Sydney u3a Course Book Semester 1 2025

SYDNEY u3a INC. learn laugh live

A warm welcome is extended to anyone, regardless of age or experience, who would enjoy the friendly and informal environment of following their passion or interest at any of our courses.

Sydney u3a is a not-for-profit organisation whose members are no longer in full employment and join to share the fun and friendship of like-minded people who want to continue their interests or explore new creative, educational, and social opportunities at local venues throughout the Sydney region.

There are no course entrance requirements, no exams and no awards given. All course presenters are volunteers who share the gems of their profession and interests. Choose from over 400 face-to-face and zoom courses, plus events that cover a wide variety of topics.

7 REGIONS

CITY AND Ashfield, Burwood, City, INNER WEST Glebe, Leichhardt, Revesby, Rozelle, Strathfield

EASTERN Bondi, Maroubra, Paddington, Randwick, Waverley, Woollahra

ENDEAVOUR Cronulla, Gymea, Hurstville, Kogarah, Miranda, Oatley, Sans Souci, Sutherland, Yowie Bay

GREATER WESTERN Blacktown, Castle Hill, Hills District, Parramatta, Cumberland

HARBOURSIDE Castle Cove, Chatswood, NORTH Greenwich, Hunters Hill, Lane Cove, Mosman, McMahons Point, Roseville

NORTHERN Avalon, Balgowlah, Belrose, BEACHES Collaroy, Forestville, Frenchs Forest, Mona Vale, Narrabeen, Newport, North Curl Curl, Warriewood

UPPER NORTH Berowra, Epping, Gordon, Hornsby, Killara, Lindfield, Pennant Hills, Pymble, St Ives, Turramurra, Wahroonga, Waitara.

General enquiries

Central Office Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts 280 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW

Monday to Friday 10:00 - 1:00 Ph: 02 9267 9056 or email: mail@sydneyu3a.org Web: www.sydneyu3a.org

Specific enquiries

CONTENTS

Related to regional activities and/or courses can be made to Regional Presidents or Regional Course Coordinators listed in this book.

This Course Book provides details of the wide variety of courses, presentations, events, and other information, that are available to all Sydney u3a members. Courses are offered in different ways; some are single presentations, others go for several weeks or through the entire semester.

Thank you to the Regional Course Coordinators and their teams, for compiling the information for this book; to the editor Keith Crowe, to 121 Creative for the design & layout and to Kwik Kopy Circular Quay for the printing.

COURSE LISTING ORDER

Events are listed first, followed by courses provided by each region. Within a region venues are listed in alphabetical order, and courses for each venue are in start date order. Then all Zoom courses are listed in start date order.

BOOKING A COURSE

The starting point to book a course is included in each course listing. It will either be a person to contact, or reference to a website, where you can book online. In order to book and attend a course, please note the following:

• Contact the person whose name/email/phone number is given as the booking secretary, OR, go to the website indicated in the listing

• If there is a problem with this - contact the venue or course coordinator

• Provide your name, membership number (see note below) and phone number, if booking by email or phone

• Use the MyU3A booking facility - where indicated - membership number and password are required

• Some courses have a maximum number of attendees, which will be indicated in brackets after the course or event; e.g. (max 10). If you are unable to attend a course after you have booked, please notify the booking secretary, or cancel online - as there can be waiting lists

• Wear your membership badge at all times for face to face meetings.

Note:

If you are not a member, you may book a course, and then attend up to two sessions, depending on availability, before you need to become a member.

INSURANCE

Sydney u3a Inc. has public liability insurance to cover against possible damage or injury to persons or property arising from proven negligence by any member of Sydney u3a or its invitees at the site on which the activity occurs, except in the case of water or aircraft activity.

Members participating in a course that has a physical component, such as bush walking, table tennis or exercise classes, are required to sign a form acknowledging that the members understand the insurance cover, before being accepted into one of these courses.

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

President Jennifer Waldron president.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

VP Education Gavin Crawford vpeducation.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

VP Public Relations Michael Parkinson vppr.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

Treasurer Patrick McGovern sydu3a.treasurer@gmail.com

Secretary Lynda Cronshaw secretary.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

Admin Manager Marilyn Noonan mgrad.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

REGIONAL PRESIDENTS

City and Inner West

Vicki Moss vicki@mcglashan.com.au

Eastern David Rosenwax drosenwax@bigpond.com

Endeavour Southern Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Greater Western Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net

Harbourside North Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com

Northern Beaches

Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com

Upper North Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Welcome to all u3a members to our first semester for 2025. It is always with anticipation that we open the new course book to see what awaits and are happy to be providing lots of events and compelling classes to keep us busy for the next six months.

Last year we took a very big step and committed to a new computer system. Since this time those of our members involved in this project have been working non stop (except those who dared take some time out for holidays etc!) and our new website is looking much more up to date,

Fortunately we have been able to reconfigure our offices so that we have a training room for the office staff, and we have members who are happy to be involved in learning the new system. However, it turns out that 10 year old computers don’t work too well on the new system so we have invested in some modern equipment - a joy for our admin staff. It took us some time to find an easy to navigate website, which will make the whole process easier, both for new members to join, and for renewals payments etc. We haven’t forgotten that for some of us, using computers is daunting, and for these members we will always be able to provide assistance.

You can imagine that with all this going on last year was very busy. Lynda Cronshaw and I were lucky to attend the NSW Network U3A AGM held this year in Eastlakes. It was very interesting to talk to u3a members around the state - some of them having as few as 40 members, and others up to 5000. In the evening there was various entertainment including an orchestra, choir and dancing, all by u3a members. At the conclusion of the AGM it became apparent to us that the regional areas are often better treated by local councils eg. a house provided at no cost, grants to keep the property in good order etc. It would be very difficult for Sydney u3as to be as fortunate.

In talking to a group of visitors we learnt that there is an International Association of the University of the Third Age (AIUTA). We knew that u3a exists in other countries, but had no idea how far. It turns out there are u3as in many countries and some of them are really surprising. To name a few - China, Tunisia, Italy, India, Brazil, Mongolia, Cuba. We have always known that u3a commenced in France, and spread from there but just how far it has spread was a complete surprise.

At this time I would like to introduce you to one of our outstanding members, Terry Campbell from Endeavour Region. Terry has been a member for 34 years and is in the top five of Sydney u3a’s longest-standing members. I’d like to share with everyone his wonderful attitude to life and u3a. In Terry’s own words:

“u3a is like standing outside a cafe and looking at the menu. You don’t know what the food is like until you go in and try”.

Thank you Terry. These are words which encourage all of us to enjoy all we have to offer in u3a, and will keep on doing so in the coming year.

Jennifer Waldron, President, Sydney u3a

SYDNEY U3A INCORPORATED

Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney. Phone: 9267 9056

Email: mail@sydneyu3a.org ABN 32 251 810 797

NOTICE OF THE 37th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Notice is hereby given that the 37th Annual General Meeting of members of Sydney U3A Incorporated will be held:

Date: Wednesday, 26th March 2025

Time: 10.30am (tea & coffee from 10.00am)

Place: Henry Carmichael Theatre, Sydney Mechanic’s School of Arts, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney

Guest Speaker: TBA

Election of Office Bearers

Financial members of Sydney U3A are eligible for nomination and election. Nominations are now called for the positions of:

President

Vice President (Education)

Vice President (Public Relations)

Treasurer

Secretary

IT Manager

Administration Manager

Nominations close 7 days prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting. A nomination form is available on page 66 at the back of this course book.

The following members are eligible for re-election and can be nominated for their current office or another office.

Treasurer: Patrick McGovern

IT Manager: Mark Harper

Administration Manager: Marilyn Noonan

Nominations for all positions are to be received by the Secretary (email secretary.sydneyu3a@gmail.com) by 9am, Wednesday, 19th March 2025.

EVENTS

LITERARY FESTIVAL 2025 (max

80)

Organised by Greater West Region 12 to 14 February 2025

Whodunit! Crime Fiction Around the World

The 18th Literary Festival in the historic Carrington Hotel in Katoomba 12 – 14 February 2025 is on international crime stories - suspense, dark twists, complex international dynamics and even some humour as our speakers tease you with crime stories from across our world. Three days of fun and fabulous meals including wine, pe-dinner party on Thursday evening, and some intriguing insights into the writing of crime fiction.

NOTE: The Literary Festival is fully booked. Still interested?

Contact the Delegate Coordinator, Sue, on gwr1u3a@gmail.com to be put on the WAIT LIST

Full details for this Literary Festival are available on the Sydney u3a website under Events.

VISIT THE SYDNEY TRAMWAY MUSEUM, LOFTUS

Organised by Ron Besdansky Harbourside North Region Sunday 23 February

Meet at Central Station at 10:00 (final details available when booking)

If you are interested in this event, it is highly recommended that you book for Ron’s presentation “A brief history of Sydney tramways” in Chatswood on 11 February.

Using Opal cards, we will travel for about 40 minutes by train (or train replacement bus) to Loftus Station, adjacent to the museum. Once there, Ron will provide commentary and background information about the history of the museum and the trams. The museum will be operating a number of Sydney trams of the various types that were illustrated in the presentation on 11 February. Rides will be available towards Sutherland and into the Royal National Park, along the former railway line. There are two display halls containing trams from Sydney, interstate and overseas, with maps, photos and displays of preserved equipment. A book and souvenir shop is located on site, and there may be a “sausage sizzle” run by local scouts.

For those wanting to drive to the museum, access is from Old Princes Highway, via the centre of Sutherland. Ron will suggest meeting arrangements when booking.

Cost: Admission to the museum is $20 for adults and $15 for seniors and includes unlimited tram rides and access to the displays.

Bookings: Ron Besdansky ronshistorytalks@gmail.com (preferred) 0417 671 555

2025 HOLIDAY: ORANGE & CENTRAL TABLELANDS (max 48)

Organised by Diana Pine Greater West Region 11 March to 16 March 2025

NOTE: This Tour is fully booked but, if interested in this holiday, contact Diana on 48613721 to get on the WAIT LIST Details and itinerary for this holiday are available on the Sydney u3a website under Events

People already booked on this holiday please note: Balance must be paid into the Greater West Bank account by Tuesday, 21 January 2025.

GUIDED TOUR OF HEART RESEARCH INSTITUTE (max 20)

Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Meet at 7 Eliza Street, Newtown at 9.15 sharp

Will be held on Thursday 27 March

The Heart Research Institute (HRI) is an internationally recognised medical research institute that performs groundbreaking cardiovascular research. On this tour we’ll have a 30-minute presentation about cardiovascular disease and then take a tour of the laboratories.

Optional pub lunch afterwards.

Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp Monday 17 March. First come, first served, with priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

PADDINGTON ART CRAWL (max 15)

Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Meet at the bus stop near the corner of Oxford and William Streets, Paddington at 10am

Will be held on Thursday 3 April

Paddington is a lively arts precinct, showcasing a wide range of creative talents. Come and enjoy some of the many studios and galleries, as well as Sydney’s most beautiful butchery. Optional coffee/lunch afterwards at local cafe.

Requirements: water, reasonable fitness, sturdy shoes, weather protection.

Bus routes 333, 352, 440.

Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 24 March. First come, first served, with priority given to participants who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

DEVONSHIRE TEA AND GUIDED TOUR OF BELLA VISTA FARM

(max 20)

Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Elizabeth MacArthur Drive, Bella Vista

Will be held on: Tuesday 15 April from 9:30

Established in the late 1700s, the complex features a two-storey homestead, a driveway lined with bunya pines, and various farm outbuildings set on a prominent hilltop. Enjoy a lovely Devonshire tea at the homestead. Friends of Bella Vista Farm Park will open up the Trash & Treasure stall, so bring enough cash. Optional charcoal chicken lunch afterwards at Norwest before returning by Metro to Central via Chatswood.

Meet on Platform 26, Central Station at 9am sharp for Metro to Norwest Station. Bus 664 departing at 10:06 from Norwest Station to venue. Arrive 10.11. Ample parking on site.

Requirements: weather protection, sensible footwear and bottled water. Participants need to be reasonably fit, as there are stairs and uneven surfaces unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues.

Cost: $15 per person for group of 15; $22.50 per person if fewer than 15 people. Cash payable on the day.

Bookings essential and only from 9am Monday sharp on Monday 31 March. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

HIGH ON HAMOND HILL - LOCAL HISTORY TOUR OF LEICHHARDT EAST (max 15)

Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Meet at 9:30 at the entrance to the Italian Forum at 23 Norton Street, Leichhardt. Bus routes 438, 440, 445. Will be held on: Tuesday 23 April from 9:30

One of the earliest land grants in the Leichhardt area was to John White, who named his land Hamond Hill, in recognition of the patron who had secured him the appointment as Surgeon General to the First Fleet. Mr White was an excellent physician, a keen naturalist and an accomplished flirt. Come along and explore some of the local features and creatures associated with Mr White. Along the way we’ll have a chance to discover how the suburb got its name, and to admire one of Australia’s only engineering landmarks to enjoy the attention of a Royal Commission. Optional coffee/lunch afterwards.

Requirements: reasonable fitness, comfortable shoes, weather protection.

Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 7 April. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

VICTORIA BARRACKS: GUIDED TOUR OF BARRACKS AND VISIT TO ARMY MUSEUM (max 15)

Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Meet at Corner of Oxford Street and Greens Road, Paddington at 9:15. Bus routes 333, 352, 440. Will be held on: Thursday 8 May at 9:15

Designed by Lt Col George Barney, Victoria Barracks is one of the best-known examples of military architecture in Australia. Locally quarried sandstone was used in the construction of this Regency-style building. Built between 1841 and 1849, the barracks were occupied by British troops until 1870, when it was taken over by the NSW colonial forces. Victoria Barracks has had several uses since then, and nowadays is home to the headquarters of Forces Command. The Army Museum, housed in the original 25-cell District Military Prison, features historical army uniforms and a variety of military medals. Perhaps we’ll encounter the ghost of Charlie the Redcoat, who reputedly still haunts the old prison.

Requirements: hat, sensible footwear, bottled water. Participants need to be reasonably fit, as there are stairs and uneven surfaces unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues.

Cost: $5 for entry to Museum, payable on the day. Optional lunch afterwards at nearby café.

Important: this site is a working military establishment, and Defence requires a list of names and telephone numbers for all participants. In addition, it is mandatory for each participant to show physical photo ID (i.e. no electronic ID on smartphone) - no photo ID, no entry.

Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 14 April. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

EVENTS

EXPLORING THE ELSWICK ESTATE: LOCAL HISTORY TOUR OF LEICHHARDT WEST (max

15)

Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Meet at 9:30 at the entrance to the Italian Forum at 23 Norton Street, Leichhardt. Bus routes 438, 440, 445. Will be held on: Tuesday 20 May from 9:30

James Norton was the squire of the grandest manor in west Leichhardt: the Elswick Estate. It boasted orchards, eel ponds and peacocks, and even had unrestricted water access. A noted pamphleteer and prominent public figure in mid-19th century Sydney, Mr Norton lent his name to Leichhardt’s famous cappuccino strip. As one of Australia’s first solicitors, he had some important clients, one of whom had a connection with a notorious ghost.

Optional coffee/lunch afterwards.

Requirements: reasonable fitness, comfortable shoes, weather protection.

Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 5 May. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

WALKING TOUR OF DARLING HARBOUR – BUILDING A FREEWAY ACROSS SYDNEY’S EARLY INDUSTRIAL & TRANSPORT HUB (max

Organised by Max & Anna Underhill Harbourside North Region

Walk 1: Thursday 13 February Walk 2: Thursday 22 May

This walk is only for those members who have attended the talk in the City Office on 6 February or at Mosman Seniors Centre on 21 May. Meet at 9:30 am for a 9:45am start outside Wynyard Station Exit 4 Barangaroo

16)

At Wynyard station, once you exit the gates head for Exit 4, go down the escalator/steps, along the tunnel and back up to street level where we will meet. If you arrive by bus, make your way to the Wynyard Exit 4 to Barangaroo.

To “save Glebe”, the North Western Freeway was truncated becoming the “Darling Harbour Freeway”. The Darling Harbour section was constructed between operating railway goods yards and wharves. Originally, Cockle Bay ship transport hub was a network of low-level finger wharves receiving goods for traders and manufacturers dotted around the Sydney Town side of the bay. A railway tunnel under Railway Square connected Central Railway to Darling Harbour. Darling Harbour became a significant port, railway, transport, manufacturing and commercial hub, the goods yard closing in 1984. Sydney’s Hydraulic Power was a significant technological advance that changed the cityscape - hopefully we can still see the accumulators. Fig Street ran from Pyrmont Street to the “cliff” overlooking Wentworth Park. The houses in Fig Street became known as the “Fig Street Fiasco” the scene of a show down between the Department of Main Roads and the Builders Labourers Federation – Jack Mundey and the “Greenies”.

Bookings essential Walk 1: only from 9am sharp on Friday 7 February Walk 2: only from 9am sharp on 16 May; first come, first served. Please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.

Email bookings only: Max Underhill maxwellunderhill@gmail.com. Enquiries only: Max 0407 998 516 or Anna 0411 361 156

SPARKLING HIGH TEA AT PARLIAMENT HOUSE (max 12)

Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region

Meet at security kiosk at 6 Macquarie Street, Sydney at 11:30

Will be held on: Friday 23 May at 12 noon

Come and enjoy a selection of handmade and freshly baked sweet and savoury delights, served on Parliamentary Crested Wedgwood plates, accompanied by a glass of sparkling wine, and complemented by lovely views across The Domain.

Cost $75, payable in advance by EFT only. Payment details when booking. This is a catered, pre-paid event with no refunds. Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 5 May. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.

Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

CITY AND INNER WEST

President: Vicki Moss vicki@mcglashan.com.au (preferred) 0417 160 856

Regional Course Coordinator: Anne Hall 0419 017 364 annenhall@gmail.com Enquiries only

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.

CITY AND INNER WEST REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers

Will be held on: Wednesday 12 March 2025 commencing at 1:30 at: Burwood Club RSL, 96 Shaftesbury Rd - Parking on Site

Guest Speaker: Ron Ringer

Topic: Bricks

Believe it or not, the humble brick continues to have an enormous impact on our lives. Historian Ron Ringer tells the fascinating and entertaining story of how bricks built our towns and cities. Refreshments afterwards

Nomination forms from: Vicki Moss 0417 160 856 vicki@mcglashan.com.au (preferred) RSVP by 5 March to: Anne Hall 0419 017 364 annenhall@gmail.com (preferred)

ASHFIELD: CARDINAL FREEMAN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

137 Victoria St wheelchair access, parking nearby

Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364

Games Bridge BRIDGE FOR THE LESS COMPETITIVE

Every Tuesday from 7 Jan 1:00 to 4:00 Brush up your bridge skills in our informal group in a friendly non-competitive atmosphere. All levels of skill welcome. Leader and Bookings: Cherie Lucas harpo2021@gmail.com 9799 1716

CLUB ASHFIELD

5-7 Charlotte St parking onsite

Venue Coordinator Lois Knight lmknight66@gmail.com 9798 6525

Qigong Tai Chi

QIGONG, FAN, AND COLLABORATIVE TAI CHI (max 15)

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:30 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

Class begins with ba duan jin and mini wild goose qigong where beginners are welcome, followed by 24 and 28 form tai chi chuan suitable for those with some experience. A modified kung fu fan completes the session. Leader and Bookings: Deborah Gracic deb.gracic@gmail.com 9636 6512 Lois Knight lmknight66@gmail.com 9798 6525

Relaxation Exercise

COOPERATIVE RELAXATION AND STRETCHING ACTIVITIES (max 20)

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

This course is for exercise in a collaborative atmosphere. Leader: Lois Knight lmknight66@gmail.com 9798 6525

Bookings: Margaret Quinn 0412 134 300

Qigong

COLLABORATIVE QIGONG (max 15)

Every Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 11:30 (excluding school holidays)

This is qigong in a collaborative environment. Qigong, according to Chinese culture, is beneficial to maintaining good health.

Bookings: Denise Yuen sdyuen@gmail.com 0410 570 188 Language ESL

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (max 14)

Every Friday from 7 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 (excluding school holidays)

We look at how English works, focusing on a topic of interest to the group. Read aloud, discuss pronunciation, word meanings, spelling, grammar and current idioms. A relaxed way to practice and improve your English with a friendly group.

Leader and Bookings: Janet Egan janet.egan@gmail.com 0415 133 994

Dance

SALSA PLUS MORE **NEW**

Every Thursday from 20 Feb 11:00 to 12:30 (excluding school holidays)

Join us for some fun and fitness through dancing. No partners required. Start with gentle warm up exercises and basic Salsa; move at your own pace. Later explore other Latin/Ballroom dances with DanceSport registered coach. Leader and Bookings: Nazni Farooq naz_studies@yahoo.com 0491 683 837

CLUB BURWOOD

Cnr Burwood Rd and George St train station nearby Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364

Current Affairs

DISCUSSION GROUP CURRENT AFFAIRS

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

We are a friendly group who discuss current affairs topics nominated by our members in turn. We allow issues and context to be fully explored with no topic out of bounds. Our discussions are always conducted with respect and sensitivity.

Leader and Bookings: John Neely johnwilliamneely@gmail.com 0418 471 183

Sociology History

SOME VERY SURPRISING HISTORIES

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

You will be astonished at the unsuspected history of such things as alcohol, diet and sport amongst much else. An engaging and stimulating course.

Leader: Frank Wilson

Bookings: Betty Candy bjcandy@bigpond.com 9716 4775

BURWOOD RSL

96 Shaftesbury Rd parking onsite, train station nearby Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364

Language Japanese JAPANESE FOR BEGINNERS

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

The course caters for complete beginners and also those with a little more language experience. The course includes conversation, culture, shared travel experiences and hiragana script.

Leader: Haruko Tanaka haruko1304@gmail.com 0424 225 863

Bookings: Maria Daniele 0414 560 951

Cinema CLASSIC MOVIES

Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Feb 10:00 to 12:30

From the silent to the contemporary era: a selection of influential films that helped develop the industry. Explore and analyse background and historical settings plus production issues and biographical details pertaining to the director, cast and production personnel.

Leader: Hugh Watson 9519 5082

Bookings: Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364

Economics Investment INVESTMENT DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 9:30 to 11:45

Understand the forces and current events that affect investment markets. We examine specific topics and undertake some practical activity. This is a discussion group only, and our members are not permitted, by law, to provide financial advice.

Leader and Bookings: Greg Buriak buriak@optusnet.com.au 0422 599 417

Discussion Group

SOCIAL ISSUES AND CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 17)

Alternate Fridays from 14 Feb 10:00 to 12:30

Meetings are divided into two sessions by a tea break. First session: Topic for discussion prepared and presented by a volunteer. Second Session: Current Affairs, no subject taboo. A friendly, intelligent group where everyone is encouraged to participate.

Leader and Bookings: Graham Murphy gramur@bigpond.com 9713 9730

BURWOOD: WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY CENTRE

22 Church St train station nearby, parking onsite

Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364

Music Recorder RECORDER GROUP

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 (excluding school holidays)

A long-established friendly group. We perform a wide variety of music at intermediate level (not for beginners). Lunch afterwards at Burwood RSL.

