Vol 4 Issue 2 June 2013 PUBLISHED BY PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WA FOR MEMBERS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA. The. Convicts. With. Their. Captors.

Size: px

Start display at page:

Download "Vol 4 Issue 2 June 2013 PUBLISHED BY PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WA FOR MEMBERS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA. The. Convicts. With. Their. Captors."

Roderick Richard
5 years ago
Views:

Vol 4 Issue 2 June 2013 PUBLISHED BY PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WA FOR MEMBERS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA Sixteen members from

The tour was organised by Geraldine Hart of Mundaring Probus Club but as there were not enough takers to make up the

The name of the Hotel they stayed in was The Paradise but that name could equally apply to the whole of the Island.

The inhabitants of Norfolk are delightfully hospitable.

Every evening was packed full of social events.

From a dinner in which we were provided with convict uniforms and treated as convicts for the night to a re-enactment

1 Vol 4 Issue 2 June 2013 PUBLISHED BY PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WA FOR MEMBERS IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA Sixteen members from four WA Probus clubs spent a week in May on Norfolk island. The tour was organised by Geraldine Hart of Mundaring Probus Club but as there were not enough takers to make up the minimum size group she invited members of York, Denmark and Rossmoyne Ladies clubs to join the group. The name of the Hotel they stayed in was The Paradise but that name could equally apply to the whole of the Island. What a delightful spot it turned it out to be to spend a week that fitted so much into it that it felt like a month. The inhabitants of Norfolk are delightfully hospitable. They invited us into their homes for a progressive dinner on one evening. Every evening was packed full of social events. In fact almost every waking hour we spent on the Island had something new and interesting for us to do. From a dinner in which we were provided with convict uniforms and treated as convicts for the night to a re-enactment of the Mutiny on the Bounty with a full size replica of the ship on a small lake with a Tropical Island shore opposite the ship to represent Tahiti. I, for one, can now understand the mutineers not wanting to return to their normal way of life aboard ship. (John Bath) The Convicts With Their Captors Most Of The Crew (3 absent) The Famous Norfolk Blue Beef Two Beautiful Views

2 PRESIDENTS REPORT JUNE 2013 Greetings all The past month has been a very busy one. Firstly the Great Southern Information Day which was held in the Albany Club only attracted 20 probians from 8 clubs, those present were the six clubs from Albany, Denmark and Mount Barker. The meeting was very successful and the valuation reports on the whole very positive. Winston, Graham and myself answered many questions mainly regarding PSPL and Graham with my assistance had a break through with the local clubs - they have agreed to visit each other as to date this has never happened. It was a very friendly meeting with everyone joining in and everyone agreed this event to be held every two years. The South West Information Day was held on the 23 May at the Bunbury Parade Hotel and 13 of the 17 clubs in the region were represented with 64 members being present which included Rotary District Chairman Winston Marsh and from PAWA Graeme, Alan, Patricia and myself. Overall it was an excellent meeting well chaired by Don Faulks the Regional representative and all topic subjects well received and the discussion groups enjoyed by all, and many questions asked. To date valuation forms are still being collated, but from the ones managed to be read all should be positive. The lunch which comprised finger food was very good. The only bad aspect of the day was that I lost one of my new hearing aids the first time worn which made it a very expensive day. If it is not covered by insurance will set me back $1000. Have we any surplus cash Mr Treasurer??? The highlight of the month was the seven days to Mauritius courtesy of Trade Travel wish it had been longer. A beautiful island very interesting, with the experience of walking with the lions on the visit to the wildlife park being number 1 on the itinerary, I can only say a bit nervous at first and we were allowed to pat them just like big pussy cats. There were seven Probians from around Australia and three representatives, Trade Travel, Lux Hotels and Air Mauritius. 9 ladies and one male. If you wish to read more, you will in the next issue of the Probus West. But I can say now, that a great time was enjoyed by all and I only wish everyday was like the last seven. Fairley Watson, President The Men's Probus Club of Booragoon (WA) arranged a 4 day getaway in May to the South West, which was enjoyed by 33 members and partners. Most participants travelled by train (The Australind) using free pensioner passes or concessions and availed themselves of a limousine pick up from and to home. Very comfortable accommodation was provided at the Rose Motel in Bunbury, this being part of the historic Rose Hotel, which retains a most attractive period charm. Excellent breakfasts and dinners were provided in the Hotel's dining room. Two full days tours were provided by Royal Gala Tours on their luxury coach and included first rate morning/ afternoon teas and cooked lunches at the Margaret River Hotel and the Collie Federal Hotel. On the first day, visits were made to Busselton, Annibrook Wine and Flower Emporium, Gracetown, Prevelly and Margaret River including the Chocolate Factory, Nut Factory and the impressive Saracen and Duckstein Estate. We returned to Bunbury via Canal Rocks and Dunsborough. The second day, we enjoyed a visit to Wellington Dam and Collie where we visited a beautiful Anglican Church which boasts a Phillip Goatcher mural (only 3 in Australia) and a Replicated Coal Mine Tour and Railway Museum. On the return to our Motel, we passed through the extensive coal mining area and the beautiful Ferguson Valley and visited a winery. The only complaint seemed to be that we were overfed. (Mel Austin) Vic Logan (in red jumper) celebrated his 80th Birthday so qualifying for his OBE!! 2

