Talks Courses Events SEMESTER 2 July - December 2023 Sydney u3a Inc. 02 9267 9056 Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics' School of Arts 280 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000 ABN: 32 251 810 797 mail@sydneyu3a.org www.sydneyu3a.org learn laugh live
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 courses and 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, Toongabbie
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 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, and to Kwik Kopy Circular Quay for the printing.
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 3
Sydney u3a Overview 3 Course Listing Order 4 Course Delivery 4 Booking a Course 4 Insurance 4 Principal Officers 4 Regional Presidents 5 President Message 5 VP Education Message 5 Events 6 City and Inner West 11 Eastern 17 Endeavour (Southern) 19 Greater Western 23 Harbourside North 26 Northern Beaches 37 Upper North 44 Zoom Courses 51 Index of Course Topics 56 Index of Course Suburbs 57 Planning Calendar 58
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.
COURSE DELIVERY
The COVID -19 pandemic continues to affect our provision of courses. However, in general most courses are now back face-to-face with some restrictions on seating etc. Details may change after this course book is printed. Any amendments or updates are advised on the main web page and in each region’s online section.
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, 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.gavin.u3a@gmail.com
VP Public Relations Michael Parkinson vppr.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
Treasurer Patrick McGovern sydu3a.treasurer@gmail.com
Secretary Deb Brennan secretary@sydneyu3a.org
Admin Manager Lynda Cronshaw officemgr.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 4
REGIONAL PRESIDENTS
City and Inner West
Vicki Moss
vicki@mcglashan.com.au
Eastern David Rosenwax drosenwax@bigpond.com
Endeavour Southern TBA
Greater Western Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net
Harbourside North Michael Suckling mwsing@tpg.com.au
Northern Beaches Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com
Upper North Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
As we enter second semester of 2023 we are in the process of moving out of our Market Street premises and into our new premises in the Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts. This has involved a great deal of work for the office volunteers and our Executive Committee. Luckily we have been fortunate in securing space similar in size to our current premises, which will enable us to continue conducting classes in the city while accommodating a larger number of participants.
Earlier this year apart from the Sydney AGM, I managed to attend 6 of the regional AGMs - apologies to Eastern Region as I had a dental emergency on that day. The regional committees work very hard to find new courses and venues to accommodate them. I really enjoyed attending their AGMs and meeting both committee members and attendees.
I want to thank all our volunteers who keep Sydney u3a going - the work is much appreciated. Many members don’t realise that we do all of this without any paid staff - we do it for lifelong learning, socialising with our other members, meeting new friends and having fun - and long may it continue. Enjoy Semester 2 courses, talks and events.
Jennifer Waldron
A MESSAGE FROM THE VP EDUCATION
My message in the 1st semester coursebook included my plans for creating new courses in all regions of Sydney u3a. That was easier said than done. In 2nd semester, I will be hosting Zoom meetings with course coordinators, course leaders and interested members to discuss 21st century curriculum development. While we will continue to provide our traditional courses, I have had feedback that many members value socialising, even when it is on Zoom. This means we will be looking to provide Zoom classes where members discuss and interact rather than just watch and listen to a presentation. We will look to develop more activity classes; research and writing projects, harbour cruises and perhaps even group tours of sites around Sydney. Each curriculum development Zoom meeting will be advertised through regional newsletters, so please join in and contribute to making Sydney u3a courses even more interesting and diverse.
Gavin Hamilton Crawford
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 5
GUIDED TOUR OF TRADES HALL (max 15)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West
Cnr Goulburn and Dixon Streets Haymarket
Will be held on: Thursday 27 Jul from 9:45
Designed in the Victorian Commercial Italianate style, the Trades Hall was built as a meeting place for Australia’s trade union movement. This tour will explore its heritage architecture, the history of progressive movements hosted there and its role in broadcasting and literacy services.
Meet at front entrance at 9:45. Start time 10:00.
Free event. Optional Malaysian lunch afterwards.
Bookings essential and only between 9am Monday 17 July and 5pm Wednesday 19 July. Places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 21 July. Essential: please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
TOUR OF ST MARY’S CATHEDRAL (max 20)
Organised by David Wardle City and Inner West
St Marys Rd Sydney
Will be held on: Thursday 3 Aug from 10:30 to 12:00
St Mary’s Cathedral was designed by architect William Wardell after the first cathedral burnt down in 1865. It was substantially completed by 1928, although the spires were not added until 2000. It is built in the Victorian Gothic style, has beautiful stained-glass windows and tells the story of the foundation and development of the Roman Catholic faith in Australia.
A charge of $5 per person, which contributes to the upkeep of the Cathedral, will be collected on the day.
Email bookings only: David Wardle djwardle01@gmail.com
Please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
GUIDED TOUR OF BRISLINGTON MEDICAL AND NURSING MUSEUM (max 15)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West
Cnr Marsden and George Streets Parramatta
will be held on: Tuesday 8 August
Built in 1851, Brislington House is the oldest existing dwelling house in the inner city of Parramatta. The original owner was forced to sell the property after being convicted of stealing stones from the Government Quarry. From 1949 it served as a nurses’ home, and in 1983 it became a Medical and Nursing Museum.
Cost: $3, payable on the day. Optional lunch afterwards at local cafe.
Train 9:50 from Central to Parramatta (T1 line), platform 18. Arrive 10:18. 8-minute walk to Museum.
Bookings essential and only between 9am Monday 24 July and 5pm Wednesday 26 July. Places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 28 July. Essential: please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com
0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 6
EVENTS
TOUR OF THE ANZAC MEMORIAL (max 25)
Organised by David Wardle City and Inner West
Hyde Park Sydney
Will be held on: Wednesday 9 Aug from 11:00 to 12:30
‘To the glory of God, and in honoured memory of the men and women of New South Wales who gave their lives and in gratitude to all who left this state to serve the Empire in the Great War, I unveil this Anzac Memorial’. -Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, 24 November 1934 The Anzac Memorial holds a significant historical collection of approximately 7,000 objects that tell the personal stories of servicemen and servicewomen, and their families. At 11.00am each day, the Memorial pauses for a five-minute Service of Remembrance. Visitors are invited to participate in this moving service with the recitation of the Ode and the sounding of the Last Post and Rouse after one minute of silent contemplation.
Email bookings only: David Wardle djwardle01@gmail.com
Please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
TOUR OF THE GREAT SYNAGOGUE (max 25)
Organised by David Wardle City and Inner West
166 Castlereagh St Sydney
Will be held on: Thursday 10 Aug from 10:30 to 11:30
The Great Synagogue has its origins in the 1820s, and the first Jewish services in Sydney. A synagogue was founded in York Street in 1844, and although a rival congregation was formed on Macquarie Street, the two communities reunited in 1878 to form The Great Synagogue. The building is one of the national treasures of Australia, and one of the most beautiful places of worship of any denomination. The glorious Ark, cedar Bimah and pews, stained glass windows, shining brasswork, intricate tiles and star-studded ceiling are most impressive. The tour cost is $10.
Email bookings only: David Wardle djwardle01@gmail.com
Please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
GUIDED TOUR OF MUSEUM OF PRINTING (max 15)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Cnr Station & Ransley Streets Penrith
will be held on: Tuesday 15 August
The Penrith Museum of Printing houses a collection of fully operational letterpress machinery and equipment. A number of items are more than 100 years old and still running smoothly. View the intricacy of the Linotypes and Intertypes and enjoy the sight and sound of the Wharfedale and Albion presses.
Cost $10, payable on the day. Minimum number: 10. Minimum total payment $100. Optional lunch afterwards at local cafe inside beautiful heritage-listed cottage.
Train 9:18 from Central to Penrith (BMT line). Arrive 10:08. Bus 799 to Museum. Parking on site.
Bookings essential and only between 9am Monday 31 July and 5pm Wednesday 2 August. Places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 4 August. Essential: please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 7
EVENTS
TOUR OF GOVERNMENT HOUSE (max 20)
Organised by David Wardle City and Inner West Conservation Rd Botanic Gardens
Will be held on: Tuesday 25 Aug 12:30 to 1:30 and 1:30 to 2:30
Opened in 1845, Sydney’s Government House is the residence of the Governor of NSW and one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival architecture in Sydney. View the restored historic interiors, the exquisite hand-painted stencil ceilings, and a significant collection of portraits, furniture, decorative arts and gubernatorial memorabilia, many of them produced in NSW and of heritage significance.
Email bookings only: David Wardle djwardle01@gmail.com
Please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
HOW THE COURTS WORK (max 10)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West
Intrigued by what happens in Court? Baffled by who’s who in fancy dress? All will be revealed during this two-part guided visit. Each walk also focuses on the heritage architecture and local history of the area.
Part 1 will be held on: Friday 8 September
Meeting place and further details disclosed when booking confirmed. We explore the workings of the inferior courts sitting at the historic Brickfield Hill courts precinct. We aim to sit in on trials, sentence proceedings and bail applications in the Local Court and District Court.
Finish 12:45. Affordable Korean lunch afterwards.
Part 2 will be held on: Friday 15 September
Meeting place and further details disclosed when booking confirmed. We spend time at Queen’s Square to see how the superior courts operate. We visit the Supreme Court, the Federal Court and the High Court, which is scheduled to sit in Sydney on this day. We may attend a murder trial or sentence proceedings, a civil hearing and some appellate matters. Finish 12:45. Affordable lunch afterwards.
Bookings essential for both dates, but only between 9am Monday 28 August and 5pm Wednesday 30 August. Places determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 1 September. Essential: please 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)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West will be held on: Wednesday 13 September from 10am
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.
Wear sun protection, walking shoes, and carry water. Optional coffee/lunch afterwards at cafe, at own cost.
Meet 10am at bus stop near corner of Oxford and William Streets, Paddington. Bus routes 333, 352, 440.
Bookings essential and only between 9am Monday 4 September and 5pm Wednesday 6 September. Places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 8 September. Essential: please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com
0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 8
EVENTS
GUIDED TOUR OF HISTORIC LINNWOOD (max 20)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West
11-35 Byron Rd Guildford
will be held on: Thursday 2 November
Set within five hectares of grounds with mature trees, Linnwood was built in 1891 as a stately home for George McCredie, a prominent politician, engineer and justice of the peace. Since then, Linnwood has had many lives: as a children’s home, a truant school and a home science training establishment.
Guided tour includes Devonshire tea/coffee. Cost $12 (cash) payable on the day.
Train 9:36am from Central platform 19 to Guildford. Arrive 10:16am. Meet at exit barrier on Military Road for a 12-minute walk to venue. Ample on-site parking.
Bookings essential and only between 9am Monday 23 October and 5pm Wednesday 25 October. Places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 27 October. Essential: please provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
LITERARY FESTIVAL 2024
Organised by Greater Western Region
Wednesday 14 to 16 February 2024
The Carrington Hotel Katoomba
The Sydney u3a 2024 Literary Festival will feature presentations on the theme of Australian Literature.
The Literary Festival continues to be a fabulous event where attendees not only enjoy the beautiful rooms in the historic Carrington, but are treated to sumptuous meals, including wine. A Cocktail Party and Movie Night will add to the merriment as well as a brain teasing Trivia Quiz.
The limit on numbers will be 76 and we expect, as happened in the past, to be booked up early.
Bookings will open on Monday 25th Sept 2023.
Cost for the event includes all meals, wine, accommodation, Movie night, Cocktail Party, and of course, the Festival itself.
• Single room with ensuite approx. $900
• Double or twin room with ensuite approx. $1350
• Final cost will be advised when booking.
For more details and booking form, contact Sue Bailey email gwr1u3a@gmail.com (preferred) 0416 027 049 from Monday 18th Sept
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 9
EVENTS
2024 HOLIDAY: GRIFFITH & THE RIVERINA (max 48)
Organised by Diana Pine Greater Western Region
Sunday 17 March to Friday 22 March 2024
Depart Sunday 17 March 7:15am from Central Station Bay 8 Western Forecourt and 8:00am from Railway St Pennant Hills and 8:30am from Fitzwilliam St Parramatta
Return Friday 22 March at around 5:00pm to Fitzwilliam St Parramatta and 5:30pm to Railway St Pennant Hills and 6:00pm to Central Station Bay 8 Western Forecourt
Cost – Subject to the 2024 coach operating & fuel costs
• $1295 pp for 40 +
• $1325 pp for 35 - 39
• $1355 pp for 30 - 34
• Single supplement $300 (Limited rooms)
During this holiday we will be staying at the Griffith Motor Inn. Over the week we will be exploring the MIA, whilst visiting Careri Gardens, Lillipilly Estate Winery, Piccolo Farm, Whitton Malt House, Southern Cotton ginning facilities, Catania Farm, Pioneer Park, and De Bortoli Winery. Please see a copy of the full itinerary posted on the Greater Western section of Sydney u3a’s website.
Bookings for u3a members (non-member spouses/partners accepted) open on Monday 10 July 2023
Bookings: Diana Pine 4861 3721. Method for payment given at time of booking.
Deposit: $100 must be paid by Friday 22 September 2023. NB: Balance must be paid by Monday 5 February 2024
Cancellation Policy: Travel Insurance is recommended. Full details regarding cancellation by the traveller will be provided at the time of booking.
Inclusions: Air-conditioned coach, accommodation, all meals and entrance fees. NB: If the tour is not full, non-members of u3a will be accepted.
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 10
EVENTS
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.
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 and Saturday from 4 Jul 1:30 to 4:30
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 18 Jul 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 19 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
This course is for exercise in a collaborative atmosphere.
Leader and Bookings: Lois Knight lmknight66@gmail.com
9798 6525
Qigong
COLLABORATIVE QIGONG (max 15)
Every Friday from 21 Jul 10:00 to 11:30 (excluding school holidays)
This is qigong in a collaborative environment, experienced practitioners only. Qigong, according to Chinese culture, is beneficial to maintaining good health.
Leader: Alan Avanzado
Bookings: Denise Yuen sdyuen@gmail.com 0410 570 188
Language ESL
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (max 14)
Every Friday from 21 Jul 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 idiom. 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
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 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Local national and international issues can be discussed with no topic out of bounds. Open discussions always conducted with respect and sensitivity. Everyone is welcome.
Leader and Bookings: John Neely johnwilliamneely@gmail.com 0418 471 183
History Australia
A CHANGING AUSTRALIA
Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Australian history 1850 to the present. From the gold rush in 1851 to 172 years later we are a very changed country. This will be a fascinating study.
Leader: Frank Wilson 8021 7059
Bookings: Betty Candy bjcandy@bigpond.com 9716 4775
BURWOOD RSL
92 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 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 11
Economics Investment
INVESTMENT DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Thursdays from 6 Jul 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 7 Jul 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
Literature ISSUES
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Come and discover, through literature, characters who deal with issues which could be personal, political, domestic or historical. Discover how they deal with them.
First book Innocent Blood by P. D. James.
Leader: Iris Ryall 9744 1647
Bookings: Sol Battino sol.battino29@gmail.com
0421 078 448
BURWOOD: WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY CENTRE
22 Church St
train station nearby parking onsite
Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364
Cinema
CLASSIC MOVIES (max 12)
Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Jul 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
Cinema
POPCORN ANYONE? (max 15)
Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Jul 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)
Music Recorder RECORDER GROUP
Every Tuesday from 18 Jul 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 a local café.
Leader and Bookings: David Young dy4health@optusnet.com.au 0414 249 618 9569 8167
CITY: SYDNEY u3a OFFICE
Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts 280 Pitt Street, Sydney train station, bus stop light rail stop nearby Venue Coordinator Vicki Moss 0417 160 856 vicki@mcglashan.com.au (preferred)
Language French PRE-INTERMEDIATE FRENCH
Every Wednesday from 12 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Two 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. Textbook is Grammaire en dialogues A1, by Odile Grand-Clément.
Leader and Bookings: Annelise Karpos annelisekarpos6@gmail.com 0410 404 940
Writing CITY WRITING CLUB
Alternate Mondays from 17 Jul 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
TUESDAYS IN THE CITY
Every Tuesday from 25 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Bookings: Jane Fissenden 0458 505 101 janeglebe@bigpond.com (preferred)
Famous People Music
1. The Beatles – How they set the rules for modern popular music
25 Jul
How the Beatles revolutionised popular music - their unique compositions, recording, production and arrangements. See, hear, listen and discuss. A true magical mystery tour!
Speaker: Lanning Bennett
Famous People
2. Napoleon
1 Aug
Looking at the meteoric rises and falls in his military and political career with some emphasis on the latter years and their significance to Australia.
Speaker: Geoff Davidson
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 12
Art
3. Growth of privately funded art galleries
8 Aug
Many privately funded art galleries in Australia are deliberately low key. Often smaller and influenced by benefactors’ collecting passion, they are full of marvellous artworks.
Speaker: Ann Sutherland
Famous People
4. Who is Vladimir Putin?
15 Aug
This dictator has dragged Europe into its first major conflict since World War 2. We examine who he is and what he is trying to achieve.
