Peter was installed as president, his third time in the role, at the club’s AGM at Yarrawonga Mulwala Golf Resort on March 9.
Responding to his instalment Peter Proussalis said; “thank you for accepting me as your President 2022-2023”.
“I acknowledge the passing of all the presidents who have served in this club since the formation of Men’s Probus Club on the 8th of November 1989 with the first president John Grant (1989-1990) who laid the foundation. And to all the members who served before us and made this club what it is now.
“I acknowledge immediate past president Alistair Forge, John Greasley – secretary, Joe Cilia - treasurer and all the fellow committee members Rob Devanny and Norm Welsh for a job well done. Thanks for the goals achieved bringing the club together over the past year, and the fellowship we all enjoyed.
“Thank you, fellow members, for the honour to be your president and to wear this President’s Collar. I will do my best over the next year to bring you fun and entertainment into the club. Our committee will be planning to have some great day outings.
“I have learned over a period of time, that lunch is the important meal of the day, we will find enjoyable places not too far out from our town for lunch and more important in getting together for a chat as it is so important for our wellbeing. But if you are not well enough to come along, we will always be in contact.
“It is important as we age, our needs change, please tell us what you want. And we will be happy to follow it through.
“The other very important factor, for the club is new members, so speak to your friends and bring them to our club as guests, don’t just leave it to the committee, get involved and be part of the team as we move forward.
President Peter introduced his new committee as follows: Stuart Nixon - Vice President - Guests Speakers; John Greasley – Secretary; Joe Cilia – Treasurer; Norm Welsh - Helping Stuart with Guest Speakers- event money collecting; Rob Devanny BBQ – (Bruce Pitcher – help BBQ but not on the Committee); Peter Proussalis President – Almoner, Welfare Officer, Newsletter – Members Certificates etc.
Outgoing President Report
Outgoing president Alistair Forge presented the following report at the AGM March 9, 2022.
“We are now well into 2022 and are still being ruled by covid. 2021-22 has been a year of disruption but we have been able to get through with not a great deal of loss of meetings.
“As a committee we have tried to get guest speakers each month to try and keep the meetings interesting.
“We have had speakers from members of our club and I thank members like Geoff Leake, Norm Welsh and Peter Proussalis who gave very interesting addresses.
“A variety of speakers like James Willett world and Olympic champion trap shooter. Who could forget Bill Yelden and his yarns about AFL and country football umpiring (followed by member Clive Macaulay and his equally enjoyable five minute talk on umpiring).
“We had a talk on the MHA availability of help for the older age group by Michael Hogan and an inspiring address by Fred Douglas on trekking to the base camp of Everest.
“At our birthday meeting in November we recognised those members who had achieved twenty years or more as members of the club and were given a certificate.
“Five-minute speakers throughout the year each meeting have been well received. It is always of interest to hear the different life stories.
“Perhaps the most affected area has been the monthly BBQ/Walks. Due to covid, weather and lack of interest these have been hard to organise. Many of the months have been lunch at Burke’s Hotel. The BBQ/Walks are an integral part of the camaraderie of the club and more effort is needed in finding suitable venues.
“During the year the barbecue trailer was sold mainly because there are many places with electric BBQ’s available. Maybe with more freedom from covid we can get these days going again.
“Unfortunately, during the year we have lost a few of our members. Let us remember Denis Dowling, Rod Ryan, Adrian Smith, Des Baker, John Pollard and life member Bruce Neal. Also, just this month we lost John Shelton. We welcomed new members Don McPhee and Andrew Spilva.
“Thank you for having the faith in me as your president this past year. I would like to thank Secretary John Greasley for keeping the books in order, Treasurer Joe Cilia for keeping us in the black and the support from the committee of Stuart Nixon, Norm Welsh and Rob Devanny.
“Special thanks to Vice President Peter Proussalis and welfare officer/almoner, he has done an excellent job caring for our members and keeping us well informed.”