Garden Group Mystery Tour
MYSTERY SOLVED!!!!!
While we may never know what happened on the Mary Celeste, we can now reveal the plot of the Probus Club of Eaton’s Garden Mystery Tour on Wednesday 17/5/2023.
Forty-eight “clueless” Probeans from a number of clubs and some Rose Society members arrived early at the Eaton Foreshore – we left late. The heading was out through the beautifully green paddocks of Dardanup and up into the Ferguson Valley. We got a clue as we neared Frog’s Hollow. But No! We headed on and then turned into a farm gate just down the road. It was a visit to Val’s Tin Shed. Well, the shed was made of colorbond but inside was the most eclectic collection of tins, boxes, packets and memorabilia that you could possibly imagine.
What a fascinating walk down memory lane it was. All around you could hear
“My Grandmother had biscuits in that tin”, “I keep my cottons in that tin”, “Mum used to put Flavine on my skinned knees”. “I had one of those toy sewing machines”. See, not just tins!
Almost any tin you can imagine from the last 100 years was to be found on the shelves and either before or after viewing you were welcome to a fantastic morning tea of cakes, scones with home made jam and egg sandwiches.
Then we had a walk through the sunshine to inspect the garden, buy plants and even purchase butternuts and pumpkins. This is a great place to visit.
The mystery, however, continued. Suddenly, there was Charley Creek Road, then another road, then a careful backing manoeuvre (wrong way) and Charley Creek Road again! We had arrived at the Fine Timber Company. How fortunate you are when your passion becomes your profession. This is what happened to Derek Doak. He has a small one log sawmill and saws logs into wonderful slabs and posts that are used by timber firms and hobbyists to make furniture. Derek stated this as a hobby but has moved to this large acreage where he has accumulated over $1M of timber. Luckily the fires of last summer just missed his business as he has a large stockpile of timber, mainly marri, a gas fired kiln and the sawmill itself to protect. The wonderful thing about mystery tours is when you go to someplace that you would never otherwise visit. This was such a place. Magnificent.
The next stop was lunch – at the Mumby Pub. Boy did we keep that lot on their toes – supplying 48 ravenous oldies with a lovely meal. It was hectic but worth it.
After lunch, we headed back towards Donnybrook but turned onto Thomson Road. Then the bus driver displayed his skills again getting us through the gate of the Thomson Brook Estate winery. What a lovely little place this was! As it had not fared so well in the summer fires (vines, a shed and cherry picker were lost) we felt we needed to buy up big to help them along. We also managed to taste quite a bit of the product as well.
Eventually, as we must, we returned home. A great day! Thank you, Les, Dorothy and Kerry. This report is long – blame Les for organizing such a good day!
While we may never know what happened on the Mary Celeste, we can now reveal the plot of the Probus Club of Eaton’s Garden Mystery Tour on Wednesday 17/5/2023.
Forty-eight “clueless” Probeans from a number of clubs and some Rose Society members arrived early at the Eaton Foreshore – we left late. The heading was out through the beautifully green paddocks of Dardanup and up into the Ferguson Valley. We got a clue as we neared Frog’s Hollow. But No! We headed on and then turned into a farm gate just down the road. It was a visit to Val’s Tin Shed. Well, the shed was made of colorbond but inside was the most eclectic collection of tins, boxes, packets and memorabilia that you could possibly imagine.
What a fascinating walk down memory lane it was. All around you could hear
“My Grandmother had biscuits in that tin”, “I keep my cottons in that tin”, “Mum used to put Flavine on my skinned knees”. “I had one of those toy sewing machines”. See, not just tins!
Almost any tin you can imagine from the last 100 years was to be found on the shelves and either before or after viewing you were welcome to a fantastic morning tea of cakes, scones with home made jam and egg sandwiches.
Then we had a walk through the sunshine to inspect the garden, buy plants and even purchase butternuts and pumpkins. This is a great place to visit.
The mystery, however, continued. Suddenly, there was Charley Creek Road, then another road, then a careful backing manoeuvre (wrong way) and Charley Creek Road again! We had arrived at the Fine Timber Company. How fortunate you are when your passion becomes your profession. This is what happened to Derek Doak. He has a small one log sawmill and saws logs into wonderful slabs and posts that are used by timber firms and hobbyists to make furniture. Derek stated this as a hobby but has moved to this large acreage where he has accumulated over $1M of timber. Luckily the fires of last summer just missed his business as he has a large stockpile of timber, mainly marri, a gas fired kiln and the sawmill itself to protect. The wonderful thing about mystery tours is when you go to someplace that you would never otherwise visit. This was such a place. Magnificent.
The next stop was lunch – at the Mumby Pub. Boy did we keep that lot on their toes – supplying 48 ravenous oldies with a lovely meal. It was hectic but worth it.
After lunch, we headed back towards Donnybrook but turned onto Thomson Road. Then the bus driver displayed his skills again getting us through the gate of the Thomson Brook Estate winery. What a lovely little place this was! As it had not fared so well in the summer fires (vines, a shed and cherry picker were lost) we felt we needed to buy up big to help them along. We also managed to taste quite a bit of the product as well.
Eventually, as we must, we returned home. A great day! Thank you, Les, Dorothy and Kerry. This report is long – blame Les for organizing such a good day!
PLAYGROUND SHENANIGANS
Remember “What happens in the playground stays in the playground”? Well, that’s not going to apply here. All the beans will be spilled.
On Wednesday 26th April the Probus Club of Eaton invaded the new Mangrove Cove picnic and playground area. The weather was a bit iffy and cold but that didn’t stop us and it became nice eventually.
Les manned the BBQ for the carnivores and the rest of us ate our sandwiches etc. They have done a good job setting up this area and it’s quite popular. Once we had eaten and the home schooled squad of kids had left our true selves emerged - like demented monkeys we swarmed up the play equipment. There are elevated walkways, swaying plank bridges, slides of many sorts and a wonderful view out over the mangroves. Some of our members were really adventurous test driving this equipment while the rest of us made wonderful observers.
For the cultured amongst us, members performed on the built in metal drums and pipes. The word cacophony springs to mind but hey! it was a joyous sound. All this equipment is set out along winding paths bordered with beautiful native plants.
This was a pleasant, fun day, easy to organise (I hope Les) and easy to access for fun, fellowship and frivolity. Not really any beans spilled at all.
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GETTING TOGETHER AGAIN
One of the favourite and special things about our club is that we love to get together so it is fortunate that we have Les to organise this for us. So, as the day drew to a close on Tuesday 7th March we gathered at the beautiful San Marco foreshore where the Collie River meets the Leschenault Estuary. There were some games for those who felt like it - skittles, croquet (male and female) and an enormous Connect Four. If the odd shriek and giggle was anything to go by, then these games were fun. When it came time to eat, as the sun was setting, an odd phenomenon revealed itself - some Probeans (including me) only read what we expect to read - ie BBQ - we brought food to BBQ. This was never intended by Les and while we had brought the food none of us had brought utensils, oils etc. Being a total champion Les agreed to try to cook it for us. I for one found my sausage and burnt roll delicious. This was a good evening get together. It would be lovely to have more of the same and next time I promise to read the outline of the event more carefully. Cheers Chris Durrant |
BBQ BREAKFAST CRUISE ON THE COLLIE RIVER
On Monday 27th February about twenty-four Probians and friends met on the banks of the Collie River for a breakfast cruise. What a magnificent morning to be on the water! It was about 24 degrees at 9 am when we set off. There was a gentle breeze and we all sat back to enjoy the next hour watching the scenery slide by.
Several osprey nests were pointed out by our very knowledgeable Captain whose commentary along the way was very interesting. We saw darters and cormorants, but no baby birds this time.
Coffee and tea was served to whet the appetite before breakfast.
After an hour we arrived at “Hynes Landing” and while disembarked and settled onto the picnic tables and ordered our drink of choice, our Captain got the BBQ going.
In a short while we were asked to help ourselves to a fresh buns, butter, bacon, hash browns and scrambled eggs. It was delicious and all the more so under the trees with perfect weather.
Feeling very relaxed after our champagne breakfast we clambered aboard the Elandra for our trip home after a magic morning.
Kerry Shardlow
On Monday 27th February about twenty-four Probians and friends met on the banks of the Collie River for a breakfast cruise. What a magnificent morning to be on the water! It was about 24 degrees at 9 am when we set off. There was a gentle breeze and we all sat back to enjoy the next hour watching the scenery slide by.
Several osprey nests were pointed out by our very knowledgeable Captain whose commentary along the way was very interesting. We saw darters and cormorants, but no baby birds this time.
Coffee and tea was served to whet the appetite before breakfast.
After an hour we arrived at “Hynes Landing” and while disembarked and settled onto the picnic tables and ordered our drink of choice, our Captain got the BBQ going.
In a short while we were asked to help ourselves to a fresh buns, butter, bacon, hash browns and scrambled eggs. It was delicious and all the more so under the trees with perfect weather.
Feeling very relaxed after our champagne breakfast we clambered aboard the Elandra for our trip home after a magic morning.
Kerry Shardlow
MAD HATTERS TEA PARTY.
AN UNEXPECTED AFTERNOON TEA
Have you ever had that weird feeling that you have fallen down a rabbit hole into an alternative reality? Well . . . if you had been lurking around the Bail’s house on the afternoon of 14th February 2023, you would have felt just that.
We had Mad Hatters, March Hares, Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, hats full of cakes, hats full of whistles, a cheeky Playboy bunny, a really strange woman with a bird cage on her head, a walking rose bush, a tyrolean maid and her big hatted friend and presiding over all was blonde Alice and her other Alice friends. And then, just when we thought we had them all, a one-eyed-one horned purple people eater walked onto the set
In fact it was the Probus Club of Eaton’s Mad Hatters Tea Party.
After a good laugh at all the effort put into the costumes we sat down to a lovely afternoon tea.
There were sausage rolls, savoury mini muffins and cucumber sandwiches (other flavours as well). Then came a wonderland of sweets - Queen of Hearts tarts, heart shortbread, cup cakes and wonderful (or should I say “magical”) meringue mushrooms - but the only effect they had on our size was our waistlines.
Then it was time to put masks on (not for Covid) and play Pin the Grin on the Cheshire Cat.
Throughout all of this was our magical fellowship. It’s was certainly worth all the effort put into the costumes and OF COURSE all the effort put in by Dorothy and Les. We are a very lucky club.
Thank you.
Chris Durrant Communicator of characters, companions, Cheshire cats and crazy costumes
AN UNEXPECTED AFTERNOON TEA
Have you ever had that weird feeling that you have fallen down a rabbit hole into an alternative reality? Well . . . if you had been lurking around the Bail’s house on the afternoon of 14th February 2023, you would have felt just that.
We had Mad Hatters, March Hares, Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, hats full of cakes, hats full of whistles, a cheeky Playboy bunny, a really strange woman with a bird cage on her head, a walking rose bush, a tyrolean maid and her big hatted friend and presiding over all was blonde Alice and her other Alice friends. And then, just when we thought we had them all, a one-eyed-one horned purple people eater walked onto the set
In fact it was the Probus Club of Eaton’s Mad Hatters Tea Party.
After a good laugh at all the effort put into the costumes we sat down to a lovely afternoon tea.
There were sausage rolls, savoury mini muffins and cucumber sandwiches (other flavours as well). Then came a wonderland of sweets - Queen of Hearts tarts, heart shortbread, cup cakes and wonderful (or should I say “magical”) meringue mushrooms - but the only effect they had on our size was our waistlines.
Then it was time to put masks on (not for Covid) and play Pin the Grin on the Cheshire Cat.
Throughout all of this was our magical fellowship. It’s was certainly worth all the effort put into the costumes and OF COURSE all the effort put in by Dorothy and Les. We are a very lucky club.
Thank you.
Chris Durrant Communicator of characters, companions, Cheshire cats and crazy costumes
2023 YEAR OF THE RABBIT CELEBRATIONS
A VERY SPECIAL PROBUS EVENT
Eh, what’s up Doc?
Well, let me see. A pink fluffy dragon flying from the ceiling, a stuffed rabbit hanging on the fence, paper lanterns adorning the tree branches but why that wascally wabbit?
Ah! Its Chinese New Year – Year of the rabbit, its Sunday 22nd January and we are at Bail’s place celebrating.
The table settings were a dead giveaway anyway – small bowls, Chinese spoons, chop sticks!!!!
On arrival we were presented with an awesome cocktail – some veridian green concoction topped up with champagne. It was truly delicious. Those who have been there know just how wonderful is the Bail’s garden – trees, shrubs, flowers, the occasional frog having its say and totally perfect weather – mild, no wind.
The company was as good as the setting and the weather. Dorothy bought out starter nibbles of a spring onion pancake with soy sauce and fantastic spring rolls with sweet chili sauce. Eventually, we assumed our seats and the feasting began. We shared out a tasty vegetable soup, then prawn salad with rice noodles, fried fish, superbly marinated ribs and the most enormous bowls of fried rice. Time then to draw breath, have a wine or three and talk to the special people around you.
Ultimately, Dorothy brought out the sweets – firstly a most interesting and authentic sweet potato and raisin cold, sweet soup and then custard tarts and FRIED MILK!!!! What a revelation! The fried milk was so, so good and hardly any of us had even heard of it, let alone tasted it.
As with all of Dorothy and Les’ events, it’s the little touches that make the difference. We were given Chinese red envelopes and inside was cash (well gold plastic coins and delicious chocolate one too), as is the Chinese tradition. Some lucky few scored fortune cookies – all good luckily and to round everything off, as fireworks are banned, we waved around sparklers.
Believe it or not, it was now quite late. If we were tired, spare a thought for Dorothy and Les who put many days of work into giving us all this most pleasurable occasion. Thank you so much, or as they say in China, 谢谢—Xièxiè
Chris Durrant Correspondent of pretend international activities.
A VERY SPECIAL PROBUS EVENT
Eh, what’s up Doc?
Well, let me see. A pink fluffy dragon flying from the ceiling, a stuffed rabbit hanging on the fence, paper lanterns adorning the tree branches but why that wascally wabbit?
Ah! Its Chinese New Year – Year of the rabbit, its Sunday 22nd January and we are at Bail’s place celebrating.
The table settings were a dead giveaway anyway – small bowls, Chinese spoons, chop sticks!!!!
On arrival we were presented with an awesome cocktail – some veridian green concoction topped up with champagne. It was truly delicious. Those who have been there know just how wonderful is the Bail’s garden – trees, shrubs, flowers, the occasional frog having its say and totally perfect weather – mild, no wind.
The company was as good as the setting and the weather. Dorothy bought out starter nibbles of a spring onion pancake with soy sauce and fantastic spring rolls with sweet chili sauce. Eventually, we assumed our seats and the feasting began. We shared out a tasty vegetable soup, then prawn salad with rice noodles, fried fish, superbly marinated ribs and the most enormous bowls of fried rice. Time then to draw breath, have a wine or three and talk to the special people around you.
Ultimately, Dorothy brought out the sweets – firstly a most interesting and authentic sweet potato and raisin cold, sweet soup and then custard tarts and FRIED MILK!!!! What a revelation! The fried milk was so, so good and hardly any of us had even heard of it, let alone tasted it.
As with all of Dorothy and Les’ events, it’s the little touches that make the difference. We were given Chinese red envelopes and inside was cash (well gold plastic coins and delicious chocolate one too), as is the Chinese tradition. Some lucky few scored fortune cookies – all good luckily and to round everything off, as fireworks are banned, we waved around sparklers.
Believe it or not, it was now quite late. If we were tired, spare a thought for Dorothy and Les who put many days of work into giving us all this most pleasurable occasion. Thank you so much, or as they say in China, 谢谢—Xièxiè
Chris Durrant Correspondent of pretend international activities.
2022 December 3rd Experience the inner City Delights of Perth
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Seven early risers from our Eaton Probus Club turned up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, for a 6 am start to board the Australind for our excursion to "Experience the inner City Delights of Perth."
We planned this outing for Pensioners who wished to use their free travel pass before it expired in December.
It all played out according to plan upon arrival at Perth station after a comfortable journey on the train.
We indulged in a coffee and snack at Trackside Bakery on the Station concourse, a good range of takeaway food in the seating area. A short drop in the lift to the ground floor, ready to hop aboard a free Cat Bus for our first stop. For those coming on the Yellow CAT, there is also Farmology Café at the CITY FARM Community Garden which was our first stop. Farm markets are held there on Saturday mornings. A fascinating place with something for everyone.
Stop 2 Claise Brook Lake
The "Impossible Triangle" has been erected in Claisebrook Square, East Perth. A bold and visible landmark for the wider community, the size of the sculpture increased from the planned height of 9 metres to 13.5 metres. The design striations on the polished aluminium reflect sunlight and artificial lighting and change dramatically between sunrise and sunset—a delightful stop with the baby waterbird chicks splashing in the lake.
Lunch was across the Martagalup bridge to The Camfield's excellent feed.
Victoria Gardens is one of Perth's earliest gardens, first planted in the 1800s. For many years the park was surrounded by light industry and residences and lay unrecognised. Then the area was upgraded in the 1990s as the centrepiece of the Claisebrook Cove Village development.
Many original trees still exist on the site, and it also features many artworks that celebrate the Indigenous history and culture of the area. Located on the City's eastern border, Victoria Gardens links the stylish urban surrounds of Claisebrook Cove with stunning views of the Swan River and magnificent Perth Stadium.
Stop 3 Harold Boas Gardens.
We hopped on a Cat bus, and in no time, we arrived at the gardens, and were treated to views of the City we had not seen for a long time.
Harold Boas Gardens is in Delhi St, West Perth. A 5-acre Perth Town Lot established here was named to commemorate the Suppression of the Indian mutiny and the 1877 crowning of Queen Victoria as Empress of India. In 1897-1898 the Gardens were initially called Delhi Square. In the 1970s, the park was renamed the Harold Boas Gardens in honour of the former Perth City Councillor, architect and town planner in the first half of the twentieth century. Surrounded by streets of tall apartment buildings, this tranquil oasis in the City is gorgeous. Even though it is close to the City, it is quiet and peaceful. It was nice to see signposts with the tree names, both the common and the Latin names. Large palm trees and Birds of Paradise are grown under the 100-year-old shade trees, giving a green view of the tiered layers wherever you look. The open grassed areas are luxuriously green and inviting—with a delightful pond with ducks frolicking in the water. The sounds of trickling water lead you to explore further. There was a lovely small waterfall under a giant branch, reaching out over the pond, offering shade to the many birds there. Paths lead you to explore further, and footbridges cross the small stream, meandering through the park. Brick paths that are easy to navigate lead you around corners that surprise with new delights. There are several large grassed areas and many wooden bench seats. There are no picnic tables or barbeques here. The Garden unfolds in a way that doesn't allow you to see the whole park at once, and you must explore it's delights. The stream's source is a delightful small lake at the top of the park.
