District of Cleve Probus marked the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia with a celebratory luncheon at the Cleve Hotel.
The first Probus Club in Australia was established in Hunters Hill, NSW, in 1976. In 2003, Cleve locals Joy and Bill, and Don and Kay decided to establish a Probus Club in Cleve, with the Whyalla Rotary Club acting as sponsor.
Representatives from Whyalla Rotary joined the luncheon, which also celebrated 23 years of the Cleve Probus Club. Joy, now living in Tumby Bay, reflected on the Club’s early days. Starting with 40 members in 2003, membership quickly grew to 90, with 67 regularly attending monthly meetings.
Today, the Club has 40 members and continues to enjoy interesting and engaging monthly meetings at the Cleve Hotel, featuring guest speakers, morning tea and opportunities to stay for lunch.
The anniversary luncheon brought together 54 current and past members and friends for a memorable celebration. Among those attending were 16 Foundation members, many now in their eighties and nineties.
Past President Bevan and current President Graeme hosted the festivities, which included impromptu speeches, a history quiz, recitals, singing accompanied by Maurice on ukulele, and plenty of stories from years gone by.
Guests enjoyed lunch provided by the Cleve Hotel and a special birthday cake made by Club Treasurer Shirley. Current members also decorated the dining tables for the occasion.
The Club thanked its Committee for planning and organising the celebration, with special recognition given to Secretary Elaine for her valued work behind the scenes.
The celebration reflected what Probus has represented for five decades – friendship, fellowship and fun, while providing retired and semi-retired people with opportunities to connect, build friendships and remain active within their communities.
