Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields—Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Minister for Building, and Minister for Corrections) — It was a tenuous beginning with the initial committee of the Macquarie Fields Probus diving headfirst into figuring out meetings, responsibilities and how exactly a Probus works. The group has since flourished, and a tightknit group of retirees meet regularly to stay active and involved in the Macquarie Fields area. Publicity Officer Jenny Woolfe says Probus is about "friends, fellowship and fun". Weekly walks around the local area, library meetings and cafe get-togethers means there is always something social on the calendar. Since its beginning in February 2025, the Macquarie Fields Probus has grown to 36 members. One guest speaker, chosen in relation to the members' interest, presents at every meeting. They've heard from Botanical Garden volunteers, CEOs, and local leaders. In 2026, Probus looks forwards to "more walks, more talks and more coffees". Several exciting events are already on the calendar, including a ferry trip for lunch in Watsons Bay and a talk from singer/songwriter Linda Barnes. I congratulate Macquarie Fields Probus on its achievements to date, and I trust that the group continues to enjoy ongoing success and more adventures into 2026.
22 December 2025