Then back on the Cat and off for some retail therapy before returning to the Train station concourse for well-earned ice cream before our train journey home.
Les Bail, Outings Co-ordinator.
Seven early risers from our Eaton Probus Club turned up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, for a 6 am start to board the Australind for our excursion to "Experience the inner City Delights of Perth."
We planned this outing for Pensioners who wished to use their free travel pass before it expired in December.
It all played out according to plan upon arrival at Perth station after a comfortable journey on the train.
We indulged in a coffee and snack at Trackside Bakery on the Station concourse, a good range of takeaway food in the seating area. A short drop in the lift to the ground floor, ready to hop aboard a free Cat Bus for our first stop. For those coming on the Yellow CAT, there is also Farmology Café at the CITY FARM Community Garden which was our first stop. Farm markets are held there on Saturday mornings. A fascinating place with something for everyone.
Stop 2 Claise Brook Lake
The "Impossible Triangle" has been erected in Claisebrook Square, East Perth. A bold and visible landmark for the wider community, the size of the sculpture increased from the planned height of 9 metres to 13.5 metres. The design striations on the polished aluminium reflect sunlight and artificial lighting and change dramatically between sunrise and sunset—a delightful stop with the baby waterbird chicks splashing in the lake.
Lunch was across the Martagalup bridge to The Camfield's excellent feed.
Victoria Gardens is one of Perth's earliest gardens, first planted in the 1800s. For many years the park was surrounded by light industry and residences and lay unrecognised. Then the area was upgraded in the 1990s as the centrepiece of the Claisebrook Cove Village development.
Many original trees still exist on the site, and it also features many artworks that celebrate the Indigenous history and culture of the area. Located on the City's eastern border, Victoria Gardens links the stylish urban surrounds of Claisebrook Cove with stunning views of the Swan River and magnificent Perth Stadium.
Stop 3 Harold Boas Gardens.
We hopped on a Cat bus, and in no time, we arrived at the gardens, and were treated to views of the City we had not seen for a long time.
Harold Boas Gardens is in Delhi St, West Perth. A 5-acre Perth Town Lot established here was named to commemorate the Suppression of the Indian mutiny and the 1877 crowning of Queen Victoria as Empress of India. In 1897-1898 the Gardens were initially called Delhi Square. In the 1970s, the park was renamed the Harold Boas Gardens in honour of the former Perth City Councillor, architect and town planner in the first half of the twentieth century. Surrounded by streets of tall apartment buildings, this tranquil oasis in the City is gorgeous. Even though it is close to the City, it is quiet and peaceful. It was nice to see signposts with the tree names, both the common and the Latin names. Large palm trees and Birds of Paradise are grown under the 100-year-old shade trees, giving a green view of the tiered layers wherever you look. The open grassed areas are luxuriously green and inviting—with a delightful pond with ducks frolicking in the water. The sounds of trickling water lead you to explore further. There was a lovely small waterfall under a giant branch, reaching out over the pond, offering shade to the many birds there. Paths lead you to explore further, and footbridges cross the small stream, meandering through the park. Brick paths that are easy to navigate lead you around corners that surprise with new delights. There are several large grassed areas and many wooden bench seats. There are no picnic tables or barbeques here. The Garden unfolds in a way that doesn't allow you to see the whole park at once, and you must explore it's delights. The stream's source is a delightful small lake at the top of the park.
Then back on the Cat and off for some retail therapy before returning to the Train station concourse for well-earned ice cream before our train journey home.
Les Bail, Outings Co-ordinator.
2022 Eaton Probus Club's Annual Mystery Tour
2022 Eaton Probus Club's Annual Mystery Tour
What do the Holy Grail, Agatha Christie and a bus load of Probeans and friends on Wednesday 9th of November all have in common? Well they are all about mystery you see! But where were we going? The bus was really fancy with leather seats, so maybe an upmarket resort? They packed lots of water bottles, so maybe the desert? Anyway, we took off and headed southeast to . . . Boyanup????
Don’t panic we were only picking up two more passengers. Through Donnybrook and eastish through lush green fields dotted with willows most attractively shaped by hungry sheep and then on and on until we got to the “Quacking Frog and Tea Pot Shed”. There is a fine mystery for you - well not the tea pot shed, that was a shed filled with over 5000 tea pots but the quacking frog. Turns out it was a wonderful high tea. We split into two groups, one who had the high tea first while the second group went to the next attraction. Anyway, enough of the mystery - we went to BOYUP BROOK.
Now about that high tea - sandwiches, warm chicken Pattie’s, crumbed scallops, spring rolls, plus scones and a lovely blueberry cheesecake, washed down with tea or coffee. All this served on traditional China in a peaceful rural setting and nestled amongst 5000 tea pots - a must see!
The next stop was at the Masonic Hall and Pioneer Museum. There was really a lot to see and much memorabilia. Did we really recognise the old copper, concrete wash troughs and mangles - OF COURSE NOT!!!! A personal highlight was the little engine and train that once ran at Perth Zoo - I loved that as a child.
After the Museum we went to the Visitors Centre to wander at our own pace through the craft centre, the CarnabyCollection of beetles and butterflies, an Art Gallery with some really interesting works and outside “The Ploughman” holographic sculpture. We also bought lunch and wandered the streets or went to the Op Shop. Then it was all back on the bus, seat belts on, wriggle and settle into the seat for the 30 second trip around the corner to the Boyup Brook Classic Cars Museum. This was marvellous. There were old caravans just like the ones we used to have to hire in the 50’s and 60’s and lots of totally awesome cars that we didn’t own in the 50’s and 60’s (except the FJ Holden). There was a Jaguar, a Cadillac, an MG, a Porsche - vintage, historic, etc. we had a refreshing cup of tea/coffee and then back on the bus.
This time we travelled westish and Lo and behold we were at Frog Hollow. It was lovely seeing our frogs again - mine seemed to be missing until I found it under Janet’s foot. Les put up a lovely new sign hinting at more frogs for the future. Most of us braved the road crossing and bought an ice cream at the store. Then, back on the bus for the final time.
This was a most wonderful day. Thank you Les and Dorothy. And finally, the Adventure Award of the day goes to Isabel who tried to ride the sprung frog, got thrown, got clonked on the knee by said frog but bounced right back up as chirpy as ever.
Can’t wait for the next one.
What do the Holy Grail, Agatha Christie and a bus load of Probeans and friends on Wednesday 9th of November all have in common? Well they are all about mystery you see! But where were we going? The bus was really fancy with leather seats, so maybe an upmarket resort? They packed lots of water bottles, so maybe the desert? Anyway, we took off and headed southeast to . . . Boyanup????
Don’t panic we were only picking up two more passengers. Through Donnybrook and eastish through lush green fields dotted with willows most attractively shaped by hungry sheep and then on and on until we got to the “Quacking Frog and Tea Pot Shed”. There is a fine mystery for you - well not the tea pot shed, that was a shed filled with over 5000 tea pots but the quacking frog. Turns out it was a wonderful high tea. We split into two groups, one who had the high tea first while the second group went to the next attraction. Anyway, enough of the mystery - we went to BOYUP BROOK.
Now about that high tea - sandwiches, warm chicken Pattie’s, crumbed scallops, spring rolls, plus scones and a lovely blueberry cheesecake, washed down with tea or coffee. All this served on traditional China in a peaceful rural setting and nestled amongst 5000 tea pots - a must see!
The next stop was at the Masonic Hall and Pioneer Museum. There was really a lot to see and much memorabilia. Did we really recognise the old copper, concrete wash troughs and mangles - OF COURSE NOT!!!! A personal highlight was the little engine and train that once ran at Perth Zoo - I loved that as a child.
After the Museum we went to the Visitors Centre to wander at our own pace through the craft centre, the CarnabyCollection of beetles and butterflies, an Art Gallery with some really interesting works and outside “The Ploughman” holographic sculpture. We also bought lunch and wandered the streets or went to the Op Shop. Then it was all back on the bus, seat belts on, wriggle and settle into the seat for the 30 second trip around the corner to the Boyup Brook Classic Cars Museum. This was marvellous. There were old caravans just like the ones we used to have to hire in the 50’s and 60’s and lots of totally awesome cars that we didn’t own in the 50’s and 60’s (except the FJ Holden). There was a Jaguar, a Cadillac, an MG, a Porsche - vintage, historic, etc. we had a refreshing cup of tea/coffee and then back on the bus.
This time we travelled westish and Lo and behold we were at Frog Hollow. It was lovely seeing our frogs again - mine seemed to be missing until I found it under Janet’s foot. Les put up a lovely new sign hinting at more frogs for the future. Most of us braved the road crossing and bought an ice cream at the store. Then, back on the bus for the final time.
This was a most wonderful day. Thank you Les and Dorothy. And finally, the Adventure Award of the day goes to Isabel who tried to ride the sprung frog, got thrown, got clonked on the knee by said frog but bounced right back up as chirpy as ever.
Can’t wait for the next one.
PROBUS CLUB OF EATON WESTERN AUSTRALIA 30th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
PROBUS CLUB OF EATON WESTERN AUSTRALIA
30th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
On Monday 10th October 2022 the Probus Club of Eaton celebrated our 30th Birthday with a very special gathering.
Seventy-five people, made up of our executive, members, distinguish guests, including David Byatt from the South Bunbury Rotary Club which sponsored our formation and representatives of neighbouring Probus clubs attended the Eaton Bowling Club (our home venue) for our gala event of the year. This was an excellent crowd for what turned out to be a rather cold and windy day. Many people took the opportunity to dress up for the day, but the bad weather sent some of us scurrying back to our wardrobes for Plan B.
On arrival everyone was invited to have a cup of tea/coffee and our members were presented with a very special gift. This was a book of club events from 2014, entitled “Celebrating the 100th Edition of The Probus Club of Eaton Inc Newsletter”. It was designed by our wonderful President, Dorothy Bail, as a surprise for everyone and took the format of our club newsletter. In other words, it was photos, snippets of information and jokes. It really was a formidable production and was later lauded by our guest speakers. Each of our guests was presented with their own copy.
President Dorothy opened the celebration, introduced our distinguished guests and gave a brief history of the club, noting how it began as a male only club but admitted women the very next year. Some of our original and early members were named, especially those still associated with the club. Then it was time to introduce our guest speakers –
Once we had satisfied our hunger, the 51 prizes raffle began to be drawn (it took a while) thanks to the generosity of our club members. Some people even managed to score more than one prize. Throughout the morning, on the TV screens, there was playing a very skilfully created compilation of photos of our various outings. Dorothy Bail has such a talent for these things. It was difficult not to become engrossed looking for yourself and quite heart warming to see some members who are no longer with us.
This was a very memorable celebration that brought us together to enjoy each other’s company as we have for thirty years. We also have our booklet gift to help us remember the other warm and wonderful times we have had together. Now we need to move on to make more fascinating memories for the next thirty years.
by Chris Durrant
Publicity Officer
30th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
On Monday 10th October 2022 the Probus Club of Eaton celebrated our 30th Birthday with a very special gathering.
Seventy-five people, made up of our executive, members, distinguish guests, including David Byatt from the South Bunbury Rotary Club which sponsored our formation and representatives of neighbouring Probus clubs attended the Eaton Bowling Club (our home venue) for our gala event of the year. This was an excellent crowd for what turned out to be a rather cold and windy day. Many people took the opportunity to dress up for the day, but the bad weather sent some of us scurrying back to our wardrobes for Plan B.
On arrival everyone was invited to have a cup of tea/coffee and our members were presented with a very special gift. This was a book of club events from 2014, entitled “Celebrating the 100th Edition of The Probus Club of Eaton Inc Newsletter”. It was designed by our wonderful President, Dorothy Bail, as a surprise for everyone and took the format of our club newsletter. In other words, it was photos, snippets of information and jokes. It really was a formidable production and was later lauded by our guest speakers. Each of our guests was presented with their own copy.
President Dorothy opened the celebration, introduced our distinguished guests and gave a brief history of the club, noting how it began as a male only club but admitted women the very next year. Some of our original and early members were named, especially those still associated with the club. Then it was time to introduce our guest speakers –
- The Hon. Nola Marino MP, Federal Member for Forrest. Nola spoke about the worth of Probus, how such an organisation helps to enrich our lives and provide opportunities to interact with other people.
- Graeme Brown, WA Board Member Probus South Pacific Ltd who travelled from Perth on the day to address us. He spoke about how PSPL had survived a loss of membership and Covid troubles with the help of a government grant. He also described how six venues in Perth had been lit up in blue and gold to celebrate Probus Week.
- Mick Bennett, Shire President of the Dardanup Shire. Mick made a presentation of a 30 Year pin and certificate to Don Wass, our Life Member and gave a humorous account of our lively larrikin who is a most loved and valued man.
Once we had satisfied our hunger, the 51 prizes raffle began to be drawn (it took a while) thanks to the generosity of our club members. Some people even managed to score more than one prize. Throughout the morning, on the TV screens, there was playing a very skilfully created compilation of photos of our various outings. Dorothy Bail has such a talent for these things. It was difficult not to become engrossed looking for yourself and quite heart warming to see some members who are no longer with us.
This was a very memorable celebration that brought us together to enjoy each other’s company as we have for thirty years. We also have our booklet gift to help us remember the other warm and wonderful times we have had together. Now we need to move on to make more fascinating memories for the next thirty years.
by Chris Durrant
Publicity Officer
October 5th, Some of our Members enjoyed a High Tea.
Our club organised a rather special genteel outing for Wednesday 5th October 2022. Nine of us car pooled and drove to Little Wren Farm at Lake Clifton. This magical little gem of a place serves a rather wonderful High Tea.
After meeting at Australind Village we must have made excellent time because we arrived there too early. This necessitated us driving up and down the road pretending we couldn’t find the place (in joke). Eventually we arrived - still too early so we explored the gardens and the B & B on site - both of which were pretty impressive. Everything about Little Wren Farm has been designed by someone with both a sense of whimsy and of style. There are gorgeously coloured flowers, intriguing native plants and the odd fairy garden scattered about.
Now the food! No actually, now the wine. We all settled on the verandah with a glass of champagne (until it began to rain). In keeping with the magic of the place the glass kept filling itself up - how else could I have had three glasses!!!!! The tradition three tier High Tea cake stands had a great balance of savoury and sweet - both pretty and tasty. In addition to this (shared between two) we each had our own plate of two scones, cream, and tiny jar of homemade jam plus our individual choice of pot of tea.
You do get the idea that this was a pretty good day? Not much dinner was had that night.
Chris Durrant
Our club organised a rather special genteel outing for Wednesday 5th October 2022. Nine of us car pooled and drove to Little Wren Farm at Lake Clifton. This magical little gem of a place serves a rather wonderful High Tea.
After meeting at Australind Village we must have made excellent time because we arrived there too early. This necessitated us driving up and down the road pretending we couldn’t find the place (in joke). Eventually we arrived - still too early so we explored the gardens and the B & B on site - both of which were pretty impressive. Everything about Little Wren Farm has been designed by someone with both a sense of whimsy and of style. There are gorgeously coloured flowers, intriguing native plants and the odd fairy garden scattered about.
Now the food! No actually, now the wine. We all settled on the verandah with a glass of champagne (until it began to rain). In keeping with the magic of the place the glass kept filling itself up - how else could I have had three glasses!!!!! The tradition three tier High Tea cake stands had a great balance of savoury and sweet - both pretty and tasty. In addition to this (shared between two) we each had our own plate of two scones, cream, and tiny jar of homemade jam plus our individual choice of pot of tea.
You do get the idea that this was a pretty good day? Not much dinner was had that night.
Chris Durrant
September 29th local outing, A walk through Manea Park.
10 keen Eaton Probus Members met at the Parks Centre Cafe for coffee and a chat before heading off to the Park. Our timing was in sync with the season as there were many orchids and other wildflowers in full splendour. In typical Probus fashion, there was a lot of chatter and banter as we progressed along the path.
At the completion, those who were available to have retired to The Green Jade Chinese Restaurant for a well-earned leisurely lunch.
Les Bail,
Outings co-ordinator.
Eaton Probus Club Members went bowling in August.
On Monday 29th August 2022 an enthusiastic group of members met at the Bunbury Ten Pin Bowling Alley. This activity came about as a result of our call to members for suggested activities and a great idea it was too. There were eleven bowlers and two enthusiastic observers (our cheer squad).
It may be true that the gutter guards were in place in the alleys but this gave us all a chance to get a respectable score. Some of us had never bowled before, yet there was a healthy smattering of strikes and spares and NO scores to be ashamed of. It may also be true that by the end of two games there was the odd limp and one pulled muscle but as we only had to hobble to the eating area for a really superior meal of fish, chips and salad this proved not to be a problem.
As a club activity we must count this as a wonderful success.
Chris Durrant
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10 pin Bowlers in action!
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A special outing for 15 members of Eaton Probus Club. June 23rd 2022
Our frogs have arrived We have an Eaton Probus Frog Colony at Frog’s Hollow
The weather was dismal, with grey skies, and drizzling rain with no sign of the “window” of fine weather promised by Les and BOM. However, fifteen enthusiastic Probians met at the Mumbellup Pub to enjoy the warm open fires and a drink before lunch. The meals were real country pub fare and the company very enjoyable.
Off we went to Frog’s Hollow - opposite the Preston Valley Store - and deposited our frogs. They range from very small ones to a large rotund frog guarding our site. We have Richard (Sue Fogg’s friend) to thank for making two Eaton Probus Club signs. The rain was still not dampening our spirits and we headed home via the Bakeries.
Half an hour after arriving home we have our “window”! The rain has cleared and out west, there is a patch of blue sky!
Thanks to Dorothy and Les for another imaginative excursion on a gloomy winter day! A lot of fun and to be recommended next time you take the grandchildren to Gnomesville. Frog’s Hollow is just a few kilometers’s down the road!
Kerry Shardlow
The weather was dismal, with grey skies, and drizzling rain with no sign of the “window” of fine weather promised by Les and BOM. However, fifteen enthusiastic Probians met at the Mumbellup Pub to enjoy the warm open fires and a drink before lunch. The meals were real country pub fare and the company very enjoyable.
Off we went to Frog’s Hollow - opposite the Preston Valley Store - and deposited our frogs. They range from very small ones to a large rotund frog guarding our site. We have Richard (Sue Fogg’s friend) to thank for making two Eaton Probus Club signs. The rain was still not dampening our spirits and we headed home via the Bakeries.
