A cruise to Antarctica in February this year was the theme for an illustrated address by Bronte Woodward to the Moonta Probus Club on July 7th.
Introduced by President Helen Colliver, Bronte explained how he and his wife Carolyn, accompanied Carolyn’s mother Pat on the ship “Ocean Endeavour”, left Ushuaia Southern Argentina, through the notorious “Drakes Passage”, to the Arctic Circle and beyond.
By good fortune they avoided the often encountered 12-14 metre waves and saw their first iceberg just before the Continental ice sheet which is calculated as more than 3 Kilometres thick!
Illustrated highlights include sighting humpback whales, Orca killer whales and sea bird life including Albatross, Skua and Petrel. Freezing weather at the Arctic circle crossing meant a forehead “tattoo” for passengers and spectacular pre - “deep winter” sunsets over the islands. Bronte endured a Polar sea water plunge (with safety rope) at 0.5 deg. C and then, in remarkably still waters, Zodiac boat rides to an abandoned Stonington Island Scientific base. A similar excursion to an abandoned UK base on Horseshoe Island was of particular interest.
Two seater kayaking made for adventurous moments and the marriage of a Manchester couple on an island, in regular clothing, was a highlight of the journey.
Leopard seals pursuing penguins, majestic Emperor penguins, whale tail flutes, as individual as are human finger prints, moss and lichen surviving incredible freezing temperatures, and, the friendliness of the South American people helped make this cruise memorable for the three adventurers.
Katrina Mudge moved a vote of thanks on behalf of the Probus members to Bronte and Carolyn – it was warmly endorsed.
President Helen gave special mention of July birthdays to Jan French, Marg Bastian and Moreen Huddleston. Denice and Don Karutz celebrate a wedding anniversary on July 17th. Congratulations to all!
Gordon Woods reported on attending the NYP Rotary Club Presidential Induction of Mem Westbrook by O/G President Sue Liebelt on July 1st. It was a great occasion for all concerned.
Members were reminded of upcoming events. Friday August 15th. is a combined lunch with Minlaton Probians at the Maitland Hotel and then a visit to South Kilkerran. The exciting three days in Peterborough, Tues. 21st. to Fri. 24th. October, has an itinerary fully planned.
Diners Group regular lunch is at Weeroona Hotel Wallaroo; 12 noon on July 18th.
Next Club meeting is August 4th. to hear Janine Mercer regarding “Show Entertainment”.
Looking for fun and the best of fellowship in retirement? Ring Secretary Marg Bastian on 0417 826 703 for good advice.
Retirees need friendship and fellowship – ring Secretary Marg Bastian (0417 826 703) if so interested.
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