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Welcome to the June edition of Probus West – the magazine that highlights the many social events, fun times and news from around our clubs. We hope you will enjoy this issue and will contribute to our next issue.

PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WA. INC. (PAWA) ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING – Thursday, 30th March, 2017

The Annual General Meeting of the Probus Association of Western Australia was held on Thursday, 30th March 2017 at the Swan Yacht Club on the Swan River in East Fremantle. Some 45 clubs were represented by 90 members, and apologies were received from clubs unable to attend. Congratulations to Rex McKell of Victoria Park and Thornlie Clubs on being elected President for 2017/18. Darrell Williams of Murdoch Probus Club is continuing in the role of Secretary, and Sandy Clarkson of Mosman Park Probus Club as Treasurer. Marie Bolt from Vasse Probus Club was elected 1st Vice President and Jenny McCaughan from Thornlie and Gosnells Clubs is our new 2nd Vice President. Committee members are: Graeme Brown (Combined Probus Club of Leeming), Fairley Watson (Melville Combined Probus Club), Patricia Owens (Rossmoyne Ladies’ Probus Club), Ed Reed (Ellenbrook Probus Club), Barry Tanner (Booragoon Men’s Probus Club), and Peter Way (The Probus Club of Kingsley). We seek a minute secretary to assist Darryl and a bookkeeper to assist Sandy. Please consider offering your assistance. Elizabeth Hardy will fill the role of immediate Past President. Barry Tanner is continuing as editor of News and Notes. Trish Floyd will continue as editor of Probus West. Len Henderson of the Melville Combined Probus Club has been appointed auditor. Many of you will remember Len as he served PAWA as treasurer for many years. The venue is currently undergoing renovations but that did not dampen the enthusiasm of those present. We were served a delicious lunch whilst taking in the view of our beautiful Swan River and its surrounds. When the renovations have finished this will be a top class venue.

EDITOR: TRISH FLOYD MAIL TO: 103A STOCK RD, ATTADALE, 6156

EMAIL: rpfloyd@westnet.com.au

PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL FOR PROBUS USE ONLY AND NOT TO BE USED FOR ANY OTHER PURPOSE

SEPTEMBER EDITION WILL CLOSE ON 15TH AUGUST, 2017

PROBUS WEST PUBLISHED BY PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WA FOR MEMBERS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA

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Betty Saw has retired from the PAWA Management Committee after twelve years of very valuable service to Probus. Betty and Geoff Saw were guests at the PAWA Annual General Meeting on the 30th March, where outgoing President Elizabeth Hardy spoke glowingly of Betty and her important works for PAWA, before presenting her with a large bouquet of flowers. Betty is well known to many Probians in WA. She joined the PAWA Committee in 2005 as Secretary to support her friend Lois Bown, who was the then PAWA President. Betty remained on the committee and was a very competent Secretary and able supporter of the next eight PAWA Presidents. When in 2014 she decided to give up the Secretary position, she continued to be very actively involved by handling the registrations for Probus events and banking the payments. In addition, she managed the email lists and sent out News and Notes each month and Probus West each quarter. Her energy was tireless. Over twelve years on the PAWA Committee, Betty has communicated and helped many Probus members in her roles as Secretary and as Assistant Treasurer. When asked for help or to advise, she always responded positively. It is only now when Betty is approaching the wonderful age of ninety that she thinks, as she is heard to say, ‘time to hang up the spurs and sheath the pen’. Both Betty and Geoff will remain active in their own Probus clubs of Bannister Creek and Canning Vale. Betty has been a great contributor to Probus in WA. Her contribution to PAWA will be really missed.

CITY BEACH PROBUS CLUB ENJOY ITS VISIT TO THE PINES, BENTLEY

We all had a great time. It was so very social, with everyone enjoying the camaraderie of our members and their wives, who all generously give their time and energy to the club. The menu was first class, all courses most enjoyable. The dining room is becoming very popular with similar organizations covering all of Perth and rightly so, if the students attending and serving us continue their career as they have been taught, then we will enjoy more dining out in the future. Well done John Pearce, the effort you have made is appreciated by all participants.