SOUTH WEST GATHERING A joint project of The Probus Association of Western Australia And Villa Carlotta Travel Sunday 7 th April began a 5 day 4 night fun, fellowship and friendship tour.

Nineteen Probus clubs were represented on the coach and 5 country Clubs welcomed us to their various Club meetings and or functions.

Stopping at the Feature Wood Gallery & Museum in Australind we toured the museum and were soon back on the bus bound for Busselton and the Esplanade Hotel for a welcome aboard lunch, followed by a

After an early start next morning we arrived in Dunsborough to be greeted by members of the Probus Club of Dunsborough at their monthly meeting.

We moved on to Pemberton for an over night stay at the Pemberton Hotel. Again, a formal dinner had been arranged.

Next stop was Manjimup s Timber and Heritage Park for a light luncheon with Manjimup Probus Club members.

3 SOUTH WEST GATHERING A joint project of The Probus Association of Western Australia And Villa Carlotta Travel Sunday 7 th April began a 5 day 4 night fun, fellowship and friendship tour. The purpose of the trip was, of course, to have fun touring the south west corner of our lovely state and to mix and mingle along the way with Probus members from different clubs. Nineteen Probus clubs were represented on the coach and 5 country Clubs welcomed us to their various Club meetings and or functions. In Villa s usual style all passengers, 42 in all, were picked up from home in taxis and transferred to a comfortable coach for the journey. Stopping at the Feature Wood Gallery & Museum in Australind we toured the museum and were soon back on the bus bound for Busselton and the Esplanade Hotel for a welcome aboard lunch, followed by a wander around the jetty precinct before moving on to Abbey Beach Resort where we were warmly welcomed. Pre dinner drinks in the lounge were followed by a lovely dinner. After an early start next morning we arrived in Dunsborough to be greeted by members of the Probus Club of Dunsborough at their monthly meeting. Interesting guest speakers spoke of their experiences in China. Over morning tea and a light lunch, put on by the Club, members and guests enjoyed the social gathering. We moved on to Pemberton for an over night stay at the Pemberton Hotel. Again, a formal dinner had been arranged. The following morning we experienced a tram ride through the beautiful forest area around Pemberton. Next stop was Manjimup s Timber and Heritage Park for a light luncheon with Manjimup Probus Club members. After an enjoyable couple of hours mixing and mingling and a guided tour through the park we were back in the coach for the drive to Albany and the Ace Motel Inn for a 2 night stay. Next morning we attended the monthly meeting of the Combined Probus Club of Albany. An interesting guest speaker invited input from the floor as he spoke about relationships between Aboriginal and European people, some of his comments opened new avenues of thinking for many of us. Fellowship over morning tea was great. At the conclusion of the meeting we again boarded the coach for a short trip to Mount Clarence and picnic lunch at the Princess Royal Fortress, followed by a tour of the museum and old fort. Day 5 was another early start to arrive in Kojonup for fellowship and morning tea with the Kojonup and Katanning Probus Clubs. Once again conviviality and country hospitality were in evidence, everyone enjoyed meeting new folk and exchanging club ideas. Having said our farewells our coach journeyed on to Williams for a farewell lunch at the Wool Shed plus a quick look at the adjoining shops (all done in twilight since the power had been off from mid morning). It was noted however, that some retail therapy was being practiced by fellow travellers. Probus had once again provided the catalyst for fun, friendship and fellowship. A tired but happy group arrived back in Perth to be transferred to taxis for our return to front doors. I cannot close this report without mentioning our coach crew.. Rodger and Inger were two of the most caring guides and captains we have travelled with and they get our top marks for professionalism. As you read this account, there is another tour in the pipeline planned for later this year, to Kalgoorlie, Esperance and environs. If you are looking for a well planned, affordable tour do consider this PAWA-Villa joint project. (Boyd Ackland) Some of the Officials and Attendees 3

