COMPUTERPALS SOCIAL ACTIVITIES
2022
Christmas Lunch
Our member’s Christmas lunch was held on Friday 16th December at the Cardiff RSL Club with a roll-up of 43 participants.
President Barry Keen opened proceedings with a welcome to members present and a brief update of Club happenings, including the news that our Club had won the overall ASCCA Club Champion for 2022 in Photography and Creative Writing (tied with Turramurra) – a magnificent effort, and congratulations to all entrants with special praise for the award winners. Lindsay Threadgate added that the clearance of all stored goods last Saturday was effected, thus relieving the Club of storage fees for those items not now needed. Special thanks also was given to the President, Committee and Tutors for their efforts in ‘steering the ship’ through the transition from a permanent base to what is operating now – quite a challenge.
The time for ‘official talk’ over, members then happily selected their favourite dishes from the Buffet and enjoyed each other’s company over lunch. With the Christmas/New Year break upon us, it was time for many to wish each other all the best for the forthcoming Festive Season.
From the ‘Social Department’, both Beryl and I would like to especially thank those members who supported our various activities throughout the year and wish all members a Safe and Merry Christmas/New Year period and look forward to catching up in 2023.
Brenton Elsey
Social Secretary
On Friday 4th November, a second attempt to visit the Tilligerry Habitat proved successful, with 16 participants enjoying a day out in Nature.
A morning tea/meeting stop at McDonalds, Williamtown enabled the group to gain a caffeine fix before assembling in a convoy for the drive to Tanilba Bay where the Tilligerry Habitat is located. Without losing anyone enroute, all those attending gathered for a group photo before checking out the headquarters, talking with the volunteers and gathering a map, ready for their ‘nature exploration’.
Monday 17th October – Get Online Week
We had a great rollup of 74 people to our Get Online Week activity ‘Tech with Tea & Scones’. There was a lot of fun with the various activities using our smartphones and it was pleasing to see everyone participating and ‘trying one thing’ new. It was nice to see Natasja and Brooke from Good Things Foundation joining us for the activities. Thank you to everyone – the helpers and the attendees for making this a great day.
Social Outing – FRIDAY 19th of August saw a fine day with some cloud, for our lunch date at the Lake Macquarie Yacht Club
For those unable to attend, the LMYC is well worth a visit some time.
Our member’s Annual AGM and Lunch was held at the Cardiff RSL Club, with just 33 members attending, no doubt the ongoing COVID situation affecting numbers.
Barry Keen was re-elected President, along with Jackie Lampe filling the Vice President role and Grahame King as Treasurer. Wendy Smith was welcomed as Secretary with Lindsay Threadgate reappointed as Publicity Officer. All other Committee positions were filled with no other changes.
Formalities over, it was then time to sample the culinary delights of the Club eatery and enjoy a chinwag with fellow members.
Morning Tea – Monday 4th July saw a great attendance of some 73 members & guests for the first Morning Tea/Meeting held at our new ‘headquarters’, Club Lambton (Lambton Bowling Club).
President Barry opened proceedings with a welcome to members and guests and an outline of the Club’s current situation. He then introduced the first of the guest speakers, Liz Curran and Olivia Paterson from Service NSW who did an excellent job of explaining the numerous benefits and savings available, covering a diverse range of services including power and water supplies, travel and accommodation vouchers etc. They also advised that one could book a personal meeting with a Service NSW person for a full explanation of all the savings on offer to seniors, thus avoiding the sometimes-difficult process of navigating through the myriad of options within the site.
A ‘yummy’ Morning Tea followed, put together by Immediate Past President Sandra and her helpers, giving members a chance to mingle and catch up, while others took the opportunity to ask further questions of the Service NSW ladies or pay their annual membership renewals to Treasurer Grahame.
‘Tank & tummies’ satisfied, it was time for the next guest speaker, Kathy Lewis from NovaCare to enlighten members on the various home care services available. This topic was certainly of interest as we are all closing on the time of needing some of what is on offer, if not for ourselves then maybe a family member. Plenty of questions were asked and there was a good amount of literature available to allow members to take home and absorb in their own time. After lucky door prizes were drawn, it was then pack-up time, with members then able to once again mingle or ask further questions of the guest speakers before heading home.
It appears the move to this locality for the holding of such events (along with classes and committee meetings) has been met with approval judging by the excellent attendance, helped in no small way no doubt by the excellent parking facilities – a real point of concern at our previous location.
We had guest speakers (Olivia & Liz) from Service NSW talking about how they can help save you money with price comparisons for your utilities etc and concessions and vouchers on offer from the State Government.
