The Victorian
April-May 2022 Vol 39 No 2
FREE
TO EVERY MEMBER OF ALL AFFILIATED
PROBUS CLUBS WITHIN VICTORIA
Top of the morning Jan Rain, Sue Mansfield and John Lambert were among a merry band of the Probus Club of St Leonards members celebrating St Patrick’s day with breakfast on the beach on 17 March. ■ Story page 3
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Morning tea in the outdoor room under brilliant sunshine.
Pictures: Sue O’Shea
Garden decoration.
A great escape to the country EXCITEDLY, 32 members from Combined Probus Club of Belmont climbed into cars and travelled under sunny blue skies to the horse and cattle farm of Naomi Benney and Michael Bysouth somewhere between Anakie and Meredith on 9 February. Each member brought their own eats for a delightful morning tea in the outdoor eating area on Southernby Park. They were so appreciative of the icy cold water
and glasses, boiling water, mugs, milk, tea and coffee supplied by Naomi and her sister Anne before inspecting the very interesting garden and unusually shaped home. It was spectacular from the front gate driving up the recently landscaped driveway to and through the house. This water-wise arid garden had succulents, natives, roses, irises, bamboos and other hardy species in
a cottage-style setting circling their spectacular round home, whose gigantic central room held so much memorabilia and family pieces. And what an enormous stone fireplace! Themed garden areas included aloes, silver-blue foliage and colour coordinated plantings with many plants having been salvaged or given by friends and family and much memorabilia scattered around artistically arranged amongst the plants.
There were also iron artworks made from things like old railway nails. Afterwards members drove into Meredith to order delicious meals at Rustic Ram Cafe. Unfortunately some meals were rather late. The backyard artwork was also very interesting. A wonderful day. A big thank you to Naomi, and Anne and her mother, our vice president Marie, and to Helen Barry for organising.
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Large stone chimney Marie Benney, Joy Bromley, Pam Wilson, Helen Cawsey.
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2 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
Naomi shares her story with John O’Shea, Judy Williamson, Pam Duthie, Joan and Ron Cashin.
Pam Duthie admires arid garden and use of recycled articles in garden.
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St Pat’s Day beach brekky COVER STORY IT was “Top of the morning” and “Aisling” (A vision, dream, apparition) when a merry band of the Probus Club of St Leonards members celebrated St Patrick’s Day with Brekky on the Beach on 17 March. 2022. It is not clear if there was any green liquid present at breakfast but a game of Finska followed. Now that’s what’s called crossing international borders—Ireland to Finland, in Australia! BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS The Probus Club of St Leonards also celebrated its 24th Birthday on the 22 November, 2021. What better way to celebrate it but to have two nnonagenarian members, Joyce Hicks and Mary Hartigan, cut the cake. Being their first general meeting for a while, there was quite a buzz in the room like honeybees, with members catching up with one another after lockdowns were lifted.
A sea of green for St Patrick’s Day celebrations.
Celebrating St Pat’s day with breakfast on the beach.
The room was abuzz as members caught up on everyone’s news.
Ringwood Clocktower Probus out and about FRESH air and open space have enabled walking enthusiasts in the Ringwood Clocktower Probus Club to continue activities despite the limitations over the past two years. One group “The Walkers” participate in a long walk each week with a break for refreshments. The other group “The Ramblers” takes a leisurely walk for half an hour and finish with morning tea and a long chat. Fortunately, there are many parks and trails in the area so each week brings a new Venue.
president’s message
A warm welcome from our president where 21 assorted club members from Croydon Park Probus Club, Ringwood Clock Tower, Montrose, and Kerrimure, traveled last week, unfortunately we left 10 people behind due to being in isolation from Covid, our Secretary Jane Johnson and her husband being two of them, I am not sure if I am lucky or not as l tested positive the following morning
The President Anne Vick WELCOME EVERYONE Happy reading, l was hoping to have had a great report from Norfolk Island
after arriving home, at least I am home, as over there you haven’t got the luxury’s of internet, mobile phones, and isolating in a motel room cut off from everything isn’t very good. The island is a great place for a holiday and would recommend it, great scenery and history, very well kept and clean, the people are wonderful and full
of information, Hopefully all readers are successfully having full meetings and activities at club level and back to normal, look forward to catching up at our next delegates meeting Yours in friendship Anne Vick President
Life feels good 12479918-JW08-21
Safe, secure and full of the most wonderful people. Staff and residents alike, the people of Greenways Village are caring, supportive and lifelong friendships are ready for the making.
See it for yourself. Come visit, talk to the people who live here. We’re certain you’ll be making new friends in no time.
Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 3
news
The social side of the walking club is equally important.
Morning walks with club THE Combined Probus Club of Wantirna Heights has been able to generally continue its Thursday morning walking group despite the limitations of the government lockdowns over the last two years. Members meet just before 9am in the car park of the Knox Shopping Centre in Wantirna. Due to the closure of car parks for construction zones, they will now meet near the embankment at the north corner of the car park behind the undercover car park at the back of Coles. The walk is generally for about 50 minutes but it can be as short or as long as members like, followed by a drink and chat in the food court of the Centre where there is a range of refreshments. Due to the ongoing major renovations, there are very few people
Many rivers to cross
Umbrellas at the ready for walks in the rain. entering Knox City from that car park and very few in the Food Court area. Members are most welcome any Thursday, whether for walking or just a coffee and chat. The group walks in all types of weather.
Michael B Halley 24 March 2022
BIG4 WANGARATTA
PAV Committee ‘21/’22 PRESIDENT Anne Vick
CEDARS PARK
Email: president@probusvic.com.au
VICE PRESIDENT Rodney James
Deluxe & Ensuite Cabins Ensuite Sites Shaded Van & Campsites
Email: rodney.james2@icloud.com
SECRETARY Jane Johnson
Caravan & Camp Sites
Email: secretary@probusvic.com.au
Pool & BBQ area
TREASURER Lin Byron
Cabins
Email: lbyron@netspace.net.au
Recreation Room
WEBMASTER Ernie Brigham
Camp Kitchen
Email: webadmin@probusvic.com.au
Festivals & Events
FRIENDSHIP DAYS Joan Vogels OAM Email: joanandlouvogels@bigpond.com
GOLF TOURNAMENT Patrick Danaher 12432810-SG08-20 08-20
Email: p_danaher@optusnet.com.au Phone: 0411 804 635
Send contributed editorial material PO Box 9, Pakenham 3810 or Email: probian@starnewsgroup.com.au
12528292-CG07-22
and Club Notes to Star News Group.
4 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
170 Bowser Rd, North Wangaratta Email: stay@northcedars.com.au Ph 03 5721 5230 www.northcedars.com.au
A COACH load of members from The Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea set out on an adventure to visit a selection of the decorated grain silos in the wheatlands below the Murray River. The first stop was at the Colbinabbin grain silo complex and then onto Rochester and Tongala where a lunch break was taken. As the coach traversed the kilometres, it occurred to the correspondent that the trip was more a reflection on the past and future, rather than simply sightseeing. Swinging off the highway onto the secondary roads, it was noticeable that vineyards have expanded markedly into the broad acre territory, where grain farming had been the staple industry since settlement. Even arable pasture paddocks have had solar panels planted where barley, oats or canola used to have pride of place. Later on we passed many fields where tobacco growing had got the chop-chop. The first indication of the changing face of industry was at Rochester, where the once dominant Murray Goulburn milk factor lays dormant. At Tongala, and other towns, where dairying was once big came a reminder that brown coal briquettes, which provided energy and heating, are no longer produced. Closed companies, that were the major employers, now stand as sentinels to how regional communities have had major upheavals. Even Carnation milk that came from contented cows is no longer produced at Merrigum. The silo mural expansion has brought many towns back into notice, and the artful decoration has extended beyond grain handling facilities and into local shopping centres. At Rochester a mural in a laneway covers the exploits of retired homicide detective Ron Iddles, and Tongala has many along the main street. Communities have worked hard to fund the painting programs and welcome the influx of tourists, but many look and move on without spending anything in the town. Agriculture depends on rainfall to produce good outturns and tourism revenue is the ‘rain’ that will help small communities. How devastating it must be for a hotel
to have many tourists park in front, visit, photograph the silo and then move on without even being aware that the hotel was there. But back to the tour! One thought to ponder; at Shepparton, a high rise court law facility has replaced the ground level old court house that served the community for eighty or more years. This is the place where the vandal that put graffiti over the professional mural at the Mokoan Rest Area should be brought for justice! So after an exhilarating first day the folks bed down for the night at Bright to wake next day to a bracing morning. The plan had been to take in the sunset atop Mt Hotham, but the weather forecaster brought it to a day trip and an evening enjoying a tremulous thunder storm. Two days of touring around towns close to Bright was quite relaxing with community evening meals and camaraderie. The final run home was via the Eldorado dredge. This reflects a country that was once at the forefront of manufacturing and technology. Four more decorated silos at Tungamah, St James, Devenish and Goorambat, onto Benalla for lunch and a look at street-art, then to the poignant Vietnam Vets Memorial Wall at Seymour, before arriving home safe and well. Each of the silos that were visited tells their own story as a mural with written explanation of the how and why. There are silo murals all over Victoria and nationwide that each relay their own history. It behoves those who can, to go visit and get firsthand knowledge. At St James one mural where the story is “down-down” is about G J Coles who opened a general store in 1910. On the journey we crossed many rivers and learnt things that staying at home would never deliver. So join a local Probus Club and find a new activity to take you forward.
news
Fun and games at Leongatha AFTER many months of postponements due to covid lockdowns during 2021 the much anticipated Leongatha Probus Friendly Games finally happened on 22 November, 2021, and proved to be a highlight of the year. Six teams with six members each had been preparing and practising their marching skills and game preparations since April, and were keen to have some fun together after a year of many restrictions and cancellations. A spokesperson said, “We had our own Queen and torch bearing mascot Gippy Greenthumb to open the Games. Our Queen, founding member Pat West, was
perfectly regal in her official role. Mascot Gippy - our purple koala, member Keith Grey, entered to Give Me A Home Among the Gum Trees, followed by a royal march for the Queen as she was presented to each of the teams by president Josie Dobson, as they formed a guard of honour.“ The teams included the Red Hot Peppers, The Blue Jeans, The Golden Oldies, Greenland, The Purple People Eaters, and The Pink Panthers, all looking fantastic in their coloured outfits, wigs, lycra shorts and all sorts of costumes to match their team colours. To begin the competition, each team marched past our Queen with banners
Golf putting was fiercly contested.
Pink Panthers made a grand entrance.
held high. Points were awarded by our two official judges, Josie Bleeser and Gloria Lahn, resplendent in gowns and blue wigs. Vice president Merilyn Scott was MC for the day and kept the competitors under control. Teams competed in javelin throwing, golf putting, sock/bucket game, quoits, hookey, best joke, speed jigsaw puzzle and finally paper plane throwing. The noise was deafening with cheering and laughing. A special boxed morning tea break allowed members a breather and time to work on their next strategies. Competition was fierce with the Red Hot
Peppers enlisting their own cheer squad. This obviously proved the difference as in the end they were the gold medal winners, Greenlanders - silver medallists and Golden Oldies - bronze. Our Queen awarded the medals and presented prizes to The Best All-Round Competitor - Geoff Birnie and The Best Dressed Competitor - Pauline Kamphuis. The whole day was fantastic for everyone involved and has been a talking point since. It provided an opportunity for new members and old to get to know each other better and have great fun. A reminder to everyone what Probus is all about.
Teams were presented to the Queen.
Royal purple uniforms were popular with the Queen.
PAV Friendship Golf Day 2022 invitation WANTIRNA South Probus Club is proud to have been asked to be organiser of the 2022 Probus Victoria Friendship Golf Day. Despite the challenges of Covid which have forced the cancellation of the event for the past two years, planning is well underway and a great day of golf, lunch and friendship is being organised. The details of the event are: Date: Monday 17 October 2022 (team registration from 7am, shotgun start at 8am). Location: Waterford Valley Golf Course, 161 Bunjil Way, Knoxfield. Cost: $75 per person which includes golf, light breakfast, carvery lunch and player show bag. Golf format: 18 holes, four person Ambrose. Additional information: Motorised carts can be hired ($45 per cart) or you can bring your own. Prizes for winning teams and more. Waterford Valley Golf Course offers a good challenge for all golfers. Its picturesque views of the Dandenong Ranges complement great fairways and ideal greens. But beware the water hazards as they will swallow your ball.