Speaker: Peter Nixon
Famous People
5. Who is Xi Jinping?
22 Aug
No head of China has ruled for more years than Xi since Mao. We examine who he is and what he is trying to achieve.
Speaker: Peter Nixon
Famous People Literature
6. May Gibbs – life and work
29 Aug Part 1 and 5 Sep Part 2
Renowned for Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and the gumnuts, this was only part of her prodigious output covering many disciplines. She also had to carve out a career in a patriarchal world, which could be difficult for a woman to navigate.
Leader: Stewart Reed
Science Inventions
7. Evolution of the microscope
12 Sep
A study of the history of the microscope, plus a look at the first micro-anatomists.
Speaker: Ian Thompson
Famous People Science
8. Isaac Newton (1642 – 1727)
19 Sep
Newton’s achievements include understanding gravity, the discovery of the Laws of Motion, the invention of calculus, and experimenting with nature and the properties of light.
Speaker: Sydney Srinivas
Health
9. Protecting our brains as we age
26 Sep
This talk will discuss the ways we might reduce our risk of dementia and why our blood pressure is such an important part of this.
Speaker: Isabella Cotter
Art
10. Women artists and theosophy
3 Oct
The presentation will explore the many points at which trends in art intersected with spiritualist practices between the wars, e.g. Russian born Theosopher, Wassily Kandinsky.
Speaker: Ann Sutherland
Astronomy
11. Evolution of the universe.
10 Oct
Atoms, stars, planets and life contribute to the process giving rise to humans. The dramatic events shaping our universe are woven into a Big Picture.
Speaker: Ian Bryce
Science Astronomy
12. Do we live in a multiverse?
17 Oct
Some of the more speculative aspects of physics and astronomy suggest that we might be living in one of ‘multiple universes.’
Speaker: Laurie Wilson
Economics
13.Government Taxation and Welfare Policy – Part 1
24 Oct
Growing Government intervention in the economy from the late 18th century to the 1930s. Issues - Corn Laws, Chartism, the Great War and the Great Depression.
Speaker: Terry Farrell
History Ancient
14. Ancient Egyptian funerary ritual
31 Oct
Why did the Ancient Egyptians expend so much money and energy on elaborate burial places? Did they always do so?
Questions to explore.
Speaker: Glennise West
Ethics
15. The pitfalls of gambling
7 Nov
This talk applies basic moral principles to analyse the impacts. Casinos, poker machines, and sports betting, are shown to be a blight on society.
Speaker: Ian Bryce
Economics
16. Government Taxation and Welfare Policy – Part 2
14 Nov
The challenge to Government intervention by Neoliberalism to recent challenges with emphasis on Australian policy making. Significant figures e.g. Ronald Regan, Margaret Thatcher, Joseph Stieglitz.
Speaker: Terry Farrell
Events
17. The Plane that flew around the world the wrong way
21 Nov
The adventures of a Catalina flying boat travelling from Los Angeles to New Zealand and redirected from its normal route after the Pearl Harbour bombing.
Speaker: Winsome Baker
Transport
18. Transformation of road transport in Australia
28 Nov
Transformation of road transport in Australia, covering why go electric; how to charge your EV; and options for your next car or ute.
Speaker: Mary Hendricks
Art Galleries
DECONSTRUCTING CONTEMPORARY ART (max 25)
Every Thursday from 3 Aug 1:30 to 3:30
Visit contemporary art shows in Sydney galleries fortnightly. On alternate weeks, meet at 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
0408 711 672
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 13
Cinema Movies
FILM APPRECIATION (max 20)
Alternate Mondays from 7 Aug 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 sdeferranti@ozemail.com.au 0410 603 425
History Africa
EUROPEANS IN AFRICA
Thursday 10 Aug 1:30 to 3:30
Anglo-French global rivalry led to an agreement amongst European powers to carve up and Civilise, Christianise, and Colonise Africa for commercial exploitation.
Speaker: Jhala Himanshu
Bookings: Jane Fissenden 0458 505 101 janeglebe@bigpond.com (preferred)
Book Group
CITY BOOK GROUP (max 10)
Second Friday of every month from 11 Aug 1:30 to 3:30
Members are invited to select from the wide range of recent literary fiction available from bookstores and libraries. Each member will have the opportunity to present their chosen book for group discussion.
Leader and Bookings: Brenda Saunders brendasaunders059@gmail.com 9399 9850
GLEBE LIBRARY
186 Glebe Point Rd Cnr Wigram Rd Benledi Room
Venue Coordinator Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com (preferred) 0412 595 891
Book Group
FIRST FRIDAY BOOK GROUP
First Friday of every month from 7 Jul 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 jnmacindoe@gmail.com 0424 537 557
Language Japanese
JAPANESE
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 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: Helen Lo 0434 122 366
GLEBE: THE OLD TOWN HALL
160 St Johns Rd
Venue Coordinator Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com (preferred) 0412 595 891
Art Drawing
DRAWING (max 12)
Alternate Thursdays from 20 Jul 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 20 Jul 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.
Leader: Trevor Smith
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 Jul 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
FRIDAY MORNINGS AT THE LIBRARY (max 20)
Alternate Fridays from 28 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Interesting talks covering various topics.
Bookings: Janice Millard rjmillard5@icloud.com 0419 203 361
Literature
1. James Joyce and the scandal of Ulysses
28 Jul
Ulysses was published in France in 1922 and was immediately banned in all English-speaking countries.
Presenter: Margaret Stoljar
Genealogy
2. Exploring your past
11 Aug
Ned Manning wrote Painting the Light to understand how WW2 affected his parents. He encourages others to tell their stories in any art form.
Presenter: Ned Manning
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 14
Geology
3. A planet, its life and rocky relationship
25 Aug
What is geology and why is it important? Examples of contrarian thinking, and demonstrations will show unique characteristics of this big rock we depend on.
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Painting Photography
4. Caravaggio and the power of the cinematic image
8 Sep
How a radical painter of the 16th century changed Italian Baroque Art and how understanding his images can improve photography.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
History Australia
5. The Exiles of Canada Bay
22 Sep
Canadian rebels sent to Australia in the 1840s incarcerated at Burwood, epic journal story of courage and endurance in the land of A Thousand Sorrows-Australia
Presenter: Patricia Skehan
Health
6. Maintain your brain
6 Oct
Are you doing everything you can to avoid the devastation of dementia? Healthy habits are important at any stage of life to keep us living our best lives.
Presenter: Christine Lopacinski
Health
7. Osteoporosis
20 Oct
The history of the silent disease mainly affects people over 65. Hear how it can be managed to try to prevent serious health problems.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
Nature
8. Living for life: local bush. What it offers?
3 Nov
Exploring the Green Way as a place of natural beauty! What are local bush-carers doing, where and why? Hear about local birds. Interest in “nature prescriptions”.
Presenter: Chloe Mason with Jo Blackman
History Australia
9. James Barnett: Architect of a thousand buildings
17 Nov
James Barnett designed and built 1,350 post offices, police stations and court houses all over NSW, including the Sydney GPO.
Presenter: Don Napper
History Australia
10. A Gleam of Gold
1 Dec
Tales from journalist Harry Benjamin, goldfields reporter and our press representative at the 1908 London Olympic Games. Why Harry kept his family secret is amazing.
Presenter: Patricia Skehan
MARRICKVILLE LIBRARY
313 Marrickville Rd JJ Cahill Room
parking nearby train station nearby bus stop nearby Book Group
THE BIG ISSUES BOOK CLUB
Second Thursday of every month from 13 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Recently published non-fiction titles dealing with issues of importance: politics, climate, environment, economics, health, society, science and technology will be chosen by the group and discussed in a comfortable and friendly environment.
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 20)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 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 10)
Fourth Tuesday of every month from 25 Jul 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 rdeanee@optusnet.com 9726 4279
ROZELLE: HANNAFORD CENTRE
608 Darling St Cnr Nelson St wheelchair access
Language French
ADVANCED FRENCH DISCUSSION (max 12)
Every Tuesday from 4 Jul 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 Course Book July - December 2023 15
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)
Every Monday from 17 Jul 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 18 Jul 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
STRATHFIELD CROQUET CLUB
50 Redmyre Rd parking nearby bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com 0419 017 364
Games Croquet
A TASTE OF CROQUET: THREE PRACTICAL SESSIONS
Friday 11, 18, 25 Aug 9:20 to 12:30
Croquet tests both athleticism and the intellect and offers plenty of opportunities to forge harmony between the two. Everything is free including the use of the lawns, facilities, mallets, balls, and coaching in skills, strategies and rules. Bookings: Bob Phillips bobphillips@bigpond.com
OUT THERE
Games Pétanque
PÉTANQUE WORKSHOPS
Four Mondays 3, 10, 17, 24 Jul
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 at 10:15.
Leader and Bookings: Peter Neale and Linda Larsen diamondsky@iinet.net.au 0403 366 613
Outdoors Eating Out **NEW** LUNCH OUT AND ABOUT (max 20)
Second Wednesday of every month from 12 Jul 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 of every month from 20 Jul
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 from Jul (mid-morning to mid-afternoon).
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 of every month from 5 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
Enhance your enjoyment of reading by sharing your ideas with others. Every four weeks we will read and discuss a book, choosing from a wide range of literature. First book is Gospel of the Eels by Patrick Svensson.
Leader and Bookings: Kris Clarke clarketk@gmail.com 9705 1017 (enquiries only)
Games
SCRABBLE CLUB (Pyrmont) **NEW**
Every second Wednesday from 12 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
A fun course to stretch your mind by playing scrabble in a friendly atmosphere.
Leader and Bookings: Deirdre MacFarlane deirdremacfarlane@gmail.com 0414 453 217
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 16
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.
COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA
25 Rowe St
wheelchair access, Bondi Junction train and bus stops nearby
FRIDAYS AT COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA
Every Friday from 28 July 10:30 to 12:00
A variety of presentations of general interest looking at topics relevant to people living in today’s world
NO BOOKINGS are required.
Psychology
1. Living through impermanence or living for life
28 July
Stephen’s presentation confronts the intrinsic impermanence of our lives, how commercial and lifestyle attractions distract from this reality, but how to live for life anyway.
Presenter: Stephen Hill
History
2.British India’s critical role in the mighty British Empire
4 Aug India was the bedrock of the powerful British Empire. Britain’s economic might was largely dependent on India as the Empire stretched from Africa to Australia.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Crime
3. Crime Stoppers
11 Aug
The talk will provide insight into how organised crime syndicates make money and how they launder it. it will include information on human trafficking, counterfeiting, cyber and environmental crime.
Presenter: Peter Price
Law
4. Eugenia Fallini
18 Aug
Mark Tedeschi will talk about his book on Eugenia Fallini
Presenter: Mark Tedeschi
History of Science and Technology
5. James Watt and Matthew Boulton: partners who changed the world
25 Aug
Boulton and Watt were men of ideas and action. They changed the steam engine, creating a machine that turned the wheels of industry.
Presenter: Debbie Rudder
Art
6. Claude Monet
1 Sep
Claude Monet is widely regarded as the founder of Impressionism and for his landscape scenes painted outdoors. We view his major works and learn about his life.
Presenter: Reinhard Ronnebeck
Art History
7. Exploring new/er art galleries-Australia and the world – Part I
8 Sep
Looking at the many Australian examples of private galleries – including the Museum of Old and New Art (Hobart) and White Rabbit (Sydney) and new galleries in Paris, London, Lisbon, Madrid, Berlin and the Middle East
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Technology
8. Cyber scams target you!
15 Sept
Protect yourself from cyber-criminals and stay smart on-line.
Presenter: Nitza Lowenstein
History
9. Eora: The Dharawal clans of Port Jackson prior to 1788
22 Sep
The society and culture of the Dharawal clans.
Presenter: Gavin Crawford
Literature
10. Reading Kafka
29 Sep
‘The Judgement’ and ‘Metamorphosis’ were written in 1912, a time of revolutionary movements in all the arts; Picasso, Stravinsky and James Joyce.
Presenter: Margaret Stoljar
Art History
11. Exploring new/er art galleries-Australia and the world – Part II
6 Oct
Looking at the many Australian examples of private galleries – including the Museum of Old and New Art (Hobart) and White Rabbit (Sydney) and new galleries in Paris, London, Lisbon, Madrid, Berlin and the Middle East.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Religion
12. The History of the Torah
13 Oct
Rabbi Elton has been Chief Minister of the Great Synagogue since 2015. Rabbi Elton has an MA in History at Queen’s College Cambridge and a PHD in Jewish History from Birbeck, University of London.
Presenter: Rabbi Dr Benjamin Elton
Current Affairs
13. The Refugee Council of Australia
20 Oct
A representative of the RCA will give a presentation on the objectives and work of the RCA.
Presenter: Rebecca Langton
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 17
History
14. Karl Marx
27 Oct
Karl Marx revisits the planet to remind us who he was and to observe how we in the 21st century have absorbed or rejected his teachings.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
15. Cuban Missile Crisis – Part I
3 Nov
The Cuban Missile Crisis was a confrontation in 1962. We look at this crisis when the USSR tried to install nuclear weapons in Cuba.
Presenter: Colin Smith
History
16. Cuban Missile Crisis – Part II
10 Nov
The Cuban Missile Crisis was a confrontation in 1962. We look at this crisis when the USSR tried to install nuclear weapons in Cuba.
Presenter: Colin Smith
History
17. A different China story
17 Nov
China in today’s context has parallels in history; knowing this helps widen the range of scenarios beyond what is in the media: Joffre Balce gave us the first part of his talk on 24 February 2023.
Presenter: Joffre Balce
Health
18. An author’s talk with Dr Norman Swan
24 Nov
Dr Norman Swan will talk about his books ‘So you want to live younger longer?’ and ‘So you think you know what’s good for you?’
Presenter: Dr Norman Swan
History
19. The famine in Ukraine 1931-33 – Part I & Part II
1 Dec (part 1) 8 Dec (part 2)
In Ukraine they called the famine of 1931-33 the Holodomor meaning extermination by hunger. More than 3.9 million Ukrainians died of hunger. What did Stalin do to create this huge disaster of human suffering?
Presenter: Colin Smith
CLOVELLY SENIOR CITIZEN CENTRE
40-42 Arden St
On street parking, buses nearby
Discussion Group Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 20)
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Share your opinion on acting, characters, plots, cinematography.
Leader and Bookings: Graham Blazey gblazey@optusnet.com.au 9365 1961 and Gail Filetti rgfil@bigpond.com 9349 5591
Discussion Group
CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Join us, if you are interested in the world around you, occasional debate and social interaction.
Leader Gwen Zeller 0404 781 162 gzeller@tpg.com.au
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) (max 20)
Every Thursday from 4 Aug 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 of month from 5 Jul 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
Book Group
WOOLLAHRA BOOK GROUP
First Thursday of month from 6 Jul 2:00 to 4:00 Goodwin Village Apt 257, 238-290 Jersey Rd Woollahra. Members suggest a book they have read on an interesting subject. Recently published books are avoided because they can be on long local libraries’ reservation lists. New members are welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Janet Sculfer janetsculfer@icloud.com 0427 870 817
Music Appreciation
DISCOVERING FINE MUSIC (Randwick)
Every second Monday from 3 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
We listen to compositions from the great masters, focusing on their lesser known works and 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 each month from 19 Jul 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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 18
ENDEAVOUR (SOUTHERN)
Regional President: TBA
Regional Course Coordinator: Catherine Wormald catherinewormald99@gmail.com
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
CARINGBAH SOUTH: BOTANY
BAY FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
184 Gannons Road
Genealogy
FAMILY HISTORY BASICS (Max 10) ** NEW **
Tuesdays 25 July, 1 Aug, 8 Aug from 10:00 to 11:30 and Friday 11 Aug 10:00 to 2:00
Four sessions to help get you started researching your family history. Sites like Trove, Family Search, Find my Past – Legacy. What about a DNA test? - try Ancestry or My Heritage. At Open Day, volunteers can assist with your research.
Leaders: Lilian Magil lily@researchbylily.com.au 0409 911 402 and Carol Cronan carolcronan@gmail.com 0468 515 670
Bookings: Carole Goodyer goodycj43@gmail.com
0411 529 245
CRONULLA COMMUNITY HALL
Meeting Room 1 38-60 Croydon St
Wheelchair access, train station nearby
Language French
FRENCH FOR INTERMEDIATE SPEAKERS (max 16)
Every Monday from 24 Jul 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
Upstairs Activity Room/Lecture Room 6 Surf Rd
Wheelchair access, lift available and train station nearby
Cinema
AT THE CINEMA – SHOWBIZ CLASSIC FILMS (max 40)
First and Third Thursday from 6 Jul 1:30 to 4:00
Experience and discuss some of the great films in the entertainment world. A program will be available at the first session.
Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund r.englund@optusnet.com.au
Games
BRAIN GAMES (max 20)
Second and Fourth Friday from 14 Jul 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 Ancient RISE AND FALL OF ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL CIVILISATIONS AND EMPIRES (max 25)
First and Third Tuesday from 18 Jul 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: Dorothy Dalyell ddalyell@bigpond.com
Travel
ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS (max 50)
First and Third Wednesday from 19 Jul 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
Language Italian
ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (max 15)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
Learn Italian through stories, poems, songs and recipes, with appropriate grammar, conversation and writing activities, including selected readings about Italy and contemporary Italian politics.
Leader: John Della Torre jrdellatorre@gmail.com 8544 1758 Bookings: Judy Bassford judybassford7@gmail.com 9527 2931
Cinema
FILM APPRECIATION AND DISCUSSION (max 20)
Third Thursday from 20 Jul 1:00 to 3:00 (excluding school holidays)
Two high quality, contemporary films to be viewed over the month in the members own time after a popular vote. Meetings include discussion of film and background information and observations. All members are expected to lead the discussion at least once a semester.
Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au 0423 532 582
Discussion Group
OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP B (max 20)
First and Third Friday from 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 19
Art Appreciation
ART HISTORY (max 40)
Second and Fourth Tuesday from 25 Jul 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 carolcook39@optusnet.com.au 0488 286 324
Discussion Group
OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP A (max 20)
Second and Fourth Wednesday from 26 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
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
Music
HISTORY OF ROCK MUSIC FROM 1960s ONWARDS ** NEW **
First Thursday from 3 Aug 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
This course explores the works of world-famous bands, solo artists and rock musicians. All members of the class will be asked to present biographies with various technologies such as YouTube, DVD, CD and computer presentation.
Leader and Bookings: Robin Hill robinu3asydney@gmail.com
Presentations
BROOME DINOSAUR TRACKS AND OTHER FEATURES (max 80)
Tuesday 29 August from 10:30 to 12:00
Come walk with me to explore the magic of the largest collection in the world of dinosaur tracks and other interesting features in Broome WA. We will examine how preservation of these heritage tracks is being affected by various influences. Enquiries ONLY: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com Bookings not required.
Presenter: Peter White
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 Jul 1:00 to 2:00
The oldest dance form for women explored and expressed to traditional and western music. A fusion of many dance styles tailored to older bodies. A great way to keep fit and have fun. If you can walk you can dance.
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 Tuesday from 18 Jul 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 18 Jul 1:00 to 3:00 (excluding school holidays)
Member-driven art classes where we employ various styles and mediums.
Leader: Christine Horrocks christine.anne7@bigpond.com 0438 614 087
Bookings: Kerrie Gowen kerriegowan65@icloud.com 0409 457 028
GYMEA MIRANDA BOWLING & SPORTS CLUB
691 Kingsway
Games Bowls
LAWN BOWLS (max 10)
First and Third Thursday from 20 Jul 10:30 to 12:00
Learn how to play lawn bowls, with experienced coaches. Lawn bowls is fun whether you are a social player or if you aspire to play competitively. The Club will provide lawn bowls during these coaching sessions. A club joining fee is applicable.
Leader: Kate Wade kathryn55@optusnet.com.au 0432 433 420
Bookings: Marilyn Albertson marilyn.an.8@gmail.com 0448 338 108
GYMEA TRADIES
57 Manchester Rd
Wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 20
Art Urban Sketching
SHIRE SKETCHING (max 40)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
Learn observational URBAN SKETCHING Thursdays and ILLUSTRATE YOUR SHIRE JOURNAL Saturday morning. Sketching parks, nature, architecture, people, bushlands, and historical locations in our beautiful Shire. We frequently join other Sketch Groups. We welcome beginners who say, “But I can’t draw”.
Leaders: Peggy Annabel peggy.annabel@bigpond.com
0402 354 968 and Carol Cook
carolcook39@optusnet.com.au 0488 286 324
Bookings: Julie Donno juliedonno@yahoo.com.au
HURSTVILLE UNITING COLIN MCFADYEN RETIREMENT
47 Woniora Rd (Entrance in Greenbank Street)
Wheelchair access, train station nearby
Creative Writing
CREATIVE WRITING HURSTVILLE (max 10)
Third Tuesday from 18 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Come share your stories and life experiences through the written word.
Leader: Yvonne Tracey
yvonne.calling1@bigpond.com 0415 327 313
Bookings: Patricia Skinner donleyton10@gmail.com
9547 0406
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 19 Jul 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 LIBRARY
26 Letitia St Wheelchair access, parking nearby
Art
ART FOR ENJOYMENT (max 10)
Every Wednesday from 19 Jul 2:00 to 4:00 (excluding school holidays)
The name says it all. Join our group and spend 2 hrs of enjoyment doing any kind of art or craft with a very friendly social group.
Leader and Bookings: Doreen Kellett doreenkellett@live.com.au 0407 276 416
SOUTH HURSTVILLE RSL
The Pinnacles 72 Connells Point Rd
Wheelchair access, parking nearby
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)
Every Monday from 3 Jul 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 594 206
Book Group
AWARD-WINNING BOOKS (max 10)
First Wednesday of every month from 5 Jul 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 Tuesday from 18 Jul 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 carousel2079@gmail.com 0405 311 749
Bookings: Carolyn Schinazzi carolandreno@gmail.com 0433 574 990
SUTHERLAND SHIRE LEISURE CENTRE
1 Rawson Ave
Wheelchair access, parking onsite
Archaeology
ASPECTS OF ARCHAEOLOGY (max 16)
First and Third Friday from 21 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
There is a video each meeting on archaeology followed by reading from articles relating to archaeology.
Leader and Bookings: Mary Armstrong 9534 2675
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SUTHERLAND SHIRE LIBRARY
30-36 Belmont St
Wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby Discussion Group
MAKING THE MOST OF RETIREMENT (max 10) ** NEW **
Third Friday from 21 July 10:30 to 12:00
Conversations exploring aspects of retirement not yet considered. How to feel comfortable in your own skin, discussion on non-traditional, sustainable retirement living options, how to simplify life by having less stuff, keeping mind and body active, smart travel options and more.
Leader and Bookings: Eva Echtner focusze@gmail.com or SMS 0422 433 655
OUT THERE
Outdoors Bushwalking
SYDNEY STRIDERS (max 35)
Alternate Wednesday from 5 Jul 9:00 to 4:00
A variety of walks of Sydney and surrounds, mainly tracks and street walks, going to beautiful and scenic places, with good company. It is expected that all members assist with organising and leading walks. All u3a members are welcome.
Leader: Mary Shannon mshannon@ozemail.com.au
0439 813 174
Bookings: Lesley Tinker tinkertogs@gmail.com
0409 395 492
Outdoors Eating Out
LUNCH A LOT WITH STYLE (max 25)
First Thursday of the month from 6 Jul 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 IN SYDNEY AND SURROUNDS (max 35)
Alternate Friday from 7 Jul
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
Outdoors Bushwalking
WALKING AROUND SYDNEY (max 40)
Alternate Friday from 12 Jul
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: Wendy Donelan wdonelan54@gmaill.com
0402 495 739
Bookings: Jennifer Hawkins jenniferhawkins798@gmail.com (email preferred) 0418 464 253
Outdoors Eating Out FLAVOUR OF THE MONTH (max 10)
Second Friday of the month from 14 Jul 12:00 to 2:00
Explore good food from different cuisines, learn about different cultures around the region and enjoy good company while dining. Each member is expected to organise one lunch for the semester.
Leader: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com 0410 404 351
Bookings: Carol Cook carolcook39@optusnet.com
0488 286 324
Outdoors Bushwalking
ENDEAVOUR CAMPUS WALKERS (max 35)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul
Starting and finishing times will vary Sydney by ferry and foot. Our Walks Program indicates degree of difficulty. We invite everyone to organise one walk each year.
Leader: Jean McInerney jraymond.mcinerney@bigpond.com
0418 453 508
Bookings: June Symes jsymes6@gmail.com
(email preferred) 0408 077 900
Outdoors Sketching
SHIRE SKETCHING – COMPONENT of THURSDAY SESSION (max 40)
Every Saturday from 22 Jul 10:00 Finishing times will vary These Saturday sketching excursions are the practical outdoor component of the Thursday lessons of the SHIRE SKETCHING held at Gymea Tradies. Additional outdoor sketching and meetups announced on ShireSketchers Pinterest.
Leaders: Peggy Annabel peggy.annabel@bigpond.com 0402 354 968
Carol Cook carolcook39@optusnet.com.au 0488 286 324
Bookings: Julie Donno juliedonno@yahoo.com.au
PRIVATE HOMES
Book Group
BOOK BANTER (Gymea) (max 12)
First Friday of the month from 7 Jul 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
History Culture
AUSTRALIA OUR LAND (Gymea) (max 10)
Every Wednesday from 19 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
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 9524 2018
Bookings: Trevor Campbell 9525 6970
History Gardens
THE HISTORY OF GARDENS (Kirrawee) (max 10)
Second Monday of the month from 14 Aug 1:30 to 3:30
A History class, but from a different perspective. Discovering the people who became famous because of their interest in Botany.
Leader: Nola Watt 9545 1758
Bookings: Liz Rutledge lizrutledge93@gmail.com
0435 178 315
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GREATER WESTERN
Regional President: Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net (preferred) 0418 447 754
Regional Course Coordinator: TBA Enquiries only
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
BLACKTOWN: WESTPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE
Alpha St, up ramp
Community Room, Fourth Floor wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
Games
FUN AND GAMES (max 20)
Every Friday from 7 July 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
BLACKTOWN LIBRARY
Cnr Flushcombe Rd and Alpha St Community Room wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
History Genealogy
FAMILY TREE MYSTERIES (max 10)
Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This is a support group for those researching their family history. Members range from beginners to those with over thirty years’ experience in genealogy. Join our friendly and helpful group whose members assist each other to solve their genealogy problems.
Leader and Bookings: Roslyn McMullen rmrfm12@gmail.com (preferred) 0416 926 032
CASTLE HILL WARRINA VILLAGE (ANGLICARE RETIREMENT VILLAGE)
Alix Scott Community Centre Langshaw Circuit Parking nearby
Discussion Group Current Affairs ISSUES AND IDEAS
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This is a lively discussion group. We research and discuss papers on a wide variety of contemporary issues, taking turns (voluntary) to lead discussion on one particular issue per session. We sometimes invite outside speakers to lead the discussion. Will deliver on Zoom if needed.
Leader and Bookings: Jim Gray jcgray01@optusnet.com.au
9680 2873 and John Brockman
alban.kingslangley@gmail.com 0400 422 962
MARAYONG: COMMUNITY CENTRE
62 Railway Rd
Onsite parking, adjacent to public transport, wheelchair access
Tai Chi
TAI CHI/QIGONG
Every Tuesday from 18 Jul 10:00 to 11:00
Not school holidays
The low impact nature of Tai Chi/Qigong is suitable for people of all ages. An oriental exercise that has been shown to improve balance, co-ordination, posture and flexibility. It also helps reduce the risk of falls in older people.
Leader and Bookings: Ellen Pilgrim stanp@optusnet.com.au 0407 450 291
NORTHMEAD: NBC SPORTS CLUB
166 Windsor Rd
Wheelchair access, parking onsite, bus
Discussion Group
A LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Have your say. I may not agree with what you say but I will defend your right to say it.
Leader and Bookings: Judy McShane 0419 406 912
PARRAMATTA PHIVE
5 Parramatta Square
wheelchair access, train station nearby
SINGLE SESSION TUESDAYS
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Bookings: Lorraine Michalk Imichalk@optusnet.com.au
Ann Todd billmass1@bigpond.com
Music Appreciation
1. Is the banjo a forgotten instrument
11 Jul
The history and construction of the banjo with the group playing tunes.
Presenter: Dennis Quinlan
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History Australia
2. Symbols of Australia
25 Jul
This talk surveys Australia’s national symbols, from the formal and commercial to the popular and quirky, examining their origins and how they have changed.
Presenter: Richard White
Language
3. From Beowulf to Bunyips via The Jabberwocky
8 Aug
How much do you know about the English language, where did it all come from and how Australian English fits.
Presenter: Patricia Manser
Medical Matters
4. Quackery the worst ways to cure everything
22 Aug
The golden age of quacksalvers-a historical look at quackery from the Middle Ages to current time and the treatments that these medical-peddlers offered.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
History Australia
5. A goldminer’s fortune
5 Sep
The story of Martin Loughlin, “Quartz King”, racehorse owner and philanthropist, and of Thomas O’Loughlin, who inherited the fortune.
Presenter: Anne Ridley
Language
6. Makings of the Macquarie Dictionary
19 Sep
How did this quintessential Australian dictionary come to be?
Presenter: Patricia Manser
Craft
7. The art of quiltmaking
3 Oct
A brief history of quiltmaking with some traditional and contemporary quilts for display and discussion.
Presenter: Elisa Beecham
History China
8. China: Not what you think
17 Oct
Gives an insight into China in the past and now.
Presenter: John Parsonage
Computers Legal
9. ID Support NSW
31 Oct
Advice on how to spot a scam, run a credit check, learn about the benefits of creating strong passwords and spend one-on-one time with the ID support team.
Presenter: NSW Dept of Customer Service
Science Physics
10. Physics: made simple
14 Nov
Will look at how physics applies to everything we do in an easy to understand way.
Presenter: John Parsonage
Genealogy
GROWING YOUR FAMILY TREE (max 15)
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 12:00 to 2:00
Interested in your family history? Join a friendly, helpful group all engaged in digging up their ancestors.
Leader and Bookings: John Venables
john_venables@yahoo.com 0490 776 561
Calligraphy
CALLIGRAPHY (max 18)
Alternate Thursdays from 13 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Learn beautiful writing and discover your artist within. A continuing course. No experience or talent necessary but time and effort essential. Will alternate with Zoom sessions. First session will be on Zoom 13 Jul, then 27 July at Parramatta
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)
Alternate Wednesdays from 19 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
This program is designed to share beautiful moments in classical music, particularly opera. Experience the uplifting feeling of listening to music by composers who have been able to express in their music, feelings and emotions that are otherwise inexpressible.
Leader and Bookings: Peter Anderson
oeuvres@tpg.com.au (preferred) 0416 019 512
FRIDAY HISTORY WITH COLIN SMITH
Alternate Fridays from 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Bookings: Steve Bensley steveben@aapt.net.au (preferred) 0401 454 364
History
1. The Conquistadors
21 Jul to 29 Sep (6 sessions)
The Conquistadors destroyed the empires of the Aztecs and Incas and sent great wealth to Europe. This changed the balance of Power. But were they as brutal as depicted.
Presenter: Colin Smith
History Europe
2. The Fourth Crusade
13 Oct
How did a Christian Crusade end up capturing two Christian cities, including Constantinople, looting the churches, and killing the priests?
Presenter: Colin Smith
History Europe
3. Vasily Grossman
27 Oct
Great Russian novelist and war correspondent whom Stalin disliked. Survived campaigns of denunciation.
Presenter: Colin Smith
Book Group
BOOK OF THE MONTH (max 20)
Fourth Monday of the month from 24 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Discussion group. New members most welcome. Share the experience, expand your understanding and enjoy the process.
Leader and Bookings: Judy McShane
judymcs@hotmail.com (preferred) 0419 406 912
Book Group
THRILLERS AND MYSTERIES (max 10)
Fourth Thursday of the month from 27 Jul 12:30 to 2:30
Join a monthly book reading group for those who read for entertainment and love ‘whodunits’. We each take turns in selecting two authors for the following month.
Leader and Bookings: Ann Todd 0428 857 790
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TOONGABBIE: ST ANTHONY’S CHURCH HALL
Aurelia St
Wheelchair access, train station and bus stop nearby Games Canasta Mah Jong
MONDAY CANASTA AND MAH JONG
(WESTERN STYLE) (max 25)
Every Monday from 3 Jul 1:00 to 3:30
Learn Canasta and Mah Jong (Western Style). Practise, refresh and polish up your skills for both these social games with a friendly group.
Bookings: Kerrie Booth 0431 953 419 June Keith junekeith@optusnet.com.au 0412 040 230
Dance
BALLROOM DANCING (max 30)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Not school holidays
Have fun! Learn the basic steps of Latin American, Traditional Ballroom and New Vogue dancing. No partners required.
Leader and Bookings: Cecilia Padlan cbeauty023@gmail.com 0415 965 325
Dance
RHYTHM of the DANCE, LINE DANCING (max 30)
Every Wednesday from 19 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Not school holidays
Dance away to the music of the Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba, Tango and more in this relaxed easy to follow class while helping your balance and memory skills. A carefree 2 hours of fun and learning.
Leader: Bobbie Kersten bobbiekersten@gmail.com 0410 873 605
Bookings: Carol Limbo carohlinaalbina@gmail.com
(preferred) 0421 618 081
EMAIL
Creative Writing
WRITING CREATIVELY
Alternate Mondays from 3 July
Learn the skills of transforming experiences into prose and poetry and share the results in a friendly supportive environment.
