A total of 29 members attended the day, which started with a stop at Heritage Gardens plant nursery.

After morning tea, a look around the nursery and a few purchases the members hopped back on the coach off to lunch.

Lunch was held at Hexham Bowling Club.

Probus Club member Bill Tyne said the meal was a real treat for the members.

“This was not lunch this was a banquet for all, one of the best meals we have been served,” he said. 

“No one could ever say they went away hungry.”

After that it was back on the coach again to Ash Island.

Upon arrival the members were met by a guide.

He gave the attendees a detailed explanation of the buildings including the school, which has now been taken over by the National Parks and Wildlife. 

After the guide gave his talk, they took a short drive to see the old radar station.

Mr Tyne said this was a very historical spot, with interesting old buildings.

“How many times have we gone past the Ash Island sign and said ‘I wonder what is at the Island’,” Mr Tyne said.

“Now we all know and wondered why we did not do this before.”

Mr Tyne said it was a great day, and wanted to thank the organisers and their capable bus driver Grahame Bathgate.