Half an hour after arriving home we have our “window”! The rain has cleared and out west, there is a patch of blue sky!
Thanks to Dorothy and Les for another imaginative excursion on a gloomy winter day! A lot of fun and to be recommended next time you take the grandchildren to Gnomesville. Frog’s Hollow is just a few kilometers’s down the road!
Kerry Shardlow
A Mystery Day with Royal Gala.
On Thursday 9th June ten Probus Club of Eaton members joined the Royal Gala Mystery Tour. Some members were picked up at the Eaton bus stop just as the sun rose. The rest of us were picked up in stages as we headed out in the direction of Donnybrook and then on down the highway. The first mysterious stop was at a shed with two friendly dogs to greet us and as it turned out lots and lots of marron that we could look at but not touch (yer right we look like we would stick our mitts into tanks of armed crustaceans). Jeff, the owner gave us an interesting talk about such things as how they moult, how yabbies from over east are a pest and how they are sold for $50 per kilo.
Back onto the bus for the next stop, a big blue shed at Kirrup. It was the automatic fruit packing shed and it was mesmerising. Watching apples hurtle by on conveyors was fascinating - they zoom under cameras which photograph each one and then grades them by flipping them off the conveyors in varying appropriate directions. They employ about 20 people, manage 180 bins a day, for the local market and have a power bill of $5000 a day. AND the free apples they gave us were delicious.
Morning tea with a difference. It was the Blackwood Chocolate Emporium 1864 and we started off with a chocolate tasting - good enough to rival a wine tasting - milk, dark, caramel, pink and Rocky Road. This was followed by a genteel morning tea in proper matching cups and saucers and yummy goodness served on the three tier high tea trays. We had to force down lemon melting moments, chocolate ganache bites and carrot cake mini loafs. Certainly worth putting up with the rather chilly room.
Then it was back on the buses - there were two small ones and on to the Balingup Cheese Factory. Last time I was there I was somewhat unimpressed but this time I was really pleased because I found a small cast iron frog to place at Frog Hollow when we go. I think it’s about lunch time eh?
Lunch was at The Cidery in Bridgetown and was really nice - choice of three dishes and sweets. Getting the sweets order right proved to be rather difficult but there were a lot of us. We got to sample sweet or dry cider (twice) and very nice it was too. Back on the bus to a place that was really a mystery - 2/3 of the way to Nannup on the Balingup/Nannup Road we pulled up into someone’s yard and went into their wonderful, quirky, fire blazing home for afternoon tea (yes we were starving - NOT). There was tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits.
Now we come to what I thought was the highlight of the day. The owner of the house took us up to his shed and there was a beautiful, glistening, glowing, enormous wooden clock that he had made. We had a short lecture on the history of clocks and it was a real privilege to sit in the room with this most wonderful of things. You need to see it.
Then it was dark and we were approaching home. What made this Mystery Tour so special was that we visited places we would not likely go ourselves, but also other places we can go back to. Chocolate anyone?
On Thursday 9th June ten Probus Club of Eaton members joined the Royal Gala Mystery Tour. Some members were picked up at the Eaton bus stop just as the sun rose. The rest of us were picked up in stages as we headed out in the direction of Donnybrook and then on down the highway. The first mysterious stop was at a shed with two friendly dogs to greet us and as it turned out lots and lots of marron that we could look at but not touch (yer right we look like we would stick our mitts into tanks of armed crustaceans). Jeff, the owner gave us an interesting talk about such things as how they moult, how yabbies from over east are a pest and how they are sold for $50 per kilo.
Back onto the bus for the next stop, a big blue shed at Kirrup. It was the automatic fruit packing shed and it was mesmerising. Watching apples hurtle by on conveyors was fascinating - they zoom under cameras which photograph each one and then grades them by flipping them off the conveyors in varying appropriate directions. They employ about 20 people, manage 180 bins a day, for the local market and have a power bill of $5000 a day. AND the free apples they gave us were delicious.
Morning tea with a difference. It was the Blackwood Chocolate Emporium 1864 and we started off with a chocolate tasting - good enough to rival a wine tasting - milk, dark, caramel, pink and Rocky Road. This was followed by a genteel morning tea in proper matching cups and saucers and yummy goodness served on the three tier high tea trays. We had to force down lemon melting moments, chocolate ganache bites and carrot cake mini loafs. Certainly worth putting up with the rather chilly room.
Then it was back on the buses - there were two small ones and on to the Balingup Cheese Factory. Last time I was there I was somewhat unimpressed but this time I was really pleased because I found a small cast iron frog to place at Frog Hollow when we go. I think it’s about lunch time eh?
Lunch was at The Cidery in Bridgetown and was really nice - choice of three dishes and sweets. Getting the sweets order right proved to be rather difficult but there were a lot of us. We got to sample sweet or dry cider (twice) and very nice it was too. Back on the bus to a place that was really a mystery - 2/3 of the way to Nannup on the Balingup/Nannup Road we pulled up into someone’s yard and went into their wonderful, quirky, fire blazing home for afternoon tea (yes we were starving - NOT). There was tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits.
Now we come to what I thought was the highlight of the day. The owner of the house took us up to his shed and there was a beautiful, glistening, glowing, enormous wooden clock that he had made. We had a short lecture on the history of clocks and it was a real privilege to sit in the room with this most wonderful of things. You need to see it.
Then it was dark and we were approaching home. What made this Mystery Tour so special was that we visited places we would not likely go ourselves, but also other places we can go back to. Chocolate anyone?
So began the “Country Ramble” also known as “the Balingup/Golden Valley Tree Park” outing.
Those who arrived early at Dardanup Hall, soaked up the early morning warmth while we waited for everyone to gather.
A unanimous vote was then taken to drive the back road to Donnybrook, this being a wise move, as our sensory pleasures began almost as soon as we turned off at Boyanup. The quiet, traffic free road enabled us to travel slowly, enjoying the wonderful autumn colours peeking through and above the heavy fog hanging in the valley.
We briefly joined the madding crowd as we passed through Donnybrook, before we once again, could amble down a country road as we made our way to Brookhampton Hall. This was a stop to do a couple of laps of the hall, see where the school had once been, check out the well-maintained war memorial and read the plaques. On learning that this was where the Brookhampton Bell Ringers meet, there was some deliberation given as to whether we had the credentials to join them. It is said that you don’t have to know music, you just must be able to count. We decided not to bother leaving a contact number for them to call us and moved on to the Old Thomson Brook Church. This historic building, nestled among the bush, is the former St. Thomas Anglican Church, and is now hired for weddings and musical concerts. The church was viewed from all angles, and the proverbial brick dunny and surrounding undulating farming country were admired before we moved on. Although it is only a 12 KM drive until we were back on the highway at Kirup, it was obvious that it is a long-settled area with established trees, all seeming to outdo each other in beauty and colour, making it a very pleasant drive.
After a quick dash down the highway, we met up with the other small group who had been unable to do the ramble. Our group needed their morning tea by now and eagerly tried out nearly all the choices of goodies on display in the cafe, afterwards giving good ratings on their choice.
Then, another 2km drive and the GPS’s were saying we had “reached our destination”, Golden Valley Tree Park. We scattered in all directions to look over the heritage listed site that was begun over one hundred years ago, and is now the largest arboretum in WA, before eventually gathering to settle down in the gazebo and enjoy each other’s company while we ate our picnic lunches.
Then, after an abundance of lovely scenery, beautiful autumn colours, a little exercise, and a most convivial lunch break, it was time to go our own ways, as we parted company and headed for home.
Our outing seemed well timed with the season for colour, and before the change in weather had the chance to blow the leaves away. Well planned Les.
Happy Hour Friday March 25th
An enthusiastic group met at the Eaton Bowling Club last night for the first Happy Hour since the new venue opened.
The usual “Probus hum” was at full volume as we made the most of a very sociable evening with good company, very affordable drinks and pizzas.
An enthusiastic group met at the Eaton Bowling Club last night for the first Happy Hour since the new venue opened.
The usual “Probus hum” was at full volume as we made the most of a very sociable evening with good company, very affordable drinks and pizzas.
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Eaton Probus meets Victoria Park Probus March 1st
On March 1st, about 20 Eaton Probus Club members met with 10 members from the Victoria Park Probus Club at Ridley Park, Australind. These travellers were staying at the Riverside Caravan Park in Eaton for a week, and had done several sightseeing trips already. They mingled with Eaton members, sharing stories of branch activities as well as learning of other places of interest. Tea and Coffee (from the local BP station) as well as a delicious slice made by Cheryl Carton was enjoyed by all of us. A most enjoyable get-together. Judy Gilder |
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February 23rd PROBUS Games & Picnic
On a warm, windy afternoon, 28 Eaton Probians gathered on the reserve at the Collie River mouth for a couple of hours of fun and fellowship. There was a choice of croquet or bowls to play while we waited for dinnertime. Croquet proved to be harder than it looked with the hoops being almost invisible in the bright light. However, a lot of fun was had by those who participated. While this was going on, Les was valiantly cooking dinner for those who had taken the option of pre-ordering barbecue packs. Soon the wine glasses were out and everyone was tucking into a delicious meal. There was a real buzz of conversation and although we had set up chairs and even tables, people wandered around enjoying the opportunity to simply have a chat. After the main meal was finished a beautiful slice was handed around. Thanks to Robyn Sabourne for providing this even though she was unable to attend. Finally, there was mention of mosquitoes which helped some to decide it was time to pack up and head for home. As we left the setting sun put on a magnificent display of colour, making us wish we could stay longer. While those of us who were there expressed our thanks to Dorothy and Les for organizing yet another wonderful outing, it would be remiss not to thank them again in writing. We are truly fortunate as a club to have so many opportunities to enjoy each other’s company in relaxed surroundings. Here’s to the next event. Moira Macpherson |
Happy Birthday To Us, Eaton Probus Turns 30 🎂🥂🍾🎉🎈
This year marks 30 years since our club was formed.
At the February meeting we celebrated with a cake and enjoyed watching some of our time– honoured club members joining in the cutting of it.
All four participants joined within the first few years of the club being formed.
Our two Life Members, Inaugural President Bill Ivory and Don Wass were not able to be present on the day
This year marks 30 years since our club was formed.
At the February meeting we celebrated with a cake and enjoyed watching some of our time– honoured club members joining in the cutting of it.
All four participants joined within the first few years of the club being formed.
Our two Life Members, Inaugural President Bill Ivory and Don Wass were not able to be present on the day
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Mangrove walk & picnic dinner
Congratulations again to Dorothy and Les for putting on another successful event for us. We are so lucky to have such a vibrant Club with such diverse activities. Thirty of us met up at the Koombana Bay Lookout, masked and ready to go. We split up into 2 groups and were treated to a narrative of the area by Dorothy heading one group and Les the other. As we were outside and keeping reasonably distanced we didn't need the masks but those who preferred to, wore them. The work Dorothy and Les put into organising these activities was again obvious with the history of the number of ships that are still buried in the area even now, as well as information about the local flora and fauna. Those that wanted to took a quick look up the Lookout, 31 steps so not too bad, gives a terrific, all round view of the area. Having walked gently around the mangroves we got back into our cars and met in the area of the new apartment blocks. Armed with chairs and all we wanted to eat (Paula and I sneaked off the local chip shop) we sat on the lovely grassed area overlooking the bay. A few of us went on a walk across the relatively new pedestrian bridge that most of us have seen lit up at night but never walked on. Taking the time to read the names of the ships wrecked and years that they came to grief in the area that are embedded in the concrete on the bridge. What a beautiful evening we had, fellowship with friends. Thanks again to Dorothy and Les for the time you take to make our trips so enjoyable. Ian & Paula Farrell |
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Australia Day January 26th 2022 “We are one, but we are many…” as the Other National Anthem goes. Forty two Probians, spouses, friends, grandchildren and rellies gathered at the home of Dorothy and Les for a shared meal. Not a lamb chop in sight, we all tucked into tasty Fish’n’chips. The weather was perfect and after beautiful ice cream, made by our own Queen of the Dessert, Dorothy, we departed for the estuary nearby to “grab a possie” to watch the fireworks. As usual they were very pretty and lifted our Covid-tired spirits. For some it was a first-time experience and another item off the bucket list. Big thanks to Dorothy and Les once again for allowing us to share their very special garden! Kerry Shardlow |
Royal Gala Mystery Tour
On a beautiful, very early, morning, Kerry, Isabelle & I were picked up to go on a
Mystery Tour. We had several stops to fill the bus with passengers, sometimes from the
side of the road, between Bunbury and Manjimup where we had a brief comfort stop.
After that it was very much a case of “where are we and where are we going” as we criss-
crossed roads in all directions until we stopped at a campsite in the bush for morning tea.
There was a sign telling me “you are here” which wasn't a lot of help as I had no idea how I
had got there. Then it was down more roads, all with lovely views of the wonderful south-
ern forests or lush pastoral scenes, before suddenly arriving at the shores of Hamelin Bay,
where we watched the stingrays swimming in the shallow water. Then, it was obvious we
were heading toward Augusta, but to our surprise, we went straight through town to have
a look at the Marina before going back for a delicious lunch at the Augusta Hotel. First
stop after lunch was at the Shell Museum, displaying 30,000 items from all over the
world. Then it was more criss-crossing of roads and suddenly we were at the Chocolate
Factory which caused a mad scramble to get off the coach to maximise our time there,
something that most of us managed admirably. By now it was time for a cuppa, so the stop
made was at Simmos, which gave those of us who hadn’t had an ice-cream at the Choco-
late Factory to have one and someone even enjoyed a second. We really felt our age as we
drove through Dunsborough to the Busselton Jetty as the people we saw were predomi-
nately “leavers” who were all happy to give us a wave, not realising that all too soon, they
would be taking day trips like us. After a detour to drop a passenger off in Capel, we ar-
rived back in Bunbury after a 12 hour day, one that was definitely value for money.
On a beautiful, very early, morning, Kerry, Isabelle & I were picked up to go on a
Mystery Tour. We had several stops to fill the bus with passengers, sometimes from the
side of the road, between Bunbury and Manjimup where we had a brief comfort stop.
After that it was very much a case of “where are we and where are we going” as we criss-
crossed roads in all directions until we stopped at a campsite in the bush for morning tea.
There was a sign telling me “you are here” which wasn't a lot of help as I had no idea how I
had got there. Then it was down more roads, all with lovely views of the wonderful south-
ern forests or lush pastoral scenes, before suddenly arriving at the shores of Hamelin Bay,
where we watched the stingrays swimming in the shallow water. Then, it was obvious we
were heading toward Augusta, but to our surprise, we went straight through town to have
a look at the Marina before going back for a delicious lunch at the Augusta Hotel. First
stop after lunch was at the Shell Museum, displaying 30,000 items from all over the
world. Then it was more criss-crossing of roads and suddenly we were at the Chocolate
Factory which caused a mad scramble to get off the coach to maximise our time there,
something that most of us managed admirably. By now it was time for a cuppa, so the stop
made was at Simmos, which gave those of us who hadn’t had an ice-cream at the Choco-
late Factory to have one and someone even enjoyed a second. We really felt our age as we
drove through Dunsborough to the Busselton Jetty as the people we saw were predomi-
nately “leavers” who were all happy to give us a wave, not realising that all too soon, they
would be taking day trips like us. After a detour to drop a passenger off in Capel, we ar-
rived back in Bunbury after a 12 hour day, one that was definitely value for money.
November 2021 Garden Group visit to Parin's garden in Gelorup.
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We followed our hosts on a tour of a well-planned, well-manicured and well maintained garden. The garden layout revealed many little sections, some with fruit trees under the mesh; others were mass plantings of various flowering plants, whilst the roses were an absolute picture. At the main entrance to the house were some of the original plants from when the property was purchased, above them was Alan's version of a bonsai. Having seen a bonsai exhibition, he had a Cotoneaster tree with two quite beautiful Azaleas below; he decided he could do something with the Cotoneaster. The result is quite spectacularly unusual.
We wandered leisurely to a more informal area and into Alan's slightly more commercial citrus grow-out area, all neatly labelled and in rows.
Alan has cut back his nursery side of things to suit the "retired" title, although he is happy to say semi-retired.
On the other hand, Judy had retained a covered grow out area to continue her passion for propagating plants and potting them ready for various farmers markets around the district.
Unfortunately, our time was up too quickly, and it was time to go. Nola purchased a couple of Clivias, and we each were gifted a nice juicy Pomelo to take home.
Les Bail
We wandered leisurely to a more informal area and into Alan's slightly more commercial citrus grow-out area, all neatly labelled and in rows.
Alan has cut back his nursery side of things to suit the "retired" title, although he is happy to say semi-retired.
On the other hand, Judy had retained a covered grow out area to continue her passion for propagating plants and potting them ready for various farmers markets around the district.
Unfortunately, our time was up too quickly, and it was time to go. Nola purchased a couple of Clivias, and we each were gifted a nice juicy Pomelo to take home.
Les Bail
Maureen Worthington Photo
- Red Ranger's Conservation Park & Hotham Valley Steam Ranger.
There were a good variety of birds and they really were beautiful.
Some birds were also friendly, particularly those in the walk- in aviary, and particularly with Les. A large black cockatoo took one look at Les, flew onto his shoulder and repelled all other comers. Eventually (after a long time), in true piratical fashion a green parrot managed to perch on Les'
other shoulder. Arrrrrrrrrrr! Eventually, the bird man of Peel made his escape.
Some people were a little disappointed that they could not feed the animals as advertised. Quite a few of the cages said no feeding, and in the others the animals were not really interested. It was a cool, wet Sunday morning and they probably just wanted to go back to bed.
The rain and poor weather were quite a bonus however, because our lunch was transferred to the cafe at the Craft Centre where we had a wonderful meal.
It was a real roast dinner - beef, veggies AND Yorkshire pudding. This was followed by a choice of two desserts - I had apple pie. I say again, this was wonderful.
Then the bus took us into Dwellingup where the smell of burning coal filled the air. Deep breaths and memories of holidays in Collie as a child! The train part of today was just superb. They have done such a good job restoring and running this Hotham Valley train. It's also wonderful seeing all age groups filling in on the day. The seats were comfortable AND THEY HAD WINE.
A train through the Aussie bush on a day that had seen rain but was now dry with the air clear and fresh (apart from the small of coal) and everything glittering and clean - what more could you ask for. We clacked and rolled our way passed waterfalls, rock outcrops, trees, shrubs and down the scarp to the plain. We stopped at a siding - name escapes me - blame the wine - and while we all stretched our legs the steam engine changed ends, joining the Diesel engine for the slog up the scarp and back into Dwellingup.
Oh yes!!!!! It was a great day.
