By Mikayla van Loon
To celebrate Probus Month in the Yarra Ranges, the Lilydale Probus Club hosted a picnic in the park for its fellow clubs, with a visit from a local pipe band.
On Thursday 19 October, members from Olinda, Lilydale and Croydon Probus clubs gathered at Lillydale Lake to first do a lap of the walking track, before settling in a shaded spot for some lunch, followed by a special performance from the Ringwood Highland Pipe Band.
Organised by Lilydale president Rhonda Watson, she said the day was designed to be “a social day for everybody”.
“It was such a happy occasion for the members from Lilydale, Croydon and Olinda Probus clubs,” she said.
“The weather was beautiful and the musical performance by the pipers and drummers from the Ringwood Highland Pipe Band was an added bonus. Their attendance was much appreciated and enjoyed by everyone.”
It’s one of the first times clubs from across the region have come together but it’s something the collective groups want to do more of, with another event for Probus Month being held by the Olinda group on Saturday 28 October, where the Singularity Choir will sing.
For Croydon Probus Club members Carol, Karin and Audrey, getting to enjoy the sunshine and company was enough of a hook to attend.
“That’s what Probus is all about. It’s about meeting new people,” Karin said.
“It’s about friendship and fellowship and fun,” Carol said.
But the most exciting part of the day was the visit from the pipe band, something everyone eager to see and listen to.
“I could listen to them all day,” Karin said.
Having received a small grant from Yarra Ranges Council of $250, Rhonda presented the cheque to pipe band president Mike Taylor as thanks for their time and performance.