Leader and Bookings: Glennis Henning ghenning1940@gmail.com 0411 108 832
OUT THERE
Outdoor Outings
SYDNEY u3a WESTERN WALKERS
Alternate Fridays from 21 Jul
A variety of walks in Sydney and surrounds ranging from easy to hard grade bush, track and street walks, seeing beautiful and interesting places (some historical). Public transport used on some walks. Walkers encouraged to lead some walks.
Leader and Bookings: Keith Austin 0437 537 137 (text only) panaust@tpg.com.au
Movies THE MOVIE CLUB
Fourth Tuesday of the month from 25 July
Not school holidays
Come and see a new release movie at various cinemas, and then have lunch or coffee afterwards to discuss the film. Booked participants will be notified of films and locations by email 1 week prior.
Leader and Bookings: Judy Buhagiar judybuh@outlook.com (preferred) 9631 4102
Outdoor Outings
WALKING AROUND GREATER SYDNEY (WAGS) (max 25)
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul
A variety of walks around Sydney and surrounds ranging from medium to easier bushwalks, track and street walks. Various locations and times. Booked participants will receive an email the Friday before each planned walk with details.
Leader and Bookings: Liz Ryan ryanliz1956@gmail.com 0431 771 884
PRIVATE HOMES
Cinema Movies
ANYONE FOR MURDER? (Sth Wentworthville) (max 5)
Every Wednesday from 5 July 10:00 to 12:30
Leader will determine alternate Wednesday session. Participants offered a selection of DVDs and videos of murder mysteries featuring well-known fictional sleuths such as Morse, Barnaby, Miss Marple & Hercule Poirot. Episodes of Endeavour, Lewis and Vera will be included.
Leader and Bookings: Bev Cockburn
bevco4@bigpond.com
History World
(preferred) 0408 489 804
EXPLORING THE PAST (Sth Wentworthville) (max 5)
Every Thursday from 13 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Leader will determine alternate Thursday session. Video clips and discussion about various famous people and events of historic importance from the past.
Leader and Bookings: Bev Cockburn
bevco4@bigpond.com (preferred) 0408 489 804
Desktop Flying
DESK-TOP FLYING FOR SENIORS (Carlingford) (max 6)
Alternate Tuesdays from 4 July 1:30 to 3:30
Frustrated aviators can learn to fly/navigate/enjoy scenery, on a large screen, from some of 22,000 airports around the world using a stable of 180 aircraft (Wright Brothers to an A380). No flying experience necessary.
Leader and Bookings: Keith Manwaring 9872 2907 snrpilot18@gmail.com
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HARBOURSIDE NORTH
Regional President: Michael Suckling mwsing@tpg.com.au
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.
CASTLE COVE: THE RESIDENCES
8B Deepwater Rd off Eastern Valley Way
Parking nearby
Venue Coordinator Barbara Boston nboston@bigpond.net.au (preferred) 9417 2967
TUESDAYS AT CASTLE COVE
Every Tuesday from 11 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org or Barbara Boston nboston@bigpond.net.au (preferred) 9417 2967
Current Affairs
1. Small European countries
11, 18 Jul
Putting the microscope on some of Europe’s micro-nations, relics of Europe’s complex history which still survive. 1:The Vatican and Andorra. 2: Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino and some other oddities.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
History
2. Fiji - an insider’s perspective Part 1: 1800’s
25 Jul
Early cannibal and tribal warfare days, arrival of the missionaries, the first European settlers, cession to Queen Victoria, early colonial days, Indians coming to Fiji and the alternative.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
History
3. Patrols into the Stone Age
1 Aug
Dave Wilkins served three years in PNG during the 1960’s where his patrols into the wilds of that land provided many adventures including confrontations with cannibals.
Presenter: Dave Wilkins
History
4. Fiji - an insider’s perspective Part 2
8 Aug
Steps forward (1960’s to the present). The final days of the Colonial Government, independence and the political adolescence after that, leading ultimately to the Coups and then the rebuilding.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Music History
5. A history of early music: romantic and before
15 Aug
Using sound recordings and the spoken word we trace the development of western music from the medieval era to the late 19th Century.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Music History
6. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
22 Aug
Mozart was a prolific and influential composer of the Classical period. Despite his short life, he composed more than 800 works across virtually every genre of his time.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Technology
7. Artificial intelligence - past, present, and future
29 Aug
An easy-to-follow introduction to the state of AI in popular culture and the real world, including the arguments about its potential benefits and risks and what the future may hold.
Presenter: Jeff Burgess
Science
8. One planet, its people and their rocky relationship
5 Sep
We owe our very existence to special features of our planet and its dynamic behaviour, which is why a knowledge of geology is vital to our survival.
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Art History
9. Paradise on earth: Enclosed gardens
12 Sep
A look at the history, mystery, and mythology of gardens depicted in selected works of art. Artists have observed and reflected on life around them to produce unique creations.
Presenter: Robijn Alexanda
Art
10. Cave Art: European and Asian
19 Sep
Using DVDs, we look at two examples of cave art: (i) Paleolithic art in Spain and France (ii) Buddhist art of the Mogoa Caves (Thousand Buddha Caves) of northwest China.
Presenter: Barbara Boston
Travel Culture
11. Japan - the island country of East Asia
26 Sep
The history and geography of Japan, population demographics, language, religions, political system, their constitution, the role of the Imperial Family and other aspects of Japan, including their parliamentary democracy.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Current Affairs
12. Modern democratic governments
3 Oct
The global custodians of ‘democratic freedom’ insist that they are the ‘true’ representatives of their people. But whose interests do they actually represent? Let us look at some modern democracies.
Presenter: Himanshu Jala
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Travel
13. Living and working in Japan as a foreigner
10 Oct
We consider Japanese customs, business culture, travel, schooling, etiquette, cuisine and fashion, plus the correct way to bow and other quaint aspects of daily life in Japan.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Travel
14. Six World Heritage sites worth visiting (part 1)
17 Oct
The cultural context, history, and, where relevant, geological and topographical history, biodiversity, and history of contact with humanity of each site (DVD presentation). Easter Island and the Maoi; Teotihuacan Largest City of Mesoamerica.
Presenter: Barbara Boston
Travel
15. Six World Heritage sites worth visiting (part 2)
24 Oct
Ancient Egyptian Thebes; Ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Presenter: Barbara Boston
Travel
16. Six World Heritage sites worth visiting (part 3)
31 Oct
Virunga National Park Gorilla Sanctuary; Canada’s Rocky Mountains.
Presenter: Barbara Boston
Advertising
17. Adventures in advertising
7 Nov
Tom worked on major international campaigns in Sydney, Singapore and London, before opening his own agency. He will talk on the highs and lows of the advertising industry.
Presenter: Tom Glynn
Medical Matters History
18. Top medical advances of all time and recent breakthroughs
14 Nov
There is little doubt that identifying diseases and their treatment is as old as humanity itself. We discuss the treatment advances old and new.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayke
History War
19. Three Vietnam Wars 1946-1975
21 Nov
Three Vietnam Wars from 1946 to 1975 were separate but all connected. This talk discusses each, plus the main controversies surrounding the second (the American) War.
Presenter: Dave Wilkins
Art History
20. Christmas signs and symbols
28 Nov
This presentation is a selection of works of art featuring stars, angels, gifts, family feasts, trees and images illustrating the narrative of the birth of Jesus that is celebrated in December each year.
Presenter: Robijn Alexanda
CHATSWOOD: DOUGHERTY COMMUNITY CENTRE
7 Victor St parking nearby, wheelchair access Venue Coordinator Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Music Recorder
RECORDER GROUP
Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Have fun playing descant, treble and tenor recorders. This group uses Book 2 of the set tutor Learn to Play the Recorder by Brian Bonsor and plays 3-part music.
Leader and Bookings: Katie Lucy-Smith 0404 839 826
Music Recorder
ADVANCED RECORDER
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 10:30 to12:30
Treble, tenor, bass and descant players welcome. Basic sight reading is essential. The emphasis is on playing musically. Leader and Bookings: Katie Lucy-Smith 0404 839 826
TUESDAYS AT CHATSWOOD
Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Music
1. The World of Classical Music
11, 25 Jul, 8, 22 Aug, 5 Sep
If music be the food of love, give me an excess. Be prepared to feast on a galaxy of composers: some you will know, others you may not, and others who you don’t know you don’t know.
Presenter: John Yates
: Robert Henderson robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001
Current Affairs
2. Australia - Fiji Relations: Frenemies?
1 Aug
The complex political relationships between Fiji and Australia and the impact of the Chinese in the Pacific, seen through the eyes of a Fiji European.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
History
3. The final, fateful feast on RMS Titanic
12 Sep
The table accoutrements and menus offered to passengers, showing the food consumed by the different classes in the days and moments leading to the sinking of the Titanic.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Bookings: Annemarie Moore mooreannemarie1948@gmail.com (preferred) 0421 716 232
History Literature
4. Mary Wollstonecraft revisits
19, 26 Sep
Mary revisits our planet to tell us about her life as an early feminist and author and to reflect on how much has changed for women since the 18th Century.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes
rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Music
5. A history of early music: romantic and before
17 Oct
The development of western classical music in Europe from the Dark Ages until the end of the 19th Century.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
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Bookings
Music
6. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
24 Oct
The life and music of the great composer. Presenting one of the greatest composers of the Classical era.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Bookings: Annemarie Moore
mooreannemarie1948@gmail.com (preferred) 0421 716 232
Music
7. Remembering the music of the 1950’s to 1980’s
31 Oct
Relive some of the biggest years in music history as a flood of memories come your way. A must for all baby boomers.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Ethics
8. How do you want to go?
7 Nov
People choose to dispose of their bodies based on their religious beliefs or personal preferences. In this era of climate change, global warming and diminishing available grave sites, more people are looking for ‘greener’ funeral options.
Presenter: Paula Castile
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Medical Matters Health
9. Drugs that affect mood and behaviour - part 1
14 Nov
Learn how alcohol, cannabis and benzodiazepines (Valiumlike drugs) work in the body and the dangers associated with their use.
Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes
rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Medical Matters Health
10. Drugs that affect mood and behaviour - part 2
21 Nov
‘Ice’, Ecstasy and cocaine are just some of the illicit substances causing problems today. How do they work in the body and what dangers are associated with their use?
Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes
rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Travel
11. About herbs and spices
28 Nov
“Herbie” shares his obsession with spices, his family history, debunks popular myths and tells anecdotes from his many trips to exotic climes in search of spices and their origins.
Presenter: Ian “Herbie” Hemphill
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes
rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400
FRIDAYS AT CHATSWOOD
Fridays from 21 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
History
1. From Mongols through to Mughals
21 Jul
History Medical Matters
2. Brief history of medicine and surgery; our body.
28 Jul
Medicine and surgery from the Stone Age to now. Our body, what we are made of, what can go wrong and how to treat it.
Presenter: Dr John Walsh
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Science
3. The James Webb Space Telescope
4 Aug
The design, deployment and operation of Hubble’s successor, the JWST, and the science behind its fabulous early images.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Transport
4. Tramways of North Sydney
11 Aug
Development of tramways in Sydney from the mid19th Century and the construction of the various lines comprising the North Sydney tramways starting in 1886. Presenter: Ronald Besdansky
Bookings: Annemarie Moore
mooreannemarie1948@gmail.com
History Europe
5. The idea of Europe
(preferred) 0421 716 232
18 Aug, 1, 22 Sep, 6 Oct 11:00 to 12:30 Continues the Course presented in 2022. We look at the emergence of a new socio-economic system; the misadventures of the Crusades; and the end of Medievalism, before the Renaissance began to re-create the idea of a “Europe”.
Presenter: Ian de Mellow
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Nature
6. A way forward for conservation in Australia
25 Aug
Australian Wildlife Conservancy and what we do to protect and restore wildlife around the country. Why conservation is important and urgent.
Presenter: Annika Nystrom
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
History
7. The plane that flew around the world the wrong way
8 Sep
A commercial Catalina flying boat flight from Los Angeles to New Zealand was redirected from normal route home after the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
181 091
Genghis Khan and his descendants once conquered and ruled the largest contiguous land empire in history, including prized territories of China, Russia, Iran and India.
Presenter: Jhala Himanshu
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com
(preferred) 0423 947 411
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Current Affairs
8. The growing movement for Australian criminal justice and prison reform
15 Sept 10:00 to 12:00
By Western European standards, Australia has a very high incarceration rate. The Justice Reform Initiative is a nonparty political group committed to reducing Australia’s harmful and costly reliance on incarceration.
Presenter: Robert Tickner
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes
rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 28
(preferred) 0400 181 091
History 9. Judy, the dog that won the Dickin Medal
13, 27 Oct
This is a true story about an English pointer who saved the lives of many prisoners of war trapped in Sumatra in WWII.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
History 10. A brief history of gold
3 Nov
The lust for gold has permeated human history for thousands of years and it shows no signs of abating. Why?
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
History Australia
11. The first crossing of Australia from south to north
17 Nov
Many attempts were made to cross Australia from south to north. John McDouall Stuart and Burke & Wills tried at similar times. Only one succeeded.
Presenter: Barbara Boston
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP 2
Alternate Thursday from 27 Jul 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: John Yates johnyates80@hotmail.com (preferred) 0437 394 225
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP 1
Alternate Thursdays from 3 Aug 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
Language German
PRACTICE YOUR GERMAN WITH SHORT STORIES
Every Thursday from 3 Aug 1:00 to 3:00
An intermediate course based on 20th century German short stories with English translations. Required text: German Short Stories 1, edited by Richard Newman, Penguin Books 1964.
Leader and Bookings: Bettina Boss
bossbettina3@gmail.com (preferred) 0466 979 460
GREENWICH: THE BAYTREE RETIREMENT RESORT
6 Ulonga Ave (Off Innes Rd) wheelchair access
Venue Coordinator Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
TUESDAYS AT GREENWICH
Every Tuesday from 4 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Astronomy History
1. A brief history of astronomy
4 Jul
How different cultures throughout history have sought to measure and understand the movements and nature of the heavens.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Music
2. A history of early music: romantic and before
11 Jul
The development of Western classical music in Europe from the Dark Ages until the end of the 19th century.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Science Astronomy
3. The James Webb Space Telescope
18 July
The design, deployment and operation of Hubble’s successor, the JWST, and the science behind its fabulous early images pointing the way to future observations revealing more information than ever before.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
Art Appreciation
4. The art of Edouard Manet
25 Jul
Manet deliberately shocked the art world and exemplified the transition from Realism to Impressionism.
Presenter: Reinhard Ronnebeck
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
Current Affairs
5. The world in a grain of sand
1 Aug
Beach and desert sand and how it has transformed our world, including the hidden social and environmental costs of sand mining, and why Australia is selling sand to Saudi Arabia.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
History
6. Islamic civilisation’s contribution
8 Aug
The contribution of Islamic civilisation to human knowledge in philosophy, mathematics, natural sciences, medicine, poetry, architecture and music is immense. This vibrant period is known as its Golden Age.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
History Australia
7. The story of Cockatoo Island
15 Aug
Cockatoo Island was a prison from 1839 and a naval dockyard from 1913. More recently, the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust has transformed it into a cultural precinct.
Presenter: Don Napper
Bookings: Dianna Brooks dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 29
Science History
8. Gas warfare
22 Aug
The German chemist, Fritz Haber, was controversially awarded the 1918 Nobel Prize for Chemistry for developing artificial fertilizer despite introducing poisonous gas warfare on the Western Front in 1915.
Presenter: Don Napper
Bookings: Dianna Brooks dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Nature
9. The impact of weather on the animal kingdom
29 Aug
We look at evolution and climate, and how members of the animal kingdom around the world, including insects, adapt to changing weather throughout the year.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
Current affairs
10. The Middle East in 2023
5, 12 Sep
With the focus on Ukraine, the conflicts and human catastrophe that this region endures are no longer frontpage news.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
Music
11. A history of jazz
19 Sep
A broad survey of the development of jazz music from its African origins to the present day.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Travel
12. The Italian lakes
26 Sep, 3 Oct
The Italian Lakes, formerly Ice Age glaciers, are now tourist high spots. A look at their environment, importance, attractions, history and surrounding towns.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Technology
13. Electricity supply for NSW
10 Oct
Renewables are destabilising the electricity grid. Our existing coal-fired power stations are ageing. Wholesale electricity prices are fluctuating widely. How do we transition to a new energy future?
Presenter: Robert Eales
Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Literature British
14. Shakespeare’s plays – love (or lust) and heroines (1)
17 Oct
Romeo and Juliet. A film version will be shown at 10:30 on 15 Oct at The Baytree cinema. Free access for all booked members.
Presenter: Andrew Caro
Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Literature British
15. Shakespeare’s plays – love (or lust) and heroines (2)
24 Oct
Antony and Cleopatra. A film version will be shown at 10:30 on 22 Oct at The Baytree cinema. Free access for all booked members.
