MONTHLY MEETINGS
“Fun, friendship and fellowship”
All members and prospective members are welcome to attend the monthly meeting. Come along at 10:30am on the second Thursday of every month to the Nelson Bay Bowling and Recreation Club, Stockton Street, Nelson Bay 2315.
The meeting features updates on activities, morning tea and a guest speaker. Once the formalities are over we retire to the Marlin Restaurant for a convivial lunch.
Chris Peters, Historian, Tomaree Museum Association
April meeting
Chris provided an overview of the activities of the Tomaree Museum Association plus an interesting cameo local historical characters and events
Leah Anderson, Port Stephens Councillor & Volunteer with Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
February meeting
Leah provided an informative presentation on the work of the Port Stephens Sanctuary. The Sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to see koalas in their natural habitat and also supports their long-term rehabilitation, preservation and conservation in the wild.
Nick Arena, Owner Cookabarra
December meeting
Nick Arena discussed the trials and tribulations of establishing and running a barramundi farm and restaurant in Bob's Farm. Nick then provided informative answers to questions from the audience.
Previous Speakers
Helen Dykes, Volunteer, Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre: Helen described the referral and other services provided by the Centre to empower and improve the quality of life for community members and groups
Roger Ridley, Retired: Roger presented the evidence that supports the view that extensive tunnels were constructed under Fly Point during WW2, an historical detective story
Brent & Tracy Kelly, Photographers: Tracy and Brent have travelled extensively throughout Australia and South Africa and shared their travel experiences through a series of stunning photographs
Carolyn Virgona, President Community Arts Centre Port Stephens: Carolyn discussed the Community Arts Centre Port Stephens before talking about the history of Fly Point and the Arts Centre building
Graham Nickisson, Community Liaison Officer, Westpac Rescue Helicopter: Graham described the work of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter including his experiences as a pilot with the service. He stressed the importance of the community service that they provide
John "Stinker" Clarke, Author & Raconteur: John delivered a thoroughly entertaining talk about the efforts of the Tomaree Museum Association to establish a local museum
Norm Casson, Member: Norm's talk was titled "Mind Your Mind" and covered what retirees could do to keep themselves physically and mentally active and alert. Some excellent ideas for all members
Kevin Maley, Retired: Kevin was working in Darwin in 1974 when Cyclone Tracy struck. He recounted the story of how he and his family were lucky to survive as their house was blown away around them and they were thrown to the ground metres from where the house had stood
Mike & Robyn Pierpoint, Members: Mike & Robyn delivered a hair-raising account of their experiences aboard the cruise ship Viking Sky when it suffered engine failure off the coast of Norway. They were lifted off the ship by helicopter and spent several unplanned days in a small town in Norway
Inductees and life members at the December 2021 meeting
