Rosebud Probus Club votes to finally allow women to join
ONCE a male-only domain, Rosebud Probus Club has finally allowed women to join the ranks in a bid to bolster dwindling membership.
South East
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THE times they are a-changing at Rosebud Probus.
Just a few years ago, a vote on whether to allow females into the group got a resounding ‘no’ from members.
But the club has done an about-face, welcoming its first two female members, Irene Uttley and her good friend Antoinette Carey.
Among those to change their tune is Mrs Uttley’s husband, Len.
Once vehemently opposed to allowing women into the club, saying he reckoned it was better to stick with tradition, Mr Uttley now hopes allowing women to join will bolster the club’s dwindling membership.
“Things have changed and membership has fallen,” he said.
Mrs Uttley, 88, previously drove her husband, 91, to and from club meetings.
These days she hangs around and enjoys socialising as a well as a range of activities offered by the club.
“I’m happy to join. What would I do previously — I’d go home and relax,” she said with a laugh.
Mrs Carey said she loved chatting with the blokes and hearing about their life stories.
She encouraged more men and women to get involved in Probus, which offers activities including woodworking and more for retired professionals.
“Our members are getting older, but they still have a lot of life in them. You need to have new blood.”
To get involved with Rosebud Probus, phone Mike on 5986 6804.
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