Probus has its origins in the United Kingdom, with the development of two community-based social clubs in the 1960s. Both clubs were formed to meet the social and intellectual needs of retired businessmen.
The first Probus club in the South Pacific region was the Probus Club of Kapiti Coast, New Zealand. The club was formed in 1974 and was sponsored by the Rotary Club of Paraparaumu. This was soon followed by the formation of the Probus Club of Hunters Hill, NSW in 1976.
The first Probus club for women in the region was the Ladies Club of St Heliers, New Zealand in 1982. This was closely followed by Bateau Bay, NSW later that year. Following the advent of single gender clubs, the concept of combined gender clubs was developed. Today, there are men’s, ladies’ and combined clubs.
The word Probus comes from the words PROfessional and BUSiness.
The purpose of a Probus club is to provide regular gatherings for those who, in retirement or semi-retirement, appreciate and value opportunities to meet others in similar circumstances and of a similar level of interest.
Probus clubs are non-political, non-sectarian, non-profit-making and non-fund-raising.
Probus clubs may only be formed/sponsored by a Rotary club.
Probus Club of Jamberoo inc.
The possibility of a mixed Probus club in Jamberoo was first raised by David Hall in 2017.
Support was requested from the Rotary Club of Kiama to act as the required sponsor who then set out seeking expressions of interest from our community.
Over forty enthusiasts answered the call thus invitations were issued by the Rotary Club of Kiama to the Foundation Meeting of the new Probus Club of Jamberoo. This was held on Thursday 30th August 2018 at Club Jamberoo (the Jamberoo Bowling Club).
Mal Bracken of the Rotary Club of Kiama chaired the Foundation Meeting, which was attended by approximately 40 people. The necessary Resolutions and Constitution were adopted to form the Probus Club of Jamberoo Inc. with the majority of the first club committee being elected.
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