Manning Valley U3A Learning for life
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Manning Valley U3A
Learning for life
(Autumn Sunset over Kundle Kundle, Manning Valley)
WE NEED VOLUNTEER BUS DRIVERS
Now that we have access to reliable U-Drive buses,
we need some reliable drivers for our Day Trips.
If you have an LR licence and would be happy to help out
please contact Pam on 6553 9383
Manning Valley U3A AGM and Election of Office Bearers
will be held on Monday 29 April April at 11 am. After the presentation of reports, all
positions on the Management Committee will be declared vacant and the elections for office
bearers 2013-14 held. Our Constitution states that each committee member takes on a defined
area of responsibility. So many of you have skills which would enhance the expertise of the
Committee and benefit our U3A - why not nominate!! Nomination forms are included with
this newsletter. If you wish to stand for committee, please send in your form so that it will be
received by the secretary at PO Box 436, Taree, 2430
by close of mail WEDNESDAY 24th APRIL.
Note that no nominations will be accepted from the floor of the meeting.
Special Presentation
During the AGM Ross Wilkinson will be presented with a certificate acknowledging his
special contribution to our community. Be there to show your appreciation!!
Guest Speaker - The eHealth System
Ben Stevenson will be at the auditorium from 9.30 am until 12, with information and to
answer questions about the eHealth system and to give a short (10-15 minutes) explanation
as part of our AGM. eHealth is the electronic management of health information to deliver
safer, more efficient healthcare. The Australian government is facilitating the transition of
paper-based clinical record-keeping to electronic means for better information exchange.
Initially an eHealth record will contain basic information. Healthcare providers will be able
to add more information eg treatments, medications, allergies as the system develops. You
can control your own eHealth record, by choosing when and how health information
included in an eHealth record can be collected, used and disclosed and by restricting which
healthcare provider organisations can access it and what information is included.
Page 2 Words from Our President
Welcome all to the second term for 2013.
We acknowledge the traditional custodians of country throughout the Manning
Valley, the Biripi People and acknowledge their continuing connection to land,
culture and community We pay respect to Elders, past, present and future and
extend that respect to all Aboriginal people.
The AGM will be conducted on Enrolment day on the 29th April at 11 am. Thank you to all
those who have been nominated to positions for the committee for 2013-14.
I give sincere thanks to all Committee Members and the Membership of Manning Valley U3A
for their support for the past three years. I feel privileged and honoured to have been given this
position. I was fortunate to follow Maire Barrett’s leadership and was happy to move into
becoming President in a healthy U3A with membership numbers rising. Thank you Maire.
Lyn Rayward has been a wonderful Secretary, as well as being a close personal friend. Lyn
fulfilled every requirement as the “perfect Secretary”. Manning Valley U3A and I were
fortunate to have her as Secretary over a three year period. Ern Hollebone was my Vice
President until Margaret Sparkes-Carroll took on this role. A sincere thank you to both. Ern
continues to be our Membership Officer and manages Web matters. Ross Connell has been an
excellent Treasurer (we named him as “our Treasure”). Ross has managed our finances
efficiently, delivered with attention to detail whilst maintaining a sense of humour. Pam
Hollebone provided us all with comprehensive Newsletters and organised the programs for each
term. Helen Heathwood (Welfare Officer and organiser of the Sunday Lunch Group), Robyn
Brown (Commissariat and Theatre Trips) Paul Robinson (Publicity) and Julie Frederiksen
(assistant wherever assistance was required). I sincerely thank the Committee for their
friendship & support.
Without the supportive, friendly assistance given by all members at each activity, our U3A
would cease to exist. The organising and “clearing up” after morning and afternoon teas,
assisting presenters and generally making newcomers welcome are all aspects which make
Manning Valley U3A the wonderful club that it is. We now have over 360 members so the
inclusive nature of our members is more important than ever. A heartfelt thank you is extended
to all Leaders of groups and programs. We do not take their volunteering and splendid efforts
for granted as we are fortunate to have such enthusiastic and dedicated people to lead our many
and varied activities. We now have an annual afternoon tea in June where group Leaders are able
to meet & verbalise the challenges and rewards associated with leading a group. The programs
which have been favourites continue to gain strength and new activities are welcomed each term.
An outstanding success has been the Saturday 500 Card group where newcomers are welcomed
as much as the experienced players. The laughter and buzz in the room each Saturday is
wonderful as we are playing according to “a draw” and so new friendships are being formed.
We have also reactivated our Christmas Day Luncheon. This activity allows members who
would have been alone on Christmas Day to have a happy day with others.
I thank all for allowing me to hold the position of President of Manning Valley U3A over the
Page 3
past three years. I congratulate the incoming President and the new Committee and wish them
and all members of U3A, all the best in their future endeavours.
Merlin Freeman
CALENDAR FOR 2013 Page 3
Term 2
AGM & Enrolment: Monday 29 April 9.30 am – 12 noon Uniting Church, Taree
Activities: Tuesday 30 April – Friday 21 June Various venues
Course Leaders’
Afternoon Sunday 16 June 1pm – 3 pm Uniting Church, Taree
OBE Luncheon: Wednesday 26 June Sailo’s Restaurant
Term 3
Enrolment Day: Monday 15 July 9.30 am – 12 noon Uniting Church, Taree
Activities: Tuesday 16 July – Friday 13 September Various venues
OBE Luncheon: Monday 16 September Sailo’s Restaurant
Term 4
Enrolment Day: Tuesday 8 October 9.30 am – 12 noon Uniting Church, Taree
Activities: Wednesday 9 October – Friday 6 December Various venues
Course Leaders’
Luncheon: Wednesday 11 December Sailo’s Restaurant
Vale Help Us To Be Aware
Helen Heathwood Phone: 6550 0616
Joan Mackie email: helenheathwood@westnet.com.au
07-03-1929 to 26-03-2013
Please contact me, as Welfare Officer, if you are
Enthusiastic Silver Beater aware of a member who would appreciate
and Day Tripper contact or a card from U3A. Let us show
support for each other when we are grieving, ill
or stressed; let us show our happiness for each
Storage at the Uniting Church other when we are celebrating a happy occasion.
