The Dunedin South Ladies Probus Club celebrated its 35th anniversary at the St Peter’s Anglican Church Hall yesterday.
Its membership is made up of about 65 people — half a dozen in their 90s.
President Helen Crossan said the club was for retired people to do monthly activities, creating opportunities for them to make friends.
"It helps them to live longer when you’ve got friends."
The club was presented with a 35-year certificate from their parent body Probus South Pacific Limited.
About 42 of the clubs members attended the celebration — all dressed for the theme, which was hats.
"That was the committee who decided to add a bit of fun, a bit of frivolity to it.
"The formal part was giving the life memberships to the three worthy recipients."
Part of the occasion was dedicated to presenting life membership badges to long-standing members Gay Dungey, Diane Paull and Connie Watson, all in their 90s.
"Over the years, they have given over and above service to the club," Ms Crossan said.
"They don’t just come along. They’ve served on committees, they’ve been treasurers and presidents and they still belong to the club, even though they joined in about 2005 or 2006."
The club met on the first and third Wednesday of each month.
On the first Wednesday, members met at the church hall and had guest speakers for them to enjoy over a cup of tea.
"Some of them I only see every several months, but we’ve formed friendships because of the get-togethers — it’s been good in that way."
On the third Wednesday of the month, members were invited to take part in various activities around the community, Ms Crossan said.
Activities included trips to the cinema, afternoon teas and tours of local businesses.
"Social contacts are very important, and that’s what we’re providing, without going overboard.
"They look after each other, [and] you hear about when somebody’s not well.
Club member Sue Lambie said the celebration was "lovely" and there was "lots of laughter".
The group was all about making connections and getting to know people.
"I’d like to think that we are a welcoming group where people can feel comfortable coming on their own — I think that’s quite nice.
"When you go to something on your own, you do meet more people than if you go with someone who you just sit with and you do your own thing and go home."
Club member Janette O’Loughlin introduced Ms Lambie to the club about a year after she joined in 2010.
The pair met through the men’s group and had been regularly attending club events ever since.
"I think it’s important, especially for the men," Ms O’Loughlin said.
"Women meet people easier. We make a point of going out."
