Probus South Africa

Sir: I was most interested in the article on the Probus Movement (Autumn 2016). We have a very vibrant Probus Movement here in South Africa. The first Probus Club was formed in Durban in 1977. At present there are 96 clubs in South Africa. There are four Regional Associations with some 44 mixed clubs, 41 men’s clubs and 11 ladies’ clubs.

They meet monthly and several times a month for outings, walks, and fellowship. My husband belongs to Hout Bay Probus.

People may ask “Why do we belong and what makes the concept so great”. The bottom line for our existence is friendship and fellowship amongst like-minded people. To my mind there are three basic types of people in the world, regardless of colour or creed, they are: “Those that make things happen, those that watch what happens and those that wonder what on earth happened”. You will find that most Probians fall into the first category!

What makes the organisation so unique is the sanctity of the individual clubs. We all operate under a common umbrella with certain ground rules, but the integrity of each individual club allows us to achieve our enjoyment in different ways. It’s a great movement to belong to in retirement. — YVONNE MONRO,

Secretary Probus Association of the Western Cape, SUN VALLEY, SOUTH AFRICA.