A WELL attended Annual General Meeting of members of Vaga Probus Club welcomed Paul Mason as their president for the next 12 months. Paul has been the club's dedicated social secretary for the past five years and in accepting his new role he reflected on his joining Vaga in 2010 when membership numbers reached 40. With two potential new members in the wings, Paul's year could easily celebrate membership levels reaching 60.

Paul praised outgoing president, Rod Barker for his caring and focused leadership supported by a well organised and experienced committee in sustaining the growth mindset which has been a feature at the Vaga Club for several years. This culture has been based upon creating a shared identity through meaningful talks/discussions at the club's fortnightly meetings and regular social trips and occasions which have added further value and enjoyment.

Paul will continue to enjoy the benefit of a highly experienced committee with William Hazelton as secretary and Keith Ray as treasurer aided by Chris Grover in an examiner type role. It reflects well on Herbie Renfield that in continuing as speakers secretary for another 12 months he will combine this responsibility with that of being Vaga's vice-president. Members will now have the benefit of David Dawson bringing a fresh approach to the social secretary's role and also having Tony Watts on board to bring new ideas as their committee member without portfolio.

Members have been fortunate that their committee has also included Peter Attwood who now stands down having very capably looked after publicity for the past few years. Andrew Talbot-Ponsonby was also thanked and will be missed following his five years stewardship on the committee during which time he was club president and speakers secretary.

The club also values the stewardship of Sara Jones and her team at the Ross Conservative Club where meetings take place on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday mornings of each month.