It’s all part of the MV U3A Family.
Members of classes held at the Manning
Uniting Church, please note that we have Storage of Your “U3A Stuff”
been allocated a white, lockable cupboard in
the reception area, (next to the goods-for-sale Wish I had a dollar for every time someone has
table) in which to store refreshments, rolls etc said they didn’t have their name badge, coffee
but note that the Table Games card tables mug, course folder … because they had used a
will still be held in the former storage area. different bag. All is solved!! Or will be if you
Kathy at reception has the main key but out- are interested in the proposed solution. At the
of-hours groups (eg afternoon classes) will NSW Conference one of the Eastlakes members
need keys. I will see each group to make showed us the tote bags they have made to use
arrangements. exclusively for their U3A stuff. The bags cost
$5, are waterproof, made from a tough vinyl sort
MV U3A CONTACTS of material and have a zip across the top. I have
contacted their president for details.
Membership: 6553 9383 Their bags are red & white
See P 16 - we would opt for
Postal address: PO Box 436, Taree 2430 blue to match our new
lanyards. If you would be
Email: info@manningvalley.u3anet.org.au interested, answer Q8 on
your Enrolment form.
Website: manningvalley.u3anet.org.au
Page 4 Cattai Wetlands Trip
by Helen Maybury
Today was our day for the Cattai Wetlands Tour. The sky was bright and the wind was cool, an
excellent day for walking for our group of 15 people. I had heard of the Cattai Wetlands and
always knew someday they would find me. What I was not aware of was the astounding beauty
of the extensive expansion of water covered by beautiful mauve/blue water lilies. In the
distance we could see black swans and other water birds feeding amongst the waterlilies.
As we began our walk around the circular paths, looking up I saw two wedged-tailed eagles
soaring high in the stratosphere. As we walked further into the wetlands and listened to our
guides, Terry Evans, Graham Stone and Bob McDonald, it was very satisfying to understand
the ecological value of improving the water quality of the Manning River through the
remediation of acid sulphate soils for the rehabilitation of these coastal wetlands. It is also an
important habitat link between Crowdy Bay National Park, the Lansdowne escarpment and the
Big Swamp to the northeast. Cattai Wetlands has a diversity of vegetation. The lower ground
is Swamp Schlerophyl forest and on the higher areas and ridges are the Blackbutt and
Tallowwood trees. Plantings of eucalypt trees are encouraging the re-foresting of the open
slopes. Some rainforest trees are also present in the wetlands.
The day was most enjoyable, being out once again in the Australian bush. The mosquitoes were
thick and fast, but did not deter our enthusiasm. I encourage all of you to make the trip to Cattai
Wetlands – it’s so close and you certainly won’t be disappointed!
U3A Network Conference in Goulburn
by Pam Hollebone
As there were only two adventurous souls who signed up for the tourist trip, it had to be
cancelled but Ern and I headed south in The Beast for the NSW Network U3A conference
which we enjoyed: interesting speakers, useful workshops, meeting up with friends from U3As
across the state and meeting new people from as far away as Bunbury U3A (WA) and Tamar
Valley U3A (Tasmania).
Goulburn is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year and there were reminders of this
everywhere: Goulburn-Mulwaree U3A volunteers dressed in period costume (and a fetching
bunch of lads and wenches they were!). Two very interesting books had been prepared by
U3A members: a beautifully illustrated history of Goulburn Courthouse and a valuable
collection of the memories & photos of many of the area’s older residents whose ages ranged
down from a spry 99! The process of interviewing, collating and checking took over 18
months and there is still enough material to fill a second volume.
And remember The Paragon Café? Anyone heading south on the Hume just had to stop there
for a mixed grill or a milkshake & it’s still going strong! Packed out at night, a tad overpriced
and mediocre food but what an important part of our earlier days!
While the show of autumn-blooming roses in many of the gardens was simply stunning, the
pièce de résistance was the Big Merino, all 15.2 metres and 100 tons of him, swathed in his
150th Anniversary scarf! Lynne, the unbelievably busy Courthouse historian had also
organised armies of little old ladies in nursing homes, other U3A members and probably even
Uncle Tom Cobbley to knit or crochet & assemble his magnificent 30 kg wool garland which
needed a crane to put it securely in place. The wiley old codger even has a twinkle in his eye if
you stand in the right spot. Marvel at his magnificence in the photo on Page 16!
2013 Seniors’ Week Awards 2013 New Year Honours Award Page 5
by Anne Thomas We have all been saying
A morning tea was held on Mon 18 March at how lucky MV U3A has
the Uniting Church Hall, Taree to launch been since Pam agreed to
Seniors Week. The mayor, Paul Hogan spoke join as Leader of our Silver
of the great work seniors do on a voluntary Tones choir, all of whom
basis for the community. Certificates of would die in the desert for
Appreciation were presented to eight her! Now the wider world
volunteers by the council manager, Gerard outside Taree knows how
Jose. Two members of the U3A were among brilliant she is in her chosen
those honoured. Barbara Moore received her field of music & on Friday
award for her services to the U3A, the Senior 3 May will be publicly
Citizens’ Association and the St. Vincent de acknowledging her wonderful contribution to the
Paul Society. communities in which she has lived & worked.