AROUND THE CLUBS ELLENBROOK COMBINED PROBUS CLUB Laughter filled the meeting room. It was our Mrs. Bouquet Day in May meeting and who stole the show?? Who was the Lady in Blue?

) Cumblidge with his other half Pam (alias the dashing Richard) who took off first prize and caused many of us to be in stitches of laughter.

They are L-R John Palmer, Brenda Palmer, Canning Vale Fairley Watson President PAAWA Nerrida McClelland, Erica Hills, Marion Beenham, Pam Heald Atwell I am still giggling now as I think of Chris

Buckett (Sheila Cocking) with a bucket on her head decorated with flowers - won the novelty prize.

4 AROUND THE CLUBS ELLENBROOK COMBINED PROBUS CLUB Laughter filled the meeting room. It was our Mrs. Bouquet Day in May meeting and who stole the show?? Who was the Lady in Blue? that many of us (I included) thought who s that - I have not seen that member before. None other than our welfare officer Chris (or should we say Christine?) Cumblidge with his other half Pam (alias the dashing Richard) who took off first prize and caused many of us to be in stitches of laughter. Pictured above are members of two new Probus Clubs (Canning Vale and Atwell) who attended the recent Information Day at the RAAFA. They are L-R John Palmer, Brenda Palmer, Canning Vale Fairley Watson President PAAWA Nerrida McClelland, Erica Hills, Marion Beenham, Pam Heald Atwell I am still giggling now as I think of Chris parading around in his finery. Thanks to all who dressed up - we had a great morning full of laughter and smiles. Elizabeth (alias Doris Thobaven) was there with her fine china tea cup and Mrs. Buckett (Sheila Cocking) with a bucket on her head decorated with flowers - won the novelty prize. Our judges were our special guests from the Swan Valley Probus Club [Pam & Norman Johnson] and they were happy we were having so much fun. (Lyn Coy) Members of the Karrinyup & North Beach Probus Club recently visited the Perth Mint. A delicious morning tea was enjoyed in the outdoor area with plenty of time to catch up on news. All were fascinated listening to the history of the Mint from a thoroughly entertaining guide. The highlight of the morning was the gold pour. Some members were brave enough to weigh themselves and find out how much they were worth if they were gold - funny but more men than women ventured on those scales!!! There was time to look round the many fascinating exhibits and jewellery displays before heading over to the Grosvenor Hotel (remember as the "Groovy Grosvenor" to some members} and a fantastic lunch. Can recommend this pub to any other Clubs organising a visit to the Mint - service fantastic and meals very very good value". (Carolyn Field) Enjoying the Feeling 4

The Combined Probus Club of Attadale has presented the first ever Life Membership Certificates to Laurie and Jean Holmes in recognition of their Loyal and Dedicated Service in the promotion of Probus

Jean was at Laurie's side during this time and also served on the Management Committee ensuring the Club had interesting Speakers at each monthly General Meeting.

Meetings, they often participate in our other activities, especially our Luncheons and Dinners!

It was attended by 80 of their members out of a possible 100. The Restaurant could not hold any more.