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FREMANTLE PRISON VISITED BY BOORAGOON MEN’S PROBUS

In 2010, Fremantle Prison became the first building in WA to be included on the World Heritage List. On 8th March, 23 members and partners of the Booragoon Men's Club enjoyed a most enjoyable outing with the Prison the main, but not only, item of interest. The outing commenced with car pooling and distribution of coins for parking. After a short drive to Fremantle, we were treated to our own dedicated guided tour under the expert guide Justin, who enlarged on the varied and often gruesome history of the buildings. Construction originally began in 1851 by convict labour under the supervision of the Royal Engineers. Limestone mined on the site and iron salvaged from convict transport ships were utilised for the building. The first to be hanged there was a 15 year old boy in 1844. The last executed was notorious murderer Eric Cooke, in 1964. The Prison closed in 1991. Pages would be required to cover all the stories and facts covering so many years. It is therefore recommended that anyone interested should take one of the several regular tours conducted each day. The next event was a tour in our own dedicated Fremantle tourist "tram" around some of the interesting heritage sites in Fremantle. This tour stopped at the Fishing Boat Harbour where we partook of fish and chips, tea or coffee and ice cream. We then boarded another tram, which completed the tour of Fremantle sites before returning us to the Prison in order to retrieve our vehicles. Photos show our group at the Prison entrance, long time member Stuart receiving a rather gentle lashing from Merv and a rather sombre viewing of "the long drop". Outings Officer, Merv Peters, is to be congratulated on such a well-planned and interesting outing.

FLOREAT LADIES’ PROBUS CLUB

This picture shows Outgoing President Cynthia Tayor doing up the Presidential chain on the club’s newly elected President Mary Ann Hart.

 

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Gerard served in the Dutch Army from August 1939 until October 1949 and in 2009 was presented with his service medals by The Deputy Head of Mission for The Kingdom of the Netherlands who had travelled from Canberra especially for the occasion and who quipped that 'although it was somewhat belated, it was better late than never'. The ceremony, which was held at the City of Melville, was also attended by the Dutch Honorary Consul, Deputy Mayor of the City of Melville, representatives of various groups with which Gerard is associated and, of course, his family and friends. The Dutch Choir gave several musical renditions including the Dutch and Australian National Anthems and finished with "We still call Australia Home". Also present were a number of his Probus friends, including the writer. Gerard is very modest about his service during the war and his contributions to Australia since. Space precludes doing him justice, but the following gives an indication of his experiences. Gerard’s initial training was with the horse-drawn artillery. Shortly before the German invasion in May 1940, he was promoted to Corporal of the mounted 70mm artillery. A subsequent battle resulted in heavy losses for the Dutch at the hands of the Germans who had superior equipment. Gerard managed to escape capture and became a 'loner' sabotaging German trucks etc. His underground activities included spying on the enemy and providing information for the Allies. He was caught for spying and was to be executed but managed to escape during an air attack. He later saw action in Java as a 2nd Lieutenant, was demobilized in October 1949 and immigrated with his wife and daughter to Australia. The years since migrating to Perth have seen Gerard and his wife Anna, work towards building a business to provide for their growing family of 4 children and their futures. Gerard was a builder and Anna was the planner and together they built a successful property business. Anna, their daughter, now has continued with the business while Gerard can enjoy participating in many community activities as well as editing the monthly Combined Attadale Probus newsletter. Definitely Australia's gain. Congratulations to Gerard and his family.

GERARD WOERLEE CELEBRATES HIS 98th BIRTHDAY AT THE MEN’S CLUB OF BOORAGOON’S ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, MARCH 2017

In common with other clubs, the Men's Probus Club of Booragoon (WA) held its AGM in March. What made it different was that our most senior member, Gerard Woerlee, had just celebrated his 98th birthday. I use the term "senior" not to be politically correct but because there is no way that Gerard could be described as old. Gerard has an incredibly full and interesting history.

MEET FIRST VICE PRESIDENT OF PAWA, MARIE BOLT

I am from New Zealand but I married a West Australian and came to Perth in 1958. A new medical school had recently opened and I had an introduction to the Department of Haematology, pregnancy intervened and at that time that made one unemployable. I am grateful now that I had several years at home with my young children. I re-commenced my working life in the late 60s. I was introduced to Probus over 20 years ago and have enjoyed the fellowship and friendship of so many of you, Now on my own, Probus activities have reinforced the important link that it plays for many of us at this time of our lives.  