Of course, we then had morning tea & lucky door prizes – thank you to all the helpers! Following on was Kathy from NovaCare speaking on navigating aged care and how their organisation can help you – don’t wait ’til you need help register early was her advice.
—————————————————————————
Saturday 7th May
A fine day beckoned on Saturday 7th May as 18 members met up in the Rathmines Bowling Club carpark in readiness for an Information Session/Tour of the former RAAF Catalina Flying Boat Base.
Our Tour Guide, Mr. Bill Anderson (President of the Rathmines Catalina Memorial Park Association) then led us into the Club where he and a couple of other Association volunteers served morning tea. Bill then gave us an insightful and informative slide presentation detailing the history of this important RAAF Base, from the site selection process through to the commencement of operations in December 1939, and the vital role it played in the WW2 effort. Catalina operations consisted of reconnaissance, bombing, mine laying, supplying troops and coastwatchers, and performing air-sea rescue missions. The role played by Catalina aircraft and crews received very little public recognition because of the need to maintain secrecy. One of the most significant operations conducted by a Catalina Squadron was the location of a Japanese task force heading to Port Moresby. This information was relayed to the Australian and American Navies, allowing them to intercept the Japanese force resulting in the battle of the Coral Sea. The outcome was the withdrawal of the Japanese forces from Australian waters and the sparing of an invasion of Port Moresby.
Following this presentation, we made our way to the Memorial Park, the location of the memorial tower and a number of plaque-covered walls commemorating those who served there. Next, an inspection of several interesting sites necessitated a car convoy to cover the area in which these sites were located. With our brains overflowing with newfound knowledge, it was time to return to the Club for a very generous lunch and a browse at the Association’s merchandise display.
Our group was made feel most welcome by the friendly and well organised Association members who looked after us extremely well, and I’m sure those who attended this outing would concur. Bill Anderson mentioned that the Association’s Catalina is currently undergoing restoration in a private shed at Kilaben Bay, and discussions revealed that a group visit to inspect this ongoing work could be arranged for another day, so stay tuned.
Brenton Elsey
Our Social Day Out on Friday 4th March, 2022
With the ground soggy from the ‘big wet’ and further rain predicted, it was decided to cancel our First
Term outing to Green Point Reserve and instead of meeting for lunch at the Belmont 16’s Club.
Under patchy blue skies (would you believe it!), some 14 Members enjoyed each other’s company in airconditioned comfort. Tales and yarns were spun in between eating, with everyone enjoying the altered outing.
2021
Our Christmas get-together
Our Committee decided the safest option for our Christmas get-together would be to again meet in Speers Point Park for a picnic lunch on Friday 3rd December. As was the case last year, the Club booked the large Open Shelter (near the Stage) to cover any vagaries in the weather.
As it happened we got reasonable weather despite the forecast.
24 intrepid members gathered for what turned out to be a very pleasant picnic in the park. All enjoyed the day.
Our Social outing nature walk and photographic opportunity at Tilligerry Habitat along with Tanilba Bay Foreshore Reserve, Tanilba Bay had to be postponed. Maybe we will be able to reschedule it for next year.
Saturday 1st May 2021 – Car Observation Run
Starting point was McDonald Jones Stadium, with a route taking us through Broadmeadow, Islington, Carrington, Mayfield North, Kooragang Island and finishing in Stockton where we lunched at the Boatrowers hotel.The weather was kind to us and we all enjoyed a great day out.
Monday 19th April 2021 – NSW Seniors Festival event – Learn & Lunch (in the Islington School Hall)
We had an excellent turn out of participants (best we’ve had for years). Everyone appeared to enjoy the program and were very active in their participation. The BeConnected presentation from Carolyn Keane & Mitzi Gordon on Smart Home devices was well received. The photos taken at our last social day out were displayed on the big screen in a slideshow and smaller versions were printed and posted on boards around the room for judging by those in attendance.
The sandwich lunch went down well also.
The major lucky door prize went to Ian Watson
Saturday 6th March 2021 – SOCIAL DAY OUT – A WALK
With the Bureau of Meteorology report promising???? a cloudy day with a possible morning shower, 20 intrepid photographers gathered in Carrington for a photographic walkabout.