Ross Wilkinson received his award for his
services to Manning Support Services. For On that day, at Government House, Sydey, she
many years he has taken the elderly shopping will be a member of the group being presented
and to doctors’ appointments. with OAMs. I can’t think of a more deserved
The presentations were preceded by a reward for a person who has given (and still
delicious morning tea provided by the ladies continues to give) so much of herself to benefit
of the Red Dove Cafe. (Photos P16) her fellows. We won’t be there but we’ll all be
Our Congratulations to you both, cheering in front of the tele that night!
Barbara Moore & Ross Wilkinson Well done, Pam!
Looking Ahead
Course Leaders’ Afternoon, 2013 OBE Luncheons
Our Course Leaders’ Afternoon will be held Most members are aware but new ones may
on Sunday 16 June, 1 pm – 3 pm. The not have heard that our Luncheons at the end
purpose of the meeting is twofold: the of Terms 2 & 3 celebrate the perseverance of
Management Committee would like to show those members who, this year have made/will
you how much we appreciate the time and make it to 80 (+) - years that is, not speed in a
effort you give to your groups and we ask 50 zone! You come as our guests on the day
you for your feedback on and suggestions re (Wed 26 June or Mon 16 Sept). You will
any successes, difficulties and bright ideas! receive an invitation but please write “OBE”
Course leaders are the backbone of any U3A! on your Course Selection Form next to Item 2
This Term
We welcome our second book club, Cover to Our Entertainers Reunion in week 2 will
Cover, which will meet every four weeks at give everyone a taste of the antics of our bunch
Manning Uniting Church. This should allow of lunatic but very talented skit creators and
those who could not manage Book Marks’ performers. They had fun, we all had fun!!
Tuesdays to indulge in their passion for not Catch up with them on 16 May!
only reading but discussing various books.
The annual challenge of learning the tactics of
Cryptic Crosswords can infuriate, frustrate Croquet is on again; looks genteel but don’t
and drive you up the wall but when you do be fooled! Brain plus brawn (sort of!) and a
get them “out” what a sense of achievement! great, entertaining way to exercise.
Page 6 Are You Interested?
Photography Club - Maggi Abberley would like to run a weekly activity in which members
would meet together at different venues to practise and extend their skills. The group would
decide what, if any, form of follow up or evaluation would take place. This course is planned for
Term 3. Please answer Q4 on P1 of your Enrolment form.
Writing Your Life - Jacqui Allan has been involved in several U3A & other groups of people
who have wanted to make a permanent record of their own and their predecessors’ life stories or
segments of their life stories. It is an immensely rewarding activity and some of Jacqui’s groups
have published their efforts. This course is planned for Term 3. Please answer Q5 on P1 of
your Enrolment form.
Stretch and Strength Exercise Program - Lynne Barnes has been involved in programs to
promote physical fitness and to enhance your capabilities as age/disability start to creep up on
you! The course will be more strenuous than Gentle Exercise (just a tad or two!) but not over-
taxing! It is planned for Term 3. Please answer Q6 on P1 of your Enrolment.
Visual Arts - Barbara Lieberman will be unable to tutor a group during this term but, in
previous years, groups have met weekly to paint, draw etc in company ie members have a time
set aside to pursue their special artistic interests and can call upon other members in the group
for informal evaluation. This course would run this term (Term 2) on Thursdays (10 am – 1 pm)
See Page 10 for details. Please answer Q7 on P1 of your Enrolment and Item 30 of the
Course Selection forms
Floral Arranging - Maria Ogilvie will show you how to create an eye-catching floral item
using whatever happens to be in the garden (leaves, grasses, the odd flower etc) paired with
unconventional containers as vases. A Vogue look at little or no cost! This one session course is
planned for Term 3. Please answer Q8 on P1 of your Enrolment form.
Looking Ahead
Term 3 looks like being a very busy one with all our regular activities plus the new ones flagged
last year (Eric Richardson’s The history of the Upper Manning; Brian’s Everyone Has a Story)
So do your OS travelling this term so you don’t miss out on something really, really interesting
We have also planned some sessions to familiarise those who wish to or need to (ie everyone)
learn how to use the equipment we have available for our classes:
**the sound system & microphone **the digital projector & hooking it up to a laptop
And for those of you who have an interest in various historical, biographical, geographic or
scientific topics but who have limited access to research and information, we shall have a run-
through of the wonderful, already prepared courses in the NSW Network Resource Library
You will be amazed, impressed & kicking yourselves for not checking it out before!!
D-I-Y Activities
Sat 4, Sun 5 May: Hallidays Point Open Gardens 9 gardens for $10; 6559 2320
13-18 May: Wingham Beef Week Sat 18 May: Port Mac Family History Fair $10 Panthers
26 May: A Slice of Haven Food & Wine Festival Laurieton: 80+ stalls of local food
31 May – 3 June: Bonnie Wingham Scottish Festival
31 May – 2 June: Big Band Blast new annual band festival at Port Macquarie, various venues
Sun 26 May, 23 June The Artist Market in the Vines at Cassegrain Winery, (every 4th Sun)
2 & 6 June: The Nutcracker by Moscow Ballet La Classique: Glasshouse $87 Conc $77
Courses and Activities Term 2, 2013 Page 7
MONDAY
Item 23 Beginners’ Silver Ukulele Strummers (Part 2)
Time: Mon 10 am-12 noon Dates: 6, 13, 20, 27 May; 3, 17 June; No session 10 June
Venue: Church of Christ (Victoria Street, Taree) Contact: Chris Cavanagh 6551 0821
This is the two-term “Kindergarten group” where anyone who doesn’t know a strum from a
pluck learns all the basics. You will learn how to play more chords and stacks more songs,
before graduating to Big School!. You DON’T have to read music to be successful.