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Conveniently located close to both the Monash Freeway and EastLink, transport shouldn’t be a problem. The event is made possible with the support and financial assistance of our sponsors. These arrangements are being finalised as we go to print but we expect all of our previous partners will be anxious and excited to be involved. Teams can be entered under men, women or mixed and prizes will be awarded in all categories if multiple entries are received for each group type. The winning team also claims the perpetual trophy. As more information becomes available, it will be posted on PAV website at probusvic.com.au Just follow the prompts: Click on Main Menu Select - 2022 Golf Day Information Once bookings are open, the player information sheet and application form will be posted to the website. Please note: in the unfortunate circumstances where government restrictions cause the cancellation of the golf day, a refund of fees will be processed. Any questions should be directed to Paul Owen on 0423 023 112.
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AGAIN!
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2 DAY BENDIGO Including ELVIS PRESLEY EXHIBITION & AWAKEN LIGHT FESTIVAL Sunday 10 – Monday 11 July 2022 Direct from Graceland , this exclusive exhibition never before seen in Australia celebrating the extraordinary life and style of Elvis Presley. “Awaken - Bendigo brought to light festival” an exciting winter event with a spectacular show combining unique sensory, hologram and immersive laser light experiences. Includes: Motel Accommodation -Tickets Graceland Exhibition - All meals Entrance fees/ Guided Tour Cost: $550.00 Per person twin share/double Single supp: $80.00
3 DAY WARRNAMBOOL & WHALES Sunday 7 – Tuesday 9 August 2022 Searoad Ferry Crossing to Queenscliff – Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum to see the Maremma Dogs used to protect the little Penguin colony.
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 5
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Members bound for Metung Liz Cawsey
Group at end of Silt Jetty.
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6 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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the Information Centre. We then drove to Marlo to view the huge delta and mouth of the Snowy River and then to see the old Stony Creek and Wairewa Road Trestle Bridges which formed part of the old railway line from Bairnsdale to Orbost. Continuing on, we briefly visited Nowa Nowa and finally drove to Lake Tyers Beach area. Tonight we enjoyed our last dinner together back at the Metung Tavern. On the final day of our trip we departed Metung and drove to the Port of Sale for a cruise on the Thomson River on the MV Rubeena. It was a very scenic cruise along the canal and into the river system viewing the unique swing bridge designed by pianist Percy Grainger’s father, bird life and the many Aboriginal canoe trees lining the water’s edge. After a quick visit to the Sale art gallery we headed back towards Melbourne, having a picnic lunch at Yinnar. We rejoined the highway at Trafalgar and arrived back at Nellie Melba Retirement Village around 4.40pm after a great trip. Special thanks to Peter Drew, our tour leader, for finally making this trip possible and a special thank you to Chris Grafen for another informative and interesting getaway on the Highland Explorer.
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ELEVEN members from the Monash Combined Probus Club along with nine others were picked up at Nellie Melba Retirement Village and set off for our much awaited trip to Metung following four cancellations over the past two years due to Covid restrictions. Our morning tea stop was at the picturesque Blue Rock Lake, followed by visits to the Cowwarr and Glenmaggie Weirs before stopping at Heyfield for lunch. After a petrol stop and time for a visit in Bairnsdale to St Mary’s Catholic Church with its magnificent painted ceiling in the afternoon, we finally arrived in Metung late afternoon. We settled into our very comfortable cabins at the Metung Holiday Villas, which would be home for the next four nights, before dining at the Metung Tavern. The next morning, after touring the town, we drove out from Johnsonville to the mouth of the Tambo River. We then visited the Blueberry Fields Blueberry Farm on the way to Bruthen for a picnic lunch. From there we drove to Lakes Entrance. The weather was just perfect for enjoying the sights and a stroll across the Cunninghame Arm causeway took us onto the Ninety Mile Beach where many enjoyed a walk along the water’s edge. Dinner on day two was at the Swan Reach Hotel. On day three we drove to Paynesville and boarded the M.V Lady Jodie for a wonderful three hour cruise through McMillan Strait and across Lake Victoria. This cruise took us amid prolific birdlife to Ocean Grange on the Ninety Mile Beach and return via the magnificent homes of the Paynesville Quay. Following a picnic lunch by the waterfront, we crossed by ferry to explore Raymond Island and were fortunate to see the resident koalas, kangaroos and even an echidna. From Eagle Point we drove out along the longest silt jetty in the world. The flow of the Mitchell River into Lake King has, over time, produced the jetty and we were able to drive several kilometres onto the lake to the very end of this peculiar landform. We dined again in the evening at the Swan Reach Hotel. On day four we drove to Buchan and then to the junction of the Snowy and Buchan Rivers at Balley Hooley. Lunch was at Orbost in the Forest Park where we visited the Slab Hut which is now
news
Members who have served the club.
The cake that marked the club’s anniversary.
Celebrating 25 years THE 4 March annual general meeting of the Monash Combined Probus Club marked the 25th anniversary of the formation of the club in March 1997. Following the AGM and congratulatory comments from Monash Mayor Cr Stuart James, the meeting adjourned for morning tea and a slice of the birthday cake which was cut by our second president, Eric Forbes. Thanks to new president Betty Robinson who made the cake and June Wenborn who did a great job with the icing. Photos were taken of the 19 foundation members who are still members of the club and also 16 past presidents who were present at the meeting. Other functions during the following week included a lunch at the Mulgrave Country Club and a dinner at the Glen Waverley RSL.
More members who have served the club.
Cutting the anniversary cake.
Blue suede shoes ... back on the road to Bendigo HIDDEN in the wardrobe behind all the clutter, one pair of blue suede shoes. On Wednesday, 23 March these shoes made a journey to Bendigo to visit the Elvis exhibition in the Bendigo Arts Centre. These shoes where joined by many other members from the East Malvern Combined Club’s March outing. They tapped their way to the Southern Cross station to travel by train using the seniors free travel concession. This was a beautiful early Autumn day which enhanced the ambience of the day out. Once inside the exhibition space members were delighted with the range of Elvis paraphernalia - costumes, posters, guitar, MG car, Harley Davidson bike and video clips of the Elvis story. There was a dance space in one room for all those wishing to dance to or stand and listen to the famous voice of Elvis. After viewing the exhibition, we had lunch together at the Italian restaurant across the road from the Gallery. Once sated we started our walk back to the station.
Bendigo residents have adopted Elvis and there were banners, posters and other objects for visitors to purchase in one of the many shops in the Bendigo CBD. On our return journey to Melbourne there was a great exchange of Elvis related details shared among our members.
So, until next time, the blue suede shoes will return to their place in the wardrobe. East Malvern Combined Probus Club meets on the first Wednesday of every month, at the Uniting Church, Serrell Street, East Malvern. For further details about joining our club call 0488 419 314. Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 7
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Silo sightings were welcomed
The slow method of transport gave plenty of time to enjoy views.
Escape to Kangaroo Island All aboard the bus.
A meeting with wildlife.
The views were spectacular.
via Penola where we stopped for morning tea. In a short break some of us managed to shop, others took a walk up and down the main street, and others managed to avail themselves of a perfect opportunity to consume a beer in the conveniently located pub across the road. An outstanding lunch at Keith, a surprise silo viewing at Coonalpyn, then on to Victor Harbor, where the promise of a stay in a hotel managed by Basil Fawlty proved unsubstantiated, and we settled in
for a comfortable stay. Victor Harbor had once been the main port of the South Australian coast, but is now a pretty seaside tourist town. Here we were treated to a museum visit followed by a tramcar ride pulled along the pier to Granite Island by a patient and plodding draft horse named Albert. Time to wander this pretty location then back on the coach for our drive to Cape Jervis where we boarded the ferry for the ultimate prize of Kangaroo Island.
The ferry crossing to Penneshaw was a calm and relaxing 45 minute trip, where many of us embraced the opportunity to wander the deck and take in the sights of the approaching Kangaroo Island. Late afternoon saw us check in to our accommodation at American River for the next three nights and, while enjoying the scenic views at a conveniently placed picnic table over the road and by the beach, a splinter Guinness Appreciation Society (GAS) was born.
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8 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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AFTER two Covid-induced deferments, the Probus Club of Glen Waverley Combined’s trip to Kangaroo Island finally happened in March 2022. Following the devastating bushfires on Kangaroo Island, our club was honoured with a Zoom presentation by the Mayor Michael Pengilly during a lockdown period in September 2020. This generated enthusiasm to plan a trip to the island. With bags packed and a sense of anticipation that had been building for nearly two years, we joined our host Belinda from Group Link Travel and our driver Mark and began our journey towards Kangaroo Island. Our first day saw us make our way towards our overnight accommodation in Hamilton via Narrapumelap Homestead, currently being lovingly restored by owner Kevin, who was more than happy to explain in minute detail each stage of the restoration, together with his determined and extended battle with Heritage Victoria. Early next morning, we were on our way again and heading towards Victor Harbor
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Visit to Rayner’s orchard IT was the season of “mellow fruitfulness” when 18 members of Glen Waverley Ladies Probus Club accompanied by four members from Waverley Gardens and six from Syndal Ladies boarded a coach from Melbourne on the Move and took the journey to Rayner’s Orchard at Woori Yallock for a tractor /train tour of over 40 acres of splendid fruit trees -450 varieties including apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums and other exotic fruits on 10 March. On the tour travellers were allowed to leave the vehicle for tasting and picking. A spokesperson said they ate so much fruit that we could probably have done without the delicious barbecue lunch that was waiting for us when we returned to our pick up point. There was a shop to browse in after lunch and then it was back on our coach for the journey home. The owner told us how hard it has been since covid took the wrecking ball to visitors and tour groups
Probus members explored Rayner’s Orchard. so it was with some satisfaction that we felt that we had in our small way helped a small business. If your club is looking for an outing why not consider Rayner’s Orchard (5964 7654). It is about an hour from Glen Waverley and two hours there is sufficient for the tour and lunch.
Spit roast at Jells Park to start new year
Up close with an Australian Sea Lion. Kangaroo island is a beautiful island with a diverse range of natural features, birds, animals and an abundance of local produce. In our two full days, we tasted wine and honey, ate excellent food, saw frolicking NZ fur seals, yet another painted silo, walked amongst enchanting Australian Sea Lions, were entertained by a wide variety of birds of prey and a magpie who had remarkably been trained to drop litter in a rubbish bin. We also saw koalas, kangaroos, pelicans, black swans and amazing scenery including the iconic rock formations at the appropriately named Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and the beautiful Pennington Bay. Our stay on this enchanting island ended all too quickly and we headed for the ferry to return to Cape Jervis. This time our luck with the weather had run out. The skies were grey, the wind was blowing, the seas were rough and our crossing was far from pleasant. Our anxiety levels were heightened by the hostess wandering up
and down the aisles with cold towels for those of us feeling queasy. No surprise that this crossing seemed to be the last for the day. All aboard our reliable coach once again, and we headed towards Monarto Safari Park for a wonderful afternoon tour of the largest safari experience to exist outside Africa. Here we traded the native Australian animals of KI for many exotic animals including lions, leopards, hyenas, giraffes, deer, rhinoceros, bison, ostrich and the attractive rear ends of the zebra herd. On to Murray Bridge, our destination for the final night where we were treated to champagne and nibbles by Belinda and Mark on banks of the mighty Murray River. The next day saw us load our bags one last time and settle in for the long journey home, stopping for a quick look at our third silo, a pub lunch in Horsham and arriving back exactly on schedule tired, but richer for our experience.
AFTER negotiating the lengthy path to obtaining a permit from Parks Victoria, the Glen Waverly Combined Probus Club scheduled a spit roast at Jells Park to mark the beginning of a new year of face to face activities. MAK’s Catering set up their tent under a big oak tree which was fortuitous as it was over 35 degrees on Friday 21 January and the tree provided shade for the members who started arriving at 5pm with their chairs and drinks in hand. Based on the level of conversation, it was obvious there was lots to catch up on with time passing quickly. It was soon 6pm and time to tuck into the chicken and beef roasts and the five salads with dessert. It was a great way to start the year and the club is hopeful there will be no further restrictions so we can continue to have activities and gatherings face to face in 2022.
Members took advantage of the shady tree.
Catching up was high on the agenda.
Catering options were welcomed.
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 9
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Australia Day park picnic TO start 2022 activities, the Ringwood Clocktower Probus Club held its annual Australia Day picnic at Queen’s Park, Healesville. Although the weather was hot, there was plenty of shade and space for those who wanted to sit back and catch up with friends they had not wseen since face to face meetings were cancelled in 2021.
Ringwood Clocktower Probus Club held its annual Australia Day picnic at Queen’s Park, Healesville.