Presenter: Andrew Caro
Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Science
16. One planet, one humanity, and their rocky relationship
31 Oct
We owe our very existence to special features of our planet and its dynamic behaviour, which is why a knowledge of geology is vital to our survival.
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Technology
17. Does our increasing use of technology concern you?
7 Nov
The internet, the web, social media and AI are creating a worrying future for many. Are we becoming too dependent on technology? Are we at risk? Can we protect ourselves?
Presenter: Jennifer Sansom
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
History Australia
18. New South Wales colonial architects
14, 21 Nov
I. The contributions of many important Government Architects, from Francis Greenway to George McRae.
ll. James Barnet, the longest serving Government Architect, built 1350 civil buildings across NSW.
Presenter: Don Napper
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred)
9433 8056
Literature Australia
19. Writers on Sydney harbour
28 Nov
How has Sydney been depicted by writers? Aspects of our harbour in the work of Henry Lawson, D. H. Lawrence, Eleanor Dark, Ruth Park, Julia Baird, Gail Jones and others.
Presenter: Jenny Rudd O’Neill
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
History Australia
20. The bombing of Darwin
5 Dec
Darwin was attacked at 10 am and then again at 12 pm on 19 February 1942. What happened on that day to the people of Darwin?
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
Music Opera
21. Verdi and Puccini
12 Dec
The lives and music of two great opera composers, Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com
(preferred) 0423 397 343
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 30
HUNTERS HILL: C A FAIRLAND HALL
14 Church St
parking nearby
Venue Coordinator Judy Harris JudyHarris2@bigpond.com (preferred) 0447 194 510
MONDAYS AT HUNTERS HILL
Every Monday from 10 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org OR Judy Harris JudyHarris2@bigpond.com (preferred) 0447 194 510
Indigenous Australians
1. Punishment, First Nation’s People
10 Jul
Australia’s First Nation’s people are over-represented in the Australian criminal justice system. Our speaker will discuss the many reasons and what of the future.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO QC
Current Affairs
2. The Middle East today: what is happening and why?
17, 24, 31 Jul
This is an attempt to make sense of the conflicts and power struggles which continue unabated in the Middle East today.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Medical Matters
3. Breast cancer: searching for and discovering the cause
7 Aug
A scientific detective story for non-scientists.
Presenter: Emeritus Prof. Jim Lawson
Music Appreciation
4. Cuba – a musical Journey
14 Aug
Cuba is a 50’s time capsule floating on a sea of music. Share sights and sounds of Graham’s music, focused on his 2017 visit to Cuba.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Travel
5. Living and working in Japan as a foreigner
21 Aug
We consider Japanese customs, business culture, schooling, etiquette, cuisine and fashion plus the correct way to bow and other quaint aspects of daily life in Japan.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Music Appreciation
6. Far out: music in space
28 Aug
Classics, pop, rock: Space has been the inspiration, setting, and even venue, for some remarkable music and musical stories.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
History Australia
7. Pine Gap - the inside story
4 Sept
Pine Gap was established in Alice Springs in 1966. Trained in electronic intelligence with extensive experience in satellite surveillance, David managed its joint defence facility.
Presenter: David Rosenberg
Nutrition
8. Spices: the plants that saved
11 Sept
“Herbie” is one of Australia’s foremost culinary specialists. He has a passion for herbs and spices and is the author of The Spice and Herb Bible 3rd Edition
Presenter: Ian “Herbie” Hemphill
Science
9. Artificial intelligence - past, present and future
18 Sept
An easy-to-follow introduction to the state of AI in popular culture and the real world, including the arguments about its potential benefits and risks and what the future may hold.
Presenter: Jeff Burgess
Art Appreciation
10. New/er art galleries
25 Sept
Collections and foundations have found dazzling new ways to exhibit classic and contemporary art. The talk will illustrate some of the new institutions in Australia and around the world.
Presenter: Dr Ann Sutherland
Language Literature
11. William Shakespeare – his life, times and legacy.
2 Oct
No single writer has influenced how we use the English language more than William Shakespeare
Presenter: John Monro
Music Appreciation
12. History of early music – romantic and before
9 Oct
The development of western classical music in Europe from the Dark Ages until the end of the 19th century.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Music Appreciation
13. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
16 Oct
The life, times, and music of this most famous composer of the Classical era.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Health
14. The Australian paralysis tick
23 Oct
Their distribution, biology, lifestyle and ecology, and impact on health of humans and companion animals. Ticks and their association with meat allergies and Lyme Disease.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Medical Matters
15. Australia wins the world cancer stakes
30 Oct
Australia has the world’s highest rate of cancers: skin cancer, leukaemia, lymphoma and many others are high. What are we doing wrong? What could we do better?
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
Health Medical Matters
16. The human heart: the pump with 80 years warranty
6 Nov
The human heart is a tough and hardworking organ. This presentation is about diseases of and treatments for the heart, including transplants, by-pass operations and more.
Presenter: Punchi Dasanayake
Travel
17. Central Italy
13, 20 Nov
The central Italian regions of Lazio, Umbria and Le Marche, their history, environment and social background gleaned from many visits to towns and countryside.
Presenters: John Flint & Nora Hinchen
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 31
Science
18. A history of the future
27 Nov
Over many centuries, people have attempted to predict how we will live in the future. Many of these predictions have been stunningly accurate and others just amusing and wide of the mark.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Music Appreciation
19. Music from the movies and u3a Christmas party
4 Dec
Some of the major composers who have contributed to the development of film music as an art form and the history of film music generally.
Presenter: Graham Ball
LANE COVE: LIVING AND LEARNING CENTRE
180 Longueville Rd
Venue Coordinator Robert Lynn boblynn03@gmail.com
9433 8066
Book Group
BOOK GROUP
Every fourth Monday from 24 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 Group limited to twelve so everyone has a chance to speak. The first book will be Lessons by Ian McEwan.
Leader and Bookings: Janice Gentle 0458 666 036
MCMAHONS POINT: COMMUNITY CENTRE
165 Blues Point Rd
wheelchair access
Venue Coordinator Lesley Duffill leslie.duffill@gmail.com
(preferred) 0408 097 482
Poetry
POETRY
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This group explores the magic of poetry in its various forms through reading, appreciating and writing. We give and receive friendly, positive feedback. New members welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Geoff Lucas 0432 543 611
Book Group
BOOK GROUP
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul 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 parking nearby, wheelchair access
Venue Coordinator Eve Klein everklein1@outlook.com
9969 7994
MONDAYS AT THE ART GALLERY
Every Monday from 3 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
No booking required
Computers
1. Computing for seniors (part 1)
3 Jul
A brief history of computer development, leading to the modern personal computer and a simple overview of using a PC, including using folders to enable sophisticated filing, naming and searching.
Presenter: Roger McDougall
Computers
2. Computing for seniors (part 2)
10 Jul
Managing mail, Google searching and tips and techniques when using a personal computer.
Presenter: Roger McDougall
Computers
3. Staying safe on the internet
17 Jul
Simple techniques to avoid identity theft, scams and hacking. A non-technical discussion to offer tips and techniques, do’s and don’ts and suggest ways to manage passwords.
Presenter: Roger McDougall
History
4. Pioneering aviation in the Pacific
24 Jul
Traces Pacific island aviation history from Kingsford Smith’s 1928 historic landing in Suva, through the pioneering era and Qantas’ sometimes troubled involvement to today’s Pacific National airlines.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
History Theatre
5. Theatre comes to Australia 1789-1832
31 Jul
The development of the early years of theatre in Australia, from the first convict performance to the opening of the Sydney Theatre Royal.
Presenter: Janet McGaw
History Australia
6. Australian involvement in World Wars I and II
7 Aug
The British Empire was at its peak at the outbreak of WWI in August 1914 and, when Britain declared war on Germany in September 1939, Prime Minister Menzies followed suit.
Presenter: John Walsh
Art Appreciation
7. Monet
14 Aug
Claude Monet is widely regarded as the founder of impressionism, and for his landscape scenes painted outdoors. We will view his major works and learn about his life.
Presenter: Reinhardt Ronnebeck
Travel
8. Central Italy
21, 28 Aug
The central Italian regions of Lazio, Umbria and Le Marche, their history, environment and social background, gleaned from visits to towns and countryside.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 32
Health Current affairs
9. Baby Boomers, Gen X and Millennials
4 Sep
The income, wealth, housing, working conditions, health, education, environmental quality, social connections, safety and inequality of these generational groups and how these contribute to their relative well-being.
Presenter: Peter Abelson
Current Affairs Economics
10. House prices in Australia: 1980 to 2023
11 Sep
A comprehensive exposition of house and unit prices across Australia from 1980 to 2023 along with an explanation of the main causes and the main outcomes for households.
Presenter: Peter Abelson
Current Affairs
11. Local Government in a three-tiered system of government
18 Sep
The principles and practice of the many roles of local government in Australia. How local councils are subject to state government regulations, with special reference to NSW.
Presenter: Peter Abelson
Current affairs
12. Managing Mosman Council in the 1980’s and 2010’s
25 Sep
Some of the main events in Mosman Council between 1979 and 1987 and from 2012 to 2017 and how they were managed. The presenter was Mayor in both these periods.
Presenter: Peter Abelson
Politics
13. Our SE Asian neighbours
9, 16, 23 Oct
This forgotten zone of the earth’s surface has only recently attracted the attention of the major powers again. Why is this so and how does it have an impact on Australia?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Economics Sociology
14. The practice of cost-benefit analysis by Governments
30 Oct
The nature of cost-benefit analysis, its major applications in Australia, key issues in the principles and applications of cost-benefit analysis, some examples, and how this relates to the value of life.
Presenter: Peter Abelson
Literature
15. Writers on Sydney Harbour
6 Nov
How has Sydney been depicted by writers? Aspects of our harbour in the work of Henry Lawson, D. H. Lawrence, Eleanor Dark, Ruth Park, Julia Baird, Gail Jones and others.
Presenter: Jenny Rudd-O’Neill
History
16. How Britain changed the world
13 Nov
The transformation of Britain from a pre-industrial to an industrial society and the shift from traditional farming to a more capital-intensive economy driven by mechanized industry.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science
17. Discoveries, inventions that shaped our world
20 Nov
A look at some of the important discoveries and inventions that have changed the world we live in and the science behind these innovations.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
18. End-of-year celebration
27 Nov
Let’s celebrate another successful year of u3a at the Art Gallery and find out what the future holds for Mondays in Mosman.
MOSMAN ART GALLERY: THE MELODY ROOM
Cnr Myahgah Rd and Art Gallery Way parking nearby, wheelchair access Venue Coordinator Annika Tults annikatults@gmail.com 0404 254 009
THURSDAYS AT THE MELODY ROOM
Every Thursday from 13 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Bookings: Annika Tults annikatults@gmail.com (preferred) 0404 254 009
History
1. The Arab World, the Arab Spring and its aftermath
13, 20 Jul
The Arabs founded Islam, preserved old world knowledge, and created a rich culture. In 2011 their world experienced turmoil which frequently destabilised the region.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Current Affairs
2. Frank and fearless
27 Jul
Our distinguished former DPP will talk about some contentious issues including euthanasia and ICAC as well as reflecting on some notorious cases.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery
Science
3. The year in science
3 Aug
A review of advances in science during 2022.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
History
4. From Minos to Agamemnon: the Aegean Bronze Age
10, 17, 24 Aug
The rise and fall of the brilliant Minoan civilisation, with its opulent palaces and wonderfully naturalistic art and the Mycenaean kingdoms renowned for their imposing walled cities and monumental tombs.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Science
5. The James Webb telescope
31 Aug
The design, deployment and operation of Hubble’s successor, the JWST, and the science behind its fabulous early images pointing the way to future observations revealing more information than ever before.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 33
History
6. The Australian Museum
7 Sep
Sydney’s natural history museum dates from 1827. This presentation introduces the museum’s collection (almost 22 m illion items), buildings, people and important events during its history.
Presenter: Stewart Reed
Power
7. Electricity supply in NSW
14 Sep
Renewables are destabilising the grid and reducing the price of wholesale power. All power stations are ageing. How do we transit to a new energy future?
Presenter: Robert Eales
Travel Culture
8. Japan – the island country of East Asia
Sep 21
The history and geography of Japan, population, demographics, language, religions, political system, their constitution, plus the role of the Imperial Family of Japan.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Travel Culture
9. Living and working in Japan as a foreigner
28 Sep
A foreigner encounters many differences in Japan including cuisine, customs, language and etiquette. Also try your hand at origami before tasting some food.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Current Affairs
10. Should Australia choose between China and the USA?
5 Oct
When two giants clash economically and politically, where does this leave a country that is closely linked to both?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
11. Seven beverages that changed the world
12 Oct
History sometimes hinges on unexpected details. This talk will explore how seven beverages impacted the history and our way of life. Curious? Just come. You will not be disappointed.
Presenter: Thomas Delisi
History Famous People
12. Dining with dictators
19 Oct
The culinary habits of the world’s most notorious 20th century despots: their favourite dishes, eccentricities, table talk, table manners, addictions and frequent terror of being poisoned.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
History
13. Spymasters and Codebreakers of WWII
26 Oct
The career of Leo Marks, his codes and his conspiracy of spies. Not all happy endings!
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Literature British
14. The Brontes of Haworth
2 Nov
This illustrated talk looks at the lives and writings of the remarkable Bronte sisters and their major works, including Jane Eyre. A must for all lovers of reading.
Presenter: Cindy Broadbent
History
15. Immigration 1840’s to 1900
9 Nov
Based on diaries and records we explore the experiences of British, German and Chinese immigrants on sailing ships travelling to the colonies.
Presenter: Gavin Crawford
Science Medical Matters
16. Skin: the largest organ of the human body
16 Nov
Skin covers the entire body, weighs about 20 kg and is the largest organ. We describe the skin in detail, its defects and diseases.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
History Australia
17. Colonial boat builders
23 Nov
The boats and boat builders of Sydney Cove, the Hawkesbury River and Darling Harbour in the early colonial period. Dharawal people, convicts, political prisoners, free settlers, entrepreneurs and currency lads.
Presenter: Gavin Crawford
MOSMAN BOWLING CLUB
15 Belmont Rd
parking nearby
Venue Coordinator Robyn Novakovic
robyn.novakovic@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 434 352
Games Bowls
LEARN TO PLAY LAWN BOWLS (max 20)
Tuesdays from 17 Oct 10:00 to 11:30
A six-week course for beginners (in groups of 4) to learn the basics of lawn bowls with one of our accredited coaches. Improve your fitness and flexibility and have fun along the way. Each session will have an hour of coaching followed by 30 minutes of social bowls. Must book before 2 Oct.
Leader: Robyn Novakovic
Bookings: Anne Richardson u3asechs@gmail.com (preferred) 9419 8143
MOSMAN: THE GARRISON
13 Spit Road (enter from Punch Street) wheelchair access bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator Jenny Rudd O’Neill
Writing
DEVELOPING A PERSONAL STORY (max 16)
Alternate Thursdays from 6 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 (6 sessions)
We will use practical exercises and discussion to build a story of your life, or part of it, or the life of someone you knew well. A friendly, supportive group and beginners most welcome.
Leader: Jenny Rudd O’Neill jennyruddoneill@optusnet.com.au
Bookings: Pamela Tilbrook pamelatilbrook@optusnet.com.au (preferred) 0413 377 212
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 34
THE MANORS OF MOSMAN RETIREMENT VILLAGE
6 Hale Rd, off Military Rd
wheelchair access
Venue Coordinator Margaret Kropman
mkropman@optusnet.com.au (preferred) 0434 839 172
Discussion Group Current Affairs
TOPICAL ISSUES DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Wednesdays from 26 Jul 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 0434 839 172
Discussion Group Book Group
LITERARY DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Tuesdays from 18 Jul 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. New members welcomed.
Leader: Mary Billing
Bookings: Elisabeth Kingsford 9953 6993
MOSMAN SQUARE SENIORS CENTRE
Next to Mosman Council Chambers
Off Military Rd, Spit Junction
Parking nearby, wheelchair access
WEDNESDAYS AT MOSMAN SQUARE
Every Wednesday from 26 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
No booking required
History
1. Pioneering aviation in the Pacific
26 Jul
Traces Pacific Island aviation history from Kingsford Smith’s 1928 historic landing in Suva, through the pioneering era, and Qantas’ sometimes troubled involvement to today’s Pacific National airlines.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Transport
2.Tramways of North Sydney
2 Aug
This talk briefly covers the development of tramways in Sydney generally and the construction of the various lines comprising the North Sydney tramways.
Presenter: Ronald Besdansky
Archaeology
3. Travels in the Land of Incense
9 Aug
In the steps of Dame Freya Stark – a prolific traveller and writer whose books have never been out of print.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Culture
4. The urge to believe - anything
16 Aug
A look at our society in its religion, cultural and scientific sectors show that we are almost drowning in beliefs of a most irrational kind.