5 The Combined Probus Club of Attadale has presented the first ever Life Membership Certificates to Laurie and Jean Holmes in recognition of their Loyal and Dedicated Service in the promotion of Probus and our Club. Laurie was the Club's Inaugural President from October 1998 to March 2000 and set the foundation stones for the successful Club we have today. Jean was at Laurie's side during this time and also served on the Management Committee ensuring the Club had interesting Speakers at each monthly General Meeting. Our sincere thanks go to them both for the effort they put in the early days and we hope they can now enjoy the fruits of their labour and although it is difficult for them to attend our General Meetings, they often participate in our other activities, especially our Luncheons and Dinners! (Tony Carter) AROUND THE CLUBS The Melville Ladies Probus Club celebrated their 24th birthday at a superb luncheon at Quinlans Restaurant, South Fremantle. It was attended by 80 of their members out of a possible 100. The Restaurant could not hold any more. One member was presented with her 20 year recognition badge and 5 members were presented with their 10 year recognition badge. Attached is a photo of some of the Past Presidents. Unfortunately there were quite a few missing for various reasons. (Lorna Green) Those featured in the photo cutting the cake ( which was made and iced by Patricia Goodridge, one of our members) are: Pictured, L-R, are Bob Elliot, President, Jill Corser, Vice President, and Jean and Laurie Holmes. Helen D'alton, Lorna Fowler, Verna Brown, Brenda Goodreid (our present President) Elinor Munachen, Melva Mutch, Probus Club of Perth Recognises Foundation Stalwarts. At the recent Club meeting at Lake Karrinyup Country Club, President Arthur Lodge presented members John Pope, Noel Monks and Ron Sears [ L to R ] with Life membership Certificates and Medallions as being Foundation members in May, All three have served as President and are still active members, each gave a brief summary of the progress of the Club. The Club meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month and generally features a Guest Speaker. In May Dr Mike Donaldson, Geologist and authority on Rock Art of the Kimberly spoke of his extensive knowledge on this subject. New members most welcome, Contact Peter Wesley on (Terry O Beirne) Some members and a couple of interested husbands from the Kalamunda Ladies Probus Club recently enjoyed morning tea followed by an informative tour of the Fremantle Prison, related by our guide Amanda and her knowledge of its history and inmates. The gift shop also proved to be of interest and several purchases were made before continuing on to the South Beach Cafe for a light and relaxing lunch before our bus trip back to Kalamunda. Thanks to Lee for a great outing. (Pat Cox) Yes, they are all there!! 5

Around the Clubs Alan Rogers (2nd Vice President) paid a visit to the South Perth Probus Club recently representing PAWA for Maurie Feldman s 100 th birthday.

His home burned down a few years ago and they then moved up to Dianella but they both attend the meeting on a monthly basis. Believe nothing could keep him away.

There some men very anti women and do not want them in the club - BUT gladly eat their morning tea - does that tell you something cheeky b****rs.

A special feature of the occasion was a magnificent birthday cake made for them by their esteemed member and talented pastry chef Bette Gordon, with some assistance from her daughter we are told.

! ( Ted Bosman) Ted receiving the 30yr Certificate from Fairley Watson PAAWA Pres. Also The fantastic cake L-R Tony, Maurie, Dorothy and Alan Probus is a Community Service Activity of Rotary.