Knoxfield Ladies Probus AS I sit down to pen this short article, I am reminded that, not too long ago, we were experiencing significant Covid-19 restrictions which allowed us limited mobility within our communities and restricted access to family and friends. Thank goodness modern technology provided us with opportunities to connect with those dear to us via phone calls, Zoom and an ever-increasing range of social media applications. As we greet autumn, and more chilly weather, we will once again be resurrecting our board games, jigsaw puzzles, card games and knitting needles to help pass time productively while engaging our little grey cells in meaningful activity. Wordle seems to be all the rage at the moment. Thankfully, Probus committee meetings are once again able to be held face to face, and a program of guest speakers and outdoor group activities for the coming months is being planned.
Our upcoming guest speaker program for this quarter includes visits from Cliff Hardy to talk on his naval experiences, Nadia Porter to share her life story as a refugee and later migrant to Australia, and John Howell, author of The Only Woman at Gallipoli. At our March meeting, it was great to meet together in a more relaxed, maskfree environment to welcome our new committee and be entertained by the wonderful Frankston Ladies Choir. Life seems to be back on track. Having fun and making connections is so important to our overall wellbeing. As a music buff, I will close with the well-considered words sung by Dame Vera Lyn. “We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when, but I know we’ll meet again some sunny day.” It currently seems that 2022 may provide us with many such opportunities.
Corker of a walk THE Maryborough Probus Walking Group recently took members for a mystery walk. Members were asked to bring a folding chair and drink, and met in Maryborough before driving to Dunolly Railway Station for their walk. They then enjoyed a picnic under the canopy of a 150 year old Cork tree (Quercus Suber).
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Members of the Knoxfield Ladies Probus group relaxing after an enjoyable lunch at the Knox Tavern.
This magnificent tree stands 13 metres tall, with an impressive canopy spread of 22.5 metres.
You could drive past this tree and not realise its majesty which is not revealed until you step inside. It is densely foliaged to ground level, so the area under its canopy is like a natural cathedral, carpeted with a dense layer of cork. On a hot day and after the walk, it was a lovely cool haven for the group to natter and drink. It is believed to have been planted to provide corks for the five nearby local wineries (none of which are still in existence).
10 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Double the fun at Bunjil Place DOUBLE Delicious is a sumptuous storytelling and culinary experience set to grace the Bunjil Place Studio, Narre Warren, from Wednesday 18 May to Saturday 21 May. The flavours and aromas of our favourite dishes wind their way through the deepest recesses of our being, and even the thought of a particular meal or food can transport us back to a pivotal moment in time. Storyteller cooks Valerie Berry, Jennifer Wong, Heather Jeong, Benjamin Law and Raghav Handa share a variety of secrets and tales behind the dishes that prove significant in their lives, accompanied by musician Nicholas Ng. Kim Chi master Heather Jeong recalls meeting her father for the first time at the age of 9. Dancer-choreographer Raghav Handa grapples with the loss of ritual, and how it fits into his contemporary life in Australia. Performer Valerie Berry recalls the shock of moving, as a child, from bustling Manila to outback Ceduna. Writer Benjamin Law tells the hilarious story of growing up in the shadow of the Big Pineapple. Finally, writer and comedian Jennifer Wong recounts the many kinds of sweetness that nourish and heal. Double Delicious has previously had sellout shows at Sydney Festival, Asia TOPA and Oz Asia Festivals. Recommended for audiences aged 12 and above, this show runs for 100 minutes.
A variety of talented cooks and storytellers will delight audiences and tantalise their tastebuds at Double Delicious. Picture: Supplied Tickets are $70 per person and include a taster of each storyteller’s dish. The show will run on Wednesday 18
May and Thursday 19 May at 7.30pm, Friday 20 May at 1pm and 8pm, and Saturday 21 May at 8pm.
For more information or to book tickets, visit bunjilplace.com.au/doubledelicious
WHAT’S ON AT
Double Delicious
Circling Time: Songs & Stories
A Contemporary Asian Australian Performance Production
by Kutcha Edwards
Combining food and theatre with immersive visual and sound design, five storytellers reveal the secrets of dishes that are significant in their lives as they share compelling tales of family, upheaval, loss and legacy. These are salty, sweet, sour and bitter stories from the heart, infused with memory and lived experience. At end of each story, the audience tastes the dish, completing their experience of the story just revealed.
This show is arranged in sequences exploring Kutcha’s life through the themes of Country, Birth, Youth, Politics, Love, Culture, Healing and Hope. Each theme is bathed in individualised colours and enhanced by stunning projections that amplify the poignancy of Kutcha’s original songs and stories.
Double Delicious is a sumptuous storytelling and culinary experience you will love!
Kutcha’s new album CIRCLING TIME features songs chosen to complement each thematic segment of the show, culminating in a finale in which the audience is invited to participate, raising their voices in a unified song of hope.
Times
7.30 pm (Thurs), 1.00 pm & 8.00 pm (Fri), 8.00 pm (Sat)
Times
7.30 pm
Dates
Thursday 19 May – Saturday 21 May
Dates
Tuesday 31 May
Tickets
All tickets $70.00
Tickets
Adult $40.00 | Concession $36.00
Studio
Studio
TO BOOK
2 Patrick Northeast Drive, Narre Warren
Visit bunjilplace.com.au or call 9709 9700 for tickets. Scan the QR code to see all our upcoming events.
T: 03 9709 9700
Please note: A Service fee of $3.00 applies to bookings made online and by phone. Delivery Fees may also apply.
#BunjilPlace
bunjilplace.com.au
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Rowing your boat - a good fit AT 63, Melbourne Bearbrass Probus stalwart Robyn Blake thinks nothing of rowing five kilometres down the Yarra from her club in Hawthorn before her races even start. Then she and her female four - the eldest 66 - do the 3.5km race and afterwards they row home upstream for another 8km. She rows 12 hours a week, or about 30km. She’s been rowing 14 years and hopes to keep it up for another 20. “Some people are still rowers at 90,” she says. “They might seem creaky in the rowing shed but once in the boat they’re fine.” Robyn and her quad in their last two years were Masters’ gold medal winners at Rutherglen, Victoria in January, gold medallists at Barwon Heads mid-2021 and best of all, state gold medallists in the Melbourne Head Race last November. “Sometimes we find ourselves competing against 18-year-olds,” she laughs. “We’ve really improved through togetherness. We’re more controlled and less frantic when the race starts. Our coach has drummed into us, ‘It doesn’t matter how well the other crews row. All that matters is how well you row today’.” She took up rowing when she was watching her daughter Florien on the river in Year 9 for MLC school. Florien went on to be vice captain of Boats. “We mums envied our daughters’ fitness,” Robyn says.
Robyn spends many hours per week in her boat. “It’s a mind-body thing. It’s made me unimaginably healthier, starting with my legs, and I have to be mentally fit too -if your head is not in the right place your every stroke can be off. Good strokes come when you’re calm and in control. It’s a therapy really.” She and Andrew, her husband of 37 years, have two daughters and one son aged from 22 to 28 and all are working or studying in England or California. How does Andrew view it all? “He’s driving me to the river in the car right now, he’s giving a thumbs up,” she says.
“He prefers jogging around the Botanic Gardens.” Robyn, who is also an historical novelist, loves the knowledge-sharing and socialising in Bearbrass Probus. “We can all learn so much from each other,” she says. Kerrie finds river pics a challenge For Bearbrass Probus photographer Kerrie Matthee, getting these splendid pics of veteran rower Robyn Blake was no light matter. She’s culled the best from more than 400 she took in a torrid early-morning shoot on a narrow stretch of the Yarra. To get the right angles and lighting,
Kerrie took to a coach’s tinnie with an outboard and shot from mid-river. “Lucky I didn’t fall out,” she says. “I had to leave behind my 12kg bag of telephoto lenses because they’d get wet. Lucky I had my sherpa husband Pierre there to haul me up and out afterwards.” She had planned to shoot down on Robyn from a bridge but the angles were too extreme. “With a portrait you can control where to place your subject. ‘Just stand here by the garden bed,’ you say. With rowers, they’re moving all over the place, and there’s safety issues for everyone on the water. “The Yarra stretch was so busy with other boats that people and athletes were interrupting my sight-lines. I was shooting in bright sunlight but the river banks were in deep shadow and heavily treed. I needed to use a shutter speed of 1/1600th and 1/2000th of a second because of the movement of the rowers and the tinnie. That made it hard to balance the light and avoid graininess.” She needed to make the four women in Robyn’s boat all presentable. “They’re exuding energy on the oars, not posing with nice smiles. I’d get a good shot but one of them might be grimacing. I shot them in bursts of 10-15 pics to get just one that’s OK.” Kerrie got the photography bug doing folk culture pics in Korea when Pierre was stationed there a decade ago. She’s done lion and elephant studies on safari in her native South Africa - “But this experience with Robyn was one of my biggest challenges.”
© EPE. Graceland and its marks are trademarks of EPE. All Rights Reserved. Elvis Presley™ © 2021 ABG EPE IP LLC.
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Teamwork!
Robyn welcomes the fitness gained from rowing.
It’s all smiles for the women on the oars.
Photographer Kerrie had her work cut out for her to capture great shots of the rowers.
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 13
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International Women’s Day INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day was celebrated with breakfast at Karalyka Centre, Ringwood. Four Probus Clubs representing Croydon Park, Ringwood Clocktower, Maroondah Combined and Ringwood Lake enjoyed sharing an early breakfast for International Women’s Day. The speaker was Lauren Oliver, the founder and chief executive officer of a national organisation focused on encouraging and creating a space for mums to invest in their mental health and self care. Prior to launching her business, Lauren practiced for 10 years as an insurance litigation lawyer, specialising in psychiatric injury Workcover claims. Lauren created Mums Who Wine following a genuine personal need to find mum friends
and community whilst juggling a busy corporate career and a mum life. Since launching in 2017 she has hosted over 200 events across the country, raising over $40,000 for PANDA (perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) and built and connected a powerful community of mums globally. Annette Belde - Ringwood Lake, Viv Keys Ringwood Clocktower, Anne Oughtibridge - Croydon Park/Ringwood Clocktower Seated: Liz Bower - Maroondah Combined, Marianne Di Giallonardo -Maroondah Director Corporate Services, Gayle Wendt - Croydon Park, and Anne Vick - Croydon Park / President of Probus Association Victoria.
Club welcomes all THE Probus Club of Anderson’s Inlet is looking forward to a year of happy meetings and pleasant outings under new president, Vic Wood, and his committee. The Club meets in the Inverloch RSL Hall, Bolding Place at 10am on the third Thursday of each month and welcomes all those who are retired or who are nearing retirement. New president, Vic Wood is congratulated by retiring president, Ted Cross. 274925
President Vic Wood and his new committee members.
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14 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Newly elected committee for 2022-23. Front row: Ardelle Kellock, Eileen Tenketen, Yvonne DeMarchi, Jenny O’Neil, Kaye Vosilaitis and Suzanne Christensen. Back: Fania Bolinogas, Yvonne Roy, Val Spark and Ivan Wight. Pictures: Ken Heaslip
Remaining Foundation Members: Lorraine Winnett, Pat Wheatley, Eunice O’Callaghan, Val Forbes, Jeni Butterworth, Beryl Anderson, Alan Berry, Ardelle Kellock, Doug Vains and founder Frank Wheatley. Not pictured: Elizabeth and John Irvine.
Greensborough celebrates GREENSBOROUGH Probus Club recently celebrated their 25th anniversary with a three course luncheon and entertainment by Don McQueen as he recited well known Banjo Patterson poetry. Twelve foundation members received framed certificates from foundation
president Frank Wheatley and newlyelected president Yvonne Roy to mark the occasion. Members reflected on memories and past presidents were also asked to come forward for a photo.
Past presidents: Colin O’Neil, Yvonne DeMarchi, Christine Freeman, Margaret Gladman, Geoff Butterworth, Ardelle Kellock, Jeni Butterworth, Foundation President Frank Wheatley, Doug Vains, Ann Sartori and Ivan Wight.
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M: 0478 700 449 E: mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au M: 0431 950 685 E: andy.jukes@starnewsgroup.com.au 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 *Publishers estimate of both print and digital edition readers
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Since 1995 we have been offering Seniors a three day break including Dinner, Bed and Breakfast in our purpose built Guest Wing. The Guest wing is fully self-contained with three bedrooms, its own kitchen and a 12m x 4m Lounge area overlooking 10 acres of gardens. The gardens were commenced in 1986 and are fully established with over 400 rose bushes and 24 flower beds. They are also home to a prolific bird life.
Newly elected President Yvonne Roy and Foundation President Frank Wheatley with 25th Anniversary Certificate from Probus South Pacific Ltd.