Presenter: Rachael Kohn
History Australia
5. Historic houses of Sydney
23 Aug
In about 240 years many houses (and usually gardens) in different styles have been built in Sydney. This describes many regularly open to the public.
Presenter: Stewart Reed
History
6. Sydney Living Museums
30 Aug
Covers the 12 properties of Sydney Living Museums and their other activities including the non-archival activities of NSW State Records.
Presenter: Stewart Reed
Music
7. A history of early music - romantic and before
6 Sep
The development of western classical music in Europe from the Dark Ages until the end of the 19th Century.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Music
8. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
13 Sep
The life and music of one of the greatest composers of the Classical era.
Presenter: Graham Ball
Current Affairs International Relations
9. Lesser-known conflicts in the world
20, 27 Sep, 4 Oct
There is the well-covered conflict in Ukraine and concern about Taiwan, but current conflicts in Armenia, Yemen, Haiti and many parts of Africa, for example, never get much publicity. Why are they taking place and who supports the warring parties?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
10. Japan and Korea
11, 18 Oct
The Far Eastern states of Japan and Korea represent ancient cultures, characteristic ways of life and a long history of cultural and political rivalries.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Legal
11. NSW ICAC: background and recent reports
25 Oct
Why the ICAC exists, what it does, how it operates and recent ICAC reports.
Presenter: Heidrun Blackwood
Science
12. Australian inventions (Part 1)
1 Nov
A look at the people and science behind some of our classic Australian discoveries and inventions from the 19th Century colonial era through to our present time.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Geography
13. Great river systems on our planet
8 Nov
Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilisations they pass through.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 35
Art 14. Mathematics in Art
15 Nov
Visual imagination in Art has often been inspired by mathematics, from the discovery of perspective in the Renaissance to the unreal worlds of Escher.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Legal
15. Human Rights and the Criminal Law
22 Nov
Human rights (otherwise civil liberties) are those rights that we all possess simply by being humans. Sometimes they bounce up against the criminal law.
Presenter: Nick Cowdery
History Australia
16. Australian inventions (Part 2)
29 Nov
A look at the people and science behind some of our classic Australian discoveries and inventions from the 19th century colonial era through to our present time.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
WILLOUGHBY: HYEGROVE DISPLAY SUITE
44 Penshurst St parking nearby wheelchair access Venue Coordinator Mitsuko Provis mitsuko@hyegrove.com.au (preferred) 8045 8694
FRIDAYS AT WILLOUGHBY
Alternate Fridays from 7 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: Mitsuko Provis mitsuko@hyegrove.com.au (preferred) 8045 8694
History Australia
1. The Gardens of Stone – Lithgow
7 Jul
Learn about the campaign to save Lithgow’s Gardens of Stone, a magnificent natural geomorphological wonderland that was finally gazetted as a State Conservation Area in late 2021.
Presenter: Janine Kitson
Science
2. Discoveries, inventions that shaped our world
21 Jul
A look at some of the important discoveries and inventions that have changed the world we live in and the science behind these discoveries.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Current Affairs
3. Update on Russia and Ukraine, and China’s role
4 Aug
This is an attempt to separate fact from fiction in the ongoing conflict and to see what might lie ahead.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Economics
4. Financial security in retirement
18 Aug
Understanding financial options available before and during retirement and understanding the language of money.
Presenter: Lanning Bennett
Social Media
5. Social Media: how it has changed the world
1 Sept
Introduction to social media: the good, bad and ugly and its huge impact on society, politics and individuals.
Presenter: Nitza Lowenstein
Art Science
6. Colour
15 Sept
What is colour, how have we analysed it from both scientific and artistic points of view? How is colour created in nature, and in our attempts to imitate nature?
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Science
7. Australian Skeptics’ scientific investigations
29 Sept
The Skeptics offer a large prize for real evidence of the paranormal or new science. We have investigated many dubious claims and activities, many challenging the laws of physics.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
History
8. The history of human weapons
13 Oct
Historically important weapon developments, including rock throwing, spears, swords, bows and arrows, boomerangs, gunpowder, tanks and many more.
Presenter: David Malone
History Australia
9. Pine Gap
27 Oct
What it does and why it’s there. The ethics of government eavesdropping, whistle blowing and leaking of confidential information.
Presenter: David Rosenberg
Literature
10. Freud and the Oedipus Complex
10 Nov
How Freud used the story of Oedipus in ancient Greek drama to illustrate family tensions which he believed to be universal.
Presenter: Margaret Stoljar
Historic Buildings Australia
11. Queen Victoria Building
24 Nov
The “QVB” was designed by 28-year-old architect George McRae as a monument to the long-reigning monarch, Victoria, and built in 1898 to replace the Sydney markets originally on the site.
Presenter: Natalie Cody
OUT THERE
Outdoors Eating out
THIRD FRIDAY LUNCH GROUP
Third Friday of each month from 21 Jul
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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 36
NORTHERN BEACHES
Regional President: Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com
Regional Course Coordinator: Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au Enquiries only
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
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 Jul
Group 1: 9:30 to 12:15; Group 2: 12:15 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 12 Jul 11:00 to 1:00
Washaway Room Level 3
A wide range of authors and their books are discussed. These include The Lincoln Highway by Amor Towles, All That’s Left Unsaid by Tracey Lie, Eggshell Skull by Bri Lee and An American Marriage by Tayan Jones.
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 6 Oct 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 21 Jul 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 are mandatory!
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 of every month from 28 Jul 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 Ireland
1. The modern history of Ireland
28 Jul
Ireland is in the midst of great change. Remember Bloody Sunday, the Good Friday Agreement and now 25 years on, Brexit. Don’t miss this insightful talk by a masterful presenter. Presenter: Peter Nixon
History Australia
2. Dirty secrets
25 Aug
Meredith Burgmann joins us again, this time to let us in on ASIO’s Dirty Secrets. Michael Kirby Justice of the High Court was on their list. Are you?
Presenter: The Hon Dr Meredith Burgmann
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 37
Cinema
3. The golden years of Hollywood
29 Sep
Join us as Nitza Lowenstein takes us on nostalgic journey through the movie industry, Hollywood’s Golden Age, the glamour, glitz and the stars.
Presenter: Nitza Lowenstein
Inventions
4. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie
27 Oct
This time Ian looks at more amazing Aussie inventions. Google Maps would you believe, Wi-Fi, surely not, how about Permanent Press Clothing, Ultrasound Scanner, the Pacemaker? Oi, Oi, Oi!
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Travel
5. Small European countries
24 Nov
Bet you haven’t thought about visiting Liechtenstein or Andorra in your travels. Come and hear Graham Spindler tell us all about the fascinating micro countries of Europe. Bring your passport and enjoy the journey.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
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 4 Jul 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
MONA VALE MEMORIAL HALL
1 Park St wheelchair access, parking nearby
Venue Coordinator Marcia Andrews marciaandrews711@hotmail.com
Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE ONGOING
Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Gentle paced course for people familiar with grammar and reading skills. Book used is Short Stories in French by Olly Richards and Richard Simcott (beginners).
Leader and Bookings: Olivia Kesby olivia.kesby@gmail.com
Language French FRENCH LEVEL 4
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
For those who already have a comprehensive grasp of grammar and conversation. Textbooks used, plus a variety of literature.
Leader and Bookings: Sarita Wright saritawright35@gmail.com
Language French FRENCH LEVEL 3
Alternate Mondays from 17 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
This course covers reading, writing, grammar and conversation. Must have basic knowledge of the language. Textbook: Schaum’s French Grammar Leader and Bookings: Sarita Wright saritawright35@gmail.com
NARRABEEN NORTH: NARRABEEN BAPTIST CHURCH
13 Grenfell Ave (cnr Wakehurst Parkway) wheelchair access, parking onsite
Venue Coordinator Barbara Larkin jeddasam1@bigpond.com 9913 3481
Music Ukulele
UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS
Every Tuesday from 4 Jul 11:45 to 1:00
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
First three Wednesdays every month from 5 Jul 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 is needed. Bring own guitar and music stand. Due to popularity, places are limited. Leader and Bookings: John Mitchell johntmitchell@hotmail.com 0481 516 498
Music Performance
THE 3RD AGE ROCK ORCHESTRA
First three Wednesdays every month from 5 Jul 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. There’s a waiting list for membership.
Leader and Bookings: Harvey Broadbent
3rdagerockorchestra@gmail.com 0414 486 675
Art Painting
CREATIVE PAINTING WORKSHOP
Every Thursday from 6 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Education Centre GF
A relaxed group with varying levels of skill, we work on our own projects and are self-directed. If you love your art, join our group where we commonly share techniques, ideas and information.
Leader: Suzanne Allan zanne07@gmail.com
Bookings: Susan Davies daviessusan13@gmail.com
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 38
Music Singing SINGING FOR THE JOY OF SINGING
Alternate Fridays from 7 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Auditorium
Join us in 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
Language French FRENCH BEGINNERS ONGOING
Alternate Fridays from 7 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Education Centre GF
Gentle paced course suitable for people with some knowledge of French. Book used is Easy French Reader by R. de Roussy de Sales. Not suitable for absolute beginners or those who have not studied French for many years.
Leader and Bookings: Olivia Kesby olivia.kesby@gmail.com
Language French ADVANCED FRENCH
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Level 1, Room 2
Focusing on grammar, reading and conversation.
Leader and Bookings: Sarita Wright saritawright35@gmail.com
Philosophy
HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY 5
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Education Centre GF
We cover key ancient and modern Western philosophers in the area of 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
Philosophy
HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY 6
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Education Centre GF
We cover key ancient and modern Western philosophers in the area of 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 BEGINNERS II (max 10)
Alternate Fridays from 21 Jul 12:30 to 2:30
No classes 13 Oct to 10 Nov
Education Centre GF
Continuation of Beginners Level Latin including Classical Latin grammar, sentence formation and vocabulary through exercises and readings with the objective of introducing you to Latin literary texts.
Text: The Oxford Latin Course Part 1 – Student Book (ISBN 9870 199122264).
Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170
NARRABEEN NORTH: NARRABEEN RSL CLUB
116 Nareen Pde parking onsite
Games Croquet
CROQUET (max 20)
Every Tuesday from 4 Jul 8:30 to 12:00
Bowling Green
Teaching available on request. No partner required. Mallets supplied. Games are organised on a first come basis.
Leader: Bob Hunter 9970 7352
Bookings: Jill Barrett jillb45@hotmail.com
0456 733 336
NARRABEEN: TRAMSHED ARTS AND COMMUNITY CENTRE
1395A Pittwater Rd wheelchair access, parking nearby Venue Coordinator Marcia Andrews marciaandrews711@hotmail.com
Art Drawing and Painting
ART: PAINTING AND DRAWING IN ANY MEDIUM
Every Monday from 3 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Berry Hall
If you have not painted for years and want to create your masterpiece, this is the ideal place to do so. Artistic help is given when needed.
Leader: June Rodden june@rodden.net
Bookings: Shirley Jensen 9982 4395
Discussion Group Movies
MONDAY AT THE MOVIES - MAM
First Monday every month from 3 Jul 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: Heather Leggat ahleggat@bigpond.com
Bookings: Liz Boase lizzyboasebruce@gmail.com 0413 736 331
Current Affairs
TOPICS OF OUR TIMES (max 25)
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 39
Language French ADVANCED FRENCH
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Berry Hall
Advanced conversation in French based on a text and tape.
Leader: Wendy Clark scorpio39@bigpond.com
Bookings: Maureen Black maureengb192@gmail.com
9982 7149
NEWPORT COMMUNITY CENTRE
11-13 The Boulevard No public or school holidays wheelchair access, parking nearby Venue Coordinator Helen Howes helsim@internode.on.net
0424 464 047
Yoga YOGA AND RELAXATION
Every Monday from 17 Jul 12:30 to 2:00
Main Hall
Please book only one yoga class per week. 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 17 Jul 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
Language French
INTERMEDIATE FRENCH
Alternate Wednesdays from 19 Jul 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: Frances Buchan francesbuchan@icloud.com
Qigong
QIGONG
Every Wednesday (except first Wednesday every month) from 19 Jul 2:00 to 3:30
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. Suitable for most.
Leader: Penny Auburn penauburn@gmail.com
Bookings: Helen Howes helsim@internode.on.net
Games Table Tennis
TABLE TENNIS (max 40)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 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: TBA
Bookings: Ron Heald and Angela Gollmer ra.u3a.tt@gmail.com
Yoga
YOGA AND RELAXATION
Every Friday from 21 Jul 12:30 to 2:00
Main Hall
Please book only one yoga class per week. Every class consists of basic yoga practice, breathing and deep relaxation which will help improve joint mobility, increase muscle flexibility and bone density.
Teacher: Allyson Lowbridge
Leader: Various
Bookings: Ann Hardiman hardimanja@gmail.com
TOPICS OF INTEREST
First Wednesday and fourth Tuesday every month from 25 Jul 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
Bookings not required.
History Australia
1. The story behind the woman on the $20 note
25 Jul
Scurvy and the age of discovery. Mary Reibey - merchant, shipowner, trader, transported as a convict - became a community role model and successful businesswoman in the colony.
Presenter: John Walsh
History Australia
2. Latest Australian history book, Girt Nation
2 Aug
Get ready for Australia’s greatest necromancer prime minister, trouser-wearing women on bicycles, and amputee larrikin gang members on crutches.
Presenter: David Hunt
Environment
3. Sydney’s residential waste – making less and doing more
22 Aug
Current solutions for managing residential waste are reaching their use by date. What are personal and community priorities for tackling waste?
Presenter: Janine Ricketts
History Papua New Guinea
4. Patrols into the Stone Age
6 Sep
Serving three years in PNG during the 1960s, join patrols into the wilds of primitive lands providing many adventures including confrontation with cannibals.
Presenter: Dave Wilkins
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 40
0416 182 393
History Australia
5. Mary Wollstonecraft
24 Oct
Mary, 18th century author, who has a suburb named after her, gives a first-hand account of her significant but troubled life and those of two daughters.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Current Affairs
6. Fiji/Australia - frenemies
1 Nov
The sometimes difficult relationship between Fiji and Australia from the very early days of European settlement through to the present and very significant, new “Pacific step-up” foreign policy.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Travel
7. Petra ‘Rose-Red city half as old as time’
28 Nov
Petra is arguably the most remarkable city of the ancient world. Explore stunning temples, rock-hewn houses, tombs, and mysterious ‘high places’ of worship.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Travel
8. Going south of south!
6 Dec
More people have climbed Mt Everest than visited the Ross Sea in Antarctica. Visiting Scott and Shackleton’s Antarctica - an amazing experience and visual delight.
Presenter: Sue Martin
Drama
DRAMA ACTIVITIES
Alternate Wednesdays from 26 Jul 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: Helen Rosenkranz helenrosenkranz@gmail.com
Bookings: Claire Kennedy eurobin10@hotmail.com
NEWPORT: PITTWATER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Cnr Robertson Rd and Ocean Ave parking nearby, not public holidays
Venue Coordinator Colleen Russell s.louise.r@hotmail.com 9918 3817
Music Recorder RECORDER CONSORT
Every Wednesday from 5 Jul 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.
Leader and Bookings: Colleen Russell
s.louise.r@hotmail.com 9918 3817
NORTH CURL CURL COMMUNITY CENTRE
Cnr Griffin and Abbott Rds, not public holidays wheelchair access, parking onsite
Venue Coordinator Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au
Exercise
BALANCE ‘N’ BONES EXERCISE
Every Monday from 3 Jul 9:30 to 10:20 (Easy), 10:30 to 11:20 (Advanced)
Every Friday from 7 Jul 9:30 to 10:20 (Easy), 10:30 to 11:20 (Advanced)
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.
Games Bridge
SOCIAL BRIDGE ** NEW **
Every Monday from 3 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Basic Bridge knowledge required.
Leader: Ruth Buchanan ruth.buchanan@bigpond.com
Bookings: Sylvia Volkmer volkmers@hotmail.com
Games Cards
CARD GAMES 500 ** NEW **
Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Jul 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: Wolfgang Buschhaus wbuschhaus@gmail.com
Bookings: Julie James julie.james091@gmail.com 0402 131 785
Games GAMES AFTERNOON ** NEW **
Every Tuesday from 4 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Canasta, card games 500, mahjong, chess and possibly more games.
Bookings not required – just turn up and play.
THURSDAYS AT NORTH CURL CURL
Every Thursday from 6 Jul 10:00 to 12:30
A series of weekly presentations by people who are experts in their subject.
Leader: Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au
Bookings not required.
Music Appreciation
1. Soundtrack of our Lives
First Thursday every month from 6 Jul
Playing recordings from the popular music charts and stage musicals with a fun discussion of the events, movies, TV and books of those years.
Presenters: Various
Disasters
2. Hans Kunnen on 9/11
13 Jul
Kunnen was having his breakfast in a hotel at the World Trade Centre in New York when the unthinkable happened. He tells his interactions with the people and a story of hope.