Leader and Bookings: David Young dy4health@gmail.com 0414 249 618 or 9569 8167

Cinema

POPCORN ANYONE? (max 15)

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Come along to a fun and friendly discussion on what’s screening at the cinema or on free streaming services. We explore two movies chosen by the group each fortnight. Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

GLEBE LIBRARY

186 Glebe Point Rd Cnr Wigram Rd, Benledi Room Venue Coordinator Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com (preferred) 0412 595 891

Language Japanese JAPANESE

Every Thursday from 6 Feb from 10:00 to 12:00

Knowledge of hiragana, katakana and some kanji will be helpful. We use a textbook, Japanese for Busy People II, twice per month and a few articles printed from topics of current Japanese interests.

Leader: Nobuyo Williams 0420 770 661 or Haruko Johansson 8957 7016

Bookings: Jan O’Loughlin janmi333@hotmail.com 0422 637 385

Book Group

FIRST FRIDAY BOOK GROUP

First Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Favourite books are chosen by members for discussion by the group. New members very welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Jan MacIndoe nmacindoe@gmail.com 0424 537 557

GLEBE: THE OLD TOWN HALL

160 St Johns Rd Bus 469, 470

Venue Coordinator Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com (preferred) 0412 595 891

Art Drawing

DRAWING/FIGURE SKETCHING (max 15) **NEW**

Alternate Thursdays from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Still life and landscape: draw what you see and sense, not what you know.

Figure sketching: build up the main foundation of drawing and sense of form and construction.

Doodling: create a picture to find an interesting way of drawing.

Leader: Kylac Phung

Bookings: Quyen Phung quyen088@gmail.com (preferred) 0411 546 884

Art Drawing

DRAWING (max 15)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 We use black and white (charcoal, pencil, ink) with some other media, such as Conté. The basics are covered, including tone, perspective and composition. Students are encouraged to suggest topics. Only an interest in drawing is required.

Leader and Bookings: Neville Bendall 9660 1873

Music Ukulele STRUMMIN’ TOGETHER AGAIN

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 2:00 to 3:30 We have a ball, singing and strumming our ukuleles and exploring diverse aspects of music. Learning an instrument is a challenge, but so beneficial for memory, concentration, finger dexterity and more! Familiarity with basic open chords is assumed.

Bookings: Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com 0412 595 891

GLEBE: TOXTETH HOTEL

345 Glebe Point Rd Fireside Lounge ground floor parking nearby Venue Coordinator Susan Wood susantwood@bigpond.com

Philosophy

PHILOSOPHY IN THE PUB (max 10)

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 3:00 to 5:00

Topics from a wide range of political and cultural themes are examined from a philosophical perspective. Discussion aims to promote differing world views and challenge belief systems. Members are expected to participate in internet/ web research, questioning and facilitating.

Leader and Bookings: Susan Wood susantwood@bigpond.com

LEICHHARDT LIBRARY

23 Norton St Forum Piazza Level paid parking on site

FRIDAY MORNINGS AT THE LIBRARY (max 20)

Alternate Fridays from Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Interesting talks covering various topics.

Bookings: Janice Millard rjmillard5@icloud.com 0419 203 361

History Australia

1. Historical convict bricks- they built this city

14 Feb

Bricks by the billion. Ron Ringer, author of The Brickmasters: 1788-2008, will give an illustrated talk on how early Sydney’s brick heritage took shape.

Speaker: Ron Ringer

Music

2. You say goodbye and I say hello

28 Feb

From the Beatles to Bocelli, enjoy and discover stories behind some wonderful songs on the themes of hello and goodbye.

Speaker: Graham Spindler

Travel

3. Most scenic railway journeys in the world

14 Mar

As train travel is getting more popular with tourists, we look at the best scenic railway journeys in all the five continents.

Speaker: Punchi Dassanayake

History Australia

4. A brick story one step forward

28 Mar

The follow-up talk from 14 Feb on Sydney’s growth, a place to call home, technological advance and brickmaking operations, economic depression, onwards and upwards from 1900-1930.

Speaker: Ron Ringer

History Papua New Guinea

5. Patrols into the Stone Age in PNG

11 Apr

Mid-1960’s patrols into the primitive wilds of Papua New Guinea confronting threatening cannibals plus A Court Martial in PNG.

Speaker: David Wilkins

Language English

6. History of Oz slang

2 May

Background to the Macquarie Dictionary and its adventures in spelling, taboo words, flashpoints in politics and new words. The standards in usage – cliches, punctuation, jargon. Speaker: Sue Butler

Health

7. Drugs that affect mood and behaviour Part 1

16 May

Learn how alcohol, cannabis and benzodiazepines (Valium like drugs) work in the body and the dangers associated with their use.

Speaker: Dr Rosemarie Einstein

Geography

8. Great river systems on our planet

30 May

Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilisations they pass through.

Speaker: Punchi Dassanyake

Famous People

9. Bee Miles

13 Jun

An in-depth discussion on one of the 20th century’s most fascinating and intriguing figures, and the historical and political events that shaped her life.

Speaker: Rose Ellis

Health

10. Drugs that affect mood and behaviour Part 2 27 Jun

‘Ice’, ecstasy and cocaine are just some of the illicit substances causing problems today. How they work in the body and their associated dangers.

Speaker: Dr Rosemarie Einstein

MARRICKVILLE LIBRARY

313 Marrickville Rd JJ Cahill Room parking under library from Livingston Rd, train station nearby, bus stop nearby

Book Group

THE BIG ISSUES BOOK CLUB

Second Thursday from 13 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 Are you passionate about politics, climate change, the environment? Do you question decisions made by those in power that shape our lives, our nation and the world at large? Each month we will discuss a current title, chosen by the group.

Leader and Bookings: Stuart Corner corner.stuart@gmail.com 0419 492 190

REVESBY COMMUNITY HALL

Macarthur Ave

Venue Coordinator Joy Pegler peglerjm@bigpond.com 9771 6185

Tai Chi

TAI CHI (max 25)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 9:30 to 11:00 (except school holidays)

For tai chi novices as well as for more experienced practitioners. The aim is for all participants to progress from 6 to 24 tai chi forms.

Leader and Bookings: Christine Chew chrischew@optusnet.com.au (preferred) 0413 149 938

REVESBY WORKERS CLUB

20 Brett St parking onsite

Venue Coordinator Joy Pegler peglerjm@bigpond.com 9771 6185

Cinema Movies

FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)

Fourth Tuesday from 28 Jan 10:00 to 12:00

Members undertake to view up to three group-selected films screening during the coming month. At every meeting, a volunteer introduces one of the selected films, followed by group discussion.

Leader and Bookings: Robyn Deane rdeanee297@gmail.com 9726 4279

ROZELLE: HANNAFORD CENTRE

608 Darling St Cnr Nelson St wheelchair access

Discussion Group DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 (excluding school holidays)

A lively discussion group. Each member has the opportunity to suggest and lead the topic for discussion. Subjects vary widely depending upon the news of the day or past events, but may cover philosophy, literature, the arts and life sciences.

Leader and Bookings: Barry Bidwell barry_bidwell@yahoo.com.au 0408 607 434

Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 8)

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:00 to 11:30

A reasonable knowledge of French grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation is assumed. Reading, writing, listening and speaking activities are used to consolidate and extend that knowledge and those skills. There will be some formal grammar and a few laughs along the way.

Leader and Bookings: Alan Rodrick alan.rodrick@gmail.com 9819 6579

Language French ADVANCED FRENCH DISCUSSION (max 12)

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 11:30 to 1:00

A solid background in French is necessary. Focus is on conversational French covering a wide range of topics, enhanced by reading, videos and games. Members are expected to be actively involved in contributing ideas and material for discussion.

Leader and Bookings: Sue Tronser suetronser@gmail.com 0418 673 670

SYDNEY U3A OFFICE

Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts 280 Pitt Street, Sydney Metro (Gadigal), train station, bus stop, light rail stop nearby Venue Coordinator Kerri Thompson kerrithmpsn052@gmail.com (preferred) 0452 588 058

Language French ONGOING INTERMEDIATE FRENCH

Every Wednesday from 29 Jan 12:00 to 2:00

Three years of study and a good sense of humour required. Emphasis on speaking and reading with a French accent, writing accurately and applying grammar rules in a friendly atmosphere.

Leader and Bookings: Annelise Karpos annelisekarpos6@gmail.com 0410 404 940

Art Galleries

DECONSTRUCTING CONTEMPORARY ART (max 25)

Every Thursday from 30 Jan 1:30 to 3:30

Visit contemporary art shows in Sydney galleries fortnightly. On alternate weeks, meet at the City Office for evaluation of news, events, trends, theory and history of the work visited. Build a virtual art collection and develop a personal aesthetic. Good physical fitness required.

Leader and Bookings: Wendy Fraser barrieandwendy@gmail.com 9569 7942 or 0408 711 672

Cinema Movies

FILM APPRECIATION (max 18)

Alternate Mondays from 3 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Do you enjoy contemporary cinema and sharing your ideas? Members of this group research a film and lead the discussion three to four times a year. We also look at issues, trends and news in the film world.

Leader and Bookings: Susanne de Ferranti susannedeferranti@gmail.com

TUESDAYS IN THE CITY (max 33)

Most Tuesdays from 4 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Interesting talks covering various topics. Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org (preferred) or Veronica Yeung sanpuiman@hotmail.com 0417 160 856

Music

1. Stories behind the song lyrics

4 Feb

Entertaining audio and visual journeys into the stories behind some well-known songs.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Nature

2. Colourful lives

11 Feb

Colours in nature attract some colourful people. They even have birds or fish named after them. Why is the story of their lives so interesting?

Presenter: Chloë Mason

History Papua New Guinea

3. New Guinea: Australia’s role in the 1960s & 1914

18 Feb

1: Tales of what Australian patrols encountered in New Guinea in the 1960s.

2: In 1914 the Australian contingent in New Guinea defeating the German force.

Presenter: David Wilkins

Literature History

4. History and mythology with storytelling 25 Feb

A short history of myth from Indigenous to the present. Understanding ourselves, how we got to here, a brief survey and telling of Homer’s Odyssey. Presenter: Jonathon Drew

Science Nature

5. Colour

4 Mar

What is colour, from both scientific and artistic points of view, and how is colour created in nature, and in imaging technology?

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

History Ancient

6. Nefertiti, Akhenaten and the link with Tutankhamun 11 Mar

Who were Nefertiti and Akhenaten? How did they try to change Ancient Egypt and what is their association with Tutankhamun.

Presenter: Glennise West

Literature

7. Rhyme or reason (the history behind nursery rhymes)

18 Mar

Reveals English history hidden in Nursery Rhymes. Why was a baby on a tree top? Who was Humpty Dumpty? From the book, Rhyme and Reason.

Presenter: Susan Ackroyd

Archaeology

8. Endeavour – her life after Cook

25 Mar

How do archaeologists go about finding a wreck? Learn the general principles and see how they were successfully applied to finding Cook’s ship HMB Endeavour.

Presenter: Pam Forbes & Greg Jackson

Culture

9. April Fools’ Day

1 Apr

A look at the importance and /or otherwise of the what, who, when and where of this fun day.

Presenter: Geoff Davidson

Food

10. The pharmacology of herbs

8 Apr

Herbs have been used in Medicine from time immemorial, Western Medicine is only a few hundred years old. We discuss herbal treatment in some detail.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Art

11. The art of Grace Cossington Smith

15 Apr

Grace Cossington Smith was one of the most important post-impressionist Australian artists with a talent for making the everyday look brilliant. We view her art.

Presenter: Reinhard Ronnebeck

History War

12. 1940 evacuation from Hong Kong / Anzac commemoration

22 Apr

1: In 1940 with the Japanese Army approaching, the British evacuated western women and children to Australia.

2: War memorials; National servicemen in the Vietnam War.

Presenter: Diane O’Hare & David Wilkins

Famous People

13. Mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan

29 Apr

Born into a poor Indian family, Ramanujan sat in front of his house formulating complicated theorems. Later he became one of the world’s great mathematicians.

Presenter: Srinivas Sydney

Famous People

14. Eileen O’Connor - Our Lady of Coogee

6 May

Eileen O’Connor was the founder of Sydney Brown Nurses. As the Holy See has recognised her holiness and virtue, could she become Australia’s next saint?

Presenter: Monica O’Connell and Carls Lopez

Politics

15. What is democracy and why it’s under pressure? Pt 1

13 May

Some thoughts about how people’s views about what is right or wrong have changed over the centuries.

Presenter: Peter Nixon?

Art

16. Lindsay family artists: Norman, Lionel etc

20 May

Revisiting the Lindsays one century on. Are we still alarmed, or shocked? Warning: Slides will include nudity!

Presenter: Ann Sutherland

Politics

17. What is democracy and why it’s under pressure? Pt 2 27 May

We expand on the views about right and wrong expressed in Part One (13 May) and examine some examples in detail.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

History Architecture

18. NSW colonial architect: James Barnet 3 Jun

During 28 years as colonial architect, Barnet designed 1,350 public buildings all over NSW, including post offices (eg the GPO), police stations, courthouses, jails, lighthouses.

Presenter: Don Napper

History Architecture

19. NSW colonial architects: The first 100 years 10 Jun

Colonial architects helped Barnet transform Sydney from a nondescript Georgian township to an international Victorian city, including Francis Greenway, Mortimer Lewis, Walter Vernon, George McRae.

Presenter: Don Napper

Health

20. Heart health and novel ways to regenerate cardiac tissue

17 Jun

Treatment of heart failure using a combination of advanced techniques, such as bioengineered heart tissues for cardiac regeneration using stem cells and 3D bioprinters.

Presenters: Dr Carmine Gentine and Andrea Natoli

Craft

21. A journey through quilt making 24 Jun

Tracing the history of textiles, machines, quilts - military, traditional and contemporary; and the people around the world who made them.

Presenter: Elisa Beecham

History Geography

BUILDING THE DARLING HARBOUR FREEWAY

Thursday 6 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Challenges and Intrigues around building of the Darling Harbour Freeway with its impact on today’s heritage legislation – recommended if you’re joining Max’s Darling Harbour Walk.

Leader and Bookings: Max Underhill maxwellunderhill@gmail.com for enquiries only Max 0407998516 or Anna 0411361156

Book Group

PATRICK O’BRIAN’S AUBREY-MATURIN NOVELS (max 12)

First Friday from 7 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Join Captain Jack Aubrey and naturalist, intelligence agent and ship’s doctor, Stephen Maturin in the era of the great sailing ships. Naval battles, Admiralty politics, espionage and the shifting allegiances of the Napoleonic wars keep our heroes on their toes.

Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink raspberryink@icloud.com

Writing

CITY WRITING CLUB

Alternate Mondays from 10 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Life is a collection of stories often buried away. Our supportive group will write short pieces that can include anecdotes, verse, interesting facts or precious moments from our lives. Sharpen your pencils and come along with me on this journey.

Leader and Bookings: Patricia Thornton bornbinkp@hotmail.com 0425 233 169

Book Group

CITY READING GROUP (max 12)

Every Second and Fourth Friday from 14 February 1:30 to 3:30

Reading in a circle is very satisfying! Focusing on books well known but not always read, join us as we take turns in reading, then together discussing and rediscovering these treasures. Currently reading: Montaigne, The Essays Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink rasberryink@icloud.com

TECH THURSDAYS (max 33)

Alternate Thursdays 6 Mar to 1 May 1:30 to 3:30

Leader: David Farrell

Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org david_v_farrell@hotmail.com (preferred) 0420 678 403

Technology Computers

1. How to use an Android phone

6 Mar

Not just a phone, it’s a computer that connects to the Internet! We will cover basic settings, security, apps, web browsing, email and podcast listening.

Technology Computers

2. How to use an iPhone

20 Mar

Not just a phone, it’s a computer that connects to the Internet! We will cover basic settings, security, apps, web browsing, email and podcast listening.

Internet Computers

3. The Internet

3 Apr

A brief talk about the history of the internet, some basic features and terminology (DNS, TCP, URL and other TLAs) followed by a Q&A session.

Internet Computers

4. Internet security

17 Apr

If it sounds too good (or bad) to be true, it probably is. We’ll cover keeping bank accounts safe on the internet followed by Q&A.

Technology Computers

5. Tech drop in 1 May

Book a timeslot and ask questions about phones, laptops, tablets, ipads, browsing, apps, email, podcast listening, word, excel or any other technical questions you have.

Technology Computers

6. Tech drop in 15 May

Book a timeslot and ask questions about phones, laptops, tablets, iPads, browsing, apps, email, podcast listening, word, excel or any other technical questions you have.

Technology Computers

7. What is happening with the Sydney u3a Website? 29 May

Come along to hear how the new system will work. Learn how to manage your membership, search for courses, enrol or cancel your enrolment.

Technology Computers

8. What is happening with the Sydney u3a Website? 12 Jun

Come along to hear how the new system will work. Learn how to manage your membership, search for courses, enrol or cancel your enrolment.

Technology Computers

9. What is happening with the Sydney u3a Website? 26 Jun

Come along to hear how the new system will work. Learn how to manage your membership, search for courses, enrol or cancel your enrolment.

OUT THERE

Games Pétanque PÉTANQUE GROUP

Every second Monday from 10 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 Originating in France, the game is played by two teams with the goal of getting the most boules, or metal balls, closest to the target. Suitable for beginners and experienced players. Meet at the top gate at Ballast Point Park Birchgrove.

Leader and Bookings: Peter Neale and Linda Larsen peter.neale909@gmail.com 0403 366 613

Outdoors Eating Out

LUNCH OUT AND ABOUT (max 20)

Second Tuesday from 11 Feb 12:00 to 2:30

Do you enjoy good food and conversation and a laugh? Join us. Venues are chosen to be accessible by public transport. Members pay for their own meal.

Leader and Bookings: Christine Saint chrisaint772@gmail.com 0435 274 700

Outdoors Eating Out MUNCH ON BRUNCH

Third Thursday from 20 Feb

Step out and come brunching at a slick café somewhere in the inner city, or perhaps a bit further afield, but mostly close to public transport. Our venues are picked for their enticing food offerings, sharp design and quality coffee. Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)

Outdoors Galleries

VISITING REGIONAL and SUBURBAN GALLERIES

Saturdays twice a month (mid-morning to midafternoon)

Travel by public transport. Join our lively group on visits to regional and suburban galleries to view a variety of exhibitions.

Leader and Bookings: Joanne Gordon joannegordon@bigpond.com (preferred) 0418 224 211

PRIVATE HOMES

Book Group INNER WEST BOOK GROUP (various locations) (max 12)

First Wednesday from 5 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

Enhance your enjoyment of reading by sharing your ideas with others. Once a month we will read and discuss a book, choosing from a wide range of literature both fiction and non-fiction. At the Feb meeting we will discuss The Space between us by Thrity Umrigar.

Leader and Bookings: Kris Clarke clarketk@gmail.com 9705 1017 (enquiries only)

NEW VENUE GLEBE: ST HELEN’S COMMUNITY CENTRE

184 Glebe Point Rd

Crosswords SOLVING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS - BEGINNERS **NEW**

First and third Thursdays from 6 Feb 12:00 to 2:00

Want to learn how to solve cryptic crosswords, haven’t done any recently or need a refresher? Learn the tricks that make them easier to solve, then we’ll solve a crossword together. Bring writing materials. $5 contribution for worksheets per semester.

Leader and Bookings: Genevieve Healy gen@nghealy.com preferred 0418 404 810

EASTERN

Regional President: David Rosenwax AM drosenwax@bigpond.com

Regional Course Coordinator: Mary Healy-North maryhealynorth1@bigpond.com Enquiries only

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You do not need to book for any courses at COA Centre Woollahra.

EASTERN REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers

Will be held on: 21 March 2025 commencing at 12 noon at: COA Centre – 25 Rowe St Woollahra

Bookings for the AGM essential. Contact Secretary Sandy See at sandra.l.see@gmail.com

Please consider standing for a position on the committee.

Nomination forms will be emailed to Eastern members and must be returned to the Secretary before 14 March 2025.

COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA

25 Rowe St wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby

FRIDAYS AT COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA

Every Friday from 7 Feb 10:30 to 12:00

A variety of presentations of general interest looking at topics relevant to us in today’s world. NO BOOKINGS are required.

International Relations

1. In defence of our humanity

7 Feb

Professor Stephen Hill speaks about his book ‘In Defence of our Humanity’ and his experience working in the United Nations.

Presenter: Professor Stephen Hill

Law

2. Kidnapped

14 Feb

The kidnapping of Graeme Thorne in 1960 – an event that gripped the nation.

Presenter: Mark Tedeschi AM KC

Art

3. The Boom Gate Gallery, Maroubra 21 Feb

The history and the exhibitions of The Boom Gate in Maroubra.

Presenter: Elizabeth Day

Art

4. Outsider art

28 Feb

A visual journey on the highways of creativity, madness and outsider art. There are many Old Masters but why no Old Mistresses?

Presenter: Lydia Fegan

Science

5. Why does carbon dioxide cause global warming?

7 Mar

Trace amounts of greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide cause climate change, but more prevalent atmospheric molecules we breathe, oxygen and nitrogen do not. Why is this so?

Presenter: Don Napper

History

6. The Coast Hospital

13 Mar NOTE THIS IS A THURSDAY

When plague leprosy scarlet fever infected many of Sydney’s poorest citizens, they were cared for at the Coast Hospital established in 1881 (later the Prince Henry). Every story from the hospital cemetery is sad in a different way, be it of a child, widow, nurse, or ambulance driver.

Presenter: Debbie Rudder

Law

7. Understanding Australian Law - Part I

21 Mar

Where do laws come from? How does the system work? What are the legal dimensions of current events?

Presenter: David Hirsch, Barrister

A short AGM for U3A Eastern Region will follow this talk at 12.00 midday. All members are welcome to attend.

Law

8. Understanding Australian Law - Part II

28 Mar

Where do laws come from? How does the system work? What are the legal dimensions of currents events?

Presenter: David Hirsch, Barrister

Music Appreciation

9. Handel’s Messiah

4 April

We learn about the history of this famous oratorio, how it became one of the best known and frequently performed works in Western music.

Presenter: Andy Bromberger

Science Chemistry

10. The big black sausage

11 Apr

No, not about that fantastic bestselling novel. We will discuss some everyday items and observations, along with some demonstrations, all OH&S compatible. If attractive, could become a series.

Presenter: Em Prof Ben Selinger AM

18 Apr – No u3a Talk – Good Friday - COA CLOSED

25 Apr – No u3a Talk – Anzac Day – COA CLOSED

Information Technology

11. Robotics and AI

2 May

An introduction to the concept of robotics and artificial intelligence by a software engineer with experience in educative robots.

Presenter: Cedric Muller

Politics USA

12. American elections-time for a re-set

9 May

Discussing how the ‘modern’ way of choosing candidates has failed to select the best and the brightest.

Presenter: Harry Melkonian

History Australia

13. Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC

16 May

Sir Peter will talk about his service as 26th Governor General of Australia, 2019 - 2024.

Presenter: Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC

Technology

14. AI and seniors

23 May

What is AI all about? Where is it at and where is it heading? Accessing and using AI is not difficult at all, once you know how.

Presenter: Peter Thorpe

History

15. Humanitarian aid

30 May

We will hear about experiences working as a humanitarian delegate in a range of contexts over more than 16 years.

Presenter: Robyn Baxendale

Technology Innovation

16. Iconic Australian inventions of our time

6 Jun

A look at the people and science behind some of our classic Australian discoveries and inventions from the 19th century colonial era to our present time.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

History Western Sydney

17. City West

13 Jun

Come and hear the history of Ultimo and Pyrmont, then the Parramatta River upstream from Gladesville Bridge and finally Parramatta and the infamous Female Factory.

