23 Blokes Lounge builds mateship From fortnightly lunches to walking, golf and cards, Blokes Lounge gives Gold Coast men an easy way to meet people and feel part of a community. For more than 14 years, the club has helped members stay connected through retirement, relocation and other life changes. For Blokes Lounge Inc, that simple gathering is the point. The incorporated and insured community association gives older men a regular place to meet, share a meal, join activities and build friendships at a stage of life when social circles can shrink. The group meets in a private room fortnightly on Tuesdays at Mermaid Waters Hotel. From 11am, members, prospective members and guest speakers gather for tea, coffee and a chat before lunch. That simple gathering is the starting point where blokes meet new people and make new mates. President Tony Flew said bonding continues during the many recreational activities. “There is no pressure to perform or to be busy every day,” Tony said. “Members can take part as much or as little as they like, choosing from relaxed social events, sport, hobby groups and online catchups.” Founder and life member Ian McDougall recognised the need for the organisation back in 2012 after seeing how retirement, relocation and the Gold Coast’s transient population could leave men without the everyday contact many once found through work, neighbours or long-standing community ties. The club now numbers more than 100 members. Rather than placing loneliness at the centre of the conversation, Blokes Lounge offers something more natural: a reason to turn up. A walk, a game of cards, have a hit of tennis, play nine holes of golf or a shared lunch can become the starting point for friendship. Its calendar reflects the variety of interests among members. Activities include walking, cycling, golf, tennis, pickleball, cards, table tennis, meals, book swaps, ten pin bowling, computer activities, guitar playing and online gatherings. For newcomers, the first step is often the hardest. The organisation encourages prospective members to make contact, come along, meet the visitor hosts and see whether the group feels like the right fit. Membership is required to take part in activities, and members must have, or arrange, their own transport. The group’s public values emphasise respect for people regardless of ability, race, spiritual belief or sexual orientation, with clear expectations around courtesy, open discussion and appropriate behaviour. At a time when many communities are looking for practical ways to support ageing well, the Blokes Lounge shows the value of ordinary connection. Sometimes, the most important service a local group can offer is a place where someone notices when you walk through the door. Want to go along? Blokes Lounge Inc meets fortnightly on Tuesdays at Mermaid Waters Hotel. Men interested in attending are encouraged to visit the Club’s website blokeslounge.org.au) where all activities and times are set out. They can also contact them by email at blokeslounge@gmail.com. GOLD COAST HINTERLAND HERITAGE MUSEUM Heritage Centre, 238 Mudgeeraba Rd Mudgeeraba. The volunteer staffed museum demonstrates pioneer family life with several significant donated buildings from the region including Nerang Railway station, Tallebudgera Jail Okey and Franklin Houses, a slab hut, Blokes Big shed showcasing items used by pioneers, general store and butcher shop. Open Sundays 10am–2 pm, other times by appointment. Community and school groups welcome to book. Adults/High school students $10, Primary School children $5. Family (2 adults/ 2 or more children) $25 PH: 07 5559 1457 E: info.gchhmuseum@gmail.com Website gchheritagemuseum.org.au or Facebook NERANG VIEW CLUB. Meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month at the Nerang RSL, 69 Nerang Street. (Meeting and lunch). Lucky door prizes as well as a raffle, guest speaker when available. A trade table is also available with some home made delicious goodies with all proceeds going to our learning for life sponsorship for disadvantaged children through the Smith Family. Ladies we would love you to come along for an enjoyable afternoon and make new friends. Ph: Carolyn on 0412 643 621 or Marie on 0405 089 094. AFRICAN DRUMMING. Come and learn the fundamentals of African rhythm on traditional African drums. No musical background needed, and beginners are welcome. Group drumming is great for the brain and lots of fun. First class is free. Mondays 6:30 to 8pm. Nerang Community Hall. Ring Paul on 0408984046 CARRARA COMMUNITY CENTRE ART & CRAFT GATHERING - 11 Nov, 9 Dec - 9.30am-12.30pm $10 entry. All materials for creative projects will be supplied or bring along a project you’re working on or may need assistance with. Kindly bring a plate to share for morning tea. Tea and coffee provided. Bookings Essential - Jelena 0400070863 / email recycledcreations@myyahoo.com. 2 Neilsens Rd, Carrara SURFERS PARADISE ROTARY, People of action in Your Community. Looking to give back, make new friends, and be part of something bigger? We support youth programs, local charities to organising fun events and International Aid projects. Come along, no pressure and see what we’re all about. Guest Speakers and lively meetings. Meet likeminded people who, together, are making a difference – right here at home every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 6.00pm, dinner 7.00pm at Gold Coast Tavern, 150 Bundall Road, Bundall. Rotary, doing good. Feeling great. Helen Derrick, President – Surfers Paradise Rotary Club, Mobile: 043 335 2420, Email: hderrick@ozemail.com.au THE BROADBEACH SENIORS CLUB - 23 T.E. Peters Drive, Broadbeach invites new members and visitors over 50 to join in and enjoy a variety of activities. A concert is held at 1pm on the first and third Thursday of each month with afternoon tea provided. Bus excursion fourth Thursday of each month to places of interest with lunch provided. Sporting activities including indoor bowls provided for members to enjoy. The Club is welcoming and friendly, please come along and join the fun. Nancy 0423 792 810. PROBUS CLUB OF VARSITY LAKES is a mixed club for retired and semi-retired people seeking Fun and Friendshipmeeting on the 3rd Wednesday of the month with morning tea and guest speaker, a Dine Out and an outing which might be a coach trip, and low-cost interest groups such as Trivia, Walking, Book Club, Theatre and Music. Robina Community Centre, Robina Library precinct with support from Division 11 Gold Coast City Council. Enquiries: Roma Murray Ph: 0425 207 975 TIME 4 FRIENDS Meets at Nerang Uniting Church 5 Nerang River Drive Nerang every Friday at 9.30am to 11.00am Donation towards a cuppa. A morning tea and activities for those who want a place to meet others. Activities include trivia quiz, craft, board and card games. Do much or as little as you wish and come and go at a time which suits you. Contact Anne 0407 694 653. THE BLOKES LOUNGE INC is a friendly and inviting social group created specifically for men aged 50 and over. If you’re looking to have a chat, meet new mates, or just enjoy others company, or just get out of the house, this is the place for you. Members gather informally either whilst having lunch or participating in an activity of your choice, such as cards, golf, table tennis, bike riding or many other activities. The Blokes Lounge offers a place where mateship truly matters. We also gather at the Mermaid Waters Hotel fortnightly for lunch. Like to find out more? Call Membership - Coordinator Ross Hawkins 0402858227, Secretary - John Clark 04196727871, or visit our web site at www.blokeslounge. org.au or email blokeslounge@gmail.com.
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