U3A keeps up classes despite lockdown

DESPITE a series of lockdowns in 2021 and unexpected cancellation of courses, U3A SurfCoast has put together a term three program of 27 classes and activities that it describes as “the most ambitious program in its seven-year history”.

In a world made uncertain by COVID-19, U3A sees social connection as crucial especially for those in the 65-plus demographic.

Activities range from the educational to the entertaining and informative.

A highlight of the term three program will be a series of three lectures starting on August 12 on the Geelong Football Club from Col Hutchinson, Cats life member and specialist in AFL statistics and a football historian.

Hutchinson is the author of several books including Cats’ tales: the Geelong Football Club, 1897-1983.

He will cover many important moments and events involving the Cats over their history, dating from the formation of the club in 1859.

Hutchinson’s love affair with the Cats began in 1958 when he started attending Geelong home games.

His 61-year streak of attending Cats’ home games came to an end in 2020 when fans were not allowed into games due to coronavirus.

In February this year he was awarded the Jack Titus Award by the AFL for his service to football.

At the other end of the scale, counsellor Louise Day from Dementia Australia will present a session on understanding dementia – an introduction to the different types of dementia, diagnosis, planning ahead and how to support someone living with dementia.

The session on September 10 is suitable for people living with dementia, their family carers, family members, and people who are concerned they or someone they know may have dementia.

It is estimated that there are about 472,000 Australians living with dementia

The U3A poetry group will show off their poetry skills with Our Big Fat Poetry Extravaganza at which local prize-winning poet Julie Mclean will launch Wandering and Wondering, a collection of member poetry.

Popular tutor Tim Robinson returns with “I Contain Multitudes”, which will look at the depth and variety of both American music as a whole and Bob Dylan in particular, starting with the multitudes of “old music” including Appalachian, blues, Cajun, jazz, country, rock and more.

For more information or to enrol, head to the U3A website, phone 0435 374 139 or email [email protected].