Item 24 Social Craft
Time: Mon 1 pm – 3 pm Dates: 6, 13, 20, 27 May; 3, 17 June; No session 10 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Annemarie Heitmann 6552 6985
This course provides a relaxed atmosphere in which enthusiasts are able to work at their
chosen craft, sharing their skills with or learning new ones from their colleagues. And, of
course, they share jokes, gossip, recipes …as well!
Item 25 Spanish Conversation Group
Time: Mon 1 pm – 3 pm Dates: 6, 13, 20, 27 May; 3, 17 June; No session 10 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: John Peters 6553 8345
The emphasis in this course will be on conversation and listening skills. We are fortunate in
having some native speakers drop in on the class regularly now to assist with pronunciation
and our fluency in conversation. Singing will also play an important role in improving our
articulation. New members would need to have some knowledge of Spanish - we would
welcome new members who speak Spanish reasonably (or very!) well and who could
therefore add to our conversational skills.
TUESDAY
Item 11 Gentle Exercise
Time: Tues 9 am – 11 am Dates: 7, 14, 21, 28 May; 4, 11, 18 June
Venue: MV Sailing Club (near KFC) ** Leaders for 7, 14, 21 April
Contact: Julie Frederiksen**6557 0277; Margaret Hoch**6553 Margo Gollan 6551 3197
We all need exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle & combat nasties like heart disease etc.
This course provides a balanced program of activities, suited to our bodies’ needs and able to
be adapted if necessary. Wear loose clothing and flat shoes. BYO cold drink or mug for tea.
Item 5 The Book Marks Book Club
Time: Tues 10.00 am – 12 noon Dates: 30 Apr; 28 May; 25 June
Venue: 2/12 Samantha Close, Taree Contact: Laura Sykes 6552 1680
The Book Marks format of meeting every four weeks through the year has proved
very successful. At each of the 12 meetings for the year, we discuss our chosen
"Book for the Month". Meetings are held in the homes of members who volunteer
– this term, Laura is the “hostess”. Note: Starts in Enrolment Week
See page 11 for details of Cover-to-Cover, our second group which starts this term.
Page 8 TUESDAY cont Item 22 Silver Ukulele Strummers (Continuers) Time: Tues 10.30 am – 12.30 pm Dates: 30 Apr; 7, 14, 21, 28 May; 4, 11, 18 June Venue: Ch of Christ Hall (Victoria St, Taree) Contact: Val Stack 6557 0009 Silver Ukulele Strummers continue to grow in number - they will soon rival the Sydney Symphony Orchestra! Their enthusiasm is unbounded and their many “gigs” all over the place have contributed to their expertise and professionalism. (See Page 7 for Beginners) Item 15 Life on Bathurst Island Time: Tues 1 pm – 3 pm Dates: 21, 28 May Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Jenny Lee 6553 6931 Savour something of what it is (or was) like living and working among the Tiwi people on Bathurst and Melville Islands, north of Darwin, where Jenny was a linguist and Bible translator almost 30 years. See something of the struggle the Tiwi have in coming to terms with living in two cultures, ancient and modern, and the difficulties and the delights of an outsider living and working among them. Item 14 Polymer Clay Jewellery Time: Tues 1 pm – 3 pm Dates: 7, 14, 21, 28 May; 4, 11, 18 June Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Sue Vanderkley 6552 3824 Our new Beginners’ Course gets under way this term. Come along and have fun learning how to make spectacular jewellery and other decorative items from clay “cooked” in your oven - so simple to do, such amazing outcomes! There are starter’s kits @ $18 ea and there will be some costs for clay used during the course. Item 26 Special Skills Time: Tues 1 pm – 2’ish pm Dates: TBC: 21 May; 18 June (or perhaps 14 May/11 June) Venue: Bunnings Contact: Pam Hollebone 6553 9383 Two sessions this term at Bunnings. Sorry about the uncertainty as we go to print - problems at each end of the phone but it will definitely be sorted by Enrolment Day. Aimed for:- 21 May: BBQing with the lovely Tim 18 June: how to use a gerni (high-pressure water) cleaner and other effort-saving electronic devices; what devices are there to make home maintainance easier (carried over from Term 2) Item 12; Bus trip: Item 13 Greenthumbs Gardeners Time: Tues 1 pm – 3 pm Dates: 7, 21 May; 4, 18 June Venue: Various venues Contact: Ann Summerhill 5511 0028 It is nearly time for us to start our fortnightly exploring again. 7 May: 26 Oak Flat Road, Old Bar – the home and nursery of Richard & Robin Davis (suggested by Helen Herkes); as well as their beautiful garden, they also sell plants and craft. Meet at the Taree Information Centre before 12.30 pm. 21 May: (Item 13) bus trip to the Great Lakes Winery in Wootton (organised by Lois). A light lunch will be served of local cheeses, salami, relish, pickles, fresh fruit and more. Meet at the Taree Info Centre before 12 as the bus will leave on the dot of 12 noon. Cost: $25 covers bus and lunch, payable with your Enrolment Form. I am looking forward to catching up with “old” and to meeting “new” Greenthumbs on Enrolment Day or at Old Bar. All Greenthumbs should bring a thermos flask of tea/coffee & a plate of cake etc; hat, suncream and, depending on venue, a fold-up chair should also be in your “kit”. If anyone can suggest a place for us to visit, please let me know. Ann
WEDNESDAY Page 9
Items 28 & 29 Tai Chi
Venue: MV Sailing Club (near KFC) Contact: Maire Barrett 6551 4597; mob 0401 311 585
Dates: Wed 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 May; 5, 12, 19, 26 June
Item 29: 8.30 – 9.30 am: Seniors and Continuing Students
The first half hour will enable those students who wish to keep their skills up in a group but
who have commitments for later classes, to do so. Note: Starts in Enrolment Week
Item 28: 9.30 – 10.30 am: New Beginners (Term 1 and Term 2 intake)
For the first three weeks of Term 2, additional new beginners will be accepted into the class.
