Mid North Coast U3A groups meet in Port Macquarie

REPRESENTATIVES of mid north coast branches of the University of the Third Age (U3A) gathered in Port Macquarie on Thursday 16 July to share procedures and practice with each other.

U3A is an international organisation founded on the belief that people in their third age of life still have much to learn and contribute.

Each U3A offers a wide range of courses designed to encourage lifelong learning and social connection.

Laurene Mulcahy, President U3A Network NSW, spoke about the importance of the organisation.

“We do the best thing for our community – we get people involved, we keep them active physically and mentally, and most importantly we provide a social network which helps to overcome loneliness.

“We need to be bold and known in our communities.”

The mid north coast is one of nine U3A regions in NSW and the network supports and provides service to each U3A.

The network gathering gave U3A representatives the opportunity to discuss membership numbers, details of public liability insurance, course licences and other issues such as succession planning, publicity, resources, technology and budgets.

Eileen Parr from Manning Valley U3A said, “We currently have about 35 classes with 350 members.

“Our focus this year is on creating a more social atmosphere for our members, rebuilding social connections across our groups.

“We have two morning teas each semester where about 60 members attend.

“Our annual luncheon is a fun event held in Term 3 which has been running since we started in 1999.

“Another big event is our Christmas concert, which is an institution showcasing the talents of all our members – ballroom dancing, ukulele, singing, an art exhibition, and poetry reading.

The U3A State Network conference is in Armidale 13-15 April 2027.

If you would like to join your local U3A, make contact and try a class.

By Pauline CAIN