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Certificates of Appreciation to Colin O’Neil, Graham and Lee Deacon and Treasurer Laurie Christensen.
12533277-AV07-22
Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 15
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Presidents old and new.
Maree is new president THE Blackburn South Combined Probus Club has elected Maree Dowling as the new president. She was presented with the chain of office by the outgoing president Kath Thompson. Our club has now been going for 33 years and has an active membership who contribute their many talents to ensure of a vibrant club. Blackburn South Combined meets at the Horticultural Centre in Jolimont Road on the
first Wednesday of each month. During the summer months, they hold a free sausage sizzle in the gardens at the rear of the centre. They welcome enquiries about becoming a member, and recommend exploring their web site at probusblackburnsouth.org.au for more information. Alternatively, contact the secretary on 0411 314 218 to arrange a visit.
Bus and cruise day trippers
See OTB.ORG.AU/LOST-JOBS to view the online exhibition and for detailed museum opening hours 20 Spring Street, Melbourne | 9651 2233 | info@otb.org.au Image: 1948, MELBOURNE, VIC. A lamp cleaner on Princes Bridge. Reproduced courtesy News Ltd/Newsphotos. Lost Jobs: The Changing World of Work was researched and curated by the Old 7UHDVXU\ %XLOGLQJ LQ SDUWQHUVKLS ZLWK 3XEOLF 5HFRUG 2IÀFH 9LFWRULD
AT last the Echuca/Moama and Districts Probus Club was able to organise a day trip with no restrictions. We went by bus to the Barmah Lakes where we were booked on the Kingfisher cruise boat to cruise the Choke. We saw quite a lot of the birdlife and some koalas, but they were too far away to capture on camera. We then went to see the silo at Picola before going to the Barmah pub for lunch. A very nice meal. It was then on to the Barmah heritage Centre in Nathalia. Here we had a bit of a talk , watched an old film and had a good wander around the centre. The 3D painting on the floor are really eyecatching if you look at them through the phone camera. Then it was home to Echuca in the bus. Members agreed it was so good to be back doing trips. - Val Cosway Echuca/Moama and Districts Probus Club enjoyed a delicious lunch on their trip.
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16 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
Cruising the Choke.
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Tram boat island trip ON Friday 18 February at 9:30am, 38 excited members of the Glen Waverley Combined Probus Club climbed onto the Melbourne on the Move coach at the Burvale Hotel carpark for the long anticipated and once postponed Tram Boat trip to Heron Island. It was a very comfortable trip on the coach to Victoria Harbour at Docklands where we boarded the Tram Boat. The first order of the day was a life jacket demonstration using one of our members Gary Prasad who did a wonderful job of modelling the life jacket. It was then off to the Yarra River and upstream past the city buildings, under some very low bridges while enjoying the morning tea and coffee with little cakes and nibbles. We finally arrived at Heron Island with everyone getting off to have a tour of the Island and view the various sculptures that reside there. The day had started very overcast but the sun broke out just as we disembarked at the Island. Each sculpture was explained by the guide. We were surprised by the number and variety of the sculptures as well as the size of the Island. Once back on the boat it was time for lovely sandwiches for lunch and they went down well with the drinks purchased on the Tram Boat. From Heron Island we travelled upstream past some very fancy houses with lovely gardens and views to die for. Some of the more adventurous of our members went onto the upper deck for a better view of the houses all the all up to the way up to
A guide explains a sculpture on Heron Island.
Inspecting a sculpture on Heron Island.
Riding the Tram Boat. the Scotch College Boat Houses where we turned around for our homeward journey. As we turned around, the rain started so, in good Melbourne tradition, we were having four seasons in one day. The rain continued as we travelled past the city but stopped in time for us to disembark at Victoria Harbour and board the coach for our trip back to the Burvale Hotel arriving just after 3.30pm. A great outing thoroughly enjoyed by all the members. Heron Island was a place all of us had seen but none of us had visited so it was an interesting and worthwhile experience.
A member became a model for the lifejacket demonstration.
Keeping eyes peeled on the scenery while enjoying a cuppa.
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 17
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Outings for Dromana Valley MARCH was a busy month for Dromana Valley Probus Club. Members took advantage of the easing of restrictions and enjoyed several activities just like we used to. The club has plenty more planned including their annual caravan and cabin trip, this year to Warrnambool, as well as a bus trip with Southern Star Coaches to the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show.
Members have enjoyed getting out and about.
A relaxed gathering by the water.
Enjoying the sunshine together again.
Our Happy Hour and a half was enjoyed at Joan’s home.
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Sharing memories.
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18 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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news
Church’s high artistic history ON Wednesday 23 February, members of The Probus Club of Bairnsdale met at to tour Bairnsdale’s St Mary’s Catholic Church. We are very lucky to have one of our members, Judith Robbins, as an official guide. Judith regularly gives tours of the church on an official basis. St Mary’s was built in 1913 and extended in 1937. The church was designed by architect AA Fritsch and now has a National Trust Classification. Judith explained how the church came to have such extraordinary paintings. It all began with an Italian pea-picker from Metung who decided there must be more profitable or enjoyable work than picking peas during the Depression. He approached the church for work and was asked to paint some of the statues in the church. Unbeknown to many he also had training as a painter. He was then commissioned to paint murals in the church. Using very basic scaffolding, he painted more than 300 angels, each with a different face on the ceiling and then the side altars, the sanctuary and upper areas of the nave walls were decorated—a mammoth task that took almost three years. The church is now famous for its remarkable decorative scheme over the barrel-vaulted interior in the form of paintings of mediocre quality but in overwhelming profusion executed by the Italian Francesco Floreani who painted it between 1931-34 and then the extension in 1937.
The church has become well known for its artwork.
Taking in the glorious paintings of St Mary’s in Bairnsdale. The church was designed so the tower could be seen from all over the town. Plans to have a spire on the top of the tower were scrapped when it was discovered the base was not large enough to support a spire. Judith also pointed out paintings of
many of the people from the church who are integrated into the murals (unbeknown to them) and also that most of the vital organs of the angels, as directed by the church , had been removed, but some escaped the eye of the painter. Most of those present had visited the
Listening carefully to the history of the church’s paintings. church for various reasons but had never had the history of the painting explained. After the church visit, members walked across the road to The Main Hotel where they were joined by some other members. All enjoyed a great lunch in the company of our Probus friends.
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 19
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20 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
Stockman’s Hall of Fame & Qantas Museum Camp oven dinner and show Camden Park Station tour Dinosaur trail at Winton 2 nights Cloncurry Karumba sunset dinner cruise Gulflander rail journey 2 nights Cobbold Gorge taking cruise and scenic flight 1 night Undara Lava Tubes 2 nights Cairns riding the Kuranda
Scenic Rail & cruising ancient rainforest Skyrail Gondola ride over Barron Gorge Cairns Aquarium One-way economy class flight ex Cairns included^ 41 meals
for 9 May 2022
DEPARTS > 9 MAY; 6, 20 JUN; 4, 18 JUL 2022
14 DAYS
EARLY BIRD DEAL! SAVE UP TO $200PP*
DEPARTS > 23 & 26 SEP; 15 OCT 2022
TOP END ENCOUNTER
Per person twin share
FROM
$7,499 *
3 nights Perth Rottnest Island day tour New Norcia The Pinnacles 2 nights Geraldton Rainbow Jungle aviary Hawks Head & West Loop Skywalk HMAS Sydney Memorial 1 night Dalwallinu 2 nights Hyden visiting Wave Rock 2 nights Albany The Gap Desert Mounted Corps Memorial at Mount Clarence Australian Wildlife & Botanic Gardens Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk Pemberton Tram tour 2 nights Pemberton Donnelly River cruise 1 night Margaret River with winery tour Cape Naturaliste Koomal
Dreaming bushwalk and visit to Ngilgi Cave Busselton Return economy class flights to Perth included^ 38 meals
for 23 & 26 Sep 2022
Per person twin share
7 DAYS
FROM
$6,795*
Enjoy 4 nights 5-star in Darwin Mindil Beach Sunset Markets Tiwi Island day tour with local guides Darwin day tour visiting Museum and
Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, Fannie Bay Gaol Darwin Harbour seafood dinner watching an iconic sunset Litchfield National Park day tour visiting the termite mounds, Florence Falls & Wangi Falls Kakadu National Park discovering Adelaide River, Magela Flood Plains & Nourlangie rock art site 2 nights Kakadu taking a Yellow Water wetlands cruise & 30-minute scenic flight of Kakadu Return economy class flights to Darwin included^ 16 meals DEPARTS > 14 JUL; 11 AUG 2022
Call TOLL FREE on 1300 554 505 for our free comprehensive tour brochure
www.funoverfifty.com.au
Dreaming dinner and tribal dance 3 nights Longreach visiting Australian
HOT DEAL SAVE UP TO $300PP*
BEST OF THE WEST & WILDFLOWER TRAIL
Luxury ‘Gold Class’ coach touring 1 night Roma & Barcaldine Desert
Per person twin share
SUPER
FROM
6
$4,750 *
SPECIAL
When 6 or more guests book together, receive an EXTRA $100pp OFF!**
**Direct bookings only
GRAND QUEENSLAND COAST & ISLAND AFFAIR
EXPERIE N THE HEIG CE H OF LUXU T R Y O N TH E ROAD
Enjoy 3 nights 5-star in Yulara Olgas at sunset with drinks Field of Light Uluru sunrise and Mala walk Uluru camel trek Maruku Arts dot painting workshop Sounds of Silence dinner Kings Creek Station 1 night Kings Canyon 3 nights Alice Springs
discovering the Outback Telegraph Station, Women’s Museum of Australia & Royal Flying Doctor Service Outback bush BBQ dinner West MacDonnell Ranges Standley Chasm & Glen Helen Homestead Ormiston Gorge Simpsons Gap Economy class flights to Ayers Rock (Uluru) airport and from Alice Springs included^ 19 meals DEPARTS > 16 JUN; 26 JUL 2022
SINGAPORE SHOWCASE SPECTACULAR
Per person twin share
9 DAYS
$5,550 *
Unpack once for 7 nights Swissotel The Stamford Hotel, Singapore Chinatown
tour with dinner and trishaw ride Singapore Zoo; River Safari Park; giant panda forest Garden Rhapsody light and sound show Singapore Botanic Gardens Royal Albatross sunset dinner cruise Gardens by the Bay High tea at Raffles Singaporean cultural cooking class Night Safari tour with dinner and chartered tram Sentosa Island Wings of Time water & laser show Jewel Changi; Canopy Park; The Changi Experience Studio Tipping of local guide & motorcoach drivers Singapore Airlines return economy flights to Singapore included^ 20 meals
HOT DEAL SAVE $100PP* book by 30 Jun
DEPARTS > 12 SEP 2022
QUEENSLAND COAST GOLF GETAWAY
FROM
8 DAYS
Per person twin share
FROM
$7,395*
Opulent ‘Diamond Class’ coach touring from Brisbane 18 holes with motorised
cart at Palmer Coolum Resort Golf Club 2 nights Noosa 18 holes with motorised cart at Noosa Springs Golf Club 2 nights Yeppoon 18 holes with motorised cart at Capricorn Golf Club Cruise transfer from Port of Airlie to Hamilton Island 3 nights Hamilton Island 18 holes with motorised cart at Hamilton Island Golf Club Full use
of resort equipment including catamarans, paddle boards, windsurfers and snorkels Adventure jet boat tour of the Whitsunday Islands including Whitehaven Beach Economy class flight from Hamilton Island included^ 21 meals
HOT DEAL SAVE $150PP* book by 30 Apr
DEPARTS > 16 MAY 2022
Per person twin share
FROM
$4,820 *
7 DAYS
CAIRNS, DAINTREE, CAPE TRIBULATION & MOSSMAN GORGE
DEPARTS > 8, 15 MAY 5, 12 JUN 2022
Per person twin share
6 DAYS
FROM
$3,700 *
Luxury ‘Gold Class’ coach touring Visit QCamel farm for morning tea and meet the camels Maryborough
heritage sights town tour with the local storyteller Unpack once staying 5 nights at the Mantra Hotel in ocean view rooms Discover the famous drop on tour at the Bundaberg Rum Distillery Explore aviation history at Hinkler Hall of Aviation Reefworld Aquarium & fish feeding Marvel at majestic humpback whales at play on a 5-hour whale watch cruise Discover World Heritage-listed K’gari (Fraser Island) on a full day 4WD safari Ride the Mary Valley Rattler steam train 15 meals
HOT DEAL SAVE $50PP* book by 30 Jun
DEPARTS > 11, 25 JUL 2022
BAROSSA VALLEY & KANGAROO ISLAND
Island taking a glass bottom boat cruise Travel outback to take Royal Arch Chillagoe Caves guided tour Cruise
the mighty Daintree River & explore Cape Tribulation Ride the Kuranda Scenic Rail from Cairns to Kuranda Cruise ancient rainforests on the Kuranda Riverboat cruise Glide over Barron Gorge on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway Private Cairns Aquarium twilight tour with drinks & canapes Return economy class flights to Cairns included^ 16 meals
HOT DEAL SAVE $150PP* in May, booked by 30 Apr
FRASER & CORAL COAST CAPERS
Stay 6 nights 5-star in Cairns Mossman Gorge dreamtime cultural tour Port Douglas Cruise to Green
8 DAYS
EARLY BIRD DEAL! SAVE UP TO $100PP* book by 30 Jun
DEPARTS > 11 NOV 2022
Per person twin share
FROM
$2,570 *
Opulent ‘Diamond Class’ coach touring 3 nights Barossa Valley Chateau Tanunda tour Maggie Beer Farm Shop cooking demonstration and lunch Seppeltsfield
Estate guided tour and wine tasting Barossa Valley Chocolate Company Apple strudel making class at Hahndorf 1 night Victor Harbor 2 nights Kangaroo Island Birds of Prey Display Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery Guided beach walk to see Australian sea lions Flinders Chase National Park Tour and tasting at Clifford’s Honey Farm Wine tasting & platter lunch at Dudley Wines Cape Willoughby Lighthouse 1 night Adelaide Return economy class flights to Adelaide included^ 20 meals Per person twin share
FROM
12543523-DL16-22
8 DAYS
ULURU, KINGS CANYON & ALICE SPRINGS
$4,780 *
Immersive tours & adventures visiting every State & Territory of Australia. *Prices are correct as at 1 May 2022. Prices are per person, twin share and include GST. Prices are subject to fluctuation due to changes in surcharges, fees and taxes. A limited number of Early Bird & Hot Deal offers are available on selected departure dates and are subject to availability at the time of booking. Itineraries are subject to alteration and cancellation without notice. Fun Over 50 tours are styled and designed for persons aged 50 years and over. ^Flights included are from select destinations with an airline of the supplier’s choosing and subject to the airline’s booking and carriage conditions. (PP = Per Person).
Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 21
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30 years for Horsham East Inaugural members receiving their 20 year badges at the Cobden Probus Club’s 20th birthday.
HORSHAM East Ladies Probus Club members have celebrated the organisation’s 30th birthday with a gathering at Horsham RSL.
Cheers to two decades of friendship and fun
The club formed in 1992 at a meeting chaired by the then Horsham East Rotary Club president, the late Dr John Nunn. Probus president Ruth Walter invited life members Phyl Cramer and Lorna Rentsch to cut a 30th birthday celebratory cake during the occasion. She said the club had enjoyed friendship, fellowship and fun over the years, with interesting guest speakers at meetings, formal and informal outings, a walking group, movie afternoons, fashion parades and other activities. Horsham East Rotary Club president Pam Clarke also presented a framed 30th birthday congratulatory certificate from Probus South Pacific Limited to the club.
Probus club president Ruth Walter, left, accepts a congratulatory certificate from Horsham East Rotary Club president Pam Clarke.
Horsham East Ladies Probus Club life members Lorna Rentsch, left, and Phyl Cramer cut a birthday cake at the club’s 30th anniversary. Pictures: Paul Carracher
THE Cobden Probus Club was thrilled to celebrate two decades of friendship and fun at the club’s 20th birthday luncheon held at the Cobden Bowling Club. A lovely barbecue was cooked by our Probus men - and many enjoyable salads by our catering committee. Conden Probus Club was formed on 22 February 2002 by its sponsoring body - the Cobden Rotary Club. The 2002/ 2003 inaugural officer bearers were president- Val Maynard, vice president- Don Rawlings, secretary- Joan McQuinn, and treasurer - Fred Wheaton . “With our first year membership started at 100 - and amazingly Val Maynard and Fred Wheaton plus 17 other members are still active to this day,“ a spokesperson said. “A presentation was made to our inaugural members with a 20-year badge presented by president Pam Savage and secretary Sue Gass . “Our birthday cake was cut by our
Cobden Probus Club’s first presidentVal Maynard and first treasurer- Fred Wheaton cutting the cake. first president Val Maynard and our first treasurer Fred Wheaton.“ All enjoyed a sing-a-long with Helen Perkins as well fun and games with plenty of laughter throughout the afternoon. The club was joined by past members from Kilmore, Geelong and surrounding districts.
Probus Club of Traralgon Combined PROBUS Club of Traralgon Combined AGM was held on 21st March, 2022 at the Greyhound Racing Club. The monthly meeting was held at 10.00 am followed by the AGM at 11.00am. There was a good turnout of members and visitors. The previous AGM’s Minutes were read by the Secretary and as there was no matters arising, a motion that the Minutes be accepted as true and correct was carried. Bill Caddy declared all nominations vacant. All nominations that were filled were declared elected. Outgoing President, Christa Canning, gave her report in which she said it was a
challenging year due to Covid restrictions with many activities being booked and cancelled. This created a lot of extra work which involved relevant Committee Members who organised activities and was also time consuming. Christa thanked them for their dedication. Members were also involved with some decision making, choosing Christmas Vouchers over hampers. Christa said that she was honoured and really appreciated the opportunity to become our Club’s President and thanked the 2021-2022 Committee and Volunteers for their hard work with Covid restrictions ever present.
Past President Christa delivered the Installation Statement and presented new President, David North , with the Collar of Office and presented him with his President’s Pin along with best wishes for a successful and rewarding year in office. In his address to the meeting David thanked Past President Christa and asked her to come forward and presented her with her Certificate acknowledging her year as President and Past President’s Pin. Thanking her and her team for their hard work, motivation and efficiency over the past 12 months. David introduced the incoming Committee for 2022-2023 and inducted
them into their positions and gave them their Badges of Office. David hoped that more members would step up when needed so that the Club can continue with a wide range of speakers and activities to ensure another successful year of fun, friendship and fellowship in retirement.
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Enter through beautiful bluestone gates and drive down a 1.6km long driveway to a magnificent French Gothic style homestead with charming gardens. Guests are taken on a guided tour and lunches, morning and afternoon tea are available by arrangement. (This entry is for cars only, there’s a seperate entrance for buses)
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22 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Travel makes welcome return TRAVEL IS BACK IT is a good feeling to start planning holidays again and Trade Travel reports quite a few Probus Clubs have already travelled and many more are locking in their club tours for 2022/2023 and even into 2024, to avoid disappointment while occupancy rates around the country soar. Of course, support is high for this 30-yearold company - they went the extra mile and looked after all their clients during the pandemic and that is what Trade Travel is all about! EXPO NEWS The Melbourne Travel Expo held in March was a resounding success as tour leaders enjoyed presentations from selected Australian and New Zealand suppliers and wholesalers, giving the audience valuable insight into some of the new touring options available. Destinations such as the Southern Queensland Outback, Capricorn Coast Food Trail, Victorian Silo Trail, Norfolk Island and Tasmania, including King and Flinders Island, were some of the products showcased and a live chat and a few laughs from our good mate Richard Kinnon from Outback Pioneers all the way from Longreach. Everyone was very impressed with the announcement that all Trade Travel tours will now have their own tour director on board to assist with every aspect on tour, including Covid19 protocols that can differ in each state and country. So that means everyone on board can just sit back and relax, knowing that the safety and wellbeing of the passengers is in hand, and the only thing left to do is enjoy the holiday!!
Get on the road with Trade Travel.
Explore all the sights with Trade Travel. Travelling within Australia has been the only option for some time and, while borders are now open, the temptation is certainly there to travel further afield. With that in mind, they have released some international destinations to the Cook Islands, Singapore and New Zealand. NEW ZEALAND PRODUCT RELEASE Trade Travel and Grand Pacific Tours have now formed a partnership and will be working closely together for the benefit of our travellers. They are delighted to present three exclusive New Zealand Tours and with the recent announcement of New Zealand borders opening to Australians, there has never been a better time to consider a New Zealand holiday. Grand Pacific Tours are the New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist and together with Trade Travel will offer Probians to opportunity to experience the very best of New Zealand, on either a 20-seat Ultimate Small Group
Tour, a 32-seat Signature Mid-Size Group tour or a 48-seat Classic Tour. These departures offer exclusive savings to Probians and Trade Travel expect them to sell out quickly. TRAVELLERS TOURING FEEDBACK IN 2022 It is so important to book your travel with an agency you can trust and which is dedicated to providing quality products, quality service and a quality experience. Hear what other travellers have to say about Trade Travel: A most enjoyable tour to Lakes Entrance last week. You filled the days with interesting activities and we weren’t rushed. As the club contact, having your tour director on board with us made my task easy and allowed for a relaxing holiday. We have now been on a number of Trade Travel tours because you tailor a tour for us that’s great value for money.
·
Robert Alves - Diamond Creek Probus Club On behalf of the Probus Club of BallaratSouthern Cross and members who recently returned from a wonderful 13 days touring the lovely state of Tasmania, I would like to extend our club’s thanks to Trade Travel, in particular Gerard, who chose to run the tour with all the associated uncertainty arising from Covid, and Brittany who, in consultation with our club, developed a fantastic itinerary which displayed Tasmania at its best. Our accommodation was fabulous and meals and other inclusions were truly value for money. I cannot say enough with regard to our Trade Travel Tour director, Carolyn and coach captain, Will, who blended perfectly to provide humour and very informative commentary, throughout the duration of the trip.” Ian Campbell Activities, Probus Club of BallaratSouthern Cross Trade Travel are excited to see you back on tour - sit back, relax and enjoy the ride!
·
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 23
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BluesCross residents’ stories EVERYONE has a story to tell and BlueCross residents across 12 residences are currently sharing their life experiences through a volunteer based digital story telling program. BlueCross is proud to partner with Swinburne University of Technology in the Digital Story Program to capture residents’ stories and share them with others. Organised by the Wellbeing Clinic for Older Adults at Swinburne University, the program aims to improve the quality of life of residents living in aged care. The resident is encouraged to reminisce and talk about their life events or experiences during social visits from a matched volunteer. Together, the volunteer and the resident produce a short digital narrative that portrays the resident’s identity and tells a story about them. This process of supported and ongoing companionship helps the resident to feel valued and have their life experiences validated. BlueCross lifestyle and volunteer manager Catherine Gerhardt said it was also a wonderful opportunity for people to experience working with older people in aged care. “Working together with Swinburne University, we are recruiting volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including psychology students and interested community members,” Ms Gerhardt said. “Swinburne provides the coaching for volunteers and BlueCross supports the selected volunteers through placements with our residents. “It is a great opportunity for collaboration.” The digital stories will be completed towards the end of the year. Those interested in volunteering can contact volunteercoordinator@bluecross.com.au Residents and volunteers are matched to capture digital stories.
Celebrations and outings at Bunyip-Garfield THE Bunyip-Garfield Probus Club travelled to the historical town of Walhalla to go on The Goldfields Railway, which was first constructed from Moe to Walhalla - taking five years to complete before opening in 1910.
After a few unsuccessful attempts in the 1950s and 1970s, The Walhalla Goldfields Railway was formed in 1992 to bring a section back as a tourist train.
Unfortunately, due to the decline in mining, it was closed in 1944.
The railway is still run by volunteers today.
So many volunteers helped make it possible and it opened in 2002.
Members were pleased to be able to experience the train ride that takes you beside Stringers Creek then though ravines and cuttings with us all wondering how back in the 1905 what equipment they used to build the railway then. We continued on before reaching the trestle bridge that goes over the picturesque Thomson River then onto the station
where we all stepped of the train (maybe not all). As the train had to turn around for the trip back, we had a lovely lunch back in the goods shed which was served by the volunteers. The afternoon was free to explore the town that has such a rich history. Happy, happy 15th birthday!