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THE PROBUS CLUB OF FREMANTLE WA (Inc.) 35th ANNIVERSARY MEETING IN

MAY 2017

There were 76 people present to join in the 35th Anniversary of the formation of our club in May 1982, the second club started in the state. To enhance the day, we combined it with our Special Visitors’ Day. The Special Visitors are the widows of past members. Included in the number present at the meeting were the six Special Visitors, seven of the nine prospective members, five partners of members and two Liaison Visitors.

By 8:30am there was a team of 11 members helping to set up the restaurant room and this number increased to over 20 by 9:00am to ensure everything was ready for the 10:00am start. Because of the way that the Galley Restaurant was arranged on that day, the 80+ people expected would have had difficulty seeing the projector screen. A team rapidly rearranged the room to ensure that all present could comfortably see the screen for the Guest Speaker presentation.

Starting in 2011, our club has had a day where the widows of past members are invited to a meeting. The occasion originally was called The Widows’ Day. However since becoming a combined club in 2013, it was necessary to rename it The Special Visitors’ Day as it is possible in the future that a widower may be invited. The purpose of the day is to give the opportunity for the guests to catch up with friends of old whom they knew when they attended social functions of the club over the years.

In 2013 the induction of the first ladies to join the club, purposely was held on a Widows’ Day. Six ladies were simultaneously inducted so as all could claim to be the first lady to join. Included in the induction was a widow who joined to catch up regularly with the long term friends of her late husband. One of the widows at that 2013 Widows Day saw the ladies being inducted and also joined the club.

There are 21 ladies on our list of widows but many have medical issues affecting mobility and physically cannot attend. This year seven widows accepted the invitation, and six were able to visit on the day. Most wore their original Probus name badges issued many years ago as Probus has meant so much to them. Several of the ladies previously were members of the now disbanded Fremantle Ladies Probus Club.

One of the Special Visitors met the author later in the week whilst shopping. She wanted to express her gratitude for the Club putting on the special morning and how much all the widows enjoyed it. Her daughter chipped in with, “and we had to count the ships as we drove up the coast.” Guest Speaker Andrew who spoke on financial planning, explained that he counts the ships anchored offshore as one indicator of the financial wellbeing of the state. The more ships anchored is a sign of better prosperity for the state. His message was not lost on this sprightly 91 year old lady.  

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BOORAGOON LADIES’ AND MEN’S CLUBS VISIT THE CASINO The Ladies' and Men’s Clubs of Booragoon (WA) have combined yet again for a most enjoyable outing to The Crown Casino at Burswood. Forty members and partners boarded a luxury coach for transportation to the Casino on a beautiful April morning. On arrival, all received a booklet entitling them to one Keno game, $3 extended play on the gaming machines, a voucher for the return trip, and, most importantly, a voucher for an all you can eat outstanding buffet in the Carvers Restaurant. All this for for an unbelievable (no, not $10) but an amazing $5 each. We even received 2 small Easter eggs each for the return journey. The Outings Officers for the two Clubs, Lyn Chamberlain and Merv Peters, are to be congratulated on such a most successful combined outing. The photo shows the eager participants about to leave the departure point.

   

BELMONT DISTRICT’S EASTER MORNING TEA

   The Belmont District Probus Club held an Easter Morning Tea on Wednesday April 12. There was an assortment of Easter hats the judging of which was done by one of our visitors at the meeting. The Auxiliary Committee ladies did a marvellous job of decorating the tables with eggs, flowers, etc., while Easter Bunny handed out eggs and kisses, and his helper also gave out fresh carrots. A fun morning was had by one and all present.

 

 

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MARGARET RIVER PROBUS VISITS THE COLONIAL BREWERY

       

THE MEN'S PROBUS CLUB OF BOORAGOON was privileged to have two special visitors at our April Meeting. Both Winston Marsh and Ian Murray have had distinguished careers. They have also devoted much time to Rotary and Probus, not to mention many other community activities. Winston is a member of the Attadale Club and in June, will be retiring after 3 years' service as Representative Member/Director for WA on the board of Probus South Pacific. His work on our behalf has been much appreciated.

From July, Ian, Secretary of the Noranda Combined Club, will be taking over this position. The number of Ian's community activities and awards is incredible. As our Liaison Officer Maurie Foster said in his introduction, ' if you want a job well done - get a busy man to do it'. We wish Ian all the best in his new role (for which he shows impressive enthusiasm and ability). Both gentlemen addressed the meeting and made time, at our usual terrific morning tea, to talk to members who wished to raise any Probus matters they might be able to help with. The photo L-R shows Winston, our President Phil Smith and Ian.

