Good morning everyone, 

What a busy month October proved to be. With our usual Probus out-ings and activities, we added the combined Pakenham clubs’ Friend-ship day, and what a success that proved to be. It was my first Friend-ship day and so I didn’t really know what to expect. It was a “full on” day with lots of friendly chatter, great food and plenty of loud dance music! While some members would have liked the volume a little low-er it did encourage dancing and plenty of it. We even had a couple of visitors from outside of the Pakenham clubs who attended simply for the music and dancing. I am reliably informed that if a repeat perfor-mance of “Dolly ”and “Kenny” and the “Village People” occurs they will be there with bells on. Thank you to all members who took the trouble to dress in seventies style for the event. Some of the outfits were truly remarkable. Once again I extend my sincere thanks to Mar-lene Knaap and her very willing and capable sub committee for organ-ising a great day. 

It is with great sadness that we note the passing of two of our members, Loris Begg and Jenny Burridge. The large attendances at their respective funerals shows how much these two ladies were loved and respected by the wider community as well as within Probus. Our thoughts are with Graeme and Graham and their families during this sad time. 

On a personal note, thank you to everyone for their well wishes and concern over Joy’s recent stay in hospital. Her knee is coming along well but she is currently undergoing tests for a heart condition which will require sur-gery, so her recovery is slower than expected. I will be unable to attend this month’s meeting because of on going medical appointments. 

I hope everyone is enjoying our warmer Spring weather, 

Regards 

Gary 

President