Sculpture Garden & Gallery
EXPERIENCE YESTERYEAR IN THE YARRA VALLEY
Workshop Tours Available with Devonshire Tea
Enjoy our Guided Tour of s 4HE HOMESTEAD s (ISTORIC TIMBER SLAB KITCHEN s S #HAPEL "LACKSMITHS SHOP s "EAUTIFUL GARDENS PLUS MUCH MORE
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3409 Midland Hwy, Blampied | 0403 675 170 71 Wellington Road, Wandin North | T: 5964 2088 | www.montdelancey.org.au 12439392-NG08-20
24 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
www.overwrought.com.au 12530298-DL07-22
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The perfect midweek travel PORT Phillip Ferries is not just a passenger ferry service. They connect people with experiences and adventures across the bay with daily services from Docklands to Geelong and Portarlington. There is so much to explore in these untapped regions on the other side of the bay and starting the journey with a ferry ride is all part of the adventure. Avoid the weekend crowds and explore the Bellarine Peninsula the stress-free way with our midweek services. Avoid the stress of driving down the freeway and start your day trip with a relaxed cruise across the bay aboard a modern stateof-the-art catamaran. With large indoor and outdoor seating areas, let the fresh air invigorate you as you’re sipping your morning coffee and taking in the scenery. When you arrive, there is so much to explore. From winery tours and long lunches at the House of Jack Rabbit, to walking tours and art gallery exhibitions in Geelong. There’s also a great range of lunch packages that include return ferry tickets, so booking for groups is a breeze. Whether it’s organising transfers for a group or a more one on one experience, there are so many options of getting around once you arrive it makes planning easy. Port Phillip Ferries purpose-built vessels cater to all the creature comforts. Think on-board licensed cafe, baristamade coffee, free Wi-Fi, bike racks, charging stations and endless scenic views. Arrive relaxed, invigorated and ready to take on your coastal adventure
Make Port Phillip Ferries the first port of call when you’re looking to explore Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula. - no car keys or traffic necessary. Both ferries are easily accessible for all via our boarding ramps, and they comfortably accommodate wheelchairs, motorised mobility scooters, and prams. There are
also 20 free bike racks on board if you want to make your own tracks and just go for a ride. Make Port Phillip Ferries the first port of call when you’re looking to explore
Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula. For all timetables, tour packages, transport options and bookings please visit the website. https://www.portphillipferries.com.au/
Beleura House & Garden
Menarock
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• Morning & Afternoon Tea Tours • Full Day tours with lunch • Concert music program Make a booking at www.beleura.org.au or telephone 5975 2027. Ask for a speaker to talk to your Probus Group.
Contact us today to book your personal tour! Beleura House & Garden is an associated property with the National Trust
Phone: 1300 096 971 * Conditions apply. Enquire today! Free respite also available for a well deserved break
menarocklife.com.au 12533353-JW07-22
Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 25
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Wantirna South Probus trips WANTIRNA South Probus Club has just celebrated its fourth birthday and it was fantastic, once again, to be able to celebrate and share this event together. The Covid pandemic and restrictions affected all our lives and even though we lived through an historic event, now freedom and good times beckon. With Christmas approaching in 2020 and 2021 and members not being able to meet for many months, the committee arranged a picnic each year, all funded by the club. There was lots of fun and laughter, Kris Kringle, lucky prizes and everyone was very appreciative of all the work and planning to make such successful, enjoyable Christmas catchups. Several groups have evolved and convene monthly - walking group, are a tough lot always turn up whether rain or sunshine; dine-out at selected local restaurants, book club and canasta card group. The club managed a couple of mystery day trips before lockdown and these are about to recommence. We never know what is ahead for the day but it is always pleasant. Many excellent outings have been held (when we were allowed) which included visits to beautiful gardens, concerts, alpaca farm, Puffing Billy, ferry rides to Williamstown, Parliament visit and high tea, museums and recently showed our skills joining a barefoot bowls afternoon. Monthly newsletters were also distributed detailing all the news and articles with regular articles contributed by
Trips to explore new areas are fun.
Bowling greens encouraged members to have a try. members, a great read. Early in May the club has organised its first holiday event, a few days at Yea where the club has booked out the caravan park. There are some activities planned but
Members welcome the opportunity to catch up.
members are also free to just wander. Wantirna South Probus is also hosting the PAV Golf Day at Waterford Valley Golf Course in October (cancelled last year), plans are well advanced and members look
forward to a successful day. The club has a full membership with a small waiting list. Meetings take place the second Wednesday of the month at Wantirna Club in Stud Road, Wantirna.
STAYING ACTIVE NEVER GETS OLD
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26 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Helmut Newton, Charlotte Rampling, St Tropez, 1976.
Alice Springs, Helmut Newton, Melbourne, 1958.
‘Extraordinary life’ in snaps JEWISH Museum of Australia: Gandel Centre of Judaica, in partnership with the Helmut Newton Foundation and in collaboration with PHOTO 2022 International Festival of Photography, is excited to announce Helmut Newton: In Focus – a milestone exhibition exploring the extraordinary life of one of the most influential and provocative fashion photographers of all time. Helmut Newton: In Focus is a distinct exhibition drawing on the life and work
of visionary German-born photographer, Helmut Newton. It shines a light on his personal story and links to Australia, particularly Melbourne where he established his photographic studio in the heart of the rag trade in the post-war years, becoming part of the cultural fabric of the city as a leading fashion and theatre photographer. Approximately 200 items are on display, consisting of original photographs, magazines and ephemera, archival
sources, and images charting Newton’s development as an internationally renowned photographer and exploring the personal and historical forces that shaped his life and career. Helmut Newton: In Focus delves into Newton’s early career, his Jewish roots and youth in Berlin, and shares details of his relationship with his Australian-born wife, the acclaimed actress, artist and photographer June Newton, who worked under the pseudonym, Alice Springs.
DETAILS:
· Dates of Exhibition: 29 April – 29 January, 2023 · Address of Jewish Museum: 26 Alma Road, St Kilda · Hours of opening: Tues-Fri, Sun: 10-5 · · ·
(check website for most up to date details) Website: jewishmuseum.com.au Phone: 8534 3600 Social media: @jewishmuseumaus
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 27
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Wedderburn’s wanderings HAVING circumnavigated the Inverloch sports ground, our transport arrived and 18 members of the Anderson’s Inlet and Inverloch Clubs were loaded, together with their luggage, several walking frames and a gopher. Then it was onwards to Kooweerup to collect six members of the Hastings Club. After a pause for morning tea at Diggers Rest, we travelled through Malmsbury to Harcourt where we lunched at Skydancers Nursery. Following a leisurely inspection of the nursery and butterfly house we proceeded onto our destination at the Wedderburn Motel. The next day saw a leisurely trip to Inglewood to inspect the eucalyptus distillery where we learnt about the processes involved, enjoyed morning coffee and inspected the outdoor railway under construction. We then took the opportunity to boost the economy of the town by patronising their shops. A visit to the historic courthouse saw one of our members acquitted of the charge of abducting a minor before we adjourned to St Augustine’s Church to seek penance and afternoon tea. An early start on Sunday saw us make our way through Charlton, Donald and Rupanyup to Murtoa to be conducted through The Stick Shed. This is the only survivor of several emergency shelters erected to store the wheat during World War Two. After a scrumptious lunch at the Orchard Cafe (Murtoa & District Neighbourhood House), we inspected the Water Tower and Railway Station Museum. Then it was home through Minyip (Coopers Crossing of the Royal Flying Doctors TV series) and St Arnaud. On Monday we took the chance to explore Wedderburn, visiting the Coach House and Museum, then enjoying a walk to inspect the murals around the town. A visit to Cuzz’s Studio for a demonstration of pyrography was followed by a short bus ride to Hard Hill to see a eucalyptus pot in action. On the way home we strolled through the Wedderburn Community Garden (Ted’s Garden) and wondered at Nancy Stokes’ cottage, built for her by her 11-yearold son. Tuesday saw another early start with a trip through St Arnaud to Ararat to be conducted through J Ward, a former jail and mental asylum. Following the rather grim tales heard there, it was on to Great Western where we were warmly received and lunched at the Seppelts Winery. After a talk on the history of the winery, we descended into the cellars and were lead through part of the extensive
Outdoor dining was popular.
Members listened attentively.
A tiny historical house.
underground tunnels used for storing wine. Then it was back to Wedderburn passing through Stawell and Newborough enroute. Wednesday saw us on the bus heading along back roads to view the scenes of discovery of many of the largest nuggets found during, and after, the gold rushes. Passing through Rheola, McInyre and Dunnolly we arrived at Maldon where once again we made efforts to stimulate the local economy. After a thorough inspection of the town, we proceed to
the railway station where we boarded the Goldfield Railway parlour car for a very relaxing trip to Castlemaine. After examining the locomotive and having a chat with the driver, it was back in the bus for a trip through Marong, Bridgewater and Inglewood to Wedderburn. Having packed our cases and other belongings and enjoyed another early breakfast, we departed for home, travelling first through bushranger country to the Melville Caves Lookout, then on to
Bridgewater for a quick toilet stop. Lunch was taken at Woodend after which we navigated the city traffic, and the freeway works to pause to farewell some of our number and take afternoon refreshments at Kooweerup. Finally it was on to Inverloch after a very interesting and happy week of fun and friendship. Special thanks are due to Dot Coulton, our tour organiser, Kevin of Daytripper Tours, our careful and knowledgeable driver and guide, and to the friendly and helpful staff of the Wedderburn Motel.
Walhalla Goldfields Railway Victoria’s Most Spectacular Railway
Ask about our Walhalla Experience packages. Call (03) 5165 6280 Email: office@walhallarail.com.au or visit www.walhallarail.com.au for further information. 12540681-HC16-22
28 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Plenty of history was explored on the trip.
Comfort on tour.
Hard times of years past were revisited.
Happy travellers.
NEW HOMES FOR SALE
New facilities on their way to Willow Lodge! Palm Lake Resort Willow Lodge continues to develop at a rate of knots, with shiny new homes popping up all the time and many new neighbours joining us. This year, our resort will also see an exciting series of construction projects unfold. Our clubhouse will receive an extension which will house a new gymnasium, indoor swimming pool and even a sauna. Also included is a luxury movie cinema boasting plush seats and an impressively large screen. There is also scope in the plans for new activity rooms which will house our crafters, artists and other talented creatives, as well as our group exercise fans and wellbeing classes like yoga and Pilates.
Book a private tour now and learn more about the exciting NEW facilities coming soon!
BOOK A TOUR TODAY 1800 974 981 2 Willow Rd, Bangholme VIC 3175 THE BEST IN OVER-50S LIVING. THIS IS YOUR TIME. pa l ml a ke r e s or t .c om.a u
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Allan Breen, Lyn Breen, Des Fiedler and president Glenys Billings.
Carlyn Yeung and Glenys Billings cut the Probus Club of White Hills birthday cake which was made and decorated by Merle Boyd.
Probus Club of White Hills IT’S been a busy few months for the Probus Club of White Hills since activities have recommenced following the Covid break. It’s always great to welcome new members and we look forward to many enjoyable times with Lyn and Allan Breen and Des Fiedler in our midst. The club’s 2021 Christmas lunch was held at the Bendigo Pottery in December where members and friends enjoyed the best of Christmas fare, Barry Rainsford’s Christmas Quiz, some very questionable carol singing and the celebration of Merle Monti’s birthday. March saw the induction of Elaine King, who was introduced to the club by Wendy Ryan. New members are always most welcome and it is anticipated that some recent visitors will become members in the near future. Another special occasion was the presentation of life membership, a and a 25 year certificate and pin to Carlyn Yeung,
who joined White Hills Probus in 1995/96. Since that time, Carlyn has displayed loyalty, commitment and excellence in support of the Probus ideals of friendship, fun and fellowship, as well as activity in many areas. A wonderful achievement! Tom Dobeli, the President of Bendigo Rotary Club presided over the election of office bearers at the annual general meeting held in March. All office bearers were returned unopposed with just the addition of Joy Roy to the committee of management. Those returned are president Glenys Billings, vice president Bill Knight, secretary Maree Walker, treasurer Evelyn Robertson, committee Wendy Betts, Joy Roy, Colin Watts, John Ham and Bob Boyd, assistant treasurer Ian Robertson. The club birthday cake was made and decorated by Merle Boyd. Following the meeting lunch was served in the clubrooms, with many members staying on to enjoy each others’ company.
Merle Monti, John and Jan Harrington, Glenys and Alan Stevenson.
Bev Smith, Lyn Murphy, Sonja Wragg, June Dorman and Elaine Smart.
Allan Price, Cheryl Price, Elaine King, Wendy Ryan and Barry Rainsford.
Carlyn Yeung is presented with life membership and 25 year pin and certificate by president Glenys Billings.
Tom Dobeli, president of Bendigo Rotary is thanked by returning president, Glenys Billings.