Cards were handed out showing 8 topics to capture, all within a marked territory on the participant’s maps, covering parts of Carrington, Maryville, and Wickham. With one of the topics being Exercise, a few shooters grabbed an early lead by snapping a short 4-legged canine chasing after his athletic master around the adjoining park – quite a laugh for all to see. The wide range of topics to cover saw the field quickly scatter in all directions, hoping to capture those special shots. With 4 ‘eateries/drinkies’ located throughout the target area, there was ample opportunity to call in for a pit stop refresher. With their mission accomplished, the shooters then dispersed in all directions to fill in the rest of the day, no doubt a little weary in the legs, but hopefully satisfied with the result of their efforts. Participants were invited to submit 2 entries in each category to be judged in a popular vote at the upcoming Seniors Festival Learn & Lunch in April.
(The winning entries are shown below – thank you to all who voted on 19/4 and the Tally people)
Abstract – Beryl Elsey
Advertising – Barbara Bartlett
Exercise – Brenton Elsey
Industrial – Barry Keen
Rope – Barbara Bartlett
Transport – Sandra Keen
Urban Pattern – Sandra Keen
Free Choice – Merv Pope
2020
Christmas Picnic Lunch
On Monday 30th November under somewhat grey skies, 39 members were present to celebrate a ComputerPals Christmas Lunch with a difference, held this time as a picnic in Speers Point Park due mainly to the ongoing COVID-19 restrictions.
Fearing a Summer heatwave or storm, a decision was made to hire the large, level shelter at the park, enabling members to dodge the possibilities of a hot sun or rain. This decision was vindicated, as an exercise group were occupying the shelter on our arrival and shortly after, a ladies Probus group had intended using it also. A couple of showers added to the justification for this move.
Possession settled, members rolled up with all the usual picnic fare, those forgetting their tables able to dine comfortably thanks to Fred Neal supplying 4 long ones. The shelter provided enough room for those present to sit or move around and mingle while adhering to socially distancing rules. Barry Keen then presented certificates to members who gained awards for the recent ASCCA Photography competition, and for all families an informative publication regarding online safety for grandparents and carers.
With tummies satisfied and conversations slowing, it was time to pack up after what had been a happy occasion for those present. Beryl and I would like to take this opportunity to wish all members a very Safe and Happy Christmas and New Year – it must surely be better than 2020.
Brenton
Saturday 7th November 2020 –
Car Observation Run
Under skies that threatened showers after lunch, all participating vehicles and their crews managed a successful departure with a correct left turn out of the stadium. However, the scrutineers (Beryl and I) had a ‘hand in mouth’ moment when one of the participating vehicles headed off from the carpark in the opposite direction, only to correctly turn left from another exit from the stadium precinct – whew!, a clean and successful start.
With the scrutineers heading off to the finish line to secure a COVID-safe finish line-cum-picnic lunch area, participants were cut loose, armed with their list of instructions, directions, and questions to complete. With an estimated completion time of approx.. 2 hours, an anxious wait began for the safe arrival of the cars. Under somewhat clearing skies and a douse of sunshine, the first rally participants arrived, with the rest turning up over the next little while. As is usually the case in similar events, there are stragglers, and ours was no exception with one crew having an unscheduled pitstop at Warners Bay. However, a full muster was counted, some real-life socialising and lunch commenced while the scores were tallied. With a mixture of excellent and respectable scores, one crew had to be first and one crew had to bring up the rear (the Bradman prize for most incorrect answers), and these two were the lucky recipients of a bottle of wine, kindly donated by our own Barry Keen.
With the opportunity to socially mingle in person rather by Zooming, everyone present appreciated the change in what has been a rather trying and tedious year – a positive sign for 2021 we trust. After an enjoyable outing (no serious driver/navigator ‘blues’), a southerly buster dropped the temperature considerably, signalling the start of the exodus home before the weather became too unpleasant.
As this was our last excursion for 2020, Beryl and I would like to sincerely thank those members (and especially the regulars) who supported the few outings over the past troublesome year that we managed to hold, and look forward to more next year.
We had 25 participants in the car run and two others joined us later at Speers Point Park for the picnic. A really fun day out.
21 members ventured to Savannah’s Cafe and then on to the Morpeth Museum on Saturday 8/3/2020. Great company and an excellent day out.
2019
The time for ‘official talk’ over, members then happily selected their favourite dishes from the Buffet and enjoyed each other’s company over lunch. With the Christmas/New Year break upon us, it was time for many to wish each other all the best for the forthcoming Festive Season.
From the ‘Social Department’, both Beryl and I would like to especially thank those members who supported our various activities throughout the year and wish all members a Safe and Merry Christmas/New Year period and look forward to catching up in 2020.