MARGARET RIVER PROBUS CLUB outing for April was to the Colonial Brewery, five minutes outside of the town. The Colonial brews its own varieties of beer and following a lovely lunch, a few members were taken around to see the brewing process. There was lots of fun and laughter enjoyed by us all.

 

THE MELVILLE COMBINED PROBUS CLUB has been meeting at the Leopold Hotel in Bicton for casual lunches. The Leopold offers delicious food at a very reasonable cost - $15 Steaks, $11 Fish and Chips, Calamari etc.

A MacDonalds shop is situated next door and one time we had coffee and icecreams there. Some of us were unable to play on the playground equipment because we did not have permission from our parents!

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THE BEGINNING OF NORTH SHORE LADIES’ CLUB – MEMORIES FROM DOROTHY LEWIS

Thirty years ago, Lorna Ryan who was WA President of Probus, opened our club. It was the first club on the Northern Shores and so it became our name. It was an exciting day when we met at the Karrinyup Inn. The organization provided the morning tea, which was varied and appetizing. We had no problems filling the committee, as everyone was willing to have a go.

As time went on, I became President, and one day, after no conclusion was given to the venue of an outing, for a joke I said, “Why don’t we go to Alice Springs”. Well, “What a great idea” was the response and so we went! What an outing – it cemented friendships and laughter, all thought Probus was great.

We hired a big bus with Kevin Forde as driver, invited other clubs and finished up with a full bus. One man of eighty years came with his new wife as part of their honeymoon. Betty Hewitt and Peg Fiest arranged a simple quiz, I was in charge of charades, and my costume was “Did you see a dream walking”. You can imagine how I looked! Jess Shortland Jones (cousin of Nell) sang and entertained us and members contributed.

On the way we stayed at various hotels so we had a good night’s sleep. Usually there was a piano so I played for our sing-a-longs.

We duly arrived in Alice Springs and had our first set back. Our booked accommodation had been given to the Japanese and we were put in the back packers area. Not too pleased! We ate in a rough tin shed with a wood fire heater in the back corner, and drank out of paper cups. In true Probus fashion we decided to make the best of it and we did.

There were dingoes roaming around and the Lindy Chamberlain affair was fresh in our minds. No one wanted to use the toilet at night. Queenie Walsh was desperate (her husband Vin Walsh was the first weather man on TV). In true Probus style, looking after our mates, we found Queenie an empty prune tin and away she went for a good night’s sleep. Unfortunately the tin leaked, so there was a story to tell.

Kevin got a great surprise one morning when he opened the coach and found bras and knickers hanging from every conceivable hook. They hadn’t dried overnight!

We went to Ayers Rock, (Uluru) and walked around: Some had thoughts of climbing. We went to the Casino and I won a fair amount – shared it up and then we went home. A very nice man offered to take us – Eddie Johnson, and he later joined the Doubleview Club as a bowler.

NORTHERN SHORE LADIES’ CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF PROBUS

Our club had a lovely birthday morning tea in April to celebrate thirty years of Probus. Thanks to all the ladies who helped with the sandwiches, and to Gloria for organizing the delicious cake. Thanks also to Phoebe, Dorothy, Carole and Joy for giving us some insight into the early days of our Club.

We are sharing some memories of our beginning years and hope you will enjoy them. Dorothy Lewis and Phoebe Smith, our Life Members, have supplied their stories.

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BOORAGOON MEN’S AND LADIES’ LUNCH AT THE PINES It has been a tradition of the members and partners of the Men's Booragoon Club to regularly enjoy a lunch at the TAFE Pines Restaurant in Bentley. On 10th May we were delighted to be joined by members and partners of the Ladies' Club of Booragoon. The total of our 59 participants practically filled the whole establishment. Once again, the standard of the food and service was outstanding. This was another most pleasant outing with fun, food and fellowship.  

We set off to Coober Pedy, but the road was flooded and we had to go the long way around so our visit was short. Home at last and back to something normal.

Eventually the meeting place changed to the Doubleview Bowling Club. We’ve had many happy days at the club; dinners, quizzes, guest speakers, and entertainment of all sorts. The profiles in our newsletters are most interesting and the baskets of goodies prepared by Gloria are well received. Our club is flourishing with great interaction from enthusiastic members.

