U3A off to a good start
University of the Third Age (U3A) held its annual enrolment day last week, with a much better turn out than expected.
A group spokesperson said this seemed to reflect that those who were restricted during the pandemic felt relief at being able to get out and participate in life again.
“The committee and convenors worked extremely well in running the very busy morning,” the spokesperson said.
“A highlight was the participation for the first time of the Age Well in Benalla Information Hub.
“Hub members provided valuable information to older people who attended about electricity concessions that were available and offered advice about Benalla Rural City Council’s home assistance program.
“Information about the future role of Council’s Aged and Disability services was also available.
“The Hub was successful in providing some referrals to U3A last year and it was pleasing to note that these referrals resulted in new U3A members.
“(We are also) pleased to advise that following the enrolment day there are 248 members including 23 new members and four life members.
“However, new members are still encouraged and are welcome to enrol at any time during the year.”
Enrolment forms can be obtained from the Redb4 bookshop in Bridge St, Benalla.
“U3A Benalla has been very lucky to have a core of volunteer convenors to run a wide variety of activities and programs and it punches well above it weight with this and the participation rate, often outperforming groups from much larger communities,” the spokesperson said.
“For people aged 55 (and above) U3A Benalla offers 44 courses in 2022.”
These include activities such as easy walks, bird watching, gardening, lifeball, meditation and exercises for fun.
People can participate in social groups, such as wine appreciation, meet and mingle, chat and chew, gardening and Saturday card games.
“If mental pursuits are preferred, perhaps history, politics, the news — fact or fiction, investment, exploring the universe or some language courses may appeal,” the spokesperson said.
“Alternatively the collectors group, coin collectors group, armchair traveller and stock and land may be of interest.
“Art appreciation, family research, film and book discussions, singing and recorder groups, writing or craft groups are other activities available.
“For those who would like to become more up to date with topics of currency, sustainability and technology groups may appeal.
“Especially learning about solar power and (how) to use smart phones, iPads and exploring the digital world of emails, shopping and banking.”
● For more information about U3A Benalla, visit u3abenalla.weebly.com or phone secretary Geraldine McCorkell on 0408
522 662. The group’s 2022 annual general meeting is being held on Wednesday, March 16, at 10am in the U3A room, Benalla Senior’s Centre, 18 Fawckner Dve. All are welcome.