Presenter: Trevor McAlister

Sociology

18. Retirement and ageing

20 Jun

Catherine Rickwood is a change maker, provocateur and researcher on age-based stereotypes, committed to change through storytelling.

Presenter: Catherine Rickwood

Medical and Legal

19. Voluntary Assisted Dying

27 Jun

Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) laws are in place in all Australian states and allow people with a terminal or incurable condition and unbearable suffering, the right to a quick and peaceful death with medical assistance.

Presenter: Penny Hackett, President, Dying with Dignity NSW

BONDI JUNCTION: MILL HOTEL

59B Oxford St

Book Group

EASTERN CRIME READERS GROUP

Third Tuesday from 18 Feb 10:15 to 12:00

The group discusses a wide range of crime fiction and tries to select the best titles from international and Australian authors.

Leader and Bookings: Sandy See sandra.l.see@gmail.com 0412 044 811

BONDI JUNCTION: WAVERLY LIBRARY

32-48 Denison St

Level 1 Study Room 4

Book Group

WAVERLEY BOOK GROUP

First Thursday from 6 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

Everyone suggests a book they have read or would recommend. New members very welcome.

Bookings: Jennifer Woodroffe jenniferwoodroffe@hotmail.com (preferred) 0418 40 4881

Mathematics MATHS IS FOR EVERYONE

Every second Monday from 3 Mar 10:30 to 12:00

Each meeting presents a talk on a mathematical topic. After a break we will have a discussion of some puzzles which will be circulated a week before the meeting. No knowledge beyond school level is assumed.

Bookings and Presenter: Andrew Holt aholt171@gmail.com

CLOVELLY SENIOR CITIZEN CENTRE

40-42 Arden St

On street parking, buses nearby

Discussion Group Movies

FILM DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Share your opinion on acting, characters, plots, cinematography.

Leader and Bookings: Graham Blazey gblazey@optusnet.com.au 9365 1961

Discussion Group

CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Join us for occasional debate and social interaction if you are interested in the world around you.

Leader: Gwen Zeller gszeller@gmail.com 0404 781 162

Bookings: Marise Segelov marisesegelov@gmail.com 9363 4023 or 0410 514 866

PADDINGTON: EJ WARD CENTRE

189 Underwood St (cnr George St) bus stop nearby

Language French FRENCH CONVERSATION (Advanced)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 10:30 to 12:00 French language level: it is conversation, not a lesson. To get the most out of this group, you need to be able to speak some French intelligibly and understand others who speak French more fluently.

Leader: Michelle Scheibmair 0414 978 917

Bookings: Paula Mackintosh pmackint1@yahoo.com 0425 074 488

PRIVATE HOMES

Book Group

ROSE BAY BOOK GROUP

First Wednesday from 5 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 Everyone gets to choose a book to discuss. We take turns to meet at each other’s homes. New members welcome. Leader and Bookings: Judy New 0414 686 844 or 9371 7250

Music Appreciation DISCOVERING FINE MUSIC (Randwick)

Every second Monday from 10 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 We listen to compositions from the great masters, focusing on their lesser- known works, as well as composers who are often overlooked today. We also include Australian composers and performers. Group participation warmly welcomed as are new members.

Leader and Bookings: Julie Reid julievreid@gmail.com 0411 575 157

Book Group

NORTH BONDI BOOK GROUP (max 10)

Third Wednesday from 19 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 People come with suggestions of authors to read and discuss. Conversation pivots around what people have read of the author. At other times we pick a genre to read and discuss: thrillers, biography, history, science fiction. New members are very welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Liza Cohn liza.cohn@yahoo.com 9389 1336

ENDEAVOUR (SOUTHERN)

Regional President: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Regional Course Coordinator: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.

ENDEAVOUR REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers will be held on: Thursday 20th March commencing at 10:00am at: Cronulla School of the Arts

Address: 6 Surf Road, Cronulla.

CRONULLA COMMUNITY HALL

1/38-60 Croydon St

Meeting Room 1

wheelchair access, train station nearby

Language French FRENCH FOR INTERMEDIATE SPEAKERS (max 16)

Every Monday from 10 Feb 2:00 to 3:30 (excluding school holidays)

Intermediate level French, basic knowledge required. Revive your grammar, practise your conversation skills, and enjoy reading French texts. Have fun in a relaxed learning environment.

Leader and Bookings: Susan Molloy-Johnson twotwelves@outlook.com

CRONULLA SCHOOL OF ARTS

6 Surf Rd, Arts Theatre

Upstairs Activity Room/Lecture Room, wheelchair access, lift available, parking nearby, train station nearby.

PRESENTATIONS – TOPICS OF INTEREST (max 80) Mondays or Tuesdays from 20 Jan 10:30 to 12:00 Various presentations about different interesting topics. Enquiries ONLY Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com Bookings not required. Please bring a friend.

History

1. Pearls and pearling in Australia Monday 20 Jan

Journey from before white settlement, to the ‘grab what you can’ of early settlers on north coast of West Australia to current sustainable pearling industry practices. Hear about the mystique and glamour of some famous pearls.

Presenter: Gillian Lewis

Music

2. How musicals are made

Monday 3 Feb

How musicals are selected, cast, rehearsed, and staged and how it is now a big business.

Presenter: Tom Sweeney

Internet

3. Identity misuse. Identity protection is important!

Monday 10 Mar

ID Support NSW, the nation-leading identity support unit work to minimise risks associated with identity theft. Learn how to: strengthen your cyber resilience, stay secure online, spot a scam, run credit checks, create and maintain strong passwords.

Presenter Alicia Anderson

History

4. Tales from the cemeteries

Tuesday 29 April

A grim title but a funny talk. Revealing curious epitaphs written, unintentionally funny quotes and outright lies told on memorials. An enormous amount of material is found in cemeteries and nothing more satisfying connecting to an ancestor’s grave.

Presenter: Judith Dunn

History

5. The Royal Flying Doctor Service

Monday 26 May

Learn about the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The primary and emergency medical care today for rural and remote Australia. How is it funded and what is the future?

Presenter: Greg Woodward

Science

6. An introduction to Forensic Science

Monday 16 Jun

We look at the history of Forensic Science across a number of disciplines, including Forensic Anthropology, together with a study of Forensic Entomology and the use of insects in the investigation of criminal matters.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Music

APPRECIATION OF CLASSICAL MUSIC **NEW** (max 30)

Fourth Thursday from 8 Jan 10:00 to 1:00

An invitation to join not only classical music lovers, but for anyone who enjoys listening to beautiful music. Each month the program will feature a variety of Classical music.

Leader: Margaret Durie

Bookings: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

History Ancient

OVERVIEW OF ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL HISTORY (max 30)

First and third Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

An overview of the rise and fall of civilisations and empires from ancient, medieval, to modern times by way of reading, discussion and TV documentaries (where available). Class members are encouraged to participate and/or contribute to the group.

Leader: Olga Bondarenko olgab@ozemail.com.au

Bookings: Carmen Izquierdo marycarmeniz@hotmail.com

Literature

READING AND DISCUSSING SHAKESPEARE (max 20)

First and Third Tuesdays from 4 Feb 2:00 to 3:30

Join in reading aloud the great plays and discussing their plots, characters, etc. The title of the play will be advised when you book. Please bring a copy of the play. Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund r.englund@optusnet.com.au 8521 7540

Travel

ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS (max 50)

First and Third Wednesdays from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

We come together with the common interest of sharing our travel experiences, using audio visual equipment. Some members choose not to present and enjoy the presentations as the audience.

Leader: Gwyn Leix gleix@optusnet.com.au 0415 130 756

Bookings: Kate Churcher kchurcher2@hotmail.com 0433 140 900

Music

HISTORY OF ROCK MUSIC FROM 1960s ONWARDS (max 40)

First Thursday from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

This course explores the fabulous music and careers of world-famous bands, solo artists and albums from the 1960s to the present day. Class members are encouraged to participate and contribute to the group by giving a presentation. We mainly use YouTube, DVD’s and CD’s. Leader and Bookings: Robin Hill robinu3asydney@gmail.com

Language Italian

ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (max 15)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

Basic Italian is required for students to participate in course activities which include conversation, listening, reading, with some writing exercises to practise appropriate grammar. Expand your appreciation of Italian culture through conversation, stories, poems and songs.

Acting Leader: Aurelia Pompili

Bookings: Judy Bassford judybassford7@gmail.com 9527 2931

Cinema

AT THE CINEMA – SPENCER TRACEY (max 40)

First and Third Thursday from 6 Feb 1:30 to 4:00

Experience and discuss films starring one of Hollywood’s most famous actors who secured nine Oscar nominations. A program will be available at the first session.

Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund r.englund@optusnet.com.au 8521 7540

Discussion Group

OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP B (max 15)

First and Third Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Topics of current interest are suggested by members. Each member has the opportunity to express their point of view uninterrupted. This is followed by questions and comments given in a respectful manner.

Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au (email preferred) 0423 532 582

Art Appreciation

ART HISTORY (max 40)

Second and Fourth Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

(excluding school holidays)

This course looks at the works of world-famous artists over the centuries. Members of the class present biographies with DVD and computer presentation.

Leader: Margaret Kingston m.kingston1@bigpond.com 0404 045 435

Bookings: Teresa Lamberton teresalamberton@hotmail.com 0414 425 353 or Carol Cook cook44271@gmail.com.au 0488 286 324

Discussion Group

OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP A (max 15)

Second and Fourth Wednesdays from 12 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Topics of current interest are suggested by members. Each member has the opportunity to express their point of view uninterrupted. This is followed by questions and comments given in a respectful manner.

Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au (email preferred) 0423 532 582

Games

BRAIN GAMES (max 20)

Second and Fourth Fridays from 14 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Extensive research provides growing evidence that in addition to maintaining physical fitness and eating sensibly, maintaining brain health in older people may assist in reducing the disease which causes dementia.

Leader and Bookings: Denis Paulin d.paulin@bigpond.com 0438 594 206

History Local

FROM MAPS TO MEMORIES (max 40) **NEW** Monday 17 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Tracing Sutherland Shire’s Property Evolution. Explore the history of properties and the surrounding area in Sutherland Shire using various historical and contemporary resources available online. We combine local history with practical research techniques that can be applied to any area.

Leader: Jeff Madsen jeff@lyptus.com.au

Bookings: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

Cinema

WHAT MAKES GREAT MOVIES GREAT (max 20)

Fourth Thursday from 27 Feb 1:00 to 3:00

Short talk about the characteristics of film selected, that go towards making it great viewing. Screening of film without interruption. General discussion of film by members, while having afternoon tea.

Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au (email preferred) 0423 532 582

History Local

USING MAPS IN FAMILY HISTORY (max 40) **NEW**

Monday 31 Mar 10:00 to 12:00

Show – don’t tell!! Replace lengthy descriptions of places with a simple map and improve your family stories. Learn how to source maps that can be used to research your ancestors and gain a sense of place for your family.

Leader: Jeff Madsen jeff@lyptus.com.au

Bookings: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

GYMEA COMMUNITY CENTRE

31-33 Gymea Bay Rd

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby

Dance

MIDDLE EASTERN DANCING (max 30)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 1:00 to 2:00 Many styles of dance are used in these classes – Middle Eastern/Gypsy/Latin/Spanish/African. The music is a mix of “old time” numbers and some traditional music. The choreography suits older bodies and there is never any pressure to “get it right”.

Leader: Faye Green shalinabd@bigpond.com 9521 6575

Bookings: Wendy Lobwein wendy.rae.lob@hotmail.com 9527 4696

Art Appreciation

DISCOVERING ART (max 25)

First and Third Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

This class will study and discuss a range of art-related topics, including architecture, artists, art movements and much, much more. We also visit a variety of art galleries as a regular highlight.

Leader and Bookings: Margaret Wilkes margiewilkes@live.com.au 0407 958 924

Art Drawing

DRAWING WITH COLOUR (max 20)

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 (excluding school holidays)

Member-driven art classes where we employ various styles and mediums, such as water colour, pastel, pen and ink, graphite and charcoal. Details for each class is emailed weekly to members.

Leader: Christine Horrocks Christine.anne7@outlook.com 0438 614 087 Bookings: Kerrie Gowen kerriegowen65@icloud.com 0409 457 028

GYMEA TRADIES

57 Manchester Rd

Wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby Archaeology

ASPECTS OF ARCHAEOLOGY (max 16)

First and Third Wed from 5 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

There is a video each meeting on archaeology followed by readings from articles relating to archaeology.

Leader: Mary Armstrong 9534 2675

Bookings: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com 0417 490 177

Art Urban Sketching

SUTHERLAND URBAN SKETCHING (max 40)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

Learn observational URBAN SKETCHING to illustrate YOUR JOURNAL from YOUR environment, in water colours. We sketch outdoors on Saturdays. Beginners and experienced sketchers welcome.

Leaders: Peggy Annabel peggy.annabel@bigpond.com 0402 354 968

Carol Cook cook44271@gmail.com.au 0488 286 324

Bookings: Anne O’Donnell anneodonn@gmail.com 0408 203 205

Language

CONVERSATIONAL ITALIAN (max 12)

Every Wednesday from 12 Feb 11:00 to 1:00 (excluding school holidays)

From beginners Italian, we will continue with extending our knowledge of grammar and sentence structure to become more confident speakers, readers, writers and listeners. furthering our knowledge of Italian language and culture. If you are a beginner, check with our booker if class suitable. Leader: Kylie Archer kylie@kidgredients.com.au

Bookings: Nilva Martini nilvalsim@gmail.com

MIRANDA COMMUNITY CENTRE

97 Karimbla Rd (corner Kiora Rd)

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Discussion Group

AUSTRALIAN HISTORY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 20)

First and Third Wednesday from 5 Feb 1:30 to 3:30 (excluding school holidays)

Did you miss out on learning about Australian history at school? Come and join this informal group and learn about a variety of subjects from indigenous culture and settlement through to current day happenings.

Leader: Janice Stokes stokesj@optusnet.com.au 0418 415 249

Bookings: Caroline Munro 0424 377 458

OATLEY HOTEL

8 Oatley Ave, parking nearby

Discussion Group

DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Our friendly group enjoys stimulating and serious discussion on current affairs and a variety of subjects. There is controversy, reminiscing and usually lots of laughter.

Leader and Bookings: Denis Paulin d.paulin@bigpond.com 0438 594 20

OATLEY LIBRARY

26 Letitia St

Wheelchair access, parking nearby

Art

OATLEY ART AND CRAFTERS (max 12)

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 (excluding school holidays)

Enjoy Art and Crafts? This group is for you! Bring your project of choice and enjoy a very social two hours creativity. Projects have included: painting, decoupage, knitting, quilting and sketching – anything arty or crafty. Afternoon tea supplied – along with laughter. Leader and Bookings: Barbara-Jean Adams beejaya@outlook.com 0438 299 108

Bookings: Maryanne Milligan 0416 965 736

SOUTH HURSTVILLE RSL

The Pinnacles 72 Connells Point Rd Wheelchair access, parking nearby

Book Group

AWARD-WINNING BOOKS (max 10)

First Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 Friendly group meeting, to discuss award-winning novels, or novels any one of the group thinks should have won an award! Followed by lunch (optional).

Leader and Bookings: Pat Copping 18gingie@gmail.com 0432 345 501 Bookings: Vivienne Hayle vhayle@hotmail.com 0420 650 814

SUTHERLAND CLUB ON EAST

Coffee Shop 7 East Pde Wheelchair access, parking nearby Book Group

CRIME WRITERS BOOK CLUB (max 14)

First and Third Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:15 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

In depth discussion about listed book and author. All input welcome. The reading list is compiled yearly by the Leader in consultation with members. Authors from all over the world are included. A friendly, social and intelligent group. The group may meet for lunch afterwards.

Leader: Carol Dawson cadawson43@gmail.com 0405 311 749

Bookings: Carolyn Schinazzi carolandreno@gmail.com 0433 574 990

OUT THERE

Outdoors Bushwalking

ENDEAVOUR CAMPUS WALKERS (max 30)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb (excluding school holidays)

Starting and finishing times vary using public transport and foot. Our walks program indicates degree of difficulty. We invite everyone to organise one walk per semester.

Leader: Christine Horrocks Christine.anne7@outlook.com 0438 614 087

Bookings: June Symes jsymes6@gmail.com 0408 077 900

Outdoors Eating Out LUNCH A LOT WITH STYLE (max 25)

First Thursday from 6 Feb 12:30 to 2:00

Enjoy eating out? Share good food and conversation? We visit inexpensive restaurants chosen by group members. Members pay for own meals and corkage. The laughter is free.

Leader and Bookings: Shirley Demetriou sdemetriou2@bigpond.com (bookings only) 0428 213 040 (enquiries only)

Outdoors Bushwalking WALKING AROUND SYDNEY (max 40)

Alternate Friday from 7 Feb

Starting and Finishing times will vary. Meet new people, discover parts of Sydney and surrounds you may never have been to. Walks are accessed via public transport. Bush and street walks of varying difficulty and length planned and lead by members of the group.

Leader: Teresa Longbottom teresalongbottom059@gmail.com

Bookings: Lesley Warwick lesleyaw17@gmail.com

Outdoors Sketching SHIRE SKETCHING – URBAN SKETCHING OUTDOORS (max 40)

Every Saturday from 8 Feb 10:00 to 12.00 (excluding school holidays)

Saturday sketching excursions are the outdoor component of the Thursday Gymea Tradies SHIRE SKETCHING class. Come out sketching to really observe our beautiful shire. Occasionally elsewhere with other urban sketch groups. All welcome.

Leaders: Peggy Annabel peggy.annabel@bigpond.com 0402 354 968

Carol Cook cook44271@gmail.com 0488 286 324

Bookings: Anne O’Donnell anneodonn@gmail.com 0408 203 205

Outdoors Walking SYDNEY STRIDERS (max 35)

Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Feb 9:00 to 2:00

Travelling by public transport to a variety of scenic and interesting places around Sydney where we walk on tracks, streets and parks with some bushwalking. It is hoped that members will organise and lead walks in their local area.

Leader: Mary Shannon mary@shannon.id.au 0439 813 174

Bookings: Lesley Tinker tinkertogs@gmail.com 0409 395 492

Outdoors

WALKING IN SYDNEY AND SURROUNDS (max 35)

Fortnightly from Friday 14 Feb

Starting and finishing times will vary.

A variety of walks around greater Sydney and surrounds ranging from medium to easier bushwalks, track and street walks, seeing beautiful and interesting places, whilst enjoying good company. All u3a members are welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Teresa and John Lamberton teresalamberton@hotmail.com 0414 425 353 or 0419 249 711

Outdoors Eating Out FLAVOUR OF THE MONTH

Second Friday from 14 Feb 12:00 to 2:00

Explore good food from different cuisines and enjoy good company while dining. Individual members are expected to organise one lunch by finding a restaurant, emailing group members and collating the RSVP’s.

Leader: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Bookings: Carol Cook cook44271@gmail.com

PRIVATE HOMES

History Culture

AUSTRALIA OUR LAND (Gymea) (max 10)

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

Using books and videos from the library we study and discuss the environmental, geographical, historical and cultural aspects of our wonderful country.

Leader: Angela Balding bistenhouse@yahoo.com 0499 872 339

Bookings: Trevor Campbell 9525 6970

Book Group

BOOK BANTER (Caringbah) (max 12)

First Friday from 7 Feb 1:30 to 3:00

A wide variety of books are chosen by the members of the group and one book is discussed each month.

Leader and Bookings: Vicki Hann vickihann@hotmail.com 0419 482 254

Creative Writing

CREATIVE WRITING (South Hurstville) (max 10)

Third Tuesday from 18 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Elevate your writing to new heights and embark on your creative writing journey while enjoying afternoon tea and meeting new people.

Leaders: Cathy Brett 0403 003 069 Jenny Jones 0403 943 932

Bookings: Patricia Skinner donleyton10@gmail.com 9547 0406

Photography IT’S BACK! - PHOTOBOOKS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS (Gymea) (max 6)

Wednesday 9 April 10:00 to 12:00

Always wanted to make a photobook but just needed a nudge to get started? Using a freely available computer program, we’ll discuss choosing book type, theme layouts, text and embellishments. Very suitable for true “photobook beginners”! Basic computer skills assumed.

Leader and Bookings: Jill McLelland jillU3A@outlook.com

GREATER WESTERN

Regional President: Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net (preferred) 0418 447 754

Regional Course Coordinator: Dallas Corcoran dallaslouise50@gmail.com 0402 639 380 Enquiries only

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.

GREATER WEST REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers will be held on: Friday 28 February commencing at 2:00pm at: The Phive Parramatta Square

Reports from the President and other Committee members. Guest Speaker TBA Refreshments provided.

RSVP to Ann at annorel@hotmail.com or via landline 9638 2547 no later than February 24

IMPORTANT: Election of office bearers for 2025: Members are invited to join the Greater West Committee or volunteer to be an Assistant (non-Committee person) to a Committee member. With your help, we will be able to keep our region filled with energetic courses and activities. Nomination forms and information about positions are available from Greater West Secretary at annorel@hotmail.com. Completed nomination forms must be sent to Secretary Ann Orel (annorel@hotmail.com) by February 14.

BLACKTOWN LIBRARY

Cnr Flushcombe Rd & Alpha St Study Room wheelchair access, train station and bus stop nearby History Genealogy

FAMILY TREE MYSTERIES (max 10)

First and Third Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 A support group for those researching their family history. From beginners to those with over thirty years’ experience in genealogy, our friendly group assists each other in solving their genealogy problems.

Leader and Bookings: Roslyn McMullen rmrfm12@gmail.com

BLACKTOWN: WESTPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE

Alpha St, Community Room Fourth Floor wheelchair access, train station and bus stop nearby Games

FUN AND GAMES (max 20)

Every Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:30 A light-hearted course to stretch your mind by playing Scrabble, Rummikub, Canasta, Mah Jong and other games in a friendly atmosphere.

Leader and Bookings: June Keith junekeith@optusnet.com.au 0412 040 230

CASTLE HILL WARRINA VILLAGE

(Alix Scott Community Centre)

Langshaw Circuit Parking nearby

Discussion Group Current Affairs ISSUES AND IDEAS

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

A lively discussion group researches and discusses ideas on a variety of contemporary issues, taking turns to lead discussion on a particular issue per session. Occasionally, guest speakers lead the discussion. If required, we deliver on Zoom.

Leader and Bookings: Jim Gray jcgray011@optusnet.com.au or John Brockman alban.kingslangley@gmail.com

MARAYONG: COMMUNITY CENTRE

62 Railway Rd

wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby

Tai Chi

TAI CHI/ QIGONG

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 9:30 to 11:00 (not school holidays)

The low impact nature of this oriental exercise Tai Chi/ Qigong reduces the risk of falls through improving co-ordination, balance and flexibility.

Leader and Bookings: Ellen Pilgrim stanp@optusnet.com.au 0407 450 291

NORTHMEAD: NBC SPORTS CLUB

166 Windsor Rd

Wheelchair access, parking onsite, bus stop nearby

Discussion Group

A LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)

Second and Fourth Monday from 10 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Have your say. We may not agree with what you say but we will defend your right to say it.

