The Olinda Probus Club marked a significant milestone on Wednesday, 13 August, celebrating its 20th birthday with a special gathering at the Olinda Community House.
The club’s anniversary event was a high-spirited occasion, drawing attention to the contributions the organisation has made to the local community and the friendships forged over the years.
The club was founded in August 2005, in what seemed to be an unlikely moment, on one of the coldest days ever recorded in Victoria, yet, as snow blanketed much of the state, Olinda remained unaffected.
Foundation president, Helen Holliday recalls how the idea for a Probus Club emerged after realising there was a lack of social opportunities in the area for retirees.
“It was a situation of ‘now what do I do’ when I left my last job,” Ms Holliday.
“After acquiring two puppies, Fred and Emma, my daily walks in Olinda led to countless conversations with other dog owners. It soon became apparent that Olinda could benefit from a social club like Probus.”
Having gained support from the Monbulk Rotary Club, the first official meeting took place despite the cold weather – it was a resounding success, with a committee formed and the club quickly establishing its foundation.
Now, two decades later, the Olinda Probus Club is thriving, boasting a membership that continues to grow, with it’s monthly meetings, held on the second Wednesday of each month, are an integral part of the club’s social calendar.
These meetings are followed by morning tea and a guest speaker, covering a range of interesting topics from a “Dunny Man” who collected night soil to a talk from Phillip Johnson, who won a gold medal at the Chelsea Flower Show.
Ms Holliday, who continues to serve as the club’s Probus Ambassador for Yarra Ranges, said over the years, the club has expanded to include a variety of ancillary groups such as walking groups, card games, Pilates, line dancing, and armchair travel.
Their members also enjoy regular outings, with one recent trip being a four-day stay in Port Fairy, and another planned for next year to explore the Murray River.
During the 20th birthday celebration, guests included Cr Jeff Marriott from Streeton Ward, which covers Olinda, and chairman of the Probus South Pacific Ltd Board, Michael Ransom.
The occasion also honoured past presidents and foundation members, who helped lay the groundwork for the club’s ongoing success.
“The club’s motto is ‘We make friendships,’” Ms Holliday said.
“And it’s true, many of our members have been with us for years and have formed deep friendships that extend beyond our meetings and activities.”
During the celebration, current president, Kurt Seemann thanked all the volunteers who have supported the club over the years.
For those interested in joining, the Olinda Probus Club welcomes all semi- or fully retired individuals.
More information about the club’s events and membership can be found on their website: olindaprobus.org.
“As the club looks ahead to another 20 years of friendship and community, we are proud of our achievements and excited for what the future holds,” Ms Holliday said.