6 Around the Clubs Alan Rogers (2nd Vice President) paid a visit to the South Perth Probus Club recently representing PAWA for Maurie Feldman s 100 th birthday. It was such a great day and he Maurie) was as bright as a button; his wife of 96 was the same, a little fragile but heck if any of us reach that age in the same condition it would be fantastic. His home burned down a few years ago and they then moved up to Dianella but they both attend the meeting on a monthly basis. Believe nothing could keep him away. South Perth is still a men s club but it would interesting to be a fly on the wall next meeting because they are attempting to bring the ladies into the fold. There some men very anti women and do not want them in the club - BUT gladly eat their morning tea - does that tell you something cheeky b****rs. Alan Rogers) The North Perth/Mount Lawley Probus Club recently celebrated their 30th anniversary with a luncheon at their favourite watering hole, The Inglewood Hotel. A special feature of the occasion was a magnificent birthday cake made for them by their esteemed member and talented pastry chef Bette Gordon, with some assistance from her daughter we are told. Our new PAWA President Fairley Watson joined them on this memorable occasion. He so enjoyed the company that he has expressed a wish to join them when they come to celebrate the 50 th anniversary!! ( Ted Bosman) Ted receiving the 30yr Certificate from Fairley Watson PAAWA Pres. Also The fantastic cake L-R Tony, Maurie, Dorothy and Alan Probus is a Community Service Activity of Rotary. To promote the good relationship between the two organisations the Rotary District Probus Chairman attended Rotary's District 9465 Conference. PSPL is very supportive of the event and donated a Coffee Machine as a prize to the winner of the question: "How many Probus Clubs in Rotary District 9465?" The Probus Club of Attadale visits a different attractive venue in the Perth metropolitan area every month during its popular Walkie-Talkie programme. This picture was taken at the Kent Street weir on the Canning river. (Glyn Williams) The coffee machine was won by Rotarian Malcolm McDonald from Kojonup Rotary Club who is shown here receiving the machine from RDPC Winston Marsh. The answer is 62 6

KOJONUP COMBINED PROBUS CLUB At a meeting of Kojonup combined Probus, President Elaine welcomed 12 members and three visitors, wishing every one a Happy New Year!

The guest speaker that day was David Moore, the new Police Sergeant and, after telling members of his various positions and postings in the police force, he was kind enough to answer queries from the

Visitors are welcome for Fun, Friendship and Fellowship. Kath Crook is pictured at left receiving her medallion from the Club members to celebrate her 101st birthday.

At the helm is the new President, Brenda Goodreid. There is a membership of 100 members and always a list of "Ladies-in-waiting".

7 KOJONUP COMBINED PROBUS CLUB At a meeting of Kojonup combined Probus, President Elaine welcomed 12 members and three visitors, wishing every one a Happy New Year! They had a lively discussion on places to visit on the bus trips and many places of interest were suggested. The guest speaker that day was David Moore, the new Police Sergeant and, after telling members of his various positions and postings in the police force, he was kind enough to answer queries from the members. Another speaker will be Mr Tony Rookyard to speak on his life in South Africa. They meet on Mondays, at the St John s Ambulance rooms at 2pm. Visitors are welcome for Fun, Friendship and Fellowship. Kath Crook is pictured at left receiving her medallion from the Club members to celebrate her 101st birthday. Kathleen attends meetings regularly. (G Kirkwood) The Melville Ladies Probus Club (Western Australia) has had their A.G.M. For 2013 and the new committee elected. At the helm is the new President, Brenda Goodreid. There is a membership of 100 members and always a list of "Ladies-in-waiting". (Lorna Green) Around the Clubs There was warm applause for Bernard Wright at the March meeting of the Probus Club of Attadale when the president, Peter Ahrens, announced that he (Bernard) had been appointed an honorary member of the Order of Australia for his services to the accounting profession, commerce and community. Berrnard has had a distinguished career since migrating from Britain in the 1950s. He has been chairman of the Perth Stock E x c h a n g e, national president of the Austra- lian Society of Acc o u n t a n t s (now Australian CPA), and has served on the boards of listed companies. At community level he has served on the Council of Wesley College and the college s foundation fund. He was the inaugural chairman of the Western Australian Film Council. A firm believer in making a contribution to any organisation of which he is a member, Bernard has rarely been out of office since joining our club eight years ago. He has been president, speakers officer and has served as secretary for several years, and he imparts humour as well as efficiency to all his work. (Glyn Williams) Smaller Probus Clubs who wish to enjoy a coach trip are usually faced with making up numbers to fill the minimum requirements of the bus companies. Alan Stewart, now our President, came up with a new operator with a party bus called the "Funky Monkey". The bus can seat 26 passengers, but they were happy to do the tour with 20. The Probus Club of Cockburn travelled up the coast to Two Rocks, then on to Guilderton on the Moore River. After a fine morning tea we boarded the local tour boat for a river cruise. The tour guide has a wealth of local knowledge which we all found very interesting. After a sausage sizzle, with rolls and salads, we made our way back on the freeway to disembark at 4.15pm. The weather was fine and mild, the excursion was fantastic, and we can thoroughly recommend the young owners of the "Funky Monkey" to any battling Probus Club. Contact details are - Luke on The New Committee for 2013 All looking very glamorous And ready for business 7

Frank bought a Jeep. For all of 100 dollars 38 years ago. Not that it was much of a Jeep. It had only one wheel and lots of rust.