THE EARLY DAYS – MEMORIES FROM PHOEBE SMITH

Shortly after retiring from working at the Karrinyup Country Club, I joined Probus. We had a membership of 85 and there was a waiting list. When the Karrinyup Club was formed shortly afterwards, some of those from our waiting list joined them. Everything was done very formally then. No one was volunteering for Secretary so it was handed to me. Our first venue was the Karrinyup Club, which was located in what is now a parking area. Each month there was a meeting and an outing. We visited various places around Perth. The Christmas lights were very popular as an outing. Nanette Herbert and I were involved in organizing what is now the Annual Quiz day

CITY BEACH PROBUS CLUB’S VISIT TO THE HARRY PERKINS INSTITUTE

Thanks to Kevin Turner, all members had an interesting and worthwhile time. We are all so grateful that our local medical scientists at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research work so hard to treat cancer, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It is a unique research Centre, working at a cellular level. They hope to succeed with discoveries that will help defeat a wide range of diseases. Like all institutions, the Institute needs extra money, and our community helps, as our members did on the day. Some examples – the MACA cyclist ride to conquer cancer, which has raised more the $4 million; the Hawaiian Walk for Women’s Cancer – one day, 30km or 40km through the streets of Perth are two examples of such organisations. The next paragraph is a repeat of the dedicated words from the Institute Director, Professor Peter Leedman.

“At Perkins, we have world-class facilities and teams of internationally renowned, highly skilled researchers and doctors. We are uniquely positioned to fast track the development of new treatments, quick diagnosis methods and tests that enable doctors to select the best approach for each patient. We believe that one day with support of our community, and corporate partners, we will be able to provide better health outcomes for everyone”.

If you have a chance, visit the Perkins Institute – take the rewarding opportunity.

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VILLA GOLDEN OUTBACK PROBUS GATHERING TOUR

Twentythree probians from twelve clubs set off on the Villa Golden Outback gathering tour to Hyden, Esperance and Kalgoorlie. The weather was wet in Perth but on arrival in Corrigin for lunch, we were greeted by the smiles on the faces of the locals, as the rain was needed so that sowing could commence! We enjoyed a meal at the café and a walk around the town before we left for Hyden. Our coach captain Terry, and Hostess Trisha took us along the Kulin road where we could see the many horse sculptures. We enjoyed the ever-changing scenery and arrived in Hyden with time to visit Mulka’s cave and learn his story.

Our accommodation at the Wave Rock Motel was pleasant, as was the delicious meal put on to welcome us. We spent the morning exploring Wave Rock with Sheena, the local warden, who kept us enthralled with the history of the area and with the native flora. Following our walk along the 1.4km trail, we looked over the Lace and Toy Museums where we were served our morning tea. These world class museums are a must see if you are in the area.

We departed Hyden late in the morning and made a lunch stop at Lake King before continuing to Esperance via Ravensthorpe and Munglinup. We spent two nights at the Comfort Inn Bay of Isles Motel on the waterfront in Esperance. We had the pleasure of the company of the Esperance Bay Probus Club who showed much fun, fellowship and friendship over dinner. We did enjoy their company.

The next morning we explored Cape Le Grande National Park and its many beautiful beaches. We enjoyed sunshine as we walked along the paths leading down to the water. At Lucky Bay many of us made friends with a kangaroo and Joey who were feeding by the Bay. We visited the Stonehenge replica on our way to lunch with the Esperance Probus Club at the Esperance Bird and Animal Park, and were again made most welcome, with new friendships formed. Our lunch was again sumptuous.

Esperance Boat Cruises took many of us on a sunset cruise around the islands, where we saw seals and other wildlife. Esperance is a delightful town with beautiful scenery and friendly people.

After another pleasant night at the Esperance Motel, we bid farewell and departed for Kalgoorlie. We noticed the changes in scenery en route. Morning tea was at Salmon Gums, lunch at Norseman, then on to Kambalda to visit the lookout at Lake Lefroy.

We spent two nights at the Quality Railway Motel Kalgoorlie. A bus tour to the Super Pit was enjoyed by us all – the size of the super pit and the machinery astounded us. Some of us visited the Kalgoorlie Museum and the others were taken to the Hannan’s Tourist Mine. Both museums are a must see if you are in the goldfields.