30 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Direct from showy Graceland THE City of Bendigo is alive with ‘Elvis: Direct from Graceland’ now on show at the Bendigo Art Gallery - and several members of the Probus Club of White Hills (and friends) have spent an enjoyable morning on 30 March exploring the extraordinary life and style
of Elvis Presley. Direct from the Graceland archives; the exhibition features a wide range of stage wear, ultra-cool off-stage outfits, vintage memorabilia and treasured items from his beloved Graceland home; including his gold bedside telephone, his treasured
crayon box, and a set of bongos gifted to him by Priscilla. The range of clothes on display included the outfits worn by Elvis and Priscilla Presley on their wedding day, the outfit worn by Elvis when he met President Nixon and a studded American Eagle suit
worn to perform live via satellite. Elvis fans could relate easily to the music and the style of Elvis as presented on several screens within the gallery. Lunch at the Foundry Hotel Bistro completed a very interesting and memorable day.
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Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 31
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Spring forward, fall back Michael B Halley 4 April 2022 THE easy way to adjust your clocks for Daylight Saving is to move forward in spring and fall back in autumn [USA Fall]. It worked this April as members, and the presenter for the Combined Probus Club of Whittlesea were on time. An appropriate headline as Ivan Peterson came along to give the assembly an overview of his time in Papua New Guinea [PNG] in the last century’s sixties. He not only delved into his memory, but into the mysteries of reformatting 35mm Kodak slides for compatibility with modern technology. When Ivan moved to PNG to take up a teaching role, PNG was made up of two separate territories administered by the Australian Government’s Department of Territories. Papua was an Australian Territory similar in status to the ACT, the NT, and several other islands. New Guinea was a United Nations Protectorate administered by Australia. The path to independence was long and indirect. In the late 19th century, a semblance of governance and western culture was introduced by various missionary societies. When the United Nations was established in 1946, New Guinea becomes a UN Protectorate administered by Australia. A detailed census was required in the lead up to independence. In June of 1966, an extended school holiday was proclaimed during which teachers were seconded to
Ivan Peterson. the administration to conduct a census. Independence came a decade later on 16 September 1975! We fell back to the past as he described the journey from Essendon airport with TAA in a Vickers Viscount and later in PNG on a DC3 and landing in Rabaul on a grass strip that was only operable when runways were dry. When they landed the brand-new terminal consisted of a tent and basic necessities. [If we spring forward, we now find that people in still sometimes board planes from the tarmac using steps, the same as when TAA operated at Essendon]. But why did they go there? The United Nations had raised concern with the Australian Government about the paucity of education in the country. So, a program was introduced to change the situation. Change it did!! Ivan was pleasantly surprised and still now how at much the children wanted to attend school. “Everyone wanted to come unlike some I taught on return to Melbourne suburban schools” Support and enormous effort by the parents of the children using picks and
shovels and “bilums” [a woven “backpack”] to move soil by the parents of the students moved a mountain to create a playing field at the school. A passion for baseball amongst locals was a major legacy of occupation of New Britain by the US during and immediately after the war in the Pacific. Ivan, a major league baseballer with the Collingwood Magpies prior to his PNG days, is proud of his contribution as playing coach of a team of local technical college students. For a team of local students with limited exposure to the sport, winning a premiership in a competition dominated by teams from the Chinese community and expatriate Australians was a major triumph. Each village had their own church, and it was difficult to get ecumenical but slowly they came together and formed the United Church. Pacific Islanders love to sing and in general have amazing talents for harmony. Led by Reverend George Brown, early missionaries tapped inherent musical talent to introduce the universal eight note octave, establishing school, church and village choirs who took to the fourpart harmonies of the traditional Christian churches with enthusiasm and beautiful results. Choral festivals, most notably the annual George Brown Choir Day in New Britain, were the catalyst to overcome previous reluctance to unite peoples from throughout the islands. George Brown was not the only pioneer! Ivan and his father imported quality breeding stock goats into New Britain, locating them strategically at mission stations with hospitals and at secondary schools with agricultural
faculties. The introduction of meat and milk enhances traditional diets.The Peterson family were breeders of award-winning goats in Australia. Descendants of the “first fleet” are still to be found on the island. The town of Rabaul was destroyed in 2004 when the volcano erupted, and the capital re-established at Kokopo. In 1964, placing his trust in God, Ivan explored the volcano crater and was able to bring it to life again for us as he explained the terrain and the pungent sulphur smells. Rabaul (Bita Paka) war cemetery is today a peaceful place but during the Japanese invasion in 1942 the area was the main front for the coming attack on Australia. We saw the graves laid in military precision and a reminder of just how close to our shores a major attack was prevented by action on the Kokoda Track. Deep caves were dug into the hills along the coast and equipment secreted safe from bombing raids. The morning ended with community singing of a nursery rhyme in Pidgin English. Teacher Ivan came to the fore and all were encouraged to join in, with his wife Glenys playing the ukulele. PNG does not observe daylight savings but if they did in Tok Pisin it would be: Putim kilock e go poret wanpela aua = Put clock forward one hour Putim kilock e go longbek onepela aua = Put clock backwards one hour Concluding the day was an acclamation and memento to Ivan Peterson. The Probus Club meets at Whittlesea Bowling Club on the first Monday of the month and visitors are welcome.
· ·
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32 VicThe Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022 Probian Ad March 22_V2.indd 1
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Big things are happening at Palm Lake Resort Willow Lodge.
Big things are happening CONSTRUCTION is well underway on exciting new upgrades to Palm Lake Resort Willow Lodge’s community facilities on the back of a record surge in enquiry from over-50s looking for the security and support that lifestyle resorts like this one offers. Among the resort upgrades currently under construction are improvements to the community hall which will see the installation of a plush 60-seat movie cinema, an exclusive Milon gymnasium system, a heated indoor swimming pool, spa and other new activity rooms. Palm Lake Group managing director Scott Elliott said, when complete, the value of the improvements would be in the vicinity of $5-6 million. “With 44 years of history in developing and operating over-50s communities,
it’s important to our family company to continue to spend money on updating our resorts’ community facilities,” Scott says. “In a nutshell, these upgrades reflect directly on re-sale prices for our homeowners. Our residents also take great pride in their communities and we want to encourage that and make them feel proud to host their visiting friends and family members in their respective resort grounds.” Scott said Palm Lake Resort Willow Lodge was his family’s first foray into over50s community lifestyle resorts, purchased back in 1977. Since that time, Palm Lake Group now offers 28 locations across three states of Australia, including three greenfield sites that are currently in various stages of development approval. There are also six aged caring communities in the company portfolio.
“We are definitely in the business of building impressive homes for modern over-50s but, more so, we are in the business of building great communities. A big part of this comes with providing on-site social and sporting facilities that allow our homeowners to come together and enjoy each other’s company. “It’s important to note that we are always striving to improve and be better, to keep ourselves ahead of our competitors, but our main focus is on constantly completing facility upgrades and improvement projects to keep our property values and investment potential up,” he said. Exclusive Country Club will offer: Entertainment Sports Special Interest Facilities
· · ·
Successful year despite times REPRESENTING the Rotary Club of Noble Park - Dingley Sue Hilton conducted the AGM of the Probus Club of Dingley Central. In her opening remarks she said, “During the difficult days of the past two years in lockdown this club managed to keep members informed and supported”. It was a pleasure to see numbers at the AGM at pre-Covid levels. Membership numbers remained unchanged over the year. Rotarian Sue Hilton also observed, “Your list of activities is amazing interesting guest speakers at meetings, lunches, dinners, and morning teas, games days, film and live shows, craft, camera, computer and walking groups, trips away and in recent times a new wine group.“ She went on to say, “Although all members are important, how many community groups can claim to have City of Kingston Citizen of the Year in Ted Gibbs”. Out-going president, Ann Kilby summarised the “tumultuous year“ with half of the meetings held by Zoom and half face-to-face. She thanked all those who supported the club and wished the incoming president Tim Parkin well for a wonderful year ahead. Following Tim Parkin’s induction, he introduced the new committee and presented the past president with a
· Luxury Movie Theatre · Eight-rink Undercover Championship Lawn Bowls Green (with separate club house)
· Sauna · Milon gymnasium · Fully Equipped Workshops · Community Gardens · Yoga · Meditation · Tai Chi To find out more about the improvements happening at Palm Lake Resort Willow Lodge or to learn more please contact the sales consultant at Willow Lodge, Jan Tandy.
· willowlodge@palmlake.com.au · 1800 974 981
15th Birthday celebrations COMBINED Probus Club of Beaconsfield celebrated its15th Birthday with the cutting of the cake by Sydney Swaby and Jan Hunter at the March Annual General Meeting,
Dingley Central Probus members gather for a drink and nibbles during Happy Hour. certificate of appreciation. Embracing the philosophy of Probus - Friendship, Fellowship and Fun, the new president said this year he would like to emphasise “fun”. A few days earlier the club enjoyed fellowship at their monthly 5pm Happy Hour. This activity is hosted by different members in homes that have suitable access.
Rotarian Sue Hilton presents the Chain of Office to the newly elected president, Tim Parkin. Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 33
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First outing for the year MEMBERS of the Pakenham East Probus Group, had its first outing of the year. A visit to the Ambulance Victoria Museum in Bayswater. What an interesting place of history. The Museum has an amazing collection of vehicles and paraphernalia. A delicious morning tea was provided for the group and enjoyed by all. Afterwards, lunch at the Ferntree Gully Club Hotel topped off a very interesting outing. Thank you Joan Vogels, for organising the outing.
Fostering trust - it’s first love for a Golden Oldie HAVE you ever felt the heart-thump of love at first sight? Every year at Lort Smith’s Adoption Centre, they see it when one of their 600 animals finds a new home. Mila and Cassandra had one of those happy beginnings. 10 year old Mila was surrendered by her family to Lort Smith during lockdown. Mila had various health issues: her teeth weren’t good, and her front legs were underdeveloped. In addition, she had Cushing’s disease, a metabolic syndrome that made her put on weight and made fighting infection difficult. The medical team treated Mila’s health problems and finally it was time to find Mila’s forever human. Cassandra had fostered dogs for years and loved them until they were adopted. During lockdown, she felt ready to bring a dog into her life permanently. She saw Mila on Lort Smith’s website and says; “Lort Smith asked me whether I was willing to take on Mila’s health issues and support her.” She went on to say “I’m glad they checked because people adopting an older dog need to be mindful of their changing needs. “ Cassandra adopted Mila, knowing that she was her forever dog but Mila was aloof and afraid when she first went to 34 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
Mila and Cassandra. live with her. Slowly, with encouragement, Mila learned that her new home was safe and loving. Cassandra says, “The first time she grabbed a new toy and brought
Mila it to me was massive. There’s something really special about that love, because it’s not a given. You have to earn it. It’s a real honour to be loved by an older dog.”
If you’re looking for your own Mila, call Lort Smith on 03 9287 6426 or visit the website: adoptions@lortsmith.com You never know who might win you heart!
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Moving on with the times AS part of the Australian Aged Care Group, Kew Gardens Aged Care has been providing aged care services to Australia since the 1960s. Their Extra Service residential care facility provides exceptional care built on solid foundations. Kew Gardens strives to ensure our residents maintain a strong connection with the surrounding community while receiving high quality aged care services. They also boast a top class Lifestyle team who provides a vibrant and varied program of activities to maintain and prolong confidence in one’s physical abilities, mobility, strength and fitness. Their aim is to increase individual health as well as socialisation with others to enhance each person’s self-esteem. They haven’t missed a “beat“ over the pandemic years either by introducing a new Drumming Program last year. Cardio drumming has taken off at Kew Gardens, taking a simple movement – drumming – and turning it into a full-body
workout that will leaves residents smiling and feeling great! It brings together drumsticks, an exercise ball, and an exercise ball stand to create one of the most fun workouts the residents have ever experienced, and … drumroll … it’s been a winner! Zumba classes - also a feature at the facility - have also been called “exercise in disguise” and for good reason, these classes burn calories, improve heart health, and reduces stress. It’s another great favourite of the residents adding even further to their health and wellbeing. Chair Tai Chi was also introduced at the residents’ request. It’s chair-based and focuses on muscle control, stability and flexibility with the movements being very gentle. All activities and exercise regimes at Kew Gardens Aged Care are delivered with much laughter and smiles! The mantra being: “A happy resident, is a healthy resident!“
A happy resident, is a healthy resident.
36 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
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Heron Island.
Uluru, Kings Canyon, Alice Springs.
