MEMBERS of the Probus Club of Port Stephens finally got off the mark for 2022 with their February Meeting attended by 80 members and guests who were welcomed by President Phil Dodd.

Ann Gibson of the Probus Club Of Port Stephens told News Of The Area, “It was very pleasing to see so many friends enjoying being together again albeit, with the dreaded but necessary masks.”

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At the Christmas lunch in December, the Club celebrated the 10 year Anniversary since ladies were permitted to join the once male-only club.

Pam Pett and Pam Ross were the first cabs off the rank and received Commemorative pins and flowers; John Townsend also received his 20 year service pin at the same function.

The February meeting shone the spotlight on three more ladies, Ann Gibson, Judy Sutton and Margaret Estreich, who had chalked up ten years, as well as Ron Gibson, another 20 year veteran.

“The President had a very busy time with all these presentations,” Ann said.

“Noel Wathen received his Nonagenarian Certificate (90 years old in January) and then the all-important Induction of three new members.

“Pauline Caelli, Kerry and Neville Jacobs were warmly welcomed by members present,” Ann said.

After nine Inductions in November and December, the Club now boasts a membership of 140.”

Members also paid respect to recently departed popular member Leon Lindsay with a reading of his lengthy profile followed by a minute’s silence and a Powerpoint photo display.

“The Guest Speaker was Leah Anderson with a great insight into what goes on at the Koala Sanctuary and Hospital, and the members enjoyed her presentation very much,” she said.

The activities are now being planned for the coming year with the first BBQ taking place later in the month, followed by the AGM and Changeover Lunch in March and an outing to the Iris Park Alpaca Farm later that month.

Walking, snooker and social bowls have already commenced and dining, fun golf/putt putt, social croquet, fishing and Probus Inter Club Bowls are coming up in the near future.

In May, a large group is off on the very popular Cara Campers trip, this time at Sawtell BIG 4.

“There is always lots of fun had on these trips,” Ann said.

This mixed gender Probus Club provides activities and companionship, with fun thrown in for good measure for retired and semi-retired seniors.

They meet on the second Thursday of the month at Nelson Bay Bowling Club at 10.30am and you are very welcome to check them out.

Call Membership Director Marilynn on 0417 485 614.

By Marian SAMPSON