Celebrating 50 years of Probus in Australia

PICTURED: Former Prime Minister John Howard AC AO, pictured with Probus Club of Hunters Hill President Josephine McBride, was a guest of honour at the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations on 3 February.

Fifty years on, Probus continues to strengthen communities across Australia through fellowship, shared experiences and its enduring partnership with Rotary.

The 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia has become a national, year-long party, with members and clubs gathering to recall the past, the good times and an optimistic future. Many clubs are also recognising and connecting with their sponsoring Rotary clubs as part of their historical celebrations.

The Probus movement had its genesis in two ancestors – both in the UK and both established by Rotary clubs. The first was known as the Campus Club. It was formed in 1965 by the Rotary Club of Welwyn Garden City, 30km north of London. The second was formed by the Rotary Club of Caterham in 1966 and was named the Probus Club for the ‘PRO’ in professional and the ‘BUS’ in business.

Both were formed to meet the need for companionship and mental stimulation for retired business and professional men.

Today, Probus remains one of Rotary’s greatest success stories, open to both men and women. Since formation in 1974 in New Zealand and 1976 in Australia, Probus clubs have continued to provide social activities and fellowship to members of the community who are either semi or fully retired.

There are many synergies common to both Probus and Rotary. Each organisation plays a vital role in the communities they serve, and the strength of Probus’ success is the result of the partnership of Rotary and Probus working together.

“The Probus anniversary is a proud achievement for Rotary, providing a tremendous opportunity to celebrate and highlight our mutual achievements, while sharing our future vision and introducing significant numbers of people to the benefits of our organisations’ membership,” said Chair of the 50th Anniversary Committee Judith Maestracci AM.

The Australian Organising Committee was formed in mid-2025. The dedicated group of members from every state and territory has been actively formulating a wide range of activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Probus in Australia.

The committee, also known as 50COM, comprises a hard-working group of Probus members, including six of the nine Probus South Pacific Limited Board Directors.

“We have worked effectively and harmoniously,” said Judith. “Our efforts have been substantially supported by PSPL’s CEO Silvana Martignago and our Parramatta team, as well as our state and regional Probus associations. An impressive program of advertising, promotion and media activities has been developed and will continue until late 2026.”

“Creating a greater awareness of the important role that our clubs play in our communities is a prime objective,” said Silvana. “An outstanding outcome of our program has been the remarkable offerings of positive testimonials from our federal, state and territory politicians.”

In addition, all Australian state governors and the Governor-General are recognising the anniversary with official receptions and functions.

Anniversary celebrations kicked off on 3 February, which marked the establishment of the first Australian Probus club at Hunters Hill, NSW. The event was attended by former Prime Minister John Howard AC AO, who was the Federal Member of Parliament when the club was formed. The event highlighted the important role Rotary has played in the success of Probus in the South Pacific.

Opportunities to make new Probus friends and acquaintances will be extended with holiday experiences. Close to 300 members will be joining two ocean cruises as well as a number of regional tours
being organised.

Working groups are planning sporting matches, tournaments, a photography competition and special events, including a nation-wide picnic/luncheon being held across Australia on 1 October, Probus Day.

The 50COM has also developed a number of commemorative items, including an envelope produced by Australia Post, a special labelled sparkling wine from Chandon, red and white wines from Western Australia and an attractive range of 50th anniversary merchandise, balloons, drink coasters and chocolates.