PORT Macquarie Hastings University of the Third Age (U3A) celebrated its 20-year anniversary on Sunday, 7 September, with members past and present gathering at the Tenison Woods Centre to mark the occasion.
President Karen Roberts welcomed 50 guests, including Port Macquarie MP Robert Dwyer and Mayor Adam Roberts.
”Some of you are original members, those who plotted and planned and then worked hard to establish this organisation,” she said.
“Some of you are community members who will leave here today with a glimpse of what our U3A means to those involved.”
U3A branches offer educational classes, social activities, and community connection for adults over the age of 50.
“U3As across the world are volunteer-led and exist to foster friendships, camaraderie, opportunities to continue learning, but also opportunities to know that as we pass into our third age, we are still important and valued within our local communities,” Karen said.
The anniversary event was buzzing with stories and connections as members past and present reflected on the history of the U3A – the people, the classes and the social activities.
In attendance were original members Janice and Michael Matthews, who said, “We all have a story and we haven’t finished yet.”
In late 2004 a steering committee gathered to form what was to become the Hastings Valley U3A Inc, led by President Robert Gerdes, Vice President Carol Surrey, Secretary Brian Syms and Treasurer Ruth Lincoln.
Carol Surrey took over as President from 2006-2008, followed by Des Davis from 2009-12.
Classes were held in many venues around town until 2009 when Father Leo Donnelly offered the use of the old Regional High School library complex.
In 2011 Port Macquarie Hastings U3A (the new name since 2009) moved into the Maritime Museum, while still utilising a number of local venues.
Some classes were held in Laurieton and Wauchope.
In 2013 Fr Donnelly offered the use of part of the St Agnes’ Village facility in Lochinvar Place and a 10 year lease was drawn up with the parish.
“The lease has since been renewed for another three years and we acknowledge the continuing support of St Agnes’ Parish which provides access to the wonderful facilities we currently occupy.”
Membership started at 70 in 2004, quickly grew to 400 in 2008 and today is well over 500.
Offering more than 60 courses, enrolments for Term 4 will open on Monday, 13 October.
By Pauline CAIN
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