How Probus keeps connecting everyone after all these years
Probus Tour Director Barbara Hosking … “I don’t know where I’d be without Probus”.
Q: I’m here with Barbara Hosking. What’s your family background in the Korumburra area?
A: The Hosking name isn’t originally from Korumburra—I married my husband who is from Dumbalk North. I was a Ferguson who grew up in Poowong and spent time in Korumburra. My dad’s family bought a farm in Poowong in 1939, and my mum’s family, the Lawrences, bought a farm on Warragul Road in the 1930s.
Q: Tell us about your own family.
A: I have three children. We farmed in Simpson for 20 years, where our kids went to school. Now, one daughter lives in Dubbo with her husband and my grandchildren, my son lives in North Sydney, and another daughter lives in Epping, Melbourne.
Q: How would you describe your life so far?
A: Pretty relaxing. I’ve been retired for 19 years. We retired early because none of the kids wanted to farm—they all chose different careers: a chemical engineer, a pharmacist, and a Microsoft computer specialist.
Q: What drew you to join the Probus Club?
A: After being away for 30 years, we came back to Korumburra. Joining a club like Probus was the best way to meet people when you no longer have school or kindergarten connections. I’ve been in Probus for over 17 years, serving on the committee almost the entire time. I’ve been treasurer for 10 years and am now in my 11th year as tour director. I also run a craft session at Milpara Community Centre and volunteer with other organisations.
Q: What is the purpose of Probus?
A: Probus is all about fun, friendship, and fellowship—and food, which I call the fourth “F.” It gives people a chance to get out, talk to others, and stay socially active.
Q: What activities does the club offer?
A: We have monthly bus trips, like visiting the Dandenong Market or seeing shows such as the Dolly Parton musical. There’s a monthly Dine Out lunch and a regular dinner at the local bowling club. Other clubs have walking or movie groups, but Korumburra’s hills and many existing community activities mean we focus on social outings.
Q: How many members are there?
A: We currently have 72 financial members and a few prospective ones. Our maximum is 100 members. When I first joined, the Coal Creek Probus Club was full, and the older club had a waiting list of 150. Numbers have dropped over time as members age and participation changes.
Q: What benefits do members get?
A: Connection. You get to meet people, share a laugh, and feel better when you leave. It’s a way to build friendships and stay active.
Q: How do you feel after so many years of involvement?
A: I’m busy but happy. I don’t know what I’d do without Probus. It keeps me connected and gives me purpose.
Q: What changes have you noticed in volunteering and community involvement?
A: It’s harder to find volunteers. People retire later and often want to travel rather than commit to clubs. Years ago, community groups like footy clubs and cake stalls thrived on volunteers—now people seem less willing to commit.
Q: How do you see social media affecting your club and community?
A: Social media is useful but challenging for our age group. Many members don’t use email or mobile phones, making communication difficult. Some don’t know any different and are happy without it.
Q: What does Korumburra mean to you?
A: It’s where I went to school and worked, and it holds many memories. There’s a strong community feel here, even with many new residents. It’s important to reach out and welcome newcomers.
Q: How can people join the Coal Creek Probus Club?
A: We don’t have a website or Facebook page, but if you Google “Probus Clubs Korumburra,” you’ll find contact details. We meet on the third Tuesday of each month at the Korumburra Golf Club from 10 a.m. to about 11:45am. After meetings, members often head to the Top Pub for lunch.
