Strong interest in U3A for 2026

HEATHCOTE U3A welcomed three new members at the sign-up day last week, each looking forward to joining a range of groups and activities through the year.

President Nancy Miller she was pleased to see so many members attending the sign-up despite the extreme heat.

“U3A Heathcote always welcomes new members,” said Ms Miller.

“The U3A or University of the Third Age connects members through shared interests and activities.

“Membership is generally for semi-retired or retired persons, but as our membership is growing older with the average age 70 to 85, and we need to start recruiting younger members.

“As president, I would like to encourage younger members to join, as they bring fresh ideas to an organisation.

“Current U3A Heathcote groups are a book group, creative writing, singing, lunch group, gardening, chair-based exercise stretching group and movies.

“These activities are all held during the day on different days of each week during the month.

“That is not to say that some of these activities could not run during the evening for younger members of the community with their own convenor.”

On the first Thursday of each month, U3A Heathcote holds a coffee morning with a guest speaker.

“Our morning coffee get together has seen great presentations of relevant topics to our membership,” said Ms Miller.

“Everyone is welcome to come along and meet fellow members and get to know more about our activities.

“Our Facebook page has been revamped, and as a result three new members joined on our enrolment day.

“Anyone who is interested can join at any time, even if they missed the enrolment day.

“Fees are $50 for single members and $80 for couple membership.”

U3A Heathcote can be contacted at [email protected] or via Facebook and welcomes approaches from anyone interested in running activities, being on a committee or just taking part in what is on offer.

“It’s a great way to keep to our motto: live, learn and have fun,” Ms Miller said.