- Probus is a network of local social clubs that bring people together through friendship, shared interests and community connection.
- Probus clubs operate throughout Australia and New Zealand, offering members opportunities to stay socially active and engaged.
- Clubs are run by members, for members, with activities reflecting local interests and communities.
- Since its inception, Probus has helped more than half a million retirees stay engaged and connected.
- Probus is for retirees, semi-retirees, older Australians looking for connection, conversation and community involvement - no matter what religious denomination, gender, or cultural background - everyone is welcome.
- Probus is not political, not religious, it is not a lobbying or advocacy organisation, it is not a commercial or profit-driven enterprise
- Probus was founded in Australia in 1976 and 1974 in New Zealand.
- Probus was created to ensure people had access to social connection and friendship after leaving the workforce.
- The first Probus club in Australia was established at Hunters Hill in Sydney, and in Kapiti Coast in New Zealand. Both Clubs continue to provide connection, friendship and community for more than 50 years.
- Over 50 years, Probus has grown to include more than 90,000 members across over 1300 clubs
- The benefits of Probus extend far beyond its members, with friends and family benefitting from the positive social connections Probus provides its members.
- Social connection is a key contributor to wellbeing, mental health and quality of life, particularly as people age.
- Research consistently shows that strong social connections are linked to better mental health, wellbeing and life satisfaction.
- As people transition into retirement, opportunities for regular social interaction can change.
- Community-based social groups provide routine, purpose and a sense of belonging.
- Staying socially connected helps people remain active - socially, mentally and physically.
- Probus Clubs are built around regular, face-to-face interaction.
- Members connect through shared activities, outings and conversation.
- Clubs operate locally, allowing people to connect close to home.
- Probus Clubs offer a welcoming environment that supports positive aging.
- Communities across Australia and New Zealand are ageing.
- Social connection plays a vital role in supporting wellbeing later in life.
- Probus offers a practical, community-led way for people to stay engaged.
- Probus remains as relevant today as it did 50 years ago, because it adapts to the interests and needs of its members snd continues to provide connection, friendship and community at a local level.
- Since its inception, Probus has helped more than half a million retirees stay engaged and connected.
- 50th celebrations are taking place through local Club events across Australia.
- A key commemorative event to launch the 50th Anniversary celebrations will be held on 3 February 2026 at Hunters Hill, the location of Australia’s first Probus Club.
- National events also include Government House receptions across Australia, a 50th Anniversary cruise and a National Picnic/Lunch on 1 October 2026 to mark the start of Probus Month.
- Founded in Australia in 1976 and in 1974 in New Zealand
- Operates across Australia and New Zealand
- More than 90,000 members across over 1300 clubs
- Probus Clubs are not-for-profit and are run by members for members
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: MONDAY 19 JAN 2026
Probus is marking a significant milestone in 2026, celebrating 50 years of bringing people together through local clubs built on friendship, connection and shared interests.
Since the first Probus Club formed in Australia in 1976, Probus has grown into a vibrant network of social clubs spanning across all states and territories of Australia, supporting more than 90,000 members across 1,300 clubs. Over five decades, Probus has played a vital role in helping people build meaningful social connections and stay active and engaged at every stage of later life.
At its heart, Probus is about connection and community.
“Probus was created to ensure people had a place to connect, form friendships and enjoy life beyond work,” said Silvana Martignago, the CEO of Probus in Australia and New Zealand.
“Fifty years on, that purpose is more important than ever. Research consistently shows that strong social connections are closely linked to improved mental health, wellbeing and quality of life as people age. Studies have found that staying socially connected can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are increasingly recognised as key challenges for older Australians.”
As Australia’s populations age, social connection has become increasingly important for mental health and wellbeing. Probus clubs provide a welcoming environment for retirees, semi-retirees and those planning their next chapter, offering regular activities, outings and opportunities to build genuine friendships.
The benefits of Probus have been widely recognised by all levels of government as well as the Governor General of Australia highlighting the significant contribution Probus makes to the lives of older Australians.
Probus’ 50th anniversary will be celebrated through local events hosted by Clubs across Australia, reflecting Probus’ strong community roots. A key commemorative event will be held on 3 February at Hunters Hill in Sydney, home to the oldest Probus Club in Australia, which first opened its doors to new members on that date in 1976.
The Probus Club of Hunters Hill & District event will bring together members, past and present, to reflect on the amazing 50-year milestone achieved by this Club and Probus. The Honorable John Howard OM AC will be in attendance to launch the official start of the 50th Anniversary of Probus in Australia.
Probus is also pleased to announce that well known media identity Heather Ewart will also attend the Hunters Hill event as the National Spokesperson for Probus.
From city centres to regional communities, Probus clubs are as diverse as the members who belong to them. While activities vary from club to club, the common thread is a shared desire for community and companionship.
Heather is proud to be associated with such an organisation whose sole focus is to help older Australians enjoy a quality retirement. “Every Probus club is different, but they all offer the same sense of belonging,” Heather said. “That’s what has sustained Probus for 50 years, and it’s what will carry it forward into the future.”
Anyone interested in learning more about Probus or finding their local Probus Club are encouraged to visit probussouthpacific.org for details or call the PSPL Team at 1300 630 488.
ENDS
For interviews with Heather Ewart, spokesperson for Probus, or Silvana Martignago, the CEO of Probus in Australia and New Zealand.
About us:
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Probus is a social network of Clubs for people seeking connection, friendship and shared activities.
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Probus clubs operate throughout Australia and New Zealand.
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Membership is open to retirees and semi-retirees.
Contact details:
Primary contact:
Marcie Cheers, The Creative Collective
[email protected],
0415 385 816
Secondary contact:
Yvette Adams, The Creative Collective
[email protected],
0405 022 977