Chris Durrant Railway outing reporter
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Manjimup Day trip to Heritage Park
Although only eight of our members went to Manjimup for the day, it didn’t in any way diminish the fun we had When our driver Michael arrived with the little people mover to pick us up, we were delighted to see how roomy & comfortable it was. I’m sure that Michael & Les sitting in the front, were thrilled to have six “sat-navs” sitting behind them. Our Manjimup day started with a visit to the Power– Up Museum where we got to play with all the features and made power to turn on the lights. Next, we went through the Timber Museum, where the dangers of the industry were brought home to us along with the story of life in the area. There was time to play in the playground before going up-town to see how the streetscape has been beautified, and where some of us got to feel much better after helping the Manjimup economy with some retail therapy. The bonus was to have all the trees around town looking lovely with their autumn leaves glowing in the sunshine. We sincerely thank Michael Macpherson for volunteering to drive us on this excursion. Donnelley River and Tram outing with Royal Gala
Another fantastic day for those Probus people brave enough to face the early start and late finish. It was well worth the effort but this trip was not without its hiccups. In retrospect they seem trivial but at the time were quite stressful. It wasn’t the freezing wait at the bus stop - we had our Probus mates to talk to or the many pickups in Boyanup, Donnybrook, Manjimup - they were quite fun seeing these places, it was the loo crisis. When we arrived at the tram in Pemberton, there was only one loo. I personally stood in line for 20 minutes and then was told there wasn’t enough time for morning tea. We rushed to grab something to take on the tram and then waited for other late passengers to arrive. So why were we pressured? The tram itself was wonderful, rattling and clanking through the karri forest, over some bridges and eventually to the cascades. It was really beautiful and water gurgling over rocks is always special. It was a bit difficult to capture the peace of the area for a photo shoot though as there was a swarming “cascade” of kids. Some of the larger trees we passed were over 600 years old, although most of the forest was 80 year old regrowth. Then it was in to Pemberton for lunch and another loo crisis - out of order, out of paper. Two worked though. The sandwiches for lunch were lovely and then it was a trip through the bush to the boat ramp. This river cruise was AWESOME. The boat captain, Peter, has such a love of the land and this river that it was infectious. This short river is “pristine” with banks just how nature created them - reeds, trees, dead logs, bushes. Much too quickly we were sailing past a rocky headland with massive boulders that had fallen from the cliff littering the banks. The sandbar which blocks the river was ahead of us and there waiting was a white bellied sea eagle - an enormous bird that took off and hovered over the cliff. The Southern Ocean was pounding on the shore and the wind blew strongly - most atmospheric and magical. |
Les Bail photos
Sherron Spragg photos
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Coffee Club morning tea at Moira and Michael's residence
Photos of some of the people who enjoyed the hospitality shown to us by our hosts, Michael & Moira Macpherson at the April Coffee Club get-together. After a few showers earlier, the sun came out and we were able to sit outside, relax, chat and appreciate our time together. |
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Thompson Brook Garden Group Outing On April 7, our Probus Club had the wonderful honour of Coral Russell sharing her special garden with us. There are many superlatives to describe the garden but the one I like best is “pleasing”. This garden made you feel warm, welcome, comfortable and pleased with the world. This garden was made from the heart. It was created by someone who is just like us but with an inspired vision. A landscape designer did not sit down with pencil and paper and plot out a garden. This garden grew out of the land it sits in and the lives of the people who live there. This is a garden of “rooms”. Little grottos of green with tables and chairs dotted about, sometimes with a theme like “the blue room” but at others evolving from a collection of objects or rusted bits of metal. Linking the rooms together are stepping stones created by Coral using old china, horseshoes, gears, almost anything in fact. Also scattered about are rocks - ancient and evocative. Beyond the garden you can see the cattle in the paddocks, the dust rising from the “bull pit” and surrounding it all the deep quiet of the country (except when the bus horn kept blaring). There were also fruit trees and a comprehensive vegetable garden. And speaking of food, we were treated to a wonderful lunch - a plate of every conceivable thing you would want for a cold meat and salad meal and this was followed by a delightful mulberry tart ( some of which were on sale with some jam for those who wanted it). This was a most peaceful and pleasing day and for those inspired by the greenery we stopped off at a hardware store in Donnybrook on the way home and many people left with arms full of punnets. Thank you Coral and Dorothy. I feel that I experienced something special that day. Chris Durrant Roaming Outings Reporter |
Sherron Spragg photos
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Collie Day Trip. Thirteen Members met at the Coalfields Museum in Collie for morning tea and a tour of the Museum. We were met by Tom and his wife upon arrival, Gloria and her team were in the background making sure that the morning tea was was ready to go. It was a scrumptious morning tea, punctuated by some lively conversation and catch up with old associates. The museum was fascinating and reflected the love, care and devotion that it takes to maintain that level of presentation. The Anglican Church was pretty special and made even more so by Judy Gilder playing the organ. Gwen, herself a lay preacher, spoke of the decline of the congregation over recent years. This is making it very difficult to maintain the church, the low numbers of active parishioners making it difficult to have their own dedicated Minister and having to share them with other diocese.
Three Waters Cruise Deluxe BBQ Cruise. For the second year in a row a group of thirty made up of Eaton Probus members and friends boarded the “Elandra” eager to get underway for our informative hour long cruise to our private lunch venue, a beautiful shady spot under the trees on the bank of the Collie River. We disembarked and selected our spot to wait for the skipper to set up and cook our BBQ lunch. It was a fairly warm day and few kept Joanne busy at the bar while some availed themselves at the self service tea and coffee station. We were not to be disappointed, the skipper had not lost any of his cooking skills since last year, the steak was to die for, you would be hard to please if you did not enjoy lunch. There was plenty of birds to see both ways on the trip, we saw lots of nests with babies on board, Pied Cormorants with chicks covered in the nest, Australian Darters and their chicks also. The resident Ospreys were hanging around their nest but I saw no chicks,
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This seems to be an echo all through our society at present. All in all it was a very relaxing, enjoyable day, lots of ambling around town looking at points of interest with the tour ending at Black Diamond pool, then it was the drive home for some. Thanks to all who participated.
I feel they were there but a little too high up to see. This was Elandra's last trip for the season so she will be laid up now October. If you feel you would like to experience more of Michael and Joanne's hospitality they move up north to operate cruises out the Arbrolhos Islands during our winter months.
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Twenty members of the Eaton Probus Club gathered Leschenault Homestead
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Thursday the 14th of January approximately twenty members of the Eaton Probus Club gathered Leschenault Homestead for a guided tour and a chance to enjoy a piece of Bunbury history.
We were given an overview of the properties’ history by our tour guide, Mrs Merrilyn Gollan who is a direct descendant and who lived on the farm as a child. She also book brought along some photos to look at and together with her excellent commentary made the visit a really good morning out. It was interesting to learn that she and our recently retired member, Don Wass were neighbours as children, and it was fun to listen to some their exploits as they relived the past. Once the visit was over, we travelled to Les and Dorothy Bail’s residence for a very enjoyable morning tea and we were once again given more history on the early Bunbury and its residents by Merrilyn Gollan A very good time was had by all, Ken Sabourne |
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Photos Dorothy Bail
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Wellington Dam Mural Picnic Day
Morning Tea with the Smiths Photos Sherron Spragg & Kerry Shardlow
March Coffee Club, hosted by Janet & Bob Smith, was really a February/March get-together. Due to the most recent lockdown, we had had to forego Coffee Club in February and to judge by the chattering, anyone going past would have thought it was a group who hadn't seen one another for several months. It was a convivial morning tea on a lovely autumn morning, with friends sharing delicious food, and enjoying each other's company, what more could we ask for.
Dinner at the Highway HotelA group of fifteen gathered at the Highway Hotel for dinner in February.
Thursday night was chosen as the three specials, Ribs, Parmi & Steak are available although our selections were varied and not restricted to those options. Although we enjoyed our time together, none of us felt inclined to wait and see if there was a band or disco afterwards, we were all happy to admit our age and go home. Thanks Cheryl for organizing something a bit different. |
Garden Group's High Tea Hosted by Dorothy & Les BailPhotos by Sherron Spragg
A SUMPTUOUS HIGH TEA Forget Claridges, forget The Ritz, forget Raffles in Singapore, even forget Hyacinth’s candle light suppers because “The ONLY place to be Is the Bail’s High Tea”. And on Thursday 4th March, that’s exactly what the Eaton Probus Club did. We were seated in the atmospheric garden room (AKA the verandah) in warm and happy surroundings. The ladies were in their POSH frocks and hats and the gentlemen looked stunning, especially Max and Michael in their bow ties. There was fine bone china and a glass of bubbly to start. As with all High Teas there were finger sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, sausage rolls and scones (cherry ones) jam (rhubarb) and cream. However, our High Tea also had Chicken, cheese and leek mini pies, tuna samosas, curried chicken cups and did I mention the Mediterranean crostini – with the most gorgeous pink egg and bacon jam? Add to that salmon mousse on a super crunchy cucumber base and honeydew melon with ham or salami. Is that all? Well no, there was tangy, gorgeous lemon sorbet followed by SWEETS. There were blueberry tarts, caramel tarts, rose cream puffs and Persian pistachio biscuits, and did I mention the chocolate coated strawberries? There were meringues, cupcakes, red velvet fudge and just in case you were not already on a sugar rush, there were Italian chocolates. After deep reflection of this wonderful, cosmopolitan High Tea what was my personal favourite? So hard to choose but I decided the watermelon cups with cranberry cheese filling were like nothing I had ever tasted before – such a combination of flavours. This was one incredible evening. Dorothy and Les must be thanked and commended. This was an evening like no other, to be remembered and talked about for ages to come. I feel so privileged to have been there to experience it. What was your favourite? Thank you Dorothy and Les for your organizational skills, your culinary skills and for just being you. Chris Durrant |
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AL FRESCO DELIGHT
PROBUS COFFEE CLUB BREAKFAST MONDAY 11th JANUARY 2021 Everyone is talking about how pleasant this get together turned out to be. It was held at Sherron and John’s house amid the lush green garden with views of the water twinkling in the estuary. On arrival you were greeted with plates of jewel coloured fruit on the tables that lived up to its promise when you took a bite – cool, tasty and refreshing. The garden setting was beautiful with furniture nestled in the shade (mostly) and ranged from round tables, comfy chairs to folding tables. Yes, we did all fit, just. There was even a table for tea and coffee – so well organized. The “piece de la resistance”, however, was the Chef in residence. Once again Sherron had organized the best pancake maker in the West and bacon and egg burger cook extraordinaire, Beth Gibbons to cater to our voracious appetites. Well if they weren’t voracious before, they were after we spotted the caramel sauce and the array of jams. |
It would be fair to say that the scintillating conversation within the fence matched the silver sparkling water outside. The weather was kind to us – warm with little wind and even the insects had been coaxed to go elsewhere.
As John said, “Can’t wait ‘til next year.” |
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PROBUS. PENGUIN ISLAND CRUISE
Once again we tagged along with Gannaways for a very special day out. The bus trip to Perth was made interesting by the truck fire in the southbound lanes of the highway near Myalup. Luckily, we were headed north and were only delayed for about 10 minutes. We made it to the ferry just in time (I think they were waiting for us). Its only a short trip from Shoalwater Bay to Penguin Island but already one had the holiday vibe. The tide was in so there was no one trying to walk to the island then, but on our return trip there were four brave (or foolish) people attempting it. As soon as we got off the ferry, it was onto the glass bottom boat. To me this was the highlight of the trip. We were guided around the Shoalwater Marine Park – 670 hectares of turquoise water, creamy weathered limestone islands, sea grass mats and lots of wildlife. We were so fortunate because we saw sea lions, dolphins, sting rays, cormorants, ospreys and pelicans. One sea lion was most fascinated by a diver in the water, then it swam very close to the boat before waddling ashore to join the other large lumps asleep on the shore (a bit like me sunbathing at Koombana Bay). The dolphins also swam alongside the boat and posed for photos. At one point a sting ray was directly below the glass bottom of the boat – it was about one meter accross.The islands themselves were interesting, some appearing to have ancient root systems in them. One was called “Whale Island” and it really did look like one. Another has the osprey nest on top and the resident was home – again a great photo opportunity. |
I won the “How many pictures can you take of the limestone islands” Competition – I’m a bit soft in the head when it comes to islands, limestone, water, dolphins . . .
The next activity was probably everyone else’s highpoint. There are about 1200 Little or Blue penguins in the marine park and ten of them live in the refuge and you can see them being fed. These tiny characters had been rescued injured or orphaned and are kept at the refuge as they wouldn’t survive in the wild. Their handler was a very funny and dedicated lady and the penguin were bundles of pearlescent and blue gorgeousness. Then it was time to get in line for the ferry back and lunch. We were back in Bunbury by about 4:30pm. This was a really fantastic trip. |
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EATON PROBUS FREMANTLE LUNCH CRUISE Photos: Dorothy Bail
Yet another successful Gannaways trip that was enjoyed by all. It was basically a full bus load and after a painless trip to Perth, driven by Rainbow Jenni we arrived at Barrack Street jetty. Boy! has that part of Perth changed. We were welcomed on board by a very smiley Captain Cook Cruises crew and were instantly underway. As someone said, you don’t realise how wide the Swan River is at Perth until you are out on the water. It really is impressive. While the weather wasn’t great, it was still a pleasant sight, with ferries crossing from South Perth and other craft zooming back and forth. The water was generally calm with just the odd wobble as we crossed the wake of another boat. We sailed down the Swan, passed Point Walter and the ominous cliffs of Blackwall Reach. Then there were homes, beautiful homes, lots of beautiful homes. In some places the limestone cliffs were very close and rockfalls had crated tiny secluded crescent beaches. How lovely it would be to climb down there from one of those beautiful homes and sit there with your feet in the water sipping a chilled wine? |
It was about then that we noticed the enormous container carrier bearing down on us with its accompanying tugs. Lunch was served while it passed. The meal was an excellent smorgasbord with hot and cold selections plus sweets. Did I mention the complimentary beverage?
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THE RACE THAT STOPS A NATION.
Well the first Tuesday in November brought us all together again. Seems there is a horse race somewhere. Didn’t draw a great crowd this year but Eaton Probus did its bit. We were certainly a winner in the fashion stakes - fancy fillies, marvellous mares, suave stallions (I don’t want to know about the geldings!).
Everyone made a serious effort to dress up and look special. It was really nice to see and the headgear went from flamboyant to frivolous, from a red fedora to skimpy fascinators, from large crown hats to fluffy pink flowers.
The food was of an equal standard as was the champagne cocktail and the fruit punch.
There were a number of sweeps - plenty for everyone. The $1 sweep allowed you to choose a horse based on their lovely long eyelashes, the jockeys’ colours or their exotic pose in the cartoon pictures - in other words the normal way I pick a winner (or not). Then, Ian ran a proper sweep - most professionally and proficiently - the $2 and $5 sweeps. Won by someone other than me.
Then, it was time for the race - huddled around one of the TV sets - full of excitement and anticipation. Then, it was over again for another year and time to move on to sweets. The sweets were the real winner of the day - a strawberry meringue smothered in custard, cream and delicious fresh berries. It was almost too pretty to eat.
To enter the spirit of the day there were games. One seemed to involve bashing a sock horse with a pool noodle. What was that all about? It did bring forth many squeals and shrieks. It cannot be said that Eaton Probus is full of hot air because in the game of bobs (blowing a ball with a straw, across a board and into a stable) many were found wanting. Then there was the game of find the sandwiches, although there was no winner until long after everyone had gone home (thanks Dorothy).
We are all most thankful to Dorothy and Les for opening up their home for us in this way and all the trouble they must go to both before and after the event. Cheers you two!
Well the first Tuesday in November brought us all together again. Seems there is a horse race somewhere. Didn’t draw a great crowd this year but Eaton Probus did its bit. We were certainly a winner in the fashion stakes - fancy fillies, marvellous mares, suave stallions (I don’t want to know about the geldings!).
Everyone made a serious effort to dress up and look special. It was really nice to see and the headgear went from flamboyant to frivolous, from a red fedora to skimpy fascinators, from large crown hats to fluffy pink flowers.
The food was of an equal standard as was the champagne cocktail and the fruit punch.
There were a number of sweeps - plenty for everyone. The $1 sweep allowed you to choose a horse based on their lovely long eyelashes, the jockeys’ colours or their exotic pose in the cartoon pictures - in other words the normal way I pick a winner (or not). Then, Ian ran a proper sweep - most professionally and proficiently - the $2 and $5 sweeps. Won by someone other than me.
Then, it was time for the race - huddled around one of the TV sets - full of excitement and anticipation. Then, it was over again for another year and time to move on to sweets. The sweets were the real winner of the day - a strawberry meringue smothered in custard, cream and delicious fresh berries. It was almost too pretty to eat.
To enter the spirit of the day there were games. One seemed to involve bashing a sock horse with a pool noodle. What was that all about? It did bring forth many squeals and shrieks. It cannot be said that Eaton Probus is full of hot air because in the game of bobs (blowing a ball with a straw, across a board and into a stable) many were found wanting. Then there was the game of find the sandwiches, although there was no winner until long after everyone had gone home (thanks Dorothy).
We are all most thankful to Dorothy and Les for opening up their home for us in this way and all the trouble they must go to both before and after the event. Cheers you two!
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Great Southern Delights Overnight Tour With Gannaways.
As an overnight trip, this was really exciting. We left on Wednesday 28th October 2020 and returned (rather late) the next day. After a pick up hiccup we headed off to Collie. The weather was much better than the last time we did this - the sun was shining, the fields were still green and the kangaroo paws at the top of the hill were spectacular - as were the rainbow cattle. Hang on, that can’t be right! Damn Polaroid sunglasses. Morning tea was very special - at the Collie Railway Museum. We had scones, jam and cream and were poured cuppas from large tea and coffee pots - the real thing. We were given the history of the railways in Collie, from 1898 to the return of a steam train in 2004. There was a model railway with lots of tiny trains, including THOMAS!!! I found a bigger version of him out the back too. After Collie the vegetation changes, smaller thinner trees and lots and lots of Balgas (blackboys/grass trees to those of you who don’t speak Noongar- my other words are Barna and Mia). There was a huge open cut mine, mullock heaps and the occasional phallic chimney. Beyond Darken you get farms and grazing land and the emergence of rocky outcrops - wizened fingers of the Yilgarn Craton left behind by time.