I had an insurance repair job on rural property at Coorow, north of Perth, and I had to climb on the roof, he said.

It had one wheel, was badly rusted, and was sitting on its base. I asked the farmer if he wanted to sell, and in the understatement of the year, he said It doesn t go.

8 Frank bought a Jeep. For all of 100 dollars 38 years ago. Not that it was much of a Jeep. It had only one wheel and lots of rust. Frank Cocks, a past president of the Probus Club of Attadale, Perth, was running his own master builder business at the time. He takes up the story. I had an insurance repair job on rural property at Coorow, north of Perth, and I had to climb on the roof, he said. From the roof I could see what looked like a rubbish dump, about half a mile away, and when I went closer to examine it, I saw this old military Jeep. It had one wheel, was badly rusted, and was sitting on its base. I asked the farmer if he wanted to sell, and in the understatement of the year, he said It doesn t go. We agreed on a 100-dollar sale price, I hired a trailer, winched it on, and brought it back to Perth. Then the long hard work began. Frank managed to get a workshop manual and asked a talented Perth motor mechanic Nic Nicole to clean, repair and overhaul the engine. He bought some items from firms specialising in replacement parts, but was also able to get some that were original. Nic did a great and dedicated job, along with the occasional choice Italian swear words, and even today he gets progress reports on how the Jeep is going, Frank said. For body reconstruction Frank turned to another friend, Bob Collins, who was running a successful metal fabrication company in Perth. The Jeep turned out to be a good omen for Bob. As soon as Frank took the Jeep to Bob s premises business moved up from quiet to very busy. Necessarily Bob had to look after his main business and I accepted that work on the Jeep had to be in that four o clock slot when staff had finished other jobs and had some down time before they finished for the day, he said. The entire project took three years to complete, but I never despaired, and knew that we would get it done. When the work had been completed, Frank had to search to find the correct type and military shade of paint, and was finally successful when he contacted a Melbourne firm. With this Jeep - which he believes was made in 1944 and was used in the Western Australia 5 th military training district and has its original army registration painted on each side of the bonnet up and running, Frank a former National Serviceman, resolved that it would be shared with the public. He has driven it in 35 annual Anzac Day parades in Perth, and it has been on display at many military installations and functions. The first Willys-Overland Jeeps were produced in 1942 and it became the primary light four-wheel drive vehicle of the United States Army and allies during WW11. More than were produced. It is generally believed that the government designation GP for general purpose became the Jeep, though there are other theories. The first civilian versions were made in * In 2011 Frank was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for service to veterans, particularly through the Western Australian Branch of the National Servicemen's Association of Australia. Frank was state president of the association from and played a leading part in securing a memorial for national servicemen in Canberra. Frank is also a member of the Royal Aero Club of WA, which he joined in 1958 after his national service and active reserve involvement with the RAAF. He was made a life member of the club for his dedicated service with this respected organisation. (Glyn Williams) Headlight facing wrong way? Not at all. They were reversible, allowing mechanics to work on engines at night when other light sources were not available. Frank with jeep. Edited by Patricia Owens Published by Darrell Williams Please send Contributions to Pat by patricia.owens@westnet.com.au Photographs to be in high definition attached to s or any hard copy mailed to The Editor. 49 Fyfe Circle, Bull Creek,

PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA INC Website: President s Report

PROBUS ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA INC Website: http://probuswa.wordpress.com/ Email:probuswa@gmail.com Hi Fellow Probians President s Report My how the months just fly! It has been another busy month