Leader: Kerry Houghton kerry.houghton1@gmail.com

Bookings: Sue Nielson suenielson@hotmail.com 0421 830 316

PARRAMATTA PHIVE

5 Parramatta Square

wheelchair access, train station and bus stop nearby

Genealogy

GROWING YOUR FAMILY TREE (max 12)

First and Third Tuesday from 4 Feb 12:00 to 2:00 Interested in your family history? Join a friendly, helpful group engaged in digging up their ancestors. Leader and Bookings: Ann Rowntree ann.rowntree@gmail.com

History

FRIDAY HISTORY WITH COLIN SMITH

First and Third Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

From the 1850s, Vietnamese people fought to end French overlordship of their country. After WWII, this struggle became part of the Cold War between the Communist bloc and the West until the final defeat of America in 1973.

Presenter: Colin Smith

Bookings: Steve Bensley steveben@aapt.net.au (preferred) 0401 454 364

TUESDAYS AT PHIVE

Second and Fourth Tuesday from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Interesting presentations from passionate people. Bookings: Ann Todd anntoddu3a@gmail.com

Australian History

1. The women behind the Governors (1788-1855) –playing their part

11 Feb

Untold stories about the female associates of the first 10 Governors of the colony of NSW, their influence, trials and tribulations, successes, scandals and losses due to their association with the men appointed as Governors.

Presenter: David Senior

Science - Health

2. Dementia risk factor reduction

25 Feb

Reducing 12 risk factors may prevent 40% of dementia cases. Social participation is vital for cognitive health and well-being in affected individuals and carers.

Presenter: Diana Matovic

History

3. History part 1: pre-historic Europe

11 Mar

The earliest human arrivals were followed by the hunter/ gathers, Anatolian farmers and the Indo-Europeans leading to the development of the earliest civilisation of the Aegean.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

History

4. History part 2: early Mediterranean world

25 Mar

The Phoenicians colonised the Mediterranean coast, the Celts spread from Central Europe, the Romans succeeded the Greeks but collapsed when encountering the Barbarian migrations.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

History

5. History part 3: the Middle Ages

8 Apr

The Anglo-Saxons migrated to Britain, Arabs invaded Spain, Vikings launched pirating raids and the Swede-Rus, Normans, Magyars and Bulgars claimed new territories.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

History

6. History part 4: the Modern Period

22 Apr

European rivalries spilled out of Europe leading to colonial empires. The European Alliance System led to the two World Wars and subsequent influx of non-Europeans.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

Science Health

7. Hearing loss as a disruptor of cognition in couples

13 May

Hearing loss affects cognition in couples, threatening cognitive networks. We explore the impacts on individuals and their partners plus potential solutions.

Presenter: Gabi Picard

Virtual travel

8.City West and Parramatta

27 May

A virtual walk starting at Sydney Town Hall, we explore historic sites, take a virtual ferry ride along the Parramatta River and finish at Parramatta Female Factory to learn of the horrific story of The Parramatta Girls’ Home.

Presenter: Trevor McAlister

Music

9.The British Invasion

10 Jun

The mid-1960s was a cultural phenomenon when British rock bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones became extremely popular in the United States to the detriment of local artists.

Presenter: Paul Kearney

Photographs

10. Twelve iconic Images of Australia

24 Jun

12 photographs from the 1840s to the early 2000s shows how our country, its people, and the way we view the world, has changed.

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Calligraphy

CALLIGRAPHY (max 18)

Second and Fourth Thursday from 13 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Learn beautiful writing and discover your artist within. A continuing course, no experience necessary but time and effort essential. We alternate with Zoom - first session will be face-to-face.

Leader: Georgie Tuck georginatuck93@gmail.com 9626 1334

Bookings: Deborah Gracic deb.gracic@gmail.com (preferred) 9636 6512

Music Opera

MAGIC MOMENTS IN CLASSICAL MUSIC (max 10)

Second Wednesday from 12 Feb 1:00 to 3:00

Experience the uplifting feeling of listening to music by composers who have been able to express, through their music, feelings and emotions that are otherwise inexpressible. Leader and Bookings: Peter Anderson oeuvres@tpg.com.au (preferred) 0416 019 512

Book Group

BOOK OF THE MONTH (max 20)

Fourth Monday from 24 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Within a dynamic group, we share our reading experience of the book of the month, expand our understanding, enjoy a terrific morning conversation, while learning and, at times, laughing.

Leader and Bookings: Judy McShane judymcs@hotmail.com (preferred) 0419 406 912

Book Group

THRILLERS AND MYSTERIES (max 10)

Fourth Thursday from 27 Feb 12:30 to 2:30

Do you love reading ‘whodunits’? Then join our energetic book club. We take turns in selecting two authors for each month.

Leader and Bookings: Ann Todd anntoddu3a@gmail.com 0428 857 790

Nature

PERMACULTURE: SUSTAINING NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS **NEW **

Second and Fourth Tuesday from 11 March 1:00 to 3:00 (6 sessions)

Experience an engaging exploration of sustainable living through permaculture. Each session will cover essential aspects of leading an eco-friendly lifestyle, including ecology and permaculture principles, ethics and climate issues, soil health and water management.

Leader and Bookings: Michelle Sacco michelesacco@yahoo.com 0411347995

TOONGABBIE: ST ANTHONY’S CHURCH HALL

Aurelia St

Wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby

Games Canasta Mah Jong MONDAY CANASTA AND MAH JONG (Western Style) (max 25)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 1:00 to 3:30 Learn Canasta and Mah Jong (Western Style) in a friendly group: practice, refresh and polish up your skills for both these social games.

Leaders and Bookings: Kerrie Booth boothkerrie@gmail.com 0431 953 419 or June Keith junekeith@optusnet.com.au 0412 040 230

Dance

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE & LINE DANCING (max 30)

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 1:15 to 2:45 (not school holidays)

Strengthen your balance and memory skills by dancing away to the music of the Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba, Tango and more, in this relaxed easy to follow class.

Leader: Bobbie Kersten bobbiekersten@gmail.com (preferred) 0410 873 605

Bookings: Carol Limbo carohlinaalbina@gmail.com (preferred) 0421 618 081

Dance

BALLROOM DANCING (max 30)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 (not school holidays)

Have fun! Learn the basic dancing steps of Latin American, New Vogue and Traditional Ballroom. No partners required.

Leader and Bookings: Cecilia Padlan cbeauty023@gmail.com (preferred) 0415 965 325

EMAIL

Creative Writing

WRITING CREATIVELY (via email)

Second and Fourth Monday from 10 Feb

Learn the skills of transforming experiences into prose and poetry in a friendly, supportive group.

Leader and Bookings: Glennis Henning ghenning1940@gmail.com 0411 108 832

OUT THERE

Movies

THE MOVIE CLUB

First Tuesday from 4 Feb (not school holidays)

View a new release movie at various cinemas, and then enjoy lunch or coffee afterwards to discuss the film. Participants notified of films and locations 1 week prior. Leader and Bookings: Judy Buhagiar judybuh@outlook.com (preferred) 9631 4102

Outdoor Outings

WALKING AROUND GREATER SYDNEY (WAGS)

Second Friday commencing 14 Feb

From easy to medium bushwalks and paved walkways with water, scenic and historical views, stopping for morning tea/ lunch. Walks are organised and lead by different members of the group.

Leader and Bookings: Roslyn McMullen rmrfm12@gmail.com

Outdoor Outings

SYDNEY u3a WESTERN WALKERS (max 20)

Fourth Friday from 28 Feb

From easy to hard grade bush tracks and street walks around Sydney. Explore beautiful and interesting places occasionally by public transport. Maybe lead some walks. Leader and Bookings: Keith Austin panaust@tpg.com.au 0437 537 137 (text only)

PRIVATE HOMES

Desktop Flying

DESK-TOP FLYING FOR SENIORS (Carlingford) (max 6)

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Frustrated aviators can learn to fly/navigate/enjoy scenery on a large screen, from 22,000 airports, using a stable of 180 aircraft. No flying experience necessary.

Leader and Bookings: Keith Manwaring 9872 2907 snrpilot18@gmail.com (preferred)

ANYONE FOR MURDER? (Sth Wentworthville) (max 5)

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:30

Using a selection of films of murder mysteries including sleuths such as Morse, Barnaby, Miss Marple & Hercule Poirot. Episodes of Endeavour, Lewis and Vera included.

Leader and Bookings: Bev Cockburn bevco4@bigpond.com (preferred) 0408 489 804

History World

EXPLORING THE PAST (Sth Wentworthville) (max 5)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 10:00 to 12:30

Video clips and discussion based on various famous people, including biographies and career achievements and events of historic importance.

Leader and Bookings: Bev Cockburn

bevco4@bigpond.com (preferred) 0408 489 804

HARBOURSIDE NORTH

Regional President: Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com

Regional Course Coordinator: Rosemarie Einstein einstein@starmer.net.au

Enquiries only 0412 043 377

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You may need to book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.

HARBOURSIDE NORTH REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers will be held on: Friday 14 March commencing at 2.00 pm at: Northbridge Golf Club

Address: 296c Sailors Bay Road, Northbridge (parking available in the grounds) Followed by afternoon tea, with guest speaker John Tidmarsh

Bookings (by 7 Mar): Rosemarie Einstein einstein@starmer.net.au (preferred) or 0412 043 377 Harbourside North members are encouraged to attend. All Sydney u3a members welcome.

CASTLE COVE: THE RESIDENCES

8B Deepwater Rd off Eastern Valley Way

Parking nearby

Venue Coordinator Barbara Boston barbboston2013@gmail.com (preferred) 9417 2967

Games

MAHJONG WESTERN STYLE

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Join us for MahJong. We use the British rules, without scoring. The first player to get to MahJong wins. Everyone is welcome. Instruction is available. We follow the Mahjong Players Companion by Patricia A Thompson and Betty Maloney, available online.

Leader and Bookings Beverley Morrison bmorrison6@bigpond.com 0417 990 699

TUESDAYS AT CASTLE COVE (max 25)

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 Interesting presentations on various topics on alternate Tuesdays.

Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org or Barbara Boston barbboston2013@gmail.com (preferred) 9417 2967

Film

1. Kubrick: a visual odyssey

11 Feb

A brief look at the film style of Stanley Kubrick, a master movie director. From photographing for ‘Look Magazine’ in the 1950s to 1999, ‘Eyes Wide Shut’, his last movie.

Presenter: Martin Weatherill

Music Opera

2. Favourite opera singers

25 Feb

Anne and Nora have been listening to music all their lives. They will share their favourite singers with you, and tell you why they think those singers are so special.

Presenters: Anne Richardson and Nora Hinchen

Art History

3. A general introduction to the treasures of ancient India

11 Mar

Several world religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam originated or blossomed in India. Indigenous art styles mixed with external cultures, resulted in vivid visual displays in art and architecture

Presenter: Robijn Alexanda

Yoga Culture

4. Yoga: its origins and importance to Indian culture

25 Mar

Yoga postures depicted in art illustrate how yoga emerged by assimilating and incorporating aspects of several religions to present a concept of transformation through body postures and breathing techniques.

Presenter: Robijn Alexanda

History Australia

5. Yellow shadows on a white land

8 Apr

Gordon was born in Australia in the time of the White Australia Policy. He will describe the difficulties experienced by the wives and children of mixed marriages.

Presenter: Gordon Mar

Music

6. You say Goodbye, I say Hello

22 Apr

Arrivals and departures produce some of our deepest emotional moments, frequently reflected in music. From the Beatles to Bocelli, enjoy and discover stories behind some wonderful songs on the themes of hello and goodbye.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Geography

7. Great river systems of the world

6 May

Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilizations they pass through.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Music

8. Celtic connections: the other Celtic world 20 May

We mostly associate Celtic Music with Ireland and Scotland, but its music and communities are much more diverse. Look and listen to the history, locations and sounds of this influential and much-loved music. Presenter: Graham Spindler

History China

9. My father: driver for a Chinese opium warlord 3 Jun

Through my father’s experiences we look at the tumultuous history of China in the 1920s and1930s. Presenter: Lydia Fegan

Art History

10. An introduction to Ancient Egypt and its treasures 17 Jun

The enduring popularity of ancient Egyptian monuments, tombs, temples, and artwork is that these celebrate life and stand as reminders of what once was and what human beings, at their best, are capable of achieving.

Presenter: Robijn Alexanda

CHATSWOOD:

DOUGHERTY

COMMUNITY CENTRE

7 Victor St

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Venue Coordinator Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

Music Recorder

ADVANCED RECORDER

Alternate Mondays from 13 Jan 10:30 to 12:30 Treble, tenor, bass and descant players welcome. Basic sight reading is essential. The emphasis is on playing musically. Leader: Bernie Williams

Bookings: Alice Wheelwright aliswinn1@gmail.com (preferred) 0468 844 852

Language French

FRENCH FOR NEAR BEGINNERS (max 12)

Every Monday from 3 Feb to 24 May 10:30 to 12:30

Can you remember a little high school French? If so, this course is for you. Study basic phrases through topics such as likes and dislikes, hotel bookings and asking the way. This course focuses on conversation. Leader and Bookings: Bridget Miall bridgetmiall@gmail.com (preferred) or 0415 635 989

Music Recorder

INTERMEDIATE RECORDER GROUP

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

This group has some experience playing descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders. This group uses Book 2 of the set tutor Learn to Play the Recorder by Brian Bonsor and plays 5-part music.

Leader and Bookings: Katie Lucy-Smith 0404 839 826

Discussion Group

DISCUSSION GROUP 2

Alternate Thursdays from 6 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

We are a small and friendly group who discuss both local and overseas events. We value all opinions and do not take ourselves too seriously.

Leader and Bookings: Chris Patten chrisfpatten@gmail.com (preferred) 0417 219 847

FRIDAYS AT CHATSWOOD

Fridays from 7 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Interesting presentations on various topics most Fridays. Science Travel

1. A journey through the elements

7 Feb

The people, places and experiences from over fifty years travelling the world as a geologist.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

History Culture

2. A history of the future

14 Feb

For centuries people have attempted to predict how we will live in the future. Many predictions have been stunningly accurate and others just amusing and wide of the mark.

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Bookings: Robert Henderson robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001

Media Culture

3. Stories happen to people who tell them

21 Feb

Chair of the ABC Advisory Council and Women in Media and one of Australia’s most awarded TV producers, Anita’s gift for storytelling allows a glimpse behind the scenes of Australia’s media industry.

Presenter: Anita Jacoby AM

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

Science nature

4. Southern Auroras and Northern lights

28 Feb

Hear about the science behind auroras, some of the associated myths and historical events and find out why there are lots of auroras in 2025.

Presenter: Vicki Moss

Bookings: Robert Henderson robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001

Travel Culture

5. Mongolia and Alaska

7 Mar

This highlights the history, geography, culture, architecture, lifestyles and landscapes of each country, based on the impressions formed when travelling there and research carried out since.

Presenters: Kevin and Glenys Murray

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

History Culture

6. A history of Glebe

28 Mar

Hear about Glebe’s changes throughout every decade since the 1820s and how its heritage was saved. A map for self-guided walks will be provided.

Presenter: Vicki Moss

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

History

7. When Britain bullied China

4 Apr

In early 19th century, barbarians forced their way into the peaceful Celestial Empire. It was the beginning of a century of humiliation for China. How and why did this happen?

Presenter: Gordon Mar

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

History Politics

8. The world without Dr Kissinger – a world in chaos?

11 Apr

Henry Kissinger was a controversial and major historical figure and knowing why he is viewed as divisive is interesting in itself.

Presenter: Harry Melkonian

Bookings: Robert Henderson

robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001

History Culture

9. Korea and Japan

2, 9 May

The Far Eastern states of Japan and Korea represent ancient cultures, individual ways of life and a history of rivalries.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

Health

10. Why we age 23 May

Some insights into the biology of ageing come from observing our cells, but we can also learn a great deal, both positive and negative, from the health and death records from 182 countries.

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Bookings: Robert Henderson robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001

Current Affairs

11. First Nations people and the criminal justice system

30 May

At less than 3% of the population, First Nations people are grossly over-represented in the criminal justice system. Why - and what can be done about it?

Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

Technology

12. Artificial Intelligence – its current state and possible futures

6 Jun

An easy-to-follow introduction to the state of AI in popular culture and the real world, including the arguments about its potential benefits, risks and what the future may hold.

Presenter: Jeff Burgess

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

Science

13. The DNA revolution 13 Jun

The latest revolutionary advances in DNA research and gene editing, and the many ethical issues that result from them.

Presenters: Kevin and Glenys Murray

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

Discussion Group

DISCUSSION GROUP 1

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Would you like to hear some interesting opinions? Do you want to air some of your own? This is a varied group who consider some of the issues of life and living that contribute to our modern existence.

Leader and Bookings: Jill Tukian jill.tukian@me.com (preferred) 0431 053 395

TUESDAYS AT CHATSWOOD

Tuesdays from 18 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Interesting presentations on various topics most Tuesdays.

History Transport

1. A brief history of Sydney tramways

11 Feb

This illustrated talk will cover the development of the extensive steam, cable, horse and electric tramways of Sydney and why the system was abandoned in the mid20th century.

Presenter: Ron Besdansky

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

History Australia

2. Australian Indigenous heritage sites 18 Feb

A well-illustrated introduction to Budj Bim in Victoria, listed in 2019, and Murujuga in Western Australia, to be assessed by the World Heritage Committee in 2025, almost certainly to be listed.

Presenter: Graeme Aplin

Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091

History Australia

3. World Heritage convict sites and Parramatta

Female Factory

25 Feb

There are 11 listed sites in NSW, TAS, WA and Norfolk Island. The Parramatta site was placed on Australia’s Tentative List in 2023 and will probably be nominated in the future.

Presenter: Graeme Aplin

Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 09

Language

4. World of words: grammar, usage and pronunciation

4 Mar

We all have our prejudices, preferences, antipathies, ignorance about “our” native tongue. A journey from Anglo-Saxon English to today’s world language.

Presenter: John Flint

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

Art

5. Grace Crossington Smith

11 Mar

The art of Grace Cossington Smith, one of the most important post-impressionist Australian artists with a great talent for making the everyday look brilliant.

Presenter: Dr Reinhard Ronnebeck

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

History Ancient

6. Medinet Habu: the Mortuary Temple of Ramesses III 18 Mar

Ramesses III built the last of the great mortuary temples at Luxor incorporating a long-standing shrine to Amun-Ra. The temple is a leading source of information about the collapse of the Late Bronze Age.

Presenter: Michael Birrell

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

Music

7. Music, leisure and pleasure in 18th century London

25 Mar

The newly enriched middle class had time and money to indulge in leisure pursuits. How did they spend their time?

Presenter: Nora Hinchen

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

History War

8. The navy at Gallipoli

1 Apr

An overview of WW I in 1914-15 and the role of our RAN ships under the command of the RN. The decision by Churchill to attack Constantinople and stop it joining the AXIS forces.

Presenter: Noel Phelan

Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091

History Culture

9. The Flaneur

15 Apr

The lone stroller on the streets of Paris, Vienna and Berlin in the late 19th and early 20th C who became the cultural symbol of the modern city, and prompted exciting innovations of photography and cinema.

Presenter: Lydia Fegan

Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes

rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091

History Technology

10. Working partners who changed the world

29 Apr

James Watt and Matthew Boulton greatly improved the steam engine and introduced several other important innovations, including in the silverware and coining industries and in workers’ insurance.

Presenter: Debbie Rudder

Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091

History Culture

11. History of the Perigord, France

6 May

A beautiful part of the South west of France, home to painted caves (including Lascaux), medieval castles (from times of English/French rule), foie gras and fine wines.

Presenter: John Walsh

Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091

Travel Outdoors

12. My life cycle

20 May

Roger’s 12 years of long-distance cycling, covering 35,000 kilometres. His trips include one trip across the Nullarbor, three across the US, one across Canada and one in the UK.

Presenter: Roger McDougall

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

Current Affairs

11. Refugee Council of Australia

27 May

A not-for-profit umbrella organisation networking with refugee communities, volunteers and support agencies to settle refugees in Australia, advocating for the support of refugees and asylum seekers, research resettlement options, and more.

Presenter: Deena Yako, Director Community Engagement

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 0407 995 578

History India

14. The history of muslin

3 Jun

The story of muslin in India is one of centuries-old artistic tradition, greed, empire and restoration, of emperors, imperial trading superpowers and powerless artisans, whose unique craft became caught in the web of history.

Presenter: Judy Tenzing

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

History Ancient

15. Ephesus: a Roman metropolis in Western Turkey 10 Jun

The ancient city of Ephesus, on the Aegean coast of Turkey, became an important Hellenistic port and subsequently acquired grand civic structures making it well suited to its role as Roman provincial capital.

Presenter: Michael Birrell

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

Dance

LATIN AND BALLROOM DANCING: SALSA PLUS MORE

Every Friday from 21 Feb 1:00 to 2:30

Join us for some fun and fitness through dancing. No partners required. Start with gentle warm up exercises and basic Salsa. Suitable for all newcomers. Advance to other Latin/ballroom dances with a DanceSport registered coach.

Leader: Nazni Farooq

Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411

Language German REVISITING GERMAN (max 12) **NEW**

Alternate Thursdays from 27 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

A course for learners who studied German in the past and would like to refresh their speaking skills. Focuses on conversation about everyday topics. Materials supplied. Leader and Bookings: Bettina Boss bossbettina3@gmail.com (preferred) 0466 979 460

Language German GERMAN FOR POST BEGINNERS (max 12)

Alternate Thursdays from 27 Feb 1:00 to 3:00

An ongoing course for learners who completed a similar course recently. Focuses on reading short texts and discussing them. Materials supplied.

Leader and Bookings: Bettina Boss bossbettina3@gmail.com (preferred) 0466 979 460

Language French FRENCH GRAMMAR

Mondays from 7 Apr 10:30 to 12:30 (6 sessions)

A basic course on grammar which follows on from the NearBeginners. Having learnt some functional language, you can reinforce your knowledge with a short excursion into the whys and wherefores of French grammar rules.

Leader and bookings: Bridget Miall bridgetmiall@gmail.com (preferred) 0415 635 989

GREENWICH: THE BAYTREE RETIREMENT RESORT

6 Ulonga Ave (Off Innes Rd) Wheelchairaccess, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Maranne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

TUESDAYS AT GREENWICH

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Interesting presentations on various topics.

History Famous People

1. Sir Douglas Mawson: a true Australian hero 4 Feb

Mawson was a geologist, legendary Antarctic explorer, inspiring leader, distinguished academic and effective educator. The talk includes a DVD highlighting his incredible survival in the frozen southern continent.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Science Medical Matters

2. Frontiers of medical imaging

11 Feb

X-rays, CT (computer tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), nuclear medicine and PET (positron emission tomography). Our speaker was involved in important developments for medical ultrasound in Sydney.

Presenter: Adj Prof. Laurie Wilson

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Art

3. Caravaggio and the power of the cinematic image 18 Feb

How a radical painter of the 16th Century changed Italian Baroque Art and how understanding of his images can improve photography.

Presenter: Martin Wetherill

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

History Famous People

4. Nikola Tesla: brilliant engineer but tragic eccentric 25 Feb

Discover the life and accomplishment of the engineer who contributed to the design of the modern alternating current (AC) electricity supply system.

Presenter: Don Napper

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Media

5. New media and the Post-Truth World

4 Mar

A community needs to have access to truthful information if it is to remain stable and prosperous. The new media landscape undermines this need.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Legal Matters

6. Voluntary assisted dying 11 Mar

How we die is important to us. The Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2022 (NSW) gives us new options and the Act’s creation and operation will be discussed.

Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO KC

Bookings: Dianna Brooks dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031

Science

7. Charles Darwin

18 Mar

How Darwin’s observations on his 5 years voyage around the world on the Beagle led him to the concept of evolution and his book, On the Origin of Species

Presenter: Ian Burnet

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Medical Matters

8. Genes and lifestyle: reducing negative ageing

25 Mar

As we live, many changes occur in our bodies e.g. our blood vessels lose elasticity and our bones shrink. To what extent can we reduce such changes with healthy lifestyles?

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Travel

9. Impressions of Siberia and Russia

1 Apr

We share our experiences travelling from Vladivostok to St Petersburg, exploring the fascinating history, geography, culture, architecture, lifestyles and landscapes of Siberia and Russia.

Presenters: Kevin and Glenys Murray

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Language

10. The world of words - changing English

8 Apr

Grammar, usage, pronunciation – Sharing our prejudices, preferences, antipathies and ignorance.

Presenter: John Flint

Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056

Drama

11. David Williamson – a view to die for 15 Apr

An overview of Australia’s best-known playwright concentrating on plays covering two themes: Sydney real estate and death choices.

Presenters: Nora Hinchen

Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056

Literature

12. Is Shakespeare still relevant today?

29 Apr

Examination of some of the greatest passages from Shakespeare’s plays to discover whether his insights of the human condition are as contemporary as they were 400 years ago.

Presenter: Andrew Caro

Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056

Science Nature

13. Extraordinary eyes and how animals see the world

6 May

For us the world can be a stunning place, but what is it like for members of the animal kingdom, and what function does colour serve for them?

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031

History

14. Fearless engagements in the two World Wars

13 May

1. The Navy at Gallipoli: Heroic assistance provided by RAN ships under the command of the RN.

2. The Miracle of D-Day: Overview of the politics, planning and technical execution of the ‘Second Front’ during WWII.

Presenter: Noel Phelan

Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031

History

15. Winston Churchill

20 May

Politician, leader and statesman during the turbulent times of the Boer War, the First and Second World Wars. Glimpse into his life through his mistakes, triumphs, personal struggles and inspirational speeches.

Presenter: Jennifer Sansom

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Music

16. The musical theatre - a celebration

27 May

An overview of the musical theatre from a historical perspective from the early days to the present.

Presenter: Graham Ball

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Art Appreciation

17. Mathematics in Art

3 Jun

From the Renaissance to the work of M C Escher, mathematical principles have inspired many breakthroughs in the visual arts.

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Travel Culture

18. Finland

10 Jun

It is a land sculpted by ice, with 168,000 lakes and 179,000 islands. A light-hearted (and musical) look at this exotic country, whose 5.5 million people have been voted the world’s happiest for the seventh year.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

History

19. Isfahan: Pearl of Islam 17 Jun

The Safavid era (c.1500-1720) witnessed the birth of modern Iran. Its capital, Isfahan, with its exquisite pavilions, vast bazaars and ornate mosques is one of the most dazzling and perfectly preserved Islamic cities.

Presenter: John Tidmarsh

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

Current Affairs

20. China: an ancient civilization’s rise to become a superpower 24 Jun

China is the world’s oldest continuing civilization. It still maintains fascinating cultural traditions as it takes on the world.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343

HUNTERS HILL: C A FAIRLAND HALL

14 Church St parking nearby Venue Coordinator Judy Harris judyaharris222@gmail.com (preferred) 0447 194 510

MONDAYS AT HUNTERS HILL

Every Monday from 20 Jan 10:30 to 12:30

Interesting presentations on various topics each Monday. Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org or Judy Harris judyaharris222@gmail.com (preferred) 0447 194 510

Legal Matters

1. Understanding Australian Law 20 Jan

A brief introduction to Australia law, a prelude to the 6-week June course; how the system works, rule of law, judges, juries, barristers, solicitors.

Presenter: David Hirsch

History Current Affairs

2. The world without Dr Henry Kissinger

3 Feb

Dr Kissinger ended the Yom Kippur War, disengaged the USA from Vietnam, opened relations with China and achieved detente with Russia. Given today’s troubled world, could he have done better?

Presenter: Dr Harry Melkonian

History Religion

3. The Bible timeline (1)

10 Feb

The Bible Timeline Chart shows how the books of the Bible fit together to tell the story of creation, Adam and Eve, Christ and the Church.

Presenter: Charbel Raisch

History Religion

4. The Bible timeline (2)

17 Feb

The Bible Timeline Chart identifies and arranges key people, places and events of Sacred Scripture in chronological order, helping to illustrate the bible’s “big picture.

Presenter: Charbel Raisch

Food History

5. Dining with dictators

24 Feb

The culinary habits of Fidel Castro, Hitler, Stalin and Saddam Hussein; their eccentricities, table talk, manners, gastro-intestinal issues, some of their favourite dishes and their frequent terror of poisoning.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Food History

6. Pub with no beer: Coffee palaces in Australia

3 Mar

The term “coffee palace” was primarily used in Australia to describe the temperance hotels, built during the latter part of the 19th century, that did not serve alcohol.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Art

7. Inside artists’ houses

10 Mar

Take a peek inside the homes of well-known artists, both here and overseas for an intimate tour of an artist’s works, materials and processes.

Presenter: Ann Sutherland

Medical Matters

8. Music and emotional development

17 Mar

This presentation will endeavour to elucidate how music evokes and calms emotions using insights from evolutionary theory, history and brain research.

Presenter: Assoc Prof John Brennan

Medical Matters

9. What is autism

24 Mar

Autism is a spectrum of neurobiological disorders that are a consequence of genetic and environmental factors impacting the developing brain. It can affect social development and can paradoxically result in superior abilities.

Presenter: Assoc Prof John Brennan

Science

10. A history of the future

31 Mar

Over many centuries, people have attempted to predict how we will live. Many of these predictions have been stunningly accurate, others very wide of the mark.

Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Science

11. ET where are you?

7 Apr

The possibilities for life outside the earth, our attempts to discover or contact it and the ways in which we might become aware of such life.

Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Legal Matters

12. What happens to children in the Family Court process

14 Apr

Adults complain about delays and bias in the Federal Circuit and Family Court but what is it like for the children caught in the middle?

Presenter: Rhondda Shaw

Science

13. Einstein’s Theory of Relativity in everyday terms

28 Apr

Einstein explained, for the first time, how the fabric of the universe is distorted under extreme conditions at very high speeds and with strong gravity (includes visual demonstration).

Presenter: Ian Bryce

History Current Affairs

14. Why are Americans so divided?

5, 12 May

The 250 years of American history may help us find the answers.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Music

15. A history of 20th Century music

19 May

Diversification of music including development in classical music, jazz, film, country and R & R, pioneered by composers ranging from Stravinsky to John Williams.

Presenter: Graham Ball

Science History

16. Iconic Australian inventions of our time

26 May

A look at the people and science behind some of our classical Australian discoveries and inventions from the 19th century colonial era through to our present time.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Health Medical Matters

17. Health seminar: Heart Research Institute

2 Jun

Information on cardiovascular disease, how to take care of your heart and the warning signs of heart ill health.

Presenter: Andrea Natoli

Legal Matters

18. Understanding Australian law 16, 23, 30 Jun, 7, 14, 21 Jul

Where laws come from, how the system works, legal dimensions of current events including the: Australian Constitution, rule of law, judges, juries, barristers, solicitors, how trials are run, the principles of evidence, crime, contracts, negligence, human rights, and international law.

Presenter: David Hirsch

LANE COVE: LIVING AND LEARNING CENTRE

180 Longueville Rd Venue Coordinator Vanessa Follett vfollett@ozemail.com.au 9433 8066

Book Group

BOOK GROUP

Every fourth Monday from 13 Jan 10:30 to 12:30 Group discussion enhances our appreciation of the book read. New members welcome.

Leader: Lyndell Ford

Bookings: Vanessa Follett 0490 652 292

MCMAHONS POINT: COMMUNITY CENTRE

165 Blues Point Rd Wheelchair access bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Emaunela Carniato ellabellamtgambier@gmail.com (preferred) 0449 823 066

Music Keyboard KEYBOARD FOR BEGINNERS (max 8) **NEW**

Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Play simple melodies using tone bank and autobeat. Create your own pentatonic music using the black keys. Bring your own 4 octave keyboards or use one of ours.

Leader and Bookings: Tina Roberts 0412 636 794

Book Group

BOOK GROUP

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 This group chooses 10 novels per semester to read (both classics and modern), and enjoys a lively discussion on those books. New members welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Toni McLennan 9412 1585

MOSMAN ART GALLERY

Cnr Myahgah Rd and Art Gallery Way

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Annika Tults annikatults@gmail.com

0404 254 009

Publishing SELF-PUBLISHING YOUR BOOK

Tuesday 18 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Family or local history, memoir or biography, novel or cookbook: are you ready to publish? Hear about formatting your manuscript, layout, book size, photos, charts, maps and editing. Cover design, registering your book, preparing print specification, quotes, quantities and marketing.

Leader and Bookings: Margaret Szalay margaret@cremorne1.com 9904 1829

MONDAYS AT THE ART GALLERY

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Interesting presentations on various topics each Monday. No booking required

Environment

1. Tackling Climate Change 2025 – Insights from the Pilgrims Progress

3 Feb

Addressing global heating in 2025, through the lens of JohnBunyan’s 1687 classic about one man’s journey to reach adesired goal in the face of overwhelming challenges, despondency, distractions, false promises, and misinformation.

Presenter: Dr Warren Yates

Technology

2. Should every household install solar and battery?

10 Feb

An overview of what is happening in our transition to renewables and how we can embrace the important role of rooftop solar and batteries in reaching our target of net zero by 2050.

Presenter: Graeme Jessup

Medical Matters

3. Medical device regulation: tales from the TGA 17 Feb

How medical device regulation has evolved in Australia and the world. Challenges included heart valves, joint replacements, AID’s, and devices which impacted women e.g. breast implants, vaginal mesh, IUD’s.

Presenter: Dr Derrick Beech

Literature

4. Rhyme and reason: political satire and nursery rhymes

24 Feb

Author, Susan Ackroyd, shows how nursery rhymes were formed as political comments in mediaeval ages and are still cited today without awareness of the past political comments.

Presenter: Susan Ackroyd

History Current Affairs

5. Mosman Council: community, history, governance

3 Mar

Dr Peter Ableson is a retired professor of Economics at Macquarie University and was on the Mosman council for 13 years, seven years as Mayor.

Presenter: Dr Peter Ableson

Photography

6. Twelve images which made Australia

10 Mar

Twelve photographs from the 1840’s to the early 2000’s show how our country, its people, the way we view the world and how photographic technology has changed.

Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Food History

7. Dining with the 20th century’s most notorious tyrants

17 Mar

An investigation into what some of the world’s most notorious twentieth century despots have enjoyed at their dinner table - favourite dishes, eccentricities, table talk, manners, addictions and frequent fear of poisoning.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Aviation

8. Flight to resilience: navigating life’s challenges

24 Mar

This is a journey of resilience drawing from experience as an air force and Qantas pilot. Explore the power of remaining calm in the face of adversity and the importance of preparation.

Presenter: Richard de Crespigny

Economics Ethics

9. Money laundering

31 Mar

What is money laundering and what is the reported financial impact on the Australian and the global economy? Hear from a professional ‘anti-money-laundering specialist’.

Presenter: Elizabeth Goodbody

Music

10. Femicide: ancient tragedy through the opera narrative

7 Apr

The term “femicide” is new, but its roots are ancient. Literature and opera from Verdi’s Otello to Bizet’s Carmen often depict love turning into possessiveness and destruction. But is it truly love that kills?

Presenter: Aida Manouchehrpour

Politics Current Affairs

11. New media and the Post-Truth world

14, 28 Apr

A community needs to have access to truthful information if it is to remain stable and prosperous. The new media landscape undermines this need.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Science Technology

12. Glass

5 May

Glass has a long history of being used in everyday things, from windows to Windows, beautiful objects, scientific instruments, and a few devices that might surprise you.

Presenter: Debbie Rudder

Medical Matters

13. Transforming women’s maternal health in Africa

12 May

Andrew has dedicated his life to restoring the health and dignity of women in Africa who have survived a horrendous and preventable injury – obstetric fistula.

Presenter: Dr Andrew Browning

Science Nature

14. Extraordinary eyes and how animals see the world 19 May

For us, the world can be a stunning place, but what is it like for other members of the animal kingdom? What function does colour serve for them.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Science Technology

15. Nikola Tesla 26 May

Nikola Tesla was a brilliant inventor but a tragic eccentric, who died a pauper after being a millionaire.

Presenter: Don Napper

Medical Matters

16. How does gut health affect the immune system? 2 Jun

The more diverse the bacteria in our gut, the better our immunity as 70% of our immune cells reside in our gut. Learn how to strengthen your immune system with simple changes to your diet.

Presenter: Gayle Nelson

Medical Matters

17. Skin is the largest organ of the human body 16 Jun

The skin is a very complex structure, we look at the aspects of the skin colour, its multitude of functions, diseases, and treatment regimens; old and new.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Philosophy Psychology

18. Physics of the mind: exploring our very essence 23 Jun

Our brain is made up of atoms, but is consciousness a spark of something else? What are freewill and consciousness? Where does ethics come from? Can we construct our own morality?.

Presenter: Ian Bryce

History Europe

19. Evolution of modern European nation states 30 Jun

City states, kingdoms, empires, provinces, feudal states, and principalities have regularly coalesced and fragmented over the centuries to finally form the nations of Europe as we know them today.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

MOSMAN: THE GARRISON

13 Spit Road (enter from Punch Street) Wheelchair access, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Jenny Rudd O’Neill

Writing

DEVELOPING YOUR MEMORIES (max 15)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Using memories and stories from our past, we discuss then write pieces that might be for a memoir, a biography, or just for the pleasure of creative writing. We are a friendly, supportive group.

Leader: Jenny Rudd O’Neill jennyruddoneill@gmail.com

Bookings: Pamela Tilbrook pamelatilbrook@optusnet.com.au (preferred) 0413 377 212

THE MANORS OF MOSMAN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

6 Hale Rd, off Military Rd Wheelchair access Venue Coordinator Margaret Kropman margaretk14@gmail.com (preferred) 0434 839 172

Discussion Group Current Affairs

TOPICAL ISSUES DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

We cover local and international topics in the news. At every meeting we discuss two topics chosen by the group at the previous meeting, we hear short introductions then keep our mental engines running in a friendly and diverse group.

Leader: Peter Trout

Bookings: Margaret Kropman margaretk14@gmail.com (preferred) 0434 839 172

Discussion Group Book Group LITERARY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

This friendly group meets once a fortnight to discuss a variety of demanding literature including poetry, drama and non-fiction.

Leader: Mary Billing

Bookings: Elisabeth Kingsford Smith 0408 703 373

MOSMAN SQUARE SENIORS CENTRE

Next to Mosman Council Chambers

Off Military Rd, Spit Junction

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com

WEDNESDAYS AT MOSMAN SQUARE

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Interesting presentations on various topics each Wednesday.

No booking required

History Maritime

1. The navy at Gallipoli & the miracle of D-Day 5 Feb

Hear about the complex role played by the navy in these two momentous events.

Presenter: Noel Phelan

History Australia

2. Sir Douglas Mawson – a true Australian hero

12 Feb

We look at Mawson the man, his scientific legacy and his exploits, followed by a film re-enactment of his horrendous journey in the Antarctic.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

Food History

3. From Slippery Bob to Baba Ghanoush 19 Feb

Our cuisine is shaped by our history. We trace the development of European food consumption in Australia from the arrival of the convict ships in 1788 to the present day.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

History Culture

4. Le Flaneur – 19th and early 20th Century stroller

26 Feb

Follow the “flaneur” - a distinctive stroller, who became the cultural symbol of the modern city, prompting exciting inventions of photography and cinema. Were there any women strollers, or “flaneuses”?

Presenter: Lydia Fegan

Health

5. An Introduction to kinesiology

5 Mar

Kinesiology seeks the causes of poor health –conscious reasons describe the symptoms and unconscious reactions reveal the root causes, enabling better treatment.

Presenter: Steve Powell

History Middle East

6. The story of Arabs (Part 1)

12 Mar

The Arabs founded Islam and defeated the old empires of west Asia. The world benefited immensely by their efforts to preserve old world knowledge.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

History Middle East

7. The story of Arabs (Part 2)

19 Mar

The Turks and Mongols invaded and destabilised the Arab rule, then Britain and France induced fragmentation. The quest for ‘Arab Unity’ remains an elusive dream.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

Travel

8. The most scenic train journeys in the world

26 Mar

As train travel is getting more popular, we look at the best scenic railway journeys in the world, plus a glimpse into some superfast trains.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Science Famous People

9. The life and work of Sir Isaac Newton (1642 – 1727)

2 Apr

A look at the astonishing life of this incredible man. The Genius of Woolsthorpe -scientist, mathematician and astronomer.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

History

10. Isfahan: Pearl of Islam

9 Apr

The brilliant Safavid era (c. 1500 – 1720) witnessed the beginnings of modern Iran with its capital, Isfahan, one of the most dazzling and perfectly preserved cities of the Islamic world.

Presenter: John Tidmarsh

History

11. ‘Princes and fleas’. Qajar rule and the formation of modern Iran

16 Apr

Despite widespread poverty and corruption, during the 19th century, Persian art and architecture broke away from many of their earlier constraints, and the foundations of contemporary Iran were established.

Presenter: John Tidmarsh

Music Singing

12. Favourite singers

23 Apr

Anne and Nora have been listening to classical music all their lives. They share some of their favourite singers with you.

Presenters: Nora Hinchen, Anne Richardson

History Maritime

13. A history of lighthouses

30 Apr

The history and development of lighthouses around the world, plus a look at some lighthouses along the NSW coast. The location and uses of navigation lights within Sydney Harbour.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Energy

14. Storing electricity

7 May

Renewable electricity is abundant, but unpredictable in its availability. This means we have to store it, lots of it. This talk reviews the options and the considerable progress in NSW.

Presenter: Robert Eales

Art Appreciation

15. Outsider art

14 May

A journey along the trails of creativity, madness and outsider art. Why, for example, did Sidney Nolan admire these outsider artists? And what about women? Is the term relevant today!

Presenter: Lydia Fegan

History Australia

16. Building the Darling Harbour Freeway – challenges and intrigues

21 May

Darling Harbour was one of Sydney’s earliest transportation/industrial/engineering/commercial hubs. Max was a Construction Engineer between 1974 – 1979, when Jack Mundey and the “greenies” were active.

See Events for the walking tour of Darling Harbour on 22 May.

Presenter: Max Underhill

Food History

17. Pub with no beer: coffee palaces in Australia

28 May

The rise and demise of coffee palaces in the 19th century associated with the temperance movement, a movement of cultural significance.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Literature

18. Introduction to the literary works of J M Coetzee

4 Jun

An overview of the literary works of J M Coetzee, the Nobel-prize-winning author of numerous novels including two that have won the Booker Prize, Life & Times of Michael K and Disgrace

Presenter: Sue Kossew

Economics

19. Does capitalism produce both prosperity and freedom for individuals?

11, 18 Jun

Nobel Prize winner in economics, Joseph Stiglitz asks this question in his latest book. We dissect his answer

Presenter: Peter Nixon

History Current Affairs

20. The world without Dr Kissinger 25 Jun

We will discuss Dr Kissinger’s many foreign policy achievements and, looking at today’s troubled world and ask what would he be doing now?

Presenter: Harry Melkonian

WILLOUGHBY: HYEGROVE DISPLAY SUITE

44 Penshurst St

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Rohan Kirby rohan@hyegrove.com.au (preferred) 0475 775 000

FRIDAYS AT WILLOUGHBY

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 Interesting presentations on various topics every second Friday.

Bookings: Rohan Kirby rohan@hyegrove.com.au (preferred) 0475 775 000

History Ancient

1. A selection of treasures introducing Ancient Egypt

7 Feb

Ancient Egyptian monuments, tombs, temples, and artwork celebrate life and stand as reminders of what once was and of human creativity on a grand scale.

Presenter: Robijn Alexanda

Travel Transport

2. The most scenic railway journeys in the world 21 Feb

As train travel is getting more popular with tourists, we look at the best scenic railway journeys in the world, plus a glimpse into some superfast trains.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Health

3. Cardiovascular health

7 Mar

Learn about heart health and have your questions answered by the Heart Research Institute team.

Presenters: Andrea Natoli, Katrina Dowling, Professor Julie McMullen

History Technology

4. (i) The golden age of steam (ii) The miracle of D-day

21 Mar

(i) The wonders of steam power (ii) The miracle of logistics behind D-day.

Presenter: Noel Phelan

History

5. Pioneering aviation in the Pacific Islands

4 Apr

From Kingsford Smith’s landing in Fiji, hear about the people who pioneered aviation and the strength of character needed to fly tiny aircraft to remote islands.

Presenter: Andrew Drysdale

History Religion

6. The house divided

2 May

At the heart of the Middle East, with its conflicts and proxy wars, is a 1400-year-old schism between Sunni and Shia. How did this come about?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

History Ancient

7. Gods and goddesses of Ancient Egypt: an introduction

16 May

From the earliest times, statues in Ancient Egypt were crafted to serve as a home for a spirit or a god and were connected to the sky, water, and land.

Presenter: Robijn Alexanda

Forensic Science

8. An Introduction to forensic science

30 May

The history of forensic science across a number of disciplines, including forensic anthropology, and a study of forensic entomology - the use of insects in the investigation of criminal matters.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Geography

9. The great river systems on our planet

13 Jun

Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilizations they pass through.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

History Technology

10. The three Industrial Revolutions and the impending fourth

27 Jun

The machine age, the combustion engine, and today’s digital age, along with the impending fourth.

Presenter: Emeritus Prof Don Napper

OUT THERE

Outdoors Eating out

THIRD FRIDAY LUNCH GROUP

Third Friday from 21 Feb

We meet for lunch at restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. We go everywhere in Sydney, except the North Shore. We try to book BYO wine venues where there is a small corkage charge, which attendees are required to pay. Leader and Bookings: Sarah Fennamore sfennamore@yahoo.com 9955 1962

NORTHERN BEACHES

Regional President: Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com Enquiries only

Regional Course Coordinator: TBA

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.

NORTHERN BEACHES REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers will be held on Thursday 6 March commencing at 11:00 at: The Dutch Club

1 Grattan Crescent (off Bantry Bay Road), Frenchs Forest 2086

Doors open from 10:30 for examination of reports and minutes from last meeting. Nomination forms for committee roles will be included in the Sydney u3a Northern Beaches newsletter and website nearer the date.

Guest speaker: TBA

A light lunch will be provided. RSVP by Friday 21 Feb to Brenda Fuller bfuller@iinet.net.au or 9971 5280

AVALON RECREATION CENTRE

59 Old Barrenjoey Rd wheelchair access, parking nearby Venue Coordinator Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com 0455 948 864

Art

ART GROUPS (max 12)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 11:00 to 3:00 Enjoy the company of other artists with varying levels of skill. Bring your own equipment (any medium). No tuition given.

Leader: Gen Watts genwatts@hotmail.com

Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com

BALGOWLAH: CLUB TOTEM

195 Condamine St wheelchair access, parking onsite Venue Coordinator Sandra Orton sandraorton038@gmail.com

Book Group

LITERATURE

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 11:00 to 1:00 Washaway Room Level 3

A wide range of authors and their books are discussed. These include Anything is Possible by Elizabeth Strout, Wifedom by Anna Funder, Prophet Song by Paul Lynch, 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World by Elif Shafak and Yellowface by Rebecca Kuang.