Brenton Elsey (Social Secretary)
Friday 6th September, 2019 – All of our volunteers received an invitation from Sharon Claydon MP to receive recognition in the 2019 Newcastle Volunteers Awards.
Congratulations everyone – well deserved!
Saturday 24th August, 2019 – Social Day Out – to Maitland Regional Art Gallery
Twelve members and partners enjoyed morning tea before viewing the excellent current exhibition in the refurbished historic building.
Most stayed on for lunch at the very popular Gallery Restaurant.
Friday 16th August, 2019 – AGM & lunch
Was held at Cardiff RSL Club.
Monday 3rd June, 2019 – Members Morning Tea
Olivia Paterson & Elizabeth Curran from Service NSW, Wallsend were our guest speakers at our Members Morning Tea.
They informed us about the Service NSW website and what you can do online. How you can access NSW Government services. (e.g. Vehicle Registration, Drivers Licence, Cost of Living savings …. the list of services goes on). There were many questions from the floor and it was all very informative.
Social Day Out – Saturday 18th May – Rail Motor Society at Paterson
A fine day beckoned on Saturday 18th as 16 members paid a visit to The Rail Motor Society, Paterson.
After a scenic drive through the rolling countryside, members met up at the old Station Master’s Cottage which today houses some railway memorabilia and doubles as the Society’s headquarters. First up was a ride in the historic CPH Rail Motors out to Wallarobba and return. These units were built in the 1920’s for use on the NSW branch lines and provided sterling service for over 60 years before being retired from active service. Given the age of these trains, their condition and running was a tribute to the expertise and dedication of the volunteer workforce entrusted with preserving this area of railway heritage.
Back on the ground, it was up to the Cottage where tea, coffee and hot dogs provided much needed sustenance before a tour of the depot. Inspection of additional Rail Motors, the workshop area and some old railway carriages being meticulously restored rounded out a very interesting and enjoyable day. Several members showed further interest in the operations of The Society, as they operate numerous shuttles, trips and tours throughout the year – well worth consideration.
My sincere thanks to Lindsay Threadgate for supervising our group, as being a member of The Rail Motor Society, I was on duty there on the day.
Brenton Elsey
Morning TeaMonday 18th March dawned grey and drizzly for our Morning Tea, held as usual in the school hall adjacent to our premises.
With a pleasing roll-up of some 50 odd members, President Sandra Keen commenced proceedings with an update of Club news and information, highlighting our upcoming classes and courses especially for new members. Special mention was made of the Be-Connected online assistance available for members to participate in rather than just listen, and also the importance of signing in when commencing a ‘lesson’. Next, our special guest speaker was Wendy Birrell from Roads & Maritime Services, who gave an excellent presentation of Road Safety for Seniors and the Light Rail. The last trams in Newcastle were withdrawn from service in 1950, so only a handful of us who lived in the area then would have seen them. Wendy highlighted the need to learn and understand the rules and safety measures taken to ensure a smooth transition to the integration of the light rail with motor vehicles and pedestrians. With these shiny new red and white trams running silently, it is most important to stay alert and keep a lookout when in the area and be aware of the additional traffic signals enabling safe crossing for pedestrians, not forgetting the 40 kph speed limit throughout the length of the tramway. Judging by the numerous questions asked showed this presentation was well received and timely for those in attendance.
With a ‘caffeine fix’ needed, morning tea was then called, enabling members to share a cuppa and a yarn with those present.
NSW Art Gallery in Sydney on Saturday 23rd February 2019
A small contingent of members travelled to Sydney for a visit to the NSW Art Gallery.
Following the train trip to Central, we were met by Elaine Butler (ex C’Pals President and now Sydney resident) and current member Barbara Bartlett who was down there visiting her daughter and family. Following the obligatory comfort stop, we adjourned to the brand new Eternity café at Central Station where one and all marvelled at the transformation and improvements to a ‘foodie stop’ at this location. Next, we proceeded by train and a walk to the Art Gallery.
This magnificent structure has stood the test of time, and the grandeur of the façade is matched by the impressive display halls, while the static and travelling exhibits offer something for all tastes in art. One of the main attractions was the travelling exhibit ‘Masters of Modern Art’ which was recommended to us by one of our members who had seen it while overseas. Organised tours were conducted for this and a few other exhibits, while some chose to wander around at their leisure to study the various art pieces on display. Culturally nourished, we then met up at the Art Gallery café for lunch, with much discussion on the merits (or otherwise?) of the various displays.
At this point, some members chose to stay on a while, while the majority mustered the energy for the trip home, farewelling Elaine and Barbara at the station prior to our return train trip.
