PRESIDENTS REPORT SEPTEMBER 2026
Welcome to our February 2026 Monthly Meeting – and a special welcome to any visitors.
It is indeed with regret that I must report the passing of our long-serving and loyal member Geoff Rassack on the 8th February. Geoff joined our Club in April 2003 and he and his dear wife Jan seldom missed our meetings. Of late, Geoff was unable to join us due to being bed-ridden. A “Celebration of his Life” was held on Monday at the RSL War Vet Village at Narrabeen when Cindy and I were able to represent our club. Our sincere condolences are extended to Jan and family.
On a lighter note, I am pleased to advise that I have been invited by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC – Governor of New South Wales to attend an Afternoon Formal Tea on Monday 23rd March 2026 at Government House in Sydney to celebrate the Golden 50th Anniversary of Probus in Australia. I am invited in my capacity as President of our Probus Club and where I shall join many other Presidents of all the New South Wales Probus clubs.
Our Craft Group run by Paula Diamond continues to strengthen in numbers. But as Paula says – “There is still plenty of room around the table.” Their next get-together is on Wednesday 4th March.
The newly formed Outings Group which combines Walks, Lunches, $2.50 Club and indeed any other groups which are in the making, needs an “Outings Coordinator” on the Committee. I am very pleased to note that Helen Reinthal has nominated for this new committee position at the forthcoming AGM. Thank you Helen.
Our recent annual BBQ held on Thursday 22nd January at Jamieson Park on Narrabeen Lake in perfect weather was a great success attended by some 40 members and partners. This is the largest number in recent years and proving to be one of our main functions. Sincere thanks to Keith Penfold, Ken Fletcher, Rob Beaton and their merry band of helpers. A very hungry Kookaburra also attacked Tom Keating by swooping down (just missing my head) and snatching a golden-brown sausage out of his hand !!!!
Our next function is a luncheon at the Belrose Hotel on Thursday 26th February being organised by Gerard De Jong. These luncheons are enjoyable and if you have not previously attended, I urge you to come along and enjoy yourselves.
Today we shall close nominations for the incoming committee. This is YOUR club and has been for 35 successful years so please consider nominating. Also, we still need new members so please bring a relative, friend or neighbour to our next meeting. The younger they are, the better.
Cliff Ventris President
