Jim Fagan
Noosa community group U3Anoosa is looking for new members and president Liz Gleghorn insists they don’t have to be retired or over 65.
“I think people have the wrong idea about us—that you have to be a senior to join. That couldn’t be more wrong. We have no threshold on age. Although our members are predominantly seniors, anyone is welcome.”
Liz has been president for four years and is enthusiastic about U3A (University of the Third Age) which has groups across Australia. The local U3A which meets in Tewantin was formed more than 25 years ago. “We are all volunteers here, tutors included.”
She told Noosa Today: “U3Anoosa is a community association dedicated to promoting the intellectual, emotional, social and physical well-being of its members, using education and structured activities as vehicles to achieve these goals.
“We are like-minded people who have common interests and develop beautiful friendships.
“The social side of things is certainly just as important as the learning. We believe we have a good mix and that we cater for all sorts of people and their needs.”
The organisation has an average annual membership about 650 but it would like more.
Liz said: “We want to entice back those members we have lost during Covid but we would also like to expand. We’re looking at establishing U3Anoosa elsewhere, maybe in the Peregian Beach area, but there’s a lot of work to do first.”
The group will start its year next Monday with 43 different courses and classes on offer in a curriculum with something for the energetic like line dancing and Scottish country dancing and for the creative—writing, crafts, acrylics, painting. There are also courses on learning languages, history, science, computers, Shakespeare and much, much more.
“We have the space to fit in more classes so the plan this year is, as well as attracting new members, is to also look for tutors — people who want to put their hand up and share their passion with others,” Liz said.
U3A Noosa, 64 Poinciana Avenue, Tewantin, commences February 14 at 9am. Inquiries phone 5440 5500 or email info@u3anoosa.com.au.