Leader: Sandra Orton sandraorton038@gmail.com 0460 795 959

Bookings: Janelle Laidlaw janelledorothylaidlaw@gmail.com 0418 436 127

BELROSE BOWLING CLUB

146 Forest Way parking onsite

Venue Coordinator Peter Nixon pnixon0443@gmail.com 0402 379 109

Games Bowls

ENJOY A GAME OF BOWLS

Every Friday from 7 Mar 10:00 to 12:00 (3 sessions)

Learn to play bowls and have fun with friends. Equipment provided and coaches on hand. Just come along, bring a friend or two and enjoy a game over three Friday mornings.

Leader and Bookings: Peter Nixon pnixon0443@gmail.com 0402 379 109

FORESTVILLE RSL CLUB

22 Melwood Ave

wheelchair access, parking onsite Venue Coordinator Beth Robertson bethrobertson@aapt.net.au

Craft

CRAFT IN THE FOREST

Alternate Fridays from 31 Jan 10:00 to 12:00 Bistro

Join our inspirational group of craft enthusiasts for a relaxing morning of chat and the sharing of new skills. No prior knowledge expected, only the love of learning new creative ideas.

Leader and Bookings: Beth Robertson bethrobertson@aapt.net.au 9452 2396

FRENCHS FOREST: LIONEL WATTS

COMMUNITY CENTRE

93-95 Blackbutts Rd

wheelchair access, parking nearby

Venue Coordinator John Watt john@wattever.com 0407 547 583

FRIDAYS IN THE FOREST

Last Friday from 28 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

A monthly program of separate presentations on a wide variety of topics given by people with expertise in, and enthusiasm for, their subject. Something for everyone.

Leader: John Watt john@wattever.com (preferred) 0407 547 583

Bookings not required

History Food

1. Hoosh, dogs and seal meat

28 Feb

How come Norway’s Roald Amundsen was first to plant his flag at the South Pole and Captain Scott missed out? Diana Noyce returns to look at the vital role food played.

Speaker: Diana Noyce

Music Appreciation

2. Behind the Beatles

28 Mar

Enjoy some fabulous Beatles’ music and find out the unexpected stories behind the songs.

Speaker: Graham Spindler

25 Apr No meeting (Anzac Day)

Current Affairs

3. What’s on your mind?

30 May

Master communicator Peter Nixon will reveal all at our meeting today. So, don’t miss it!

Speaker: Peter Nixon

History

4. Weird and not so wonderful histories

27 Jun

An irreverent look at some of history’s events – a morning of chuckles at the lighter side of history.

Speaker: Harvey Broadbent

FRENCHS FOREST: THE DUTCH CLUB

1 Grattan Cres (off Bantry Bay Rd)

wheelchair access, parking onsite

Venue Coordinator John Peters jayefpe@hotmail.com 0412 161 069

Music Ukulele

UKULELE INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED

Every Tuesday from 28 Jan 1:30 to 3:30

If you have learnt at least six basic chords, now is the time to move to or join this group. Lots of fun, strumming, singing and an opportunity to gain confidence in leading a song.

Leader and Bookings: John Peters jayefpe@hotmail.com 0412 161 069

NARRABEEN: TRAMSHED ARTS AND COMMUNITY CENTRE

1395A Pittwater Rd

wheelchair access, parking nearby

Venue Coordinator Marcia Andrews marciaandrews711@hotmail.com

Current Affairs

TOPICS OF OUR TIMES (max 25)

Alternate Tuesdays from 28 Jan 2:00 to 4:00

Berry Hall

Discussions about a wide spectrum of contemporary issues with the aim to deepen our knowledge and understanding. Members are encouraged to submit topics and actively participate in the discussions. However you are welcome to simply listen.

Leader: Antoine van de Walle antoinevdwalle@gmail.com 8056 7882

Bookings: Peggy Crocker fripeg@optusnet.com.au 9975 6828

Yoga

YOGA AND RELAXATION

Every Thursday from 30 Jan 10:15 to 11:45

Lakeview Hall

Every class consists of basic yoga practice, breathing and deep relaxation which will help improve joint mobility, increase muscle flexibility and bone density.

Leader: Maryanne Deans Kolek

Bookings: Liz Kelly liz@lizkelly.id.au

Art Drawing and Painting

ART: PAINTING AND DRAWING IN ANY MEDIUM

Every Monday from 3 Feb 1:00 to 4:00

Berry Hall

We are a happy group of painters who paint in their medium of choice, yet still dabble in other mediums. Newcomers are welcome but there is a waiting list.

Leader: June Rodden june@rodden.net 9402 4550

Bookings: Narelle Harvey nel11@bigpond.com 0447 865 657

Discussion Group Movies

MONDAY AT THE MOVIES - MAM

First Monday from 3 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

Lakeview Hall

Enjoy current movies? Our movie club operates similar to a book club. Every month view up to three nominated movies in your own time and join us for a stimulating discussion about the plot, actors, producers and cinematography. Decide your own ratings.

Leader and Bookings: Liz Boase lizzyboasebruce@gmail.com 0413 736 331

Music

PIANO/KEYBOARD FOR BEGINNERS **NEW**

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 (5 sessions)

Berry Hall

Play simple melodies, using tone bank and auto beat. Create your own pentatonic music using the black keys. (Bring your own 4 octave keyboard with batteries/ extension cord. Kindly assist with setting up and packing up.)

Leader and Bookings: Tina Roberts tinaroberts14@yahoo.com.au 0412 636 794

Language French

ADVANCED FRENCH

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Berry Hall

Advanced conversation in French based on a text and tape. Leader: Wendy Clark scorpio39@bigpond.com 9913 9807

Bookings: Maureen Black maureengb192@gmail.com 9982 7149

Theatre

THEATRE TALKS WITH DIANA **NEW**

Second Thursday from 13 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 Lakeview Hall

Plays are the stories of our lives as told by playwrights. We look at how comedy and tragedy lasts the test of time. Diana brings these plays to life in an entertaining and informative way for her audience.

Leader: Diana Pheils pheilsdiana@gmail.com 0400 623 799

Bookings not required

Music

PIANO/KEYBOARD LEVEL 1 **NEW**

Every Wednesday from 12 Mar 10:30 to 12:30 (5 sessions)

Berry Hall

Play two hands together, reading Treble and Bass notation. Provide a wish play list as a goal. Create your own pentatonic music using the black keys. (Bring your own 4 octave keyboard with batteries/ extension cord. Kindly assist with setting up and packing up.)

Leader and Bookings: Tina Roberts tinaroberts14@yahoo.com.au 0412 636 794

NARRABEEN NORTH: NARRABEEN BAPTIST CHURCH

13 Grenfell Ave (cnr Wakehurst Parkway) wheelchair access, parking onsite Venue Coordinator Barbara Bohm jeddasam1@bigpond.com 9913 3481

Art Painting

THURSDAY ART GROUP

Every Thursday from 30 Jan 1:00 to 4:00 Education Centre GF

For those who enjoy putting paint on canvas or paper via your preferred medium join our relaxed group. With varying levels of skill, we work on our own projects and commonly share techniques, ideas and information which is welcomed by all.

Leader: Alf Silvester a.silvester@optusnet.com.au 0493 043 111

Bookings: Barbara Tuna 0407 513 045 text only

Music Singing

SINGING FOR THE JOY OF SINGING

Alternate Fridays from 31 Jan 10:00 to 12:00 Auditorium

We have fun singing well-known songs from all genres. Anyone who enjoys singing, irrespective of ability, is welcome to join our friendly group to sing, hum along or just sit and listen.

Leader and Bookings: Lynne Wasinski lynne.wasinski@gmail.com 0408 971 060

Philosophy

HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY 5

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Education Centre GF

We cover key ancient and modern Western philosophers covering metaphysics, theory of knowledge, ethics and politics. The focus of the course is life’s meaning as considered by these thinkers.

Leader and Bookings: John Lauricella jml1010@yahoo.com 9918 2142

Music Ukulele UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 11:45 to 1:00 (except school holidays) Level 1, Room 2

This course is for rank beginners. If you have always wanted to play a musical instrument, this is the place for you. You will learn the main chords, have great fun playing and singing. Come along and have a go!

Leader and Bookings: Felicity Davis felicity@sciencefilms.com.au 0414 470 644

Music Guitar ACOUSTIC GUITAR GROUP (un-pluggers)

First three Wednesdays from 5 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 Level 1, Room 2

The group will continue building a repertoire of classic soft rock/blues acoustic pieces. Only basic skills with guitar chords and following lyric/chord charts are needed. Bring own guitar and music stand. Due to popularity, places are limited.

Leader and Bookings: Claudie Moffat cmof5582@bigpond.net.au 0411 270 037

Music Performance THE 3RD AGE ROCK ORCHESTRA

First three Wednesdays from 5 Feb 2:00 to 5:00 Auditorium

The orchestra plays classic rock music with singers and post-beginners on all instruments. Basic skills with following chord charts are needed. Reading music is an advantage. The orchestra performs a few times a year. At present there are vacancies for strings, brass and woodwind.

Leader and Bookings: Harvey Broadbent 3rdagerockorchestra@gmail.com 0414 486 675

Language Latin LATIN BEGINNERS I (max 10)

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 9:30 to 11:30 (8 sessions)

Education Centre GF

Continuation of Latin Beginners I Course including Classical Latin grammar, sentence formation and vocabulary through exercises and readings with the objective of introducing you to Latin literary texts. New members accepted only if have studied sufficient Latin previously, e,g, at school.

Text: The Oxford Latin Course Part 1 - Student Book (ISBN 9780 19912264)

Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170

Philosophy

HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY 6

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

Auditorium

We cover key ancient and modern Western philosophers covering metaphysics, theory of knowledge, ethics and politics. The focus of the course is life’s meaning as considered by these thinkers.

Leader and Bookings: John Lauricella jml1010@yahoo.com 9918 2142

Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE I (max 10)

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 12:30 to 2:30 (8 sessions)

Education Centre GF Continuation course (for 2024 students) covering Classical Latin grammar and vocabulary through exercises and readings with the inclusion of Latin literary texts. Text: The Oxford Latin Course Part II Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170

Language French FRENCH POST BEGINNERS/INTERMEDIATE

Alternate Fridays from 14 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Education Centre GF Easy going course suitable for people with a basic knowledge of French Grammar. Not suitable for beginners or for people who have not opened a French book since school. Book to be used is French Made Simple by Pamela Rose Haze. Leader and Bookings: Olivia Kesby olivia.kesby@gmail.com 0401 303 472

NARRABEEN NORTH: NARRABEEN RSL CLUB

116 Nareen Pde parking onsite

Games Croquet CROQUET (max 20)

Every Tuesday from 28 Jan 8:30 to 12:00 Bowling Green

Teaching available on request. No partner required. Mallets supplied. Games are organised on a first come basis. Class currently full, new players will be added to a waiting list.

Leader: Bob Hunter 9970 7352 Bookings: Jill Barrett jillb45@hotmail.com

NEWPORT COMMUNITY CENTRE

11-13 The Boulevard wheelchair access, parking nearby No public or school holidays

Venue Coordinator Helen Howes helsim@internode.on.net 0424 464 047

Qigong

QIGONG

Every Monday from 3 Feb 9:30 to 10:30 Main Hall

Reconnect with nature via this gentle, moving meditation originating in China. Relaxes the joints, aids digestion and sleep, calms the mind and gently tones and strengthens muscles. Work at your own level.

Leader and Bookings: Penny Auburn penauburn@gmail.com

Yoga

YOGA AND RELAXATION

Every Monday from 3 Feb 12:30 to 2:00 Main Hall

Every class consists of basic yoga practice, breathing and deep relaxation which will help improve joint mobility, increase muscle flexibility and bone density.

Teacher: Maryanne Deans Kolek

Leader and Bookings: Susan Barnard susanbarnard@iinet.net.au

Art Painting

ART CLASS WITH KAYE DEXTER

Every Monday from 3 Feb 1:00 to 4:00

Activity Rooms 1 and 2

This acrylics class enjoys using different techniques and styles. We bring our own equipment.

Leader: Kaye Dexter kdexter@bigpond.net.au

Bookings: Robyn Mayman peter@maymans.com 9918 2941

TOPICS OF INTEREST

First Wednesday from 5 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Main Hall

Come and join a friendly group to experience separate presentations by people who are experts in or have enthusiasm for their subjects, covering a wide variety of topics from science, history, travel, the arts, social justice and some quirky topics.

Leader: Margaret White marg.white@me.com 0416 182 393

Bookings not required

Technology

1. AI is rapidly changing our thinking!

5 Feb

How far has AI changed in the past year? What influence has it on us now?

Presenter: Michelle Moffatt

History Asia

2. Life in the Imperial Turkish Harems

5 Mar

The Turkish harem was operated for five centuries by women and eunuchs. It became a political power base of the Turkish Ottoman Empire. Hear its myths and legends!

Presenter: Cindy Davies

Indigenous Australians

3. First Nations people and the criminal justice system

2 Apr

With less than 3% of the population, First Nations people are grossly over-represented in the criminal justice system. Why?

Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery

Art History

4. The power of art

7 May

How do monarchs and heads of state like to be depicted in their official portraits? We travel from Charles II to Charles III via Napoleon.

Presenter: David Hart

History Asia

5. The house divided

4 Jun

At the heart of the Middle East, with its conflicts and proxy wars, is a 1400-year-old schism between Sunni and Shia. How did this come about?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Legal

6. NSW Mounted Police – a long history

2 Jul

NSW Mounted Police, a mounted section of the Police Force, is the oldest continuous mounted group in the world, formed in September 1825.

Presenter: Melinda Murray

Drama DRAMATIC ACTIVITIES

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 1:30 to 4:00 Activity Rooms 1 and 2

Looking for fun and an enjoyable activity that extends you? Join our drama activities where you will meet new people and have fun along the way. We do drama to music, also mime, improvisation and roleplaying.

Leader and Bookings: Helen Rosenkranz helenrosenkranz@gmail.com 0405 060 727

Games Table Tennis TABLE TENNIS (max 40)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 1:15 to 4:15

Main Hall

Table tennis stimulates physical and mental performance. We offer the opportunity to revive a dormant skill and to socialise with new friends in an air-conditioned venue that is ideal for year round play.

Leader: Richard Hughes

Bookings: Ron Heald and Angela Gollmer ra.u3a.tt@gmail.com

Language French INTERMEDIATE FRENCH

Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Feb 1:30 to 3:30 Activity Rooms 1 and 2

A good knowledge of French grammar is required. The objective is to increase our working knowledge of the French language, the country and culture through development of vocabulary, grammar, speaking, writing, presentation and listening. Textbook and dictionary essential.

Leader: Danina Anderson danina_anderson@hotmail.com

Bookings: John Benjamin johnsbenjamin27@gmail.com

NEWPORT: PITTWATER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Cnr Robertson Rd and Ocean Ave parking nearby, not public holidays

Venue Coordinator Janeska Ahmed janeska.ahmed@gmail.com

Music Recorder RECORDER CONSORT

Every Wednesday from 3 Feb 10:30 to 12:30

A small group playing descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders, playing music from Renaissance to Bach through to Modern and Jazz. New players always welcome. Bookings: Janeska Ahmed janeska.ahmed@gmail.com

NORTH CURL CURL COMMUNITY CENTRE

Cnr Griffin and Abbott Rds

wheelchair access, parking onsite, not public holidays

Venue closed for maintenance 14-18 Apr

Venue Coordinator Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au

THURSDAYS AT NORTH CURL CURL

Every Thursday from 30 Jan 10:00 to 12:00

A series of weekly presentations by people who are experts in their subject.

Leader: Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au

Bookings not required

Health

1. Stress management

30 Jan

In 2024, Finland is again the happiest country in the world! Why? Because they change ‘stresses’ into challenges, allow healing, and develop personal resilience. Come and learn some anatomy, physiology and practical ideas for happiness!

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Music

2. Soundtrack

6 Feb

Harvey presents more Minstrels of Song: SingerSongwriters of the 60s to the Present - an illustrated and affectionate selection of songs from great and popular singer-songwriters of the 60s to the present.

Presenter: Harvey Broadbent AM

History Australia

3. Rookwood Cemetery

13 Feb

Learn about Rookwood’s history, its development and evolution, the significant link to our nation’s heritage and many other fascinating and quirky facts.

Presenter: Mark Bundy

Geology

4. Diamonds are forever

20 Feb

Brief history of diamond mining; the formation and location of the world’s diamond deposits; the use of diamonds; issues associated with global diamond production, and finally, the future of the diamond industry.

Presenter: Jackie Wilson

Biography

5. A Spanish love affair

27 Feb

Not wanting to spend the winter in cold, dark and wet London, probably behind a typewriter, Susan hopped on a train to Madrid. This is where the story really takes off.

Presenter: Susan Joy Alexander

6 Mar

No presentation due to AGM

History USA

6. The history of the USA

13, 20 and 27 Mar (3 sessions)

History has helped shape the America of today. We explore some themes in the short 250-year life of this important nation.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Music

7. Soundtrack: You say good-bye and I say hello

3 Apr

Arrivals and departures produce some of our deepest emotional moments, frequently reflected in music. From the Beatles to Bocelli, enjoy and discover stories behind some wonderful songs on the themes of hello and goodbye.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Writing

8. To carve identity – in life, art and literature

10 Apr

Our identities – who we are – consists of many lived experiences. I discuss how my ‘identity’, from scientist to writer, developed over several decades and how childhood in Maitland (NSW) informed my novel To Carve Identity

Presenter: Susan Steggall

17 Apr

No class due to maintenance at the Centre

Photography

9. Fake views

24 Apr

‘The camera never lies’, or does it? How photographic images have been ‘faked’ over the years, from glass plates to Artificial Intelligence. Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Music

10. Soundtrack

1 May

Harvey presents Rock and Ballads of Stage and Screen - a selection of hits from shows and movies. Enjoy these evergreens from Elvis to Evita, McCartney to Mad Max. Presenter: Harvey Broadbent AM

Crosswords

11. Solving cryptic crosswords – basic introduction (max 20)

Every Thursday from 8 May – 29 May then 12 and 19 Jun (6 sessions)

Cryptic crosswords conform to a set of rules which, once you are aware of them, will help you unravel those tricky clues. A basic course intended for those who would like to learn some strategies and techniques to get started. Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com

Music

12. Soundtrack: Celtic Connections

5 Jun

Part talk, part singalong, join musicians Celtic Connections for an overview of Celtic music across the world followed by a mini concert of Celtic songs to sing along with. Presenter: Graham Spindler

Television

13. Soundtrack: how we laughed

26 Jun

Remember those great comedies on TV, Two Ronnies, Keeping up Appearances, Vicar of Dibley? Laugh again to video clips of the shows and hear about those great actors. Presenter: John Watt

Games Canasta

CANASTA - BOLIVIA VERSION

Every Thursday from 30 Jan 12:45 (prompt) to 4:00 No class on 17 Apr due to maintenance at the Centre Take the opportunity to learn the strategies and tactics of this version of Canasta. Tuition for new players will be provided on 20 and 27 Feb.

Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com

Games Mahjong

MAHJONG - THE WESTERN GAME

Every Thursday from 30 Jan 1:00 to 4:00 No class on 17 Apr due to maintenance at the Centre Learn and play Mahjong in a friendly atmosphere. Patient teaching is provided by Judith Bennett. Leader and Bookings: Sylvia Strike sylviastrike@hotmail.com

Exercise BALANCE ‘N’ BONES EXERCISE

Every Friday from 31 Jan 9:30 to 10:20 (Easy), 10:30 to 11:20 (Advanced)

No class on 18 and 25 Apr (public holidays)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 9:30 to 10:20 (Easy), 10:30 to 11:20 (Advanced)

No class on 14 Apr due to maintenance at the Centre nor 21 Apr (public holiday)

Conditioning exercises for all major muscle groups and balancing to improve posture. Instruction by Beth Denny DVD.

Leaders: Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au (Mondays) Diane Muchar dmuchar@gmail.com (Fridays) Bookings not required

Trivia

TRIVIA FOR FUN

Every Friday from 31 Jan 1:15 to 3:15

No class on 18 Apr due to Public Holiday

Come along to our friendly trivia sessions. Nothing too serious – just enough to exercise the grey cells! Come on your own or make up a team of six. Various presenters.

Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com

Games Bridge SOCIAL BRIDGE

Every Monday from 3 Feb 1:00 to 4:00

No class on 14 Apr due to maintenance at the Centre nor 21 Apr (public holiday)

Basic Bridge knowledge required.

Leader and Bookings: Leigh Hudson leighandrichard@gmail.com

Current Affairs

ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

A participative group where all are encouraged to raise issues that may be of interest to themselves and others. Topics are debated in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.

Leader: Various

Enquiries: Carmen Exner carmen.exner@gmail.com

CURLY QUESTIONS IN SCIENCE

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

For members who enjoy science, please join us for a series of talks on a wide range of topics presented by experts in their field.

Leaders: Laurie Wilson and Ian Thompson

Enquiries: Laurie Wilson wlaurie118@gmail.com (preferred) 0417 045 934

Bookings not required

Medical Matters

1. Medical entomology – the Australian paralysis tick

4 Feb

We discuss their distribution, biology, lifestyle, and ecology, plus their impact on human health - including mammalian meat allergies and ‘Lyme Disease’.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Science Nature

2. Arctic wilderness

18 Feb

Find out how animals and people have adapted to living in the Arctic, surviving in ice and snow, changing climate, challenging terrain, interactions between species, and more! Prepare to be surprised.

Presenter: Rita Shaw

Archaeology

3. Archaeology 1 – Ephesus: the home of Ephesian

Artemis

4 Mar

In this two-part series, these talks will explore the history, archaeology and identity of two different sites, located on the Ionian coast of Turkey, which were inhabited by differing ethnic groups, the Anatolians, the Greeks and the Romans.

Presenter: Gail Sadler

Archaeology

4. Archaeology 2 – Aphrodisias: a city built in marble

18 Mar

Part two in this archaeology series on ancient Turkey.

Presenter: Gail Sadler

Science Nature

5. Nature loves disorder

1 Apr

Sounds strange, does it not? Yet this simple principle underlines so much that occurs in the natural world.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

15 Apr

No presentation due to maintenance at the Centre

Health

6. Chemicals and human health: good, bad and ugly

29 Apr

Humans comprise a mixture of structural, functional and miscellaneous chemicals as well as many organisms. How can we best select and control ‘environmental’ chemicals to support and nurture our health?

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Science

7. The use and misuse of science: one Nobel prize winner’s shame

13 May

Although Fritz Haber introduced gas warfare to WWI in 1915, he received the 1918 Nobel Prize for Chemistry for conversion of nitrogen into fertilizer.

Presenter: Prof Don Napper

Science Medical Matters

8. Frontiers of medical imaging

27 May

The interior of the human body can be imaged in many ways, including X-rays, CT, Nuclear Medicine, MRI and Ultrasound. Some key breakthroughs in medical ultrasound were made in Australia.

Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Food History

9. A Taste of War, plus the Squander Bug

10 Jun

Two great talks from a food historian: A Taste of War; Trench Fare in World War One; plus The Squander Bug: Propaganda and its influence on food consumption in Wartime Australia.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Medical Matters History

10. Quackery – a brief history of the worst ways to cure everything

24 Jun

The golden age of quacksalvers - a historical look at quackery during the Middle Ages and the toxic treatments that these medical-peddlers offered, plus early surgical procedures including leech-therapy.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Games Cards

CARD GAMES 500

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

We meet and enjoy or learn to play cards in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Tuition for new players will be provided.

Leader and Bookings: Wolfgang Buschhaus wbuschhaus@gmail.com

Cinema

MOVIE SERIES: PRESENTER’S PICK

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 1:00 to 4:00

Details of the movies being presented will be in the Northern Beaches u3a Monthly Newsletter. Suggestions from our audience will be welcome.

Leaders: Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com and Sandra Orton sandraorton038@gmail.com

Bookings not required

Book Group

BOOK CLUB

Tuesdays every 4 weeks from 25 Feb, 25 Mar, 22 Apr, 20 May, 17 Jun 10:00 to 12:00

Eastern end of hall

Join fellow book lovers monthly to select a book, and after reading, discuss at the next get together.

Leaders and Bookings: Anne Black anneeblack@yahoo.com.au and Janie Stubbing janieandwal01@optusnet.com.au

WARRIEWOOD: TED BLACKWOOD YOUTH AND COMMUNITY CENTRE

Cnr Jacksons and Boondah Rds

wheelchair access, parking nearby No school holidays Venue Coordinator Marcia Andrews marciaandrews711@hotmail.com

Dance

INTRODUCTION TO BALLROOM DANCE **NEW**

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 12:00 to 2:00

Main Hall

The course presents the steps of selected Ballroom Dance styles (Standard and Latin) including Waltz, Rumba and Slow Rhythm for Semester 1. Tango, Cha Cha, Quickstep, Slow Jive and Foxtrot will follow in a later semester. Beginners are welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Peter Fennell peterfennell9@hotmail.com 0408 660 311

PRIVATE HOMES

Music Appreciation BACH TO THE FUTURE (Avalon) (max 20)

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

During each session we analyse a topic related to classical music, with examples of great recordings of the music being studied. Class members are encouraged to discuss the music and suggest topics for future study.

Leader and Bookings: Roger Pratt

a.and.r.pratt2@bigpond.com 0405 199 093

Music Appreciation

THE GREAT COMPOSERS (Newport) (max 7)

Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

Two sessions per composer: Beethoven, Mozart, Puccini, Brahms, Mahler, Wagner. On CD and video. Brief spoken introductions to the composers and the eras they lived in. State of art home theatre and sound system.

Leader: Ivor Zetler izetler@ozemail.com.au

Bookings: Lynda Cronshaw lyndacron@gmail.com 0411 041 537

Book Group

WENDY’S BOOK CLUB (Forestville) (max 10)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

We borrow kits of books from the library. You will have four weeks to read your book before we discuss it. In the alternate meeting we share reading something aloud.

Leader: Bernie Gibson bernieanddavid@hotmail.com 0416 231 513

Bookings: Marienne Short 0403 939 004

UPPER NORTH

Regional President: Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com 0414 493 415

Regional Course Coordinator: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com Enquiries only

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.

UPPER NORTH REGION OF SYDNEY u3a

Annual General Meeting and Election of Office Bearers and Welcome to New Members will be held on Friday 31 January, 2025 commencing at 1.30pm at Turramurra Uniting Church 10 Turramurra Avenue (behind shopping area car park).

Reports by the President and other Committee members.

Presentation by guest speaker, John Cameron, who has extensive experience with computer systems and has followed the development of ChatGPT and AI closely. John will give us a brief look into the growth of artificial intelligence which is already changing the world, just as the internet did twenty years ago.

Election of office bearers for 2025: Members are invited to join the Upper North Committee to assist with the running of our wonderful organisation. Information and nomination forms may be obtained from, and returned to, the Secretary, Sylvia Hibberd, sylviau3aun@gmail.com or 0428 596 046 by Wednesday 22 January.

Refreshments provided.

Please RSVP to Marilyn Pryor at marilynpryor7@gmail.com or 0414 493 415 by no later than Wednesday 22 January.

BEROWRA COMMUNITY CENTRE

Gully Rd (behind Berowra Oval) train station nearby, parking onsite. Venue Coordinator Anne Rayment annerayment@hotmail.com

AFFAIRS OF INTEREST IN THE CURRENT WORLD

Second and fourth Mondays (Tues if Mon is a public holiday) from 10 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Balcony room

A series of talks of general interest looking at topics relevant to people living in today’s world.

Leaders: Joan Scott and Jackie Wilson Bookings: Joan Scott djscott.joan@gmail.com (preferred) 0405 453 396

Language History

1. History of Australian slang / rebel without a cause

10 Feb

These two talks follow the pattern of development of Australian English vocabulary and consider the effects of language change.

Presenter: Sue Butler

Technology

2. Glass

24 Feb

Glass is used every day. It has a long history of creating beautiful objects, scientific instruments and devices that may surprise you.

Presenter: Debbie Rudder

Legal

3. What is a Justice of the Peace

10 Mar

Learn how JPs provide an essential community service and form an integral part of the social and legal history of many Commonwealth countries.

Presenter: Andrew Miles

Technology

4. Renewable energy and electric cars

24 Mar

An overview of energy sources that are available and of benefit to us all throughout the world.

Presenter: Ross Clements

Human Body

5. Kinesiology

14 Apr

Kinesiology is the study of bodily movement. We will explain how it works and where it fits into complementary medicine.

Presenter: Steve Powell

History World

6. Harems of the Sultans

28 Apr

We unravel some of the myths and mysteries of the treacherous politics of the harems of Turkey – hot beds of intrigue and danger.

Presenter: Cindy Davies

Media

7. Media and celebrities behind the screen

12 May

Anita is one of Australia’s most distinguished television producers and based on her book Secrets Beyond the Screen, she will reveal all.

Presenter: Anita Jacoby AM

Future

8. Grey matters: managing the world’s ageing population 26 May

We consider why the world’s population is ageing, its challenges and opportunities and how selected countries are managing the issue.

Presenter: Jackie Wilson

Politics

9. What is democracy really about? 10 Jun

What is democracy? We consider the world’s major systems, such as those of Russia and the USA and how they compare with our own in Australia.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

BRUSH FARM NETBALL COURTS

1 Lawson Street, Eastwood parking onsite Venue Coordinator Al Reeks areeks61@gmail.com

Games Pickleball PICKLEBALL

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Pickleball is a fun game which mixes three sports into one – tennis, badminton and table tennis. It is played on a badminton size court. The net is lower than a tennis net, the paddles are the size of a beach bat and typically made of graphite and the ball is light plastic. Leader and Bookings: Al Reeks areeks61@gmail.com

EASTWOOD CROQUET CLUB

Corner of West Parade & Wingate Avenue train station nearby Venue Coordinator Patricia Sykes pasyk.un21@gmail.com

Games Croquet

INTRODUCTION TO CROQUET Fridays from 7 Feb

The game of croquet is low impact, strategic, mentally stimulating and offers effective yet gentle exercise on excellent, beautifully maintained lawns. All equipment supplied and lessons by a qualified coach. Dress code is casual with flat soled shoes or joggers. Leader and Bookings: The Secretary ecc111936@gmail.com 9654 2248

EPPING LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

1 Chambers Court, off Pembroke Street, beneath the Library wheelchair access, limited parking, train station and bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Tricia Tsang rydenurse@yahoo.com.au 0408 288 386

INTERESTING SPEAKERS AT EPPING (max 30)

Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 Function Room

A group of speakers on a variety of subjects. Leader and Bookings: Tricia Tsang rydenurse@yahoo.com.au 0408 288 386

Technology

1. A closer look at the world of AI

12 Feb

AI is a game-changing technology with transformative potential. Amid the current hype, this presentation outlines what AI is, practical applications, new risks posed to individuals and strategies to manage them.

Presenter: Michelle Moffatt

Future

2. Nuclear power generation in Australia

26 Feb

Nuclear power, its history and some facts. Some humour and why we need it in Australia. How, and where, to treat nuclear waste in Australia.

Presenter: Wesley Harder

Health

3. Probiotics and human health

12 Mar

Since 2022 there has been an explosion of new research on probiotics and their effects on just about everything from the heart to the brain, across gender and lifespan. Hear about the latest findings.

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Travel

4. Mongolia and Siberia

26 Mar

Kevin and Glenys provide their impressions based on travels there and on research carried out since. Their multi-media presentation highlights the history, geography, culture, architecture, lifestyles and landscapes of each of these fascinating countries.

Presenters: Kevin and Glenys Murray

Medical Matters

5. First Aid and CPR

9 Apr

The session covers how to recognize cardiac arrest (not heart attack), CALL PUSH SHOCK, the role of CPR and an AED. There will be manikins and training AEDs for you to practise your skills.

Presenter: Joanne Struck, Heart of the Nation

History China

6. Who is Xi Jinping?

7 May

A closer look at one of the most powerful men, not only in China, but in the world. He has been leader since 2013 –what is he trying to achieve?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Psychology

7. Psychology: some key concepts

21 May

Who is the real father of psychology? What is the difference between psychology and psychiatry? Details of IQ tests, personality tests, psychosis, neurosis and psychotherapy will be discussed.

Presenter: Reinhard Ronnebeck

Travel

8. India

4 Jun

This presentation will show wildlife and nature, dance and music, tradition and spirituality, naturopathy and Ayurveda, food and festivals, colours and fabrics, forts and palaces and many more such uniquely Indian experiences.

Presenter: Nirup Prabakaran

History Australia

9. Aboriginal discovery and migration 18 Jun

Aboriginals came to Australia approximately 45,000 years ago. The ocean crossing was remarkable, given the lack of any land bridge – preventing Asian animals coming and kangaroos living in Sumatra. We look at the consensus of theories.

Presenter: Stewart Fist

Tai Chi

TAI CHI (max 20)

Alternate Wednesdays from 19 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 Function Room

Gain health benefits through its gentle exercises and relaxation; ideal for Third Agers. Tai Chi’s graceful, fluid movements combine three forms of exercise: strength, stretching and breathing. Participants should provide fitness assurance.

Leader and Bookings: Dennis Siang Tan dshtan@bigblue.net.au 9888 7874

EPPING UNITING CHURCH

Corner Chester and Oxford Sts train station and bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Patricia Sykes pasyk.un21@gmail.com

Language Latin

LATIN FOR BEGINNERS **NEW**

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Old Manse Building

Join in and learn this fascinating ancient Romance language. The foundation of many European languages, including English. New beginners and lapsed former students are welcome. Text book is Oxford Latin Course, Part 1 Leader and Bookings: Peter Moore plusph@gmail.com (preferred) 0438 808 336

Book Group

BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Thursdays from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

A reading and discussion group that considers a variety of texts with an emphasis on contemporary literature but also includes an occasional classic. The title of the first book for discussion will be given on enrolment. Leaders: Sandra Luntz and Barbara Boston Bookings: Sandra Luntz sandra.luntz@gmail.com (preferred) 9874 3382

Music

BASIC MUSIC THEORY & SIGHT SINGING PRACTICE (max 15) **NEW**

Every Wednesday from 12 Feb 11:30 to 1:00 not school holidays

A fun way to learn basic music theory and apply it to reading vocal music scores. The three major components of the course are: basic elements of music, practice singing from music scores and vocal warm up exercises.

Leader and Bookings: Ying Carruthers yingcarruthers@hotmail.com (preferred) 0414 822 180

Dance

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING (max 16)

Every Friday from 14 Feb 10:00 to 11:30

Large hall

A fun social activity for all ages. As soon as you hear the wonderful Scottish music you will want to dance. Moderate physical fitness is required but no previous dance experience or partner is needed. Wear soft shoes and light clothing.

Leader: Sheena Caswell sheena.caswell@gmail.com 0401 847 468

Bookings: Sue Shaw suesuespan@gmail.com

GORDON LIBRARY

799 Pacific Highway

wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby

Venue Coordinator Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com (preferred) 0402 080 045

Philosophy PHILOSOPHY

Alternate Mondays from 3 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Meeting Room 2

We will finish the present course on Existentialism and then start Masters of Greek Thought: Plato, Socrates and Aristotle using lectures on DVD recorded for the Great Courses series by Professor Robert C. Bartlett.

Leader: Jock Buselli Jock.Buselli@tpg.com.au 9484 7041

Bookings: Stanis Osterly stanisosterly@hotmail.com

Tai Chi

TAI CHI (max 15)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:30 (two classes 10:00 to 11:00 and 11:00 to 12:30)

Meeting Room 2

Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi and Qigong and gain health benefits through gentle strength, stretching and breathing exercises.

Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738

HORNSBY: CENTRAL LIBRARY

28-44 George St (entry in Hunter Lane) wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station and bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550

History Australia

AUSTRALIAN HISTORY SEMINARS

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:15 to 12:15 Room 4

A course including a diverse range of topics and speakers dealing with Captain Moonlight, Abel Tasman, John Norton, as well as the Battle of Beersheba, ABC TV Studios at Gore Hill, convict stories and fascinating photographs.

Leader and Bookings: Garry Smith garmal@outlook.com.au (preferred) 0418 443 147

Language LANGUAGES FOR TRAVELLING

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:00 to 12:00: Spanish for beginners 1:30 to 3:30: Italian for beginners Room 8

Do you delight in engaging with the local folk when travelling, understanding their culture, art history and cuisine? Spanish can be used, not only in Spain, but also in South and Central America…or is Italian your first love? Leader and Bookings: Paddy Gunning gunnosp@gmail.com (preferred) 0415 857 947

Travel TRAVELLING LADIES

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:15 to 12:15 4 sessions only Room 4

For a travel experience peppered with humour, determination and resourcefulness, join our Victorian and Edwardian adventurers as they explore different and remote places.

Leader: Nola Bramble

Bookings: Lynette Trupp roblyntrupp@bigpond.com.au (preferred) 9484 2641

Legal UNDERSTANDING AUSTRALIAN LAW **NEW**

Alternate Tuesdays from 8 Apr 10:15 to 12:15 6 sessions only Room 4

Where laws come from, how the system works, legal dimensions of current events including the Australian Constitution, rule of law, judges, juries, barristers, solicitors, how trials are run, the principles of evidence, crime contracts, negligence, human rights and international law.

Leader: David Hirsch

Bookings: Lynette Trupp roblyntrupp@bigpond.com.au (preferred) 9484 2641

HORNSBY: LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

25 Edgeworth David Avenue

wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com (preferred) 0402 080 045

Dance

DANCE DYNAMICS

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 10:00 to 11:15 This dance fitness class is all about having fun while moving your body to great music. A wonderful way to improve your coordination and balance as well as providing benefits for your physical, emotional and mental health.

Leader and Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com 0409 448 542

Art Painting

PAINTING IN ACRYLICS (max 15)

Alternate Thursdays from 6 Feb 9:30 to 12:00

Come and join our friendly class. Basic skills lessons are given to beginners, as well as guidance and assistance provided to all, whatever your skill level.

Leader and Bookings: Janny Drayer jannydrayer@gmail.com 0432 121 999

Art Painting

WATERCOLOUR PAINTING (max 16)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 9:30 to 12:00 Learn basic watercolour techniques or expand your skills in a friendly, supportive environment. If you are a beginner, the leader will give you a list of materials you will need. Leader and Bookings: John Patten jmpatten1@optusnet.com.au 0404 181 186

HORNSBY: STOREY PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE

12 Old Berowra Road car parking, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045

Music Recorder

MEDIUM TO ADVANCED RECORDER (max 13)

Alternate Wednesdays from 29 Jan 10:00 to 12:30 Room 1

The Northern Recorder Players are a friendly and relaxed group whose purpose is to enjoy making beautiful music from a wide repertoire. Sight reading ability required. Leader and Bookings: Viv Peters viv55peters@gmail.com 0401 371 472

LINDFIELD GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

2 Ulmarra Place, East Lindfield street parking available and bus at door Venue Coordinator Sharon Jones marysharone149@icloud.com

Bookings: Through the village office 9416 8466

VARIOUS SPEAKERS

Fourth Thursday from 27 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Various speakers present different topics of interest.

Food

1. Food on the move / the pub with no beer 27 Feb

(a) History of dining on the Ghan from 1929 - outback pub meals with warm beer through to today’s elegant dining with Australian wines and native bush fare.

(b) Coffee palaces and temperance hotels in Sydney and Melbourne in the 19th century.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Famous People

2. Lucy Osburn

27 Mar

Controversial founder of the Sydney Hospital and how she founded modern nursing in Australia. She was later disowned by Florence Nightingale.

Presenter: Dr Judith Godden

History Maritime

3. The history of lighthouses

24 Apr

The history and development of lighthouses around the world, along the NSW coast and Sydney Harbour. Presenter: Ian Thompson

History Local

4. Early Northbridge and environs 22 May

Privately built to promote residential development in the suburbs around Northbridge, the bridge opened as Long Gully Bridge in 1892.

Presenter: Ron Besdansky

Literature History

5. Lyrics quite contrary 26 Jun

A look at unlikely and often unpleasant origins and histories of some of the best know nursery rhymes and children’s songs.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

LINDFIELD SENIORS CENTRE

259 Pacific Highway (behind Library) wheelchair access, limited parking onsite, parking nearby, train station nearby Venue Coordinator Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045

Book Group

MODERN AND CLASSIC NOVELS

Alternate Thursdays from 30 Jan 10:15 to 12:15 Meeting room, main building

A literary discussion group studying 10-11 books each semester in a friendly and informal setting. All enthusiastic readers welcome. 30 Jan: The Magic Mountain by Thomas Mann, 13 Feb: The Bee Sting by Paul Murray.

Leader and Bookings: Maurice O’Donovan odonovan.1@bigpond.com 9411 8717

Language Spanish

POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH

Alternate Mondays from 3 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 Meeting room, main building

Continuing course. A reasonable knowledge of grammar is required encompassing all tenses and understanding of subjunctives. The course will focus on listening, reading and speaking. There will be continual grammar revision. A variety of teaching methods will be used.

Leader and Bookings: Jenny Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com 9966 8510 or 0403 923 555

Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 Meeting Room, main building not school holidays

This continuing course is based on Part 3 of the second edition of the Oxford Latin Course enhanced by passages of prose and poetry from various classical authors. Anyone with some basic knowledge of Latin is welcome to join us.

Leader and Bookings: Helen Ledwidge helenledwidge685@gmail.com 0414 489 716

Language German GERMAN ADVANCED

Every Friday from 14 Feb 9:30 to 11:00 Meeting Room, main building

Students need to have a sound knowledge of German. Newspaper articles, passages from literature and poetry for discussion. New members welcome. Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722

Language German GERMAN INTERMEDIATE

Every Friday from 14 Feb 11:00 to 12:30 Meeting Room, main building em 2008 neu Abschlusskurs – Kursbuch Niveaustufe C1 and Arbeitsbuch (ISBN 978-3-19-511697-8); Der arme Millionar: A course in everyday German BBC Radio basis for discussion in German.

Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722

PENNANT HILLS: HORNSBY KU-RING-GAI CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH CENTRE

5 Fisher Avenue parking nearby, train station nearby Venue Coordinator Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045

Poetry POETRY WRITING

Alternate Thursdays from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Group Room

We are a relaxed group of poets seeking to improve our writing. Bring a draft, receive positive and constructive comments.

Leader and Bookings: David Atkinson atkinsondn6@gmail.com 0412 643 328

SOUTH TURRAMURRA: ST ANDREW’S UNITING CHURCH

Vernon St parking onsite Venue Coordinator Grahame Marr gwmarr1@bigpond.com (preferred) 0447 580 088

Language French FRENCH PRE-INTERMEDIATE (max 15)

Every Tuesday from 4 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 Fellowship Room not school holidays

For those who have completed at least 2 years of preliminary French course. Develop your skills in speaking, listening to, reading and writing French in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Three text books required. Phone Leader for details.

Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck 9634 4214

Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 15)

Every Thursday from 6 Feb 1:00 to 3:00 Fellowship Room not school holidays

For those who have completed at least 3 years of preliminary French course. Develop your skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing French in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Three text books required. Phone Leader for details.

Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck 9634 4214

ST IVES FERNBANK

RETIREMENT VILLAGE

2 Kitchener St parking onsite, parking nearby

Venue Coordinator Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550

Creative Writing

SHORT STORY WRITING (max 12)

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Visitor Centre Games Room (one floor down)

Join our friendly and supportive group of amateur writers who enjoy writing short stories/articles on a specific theme. We are always amazed at the variety of different interpretations. Members discuss and offer appreciation and constructive criticism. No experience? No problem.

Leader and Bookings: Liz Laslett lizlaslett45@gmail.com 0410 498 621

ST IVES UNITING CHURCH

Cnr Douglas St and Mona Vale Rd wheelchair access, parking onsite

Venue Coordinator Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550

Dance

DANCE FOR FITNESS AND FUN, ONE

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:00 to 11:30

Wesley Room

We dance to songs that we know and love. With music, rhythm and movement, we make new neuro pathways remembering the steps while exercising body and mind, improving memory and cardiac fitness, with the added bonus of friendship and laughter.

Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738

Games Mahjong

MAHJONG PLAYERS GROUP **NEW**

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 1:30 to 3:30 Finlay Room

A small group of experienced Mahjong players who are looking for new members interested in joining for stimulating play in a fun environment. Must be experienced in Western Mahjong and available to play each fortnight.

Leader: Marilyn Pryor

Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com 0409 448 542

Music Ukulele

UKULELE FOR FUN

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 9:15 to 9:45 Beginners 9:30 to 12:00 Beyond beginners

Wesley Room

Looking for a new interest? Come and have a lot of fun with our friendly group. Beginners welcome. We have startup ukuleles available to try. Music is so good for the soul. Strum and sing with us just for fun.

Leader: Dennis Simmons

Bookings: Barrie Heath foxv217@gmail.com 0450 405 526

Dance

DANCE FOR FITNESS AND FUN, TWO

Every Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 11:30

Finlay Room

We dance to songs that we know and love. With music, rhythm and movement, we make new neuro pathways remembering the steps while exercising body and mind, improving memory and cardiac fitness, with the added bonus of friendship and laughter.

Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738

Cinema

THE GOLDEN AGE OF CINEMA

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:30

Wesley Room

Classic films from the 1920s to the 1960s will be screened.

Leader and Bookings: Gary Tyrrell talk2garyt@gmail.com 0432 696 163

Discussion Group Current Affairs

CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 18)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Calvin Room

We discuss and actively debate current news topics from local, national and international news sources. Debate can be lively and respectful of all opinions. Topics are sent in advance.

Leader and Bookings: Michael Branagan 0417 452 100

TURRAMURRA NORTH: THE LANDINGS

440 Bobbin Head Rd parking onsite

Venue Coordinator Wendy Bull thelandingsvilla@gmail.com 9488 5268

TOPICS OF INTEREST

Second and fourth Mondays from 10 Feb 2:00 to 3:30

The Control Room in the Clubhouse

A variety of speakers lecture on their favourite subjects. Leader: Wendy Bull thelandingsvilla@gmail.com 9488 5268

Bookings: no bookings required

Disasters

1. Search dogs Sydney 10 Feb

Highly qualified Search Technicians are partnered with expertly trained search dogs required for wilderness operations, disasters and casualty events.

Presenter: Chris D’Arcy

History Aviation

2. Pioneering aviation in the Pacific 24 Feb

We trace island aviation history from Kingsford Smith’s 1928 historic landing in Suva through to the pioneering era, Qantas’ sometimes troubled environment and Fiji’s international airline’s success in the aftermath of the 1987 military coups.