Lunch on that first day was again the real country thing - checked table cloths, pumpkin soup with bread, sandwiches and a superb slab of cream sponge. All home made and served to us in the Glenalbyn Tearooms, part of the Wagin Historic Village Museum. The village itself is well worth a visit. By mid-afternoon we were at the Narrogin Motel, the “we” being 10 Probus people and 14 Busselton people - many of whom had been on the Wildflower tour. After an early tea - roast dinner no less, we headed out for the highlight of our trip. The sun was just setting and it was magical. There were silhouettes of trees, rose gold fields and the sun playing peek-a-boo as the hills came and went. Once we reached the dryandra forest the white tree trunks were a little spooky. That’s when Max, the bus driver slammed on the brakes and saved the life of a gorgeous little echidna who was trying to cross the road without looking both ways. Barna Mia (Nyoongar for animal home) Sanctuary was so good. There was almost a full moon and we wandered down tracks lit by red sporadic red lights to feeding places where we sat on logs while the tiny marsupials came almost to our feet seeking the fruit and food that had been spread out. We saw Mala, Boodie, brush tail possums and a glimpse of a Billy. Then it was a drive through the dark back to the motel. The next day we went back to Wagin and stopped at the big ram - ask Sherron to see her photo and hear her story about the sneakiness of John. Then it was on the Katanning for a visit to the Sale Yards. This was fascinating - cost $25 million and used local labour. The flies there were most friendly. The next stop was a farm machinery showroom, repair shop and home of glossy blue and yellow monsters. No really, it was impressive, as was the mosque in the town and the Premier Mill Hotel where we had lunch. Nigel Oakey, who was responsible for its restoration gave us a most interesting description of his plan, trials and tribulations. This is now way too long, so suffice to say, “we came home”. By our resident reporter Chris Durrant. Photos Les Bail |
Inaugural Probus Day October 5th 2020 Photos Sherron Spragg
If that was the inaugural Probus Day get together, we now have to hope there is another next year. It was great.
We met at the Colin Spragg Playground and very quickly sorted ourselves into two “teams”, the Sun Lovers and the Shade Seekers, although there was much fraternizing between them.
Actually, it was a very social day all round, and quite magical too. For instance, sausages and burgers appeared already cooked. (In truth, it was Dorothy and Les who cooked them). Thank you, you two, but it seemed pretty magical to the rest of us.
It’s the small details that make the difference, for instance they had hamburger rolls for the hamburgers and finger rolls for the sausages and I’m Not being sarcastic! The day was well patronized with 45 people turning up, amongst them Colin Whiteman, the President of PAWA and PAWA South West Area representative, along with his wife Anna, who is the Vice-Treasurer for PAWA. We also had some potential members and guests join our celebration.
After everyone had mingled for a time there was suddenly a call from Les for “The Sausage People”. I had leapt up and got halfway through a rendition of “YMCA” before I realized he meant the food was ready. And great food it was.
After the sausage/burger/salad came the “Great Lemon Slice Challenge”. And the winner is . . . Mmmmm, I had better have another slice to make sure.
It was an excellent day. Thank you to John O-T for getting there at 9:00am to “bags our possie” (excuse spelling as I don’t think I’ve ever written that word in spite of it being such a part of our childhood). Thank you Les and Dorothy, the committee ladies for the sweet treat, and everyone else who worked so hard behind the scenes to make the magic happen. Chris Durrant
If that was the inaugural Probus Day get together, we now have to hope there is another next year. It was great.
We met at the Colin Spragg Playground and very quickly sorted ourselves into two “teams”, the Sun Lovers and the Shade Seekers, although there was much fraternizing between them.
Actually, it was a very social day all round, and quite magical too. For instance, sausages and burgers appeared already cooked. (In truth, it was Dorothy and Les who cooked them). Thank you, you two, but it seemed pretty magical to the rest of us.
It’s the small details that make the difference, for instance they had hamburger rolls for the hamburgers and finger rolls for the sausages and I’m Not being sarcastic! The day was well patronized with 45 people turning up, amongst them Colin Whiteman, the President of PAWA and PAWA South West Area representative, along with his wife Anna, who is the Vice-Treasurer for PAWA. We also had some potential members and guests join our celebration.
After everyone had mingled for a time there was suddenly a call from Les for “The Sausage People”. I had leapt up and got halfway through a rendition of “YMCA” before I realized he meant the food was ready. And great food it was.
After the sausage/burger/salad came the “Great Lemon Slice Challenge”. And the winner is . . . Mmmmm, I had better have another slice to make sure.
It was an excellent day. Thank you to John O-T for getting there at 9:00am to “bags our possie” (excuse spelling as I don’t think I’ve ever written that word in spite of it being such a part of our childhood). Thank you Les and Dorothy, the committee ladies for the sweet treat, and everyone else who worked so hard behind the scenes to make the magic happen. Chris Durrant
Gannaways Narrogin Wildflower Tour
The West Australian wheatbelt is awesome.
Three Eaton Probus people and 16 Busselton “extras” experienced this awesomeness 1st-3rd September 2020. Thanks Gannaways for a great trip that included Jenny driving us up the Collie hill through the worst hailstorm in years, stomping around on 2.5 billion year old rocks and masses of orchids.
The weather was not wonderful at first but that gave us the added extra of a visit to Jesse Martin’s replica settlement so we could eat our gourmet sandwiches out of the rain and biting wind in the “Inn”. What an amazing 84 year old he is!
The accommodation was great at the Albert Facey Motel in Narrogin and the food highlight was the home style roast dinner and sticky date pudding that they made for us at the Narrogin Senior Citizens’ Centre.
Each day we had a local person on the coach to tell us about the area and answer our questions.
The tin horse highway is a tribute to our wonderful Aussie sense of humour and it’s certainly worth a visit to giggle your way to Kulin. And now to the orchids - totally wonderful but ask to see Dorothy’s photos. Don’t ask to see mine because every time I zoomed in the wind blew. There were Donkey Orchids, Spider Orchids - yellow, white, red, Cowslip Orchids and way more.
But for me, it's all about the trees and rocks - jarrah and redgums giving way to salmon gums under (eventually) wide blue skies, golden fields of canola and the tender green of young wheat crops, and of course Jilakin and Yilliminning Rocks.
Yes it was GOOD! Christine Durrant
The West Australian wheatbelt is awesome.
Three Eaton Probus people and 16 Busselton “extras” experienced this awesomeness 1st-3rd September 2020. Thanks Gannaways for a great trip that included Jenny driving us up the Collie hill through the worst hailstorm in years, stomping around on 2.5 billion year old rocks and masses of orchids.
The weather was not wonderful at first but that gave us the added extra of a visit to Jesse Martin’s replica settlement so we could eat our gourmet sandwiches out of the rain and biting wind in the “Inn”. What an amazing 84 year old he is!
The accommodation was great at the Albert Facey Motel in Narrogin and the food highlight was the home style roast dinner and sticky date pudding that they made for us at the Narrogin Senior Citizens’ Centre.
Each day we had a local person on the coach to tell us about the area and answer our questions.
The tin horse highway is a tribute to our wonderful Aussie sense of humour and it’s certainly worth a visit to giggle your way to Kulin. And now to the orchids - totally wonderful but ask to see Dorothy’s photos. Don’t ask to see mine because every time I zoomed in the wind blew. There were Donkey Orchids, Spider Orchids - yellow, white, red, Cowslip Orchids and way more.
But for me, it's all about the trees and rocks - jarrah and redgums giving way to salmon gums under (eventually) wide blue skies, golden fields of canola and the tender green of young wheat crops, and of course Jilakin and Yilliminning Rocks.
Yes it was GOOD! Christine Durrant
Photos Dorothy Bail
Back in business 1st coffee club morning tea. Photo credits Carl Carton
The decision was made to hold our first coffee morning, since lock-down at a members house was a great success, and the Carton's offered themselves as hosts. Membership Officer, Carl checked in the twenty-three members and directed us into a warm, friendly environment in the kitchen dining area. The scene set for a very social morning tea, fit for a King. It was great to catch up after such a long-stagnant time. You could hear a constant buzz of conversation as people caught up with each other and the latest gossip.
A beautiful scale model of a Beacon Hill house, Cheryl purchased in San Francisco, in pack form, was on display in the corner of the room. Cheryl had purchased this while visiting San Francisco. From memory, I think Cheryl said it took about six months to assemble before presenting it to her three granddaughters. Sadly, now the children have finished with it, and Cheryl has decided to sell it, imposing and beautiful as it is, it takes up a lot of room.
We vacated Cheryl and Carl's home around eleven a clock, feeling stimulated, excited and looking forward to our first meeting since March on Monday the 20th. We are all praying we do not have to go back into lock-down any time soon!
The decision was made to hold our first coffee morning, since lock-down at a members house was a great success, and the Carton's offered themselves as hosts. Membership Officer, Carl checked in the twenty-three members and directed us into a warm, friendly environment in the kitchen dining area. The scene set for a very social morning tea, fit for a King. It was great to catch up after such a long-stagnant time. You could hear a constant buzz of conversation as people caught up with each other and the latest gossip.
A beautiful scale model of a Beacon Hill house, Cheryl purchased in San Francisco, in pack form, was on display in the corner of the room. Cheryl had purchased this while visiting San Francisco. From memory, I think Cheryl said it took about six months to assemble before presenting it to her three granddaughters. Sadly, now the children have finished with it, and Cheryl has decided to sell it, imposing and beautiful as it is, it takes up a lot of room.
We vacated Cheryl and Carl's home around eleven a clock, feeling stimulated, excited and looking forward to our first meeting since March on Monday the 20th. We are all praying we do not have to go back into lock-down any time soon!
Gannaways Back-roads Mystery Tour Photo credits Dorothy & Les Bail
The first day of July saw a number of Probus members on a Gannaways Mystery tour and what a mystery it was!
Picked up at 8,15 am at the Bunbury Bowling Club – then a short trip to Busselton to refuel the bus and we met up with another coach. A comfort stop at Gannaways head office before we set off on the tour.
All the back roads to Nannup and the “Loose Goose” chalets and function centre. This facility was under new management Lyn and Kieran Curtis who had started just prior to the lock-down in March. Consequently, we were their first group to attend following the relaxation of the Covid-19 rules. We were made very welcome and were presented with a wonderful morning tea spread – scones and jam, scones jam and cream, a fruit platter, 2 types of cake – a butter cake and a apricot and almond cake – just superb!
Once leaving Nannup, more back roads through the bush, which was looking particularly beautiful. Toured along the Nannup – Bridgetown Road. Oh! Maybe lunch in Bridgetown. No, as we turned down Sears Road – Lunch in Manjimup. We had a tour around the old Donnelly Mill town site (which is now a holiday village) saw emus and kangaroos. No people. The town site was bigger than I imagined it would have been.
No again for Manjimup, as we turned down Cosy Creek road – no eateries down this road! As we travelled on it became obviously Quinninup was our destination.
More twists and turns and ending at the new Quinninup Tavern. The old tavern burnt down approximately four years ago and subsequently rebuild. Here again we were the first coach group to visit. The tavern managed our large group very efficiently and we were all given lunch timely and comfortably.
In the bush opposite the tavern there were more kangaroo’s- that seemed interested in what we were all doing as they went about their business of foraging for food.
I did notice that on the table there were water glasses with the name of “Goose beer” so maybe we had a goose theme going on as well!
Leaving Quinninup the tour travelled up Muir highway to Grays Road to Pemberton and other comfort stop before we meandered our way home - Pimelea, Seven Day Road, Stewart Road, Sues Road then Bussel Highway back to the Bunbury Bowling Club at 6.30 pm.
An extremely enjoyable day!
Janet Smith,
President.
The first day of July saw a number of Probus members on a Gannaways Mystery tour and what a mystery it was!
Picked up at 8,15 am at the Bunbury Bowling Club – then a short trip to Busselton to refuel the bus and we met up with another coach. A comfort stop at Gannaways head office before we set off on the tour.
All the back roads to Nannup and the “Loose Goose” chalets and function centre. This facility was under new management Lyn and Kieran Curtis who had started just prior to the lock-down in March. Consequently, we were their first group to attend following the relaxation of the Covid-19 rules. We were made very welcome and were presented with a wonderful morning tea spread – scones and jam, scones jam and cream, a fruit platter, 2 types of cake – a butter cake and a apricot and almond cake – just superb!
Once leaving Nannup, more back roads through the bush, which was looking particularly beautiful. Toured along the Nannup – Bridgetown Road. Oh! Maybe lunch in Bridgetown. No, as we turned down Sears Road – Lunch in Manjimup. We had a tour around the old Donnelly Mill town site (which is now a holiday village) saw emus and kangaroos. No people. The town site was bigger than I imagined it would have been.
No again for Manjimup, as we turned down Cosy Creek road – no eateries down this road! As we travelled on it became obviously Quinninup was our destination.
More twists and turns and ending at the new Quinninup Tavern. The old tavern burnt down approximately four years ago and subsequently rebuild. Here again we were the first coach group to visit. The tavern managed our large group very efficiently and we were all given lunch timely and comfortably.
In the bush opposite the tavern there were more kangaroo’s- that seemed interested in what we were all doing as they went about their business of foraging for food.
I did notice that on the table there were water glasses with the name of “Goose beer” so maybe we had a goose theme going on as well!
Leaving Quinninup the tour travelled up Muir highway to Grays Road to Pemberton and other comfort stop before we meandered our way home - Pimelea, Seven Day Road, Stewart Road, Sues Road then Bussel Highway back to the Bunbury Bowling Club at 6.30 pm.
An extremely enjoyable day!
Janet Smith,
President.
Dot Wherrit
March has been a busy month.
President Dorothy had one last very pleasant duty to perform before she handed the reins to our newly elected President Janet Smith. That was to induct three new members to our club, Dot Wherrett, Max Hancock , Cheryl Carton. They were warmly welcomed over morning cuppa tea.
March has been a busy month.
President Dorothy had one last very pleasant duty to perform before she handed the reins to our newly elected President Janet Smith. That was to induct three new members to our club, Dot Wherrett, Max Hancock , Cheryl Carton. They were warmly welcomed over morning cuppa tea.
After meeting lunch at the Malcolm's
After our March meeting we regrouped at Lesley and Max Malcolm's patio to enjoy a pre-ordered fish and chip lunch. What great idea that turned out to be, superb venue, delicious fish and chips topped off with great company. It does no come much better than that! The one thing missing was the newspaper wrapping around the fish and chips.
After our March meeting we regrouped at Lesley and Max Malcolm's patio to enjoy a pre-ordered fish and chip lunch. What great idea that turned out to be, superb venue, delicious fish and chips topped off with great company. It does no come much better than that! The one thing missing was the newspaper wrapping around the fish and chips.
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Augusta Cruise on the Blackwood with Gannaways tours
We were picked by Gannaways at 7.30 am in Bunbury and proceeded down the Bussell Highway picking up a few more passengers in Busselton and continued our journey to Augusta. We stopped off in Margaret River for morning tea and comfort stop. Arriving at the boat, moored in the Hardy Inlet, in good time to embark for our cruise up the Blackwood River with our Captain providing a lively commentary along the way. Most of us were surprised how wide the Blackwood was at the Ocean end (Hardy Inlet.)The river begins at the junction of Arthur River and Balgarup River near Quelarup and travels in a south westerly direction through the town of Bridgetown then through Nannup until it discharges into the Southern Ocean at Hardy Inlet near the town of Augusta. Hardy Inlet has several islands – namely Molloy Island and Thomas Island. We cruised up as far as Malloy Island and learnt the history of the Island from the early days up to the present day. The mouth of the river has attracted interest in its various points of opening and closing over the last 100 years, Duke Head at the west side being a benchmark location for the shifting mouth. The river has 41 tributaries including Dinninup Brook, Balingup Brook, St John Brook, Boyup Brook, Tweed River, Ti Tree Gully, Christmas Creek and Tanjannerup Creek. There were Dolphins and a numerous water birds and Osprey to be seen. We arrived back at our mooring in time to board the coach for a short journey to the Augusta Hotel for a pre-ordered lunch. After a hearty lunch we boarded the coach again for a drive-by tour of the new marina. Time marches on when you are having fun so Dianne (our driver) pointed our nose for home, a great days outing. |
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March 2020 Coffee Club at Bail's
What magnificent weather for a morning tea in a lush green garden, sun shining warmly with plenty of shade under the trees. Twenty-seven members and two visitors sat and chatted well into the late morning, a pleasant social gathering. A welcome change from our regular Café Coffee meets. |
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February 2020 Three Waters Deluxe BBQ Cruise
Sixteen Eaton Probus members met at the Collie River pickup point for our Three Waters Deluxe BBQ cruise and were surprised to see the contingent of thirteen Probus members from Manjimup, already there raring to go! We were not waiting more than few minutes before our Three Waters Cruise vessel, Elandra, glided in to take us on board for what was to be a delightful three and a half hours of relaxation and food. Captain Michael provided an excellent commentary along the way as we took in the beauty and tranquility of the Collie River. There were plenty of water birds to look at and old trees growing out over the water broken only by the odd farming property coming down to the waters edge. We saw many points of interest as we cruised along, passing under two new bridges, with Millbridge and Treendale to either side of the boat. It took almost an hour to arrive at our picnic site on the riverbank. A nice shady area with table and chairs with a BBQ all ready to be fired up by Michael and Joanne, the hostess come deckhand. Both were busily preparing, cooking and setting up for a scrumptious meal. In no time at all, we had been well looked after, fed, watered, the gear was packed, stowed and we were underway back up the river. All agreed it was a great morning’s outing, which combined with the company of the Manjimup club just topped it off. Thank you, Michael and Joanne. |
FEBRUARY 2020.
Three new members inducted at February Meeting.
Pauline Headley, Jo Bright & Ken Bright were inducted by President Dorothy. It is always exciting to have new members join us at the Probus Club of Eaton. They each bring new ideas, new stories and experiences. Pauline in fact rejoined as she had been a member a couple of years ago and we welcome her back.
Les Bail
Three new members inducted at February Meeting.
Pauline Headley, Jo Bright & Ken Bright were inducted by President Dorothy. It is always exciting to have new members join us at the Probus Club of Eaton. They each bring new ideas, new stories and experiences. Pauline in fact rejoined as she had been a member a couple of years ago and we welcome her back.
Les Bail
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Four new members inducted.
President Dorothy had the pleasure of inducting four new members to our fold. This coincides with our Reunion Day event for our past and present members. We conducted our normal meeting, that included the induction of the new members. This happened before an extended morning tea to allow our visitors to relax and enjoy some fellowship. President Dorothy had put together several videos of historic outings and events as well as our more recent activities. These were looped and played continuously during the morning tea. Colin Whiteman and his wife, Anna, Don Faulks and his wife, Glenda were among the invited guests. Colin recently took over from Don as the Southwest club’s representative to PAWA. A great get together as the slide show attested to. Les Bail |
Donald Wass was rewarded for many years of voluntary service to the Eaton community and surrounds with-in the Dardanup Shire. The man in blue overalls, as he is affectionally known to his family and close friends, was the recipient of the Senior Citizen of the Year by the Dardanup Shire President, Mr. Mick Bennett at a ceremony on Australia Day.
