For anyone over 50, semi-retired or retired, the U3A (University of the Third Age) is a great way to keep busy, meet others, learn new skills and exercise the brain and the body.
With low fees and membership rates, courses offer connections with hundreds of other local people who are keeping active and connected with the world.
Now in its 21st year, our local U3A has begun running classes again in Term 4, 2020 after a six-month hiatus, though with fewer courses and enrolments than usual. But many members are happy to be back in our classes, though of course there are COVID-19 regulations to follow. All sessions for now are at the Manning Uniting Church in Taree.
This term’s courses range from Philosophy and Cryptic Crosswords, to Yoga, Art, Play Reading and Music Makers (instrumental) – no choir or ukulele groups are possible at this stage due to regulations.
Open Forum is a time for some lively discussions on current events, and the Time Traveller classes are learning about Azerbaijan and Georgia this term. We are hoping to be back to a full range of courses in 2021, with various new classes added to the mix.
At our recent Annual General Meeting we were pleased to honour retiring tutor Pam Archer, who has led our SilverTones choir for 11 years. This group has presented many concerts over the years, including performing at the Wingham Scottish Festival, and has raised around $18,000 for local welfare projects. She was presented with her award by our long-running team of organisers, Pam and Ern Hollebone.
Anyone with a passion or skill wanting to share this interest with others is invited to contact the local U3A about offering a class. In 2021 there we are planning a wide range of classes including French Conversation, International Folk Dance, Legal Matters for Seniors, and Buddhist Philosophy. We are hoping that choir and ukulele sessions will also be able to re-start.
A new Management Committee elected at the October Annual General Meeting is keen to maintain and extend the activity of our Manning Valley U3A in coming months.
We invite you to have a look at our website: https://manningvalley.u3anet.org.au/
Heather McLaughlin, Secretary
secmanningu3a@gmail.com