THE Probus Club of Port Stephens cara-campers five day visit to Mudgee, which was impeccably organised by Phil and Petah Dodd in April, was timed to perfection for Mudgee entertainment and things to do.

Apart from country town hospitality, wine galore, scrumptious food, honey, cheeses and the Mudgee farmers market, there were special events in the form of the car show, the air show and hundreds of footy fans for the Sea Eagles/Titans clash at Mudgee Stadium.

David Heath of the Port Stephens Probus Club told News Of The Area, “The bus tour to the Gold rush days of Gulgong gave a saturating insight into the determination of these hardy adventurers of the time, and their determination to travel from many parts of the World in search of that commodity we still hold aloft: gold!

“Fortunately, the town of Gulgong has been held in a time capsule that allows us to experience the tough and dangerous way of life these pioneers gambled with.

“A stunning discovery of 500 glass plate photographic negatives, found in a basement and now displayed at the museum, has given clear pictures of these early day characters and their way of life.

“Day two involved the Mudgee farmers market with plenty of scrumptious goodies and homemade novelties, followed by Mudgee museum with technology and equipment which was cutting edge in its day, but now, sadly forgotten, including farming machinery which displayed the skill of the country blacksmiths and carpenters back in those days.”

Members of the club also enjoyed a walking tour of the town which started at the clock tower and displayed the wealth of this town a century ago, with architecture and building skills which are still to be admired.

The tour was conducted by an eighteen year old university student.

“Day three started with an Indigenous breakfast at IndigiEarth Cafe and very nice it was to, lunchtime was spent at the Baker Williams Liqueur tasting while watching the air show in the next field was a winner.

“The evening cocktail party served by the three Musketeers Phil Dodd, John Townsend and John Rebrik was followed by Trivia from the lovely Brenda Gray.”

The group also enjoyed a drive to Rylstone, a dim sum breakfast, and a farewell dinner at the Moothi Estate where the club’s members watched the sun go down over the vineyards.

Visitors are more than welcome to enjoy the activities and outings at Probus Club of Port Stephens, for more information contact probusclubofportstephens.org.

 

By Marian SAMPSON