As I commence my second year as President of the Bearbrass Probus Club, I would like to sincerely thank our 2025 committee members who are stepping down, for their dedication and service, and warmly welcome the new members joining the committee.
I would also like to acknowledge and thank the many wonderful convenors of our activities and outings. Your enthusiasm and commitment are what make our events possible and so enjoyable for everyone.
What a fantastic year it has been. Our membership has grown to 97, an increase of 24 over the past year. It is especially pleasing that all new and prospective members have been so warmly welcomed. There is always a lively buzz of conversation at our monthly meetings, particularly during the morning tea break.
It has certainly been a busy and engaging 12 months. Members have enjoyed a variety of outings, including musicals and Morning Melodies performances. Our art appreciation group travelled to Geelong to see the Archibald Prize exhibition and to Bendigo for the Frida Kahlo exhibition. Other excursions included a ferry trip to Portarlington, visits to Pentridge Prison, the Police Museum, the Old Treasury Building, and the Seaworks Museum in Williamstown.
Of course, there have also been many opportunities to enjoy good food and great company. Christmas in July at PJ O’Brien’s Hotel remains a favourite event. We also hosted a “Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner?” evening, where members were randomly allocated to three apartments in Clarendon Towers and enjoyed a catered dinner party. Our Sunday roast gatherings, held in local hotels, continue to be very well attended, offering members a relaxed and welcoming opportunity to share a meal—particularly for those who may live alone. This initiative has proven to be both meaningful and successful.
Our regular groups include book club, wine tasting, mahjong, cards, coffee morning and a new interest group in photography has begun.
If you think you would like to join our lively and friendly Probus group, or would like to sample a few events, reach out to our friendly membership officer, Bill.
Finally, we remain extremely grateful for the ongoing financial support of the City of Melbourne.