Don has been a consistent influence on those around him, both young and old, with his approach to environmental voluntary work that he doggedly pursued over many years. An example would be his firm belief that he and others like him could have an impact on cotton bush eradication in isolated areas without the use of harsh chemicals. He is an avid beekeeper and has shared his extensive knowledge to many just starting out and mentoring them to their first harvest. He readily discusses the important role bee play in our environment and how we must take steps to look after their welfare.
I personally have only known Don and Rose in recent years and have developed a very deep respect for them both. Well deserved recognition of your lifelong passion for all things environmental, that has grown stronger as the years pass.
Les Bail, Outlinings .Coordinator for Probus Club of Eaton.
Don has been a consistent influence on those around him, both young and old, with his approach to environmental voluntary work that he doggedly pursued over many years. An example would be his firm belief that he and others like him could have an impact on cotton bush eradication in isolated areas without the use of harsh chemicals. He is an avid beekeeper and has shared his extensive knowledge to many just starting out and mentoring them to their first harvest. He readily discusses the important role bee play in our environment and how we must take steps to look after their welfare.
I personally have only known Don and Rose in recent years and have developed a very deep respect for them both. Well deserved recognition of your lifelong passion for all things environmental, that has grown stronger as the years pass.
Les Bail, Outlinings .Coordinator for Probus Club of Eaton.
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Photos Kerry Shardlow
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Garden Group Outing to U scape Garden Centre Busselton.
26 of us rocked up enjoy morning tea with Jamie and his team at U scape Garden Centre. We were a happy bunch and there was some great social interaction going on over coffee. At 11am Jo Ann gave us a talk on pot plants their needs and care. I hope that everybody was able to take something home that would help us look after our plants with a more professional touch. Unfortunately, they had to switch off the fans during the talk so we could hear. We then had time browse the displays inside and outside. It was a very warm day, so after a wander around, a few made purchases from the huge range on display. I think most departed to eat lunch elsewhere, but Jamie thanked me for organizing the visit and hoped we enjoyed the day and he did not seem worried about us not staying for lunch Jean Windsor, Garden Group Coordinator.. |
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2019 CHRISTMAS LUNCH AT THE OLD COAST ROAD BREWERY It is hard to believe that it is 12months since we boarded a coach for the 2018 Christmas lunch but here we are doing it all over again. We met at the Pratt road boat ramp parking area and awaited the arrival of our booked Go West coach to take us out to the Brewery. There was a small hiccup with our booking, it was booked for the 19th not the 16th but it was quickly sorted out and we were on our way. A few had driven themselves out, so they were able to hold the fort until the coach travellers arrived. It was great venue with a beautiful outlook. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately we were inside and not outside with heat and flies. Fifty-three of Eaton probus members and visitors as well as four guests from two other clubs took our seats at three large beautifully decorated tables. It was a huge well-prepared meal that hit the spot. With the venue being a brewery, distillery and cidery, there was plenty of options for those having a drink. With everybody being in the spirit of Christmas, it was a great day for fellowship, friendship, fun and food. |
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2019 Mandurah Canal Lights with Gannaways
Fifteen Eaton Probus Members, eagerly awaiting an exciting night ahead, were picked up at Australind to join the Gannaways Mandurah Canal Lights Tour, We arrived at the Mandurah foreshore after a very comfortable and uneventful journey. After disembarking, we made our way to Cicerellos for our fish and chip dinner. It was a very balmy evening with not a breath of wind, and it did not improve once in the restaurant, all the widows were open but not attracting any breeze. The fans were on full blast, but it was still very hot with the sun coming though the windows onto our backs. The restaurant was chocked to capacity with three other coach loads of eager patrons. Nevertheless, the meal was quite adequate, first course was a very tasty seafood chowder followed by a serve of fish and chips, finally a serve of ice cream. Upon completion of our meal Jenny, our Driver/Hostess mustered us all together and we made our way down to the waiting boats. This area was also a hive of activity with people listening to Christmas Carols sung by a young lass, a beautiful lit outline of a train and carriage caught plenty of attention as a backdrop for photos and Father Christmas ho, ho, hoeing and ringing his bell. We were shepherded through the throng of people onto a catamaran that was almost exclusively for our group,in preparation for our next treat. It was marginally cooler on the boat but not quite dark enough to take our place in the flotilla of every shape and sized vessel imaginable that were eager to get underway. Eventually we took our place in the line up and with our bow pointing toward the canals we were off. As we entered the canals, we passed a few houses that had a few lights and various motifs before we hit the bonanza, WOW! The evening weather was superb, with a slight breeze that brought the temperature down to a comfortable level (thank goodness). In what seemed like no time at all we were cruising comfortably back to the landing to disembark. All in all, a very enjoyable evening and thanks to all involved, with special thanks to Jenny our Driver/Hostess she was charming, unflappable, professional and an excellent driver. |
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A COFFEE GROUP OUTING WITH A DIFFERENCE WAS THE GO FOR OUR LAST HURRAH FOR DECEMBER
We arranged to meet at the Featured Wood Gallery at Australind at 9.30 am for a picnic morning tea in the grounds. Vice President John provided us with cakes, slices and sticky buns, as it happened to coincide with his birthday. We sat in the charming patio area, the Curator John Ablett came and introduced himself to our group and provided us with his life history and what to expect when we finished morning tea and moved through the retail area where evidence of John's artistic skills abounded. We entered the Museum display and what treatment we were in for. Curator John then released his passion for what was to be an enthralling hour or so of unbiased stories from various historic world conflicts. John retold personal stories and exceptional feats from the enlisted servicemen and women from the Commonwealth forces. He showed us, in detail, the difference in weapons carried by our enemies and our troops. We finished our tour in a very sombre and emotional mood after such a professional and heartfelt presentation. There was far too much to fit on our website so you should visit yourself to glean the full benefit of what is on offer at the Featured Wood Gallery and Museum. Let the slide show provide the validation for my comments. Notwithstanding the retail section in itself is like visiting a fine arts gallery where you can appreciate John's artistic skills and purchase a talking piece for your home. Many thanks to John and his wife, Helen, for providing such a well presented, clean and tidy venue to finish off our Coffee Club Outings for 2019. |
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Three stop whistle tour with Royal Gala.
Eleven intrepid travellers boarded the coach at 6.45 am for Greenbushes lithium mine site. We started with a self-guided tour through the Discovery Centre in the town. We were also fitted out with our safety gear in preparation for the actual mine site tour. Along with our guide, we piled aboard the coach for a short journey to the mine site. Our knowledgeable guide provided a full history of the mine and various stages of the workings, from the old original open cut mine to the new lithium mine site followed by a tour of the processing plant. It was interesting to learn that the Greenbushes mine site predates the Kalgoorlie Golden mile by a few years. "Greenbushes, founded as a mining town in 1888 following a surveyors discovery of tin in 1886. Greenbushes, named after the bright green bushes that contrasted against the grey eucalyptus trees." We journeyed on from the mine to Greenbushes Pool for morning tea. A delightful picnic ground that is popular with the local residents. Our next stop, a visit to a marron farmer's operation, where we were privileged to a step by step description of the marron farming industry. Everyone left there a lot more knowledgeable than they had when they arrived. Next stop was a fabulous lunch at the Northcliffe Hotel. Fed and watered we were off again to visit the green tea plantation and once again it was an eye-opening experience. Our guide explained- "Meerup tea Estate is a family-run farm; we do it all from growing, processing to packaging the tea. Our background mainly based on cattle and avocado farmers. In 2007 we embarked on our tea journey, little did we know those tiny green seedlings would turn into such tasty tea. In 2013 after six years of patiently nurturing and weeding the tea plants, we searched for an appropriate tea processing plant. The tea processing plant, established after collaboration with Kawasaki in Japan; we could not have done this without our excellent interpreter, Hiroshi. The processing plant was shipped over from Japan and was set up by a team of Kawasaki employees, none of whom could speak a word of English. They quickly and efficiently set up the machinery and gave us a two-day crash course on how to use the equipment. So finally, after two seasons, we managed to perfect the tea process. We started selling our tea for the first time in September 2016. We do hope you enjoy your cup of tea because a lot of thought and effort has gone into every aspect of this tea process. We are committed to the zero use of pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and all those other things put on food to prolong shelf life. We believe a healthy drink needs to be clean a free of any contaminants." After an extremely long day, we headed for home, arriving at about 8.30 pm. |
Garden Group combined with Kerry’s end of year Sundowner.
Some months ago, Kerry downsized into her new abode in Eaton and invited our members for a sundowner as an expanded Garden Group outing. For the avid gardeners, it showed how much was achieved in a short space of time. What a vast difference to what some of us had seen, when she first took possession of the beautiful sized house and block. Those non-gardeners were also well catered for, with complimentary champagne cocktails in the ample outdoor space. Thirty plus members relaxed and socialized in perfect late afternoon weather. Our members each brought a plate to share that provided a diverse buffet of finger food. What a fantastic way for Garden Group and non-gardeners to end the year's activities for 2019. |
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Our November Coffee Club morphed into breakfast at Sherron Spragg's home.
Sherron, her fiance, John, and Beth, her chef friend of many years, cooked up a breakfast that was fit for a king. A happy group of Eaton Probus club members had a very memorable breakfast. Our regular coffee club get togethers have been interspersed with breakfasts this year, and Sherron's capped off a delightful year of the coffee club meetings. , 2019 Melbourne Cup Lunch at the Bail's
Beautiful weather, the race that stops a nation and a well dressed group of Eaton Probarians, what could go wrong? Nothing! We all had a faboulous day, good food, good company and plenty of friendship, fellowship and fun was had by all. Let the slide show tell the story. Looking forward to next November. |
Mandurah Combined Probus Club hosted the 2019 South West Get Together at the Mandurah Offshore Fishing & Sailing Club, an excellent venue for our special day. Congratulations to all who played a part in organizing a fine tuned interesting day. Our club was represented by eight members, who participated in the fun, friendship, fellowship and FOOD! Well done Mandurah.
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President Dorothy inducted and welcomed our two newest members,
Hazel Barnes & Val Hislop to The Probus Club Of Eaton. Hazel & Val are seen here
receiving their membership package.
Hazel Barnes & Val Hislop to The Probus Club Of Eaton. Hazel & Val are seen here
receiving their membership package.
Our October meeting had a special significance for one of our founding members, Donald Wass. When he was called upon to come forward to receive his life membership certificate. Don joined Probus for the long haul as one of the founding member for "The Probus Club of Eaton" 27 years ago and has been an active member ever since. Don was very humble when accepting his award typical of the character of the man who unconsciously gives freely back to the community in so many ways. It just happens that Probus stayed on his radar all those years, we thank Donald Wass.
Burswood Casino and Optus Stadium Tour with Royal Gala
The Royal Gala coach picked up eleven Probus members from Eaton, on their monthly run to the Casino with the option of a Stadium tour. In no time at all, we arrived at the Casino to be met with a lunch voucher for the Carvery and a token for a flutter on the Keno wheel. We enjoyed an excellent early lunch, so we did not miss the 12-45 pm deadline to be transported over to the stadium and what an eyeopener that was. A magnificent well-appointed structure that lacked for nothing. Our guide provided us with a real in-depth behind the scenes informative tour that held everyone’s attention for an hour and a half. Then back to the casino for another little flutter and a drink. Certainly, a tour to remember.
The Royal Gala coach picked up eleven Probus members from Eaton, on their monthly run to the Casino with the option of a Stadium tour. In no time at all, we arrived at the Casino to be met with a lunch voucher for the Carvery and a token for a flutter on the Keno wheel. We enjoyed an excellent early lunch, so we did not miss the 12-45 pm deadline to be transported over to the stadium and what an eyeopener that was. A magnificent well-appointed structure that lacked for nothing. Our guide provided us with a real in-depth behind the scenes informative tour that held everyone’s attention for an hour and a half. Then back to the casino for another little flutter and a drink. Certainly, a tour to remember.
Kojonup Wildflowers & Kodja Place with Royal Gala
Eleven keen Eaton Probus members boarded the Royal Gala Coach at 7 AM at the bus stop at Eaton Fair Shopping Centre for what turned out to be a top day of activities, good weather, good company and interesting things to see along the way. After picking up members of the Dardanup seniors at Dardanup, some others at the Bunbury Station and Boyanup, we continued on and collected our Hostess Sue. In true Royal Gala style we took the less popular roads to our morning tea stop in the Kojonup Historical Precinct. It was necessary to split into two groups to have a guided tour of the Military Barracks Museum as we had a full complement on the coach. Whilst the first group were in the museum the second half partook of some refreshments provided by the crew. We had time to have a wander around the precinct before the all aboard call was made to journey onto our next stop, Kodja Place for a guided tour and a look around the site including the Rose Maze. Our tour was conducted by well-known Indigenous Elder Jack Cox, who gets a lot of enjoyment from relating some stories from the old days and explaining some of the many artefacts on display. Our very nice lunch, which was topped off with a Drumstick ice-cream, was provided by some of the local ladies and was enjoyed by all.. Once again, we had to split into two groups one lunching and the other doing the tour and vice versa. There was plenty of time browse the Rose Maze and the souvenir shop before it was time to move on to our next experience. Sue was continually providing us with the history and places of interest of the regions we passed through. The next stop was the Myrtle Benn Flora & Fauna Sanctuary, a bit light on in the fauna department due the fact that they are mostly nocturnal animals and do not turn out in great numbers during the day just for tourists! Once we arrived at the sanctuary one of the active volunteers spoke to us about the history and told us what we could expect to see. The site was named after Mrs Myrtle Benn, who taught at the Boscabel School from 1931 until it closed in 1942, and then at the Kojonup School for another 30 years until her retirement. Her passion for nature, the environment and indigenous culture lead her to establish the Flora and Fauna sanctuary on the edge of town, with the help her students."
We had an hour there to roam the well signed paths and look at a diverse range of flora. All too quickly we were on our way to our afternoon tea stop at Lake Towerrinning. What a magnificent choice, scenic, tranquil, all the necessaries to relax with a cuppa, ready for the run home.
Thank you Peter and your crew for a great day.
Eleven keen Eaton Probus members boarded the Royal Gala Coach at 7 AM at the bus stop at Eaton Fair Shopping Centre for what turned out to be a top day of activities, good weather, good company and interesting things to see along the way. After picking up members of the Dardanup seniors at Dardanup, some others at the Bunbury Station and Boyanup, we continued on and collected our Hostess Sue. In true Royal Gala style we took the less popular roads to our morning tea stop in the Kojonup Historical Precinct. It was necessary to split into two groups to have a guided tour of the Military Barracks Museum as we had a full complement on the coach. Whilst the first group were in the museum the second half partook of some refreshments provided by the crew. We had time to have a wander around the precinct before the all aboard call was made to journey onto our next stop, Kodja Place for a guided tour and a look around the site including the Rose Maze. Our tour was conducted by well-known Indigenous Elder Jack Cox, who gets a lot of enjoyment from relating some stories from the old days and explaining some of the many artefacts on display. Our very nice lunch, which was topped off with a Drumstick ice-cream, was provided by some of the local ladies and was enjoyed by all.. Once again, we had to split into two groups one lunching and the other doing the tour and vice versa. There was plenty of time browse the Rose Maze and the souvenir shop before it was time to move on to our next experience. Sue was continually providing us with the history and places of interest of the regions we passed through. The next stop was the Myrtle Benn Flora & Fauna Sanctuary, a bit light on in the fauna department due the fact that they are mostly nocturnal animals and do not turn out in great numbers during the day just for tourists! Once we arrived at the sanctuary one of the active volunteers spoke to us about the history and told us what we could expect to see. The site was named after Mrs Myrtle Benn, who taught at the Boscabel School from 1931 until it closed in 1942, and then at the Kojonup School for another 30 years until her retirement. Her passion for nature, the environment and indigenous culture lead her to establish the Flora and Fauna sanctuary on the edge of town, with the help her students."
We had an hour there to roam the well signed paths and look at a diverse range of flora. All too quickly we were on our way to our afternoon tea stop at Lake Towerrinning. What a magnificent choice, scenic, tranquil, all the necessaries to relax with a cuppa, ready for the run home.
Thank you Peter and your crew for a great day.
President Dorothy inducted and welcomed our newest member,
Annetta Torrisi to The Probus Club Of Eaton. Annetta seen here receiving her membership package. |
Rose Wass turns 90
The club shares a birthday cake with Rose for her 90th birthday. Rose and her husband Don were founding members of the Probus Club of Eaton and are still attending meetings and outings. At 90, Rose can look back on her contribution to the club with pride and a sense of achievement to a club that is forever grateful for her contribution. |
Crooked Brook Wildflower and Picnic Lunch Outing.
The group were met with a nice cuppa upon arrival, then most wandered off to do a walk to suit their own ability or just catch up with friends.
We met Peter Robinson, the chairman of the Crooked Brook Forest community Group. He spoke to us about his involvement with group and some of the history The Crooked Brook Forest Community Group has worked tirelessly, in conjunction with Department of Parks and Wildlife since 1994 and continues to develop this forest area. The Group is proud to see the Forest being regularly used by senior citizens, school groups, people with disabilities and young families. This beautiful forest destination continues to be developed by the proud local community into a 'Forest for all People'. It provides access for elderly and disabled visitors as well as challenges for the energetic. Within the tranquility of this unique environment you can take in magnificent views, wildflowers and perhaps even see some of the wildlife. Unfortunately, we did not see any wildlife during our visit. Peter spoke to us about the micro bats that they have provided little homes for throughout the reserve. The flowers were a spectacle to behold, we timed it right. About 30 of us plus 6 visitors turned out to make the day another success story for Eaton Probus Club. Some enjoyed a BBQ, while others a picnic lunch of their choice. Thanks to all who helped clean and leave the BBQs as we found them.
Jean Windsor, Garden Group Coordinator.
Photo credits Jean Windsor, Dorothy Bail.
The group were met with a nice cuppa upon arrival, then most wandered off to do a walk to suit their own ability or just catch up with friends.
