Probus Club of Ararat gather for first time in months

Probus Club of Ararat's picnic in the park earlier this month was the first time in about 10 months the club had been able to hold a formal event due to COVID-19.

Club vice president Alan Grant said it was a relief to get back together after such a lengthy absence.

"Everyone really enjoyed it," he said.

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"It was really good being able to see each other again after a long, long time away."

The pandemic presented the club with its greatest challenge since it was founded in 1984.

However, the club still appears to be in good health, as club secretary Rod McClurg commented he was impressed to see about 50 people attend the gathering.

"It was very well attended considering the circumstances."

Mr McClurg said there would be more opportunities for members to meet in the coming months.

"We just haven't been able to hold anything because of the restrictions, and now we're confident we'll be able to get back into the swing of things," he said.

"We'll have our annual Caravan and Cabin Trip, where we'll go to Castlemaine on March 8. It's a very nice town.

"We've also got our annual bowls tournament teed up for the end of March.

"We'll have fewer competitors because of the COVID rules, but we're keen to have it."

Mr McClurg said the club had also sought to stay in touch with its members while they were unable to meet.

"We've been in regular contact with our members," he said.

"We've been doing a ring around to make sure everyone's okay, and look out for their welfare."

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