Gymea Mens Probus Club has made the bold move to allow women members for the first time in its 31 year history.
For Robin Gair, the newly-elected president of the Gymea Mens Probus club it was a question of the future survival of the club.
“When this club was inaugurated in 1987 it had 80 men as members which the constitution allowed, with a waiting list of ten or more and a waiting time of up to two years,” Mr Gair said.
“Over the past 10 or so years in particular, that number has gradually fallen to 50 members today and of course no waiting list and, sadly no replacements,” he said.
At the recent monthly meeting of the club, Mr Gair had to ask his fellow members, “Where have all the fellas gone”
Of the 31 Probus clubs in the shire there is only one Mens club left when in the past Mens clubs were the majority.
“At the time of retirement, when work relationships wither, Probus offers to fill the social and physical gap that usually follows,” Mr Gair said.
“So why is there a reluctance for men to join Probus and other clubs for that matter?
“Is it because minding grandchildren becomes a priority, travel, or simply too shy to’ have a go’.
“We do have men in our club with plenty of drive, such as Lou Ambrose who has been our Secretary for many years, our controller of finances Neil Wallace, our creative editor Bill Cassley whose monthly publication of our bulletin is the envy of every Probus club in Australia, .and the coordinator of trips and activities is the evergreen Peter Bruce.
“However, they are in the minority and the number is getting fewer and fewer. We needed to do something.”
Gymea Probus Inc (mens) committee decided to overcome the problem by becoming ‘combined’ - that is women to be welcomed in as full members.
“Gymea Probus put the question to its members ‘should we become combined’? The vote was 76 per cent Yes and 24 per cent No,” Mr Gair said.
“This is a good decision,. Without doubt women bring a sense of energy, enthusiasm and net working skills which will rejuvenate our club.
“So Gymea Probus Inc.(mens) is now Gymea Probus Inc. (men and women) we welcome ladies.
“Just come to one of our meetings at Gymea Bowling club at 9.30 on the fourth Wednesday of each month or check us on the web by googling Gymea Probus Inc. (men and women) or probusshireblue@outlook.com and make contact.
“You will be made very welcome.”