We met Peter Robinson, the chairman of the Crooked Brook Forest community Group. He spoke to us about his involvement with group and some of the history The Crooked Brook Forest Community Group has worked tirelessly, in conjunction with Department of Parks and Wildlife since 1994 and continues to develop this forest area. The Group is proud to see the Forest being regularly used by senior citizens, school groups, people with disabilities and young families. This beautiful forest destination continues to be developed by the proud local community into a 'Forest for all People'. It provides access for elderly and disabled visitors as well as challenges for the energetic. Within the tranquility of this unique environment you can take in magnificent views, wildflowers and perhaps even see some of the wildlife. Unfortunately, we did not see any wildlife during our visit. Peter spoke to us about the micro bats that they have provided little homes for throughout the reserve. The flowers were a spectacle to behold, we timed it right. About 30 of us plus 6 visitors turned out to make the day another success story for Eaton Probus Club. Some enjoyed a BBQ, while others a picnic lunch of their choice. Thanks to all who helped clean and leave the BBQs as we found them.
Jean Windsor, Garden Group Coordinator.
Photo credits Jean Windsor, Dorothy Bail.
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The Probus Club of Eaton's Caravan/Chalet Wildflower Journey to Mingenew
Fifteen members and friends from Eaton Probus Club enjoyed a trip to Mingenew in August. The weather was good although a sudden 31 deg was a bit of a shock after the very chilly mornings in Eaton. The wildflowers were wonderful! Carpets of everlastings or paper daisies, pink, yellow and white were almost everywhere we went. The group went out in small groups of two or three carloads each day and we all saw everything we hoped to see. We visited Coalseam Reserve, Depot Hill where we saw masses of Cowslip Orchids among many other flowers. Some adventurous folk climbed up Mingenew Hill for an expansive view of the surrounding farmland. On a day trip to Mullewa we visited the annual Wildflower show, a beautiful display of many species from the Mullewa area. Many hours would have been spent by the volunteers arranging the imaginative display. We then ventured on to Pindar where we easily followed the signposts to the Wreath flowers, growing both sides of a 500 m length of the road.. Well done to the shire for making the viewing so easy for the hundreds of vehicles passing through. In Mingenew we were hosted for dinner at the Sports club who opened especially for our group. We enjoyed a lovely meal and met a few of the locals joining in at the bar. The Mingenew Caravan park provided entertainment for all the visitors on the Friday night. Gravy beef rolls were available to purchase, a fire pit was roaring to keep us warm and a great singer from Geraldton entertained us all evening. It was a great opportunity to share time with other visitors to Mingenew....fun, fellowship and food!! Kerry Shardlow Photo credits Shani Sanderson
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Photo credits-: Kerry Shardlow, Sherron Spragg.
Photo Credits - Robyn Sabourne
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New Members. President Dorothy had the pleasure of inducting six new members to the fold at our August meeting. They were enthusiastically welcomed into the club by the current members! New members bring in new ideas and skills that are always welcome to ensure 'The Probus Club of Eaton Inc" stays on top of its game.
Our Garden Group visited Harvey to look at the tulips followed by lunch at Stirling Cottage.
There were 16 members who enjoyed the day.
We had a nice cosy lunch in the cottage that is a replica of the house that Governor James Stirling build in the early 18th century hence the name Stirling cottage.
We were pleased that the tulips were still blooming, a lovely show of Pink, Red, Orange all with hews of other shades in three well laid out garden beds.
We all walked around the immaculate garden area and some tasted the abundance of citrus fruit on the trees. We retired to cottage for lunch and hot drinks. The staff there had organized us on a long table inside , just as well as it was a bit of a cold day to eat outside.The staff took our orders by name and we payed at the end individually. I told her we were a honest bunch and nobody would shoot through. The cottage and grounds are well worth a visit .
Jean Windsor.
There were 16 members who enjoyed the day.
We had a nice cosy lunch in the cottage that is a replica of the house that Governor James Stirling build in the early 18th century hence the name Stirling cottage.
We were pleased that the tulips were still blooming, a lovely show of Pink, Red, Orange all with hews of other shades in three well laid out garden beds.
We all walked around the immaculate garden area and some tasted the abundance of citrus fruit on the trees. We retired to cottage for lunch and hot drinks. The staff there had organized us on a long table inside , just as well as it was a bit of a cold day to eat outside.The staff took our orders by name and we payed at the end individually. I told her we were a honest bunch and nobody would shoot through. The cottage and grounds are well worth a visit .
Jean Windsor.
The Probus Club of Eaton’s Christmas in July
Thirty-eight members, partners and members in waiting, gathered at the Eaton Community Centre for a Christmas in July lunch. It was a lunch with a difference and involved the help of many members, from the setting up, to preparing and serving the meal and most importantly, we also had those helpers for the clean up after the event.
Our President was the mover and shaker and coordinated what was to be a very satisfactory event for all who attended. The meal consisted of a vegetable soup and fresh roll followed by roast chicken, peas, roast potato, candy carrots, steamed squash and gravy. The roast chicken meal was supplied by Chicken Treat and delivered so all we had to do was plate it up and add the additional vegetables. Compliments to Chicken Treat for a very generous serve of chicken, peas, potatoes and gravy all cooked to perfection and delivered piping hot.
Between soup and main course, we had a little quiz that distracted the diners while the roast dinner was being plated up. After the meal had been consumed and while the kitchen volunteers were busy preparing the desserts, we had a game and a couple of jokes. The game was a humorous event and was enjoyed by all and certainly embraced the three F’s of Probus.
There was a choice of dessert, a homemade gluten free blueberry crumble or traditional plum pudding, both were served with custard and ice-cream.
President Dorothy and the committee did a wonderful job also the members and some nonmembers stepped up assist with serving, washing up and generally making light work of a big job
Not to forget the most important people, the diners, whose only job was eat heartily and have loads of Fellowship, Friendship and Fun!
A big thank you and pat on the back for those who attended and made this another Eaton Probus memorable event.
Thirty-eight members, partners and members in waiting, gathered at the Eaton Community Centre for a Christmas in July lunch. It was a lunch with a difference and involved the help of many members, from the setting up, to preparing and serving the meal and most importantly, we also had those helpers for the clean up after the event.
Our President was the mover and shaker and coordinated what was to be a very satisfactory event for all who attended. The meal consisted of a vegetable soup and fresh roll followed by roast chicken, peas, roast potato, candy carrots, steamed squash and gravy. The roast chicken meal was supplied by Chicken Treat and delivered so all we had to do was plate it up and add the additional vegetables. Compliments to Chicken Treat for a very generous serve of chicken, peas, potatoes and gravy all cooked to perfection and delivered piping hot.
Between soup and main course, we had a little quiz that distracted the diners while the roast dinner was being plated up. After the meal had been consumed and while the kitchen volunteers were busy preparing the desserts, we had a game and a couple of jokes. The game was a humorous event and was enjoyed by all and certainly embraced the three F’s of Probus.
There was a choice of dessert, a homemade gluten free blueberry crumble or traditional plum pudding, both were served with custard and ice-cream.
President Dorothy and the committee did a wonderful job also the members and some nonmembers stepped up assist with serving, washing up and generally making light work of a big job
Not to forget the most important people, the diners, whose only job was eat heartily and have loads of Fellowship, Friendship and Fun!
A big thank you and pat on the back for those who attended and made this another Eaton Probus memorable event.
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Our after meeting lunch was at our members, Max And Lesley Malcolm's home. Their enclosed patio area was bathed in warm sunlight that was certainly a welcome change from the cold overcast weather of the previous few days. Lesley and President Dorothy made soup and members provided a smorgasbord of sandwiches and other treats. Lesley and Max made us very welcome and comfortable in this pleasant setting for a great lunch. Sadly, in what appeared to be no time at all we said our goodbyes and took our leave back to our normal chores.
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Having been fed and watered it was time to depart the warmth of the Tavern and take a short ride to the Ha-Ve Cheese Factory. Here we were welcomed by Penny and Kelly who were keen to share their knowledge of the Cheese making process. Penny took us out to the viewing room and explained to us the various cheeses that were in the racks. She pointed out various pieces of equipment, in particular the stainless steel cement mixer used to churn butter. Very few of us realized that they manufactured butter as well as cheese. Penny provided us with a very interesting and informative insight into a very hands on family business. We adjourned back to the retail area where Kelly was standing by for a tasting of their popular cheeses. After some retail therapy it was time head out to our respective vehicles and head for home. We certainly made the most of a very miserable winters day.
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Fourteen of our members braved the stormy weather to meet at the Wokalup Tavern for breakfast as a change from our normal coffee morning get together. The weather was atrocious, the breakfast was superb and our guest speaker was excellent. We were fortunate to have Phil and Suzanne Hall speak to us about the cheese they produce.
The South West family is producing a premium French Pont L’Eveque cheese by milking one of Australia’s few herds of pure-bred Normande cows. The Hall's Family Dairy at Wokalup, is run by Philip and Suzanne Hall and their son Tavis, where they milk six Normande cows to produce the creamy, soft washed-rind cheese, which is hand made by a local cheesemaker at nearby Harvey. Pont L’Eveque is one of the oldest cheeses in Franc and was originally made by the Cistercian monks in the 12th century. The Halls have the only Normande cows in WA and the only herd milked for cheese in Australia. The family has bred Normande cattle, which originate from Normandy in France, for nearly two decades, starting their journey after Mr Hall spotted the breed in a dairy magazine back in the 1990s. Mr Hall was so intrigued by the breed that he spent several years trying to access the genetics to bring them back to Australia, and finally in 1999, the family started to breed its own herd. After six generations of careful breeding, the family finally had the high quality herd they were after, and started producing the cheese Halls Suzette just months ago. Mrs Hall said the Normandes produced less milk than other breeds, so were milked only twice a week to make cheese. Their milk was creamy, rich and had a more protein, which gave the cheese unique characteristics. . |
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GARDEN GROUP
Fourteen of our club members converged on Maggie Creese's home for morning tea and to enjoy a look at her extensive garden. It was a superb autumn morning, well suited for a very social get together. Maggie offered plants and cutting to anyone who wished to add to their gardens. The garden group outings are proving to be quite popular with our members. Many thanks to Jean for organising it. |
2019 OPEN DAY
Our open day was a very successful get together with visitors almost outnumbering members. After bare essentials for official business we had some fun and games before enjoying the lovely morning tea provided by our members.Those who were able participated in the games and enjoyed the challenges. Everyone took the opportunity to mingle and meet new people during morning tea. Tarryn was an excellent guest speaker, on a very topical subject of the moment, recycling and waste disposal . Our President and the committee work very hard to provide the four crucial ingredients to our Probus club, Fellowship, Friendship, Fun and above all Food, with a touch of Frivolity! |
"Goldfields and the Prospector Rail Journey" Villa Classic Holiday
Six members from The Probus Club of Eaton were joined by one from Bunbury Ladies Probus, two from the Probus Club of Bunbury, one from the Willeton Ladies Probus along with a non Probian. This merry band joined a Villa Carlotta organised tour of the Goldfields and the Prospector Rail Journey, making a total group of twenty two people. Apart from the two Perth based ladies, most of us set off from the Bunbury railway station thinking we were to travel by rail to Perth but unfortunately for reasons beyond our control we travelled by Trans WA coach to the Windsor Lodge for an over night stay. We were then picked up early the next morning to board the Prospector train and follow the route of CY O'Conner's pipeline on this golden adventure to discover the history and romance of one of the world’s greatest gold rushes.
Arriving in the afternoon we were transported to the Quality Inn Railway Motel for our first night. Our driver provided a short orientation tour of the city before we retired to our allocated rooms to rest and freshen up for dinner.
It was Anzac Day the next morning and we attended the dawn service that was literally across the road from the motel. After a hearty breakfast there was free time to explore before watching the Anzac parade that finished at the war memorial opposite the motel. We were invited to partake in a morning provided by the motel staff, tea,coffee scones and cream and that took care of lunch for most of us.
Then we were off to the Hannan's North Tourist Mine and Museum for glimpse into the gold mining history of Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
Day three was a longer day with a trip to Gwalia & Menzies.The morning tea stop was at Menzies, with the next stop being the ghost town of Gwalia that has been preserved and maintained with love and respect for it's heritage. We had sweeping views of the mine as we ate lunch which was served on the verandah of Hoover House. We had ample time to tour the historic precinct and the house commissioned by Herbert Hoover, before returning to Kalgoorlie. A detour was made at Koolkynie on the way to enjoy a beer or an ice cream at the Grand Hotel, sadly, no longer "grand".
A tour of the KCGM Super Pit started our fourth day. We were able to see firsthand the operations of Australia's largest gold mine with views of the mind milling operations and be in awe of the size of the dump trucks. We had time purchase lunch in town before visiting the Royal Flying Doctor Service Base which opened in 1937. Our Coach Captain took us off script to "Chunky's" wood working shop to view his craftsmanship, it was certainly an education and we met a real larger than life local character.
On our fifth and final day were were off to an early start with visit to Coolgardie taking in the town, stopping Jack Cairn's camp, Warden Finnerty's home and the Goldfields Exhibition Museum relive the heady days of yesteryear. All of this before our departure on the Prospector back to Perth, an over night stay for those from Bunbury and picked up again for transfer to the train station for our final leg home.
We were very well looked after the whole trip, our hostess Chris was excellent and Dan, our driver was a font of local knowledge. We certainly came away with a lot of interesting stories and facts too long to list here. Would certainly recommend the Tour wishing to take in the history of infamous Golden Mile.
Six members from The Probus Club of Eaton were joined by one from Bunbury Ladies Probus, two from the Probus Club of Bunbury, one from the Willeton Ladies Probus along with a non Probian. This merry band joined a Villa Carlotta organised tour of the Goldfields and the Prospector Rail Journey, making a total group of twenty two people. Apart from the two Perth based ladies, most of us set off from the Bunbury railway station thinking we were to travel by rail to Perth but unfortunately for reasons beyond our control we travelled by Trans WA coach to the Windsor Lodge for an over night stay. We were then picked up early the next morning to board the Prospector train and follow the route of CY O'Conner's pipeline on this golden adventure to discover the history and romance of one of the world’s greatest gold rushes.
Arriving in the afternoon we were transported to the Quality Inn Railway Motel for our first night. Our driver provided a short orientation tour of the city before we retired to our allocated rooms to rest and freshen up for dinner.
It was Anzac Day the next morning and we attended the dawn service that was literally across the road from the motel. After a hearty breakfast there was free time to explore before watching the Anzac parade that finished at the war memorial opposite the motel. We were invited to partake in a morning provided by the motel staff, tea,coffee scones and cream and that took care of lunch for most of us.
Then we were off to the Hannan's North Tourist Mine and Museum for glimpse into the gold mining history of Kalgoorlie-Boulder.
Day three was a longer day with a trip to Gwalia & Menzies.The morning tea stop was at Menzies, with the next stop being the ghost town of Gwalia that has been preserved and maintained with love and respect for it's heritage. We had sweeping views of the mine as we ate lunch which was served on the verandah of Hoover House. We had ample time to tour the historic precinct and the house commissioned by Herbert Hoover, before returning to Kalgoorlie. A detour was made at Koolkynie on the way to enjoy a beer or an ice cream at the Grand Hotel, sadly, no longer "grand".
A tour of the KCGM Super Pit started our fourth day. We were able to see firsthand the operations of Australia's largest gold mine with views of the mind milling operations and be in awe of the size of the dump trucks. We had time purchase lunch in town before visiting the Royal Flying Doctor Service Base which opened in 1937. Our Coach Captain took us off script to "Chunky's" wood working shop to view his craftsmanship, it was certainly an education and we met a real larger than life local character.
On our fifth and final day were were off to an early start with visit to Coolgardie taking in the town, stopping Jack Cairn's camp, Warden Finnerty's home and the Goldfields Exhibition Museum relive the heady days of yesteryear. All of this before our departure on the Prospector back to Perth, an over night stay for those from Bunbury and picked up again for transfer to the train station for our final leg home.
We were very well looked after the whole trip, our hostess Chris was excellent and Dan, our driver was a font of local knowledge. We certainly came away with a lot of interesting stories and facts too long to list here. Would certainly recommend the Tour wishing to take in the history of infamous Golden Mile.
The Garden Club’s Manjimup Adventure!
The trip Manjimup was well attended, a popular choice as 24 Probians departed the Pratt Road pickup point to visit Glenda & Don Faulk’s garden in Manjimup. Don & Glenda welcomed us with a cuppa and the members provided a range of tasty slices and biscuits. Morning tea was followed by a guided tour of the immaculate and beautiful garden with its diverse range of plants and colour that impressed even the few non gardeners in the group. Don & Glenda had some potted plants and cuttings for those that wished to add to their own gardens.
Don presented us with the history of the land holding and the resulting journey it had taken to transform it to what we were seeing on the day, a very interesting and informative story with lots of questions throughout.
In no time at all it was lunch time, we had all brought a picnic lunch with tea and coffee once again provided by Don & Glenda. Lunch was nicely rounded off with a fruit platter compliments of Glenda.
It was time to board the coach for a quick circuit of Manjimup, a lot of big new things happening around the town and certainly worth another visit later in the year when all will be completed. Then on to Fonti’s Nut Farm, a 160-acre farm producing, avocados, feijoas, chestnuts, wall nuts, macadamias not to mention various varieties of apples and pears. I may have missed out some of the produce, but I hope I covered the main ones. During the season you are able pay and pick your own at very reasonable prices.
The highlight would have to be tractor/trailer ride around the property with Tony, relating the history of the farm and sampling the wares along the way. There is something to be said for fruit off the tree into one’s mouth!
There was plenty of time to spend in the shop with a wide range of produce available. The coach let out a real groan by the time all piled back onboard with their respective purchases! Time to head for home after a wonderful day of friendship, fellowship & fun not to mention the healthy food.
Special thanks to Jean for making it all happen and we look forward to your next surprise.
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Coffee Club Morning with a difference.
Monday the 8th April was another great morning for our members, meeting at the new Dolphin Discovery Centre for our monthly Coffee Club. What a turnout, 36 including visitors for morning tea. Following morning tea, we investigated the new exhibition area and the displays, and I think I could say we were all impressed with new building and facilities overall. I think Bunbury and the greater Bunbury region can be justifiably proud of the revamp of the whole Koombana Bay foreshore. It is very encouraging for our committee to see these events so well patronized. |
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AWARDS The proud recipients of their 25 year service certificates
All three have been outstanding members of the club over the years and are worthy of the recognition of their contribution. |
Mike Reeve recieved his belated 25 year certificate that was due last year! Mike has been a very loyal active member of the club. At 90 years young Mike continues to be a contributer to many aspects of the club.
Don Wass received his 25 year service pin to go with the certificate he received at the clubs 25th birthday three yeas ago, Don is a very strong contributor and a founding member of the club
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COFFEE CLUB Our coffee club meet for February was a little different when 18 members turned up to enjoy a scrumptious morning tea at Robyn and Ken Sabourne's home. What a great social event it was and it was very much appreciated by all. Many thanks to Robyn and Ken.
