U3A goes high-tech

NEW teleconferencing equipment will enable Heathcote U3A members who are unwell, undergoing treatment or unable to drive, to join groups and meetings.

President Nancy Miller said it will help to keep members involved when they can’t attend regular sessions.

“It will be a great boost for members who are ill or recovering from surgery,” she said.

“We have several members who are unable to attend for various reasons but still want to be part of their groups.

“This technology will enable them to join in even if they just sit and listen and will help to cheer them up and speed up recovery.

“It won’t be suitable for all the groups but for current affairs, writing and when the garden group has a guest speaker it will make a difference. Even for the chair yoga exercise group it will be valuable.

“As long as participants have a phone and a suitable chair, they will be able to hear our instructor Tania and do the exercises at home.”

Ms Miller said the committee will be investigating other uses of technology for the future, but are taking small steps.

“Teleconferencing is available to everyone who has a phone, mobile or landline, and we have landline access at the Guide Hall where we meet,” she said.

“Zoom meetings are a little more difficult as there is no internet connection but with upcoming development of the Civic Precinct and library anything is possible.

“Once teleconferencing is set up it will be easy to access. All members will need to do is call their group convenor and they will be given a number to call to access the meeting.

“For someone on a cancer journey or recovering from surgery, I know it will mean a lot and they won’t feel so isolated.”

Ms Miller said anyone is welcome to join U3A which has a book club, creative writing, singing, current affairs, lunch and cryptic crossword groups, and chair-based exercise sessions.

“We welcome suggestions for other groups as long as we have convenors to lead them,” she said.

U3A Heathcote can be contacted at [email protected].