 

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Afternoon tea was served at Hammond Park and a group photograph was organized.

Sadly Saturday came too soon and we departed Kalgoorlie on The Prospector train for Perth. We said goodbye to Terry, an amazing host and bus driver who drove the bus back to Perth, whilst Trisha continued her ‘mother’ role with us. Both were first class operators and we thank them for all they did to make the trip so enjoyable.

Villa are thanked for arranging this Probus Tour. All probians are encouraged to try one of their tours – they do so much to make their tours enjoyable and look after your every need.  

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BAREFOOT BOWLS WITH THE FREMANTLE PROBUS CLUB

New Outing Officers Jenny and Peter organized a most successful event at the East Fremantle Bowling Club when 23 members and partners attended. Bowling Master Tony Cox gave the important briefing on how he hoped the evening would occur.

The name ‘barefoot” comes from those who do not have the approved bowling smooth soled shoes going barefoot to protect the greens. The weather and the greens were perfect, offsetting the less than perfect performances by many of our members. The major problem with our members concerning bowling is that they are all extremely nice people and who have no bias against anyone. Therefore most showed equal respect to the bowling ball and totally ignored its bias, resulting in many balls wandering all over the green and joining in and socializing with the ones in the neighbouring teams.

A variety of prizes was given out by Vice President Kath and Bowling Master Tony amid much laughter. The serious winners received wine and the spot prizes were socks with attitude. In keeping with the theme of Barefoot Bowls, there were prizes of feet with one shown in a photo. All present tucked into copious amounts of pizzas. Vice President Kath thanked Jenny, Peter, Tony and all the contestants. We certainly achieved the Probus aim of “Fun” in large quantities with our Barefoot Bowls Evening.

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THE PROBUS CLUB OF VICTORIA PARK had a most enjoyable and interesting outing to Guildford and the Swan Valley. Firstly, we called into St. Matthew’s Church for a history lesson on Western Australia’s only Garrison Church attached to an army battalion.

Organ music played as we entered the beautiful old church, which is set in Stirling Square amongst the heritage roses, sugar gum trees and various memorabilia in recognition of the ANZACS. Across Meadow Street are the recently restored Old Gaol and Taylor’s Cottage, and the Swan Valley Tourist Centre - a wonderful display of the treasures of days gone by. Thanks to member Gaye Sweeney, who is a volunteer at Guildford Gaol, we were treated to a wonderful information session. Morning tea, picnic style, was provided by Cascade Tours owner/driver Chris Gill.

We drove to Gidgegannup to have lunch at the Wild Goose Bistro. Opened in October 2015, set off the road, and taking six years to create with work ongoing, this is a unique function centre made of all rustic materials. The timber and brickwork and marvellous pieces of sculpture together with the garden are beautiful. The timber workmanship created by the owner after years of painstakingly collecting timber while developing the property, and from timber yards closing, displays his craftsmanship. This in itself is well worth seeing. The Old Soap Factory sells handmade natural soaps, gift packs and the Wine Dungeon sells Noble Falls wine made from grapes grown on the property. Lunch was very nice with choices of two mains and two desserts. Several sampled the drinks from the bar and mulled wine was available.

During lunch, we drew lucky prizes. These, very appropriately, were timber products made and donated by our Life-member Doug Turton who in an earlier life taught manual arts. After a stroll around the property to the lake and lavender and rosemary groves, we boarded the bus back firstly for a brief stop at the Gidgegannup Bakery, then for a longer stop to the Whistler Chocolate Factory in the Swan Valley, allowing us to take home treats.

This was our first “outing” by new joint Outings Officers; if other Clubs wish to emulate this outing contact the Guildford Historical Society and the Church Office of St. Matthew’s Church to personalise your Club’s visit. Mrs. Barbara Dundas 92797057 can be contacted for Military visits at Stirling Square, which is rich in military history. In 1829 the town of Guildford was proclaimed at the same time as Perth and Fremantle; Guildford has retained its historical significance.

In 1929 over one thousand roses were growing in Stirling Square, some donated by the nurserymen and Guildford community, to commemorate those soldiers who embarked from Guildford. In conjunction with the City of Swan, the Federal Government initiative ANZAC 100 Years, four refurbished Rose Gardens were recently replanted with 100 roses, one for each year. Guildford is a great place to stop and it is serviced by rail.