By coach, rail, cruise and air FUN Over 50 Holidays is a multi-awardwinning Australian owned and operated company providing guests 50 years and over, incredible experiences on coach, rail, cruise, and air holiday packages. The company’s mission is to make a positive difference to people’s lives and the places and people where they visit. To offer guests hassle free, FUN, and immersive experiences and adventures, enabling them to connect and interact with the people and places visited. To leave the local communities and natural environments in which they operate a better place than when they arrived. Truly all-inclusive, offering outstanding value, discover icons of Australia and beyond! Visiting every state and territory of Australia and select international destinations, with a portfolio of over 175 Advanced Eco Certified holiday packages, you will be spoilt for choice. Fun Over 50 Holidays takes coach touring to a new level of luxury with its custom built `Gold Class’ and `Diamond Class’ coaches. Designed in iconic gold and diamond pearlescent colours, the fleet has become a synonymous symbol for the company and luxury coach tours. Diamond Class coach tours, affectionately known as “Business Class on Wheels,” offers guests an opulent experience including a red-carpet entry, galley kitchen, WIF, his and hers toilets, and extra wide leather reclining seats with lumbar support, footrests and more. Fun Over 50 Holidays developed their ‘Our People & Planet Program’ which has evolved to provide vital support to the
Outback Queensland, Central West and Gulf. many communities and projects where they operate. The program includes The Green Bank - a trust contributing to multiple wildlife, nature, and heritage conservation projects.
Fun Over 50 Holidays has been the recipient of some 31 state and national tourism, sustainability, and conservation awards. The company employs local community specialist tour guides and
interpreters, ensuring an authentic, and immersive experience for their guests, and employment and cultural heritage preservation in the communities where they operate.
Come and experience historic Walhalla Goldfields SPEND an unforgettable day with the family at Walhalla Goldfields Railway. Relax and take in the breathtaking views as the train winds its way through the spectacular Stringers Gorge on what is considered one of the country’s most picturesque rail journeys. Departing the historic Walhalla Station on your one-hour journey you will travel through the station yards with the sheer, stunning cliff face on one side and the winding Stringers Creek on the other side. Winding through the gorge past Happy Creek Station on your way towards Thomson Station you cross seven bridges which in themselves are a marvel of engineering before reaching the spectacular Thomson River bridge.
Upon arrival at Thomson Station passengers disembark and have the opportunity to peruse the station and surroundings before re-boarding for your return journey. Ask about our Walhalla Experience packages which can be tailored to suit your groups’ requirements! Trains operate Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday weekly. Individual bookings can be made at: www.walhallarail.com.au For more information phone: 0351 656 280 Please note that due to current restrictions all passengers over the age of 18 years must be fully vaccinated and provide proof of this when checking in.
Breathtaking views on board the Walhalla Goldfields Railway. Monday, 18 April, 2022 The Victorian Probian 37
news Overcoming her greatest fear has taken ABC-TV’s Lisa Millar around the world. And she says she owes so much to her country upbringing. Veteran journalist ERLE LEVEY, who grew up in Kooweerup and now calls the Sunshine Coast home, caught up with the Melbourne-based presenter recently. dience An au 00* of 57,0 people
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38 The Victorian Probian Monday, 18 April, 2022
Learning to fly WE’VE all got them. Some of them are shared. Fears. ABC News Breakfast co-host Lisa Millar’s was a fear of flying. It goes to show you never know what life will deliver. Lisa grew up in the small Queensland town of Kilkivan, between Gympie and Kingaroy, and while she hoped for a career in journalism, she never imagined her dream job would come true - let alone that she’d soar to such heights. Travelling the world for Foreign Correspondent, Lisa became the ABC’s bureau chief in London and Washington DC, as well as working in New York. Starting her career at The Gympie Times in 1988, she has worked in print, TV and radio, winning a Walkley Award for investigative reporting in 2005. Yet it was a fear of flying that threatened to hold her back. Having grown up with aeroplanes as the way to get around, it was a nerve-wracking flight in North Queensland that shattered her confidence. That flight, and the way in which she has overcome that fear, are the basis of her first book, the acclaimed Daring to Fly. It also brings to light the enjoyment of her career and the thankfulness of a country upbringing. In her book she outlines her fears, and her journey towards overcoming them. It was in 1993 while working as the ABC’s North Queensland reporter, and the six-seater chartered plane was caught in a heavy storm. “While rain was lashing my window, there was a sudden loss of power and the motor on the left spluttered and died. The drop in altitude hit my gut so fast my brain couldn’t understand what was happening. “The engine on the right revved like mad trying to keep us airborne. “We made it safely to the ground but I was shaken by the experience. “After that, fear began stalking me. It was in the shadows initially, but it slowly became a constant, aggressive presence.’’ The turning point in Lisa’s career was doing a fear of flying course. “That’s the moment when my world opened up. “If I had not had that level of fear - it just stops you from doing anything. I thought my world would shut down. “However, this cannot control our lives. “Instead, it was the start of a whole new chapter. “Once you recover from a fear you are so empowered, it feels like you can do anything. “I’ve gone on to complete an Olympic distance triathlon,’’ she laughs. Fear of anything can bring people down. It is capable of bringing us to our knees or, at the very least, preventing us from moving forward. Lisa’s sense of fear was bringing her undone... taking away her opportunity to embark on the career that would set her life on track. She overcame it and changed her path through life. In moments of defying her greatest fear and embarking on something as giving
Daring To Fly by Lisa Millar.
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as writing a book, it has helped Lisa to concentrate on the benefit for others. “It has led to a life far beyond what I could have imagined. “I remember when Jason Donovan sat on the couch in the News Breakfast studio for an interview, I caught my 16-year-old self wondering if this would happen to me. “I have found myself standing outside Windsor Castle when Harry and Meghan got married - I was inside the walls but outside the castle. “I have been fortunate to see some of the most incredible moments in history.’’ The role as co-host with Michael Rowland on News Breakfast was not one she applied for. “It sought me out, and I’m working with people I have the highest regard for. “There are moments I allow myself to have a giggle on the inside. It’s illegal, the amount of enjoyment it can bring.’’ Now based in Melbourne for her work, Lisa tells me the book came about because of being in a new city, and it being in complete Covid lockdown. “The publishers had requested previously that I write a book. “This time round I thought I would give it a try. “I’m so glad I did. It filled in so much background on the ABC, what goes on behind the scenes. “I just had to get over this fear of flying. That was an incredible experience in itself. “It shows just how powerful the mind is. It gave me a greater understanding of the job. “I talk about the possible trauma one can face, yet I have had a life full of joy.’’ Having worked in the Federal Press Gallery in Canberra for the ABC, including during the 1996 Federal Election campaign, Lisa moved back to Queensland where she became ABC’s state political reporter. She was part of the team that won the 2005 Walkley Award for Investigative Journalism for the story that discovered Vivian Solon in the Philippines.
news Solon was an Australian who had been unlawfully removed to the Philippines by the Department of Immigration and Multicultural and Indigenous Affairs in July 2001. Particularly poignant was when she was sent, in 2005, to cover the execution of Australian drug trafficker Van Nguyen in Singapore. The despair at witnessing such events saw Lisa become involved with the Dart Centre for Journalism and Trauma, which works to promote discussion, develop training, and exchange specialist knowledge on the most challenging of media issues. In 2007, she was awarded an Ochberg Fellowship for assisting journalists who experience grief or trauma. “You need to be really careful on how it impacts each of us, it keeps chipping away. “Suddenly it can knock you flat. I’ve been very passionate about being aware of that.’’ Starting out at a regional newspaper means you have to be a jack of all trades, Lisa reflects - write the words and take the photos, cover court proceedings and the police rounds. “You develop a closeness to the audience. “People would hand-deliver news items for the paper. “I can still remember the sound of their footsteps as they walked up the stairs.’’ The response to Lisa’s book, Daring To Fly, has been brilliant. “I’m so thrilled. I wondered who would care about my life. “I wanted to share that joy of my childhood in a country town in Australia. “Even when I had finished the manuscript, I was not convinced we should go ahead. “That’s when the publishers told me: ’Leave that with us’. “It’s been a great response, especially in this environment. “What struck me was the wide range of people who have read the book and connected in some way - some with country, some with the fear of flying, others with the trauma of covering some of the worst stories in the world. “Then there are others who love the behind-the-scenes look at jetting around the world. “I held three passports at one stage. “I will never watch Foreign Correspondent again without remembering the grounding it gave me. It was 12 years overseas but they were like dog years. You did everything, anywhere, any time.’’ Encouragement for her book came from 7.30 host Leigh Sales, who often remarked that Lisa’s childhood growing up in country Queensland would make for good material. It also came from a podcast that Mia Freedman did with author Sally Hepworth. “Sally said she would get out of bed and write a few hundred words before she even had a cup of coffee or tea. “Then, if you wrote nothing more for the rest of the day, you’d at least have those few hundred.’’ That brings us to Muster Dogs, the beautiful four-part ABC-TV series that follows five kelpie puppies, from the same litter, on their journey to become muster dogs. Lisa narrates the series in which the pups are sent to five graziers around Australia who each try to get them up to speed in just 12 months. “What an amazing show, but I can claim no credit for that,’’ she confides. “It was such a labour of love by a small team. I came in at the end and did the narration. “I’m so glad they gave me that privilege... the joy it has brought people. “Every morning people send in pictures
of their dogs watching Muster Dogs on their screens. “That is the warm hug we all need right now. “It’s been such a tough couple of years. “This allows people to breathe, to relax into something - something not difficult to absorb. “It just gave comfort.’’ As well as Muster Dogs, Lisa has been a guest presenter on five or six editions of Back Roads, which explores outback communities around Australia. Two episodes that stand out are the Flinders Ranges, in South Australia and the central highlands in Tasmania. Said to be perhaps the oldest mountain range in the world, the Flinders Ranges episode held so many surprises - from the earliest of fossils to the amazing native wildlife and views of the stars. “We covered 1500km while filming, it was so amazing. “Then the central highlands in Tasmania... I loved being involved, to get out and talk to people away from the studio. “What is interesting is that recently I got to MC a conference on regional journalism and where it was heading. “It was to be held at Tamworth, to coincide with the Walkley Awards which were being taken to regional centres. “Covid derailed that - but it was held on Zoom. “I was dreading it, but it uplifted and inspired me. “I am really excited about what is achievable in country news gathering.’’ Lisa went to school in Kilkivan, then moved to the “big smoke’’ of Gympie to finish her primary years. “I was terrified,“ she recalls. “The funny thing is Gympie keeps popping up in so many stories. “Even here on News Breakfast. The team think I plant the stories in the news list.’’ That brings us to the big question. Who will be the replacement for Leigh Sales on 7.30? “You are not the first to ask that. “The short answer is... it’s not the job for me. I was going to say - at this time but no. “Leigh is such a close friend, and I know the pressure that comes with the role. “Saying that, Leigh has done a masterful job. “The decision on Leigh’s replacement won’t be made until after the next news director is appointed, “It’s a massively open field, a fantastic field to choose from, but I’ve had a taste and it doesn’t suit right now.’’ Despite more and more women taking major roles in the media, there are still issues with the amount of focus being placed on how they dress, rather than their ability. That comes through in social media, and Lisa deactivated her Twitter account in 2021 due to the amount of bullying and trolling. “Social media is so much more intense,’’ she warns. “It can be a really interesting place to dive into, but it’s also toxic and you need to be conscious of the impact, the exposure. “People speak on-line not as they would in person, and that can be brutal. “You need to know when to step back, remind yourself it is not a majority view. “Being in the public eye, I take an optimistic view of how good people are. It’s a positive experience. “You can be sitting outside the studio and people will walk by saying: ’I love your work Lisa.’
ABC presenter Lisa Millar.
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Country Australia is so important to me, I would hate to lose the grounding it gave me. I’m so privileged. It’s a matter of wanting to give back to the kinds of people who nurtured me.’’ “I love the ABC and want people to love it. I think we are doing something right. “The News Breakfast audience has grown. “The feedback we get in a topsy-turvy world is that viewers see us sitting there... so comfortable. “I see it about hitting the right note with the program. “It’s a very happy home for me.’’ Speaking of home, Lisa loves getting back to the Gympie region and remembers family holidays of her childhood in Noosa with $1 hamburgers. Although rising at 3am each weekday morning to host the News Breakfast show can be demanding - and Lisa only gets a glimpse of the sun out of the window each day - it highlights the opportunities that
come her way. She welcomes the chance to get back to Queensland for the Writers Out West festival. It means a long but exciting trek on Friday, to fly from Melbourne to Brisbane and then out to Dalby. Her older sister Wendy is coming along as well for the road trip. “Country Australia is so important to me, I would hate to lose the grounding it gave me. “I’m so privileged. It’s a matter of wanting to give back to the kinds of people who nurtured me.’’ Lisa Millar’s story demonstrates that we are all stronger and more resilient than we give ourselves credit for. It’s just a matter of allowing ourselves the opportunity to fly.
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