Community & Business
8 December, 2021
Pittsworth’s U3A celebrates 10 years
Pittsworth’s University of the Third Age (U3A) celebrated its 10th birthday on Saturday November 27th at the Function Centre.
Ros Scotney OAM opened the celebration by welcoming all those in attendance and providing a brief history of the formation of U3A.
“In May 2011 Peter Daley, then manager of the Council Service Centre, in Pittsworth and myself, Toowoomba Regional Councillor, attended the Seniors Expo at the Hume Ridge Centre with the intention of finding out about the U3A organisation and if there could be a place for it in Pittsworth,” Ms Scotney said.
“Fortunately the first person we met was Rhonda Weston at the U3A stand who was so helpful to us giving us valuable information of the workings of U3A.
“Rhonda offered to come to Pittsworth to meet with a small group of interested persons.
“The response was very encouraging, so we decided to call a public meeting at the Function Centre offering residents the chance to understand the workings of U3A.
“The meeting was attended by over 70 people who were all keen to learn what courses were on offer, so on that day U3A was born in Pittsworth, with 12 courses being registered and tutors offering to take on the role in their field of experience.
“Lyndall Madden offered to be Tutor Coordinator.
“U3A is the largest provider of adult education in Queensland and all programs are run by volunteers.
“Learning in our later years has proven not only to benefit our physical health but our overall wellbeing.
“At present we have eight courses in Pittsworth.
“We’re always looking to start new courses but tutors with skills are a priority to get the relevant courses going.
“In 2022 at the end of January there will be the ‘booking in course’ day and hopefully there will be an influx of new members and volunteer tutors.
“Standing before you today I feel proud that myself and Peter Daley played a role in bringing this wonderful organisation to our community in 2011.
“Happy 10th Birthday Pittsworth U3A.”
To complete the happy afternoon the Singing for Fun Group, in the capable hands of Cheryl Fowler, entertained the guests, who were encouraged to join in, with a bracket of ‘Golden Oldies’.
Trish Arnold’s Ukulele Group followed with bright and breezy pieces, well played by her enthusiastic group.
Sincere thanks to both groups for their fine effort.
Inge Gajczak and Cecelia Krieg also deserve a mention of thanks for the beautiful display of photography and art on show for the guests to view at their leisure.
Members of Toowoomba U3A Executive Committee were also welcomed.
Afternoon tea was provided after the formalities by Belinda McKinlay, who has also given many years of service to U3A in her capacity as Computer tutor.
The Open Morning of enrolments will be held on the 25th of January 2022 at 67 Yandilla Street from 9.30am to 11am.