We progress slowly but add a little more each week so that you learn in your own time at your
pace. Wear comfortable clothing and light, flat footwear or bring an old pair of socks.
BYO water/juice. Note: Starts in Enrolment Week
Item 18 Philosophy Discussion Group
Time: Wed 10 am – 12 noon Dates: 8, 15, 22, 29 May; 5, 12, 19 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Brian Pope 6551 6929
This, one of our original courses, has always maintained its popularity by evolving to suit the
interests of group members and by using materials from sources such as “The Latest Answers
to the Oldest Questions” to expand the discussion opportunities. During Term 1 Brian copied
some topics from “The New Scientist”. These proved so popular that no-one even noticed
that he was away for a month!! Thanks to Elizabeth, Sandra and Pam who held the fort and
to Robyn for the photocopying. New members, new voices are always welcome in the group.
Item 7 Croquet for Beginners
Back Time: Wed 11 am- 1 pm Dates: 15, 22, 29 May; 5, 12, 19 June. No session 8 May
Venue: Croquet Club, Taree (cnr Florence & Albert Streets) Contact: Jan Sage 6556 3409
For healthy, non-contact exercise in the fresh air with a real mental challenge (the tactics are
quite diabolical!), you can’t go past Croquet - on the surface it appears to be so genteel and
olde worlde but in reality your opponents have murderous thoughts in their hearts - and it’s
all great fun!! The basic skills and introductory game of Golf Croquet will be taught.
Cost: $36 (green fees). Wear flat shoes; all equipment supplied. Take water/juice or a mug
for coffee/tea. Note: Starts in Week 2
Item 19 Play Reading
Time: Wed 1 pm – 3 pm Dates: 8, 15, 22, 29 May; 5, 12, 19 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Christine Ritchie 6557 8482
Members who enjoy reading and discussing plays of all genres - drama, comedy, tragedy - by
playwrights from around the world, come together to read aloud. You do not have to act or
memorise lines - if you do not want to read, you can come and listen to others. Just enjoy!
Item 21 Silver Tones Choir
Time: Wed 1 pm – 3.30 pm Dates: 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 May; 5, 12, 19 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Chatham Contact: Pam Archer 6552 4694
You don’t need to have a classically trained singing voice, just the desire to sing! Pam is able
to perform miracles with our diverse group, all of whom are certainly enjoying their weekly
sessions. Although we are pleased with the number who have joined, especially of men,
there is always room for more. Note: Starts in Enrolment week
Page 10 THURSDAY
Item 10 Folk Dancing - Village Circle Dances
Time: Thurs 9.30 am – 11.30 am Dates: 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 May; 6, 13, 20 June
Venue: MV Sailing Club (near KFC) Contact: Sandra Bassetti 6552 5142
Through the ages people have come together to dance & enjoy each other’s company. The
dances often reflect a culture’s history and customs: dances to celebrate the seasons, special
days, harvests, weddings, religious days, market days … almost anything to do with village
life. Musicians played their treasured instruments, home-made food was laid out and all ,
young & old, danced together. It created a strong sense of family & community. Performed
mainly in a circle, it allows dancers to join in or drop out of the circle at will and everyone
can move at their own pace. Do come along and join us. NOTE starts in Enrolment Week.
Item 8 Cryptic Crossword Puzzles
(How to save your brain and lose your sanity!)
New Time: Thurs 10 am – 12 noon Dates: 9, 16, 23, 30 May; 6, 13, 20 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Ern Hollebone 6553 9383
This term Ern shows you how to play with words by introducing you to the delights and
torments of the cryptic crossword puzzle. All the experts maintain that Alzheimers and other
forms of diminishing mental strength can be held at bay by a cryptic crossword as part of the
breakfast routine and the more you can cram into the day, the better. This course is designed
for beginners, the uninitiated or those of you who have torn out hanks of hair trying to fathom
the meaning of a bunch of seemingly random “verbal bits” which are on the same page as the
“Quickie” that you sail smugly through in ten minutes or less. Be challenged, learn how to
triumph over the SMH (mostly), The Sunday Times (pretty regularly) and DA on Friday in
the SMH (almost never but keep trying - the rare victory is the sweetest of all!)
Note: Cost $15 includes folder of notes.
Item 30 Visual Arts
Time: Thurs 10 am – 1 pm Dates: 9, 16, 23, 30 May; 6, 13, 20 June
Venue: Chatham Uniting Church Hall Contact: To be decided
Barbara Lieberman will be unable to tutor a group during this term but, in previous years,
groups have met weekly to paint, draw etc in company ie members have a time set aside to
pursue their special artistic interests and can call upon other members in the group for
informal evaluation. Minimum number: 8 Also answer Q7 on P1 of your Enrolment form.
Item 9 “Entertainers” Class Reunion Date: 16 May
Time: Thurs 12.30 pm – 2.30 pm Venue: Uniting Church, Taree
Not just for the past performers - all members are welcome to join in for a laugh and a chat.
Bring a cup, a friend, a plate of shareable food and 10 – 12 photos (if you have them). Tea,
coffee and fruit punch provided. Bring your own laughing gear and a good sense of humour.
Wear a favourite dress-up outfit or, at least a funny hat! Come and
share a laugh with us [or at us! If you dare!] Maggi has put together a
wonderful power-point presentation which covers all the highlights (and
some lowlights!) of our illustrious career.
