this year was Land of Imagination, the sculptures brought back memories of nursery rhymes and story books of their own childhood and again memories of their children’s early years.

Lunch was at the Frankston RSL and then back on the coach for their trip home, stopping on the way for afternoon tea at Darnum. A very enjoyable day was had by all.

New president Flo Fulton was installed at the March AGM for the St Arnaud Combined Probus Club.

In April the club celebrated its 16th birthday.

Outings officer Brian Wharton organised for 28 Probians from five district clubs to share an enjoyable five-day trip.

This included Mildura, Wentworth, Broken Hill, Silverton and Irymple highlights. Some Probians boarded the coach as strangers to begin with, but arrived home as friends.

PLENTY Coffee, Crime and Culture in Carlton was the theme of the recent guided walking tour undertaken by members of the Combined Probus Club of Plenty.

Over the last couple of years (thanks to Gwen), the club has been able to participate in guided walks around several different inner city areas.

Newcombe Probus Club president Margaret Condie helps Lee Wirth cut the birthday cake.

Guide Jill has given members excellent insight into the development of various parts of our wonderful city, Melbourne - how it grew and evolved from the early days of white settlement to the bustling, affluent place it has become today.

Congratulations are also extended to the Plenty members who competed in this year’s Victorian Probus Bowls Association Day at Heathmont.

All members enjoyed the day and three of the four teams experienced success. One team won their section, the second were runners-up and the other, best first game.

Their next competition is in the Probus NE Annual Bowls day at Kingsbury. Good luck Plenty Combined.

SEAFORD On 16 March 16 we were all treated to the annual club barbecue in the lovely garden of our gracious member Irene Whitely. It was great to see the guys manning the barbecues and the ladies provided the yummy salads. We had a great turnout with 43 members attending.

Several members went to the Frankston Arts Centre on 5 May to see the onewoman show Shirley Valentine. Mandi Lodge played Shirley and thoroughly enthralled her audience. It was an excellent show.

The annual trip to Bright was attended by some of our members and all reported a great holiday with warm hospitality from their hosts.

On 16 May, we embarked on a wonderful Mystery Bus Trip under the leadership of our intrepid tour leader Ruth. We went to Lysterfield Lake for morning tea, then on to Mont de Lancey homestead for lunch and a tour of the property. Next it was on to William Ricketts Sanctuary to see the fascinating sculpture garden before returning home exhausted but content. Well done Ruth.

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38 The Victorian Probian – Saturday, 24 June, 2017

news

New life members for Noble Park DON and Ann Amos were made life members at the Probus Club of Noble Park’s annual meeting.

Immediate past president Ann Eastaway also welcomed new member Sorrell D’Silva.

Immediate past president Ann Eastaway with newly inducted member Sorrell D Silva at the club s annual meeting.

Members who were presented with their 10-year pins.

Hospitality officer Mary Rothery assisted

by Ken Shannon making morning tea.

Ann Eastaway with her certificate and Ann Amos, the newly elected life member along with her husband Don (not shown).

Ann Eastaway presents flowers to Connie Walker in appreciation for her many years auditing the club s books.

A friendly competition as 32 teams take to the green MONDAY 24 April was everything we could wish for at the Rochester Probus Club’s 19th Annual Bowls Day. The threatened rain did not arrive, but the welcome warm sunshine did.

Even more we were again delighted to play host to 32 teams from Probus Clubs in our region of Victoria and at the same time privileged to have Beryl Vogwell with us on the day.

Beryl also joined in one of our teams and we believe she enjoyed it very much.

Our catering ladies provided a special morning tea to greet the teams on their arrival. At lunch time a two-course meal was enjoyed by everyone and prepared them for the afternoon competition.

The greens which were groomed by the bowls club greenkeeper was first class and enjoyed by everyone.

The team triumphant on the day was our very own Rochester Probus Club who won all three games. Despite the thrill of winning, the most pleasing feature to come out of this event, it produced something very special to the Probus movement, Friendship, Fellowship and fun. We are so lucky to have made so many friends and we hope to add to this on Monday 23 April next year.

- Glyn Francis, event organiser.

Action on the greens PROBUS Bowls Tournament held at Heathmont Bowls Club on 15 March.

A very enjoyable day was had by 84 bowlers at Heathmont with a spit roast lunch after the first game of 15 ends.

Overall winners for the day were the team from Plenty No 4: B. Boxall skip, V. Everest 3rd, R. Stokes 2nd. Runners-up were also a team from Plenty. Best first game winners another team from Plenty and best second game winners a team from Heathmont.

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Saturday, 24 June, 2017 – The Victorian Probian 39