By Samantha Wantling
On 28 November, Stanthorpe witnessed a joyous celebration as Probus marked its 15th birthday.
Nick Hese, the current president, extended a warm welcome to over 50 attendees, including special guests such as Jim Barnes, the current president of Rotary Stanthorpe.
Notably, it was the Stanthorpe Rotary Club that originally chartered the Probus club. Despite the evolution of times allowing Probus clubs to sponsor new ones, the enduring bond between Stanthorpe Rotary and the local Probus club still remains.
The celebratory gathering unfolded at the RSL, where a sizable cake set the tone for a delightful morning enriched by engaging guest speakers. Among these speakers, Jim presented a special award to the club for its 15 years.
Mal Pidgeon, the inaugural Probus president accepted the award on behalf of the club. In his following address, Mal reminisced about the club’s inception, revealing his determination to organise an inaugural meeting if 30 individuals expressed interest. The response exceeded expectations, with 81 people indicating their intention to join the new Probus club.
Thus, the journey commenced at the Anglican Hall in November 2008, with Doug Smith as treasurer, Colleen Easterman as secretary, and Mal Pidgeon as president. Douglas Geekie, Probus director for the Rotary District, chaired the inaugural meeting, making the event a historic milestone for the growing community.
The club’s growth was swift, marked by a sense of novelty and excitement. Members revelled in the spirit of fun, friendship, and fellowship, principles that endure to this day.
Another notable moment during the morning was the presentation of the 10-year award certificate, acknowledging the recipients unwavering dedication and loyal service in embodying the true essence of Probus—fun, fellowship, and friendship.
The awardees of these accolades included Angelo Giacosa, Elaine Griffiths, Denise and Rob Hilton, Connie and Sam Puglisi, Pam O’Malley, Eileen and John Williamson, all of whom have made significant contributions to the flourishing community.
Probus convenes on the 4th Tuesday of each month at the RSL at 9:30, providing retirees and semi retirees with a valuable opportunity to socially connect—an increasingly crucial aspect of today’s world. Membership is open to anyone retired or semi-retired. The Club offers an array of activities, from trips to outings, tailored to members’ interests, lifestyles, and locations.
Becoming a member not only opens avenues to forge new friendships but also offers opportunities to acquire new skills and explore diverse interests and hobbies. As Probus continues to thrive, the club beckons individuals to join this vibrant community, where the joy of shared experiences remains at the heart of every gathering.