RSVP (for catering)
to Errol on 6550 0616
Memory or Helen at helenheathwood@westnet.com.au
Lane and
Also Item 9 on your Course Selection form Goodness, gracious me!
Errol and Helen LTHURSDAY cont Page 11
Item 6 Cover-to-Cover Book Club
New Time: Thurs 1 pm-3 pm Dates: 2, 30 May; 27 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Judith Byrne 6551 0315
In response to your suggestions, our second book club is taking off this term! If you are
interested in or passionate about books covering all sorts of subjects, come along to our new
group (or to the Tuesday morning Book Marks group: See Page 7) and indulge!! You can
join both groups if you enjoy a challenge! Cover2Cover (catchy, eh!) will be meeting at the
Uniting Church in Albert Street.
Item 4 Art in the Gallery
Time: Thurs 1 pm –2 pm’ish Date: 13 June
Venue: MR Art Gallery (Macquarie Street) Contact: Lois Bedggood 6557 0667
Due to the Frank Hurley exhibition running until 2nd June, which we all thoroughly enjoyed
on the 14th March, there will be no “Art-in-the-Gallery” for May.
13th June – Alex Weltlinger photographic exhibition. Alex is a director as well as a
photographer based in Sydney. He started out studying architecture but soon realized that
his passion was in photography, so taught himself not only photographic skills but the
philosophy and meaning of what a photograph is. Should be fascinating.
This exhibition is coupled with Prue Sailer whose study of birds’ eyes emphasises her skill
in depicting the texture of feathers. Sue’s perspective is of an artist investigating and
interpreting the capabilities of animal vision. While visual art traditionally represents the
world from a human perspective, her approach has been reversed to illustrate the varied views
of the world through the eyes of selected animal species.
This will be our only get together for art lovers for the term so, weather permitting, we may
repeat the afternoon tea program to finish the session. So crack out your “woollies” and see
you all on 13th June, but if you can’t make it, please ‘phone me on 6557 0667. Lois
FRIDAY
Item 17 Open Forum
Time: Fri 10 am – 12 noon Dates: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 May; 7, 14, 21 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Julie Frederiksen 6557 0277
Our topical discussion group continues to subject a variety of current affairs and “questions of
a higher morality” to close scrutiny and spirited disection. Topics are suggested by members
of the group. New members are greeted with enthusiasm!! NOTE Starts in Enrolment Week
Item 16 Modified Line Dancing
Time: 10 am – 11.30 am Dates: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 May; 7, 14, 21 June
Venue: MV Sailing Club, Taree (near KFC) Contact: Joy Clancy 6552 1891
Line Dancing is a great way of getting exercise, dancing (but without having to worry about
bringing a partner) and socialising. Our No 1 Rule: “No mistakes, only variations” means that
anyone is capable of dancing with us. Wear comfortable clothing, flat shoes; bring your own
mug for refreshments. Note Starts in Enrolment WeekPage 12 FRIDAY cont
Item 27 Table Games & Mahjong
Time: Fri 12.30 pm – 3.30 pm Dates: 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 May; 7, 14, 21 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Margaret Savage 6551 4991
Mah Jong and Scrabble are still most popular but other board games get a run too. Note that
500 players also have their own “spot” on Saturday afternoons (see below for details).
The group continues during the break between terms with any other members looking for
something to do, welcome to join in. (Holiday fee $3 per week - note increase)
Traditional Scrabble
Our established “Scrabblers” have devised their own set of variations on the basic game; for
those of you who prefer to follow the traditional rules and regulations, there will be tables for
Traditionalists (“Trads”) as well as tables for MV Variationalists (“Mods”)
Item 2 Not A Cloud In The Sky
Time: Fri 4 pm – 6 pm Dates: 10, 17, 24, 31 May; 7, 14, 21 June
Venue: Taree Community College, (Macquarie St, Taree) Contact: Lloyd Seaton 6557 0187
Microsoft and Intel used to call the shots in the computer game but they took their eye off the
ball and are now playing catch-up. Today, the world's consumer electronics, communications
and media giants have joined with upstarts like Google and Facebook to muscle into the
action. Personal computers have been reduced to little more than a connection device and
Windows are primarily a means of access to "the cloud" that is charged with a multitude of
Internet applications. Our class may not provide you with a full understanding but we do
intend to build your confidence in using the Internet to prepare and exchange emails and to
share photos and documents with your family, friends and associates. You don't need a
computer, netbook, smart phone or tablet to attend but the class is intended to be most helpful
to users of such devices, especially those with an Internet connection at home or elsewhere.
$25 fee (per computer) covers use of Taree Community College facilities and refreshments.
SATURDAY
Item 20 Sat’die Arvo Card Sharps
Time: Fri 12.30 pm – 3 pm Dates: 4, 11, 18, 25 May; 1, 8, 15, 22 June
Venue: Uniting Church, Taree Contact: Margaret Sparkes-Carroll 6552 3194
For enthusiasts of the card game Five Hundred. Experienced and aspiring players have the
opportunity to hone their skills in bidding, playing “to their cards”, maybe with the odd bit of
trumping or, the ultimate, a successful lay-down misère! New players and learners are
welcome. Note: Starts in Enrolment Week; Note: Extra 30 minutes; earlier start.
