Written by “Chook”

Hunters Hill marked yet another pioneering milestone on the 3rd of February 2026, celebrating the
50th anniversary of Probus in Australia; the very first club formed in 1976!

Nearly 100 Probus members and guests gathered at ‘Gladesville Sporties Club’ to honour
five decades of friendship and community.

2RRR 88.5FM’s Rose James, Community Liaison Officer and “Chook”, Presenter of Chook’s Morning Roost and 2RRR Marketing Director were thrilled to be invited and to share this golden anniversary with our community.

Chook recalled, “I had so much fun! I thoroughly enjoyed the morning, meeting so many wonderful people, sharing stories and even chatting with John Howard, an unexpected bonus!”

Guests enjoyed a warm and welcoming morning featuring a live string quartet, a delightful
morning tea, and a ceremony expertly MC’d by Heather Ewart, Probus’ 50th Anniversary
Ambassador and award-winning journalist amongst many other accolades.


Speakers included Michael Ranson, Chair of Probus South Pacific Limited, Hunters Hill
Mayor Zac Miles, and Club President Josephine McBride.


The Guest of Honour, former Prime Minister and long-time Federal Bennelong MP, The
Hon. John Howard was a highlight of the morning. His gracious entrance immediately set a
warm, celebratory tone, and his keynote address, mixed humour, reflection, honesty and
heartfelt appreciation for Australia and the Probus movement. He shared stories of
community, the importance of connection in retirement, making new friends later in life and
the lasting impact of clubs and, “being a member of something” on everyday lives.


After the formalities, Mr Howard went above and beyond, taking the time to personally
greet almost every attendee, chatting with members, committee, and the 2RRR team —with
Chook even making him crack up laughing and Rose dropping the ultimate photo bomb!

The morning was a celebration of people, connection, community and lively conversation.
A special shout-out to Judith Maestracci (Director of Probus South Pacific), who quickly
became a friend of the 2RRR family and made sure we were welcomed and looked after.

Founded on the values of Friendship, Fellowship and Fun, Probus supports retired and
semi-retired people to stay socially active and engaged. From just 16 members at its first
meeting, the Hunters Hill Probus Club has grown to 95 active members, meeting monthly
and enjoying a full calendar of speakers, outings and social activities.

Fifty years on, Probus continues to prove that retirement is just the beginning.


Retired and semi-retired people interested in joining Probus can visit
www.probussouthpacific.org to locate a local club, including Hunters Hill, and discover the
Probus philosophy built on the three F’s — Friendship, Fellowship and Fun.