Pakenham Probus is a fascinating social and learning group with interesting speakers each month.
On 2 June Fiona Cost spoke to the group, firstly thanking the Wurundjeri people.
She discussed the impact that family violence has on children.
She said that police reported a 7-10 per cent drop in violence where the community joined to create respect and included children and all ages.
Violence comes in all forms and all ages. She encouraged Probus members to be aware and communicate to help bring an end to family violence in Cardinia.
In July the club listened as Jon McPhee spoke about his life. He was a Rotary member and has now written a book. Seventy years ago he lost one leg.
He described a most interesting life.
He lived in England and Australia through the war years.
After he lost his leg, he worked as normal, integrated completely, and even walked 20 kilometre stints. What an amazing man.
In August Ralph Slaughter spoke.
He was trained as a veterinarian but roses were his calling. He gave members a fascinating view in his talk The Rose – An International Favourite.
Ralph did a course in public speaking and has travelled a lived around the world, including in England, New Zealand, America, Melbourne and Noosa.
He built numerous homes and planned and worked areas of rose gardens in all climates, proving roses could be grown most anywhere.
Members enjoyed videos of his amazing gardens and other beautiful experiences and listed many interesting rose varieties.
His top tip – prune low and irrigate!
