On the grapevine

Consequently, a cheque was presented last week by long-standing Probus secretary Kath Gregory and president Heather du Vallon to hospital auxiliary president Mary Powell for the amount of $1200.

The club began in 1988 for retired and semi-retired men to offer opportunities for them to enjoy fellowship with like-minded people; to sit back and be entertained by a range of fantastic guest speakers; enjoy organised trips; and actively visit various other clubs in the region.

There were 21 foundation members when the club was formed, with Frank Gearing elected chairman. Meeting monthly at the Tavern Room of the Cobram Hotel, a bulletin was printed by Cobram Secondary College for members reporting on each meeting and upcoming events and it was noted at the bottom of the first bulletin, scrawled in pencil, “Like good wine — this bulletin will improve with age — I hope!” -Ed.

The identity of the writer, Ed, is unknown but undoubtedly the quality of the bulletin would have improved with teachers and professional men amongst its members.

The Cobram Ladies Probus Club was formed at a similar time as the men’s one and in 2011 a questionnaire was sent out to members of the men’s club regarding the two clubs merging. This resulted in a small number agreeing to the change, while one third of members did not return their papers. A formal debate was later held and a secret ballot followed with a decision made to change the clubs’ status to a club for both men and women.

Membership grew as a mixed club, and members enjoyed many happy and successful years. However, over the years it was difficult to attract a younger members and with the current members advancing in age and with health issues, the club had little choice other than to fold.

The Cobram Hospital Auxiliary is another Cobram group that has been part of the community for a great many years and while it also struggles to attract new members, continues to do what it can to provide for the hospital through their fundraising activities.

In the past year it has contributed furniture and items to the hospital and Irvin House to the value of $8500, which has included shower chairs, a high-back adjustable chair, a rowing machine, saddle chairs and more.

President Mary Powell said the auxiliary was most grateful to Probus club for this donation.

“We are very sorry their group has been forced to fold. We will however put the money to good use for the betterment of the hospital patients and Irvin House residents,” she said.

Students make their parents and schools proud

Eleven local primary students competed in the Cobram Lions junior public speaking competition last Friday and indicated from their amazing performances at a young age that they can look forward to a fine future.

The students competed in two categories, Grades 3-4 and Grades 5-6. Each one acquitted themselves particularly well and were a credit to their schools and families.

Grade 3-4 participants were asked to prepare a speech on the topic of “Oh No! You’ve turned into a giant”, which brought considerable laughter from their families, teachers and guests.

Grades 5-6 were to prepare their speech on “Strange World Records set in History”.

The students certainly touched on some interesting subjects, including a man who achieved recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records for eating objects made from metal.

The older students were also required to give a short preparation speech. Given a topic after completing their set speech, they were allotted 10 minutes’ preparation time before being recalled and asked to speak on a given subject for one minute. Not an easy ask, but the students handled it beautifully.

It was a difficult task for the judging panel of three who discovered there was little comparison to be made between the contestants. In fact, just half a point separated the winner and runner-up for Grade 5-6 and one point separated the winner and runner-up in Grades 3-4.

Winners: Grade 3-4 - First - Alice Lebner; Runner-up - Oliver Adkins (both students of Cobram Anglican Grammar School).

Winners: Grade 5-6 - First - Ruby Berry of St Joseph’s Primary School. Runner-up - Alison Orwin of Cobram Anglican Grammar School.

Winners will now compete in the district final to be held at Tocumwal within the next two weeks.

Winter market this Sunday

Looking for somewhere to go this Sunday? Why not stroll along to the winter market to be held at St Joseph’s Hall between 9am and 1pm.

There will be 20 stalls showcasing creative artwork, local produce, handmade items, timber products, macrame and so much more.

The Makers’ Market is an initiative supported by Moira Creative Arts and organised by Arts For All, and has something to offer everyone.

Do come along, the Cobram Lions Club will be running a delicious barbecue too.

High time at Byramine high tea

Sundays throughout June have kept Byramine Homestead hosts Nicole and Wade McPherson, and their team, extremely busy, catering to more than 40-50 people each day with a sumptuous high tea.

Nicole said this was a new initiative by the couple during the winter months.

“We are thrilled with the way it has all gone, people are definitely enjoying themselves and we have had wonderful feedback,” Nicole said.

High tea-goers tucked into delicious mini treats (all home-made) including petite sausage rolls, mini quiches, party pies, club sandwiches, melting moments, jelly slice, lemon curd tartlets, chocolate brownies and large scones with jam and cream.

But that wasn’t all. Champagne was provided in abundance, together with unlimited fruit juice, tea and coffee.

In all it was a wonderful two hours of pure indulgence, and undoubtedly much appreciated in the middle of winter, judging by the excited chatter and happy smiles.

The high teas will continue throughout July. If you are interested you should contact Byramine now to avoid disappointment as many on the waiting lists have yet to enjoy the experience.

There are several tables still available during July, so book today by calling 5748 4321.