AN organisation originally formed as a social outlet for women leading busy lives has transformed into a tight-knit community asset which has created lasting friendship.
The Mount Gambier Ladies Probus Club is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, recently hosting a major gathering to mark the occasion.
First charted by Lenora Bishop in 1989, foundation member Margaret Ashdown said she has enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships since day one.
“We had been doing the same thing for our whole life and this was our time to have a break and socialise with friends,” she said.
“I spoke to somebody who thought it was boring because we did not do anything.
“That is why we are there, because we have been busy.”
Welcoming 100 members to its first meeting, the club is involved in a range of activities including walking, travelling, dinner, craft, morning teas, Book Club and tai chi.
Ms Ashdown said the club had evolved with societal changes over the years.
“We would have been grandmothers when we (foundation members) first joined,” she said.
“Nowadays all the grandmothers are looking after grandchildren.
“It is a bit different today and I think all the other Rotary and community clubs are going through the same issues.”
Current president and foundation member Margaret Hunt said the club was one of the ways she has created lifelong memories.
“When I lived in Kalangadoo I was located equal distance between Millicent and Mount Gambier,” she said.
“I enjoyed Probus so much that I was part of both the Millicent and Mount Gambier clubs.
“We would love to see some younger people join the club and even though they do not think they have time, they do.”
Fellow foundation member Glenyse Nott said she would also like to see some younger people come through the doors.
“We want them to keep the club going and form the same friendships as we did,” she said.
“I do not join in with a lot of things like I did in the beginning as I have found other hobbies.
“Although, for those who do not have any hobbies and are looking to meet new people this is the best place to start.”
Ms Nott said she was still amazed at who she meets at each club event.
“I still enjoy the once a month get together and love hearing from guest speakers,” she said.
“You go along and see people you have not seen for years.
“It is amazing in this town how you may not see people for weeks on end.”
Ms Hunt said new members were always welcome, with meetings held on the first Tuesday of the month at the Mount Gambier Community RSL from 10am.
For more information phone 8726 2337.