Presenter: Andrew Drysdale

People

3. Sir Tannatt William Edgeworth David KBE CMG

DSO FRS

10 Mar

Sir Edgeworth David (1858-1934) was an Antarctic explorer, war hero, University Professor and Geologist who discovered the mineral benefits of the Hornsby Quarry and first person to speak publicly of climate change.

Presenter: Cr Nathan Tilbury

History

4. Australia / Fiji frenemies

24 Mar

We look at some of the first white Australian settlers in Fiji through to the diplomatic manouvering with the Chinese of today.

Presenter: Andrew Drysdale

History Maritime

5. The navy at Gallipoli

14 Apr

A story of WW1 in 1914/1915 and the role of our RAN ships under the command of the RN and the decision by Churchill to attack Constantinople and to stop in joining the AXIS forces.

Presenter: Noel Phelan

Legal

6. Fox and Staniland Lawyers

28 Apr

We discuss the importance of legally written Wills and Estate disputes that face many families.

Presenter: Wal Abramowicz

Wildlife

7. Sydney Wildlife Rescue

12 May

The rescuing and care of sick, injured and orphaned wildlife such as koalas, wombats, echidnas and bandicoots to name a few, and how they are safely released back into the wild.

Presenter: Bev Young

Crime

8. Crime prevention

26 May

Our Ku-ring-gai Police Command speak about preventing crime in our area, fraudulent activities and theft, plus home, money and senior safety.

Presenter: Snr Constable Gemma Walker

Legal

9. Drug law reform

23 Jun

Nick Cowdery spent 50 years in criminal justice in various capacities and was a public defender, barrister and acting judge. For nearly 17 years he was Director of Public Prosecutions for NSW.

Presenter: Nick Cowdery AO QC

TURRAMURRA UNITING CHURCH

Turramurra Avenue wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station and bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550

Language German PRE INTERMEDIATE GERMAN

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Garden room not school holidays

Participants will develop their German vocabulary and grammar skills through course work, listening and speaking activities. The course assumes some prior study of, or familiarity with, the German language.

Leader and Bookings: Michael Hummel michael.hummel48@gmail.com 0404 478 814

Discussion Group Current Affairs CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Garden Room

We discuss current affairs and associated ideas based on media reports in an informal and objective manner. Subjects for discussion by a leader who is rostered on a voluntary basis in each session. New members welcome. Leader and Bookings: Margaret Rapsey rmrapsey@bigpond.com (preferred) 9456 4410 0457 252 526

Games FUN PUZZLES

Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Garden Room

Let’s challenge our brains and keep mentally agile by learning how to solve geometric puzzles such as tangrams and pentominoes, as well as space problems, number puzzles, word and logic puzzles. You will need pencils, paper, scissors and eraser.

Leader and Bookings: Sandra Sadler spsadler@dodo.com.au 9484 5513

WAHROONGA: THE WONIORA

9 Woniora Avenue wheelchair access Venue Coordinator Dorothee Schifter dorothee.schifter@bigpond.com 9487 2578

Language German GERMAN INTERMEDIATE (max 12)

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:15 to 12:15

This course assumes that students have studied German in the past and want to brush up on their speaking, reading skills and basic grammar. The emphasis is on oral German and some necessary grammar.

Leader and Bookings: Dorothee Schifter

Dorothee.schifter@bigpond.com 0400 164 817 (leave text message) 9487 2578

OUTDOORS

Outdoors Walking OUT THERE

Third Wednesday from 15 Jan

Join us for a variety of walks: bush, urban and coastal. Register your interest to receive information on the walks. Booked participants will receive full details early each month. Public transport options wherever feasible.

Leader and Bookings: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045

PRIVATE HOMES

Venue Coordinator Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045

Creative Writing

INTERACTIVE CREATIVE WRITING (Dangar Island) (max 10) **NEW**

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 11:00 to 3:00 6 sessions only

Join well published, prize winning author and historian, Ann Howard, at her beautiful heritage home on Dangar Island. Have a stroll around the island and then settle into your workshop with the vibrant Ann. Leader and Bookings: Ann Howard annhoward942@gmail.com

Book Group

LITERARY MASTERPIECES (St Ives) (max 8)

First Friday from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Welcome to a small group of lovers of reading and learning. Explore the best literature has to offer, with authors including Nobel Prize winners and texts from a variety of countries and cultures.

Book 1: Carpentaria by Alexis Wright Leader and Bookings: Kaye Horley rkhorley@gmail.com 0412 750 487

Poetry WITH RHYME AND REASON (Denistone East) (max 10)

Alternate Thursdays from 13 Feb 10:30 to 12:30 We are a relaxed and convivial group who love to discuss poetry. Although our focus is 20th century English language poets, we also look at poems in translation and poets from other eras. Material is distributed before each meeting. Leader and Bookings: Richard Clarke randmclarke@yahoo.com.au 0401 313 989

ZOOM COURSES

Current Affairs

YOU NEED NOT AGREE

Presented by Northern Beaches Region

Every Monday from 13 Jan 10:00 to 12:00

A group discussion of topical, local, national, international or general matters, where all opinions are welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Kevin Murray kevandglenny@gmail.com 0413 306 146

Famous People

SINGERS OF THE 20th CENTURY **NEW**

Presented by City and Inner West Region

Alternate Mondays from 20 Jan 2:00 to 3:30

The fabulous vocal talents and interesting lives of great singers such as Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Tom Jones, Johnny Cash, Cliff Richard and others will be covered.

Leader and Bookings: Paul Hurst paulh150@hotmail.com (preferred) 0414 354 173

Music

MUSIC WE GREW UP WITH

Presented by Upper North Region

Alternate Thursdays from 23 Jan 10:00 to 12:00

MWGUW enters its 11th consecutive year with more music delivered via audio-video compilations. 2024 offered genres from Classical, Opera, Pop and Rock. This semester expect music from the seventies and artists like 10cc and Moody Blues to be included.

Leader and Bookings: Howard Ferrer howferr@gmail.com

Language Spanish

SPANISH CONVERSATION

Presented by Upper North Region

Alternate Tuesdays from 28 Jan 2:00 to 4:00

Most of the time we discuss current affairs, cultural events or a subject previously decided upon. Spanish is spoken 90% of the time. Good knowledge of the language is required.

Leader: Maria Criado

Bookings: Jenny Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com 9966 8510 or 0403 923 555

Language Russian

RUSSIAN ADVANCED CONVERSATION

Presented by Upper North Region

Alternate Mondays from 3 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

This is a continuing course that encourages participants to practise conversational Russian with the help of audio-visual materials. New members with an adequate knowledge of the language are very welcome.

Leaders: Richard Brettell and Paul Gilchrist

Bookings: Richard Brettell richardbrettell@hotmail.com 0455 279 866

Current Affairs

CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12)

Presented by City and Inner West

Every Monday from 3 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 and/or every second Thursday from 20 Feb 4:00 to 6:00

Join us for a friendly and respectful discussion on current affairs, local and international. Every 2nd month we meet for lunch (optional).

Leader: John Brockman alban.kingslangley@gmail.com 0400 422 962

Bookings: Sara Graham s.dk.graham@gmail.com 0410 860 776

Language Mandarin MANDARIN (max 30)

Presented by Greater West Region

Depending on your level, start date is Monday 3 or 10 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

This continuing course is intended for Sydney u3a members who want to learn Mandarin by means of learning Chinese characters and sentences using Pinyin.

Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com

Crosswords

MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)

Presented by City and Inner West Region

First Monday from 3 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Guided practice sessions for members who have already participated in Cracking Cryptic Crosswords or who have other relevant experience.

Leader and Bookings: Ron Shapiro ronshap1938@gmail.com (preferred) 4225 0270

Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 12)

Presented by Upper North Region

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 9:30 to 11:30

For those students who have a good basic knowledge of grammar and the ability to read, understand and communicate in French at an intermediate level.

Leader and Bookings: Ethleen Low ethlow@bigpond.net.au (preferred) 0418 161 706

Language Creative Writing OUR WORDS

Presented by Greater West Region

First and Third Monday from 5 Feb 9:30 to 11:30

Words and sayings can be fun. Share a word to use in an on-the-spot writing task. Discuss articles on many aspects of the English language. Hone your writing skills in a friendly like-minded group and let your talent emerge.

Leader and Bookings: Ann Orel annorel@hotmail.com

Language Spanish SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS (max 12)

Presented by City and Inner West Region

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 10:30 to 11:30

For those who are new to Spanish or intending to travel to a Spanish speaking country. We will follow a simple pattern to have you speaking Spanish from the first lesson. We will focus on everyday spoken Spanish with an emphasis on conversational exercises.

Leader and Bookings: Vivian McGuire vmcguire@tpg.com.au (preferred) 0418 259 102

Cinema Movies

ZOOM COURSES

FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 9)

Presented by City and Inner West Region

Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

Join a fun, friendly and stimulating zoom discussion about two films at every meeting. Two films from SBS on Demand or Netflix are chosen at each session. The result is an invigorating, insightful and enjoyable discussion from the comfort of your own home.

Leader and Bookings: Ross Giannone 0409 382 384

Crosswords

MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)

Presented by City and Inner West Region

First Wednesday from 5 Feb 1:30 to 3:30 Guided practice sessions for members who have already participated in Cracking Cryptic Crosswords or who have other relevant experience.

Leader and Bookings: Ron Shapiro ronshap1938@gmail.com (preferred) 4225 0270

Language Spanish

SPANISH INTERMEDIATE - AN INTRODUCTION (max 12)

Presented by City and Inner West Region

Every Wednesday from 5 Feb 2:00 to 3:00 In this course we will be looking at various Spanish verb tenses and how they are used in everyday spoken Spanish. We will follow common Spanish sentence patterns and focus on conversational exercises. A comfortable use of Spanish in the “Present Indicative” is required for this course.

Leader and Bookings: Vivian McGuire vmcguire@tpg.com.au (preferred) 0418 259 102

THURSDAYS ON ZOOM

Presented by Harbourside North Region

Alternate Thursdays from 6 Feb 10:00 to 12:00 Interesting presentations on various topics each Thursday. Bookings: Please book by Tuesday afternoon before the presentation at https://sydneyu3a.org OR Rosemarie Einstein einstein@starmer.net.au

Politics Current Affairs

1. Identity politics and its threat to democracy 6, 20 Feb

When voters identify with a sub-group rather than the nation, civil society becomes polarised. We explore this phenomenon in selected democracies.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Health Medical Matters

2. Human gut: the ultimate grinding machine

6 Mar

There is no better grinding machine in the world than our gut. The harsh food we eat is pounded, nutrients extracted and the waste expelled. See how this is done.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Language

3. History of Australian slang

20 Mar

Background to the Macquarie Dictionary and its adventures in spelling, taboo words, flashpoints in politics, and new words. Then standards in usage – cliches, punctuation, jargon.

Presenter: Sue Butler

Science

4. The world in a grain of sand

3 Apr

We look at beach and desert sand and how it has transformed our world, including the hidden social and environmental costs of sand mining, together with why Australia is selling sand to Saudi Arabia.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Science Nature

5. Extraordinary eyes – how animals see the world

17 Apr

For us, the world can be a stunning place, but what is it like for other members of the animal kingdom, and what function does colour serve for them.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Health

6. Healthy ageing is accessible for all 1 May

LiveUp is a free online healthy ageing guide. Hear about their work with leading experts to promote healthy daily lifestyle choices so that you can live well and remain independent.

Presenter: Lisa Maunsell

Internet Technology

7. Introducing our new membership and course management system

15 May

Join us for a walk through of our brand-new system designed to make your online experience easy for booking courses, membership renewals and secure payments.

Presenters: Pam Furney and Rosemarie Einstein

Economics Investment

8. Introduction to fixed income

29 May

Introduction to fixed income securities and the market landscape, the benefits of fixed income in your portfolio, stocks vs fixed income, and how you can access fixed income for your portfolio.

Presenter: Harrison Moore

Photography

CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY

Presented by Northern Beaches Region

Alternate Fridays from 7 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

Regular photo assignments to be taken in your own time, plus occasional photoshoot outings to local locations. Feedback via regular Zoom sessions, with some tutorial based sessions. Places are limited; previous participants are welcome to re-join.

Leaders: Laurie Wilson and Ian Thompson

Bookings: Laurie Wilson wlaurie118@gmail.com (preferred) 0417 045 934

ZOOM COURSES

Language Mandarin MANDARIN P.I.E.S. (PRACTICE IN EVERYDAY SPEAKING)

Presented by Greater West Region

Every Friday from 7 Feb 1:00 to 3:00

These sessions are for learners of Mandarin who want to practice and improve their listening and speaking skills. Activities range from basic everyday conversation, presentation of stories and discussions facilitated by native Mandarin speakers.

Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com

Language Italian

INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN (max 20)

Presented by City and Inner West Region

Every Friday from 7 Feb 1:30 to 3:30

We are a convivial and welcoming group of people who enjoy practicing the four linguistic skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. We also talk about culture and regularly revise grammar, mostly from online websites, to consolidate and deepen our knowledge of Italy and its language.

Leader and Bookings: Pia Ottavian pia.ottavian@yahoo.com.au 0424 738 824

Travel TRAVELLERS ON ZOOM (max 25)

Presented by Endeavour Region

Second Thursday from 13 Feb 2:00 to 4:00 excluding school holidays

The group is for people who enjoy travel. Members can share their travel experiences, stories and photographs. Or you can just enjoy being part of the audience to reminisce or dream.

Leader and Bookings: Greg Organ cjgjorgan@gmail.com 0481 835 009

MORE GREAT MOMENTS IN SCIENCE

Presented by Upper North Region

Alternate Wednesdays from 19 Feb 10:00 to 12:00

This course, hosted by Ian Thompson, explores many and varied scientific issues.

Leader and Bookings: David Malone dymalone@bigpond.net.au 0418 440 828

Food

1. Australia’s culinary history 19 Feb

Changes in food culture from convict ships to the present day.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Science Nature

2. Bird population survival following a cyclone

5 Mar

Cyclone Nina devastated Rennell Island in 1993, home to 6 endemic species of birds. A census conducted over the next 6 years measured the recovery of the avian population.

Presenter: Joy Pegler

Anthropology

3. Living in the Anthropocene

19 Mar

Examining the ways in which humans have made such a profound impact on the planet that it warrants being labelled as a whole new geological era: the Anthropocene.

Presenter: Kevin Murray

Human Body

4. The human brain part 2

2 Apr

More about this complex object we hold inside our heads and the way it performs incredible tasks, which have baffled scientists.

Presenter: Das Dassanayake

Medical Matters

5. Medical matters and our body

16 Apr

The mysteries of medicine and our body, what can go wrong and how to fix it.

Presenter: Dr. John Walsh

Science

6. Mankind’s magic ride with electricity

30 Apr

From lightning strikes to mobile phones and everything in between. Looking at the key figures in observation and inventive persistence and some products we enjoy today.

Presenter: David Malone

Science Nature

7. An introduction to forensic science

14 May

We look at the history of forensic science across a number of disciplines, together with a study of forensic entomology and the use of insects in the investigation of criminal matters.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Medical Matters

8. Frontiers of medical imaging

28 May

A survey of x-ray, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, MRI and CT scanning.

Presenter: Dr. Laurie Wilson

Science

9. The fight for height – secrets of the upper air

11 Jun

The discovery of the stratosphere, jet streams and high altitude photography.

Presenter: Richard Whitaker

Human Body

10. Proprioception

25 Jun

Meaning the sense of how our bodies are positioned. It is the ability to sense stimuli arising from within regarding position, motion and equilibrium.

Presenter: Das Dassanayake

Language Spanish

ZOOM COURSES

POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH

Presented by Northern Beaches Region

Every Monday from 24 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

Further development of spoken and written communication skills, grammar reviews and study of Spanish speaking cultures. For people with three years of Spanish or equivalent. Newcomers please contact course leader for details.

Leader and Bookings: Alexis Tabensky alexistabensky7@gmail.com 0424 983 618

Travel History

TRAVEL AND HISTORY TOGETHER

Presented by Greater West Region

Fourth Tuesday from 25 Feb 2:00 to 4:00

Enjoy armchair travelling as various members share their travel journeys, including the intriguing history of the places they have travelled. Check the Sydney u3a Greater West website (Courses & Updates) for dates and topics of individual presentations.

Leader and Bookings: Karen Paterson karenpaterson@optusnet.com.au

Crosswords

CRACKING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 16)

Presented by City and Inner West Region Thursdays 3, 10, 17, 24 Apr 1:30 to 3:30 (4 sessions)

Get into the mind of cryptic crossword compilers and learn how to solve their devious clues. Have fun while keeping your brain active.

Leader and Bookings: Ron Shapiro ronshap1938@gmail.com (preferred) 4225 0270

COURSE INDEX

A Anthropology 59

Archaeology 23, 47, 15

Art 15, 18, 24, 32, 34, 41, 18, 35

Appreciation 22, 23, 35, 39

Drawing 13, 23

Drawing and Painting 42

Galleries 14

History 30, 44, 31

Painting 43, 44, 52

Urban Sketching 23

Australian History 27

Aviation 37

B

Biography 45

Book Group 13, 14, 16, 17, 19, 20, 24, 25, 28, 36, 41, 47, 48, 51, 53, 56

C Calligraphy 27

Cinema 12, 22, 23, 47, 54

Cinema Movies 14, 15, 29, 58

Collaborative Qigong 11

Cooperative Relaxation and Stretching Activities 11

Craft 16, 41

Creative Writing 25, 28, 54, 56

Crime 55

Crosswords 17, 46, 57, 58, 60

Culture 15

Current Affairs 12, 32, 33, 35, 42, 46, 57

D Dance 11, 23, 28, 28, 33, 47, 51, 52, 54

Desktop Flying 28

Disasters 54

Discussion Group 12, 14, 19, 22, 23, 24, 27, 31, 32

Book Group 38

Current Affairs 26, 38, 54, 55 Movies 19, 42

Drama 34, 45

E Economics 39

Economics Ethics 37

Economics Investment 12, 58

Energy 39

English as a Second language 11 Environment 37

Exercise 46

F Famous People 14, 15, 52, 55, 57

Film 30

Food 15, 52, 59

Food History 35, 37, 38, 47, 39

Forensic Science 40

Future 50

G

Games 22, 26, 30, 55 Bowls 41

Bridge 11, 46

Canasta 46

Canasta Mah Jong 28

Cards 47

Croquet 44, 50

Mahjong 46, 54

Pétanque 17

Pickleball 50

Table Tennis 45

Genealogy 27

Geography 13, 30, 40

Geology 45

H

Health 13, 14, 16, 32, 39, 40, 45, 47, 50, 58

Medical Matters 36 58

History 21, 27, 31, 35, 40, 55, 18, 19, 39, 42

Ancient 15, 22, 32, 33, 40

Architecture 16, 16

Asia 44, 44

Australia 13, 19, 30, 32, 38, 39, 45, 51

Aviation 54

China 31, 50

Culture 25, 31, 32, 33, 39

Current Affairs 35, 36, 37, 40 Europe 38

Famous People 34

Food 42

Genealogy 26

Geography 16

India 33

Local 53, 22, 23

Maritime 38, 39, 52, 55 Middle East 39

Papua New Guinea 13, 15

Politics 32

Religion 35, 40

Technology 33, 40

Transport 32

USA 45

War 15, 33

Western Sydney 19

World 29, 49

Human Body 49, 59

I Indigenous Australians 44

Information Technology 19

International Relations 18

Internet 21 Computers 16, 16

Technology 58

L

Language 23, 32, 34, 52, 58

Creative Writing 57

English 13

ESL 11

French 14, 20, 21, 31, 33, 43, 44, 45, 53, 57

German 33, 53, 55

History 49

Italian 22, 59

Japanese 12, 12

Latin 43, 44, 51, 53

Russian 57

Spanish 12, 53, 57, 58, 60

Mandarin 57, 59

Law 18

Legal 44, 49, 52, 55

Legal Matters 34, 35, 36

Literature 22, 34, 37, 39

Literature 15

History 15, 53

M

Mathematics 19

Media 34, 49

Culture 31

Medical and Legal 19

Medical Matters 34, 36, 37, 38, 46, 50, 59

History 47

Movies 28

Music 13, 15, 21, 22, 27, 30, 31, 33, 35, 36, 37, 42, 43, 45, 46, 51, 57

Music Appreciation 18, 20, 42, 47, 48

Music Guitar 43

Music Keyboard 36

Music Opera 28, 30

Music Performance 43

Music Recorder 12, 31, 45, 52

Music Singing 39, 43

Music Ukulele 13, 42, 43, 54

N

Nature 15, 28

O

Outdoor Outings 28, 28

Outdoors 25

Bushwalking 24

Eating Out 17, 24, 25, 40

Galleries 17

Sketching 24

Walking 24, 55

P

Philosophy 13, 43, 51

Psychology 38

Photographs 27

Photography 37, 46, 58, 25

Poetry 53, 56

Politics 15, 16, 50

Current Affairs 37, 58

USA 19

Psychology 50

Publishing 37

Q

Qigong 11, 44

Tai Chi 11

Qigong, Fan, and Collaborative Tai Chi 11

R

Relaxation Exercise 11

S

Salsa Plus More 11

Science 18, 21, 32, 34, 36, 47, 58, 59

Chemistry 18

Health 27

Famous People 39

History 36

Medical Matters 34, 47

Nature 15, 34, 38, 46, 47, 58, 59, 31

Technology 37, 38

Travel 31

Sociology 19

Sociology History 12

T

Tai Chi 14, 26, 51, 51

Technology 19, 32, 37, 44, 49, 50

Computers 16, 17

Innovation 19

Television 46

Theatre 43

Travel 13, 22, 34, 39, 50, 52, 59

Culture 31, 35

History 60

Outdoors 33

Transport 40

Trivia 46

V Virtual travel 27

W

Wildlife 55

Writing 16, 38, 46

Y

Yoga 42, 44

Culture 30

SUBURBS INDEX

2025 CALENDAR

SYDNEY U3A INCORPORATED

Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts, 280 Pitt Street, Sydney. Phone: 9267 9056

Email: mail@sydneyu3a.org ABN 32 251 810 797

FORM OF NOMINATION FOR OFFICE BEARERS

(This form may be photo copied)

Financial members of Sydney u3a are eligible for nomination and election. Nominations for the positions of President, Vice President (Education), Vice President (Public Relations), Treasurer, Secretary, IT Manager and Administration Manager should be delivered to the Secretary at the above address or email: secretary.sydneyu3a@gmail.com by: 9am, Wednesday, 19th March 2025.

We, the undersigned financial members of Sydney U3A hereby nominate

At the election of Office Bearers for 2025 at the Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 26th March 2025.

Proposer:

Signature:

Seconder:

I agree to stand for the position as nominated

OUR COLOUR BRAND VALUES EXPLAINED:

KINGFISHER BLUE = SHARING

We share our knowledge

GREEN = GROWING

Together we grow our minds

YELLOW = SOCIALISING

We interact and connect with others

RED = PASSION

Our passion is for education

Sydney u3a is a not-for-profit volunteer based organisation providing continuing education opportunities for people who are no longer in full time employment. The courses and talks are conducted in a relaxed environment; are stimulating and interesting across a wide variety of topics. Participating members are provided with the opportunity to form enduring friendships through socialisation and community interaction whilst learning something new.