How My Cat “Helps”with the Newsletter on a Sat’die Arvo
If one of your humans is engaged in some close activity stay with her. This is called "helping"
otherwise known as "hampering." For paperwork, lie on the work in the most appropriate
manner to obscure the maximum amount. Pretend to doze but every so
often reach out and slap a pencil or pen. Sit on the paperwork they are
working on. Roll around on the papers, scattering them to the best of
your ability. After being removed for the second time, push pencils,
pens and erasers off the table, one at a time. If she is using a computer,
make sure you purr lovingly and sit in front of the screen or walk along
the cccccccccmmmm keyboard - your human will love it - not! GusSpecial and Regular Happenings Page 13
Item 3 End-of-Term Luncheon
Time: 11.30 am (for 12 noon) Date: Wednesday 26 June
Venue: Sailo’s Restaurant (Macquarie Street, Taree) Contact: Pam Hollebone 6553 9383
Luncheons for Terms 2 and 3 will acknowledge the achievement of those who have “hung on
in there” to reach the revered four-score birthday milestone! So come along, celebrate with
them and enjoy the conviviality and good food that characterise our luncheons. It’s a great
way to meet new friends as well! Menu choices will be fish, chicken alfredo, lamb shank and
vegetarian pasta. Please indicate your choice on Page 1, Q2 of your Enrolment Form
Sunday Lunch Club
Time: 12 noon Dates: 28 Apr; 26 May; 30 June; 28 July
Venues: see below Contact: Helen and Errol Heathwood 6550 0616
A great chance to try out the different eateries in our area (and beyond, sometimes) with
convivial company. Each venue is selected by of one of the Members who wish to book a
seat, should contact the organiser at the BEGINNING of the month concerned and notify any
cancellations ASAP to avoid giving grief to the restaurateur.
28 April: Black Head Bowling Club Kerry 6551 6816
(Main Street, Hallidays Point)
26 May: The Other Side Jan and Gre 6551 0638
(Moto Road, Ghinni Ghinni)
30 June: The Sicilian Margaret 6551 4145
(Victoria Street, Taree)
28 July: Bean Bar Helen and Errol 6550 0616
(Pulteney Street, Taree
Excursions
Item 31 Day Trip 1: Gloucester: Centenary of Rail Celebrations
Date: Saturday 18 May Contact: Pam Hollebone 6553 9383
Pick-up: Taree Info: 8 am; Wingham: 8.30 am Return: leave Gloucester 4 pm
Gloucester sure knows how to celebrate!! Activities include
• 10am - Vintage Street Parade (featuring 30 piece Police Brass Band)
• 12 noon - Official Dedication Ceremony with George Souris at the Railway Station
• Steam Train Rides
• International Trainspotting Photographic Competition from the Powerhouse Museum
(Gloucester Gallery, Denison St - all week) • Model Railway Display (Rec. Centre)
• You-Drive Model Railway (Rec. Centre) • Memorabilia Display (Rec. Centre)
• Nostalgic Tea Rooms (Rec. Centre) • Market Stalls & Souvenirs (Rec. Centre)
• Fashion Parade - Kids & Adults clothes 1900 to 1950 (Rec. Centre)
Cost: $30 (covers bus only) Note: Change in order of bus pick-up & return
Item 32 Day Trip 2: Bago: Jazz in the Vineyards
Date: Sunday 9 June Contact: Pam Hollebone 6553 9383
Pick-up: Taree Info: 8.45 am; Wingham: 9.15 am Return: leave Bago 3 pm
Four hours of music from the Jordan Jive Jazz and Blues Band in the grounds of Bago
Vineyard. And you can try your skills in the Bago Maze. And you can indulge yourself
gastronomically in wine, boutique beer and local cheeses or BYO your own food (not booze!)
Enjoy a relaxing day in a beautiful venue! Cost: $30 (covers bus and entry)
Note: Change in order of bus pick-up & returnPage 14 Theatre Parties
All theatre party enquiries to Pam Hollebone 6553 9383
Venue: Manning Entertainment Centre except TT1 (Upper Lansdowne Hall)
Tickets for each MEC production will be held at the desk for you to collect -
ask for U3A and your name(s).
Make sure that you arrive at the theatre 15-30 minutes before commencement time.
Item 33 Theatre Trip 1 Upper Lansdowne Players Cost: $20
th
Date: Sunday 5 May Ring to book seats ASAP Time: 2.30 for 3 pm
The usual sumptuous afternoon tea and two one-act plays to tickle your fancy this season:
A Mad Breakfast is set in Mrs Simpkin’s 1940’s boarding house where things get a little
crazier than usual when pranksters Mr Jones and Miss Brown tell each of the guests that Mr
Long, a wealthy visitor, is especially interested in their hobbies while Mr Long is told that the
house is an insane asylum. This is considered one of the best one-act farces ever written!
Faux Pa Mild-mannered suburbanite Rob Clark is shocked when Eugene, an unlikely angel,
tells him that he is going to have a baby. Rob and his wife, Cindy, have wanted a child, but
they never expected Rob to be the one to get pregnant! Their family physician, Doc Mitchell,
confirms the pregnancy, but Dr. Stern, a cynical psychologist, says everyone is nuts! By the
time Eugene finally realizes he has made a mistake, everyone is actually disappointed! But…
Item 34 Theatre Trip 2 Tommy Fleming in Concert Cost: $47
Date: Wednesday 8 May Time: 8 pm
Tommy Fleming has many times been described as ‘The Voice of Ireland’; he is one of
their top entertainers whose hugely successful career spans 20 years, with over 32 platinum
albums under his belt. Tommy brings his own beautiful interpretation of contemporary &
classic songs such as 'Bridge Over Troubled Water', 'The Isle of Innisfree', 'Something
Inside So Strong' and also "the best version of Danny Boy - Bar None!" (Eric Clapton) &
many others. He returns in 2013 to tour Australia for the third time. “I love coming to
Australia. I can’t wait to return because I love the people & the easy going way they live
their lives & of course the weather. It really feels like my home away from home.