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TOUR OF CANBERRA AND SURROUNDS BY PROBUS CLUB MEMBERS

On 28 April at the very early hour of 0430 there were 30 eager, bright eyed and bushy tailed Probus members gathered at Terminal 1 Perth Airport ready to board a Virgin flight to Sydney and begin our 6 day adventure in the nation’s capital.

Virgin airlines looked after us all very well and we were all seated together as a group so the introductions began and we all met very nice and interesting people from a variety of Probus Clubs; Subiaco, Fremantle, Kelmscott, Kalgoorlie and of course Vasse. When we arrived in Sydney, we were joined by two ladies from Brisbane, so all in all a very interesting group.

After a short lunch break, the coach driven by the capable coach captain Scott met us all and we headed off to our first stop at Goulburn, where we had a welcome afternoon tea. It was pretty cold there but only the beginning of the cold weather!!! We eventually arrived at our motel in Queanbeyan at about 6pm. While we all felt quite tired we were then jolted into reality when we were informed that dinner would be at 6.30am and breakfast the next day at 7am!!!! And we were required to be on board the coach at 7.45am. So began our week of touring.

Most mornings the temperature was zero degrees but reached 14 or 15 degrees with very sunny days and no rain. We were glad of our scarves and gloves each day. We enjoyed so many of the tourist highlights of Canberra and surrounds, including:

• Both the old and the new Parliament Houses • The Australian War memorial (where we attended a Last Post ceremony and 2 of our

group laid a wreath to commemorate relatives. One of the ladies in our group had a great uncle who was the first person from WA ever to receive a Victoria Cross, Fred Bell.

• The National Museum of Australia • Embassy Row; a myriad of Diplomatic residences all examples of differing

architecture relative to their national culture. • Lanyon Homestead; an historic precinct of natural beauty, preserved by the

government for future generations. • Tidbinbilla tracking station; which plays a significant role in the exploration of space, it

has the largest antenna complex in the southern hemisphere.

PHOTOGRAPHS FROM

VASSE PROBUS CLUB’S

ANNUAL GENERAL

MEETING

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• The National Arboretum, an amazing architectural landscape featuring stunning plantings of trees and working to preserve rare trees from across the world.

• Gold Creek Village and Cockington Green featuring miniature replicas from a complete English village and miniature replicas of remarkable buildings from across the world.

• Lunch at a local winery “Poaches Pantry” where we sampled smoked meats and tasted the local wines.

• A trip to Bungendore included a guided tour of the famous award winning Woodwork gallery

• The Royal Australian Mint provided a fascinating insight into the history of our currency and the recent introduction of robots in the coin production for Australia and many other countries.

• A boat cruise on Lake Burley Griffin provided a different aspect to the view of the City and its surrounds, with the mountains and the beautiful autumn colours providing a magnificent backdrop to all of our tours. The Carillon bell tower peeled a wonderful tune as we glided by on the boat.

On our final day we drove to Goulburn where we had a tour of an historic stately home, the home of the Hamilton-Humes, a family of explorers mainly in NSW.

Then on to Berrima for lunch and a tour of the famous Berrima Gaol and Court Complex, and our final stop before the airport was at Bowral to visit the Sir Don Bradman Museum and the National Museum of Cricket. We arrived at the airport in good time for our return flight to Perth, landing in Perth at 9.30pm after a great holiday. We all bade our fond farewells before making our respective way home.

This trip was filled with Fun, Fellowship and Friendship. Throughout the whole tour we were extremely well looked after, our accommodation was wonderful and the hospitality we experienced second to none. I would recommend a Probus organized tour to any one who may be interested.

I have enjoyed compiling the interesting and varied stories from Probus Clubs within our State. ALL clubs are invited to submit their stories for publication in Probus West. Please send a Word document and photographs as jpegs. Please do not send in pdf format, as it is not possible to copy. SEND YOUR CONTRIBUTIONS TO:

EDITOR: TRISH FLOYD 103A STOCK ROAD, ATTADALE 6156

EMAIL: rpfloyd@westnet.com.au

SEPTEMBER ISSUE CLOSES ON THE 15TH AUGUST, 2017

PRIVATE AND CONFIDENTIAL FOR PROBUS USE ONLY AND NOT TO BE USED FOR ANY OTHER PURPOSE