I recently attended a Probus Hub meeting where the Presidents of the Bayside Clubs discuss issues to help build the Probus Clubs in the Bayside area. Two years ago there were 10 Bayside Clubs, now there are seven. It got me asking myself why do people join Probus and what makes a strong Club.
I am a little ashamed to say that Christine and I joined the Club because Probus had by far the best travel insurance scheme in Australia. Unfortunately it was too good to continue. In asking other members why they joined there were many reasons, many like me joined for the travel insurance. I must say that I was made feel very welcome at the start as Pat Farrelly bailed me up and told me I WAS going to be the next Treasurer. This was before we were even inducted.
An easier question is “What makes a strong Club”. We currently get a 70-75% member attendance rate at each meeting which is the hallmark of a strong Club.
Last week it was mentioned by the Presidents of two local clubs that our Club was so fortunate to have such a strong committee. That was good to hear but it misses out on all the other people who make our Club function well. I counted up around 25 people (including 11 Committee Members) who make this Club function well and make it strong. Many of these people work in the background without any recognition.
I wish to take this opportunity to thank them for their work, and encourage you all to thank them when you see them.
Michael Simmons President October 2024