2012 was a year Tommy Fleming describes as the toughest year of his and his family’s life:
in March both his parents unexpectedly died within hours of each other. In the months that
followed Tommy took a long break from his career and evaluated his life, his music and
what steps he needed to take, and now returns to his more traditional folk roots releasing a
collection of emotional, heart-wrenching songs which make up his new album Begin.
A Tommy Fleming concert is a musical experience not to be missed. He has a universal
appeal to all ages and backgrounds with a fan base that is growing stronger year by year.
Theatre Trip 3 Tom Burlinson - Frank, A Life in Song
Item 35: TT3A (2 pm) or Item 36: TT3B (8 pm) Cost: Matinee: $35; 8 pm:$40
Date: Saturday 8 June (Queen’s Birthday weekend) Time: 2 pm or 8 pm
Master storyteller and vocalist, Tom Burlinson, stars in this swinging, joyous celebration of
the music and career of the late, great Ol’ Blue Eyes. Critics around the world agree that
Tom Burlinson has the knack of reproducing the unmistakable timbre and gestures that were
trademarks of the Sinatra style. In this two hour show, Tom croons his way through around
30 of the most popular classics of the past 60 years, by composers such as Cole Porter,
Rodgers and Hart, and Cahn and Van Heusen. The songlist includes Come Fly With Me,
I’ve Got You Under My Skin, The Lady is a Tramp, Mack the Knife, My Way, That’s Life and
New York, New York, to name just a few. NOTE: Price differencesTheatre Parties cont Page 15 Item 367 Theatre Trip 4 Bruce Mathiske in Concert Cost: $34 Date: Saturday 15 June Time: 8 pm Bruce has travelled the world, most recently as the “Rhythm Hunter” making music documentaries. It’s through these travels that he has found the diverse colours of music and rhythms from all over the globe and fused them into a unique style that is all his own. You will be taken on a journey with infectious rhythms and evocative textures from far flung corners of his guitar. In concert his engaging persona combined with superb musicianship and the ability to play bass, rhythm and melody simultaneously, leaves audiences spellbound. Marvel at the speed of his playing and see how effortlessly he embraces smooth Latin sounds and the richness of Spain and Mexico. “Mathiske is an authentic guitar virtuoso who is as comfortable playing rock and jazz as he is nodding towards flamenco and classical. Mathiske is quite simply, a great guitar player.” (Bruce Elder - Sydney Morning Herald) Theatre Trip 5 Art Cost: $37 Item 38: TT5A (8 pm) or Item 39: TT5B (1 pm) Date: Thursday 20 June at 8 pm OR Friday 21 June at 1 pm The comedy, Art, by Yasmina Reza is set in Paris; the story revolves around three friends— Serge, Marc and Yvan—who find their previously solid 15-year friendship on shaky ground when Serge buys an expensive painting. The canvas is white, with a few white lines. Serge is proud of his acquisition and fully expects the approval of his friends. Marc describes it as "a piece of white shit," but is it the painting that offends him or the independence-of-thought that the purchase reveals in Serge? For the insecure Yvan, their friendship is his sanctuary but his attempts at peace-making backfire and his vacillations fuel the blazing row. Lines are drawn and they square off over the canvas, using it as an excuse to relentlessly batter one another over various failures. As their arguments become less theoretical and more personal, they border on destroying their friendship. The play has won several awards, including Tony Awards for best actor and best play and Laurence Olivier Award for best play. Theatre Trip 6 Noel and Gertie Cost: $36 Item 40: TT6A (2 pm) or Item 41: TT6B (8 pm) Date: Saturday 20 July( NOTE: enrolment week of Term 3) Time: 2 pm OR 8 pm Noel Coward and Gertrude Lawrence formed a legendary on and off stage partnership. They looked rich, they were elegant, they sang, they danced, they made jokes through clenched cigarette holders. They were impeccable. Noel Coward had a polished witticism for every occasion. To many he is known as a playwright, creating such classics as Private Lives, Present Laughter, Blithe Spirit and Hay Fever, and to others as the composer of timeless songs such as Mad About the Boy, I'll See You Again, and Mad Dogs and Englishmen. His range was extraordinary, extending from the bawdy to the sublime, from the witty to the achingly heartfelt and, once heard, many of his melodies are never forgotten. He was also an actor, director, producer, screenwriter, novelist, poet, cabaret artist, a skilful celebrity and a warm and enduring friend. Gertrude Lawrence was a celebrated actress who triumphed on stage in the world premiere productions of Lady in the Dark and The King and I. Together, they formed a remarkable team and their friendship became showbusiness legend. Noel and Gertie is highly entertaining, strangely familiar and surprisingly touching. If you love musical theatre, celebrity, gossip, glamour, the plays of Noel Coward; if you loved shows like Downton Abbey, The Great Gatsby, Pride and Prejudice, Poirot, or Mary Poppins, then you'll love Noel and Gertie - a glittering evening of delight, wit, song and dance. 'Light, sophisticated entertainment which is sparkling, brilliant and beguiling.' The Sunday Times
Our Pictorial Round-up 6 1
Our photos show
At the Seniors’ Week Launch) (See Page 5):
1)Barbara receiving her award from Mayor Paul
Hogan and GTCC GM Gerard Jose
3) Ross receiving his award from Mayor Paul Hogan and GTCC
GM Gerard Jose
4): Patricia, Maire, Barbara, Anne, Helen.
2) Innes House Ruins Day Trip group with NPWS Rangers 7
5) Goulburn’s Big Merino in his woollen scarf to celebrate the city’s 6
150th anniversary. Don’t you just love him!! (See Page 4)
6) Eastlakes U3A tote bag (See Page 3 )
7) Elwyn & Daisy Harries (all the way from Bunbury, WA!!) with
Noelene Brown at the NSW Network Conference, Goulburn (Page 4
2
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