General News
7 March, 2026
Birthday greetings
THE Probus Club of Innisfail has marked its 41st birthday – nine years behind the established of the movement 50 years ago.
The Innisfail club was formed in 1985 and 43 members attended the 41st birthday last month with a lunch at the Innisfail RSL. It is a combined club with a current membership of 88 members.
Club president Col Ritchie said it was a wonderful event enjoyed by all.
He said a yearly planner was provided to all members in April each year detailing committee members contacts, outings and general meeting dates.
“Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of every month at 9am at the Innisfail RSL Club where dine-outs, trips and activities are organised,” Mr Ritchie said.
“Meetings include monthly newsletters, members welfare, birthdays, guest speakers, morning teas, raffles and humorous stories.
“If you’re feeling lonely and need social company come and join us, you will be made most welcome.”
Probus Clubs have been established in Australia for 50 years (1976). They are a not-for-profit network of over 90,000 retirees in more than 1300 individual clubs across all Australian states and territories, all of which are managed by volunteers.
Probus Clubs, by virtue of their constitutions, are non-political and non-sectarian.
Mr Richie said the basic purpose of a Probus Club was to provide regular gatherings for retirees and semi-retirees, in local communities, who appreciate and value opportunities to meet with others with similar interests.
“The benefits of social connections, particularly in the mature generation, are well documented,” he said.
“These include an improvement in both mental and physical health, as well as reducing the risk of anxiety, depression and loneliness.”
Mr Ritchie said this year Probus was reaching a significant milestone, marking 50 years of helping retirees stay engaged and connected.
“In fact, the very first Probus Club in Australia, (being the Probus Club of Hunters Hill and District in NSW) was established on 3 February 1976, and continues to provide the essential connections that seniors need in later life,” he said.
“October every year is designated as Probus month and individual clubs celebrate with a variety of activities.”
For further information contact secretary Marianne on 0429 653 775 or email probusclubofinnisfail@gmail.com
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