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CLUB PICNIC On the last day of January 18 members gathered on the Australind Foreshore for a BBQ lunch. At a wonderful shady spot under the trees we set up our chairs and ready to enjoy lunch. Bob and Janet brought a gazebo that they set up close to BBQ providing shade for the guys doing the cooking. Again another very enjoyable way for members to socialize outside our meeting date.
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SUNDOWNER A great start to the New Year overlooking the Estuary at Australind, with a very social Sundowner at Kerry's Home. This venue must of had appeal because Kerry was inundated with over 30 plus members attending! A great evening was had by all, with much socializing while taking in the sunset over the Estuary.
2018 The Probus Club of Eaton Christmas Party
Thirty-six members and four visitors from Bunbury Ladies and South Bunbury boarded a coach for a short journey to Brunswick Tavern, our venue for lunch. The proprietor, Clint, opened the dining room especially for our group he is normally not open on a Monday for meals. What a superb venue, a room to ourselves, nice and quiet and an excellent well-cooked Christmas lunch.
Our members and visitors soon settled in, and out went the quiet bit, in fine Probus tradition! With a couple of quizzes and a few jokes , the stage was set for a great time.
The venue was great, food excellent as was the company. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Brunswick Tavern to anyone.
Thirty-six members and four visitors from Bunbury Ladies and South Bunbury boarded a coach for a short journey to Brunswick Tavern, our venue for lunch. The proprietor, Clint, opened the dining room especially for our group he is normally not open on a Monday for meals. What a superb venue, a room to ourselves, nice and quiet and an excellent well-cooked Christmas lunch.
Our members and visitors soon settled in, and out went the quiet bit, in fine Probus tradition! With a couple of quizzes and a few jokes , the stage was set for a great time.
The venue was great, food excellent as was the company. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Brunswick Tavern to anyone.
November Sausage Sizzle.
After our November meeting, lunch was the planned sausage sizzle at the BBQ facility at the Colin Spragg playground on the Eaton foreshore. The reason for the event was a thank you to our members for their contribution and help towards the very successful Southwest Get Together held in October. The event was well attended and was great fun even the though the weather was ordinary with a very cold wind.
After our November meeting, lunch was the planned sausage sizzle at the BBQ facility at the Colin Spragg playground on the Eaton foreshore. The reason for the event was a thank you to our members for their contribution and help towards the very successful Southwest Get Together held in October. The event was well attended and was great fun even the though the weather was ordinary with a very cold wind.
2018 Eaton Probus Members Melbourne Cup lunch.
20 Eaton Probus members and 5 guests including members from 2 other clubs, arrived at the Bail's in anticipation of the event that stops the nation. The guests were each greeted with a champagne cocktail on arrival to set the mood for the activities to follow.
It was quite a dress up affair and the ladies looked very elegant with an interesting array of hats and fascinators. They were matched by the men looking very smart in their best attire and hats, typical of Melbourne Cup standard.
The weather was less than ideal after starting off quite bright, so when it clouded over and a cold wind picked up there was a mad dash to move to the shelter of the veranda and the heater. By the time the big race was all over we were able put the luncheon spread on a table outside again. A delicious array of assorted food had been provided by those attending and some of the crowd even braved the cool and sat outside again to eat their lunch.
.President Dorothy had some activities planned for the afternoon, the highlight being a "Mystery Race". This was the running of a black and white 1959 Melbourne cup with 26 runners and was won by MacDougal. The rider had only picked up the ride at the last minute as it had been declined by another preferred jockey. The race was worth the princely sum of $6000, a far cry from the 2018 stakes.
Ian Farrell was our on site bookie and he looked after the sweeps. Interestingly he draw the winner for the 2018 Melbourne cup and his wife Paula won the 1959 cup rerun sweep. however it was all was above board and out in the open as our bookie came highly recommended for his honesty!
Later there were some keen starters and fierce completion for the quoits and horse shoe tossing. Despite it being harder than it looked, Lesley M was the clear winner with Shani S in second place. although she did have to share that placing with Ken S and Max M.
Jan H did not have a win in the sweeps but was determined to show her ability by jumping astride one of the props and cantering across the turf.
The day finished with some of the ladies already planning their hat for next year's event.
20 Eaton Probus members and 5 guests including members from 2 other clubs, arrived at the Bail's in anticipation of the event that stops the nation. The guests were each greeted with a champagne cocktail on arrival to set the mood for the activities to follow.
It was quite a dress up affair and the ladies looked very elegant with an interesting array of hats and fascinators. They were matched by the men looking very smart in their best attire and hats, typical of Melbourne Cup standard.
The weather was less than ideal after starting off quite bright, so when it clouded over and a cold wind picked up there was a mad dash to move to the shelter of the veranda and the heater. By the time the big race was all over we were able put the luncheon spread on a table outside again. A delicious array of assorted food had been provided by those attending and some of the crowd even braved the cool and sat outside again to eat their lunch.
.President Dorothy had some activities planned for the afternoon, the highlight being a "Mystery Race". This was the running of a black and white 1959 Melbourne cup with 26 runners and was won by MacDougal. The rider had only picked up the ride at the last minute as it had been declined by another preferred jockey. The race was worth the princely sum of $6000, a far cry from the 2018 stakes.
Ian Farrell was our on site bookie and he looked after the sweeps. Interestingly he draw the winner for the 2018 Melbourne cup and his wife Paula won the 1959 cup rerun sweep. however it was all was above board and out in the open as our bookie came highly recommended for his honesty!
Later there were some keen starters and fierce completion for the quoits and horse shoe tossing. Despite it being harder than it looked, Lesley M was the clear winner with Shani S in second place. although she did have to share that placing with Ken S and Max M.
Jan H did not have a win in the sweeps but was determined to show her ability by jumping astride one of the props and cantering across the turf.
The day finished with some of the ladies already planning their hat for next year's event.
A selection of slides from the afternoon.
2018 South West Get Together Hosted by The Probus Club of Eaton Inc.
14 Probus Clubs attended the 2018 South West Get Together held at the Eaton Sports Club on October 18th. It was an early start for clubs needing to travel quite a distance to attend. The delegates arrived to a nicely presented, bright and airy venue and were signed in. Our ladies at the registration table were kept busy with a constant stream of arrivals. The noise and chatter level increased as delegates caught up with Probian friends and fellow, browsed the raffle prizes, bought tickets and took some time to speak to and acknowledge our sponsors. Mandy Cooper representing Villa Carlotta Travel, Syd Cabban representing Telstra and Andrew Marshall representing RSM were able be present but unfortunately the other sponsor Mandurah Mobility, was not able to be with us.
We had a late start while everyone waited for their first cuppa, due to an oversight with the urn not being turned on.
Once at their respective tables most people were delighted to find the potted succulent plants that had been lovingly nurtured by Allan and Maureen Worthington for months to be ready for the day. It was a big commitment by Allan and Maureen and was a gesture that was well received and appreciated.
After the official welcome by President Dorothy the days activities commenced with a lively game that was an excellent icebreaker to put everyone in the spirit of things to come. After the next game we realized that it was already morning tea time with another opportunity to continue the Friendship theme.
Following morning tea we were treated to a medley of songs by the Sing Australia Bunbury group. Three of the group being our own Eaton members. We appreciated the effort the group undertook to attend as it an inconvenient time for the a lot of them.
While the choir was packing up and leaving we extended the Probus fellowship theme by moving one person from each table to another table to meet and get to know more about people they may not have met otherwise before returning to their original table to share what they had learnt.
Kerry Shardlow from The Probus Club of Eaton acknowledged our club's three nonagenarians present on the day and also those from other clubs.
There was more fun games and socializing before lunch. The lucky dip sold out very quickly and raffles were drawn before Syd took control of the microphone and with Mandy as his sidekick they announced the winners of the Villa prizes and the Telstra prize of a Google Mini Home.
John Geohegan from the Combined Mandurah Club reminded everyone that the SWGT 2019 is being hosted by their club and encouraged us all to attend. They are in the very early stages of the planning and we will be notified as they progress as to what we can expect on the day.
The Attendance Trophy was initiated last year and was won this year by the Manjimup Probus Club. Their President, Ian Jones came forward to accept the trophy on behalf of their club.
After a quick game of Heads and Tails it was time for some more entertainment.
Our own Ian Farrell with Robbie Murie on guitar sang a comical version of "Side by side" before continuing the humour with "The Remember Song" These were both well received if the laughter level was what they were being judged by.
There were two more games, splat the rat and balancing a very light ball on two pool noodle both games creating much merriment. Time was getting away from us so we had to wrap it allowing the travelers time to start their journey home.
The feed back has been very positive but as with most events hindsight is good tool for improvement next time.
Thank you one and all for making the Probus motto "Fellowship, Friendship and Fun" to a new level.
14 Probus Clubs attended the 2018 South West Get Together held at the Eaton Sports Club on October 18th. It was an early start for clubs needing to travel quite a distance to attend. The delegates arrived to a nicely presented, bright and airy venue and were signed in. Our ladies at the registration table were kept busy with a constant stream of arrivals. The noise and chatter level increased as delegates caught up with Probian friends and fellow, browsed the raffle prizes, bought tickets and took some time to speak to and acknowledge our sponsors. Mandy Cooper representing Villa Carlotta Travel, Syd Cabban representing Telstra and Andrew Marshall representing RSM were able be present but unfortunately the other sponsor Mandurah Mobility, was not able to be with us.
We had a late start while everyone waited for their first cuppa, due to an oversight with the urn not being turned on.
Once at their respective tables most people were delighted to find the potted succulent plants that had been lovingly nurtured by Allan and Maureen Worthington for months to be ready for the day. It was a big commitment by Allan and Maureen and was a gesture that was well received and appreciated.
After the official welcome by President Dorothy the days activities commenced with a lively game that was an excellent icebreaker to put everyone in the spirit of things to come. After the next game we realized that it was already morning tea time with another opportunity to continue the Friendship theme.
Following morning tea we were treated to a medley of songs by the Sing Australia Bunbury group. Three of the group being our own Eaton members. We appreciated the effort the group undertook to attend as it an inconvenient time for the a lot of them.
While the choir was packing up and leaving we extended the Probus fellowship theme by moving one person from each table to another table to meet and get to know more about people they may not have met otherwise before returning to their original table to share what they had learnt.
Kerry Shardlow from The Probus Club of Eaton acknowledged our club's three nonagenarians present on the day and also those from other clubs.
There was more fun games and socializing before lunch. The lucky dip sold out very quickly and raffles were drawn before Syd took control of the microphone and with Mandy as his sidekick they announced the winners of the Villa prizes and the Telstra prize of a Google Mini Home.
John Geohegan from the Combined Mandurah Club reminded everyone that the SWGT 2019 is being hosted by their club and encouraged us all to attend. They are in the very early stages of the planning and we will be notified as they progress as to what we can expect on the day.
The Attendance Trophy was initiated last year and was won this year by the Manjimup Probus Club. Their President, Ian Jones came forward to accept the trophy on behalf of their club.
After a quick game of Heads and Tails it was time for some more entertainment.
Our own Ian Farrell with Robbie Murie on guitar sang a comical version of "Side by side" before continuing the humour with "The Remember Song" These were both well received if the laughter level was what they were being judged by.
There were two more games, splat the rat and balancing a very light ball on two pool noodle both games creating much merriment. Time was getting away from us so we had to wrap it allowing the travelers time to start their journey home.
The feed back has been very positive but as with most events hindsight is good tool for improvement next time.
Thank you one and all for making the Probus motto "Fellowship, Friendship and Fun" to a new level.
President Dorothy welcomed our new member at the August meeting, John Owen Tucker Formally from the Melton Probus Inc, a Melbourne men's Probus. We are pleased he chose us to be his club for his new location.
We are looking forward to a long association with John.
We are looking forward to a long association with John.
Mike Reeve, one of our stalwart members turned 90 on the 27th August. Mike is an active member of our club and has been so for many, many years. Mike's comment as he cut his cake on the day of our meeting was " feels a little strange to become breathing antique". We all wished him well and hope to see at many more meetings.
Open Day 2018
Our guests and visitors from near and far braved a wet, blustery day to join us on our Open Day.
The Guest Speaker/ Entertainer for the month was Glen Perks with his fun and amusing marionette performance.
Following the meeting many members and visitors continued the Fellowship and enjoyed lunch together at the Lord Forrest.
GARDEN GROUP OUTING JUNE
Despite it being a wet blustery day for the planned outing to Harvey, thirteen of our club members car pooled to attend the outing.
We met at Stirling Cottage, a great place to stay warm while we chatted and consumed some delicious cakes and interesting drinks, eg hazelnut lattes for morning tea
It was soon time to don our coats and hats again and gather outside to hear the resident gardener Jono talk about his work in the surrounding gardens and answer our many general gardening questions.
A vote was taken to continue with the original plan to have lunch at Harvey Dam and surprisingly there was nobody else wanting to use the gazebo to have a picnic that day.
With coats and blankets keeping us cosy no-one seemed in a hurry to leave. And why would we, the conversations were lively, food was shared and it was a nice finish to another lovely outing.
GARDEN GROUP OUTING TO GOLDEN VALLEY TREE PARK
The most recent Garden Group outing suggested by Jean was to the Golden Valley Tree Park near Balingup to see the magnificent autumn colours on the variety of deciduous trees in the park.
Ian had collected the bus ready to meet everyone at Eaton Foreshore and it a happy group that joined him as we travelled to Donnybrook for a coffee stop before continuing to Golden Valley. Then it was time to wander around, enjoy the views and soak up the sun before we gathered for a picnic lunch in the gazebo. Sherron had made a delicious lemon cake which was shared while we sang happy birthday to her.
After going back to Balingup there was time to wander around the shops and the Old Cheese Factory before it was time to go home.
THE ALBANY ADVENTURE Eighteen happy travellers set off with Gannaway’s Tours for the four day trip to Albany. After an early start we travelled to Balingup, enjoying the glorious autumn foliage on the trees along the way. Working through the Probus “F”words we had already been having Fellowship and Friendship, now we were starting on the Food, enjoying a delicious morning tea of scones and cream and muffins. Our SW Probus Rep Don Faulks had been out to collect a box of assorted apples for us so a brief stop was made in Manjimup to meet Don & Glenda. The lovely crisp apples were really appreciated as they were shared out during the trip. The former mill town of Quinninup was our stop to have a picnic lunch before setting off for Walpole to join Garry Muir’s WOW boat cruise. Garry was so entertaining that the afternoon was over in a flash and it was nonstop through to Albany to the Ace Motel, our comfortable accommodation for the next three nights. Nobody slept in next morning so we had an earlier start to explore the Vancouver Peninsular. The first stop was the wind farm where we had plenty of time to look around and follow the tracks to the lookouts on the rugged coast. Next it was off to the Gap and the new development there. The new lookout meant we peered right down into the Gap before seeing the Natural Bridge. When we arrived at Albany’s Historic Whaling Station we drove straight to the new development of Discovery Bay where we walked the boardwalks while Les Bail explained the concept, planning and ultimate successful completion of the area. Unfortunately, between shelters we experienced a sudden shower of rain so some of our group were taken back to the motel to change into dry clothes. Meanwhile there was the wildlife park, the gift shop and surroundings to occupy those remaining at Whaleworld. Lunch was enjoyed at the Whalers Cafe before we entered Whaleworld and in small groups we were given behind the scenes tours by Les as he told of the changes made during his 16 years as Manager. A scenic tour of Albany’s main street with a stop to look at St John’s Church started Day 3. Then it was off to the National Anzac Centre with plenty of time to explore it all before we drove to the ANZAC Memorial on Mt Clarence and then to Eyre Park at Middleton Beach to have a picnic lunch. A few of our group were dropped off in town to shop while the rest of us returned to the motel to rest and be ready for guest speaker Ed Khoury. Garry Wellstead, owner of Southcoast Diving Supplies arranged for Ed and his wife Sharon to come from Perth to tell us about their involvement in producing and installing shark barriers. Day 4, sadly time to go home. But not before we were driven around Darrell Radcliffe’s chainsaw art. We were amazed by his creations which are scattered around the bushland setting. Then it was off for a final morning tea of scones & cream at Mt Romance. The story of sandalwood and the extraction of the oil were explained to us before we had a final chance for some retail therapy before journeying on to Kodja Place in Kojonup. Most of us wandered around the Rose Maze before it was our last Friendship, Fellowship, Fun & Food opportunity before arriving home.
Trip to Margaret River "Trust the Cook and the Gardener" experience.A great day of fun was enjoyed by all who went on the bus trip to Margaret River for the Trust the Cook and the Gardener lunch experience at the Fair Harvest Peraculture Farm on the 8th February. One of our members drove with confidence and skill and we enjoyed a rollicking sing a long on the way down. The permaculture farm was very interesting to look around, with loads of fruit and vegetables thriving in their beds or netted enclosures, with geese and ducklings to ooh and aah over. Our lunch was.....very interesting. When we first heard what our choices were - we thought "Oh dear !!!!" But actually it turned out to be very tasty and healthy with a menu using seasonal produce straight from the gardens; followed by a choice of (again very healthy) desserts. After this adventure into a healthy meal the general consensus was that we needed something else so...... off we went to Millers Ice Creamery followed by an even more decadent trip to the chocolate factory.
Christmas 2017 at the Rose HotelOur newest members. We had five people joining us in September and we look forward to having them with us. President Dorothy Bail welcomed the Wagstaff's, the Smith's and Shani.
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Evening BBQ with a "White" theme.On the 25th January our Outings Officers opened their home to members for an evening BBQ. From the photos you can tell a good time was had by all.
Our wonderful trip to the Ferguson Valley......
A Night at the Epicure RestaurantMore Coffee Club News
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Our Coffee Club meets 2nd Monday of the month at The Coffee Club Eaton Fair from 9:30 am. Come join us for Fun Fellowship and Friendship
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2016 Bunbury Christmas Lights Tour
Tour of Windy Harbour
We had a day tour to Windy Harbour (which was not windy on the day) and saw some of our unique wildflowers.
Our Banner!!!!
Morning Tea at BRAG
Group Photo 2016
2015 Melbourne Cup
June 2015 Mystery Trip - Jarradale
Estuary Morning Tea Cruise March 2015Our 2014 OPen Day |
Picnic Ridley Park
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Mystery Tour January 2015 |
South West Get Together
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Christmas 2014 |
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Eaton Bowling Club |
Araulen Tulip Festival |
Busselton Jetty |
Nannup Garden Festival |
Dolphin Discovery Centre |
Newspaper House Perth |