New lease on life for social club

A VITAL group for older people which has operated for more than 40 years will remain operational after disbanding as a Probus Club.

The Lennox Head Probus Club has dissolved with its members opting to reform as an independent social club under its own banner.

The group has struggled to fill mandatory executive positions in recent years and will no longer operate as a Probus club after a vote at its Annual General Meeting.

Rising costs for bus hire and trips away also contributed to the decision.

Members will still meet at the bowling club with trips to the cinema and other outings to continue.

Probus clubs are not-for-profit and non-fundraising groups for men and women which operate to keep retirees physically, mentally, and socially active.

It was a bitter-sweet moment for outgoing president June Zentveld, her late husband John started the group in 1982.

“It’s a bit ironic that I’m closing the club he started,” June said.

“When my husband started clubs in the region, he was told a group for men and women would never work.”

“We used to have more than 100 members and a waiting list; it was that popular.

“Now the demographic of Lennox Head has changed and a lot of people moving here are young families

“We’re only getting older and some of our members have moved away to other areas.

“Visibility is important, it would be great if council and other groups could help with our promotion.”

The group has already celebrated a major milestone with foundation member Enid Steele celebrating her 100th birthday when the group met after its AGM.

She plans on staying with the group which she is a life member of.

Enid grew up on the Northern Rivers and spent most of her working life as nurse at Ballina.

“This is a very special group and it’s important to keep up with social activities as we get older,” she said.

“I’m glad we were together for the celebration.”