Presenter: Hans Kunnen
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 41
Craft
3. Decluttering
20 Jul
Susan will start you on your new de-cluttering journey with simple methods, then advancing to the more intricate yet still providing a completely achievable process to follow. Bring pad and pen.
Presenter: Susan Phillips
Transport
4. Ready for the road
27 Jul
An interactive session for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. Learn up to date information on road rules plus valuable tips on safe cars and how to safely use our roads and paths.
Presenter: Robynann Dixon
Current Affairs
5. Lesser known global conflicts
10, 17 and 24 Aug (3 sessions)
We know of the conflict in Ukraine but there are conflicts going on in parts of Africa, Armenia, Yemen, Haiti etc. What are these wars all about?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History Australia
6. Exploring Australia
14 Sep
Recounts the historic exploration and mapping of The Great South Land’s coastline. After colonial settlement, daring explorers ventured into inland Australia to discover landform, flora and fauna unlike anything seen in the Northern hemisphere.
Presenter: Jill Bruce
Cinema
7. Australian classic and quirky movies
31 Aug, 21 and 28 Sep, 19 and 26 Oct
These sessions will showcase a selection of unique and often quirky Australian movies.
Presenter: Kerrie Sanders
Health
8. Why we age
12 Oct
Actions you can take to become a healthier and more vital ‘you’.
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
Theatre Drama
9. Theatre plays
9, 16, 23 and 30 Nov (4 sessions)
The Oedipus Legend and its influence in theatre
Samuel Becket: Waiting for Godot and other plays
Part 1: Angry young men and the theatre of the 50s
Part 2: Kitchen sink drama and the theatre of the 50s
Presenter: Diana Pheils
Music
10. Christmas brunch with Eve
14 Dec
Eve will present a selection of music including jazz, rock and musical theatre – plus a couple of surprises for good measure. Please bring a small plate of something savoury to share.
Presenter: Eve Lane
Games Canasta
CANASTA - BOLIVIA VERSION
Every Thursday from 6 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Take the opportunity to learn the strategies and tactics of this version of Canasta. Tuition for new players will be provided on 13 and 20 Jul.
Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com
Games Mahjong
MAHJONG - THE WESTERN GAME
Every Thursday from 6 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Learn and play Mahjong in a friendly atmosphere. Patient teaching is provided by Judith Bennett. Leader and Bookings: Sylvia Strike sylviastrike@hotmail.com
Trivia
TRIVIA FOR FUN
Every Friday from 7 Jul 1:15 to 3:15 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
Current Affairs
ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
A participative group where all are encouraged to raise issues that may be of interest to themselves and others. The topics are debated in a friendly inclusive atmosphere, so do come and enjoy the company of other members.
Leader: Jack Das
Enquiries: Carmen Exner carmen.exner@gmail.com
Bookings not required.
Book Group
BOOK CLUB
Tuesdays monthly from 18 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
18 Jul, 29 Aug, 26 Sep, 24 Oct, 21 Nov, 5 Dec
Small side room
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
CURLY QUESTIONS IN SCIENCE
Alternate Tuesdays from 25 Jul 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 speakers expert 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. Nobel rot – why do top scientists sometimes go loopy?
25 Jul
Nobel prizes are the highest recognition a scientist can earn and yet many laureates later turn to “screwball” science. Why?
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Science
2. The Science of Religion
8 Aug
Examining those theories that attempt to explain the origin and experience of religious belief as the result of purely natural processes.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 42
Science Space
3. Do we live in a multiverse?
22 Aug
Some of the more speculative aspects of physics and astronomy suggest that we are living in one of the multiple universes. This talk explores various interpretations of the multiverse idea.
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
Science
4. A brief history of gold
5 Sep
The lust for gold is woven throughout human history, permeating our culture and economy. Where does gold come from, how much is there, where do you find it and what use is it anyway?
Presenter: Dr Garry Lowder
Health
5. Understand more and break the ‘Cycle of Stress’
19 Sep
This talk will help you understand how genes, lifestyle and diet all interact and contribute to a ‘Cycle of Stress’. You will learn about many actions we can take for a happier and healthier life.
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
Medical Matters
6. A brief history of medicine and surgery
3 Oct
Our body: what it is made of, what can go wrong, and how to treat it.
Presenter: Dr John Walsh
Health
7. Safeguarding our health
17 Oct
It is near impossible to avoid illnesses. What defences do we have to safeguard and restore health?
Presenter: Sunny Cko
History Britain
8. How Britain changed the world –the Industrial Revolution
31 Oct
The transformation of Britain from a pre-industrial to an industrial society and the shift from traditional farming to a more capital-intensive economy driven by mechanized industry.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science
9. Discoveries and inventions that have shaped our world
14 Nov
A look at some of the important discoveries and inventions that have changed the world we live in and the science behind these discoveries.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science
10. The year in science
28 Nov
Exploring the cutting edge: A recap of scientific advances in both the Life Sciences and Physical Sciences in 2023.
Presenters: Drs Judy Ford and Laurie Wilson
PRIVATE HOMES
Language German
CONVERSATIONAL GERMAN (Mona Vale) (max 6)
Alternate Thursdays from 6 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Do you want to improve your German? Participants should have medium knowledge of German. Emphasis will be on conversation and some grammar. Not suitable for beginners. Leader and Bookings: Inge Kohl ingekohl2@bigpond.com 0477 346 875
Book Group
WENDY’S BOOK CLUB (Forestville) (max 10)
Alternate Thursdays from 13 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
We meet once a fortnight. 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
Music Appreciation
BACH TO THE FUTURE (Avalon) (max 20)
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul 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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 43
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.
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 of every month from 10 Jul 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@tpg.com.au (preferred)
0405 453 396
Health
1. Managing stress
10 Jul
How to minimise stress and improve health, performance and longevity.
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
History Asia
2. Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore
24 Jul
Our Indo-Pacific neighbourhood and our long history with the peoples of the Malay Peninsula and Indonesian Archipelago.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Astronomy
3. Southern auroras and northern lights
14 Aug
Causes of auroras, locations and times seen. Myths passed down through the ages.
Presenter: Vicki Moss
History Japan
4. Japan – the island country
28 Aug
Aspects of this Asian country including demographics, language, religions, constitution and the Imperial Family.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Architecture
5. Creation of Barangaroo Reserve
11 Sep
A landscape architect discusses the history of this unusual site and looks at the design and construction process.
Presenter: Maria Rigoli
Wildlife
6. Rhinos matter
25 Sep
With horns used in Asian medicine and highly priced status symbols, the rhinoceros is one of the world’s most endangered animals. Anti-poaching is technology assisted.
Presenter: Rita Shaw
Environment
7. Water we eat
9 Oct
How much water is needed to produce the food we consume? Ways to reduce our water footprint.
Presenter: Hong Yang
Future
8. A history of the future
23 Oct
For centuries, people have made predictions about life in the future. Many were stunningly accurate, others very wide of the mark.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Travel
9. Fifty years behind the lens
13 Nov
Tales from a cinematographer who has travelled to some of the most inhospitable locations on earth and has some eyeopening stories to tell.
Presenter: Ted Rayment
Music
10. Far out: music in space
27 Nov
Space has been the inspiration, setting, and even venue for some remarkable music and music stories.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
EASTWOOD CROQUET CLUB
Corner of West Parade & Wingate Avenue train station nearby
Venue Coordinator: Patricia Sykes sykesp062@gmail.com
Games Croquet
INTRODUCTION TO CROQUET
Commencing in July
The game of croquet is low impact, strategic, mentally stimulating and offers effective yet gentle exercise. All equipment supplied and lessons by a qualified coach. Dress code is casual with flat soled shoes or joggers. Bring water bottle, hat and sunglasses.
Leader and Bookings: Lorraine Ewer secretary@eastwoodcroquetclub.org.au 0417 250 696
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 44
EPPING LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE
1 Chambers Court, off Pembroke Street, beneath the Library wheelchair access, limited parking, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator: Tricia Tsang
rydenurse@yahoo.com.au 0408 288 386
INTERESTING SPEAKERS AT EPPING (max 30)
Alternate Wednesdays from 5 Jul 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
Education
1. Crime prevention
5 Jul
Information session on crime prevention, safety and other policing matters in the community.
Presenter: Chantha Mau, Multicultural Community Liaison Officer, Ryde Police Area Command
History Maritime
2. Navy and maritime stories
19 Jul
(a) The Costa Concordia sank near Italy in 2012; lives were lost and the Captain was jailed.
(b) The fight to get WW2 Ordinary Seaman, Teddy Sheean, awarded a VC.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Medical Matters
3. Medicine, surgery and our body
2 Aug
(a) The history of medicine and surgery.
(b) Our body: what is it made of, what can go wrong and how to treat it?
Presenter: John Walsh
History Ancient
4. Petra
16 Aug
“Rose-red city half as old as time”- with its stunning temples, rock-hewn houses and tombs and mysterious “high places” of worship, Petra has been revealed as the most remarkable city of the ancient world.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Genealogy
5. DNA and genealogy
30 Aug
The use of DNA in discovering genealogy.
Presenter: Coral Shand
Famous People
6. Marie Curie
13 Sep
From humble beginnings in Poland to Pantheon in Paris with two Nobel Prizes in science, Marie Curie’s is an extraordinary journey of agony and ecstasy.
Presenter: Srinivas Karkenhalli
History Australia
7. 57th Regiment of Foot in the colony of New South Wales
27 Sep
The story of an early colonial regiment and Garry’s own soldier cousin.
Presenter: Garry Smith
Future
8. Electricity supply for NSW
11 Oct
Renewables are destabilising the electricity grid. Our existing coal-fired power stations are ageing. Wholesale electricity prices are fluctuating widely. How do we transition to a new energy future?
Presenter: Robert Eales
History Australia
9. Somerton Man
25 Oct
One of Australia’s most profound ongoing mysteries. Has this celebrated case finally been cracked?
Presenter: Dick Whitaker
Anthropology
10. Discover the Polynesian mythology and legends
8 Nov
What is the origin of the Polynesians? Find out their creation stories and deities. The significance of the Hula, Haka, tattoos and forgotten taboos that are still shared in the vast region of the Pacific Ocean.
Presenter: Nitza Lowenstein
Tai Chi
TAI CHI (max 20)
Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Jul 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 nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinators: Sandra Luntz (Book Discussion Group) sandra.luntz@gmail.com 9874 3382
Sheena Caswell (Scottish Country Dancing) sheena.caswell@gmail.com 0401 847 468
Dawn Nettheim (How to Read and Write Music) dawn@bigpond.net.au 9869 0451
Dance
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING (max 16)
Every Friday from 7 Jul 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 and Bookings: Sheena Caswell sheena.caswell@gmail.com 0401 847 468
Music Appreciation
HOW TO READ AND WRITE MUSIC (Beginners)
Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
How to understand and create those black dots. Class will write and perform their own rhythm and melody work for a variety of instruments and voice in various styles.
Leader and Bookings: Dawn Nettheim dawn@bigpond.net.au 9869 0451
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 45
Book Group
BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Thursdays from 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
A reading and discussion group with an occasional classic text but with the emphasis on contemporary literature. First book for discussion is People of the River by Grace Karskens (non-fiction).
Leaders: Sandra Luntz and Barbara Boston
Bookings: Sandra Luntz sandra.luntz@gmail.com
(preferred) 9874 3382
GORDON LIBRARY
799 Pacific Highway
wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby
Venue Coordinator: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com (preferred) 0402 080 045
Philosophy
POLITICAL PHILOSOPHY
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Meeting Room 2
This course looks at ‘The Modern Political Tradition: Hobbes to Habermas’: a series of lectures from the Great Courses DVD.
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 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:30
(beginners 10:00 to 11:00, intermediate 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 nearby, bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator: Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550
History Australia
AUSTRALIAN HISTORY SEMINARS
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:15 to 12:15
Room 4
Topics for discussion will include: Radicals of the 60s, Henry Lawson, Medical Museums, Aboriginal People on Postcards, World Heritage Sites and Revisiting the Greek Milk Bar.
Leader and Bookings: Garry Smith garmal@outlook.com.au (preferred) 0418 443 147
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
Art Painting
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING (max 16)
Alternate Thursdays from 6 Jul 9:30 to 12:00
Discover the magic of watercolour painting in this friendly group, whatever your skill level. Different techniques will be given from beginners to more experienced levels. Everyone attending should bring their own materials.
Leader and Bookings: Ildy Turner ipturner@bigpond.net.au 0414 949 488
Art Painting
PAINTING IN ACRYLICS (max 15)
Alternate Thursdays from 13 Jul 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
Dance
DANCE DYNAMICS **NEW**
Every Tuesday from 18 Jul 9:30 to 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
HORNSBY: WALLAROBBA ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTRE
25 Edgeworth David Avenue
wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045
Music Recorder
MEDIUM TO ADVANCED RECORDER (max 10)
Alternate Wednesdays from 19 Jul 10:00 to 12:30
The Dining Room
The Wallarobba Players are a friendly and relaxed group whose purpose is to improve technique and enjoy making beautiful music together.
Leader and Bookings: David Rodely rodely.david@gmail.com
LINDFIELD GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE
2 Ulmarra Place, East Lindfield street parking available
Venue Coordinator: Book through the village office 9416 8466
VARIOUS SPEAKERS
Fourth Thursday of Every Month from 27 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Village Centre
Bookings: Book through the village office 9416 8466
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 46
Underwater
1. Mysteries of the deep sea
27 Jul
Humans have explored the landmass of the Earth extensively, but the sea still remains a mystery to a great extent. Let us unravel some unknowns.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
History
2. The Lost Women of Rabaul
24 Aug
This historically important true story describes the fate of 19 women, mostly Australian nurses, captured in early 1942 and taken to Japan.
Presenter: Rod Miller
Disasters
3. A fateful feast: the final repast on HMS Titanic
28 Sep
Find out what the Titanic’s passengers ate just hours before their ship met its tragic end on the evening of April 14, 1912.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Famous People
4. The life of Louis Pasteur
26 Oct
His research and legacy of the Pasteur Institute that has nurtured many brilliant scientists.
Presenter: Dr Penny Bishop
Culture Japan
5. Living and working in Japan as a foreigner
23 Nov
We consider Japanese customs, language, business culture, transport, etiquette, cuisine and fashion plus the correct way to bow and other quaint aspects of daily life in Japan.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
LINDFIELD SENIORS CENTRE
259 Pacific Highway (behind Library) wheelchair access, limited parking onsite, parking nearby, train station nearby
Venue Coordinator: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722
Book Group
MODERN AND CLASSIC NOVELS
Alternate Thursdays from 6 Jul 10:15 to 12:15
Resource Centre
Cottage, behind library, bottom of drive
A literary discussion group studying 10-11 books each semester in a friendly and informal setting. All enthusiastic readers welcome. 6 Jul: Emma by Jane Austen, 20 Jul: The Years by Annie Ernaux.
Leader and Bookings: Maurice O’Donovan odonovan.1@bigpond.com 9411 8717
Language Spanish PRE-ADVANCED SPANISH
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
Meeting room, main building
Students should be familiar with all tenses and have a good understanding of the subjunctive. Lessons encompass continual grammar revision, listening and conversation. We are reading a book of short stories, which brings up grammar points.
Leader and Bookings: Jenny Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com
Language Latin
LATIN INTERMEDIATE
Every Wednesday from 19 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Resource Centre
Cottage, behind library, bottom of drive
This continuing course is based on Parts 1-3 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 9489 7161 or 0414 489 716
Language German GERMAN ADVANCED
Every Friday from 21 Jul 9:30 to 11:00
Meeting Room, main building
Students need to have a sound knowledge of German. New members welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722
Language German GERMAN INTERMEDIATE
Every Friday from 21 Jul 11:00 to 12:30
Meeting Room, main building
Text book: em neu 2008 Deutsch als Fremdsprache -Niveaustufe B2 Hauptkurs Kursbuch Hueber Verlag ISBN 978-3-19-501695-7 Sechs Bausteine: Lesen, Sprechen, Horen, Schreiben, Grammatik, Wortschatz. Basic German grammar required.
Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722
MEADOWBANK PARK NETBALL COURT
Southern end of Adelaide Street parking onsite
Venue Coordinator: Al Reeks areeks@tpg.com.au
Games Pickleball PICKLEBALL
Every Wednesday from 19 Jul 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 tennis net and the paddles are about the size of a beach bat and typically made of graphite and the ball is light plastic.
Leader and Bookings: Al Reeks areeks@tpg.com.au
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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 47
Poetry POETRY WRITING
Alternate Thursdays from 27 Jul 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: Yiu Lam Kwan yiulam.kwan@gmail.com (preferred) 0490 045 118
Language French FRENCH PRE-INTERMEDIATE (max 15)
Every Tuesday from 18 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Fellowship Room
not school holidays
For those who have completed at least 2 years of a preliminary French course. Develop your skills in speaking, listening to, reading and writing French in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Two text-books required.
Phone Leader for details.
Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck 0447 545 070
Language French FRENCH - INTERMEDIATE (max 15)
Every Thursday from 20 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Fellowship Room not school holidays
For those who have completed at least 3 years of a preliminary French course. Develop your skills in speaking, listening to, reading and writing French in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Two text books required.
Phone Leader for details.
Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck 0447 545 070
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
Alternate Tuesdays from 18 Jul 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
Travel History
EXPERIENCING MEDIEVAL EUROPE
Alternate Wednesdays from 19 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Village Centre Games Room DVD Presentation
Go back to the golden ages of 12 of Europe’s most beautiful medieval cities. Discover the sights, sounds and smells of teeming markets, royal feasts and rituals, military engagements, religious pageantry and the many layers of daily medieval life.
Leader and Bookings: Barrie Heath foxv217@gmail.com 0450 405 526
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 Jul 10:00 to 11:30
Wesley Room
We dance to songs that we already know and love. With music, rhythm and movement, we make new neuro pathways remembering the steps while exercising our body and mind, improving memory and cardiac fitness; and with the added bonus of friendship and laughter.
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
Music Ukulele
UKULELE FOR FUN
Every Wednesday from 5 Jul 9:00 to 12:00
Wesley Room
Looking for a new interest? Come and have a lot of fun with a friendly group. Beginners welcome and no experience necessary. We have start up ukuleles for you 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 Jul 10:00 to 11:30
Finlay Room
We dance to songs that we already know and love. With music, rhythm and movement, we make new neuro pathways remembering the steps while exercising our body and mind, improving memory and cardiac fitness, and 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 Jul (plus 15 Dec) 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
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 48
Exercise
GENTLE EXERCISE SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE **NEW**
Every Monday from 17 Jul 1:30 to 2:30 (6 sessions)
Wesley Room
Do not let arthritis, aches and pains stop you from exercising. You have the choice to remain seated or standing for the one hour duration. Easy aerobics, strength training with flexibility.
Leader and Bookings: Sunny Ko sunnycko@hotmail.com
Games
MAH-JONG FOR BEGINNERS
Every Tuesday from 18 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Finlay Room
Come and learn the ancient tile-based game of Mah-jong. We will be teaching the Western Game. It’s great exercise for your brain and lots of fun at the same time. Limited places available.
Leader: Marilyn Pryor
Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com
0409 448 542
Discussion Group Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 18)
Alternate Thursdays from 20 Jul 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 Jul 2:00 to 3:30
Clubhouse not public holidays
A variety of speakers lecture on their favourite subjects
Leader: Wendy Bull thelandingsvilla@gmail.com 9488 5268
Bookings: no bookings required
History
1. A history of the tobacco industry
10 Jul
The discovery of tobacco by Columbus in the New World, in the American colonies and the arrival of tobacco smoking in England and the continent. Health concerns, denial and eventual acceptance of medical and scientific evidence.
Presenter: Don Wines
Nutrition
2. All about herbs and spices
24 Jul
“Herbie” is one of Australia’s foremost culinary specialists. He has a passion for herbs and spices and is author of the The Spice and Herb Bible.
Presenter: Ian (Herbie) Hemphill
Famous People
3. Samuel Pepys (Poet) and his women
14 Aug
In his famous diaries (1660-1669) Samuel Pepys recorded the daily details of his rags to riches life – a rather complicated man interested in everything and had an active and somewhat sordid marital sexual life.
Presenter: Roger Humphreys
History
4. The Paston Letters and life in 15th century England
28 Aug
The Paston Letters are a unique collection of family correspondence from the early 1400s to around 1520, covering the everyday lives of minor aristocracy during a time of great change, of instability and civil war.
Presenter: Peter Headley
History
5. Radicals: remembering the sixties
11 Sep
The sixties were changing years where many experienced the cultural scene, music, art and theatre – especially political events.
Presenter: Hon. Dr Meredith Bergmann AM
Medical Matters
6. Putting alternative medicine to the test
25 Sep
How and why modern science-based medicines are used in clinical trials to determine whether medical therapies actually work and exploring how several examples of alternative medicine fare when subjected to rigorous testing.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Maritime
7. The Ken Warby story
9 Oct
In 1978, Ken Warby in “The Spirit of Australia” drove his speed boat to 511.11 kmh (317.68 mph) and set a world water speed record – his boat made from plywood in his backyard powered by a surplus jet engine he bought for $65 from the RAAF.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
History
8.The early discovery of North America
23 Oct
St. Brendan’s voyage to North America (530AD) and the Viking exploration and settlement in Newfoundland (1000AD) were hundreds of years earlier than Columbus’ discovery of the New World.
Presenter: Peter Headley
History Australia
9. The fatal fire at the Adams Hotel
13 Nov
In 1922 fire broke out at the Adams Hotel, near the famous Gowings building, and 3 firemen were catapulted to the ground. We explore the fire, the subsequent inquest and immense public reaction to the tragedy.
Presenter: Graham Sims
Wildlife
10. Elephants and me: a love affair
27 Nov
Elephants embody the comradeship, peacefulness, societal love and support which we humans talk about but all too rarely put into practice – a beautiful story.
Presenter: Graham Sims
TURRAMURRA UNITING CHURCH
Turramurra Avenue wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator: Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com 0422 522 550 (preferred)
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 49
Language German
PRE-INTERMEDIATE GERMAN
Every Monday from 17 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Garden room
not school holidays, not after 4 Sep until 30 Oct 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
Games
FUN PROBLEM SOLVING TO KEEP OUR MINDS ACTIVE
Alternate Tuesdays from 18 Jul 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 pentominos, space problems, number puzzles, word and logic problems.
You will need pencils, paper, scissors and eraser.
Leader and Bookings: Sandra Sadler spsadler@dodo.com.au 9484 5513
History
HISTORY – FACTS AND FUN
Alternate Thursdays from 20 Jul 9:30 to 11:30
Garden Room
We cover many countries and timelines in history and include some interesting and amusing diversions. Questions and discussions always welcome.
Leader: Phil Pryor
Bookings: Margaret Marshall shalldo15@gmail.com
0418 253 949
Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Tuesdays from 25 Jul 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: Jan Martin 9456 7774
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 Jul 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 of every month from Jul 19
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
Book Group
LITERARY MASTERPIECES (St Ives) (max 8)
First Friday of every month from 7 Jul 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: Yasunari Kawabata – Snow Country; Book 2: Abdulrazak Gurnah – Paradise
Leader and Bookings: Kaye Horley rkhorley@gmail.com 0412 750 487
Philosophy PHILOSOPHY (Pymble)
Alternate Tuesdays from 11 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
train station nearby, bus stop nearby, parking nearby We discuss philosophical issues, especially those which are valid today. Members of the group choose topics. There are no formal lectures, but lots of discussion.
Leader and Bookings: Margot Taverne margottaverne@gmail.com 9449 2923
Creative Writing A WAY WITH WORDS (Pymble)
Alternate Thursdays from 13 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
train station nearby, bus stop nearby, parking nearby Join our writing group in a motivating and supporting environment. Knowledgeable feedback is given to help you develop your writing skills.
Leader: Margaret Thomason 9488 8960
Bookings: Margot Taverne margottaverne@gmail.com 9449 2923
Poetry WITH RHYME AND REASON (Eastwood) (max 10)
Alternate Thursdays from 20 Jul 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: Ron Wilkins ronwtwilkins@hotmail.com 9876 1948
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 50
ZOOM COURSES
Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12) **NEW**
Presented by City and Inner West
Every Monday from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 and/or every second Thursday from 6 Jul 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
OUR WORDS
Presented by Greater Western Region
Alternate Mondays from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Interested in the origin of language? Words and sayings can be fun. Bring a word and we’ll use it in an ‘on-the-spot’ writing task. Hone your writing skills with a friendly, likeminded group and let your talent emerge. Will occasionally meet in a local coffee shop.
Leader and Bookings: Ann Orel annorel@hotmail.com
9638 2547
Current Affairs
YOU NEED NOT AGREE
Presented by Northern Beaches Region
Every Monday from 3 Jul 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 9997 6078
Crosswords
MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Every second Monday from 3 Jul 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 4225 0270 rmbjs@iinet.net.au (preferred)
Language Spanish
SPANISH CONVERSATION
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Tuesdays from 4 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
Most of the time we discuss current affairs, cultural events or a subject previously decided upon.
Leader: Maria Criado
Bookings: Jenny Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com 9966 8510
Language Italian INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN (max 20)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Every Friday from 7 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
We are 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 0424 738 824 pia.ottavian@yahoo.com.au
Language Russian
RUSSIAN ADVANCED CONVERSATION
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Mondays from 10 Jul 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 welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Dr Richard Brettell
richardbrettell@hotmail.com 0455 279 866
Language Spanish
SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS (max 12)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Every Tuesday from 11 Jul 10:30 to 11:30
This Course is for those new to Spanish or those planning to travel to a Spanish speaking country. We will focus on everyday spoken Spanish following a simple pattern that will have you speaking Spanish from the first lesson.
Leader and Bookings: Vivian McGuire
vmcguire@tpg.com.au (preferred) 0418 259 102
Cinema Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 9)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Alternate Wednesdays from 12 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Join a fun, friendly and stimulating online discussion about two films at every meeting. Two films per fortnight are chosen by the group at each Zoom session. One film screening on the free streaming service, SBS on Demand. The second film screening on the paid streaming service, Netflix. The result is an invigorating, insightful and enjoyable discussion from the comfort of your own home.
Leader and Bookings: Ross Giannone 0409 382 384
Discussion Group
TALKING POINTS ON ZOOM
Presented by Harbourside North Region
Alternate Thursdays from 13 Jul 10:00 to 11:30
Topics discussed include issues in the news and other matters of the times. Everyone is encouraged to participate and new members are most welcome. The talking points for each session are sent to participants 3 days before the meeting.
Leaders: Rosemarie Einstein and Ric Einstein
Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org OR Rosemarie Einstein einstein@starmer.net.au
MUSIC WE GREW UP WITH
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Thursdays from 13 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
The fabulous music of the 1960s. The first 8 sessions omit Beatles tracks. The next 3 sessions contain only Beatles music and documentaries. In this way we show just how different the Beatles were. Music is presented mainly in period audio/visual.
Leader and Bookings: Howard Ferrer howferr@gmail.com
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 51
ZOOM COURSES
Music
1. 1960 to 1963
13 Jul
Music
2. 1964 and 1965 – non invasion
27 Jul
Music
3. 1964 and 1965 – the invasion
10 Aug
Music
4. 1960s - solo ladies
24 Aug
Music
5. 1966 and 1967
7 Sep
Music
6. 1967 and 1968
21 Sep
Music
7. 1968 and 1969 – part 1
5 Oct
Music
8. 1968 and 1969 – part 2
19 Oct
Music
9. 1969 and Beatles – 1
2 Nov
Music
10. Beatles – 2
16 Nov
Music
11. Beatles – 3
30 Nov
Music
12. Aussie 1960s
14 Dec
Language French
FRENCH – INTERMEDIATE (max 12)
Presented by Upper North Region
Every Wednesday from 19 Jul 9:30 to 11:30
This course is for those who have completed at least 4 years of French courses, and with a good basic knowledge of French grammar. It aims to develop skills in understanding spoken and written French, and in writing and speaking French.
Leader and Bookings: Ethleen Low ethlow@bigpond.net.au
(preferred) 0418 161 706
THURSDAYS ON ZOOM
Presented by Harbourside North Region
Alternate Thursdays from 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org OR Rosemarie Einstein
einstein@starmer.net.au
History Australia
1. Arthur Phillip
20 Jul
From ship’s boy to Admiral, farmer, global adventurer, spy and our first Governor. His mysterious death still engages and intrigues the historians.
Presenter: Geoff Davidson
History Famous People
2. Captain Alfred Dreyfus
3 Aug
Examines the Army’s ruthless attempts to block Col Piquart’s steps to prove Dreyfus’ innocence. The social and historical situation that drove the Army and its supporters. Are there modern parallels?
Presenter: Terry Farrell
Poetry Famous People
3. Banjo Patterson
17 Aug
Not just a poet. Lawyer, author, soldier, journalist and, best of all, Australia’s much loved and quoted poet.
Presenter: Geoff Davidson
Economics Current Affairs
4. Big or small government?
31 Aug, 14 Sep
How 18th Century English governments came to recognise the impact of taxation on the economy. Adam Smith’s writings, the development of the welfare state and Thatcher and Reagan’s rejection of it. Recent taxation and welfare policies of Australian governments.
Presenter: Terry Farrell
Current Affairs
5. Update on Russia and Ukraine, and China’s role.
28 Sep, 12 Oct
The war and its consequences will be in the headlines throughout 2023. This is an attempt to make sense of the tragedy.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History Agriculture
6. The Australian wine industry: echoes from the past
26 Oct
An introduction to the pioneers of the Australian wine industry and their interesting stories.
Presenter: Rick Walter
Agriculture
7. The Australian wine industry: the present
9 Nov
A tour through grape varieties, wine styles and outstanding wine regions.
Presenter: Rick Walter
History Maritime
8. Australia’s first nuclear submarine
23 Nov
A gripping narrative about the first nuclear submarine to visit Australia. It might have been obsolete soon after launching, but it featured in Cold War games of Russian roulette.
Presenter: Rick Walter
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 52
ZOOM COURSES
Photography CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
Presented by Northern Beaches Region
Alternate Fridays from 14 Jul 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 tutorialbased sessions. Places are limited; previous participants are welcome to re-join.
Leaders: Laurie Wilson and Ian Thompson
Bookings: Laurie Wilson wlaurie118@gmail.com (preferred) 9938 1454
Language Mandarin
MANDARIN (max 30)
Presented by Greater Western Region
Every Monday from 17 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This continuing course is intended for the Third Age people who want to learn Mandarin by means of learning Chinese characters and sentences using alphabetic transliteration. Your level will determine class and alternate Monday session access.
Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail (preferred) 0408 544 925
Language French
FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 13)
Presented by Endeavour Region
Every Monday from 17 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Small group refreshing their grammar, vocabulary, listening and pronunciation skills. We will use some downloaded material.
Leader and Bookings: Jill Kendrigan drigan@idx.com.au 0412 389 601
Language French
FRENCH CONVERSATION – Pre-Intermediate Level (max 8)
Presented by Endeavour Region
Every Monday from 17 Jul 5:00 to 6:00
Participants have the opportunity to practise French Conversation/Speaking skills, develop fluency, refine pronunciation, revise grammar points. Some knowledge of French language and grammar essential. Sessions conducted via zoom platform. Reference notes are emailed for use in class. Printer access advisable.
Leader and Bookings: Jean Harrow jeanharrow1@gmail.com (enquiries: text your name + French) to 0400 207 271
Language Mandarin
MANDARIN PIES (PRACTICE IN EVERYDAY SPEAKING CHINESE)
Presented by Greater Western Region
Every Friday from 21 Jul 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 (preferred) 0408 544 925
Travel TRAVEL AND HISTORY TOGETHER
Presented by Greater Western Region
Every fourth Tuesday from 25 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
As we’re not travelling as much as we used to, discover some of the history of places that have been visited. Hear the travel stories and see the photos! See the GW website for dates and topics of individual presentations. Leader and Bookings: Karen Paterson karenpaterson@optusnet.com.au
Social Media
PODCAST MORNING TEA CLUB
Presented by City and Inner West Region
First and third Tuesdays from 1 Aug 10:00 to 11:30 This group listens and discusses each podcast. Leader and Bookings: Gavin Crawford vpeducation.gavin.u3a@gmail.com
Culture
1. Community
1 Aug
This podcast playlist explores the idea of community and how to go about creating more community in your own life.
Psychology
2. Dreams
15 Aug
Why do we have them? Can we harness their power? The science and psychology behind dreams.
Sociology
3. Advice
5 Sep
Advice is how we learn from the mistakes and successes of others, and how we try to help others navigate around the potholes we weren’t lucky enough to miss.
Health
4. Healing
19 Sep
Healing can come in many forms – a band-aid, a pill, a meditation, and even a placebo.
Sociology
5. Cults
3 Oct
This podcast playlist highlights a range of cults from the perspectives of those who were in them.
Health
6. Well-being
17 Oct
This podcast playlist explores flourishing, stoicism, how we can approach well-being without being misguided by the wellness industry’s nefarious marketing tactics.
Health
7. Aging
7 Nov
Like it or not, we’re all getting older. Some people decide to lean into aging, while others fight it with all they’ve got.
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 53
ZOOM COURSES
Internet
8. Scams
21 Nov
People are captivated by stories about scams because they often involve elements of deception, betrayal, and intrigue, which can be very compelling.
Crosswords
CRACKING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 16)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22 Aug (4 sessions) 2:00 to 4:00
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 rmbjs@iinet.net.au (preferred) 4225 0270
MORE GREAT MOMENTS IN SCIENCE
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Wednesdays from 2 Aug 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
Human Body
1. The brain
2 Aug
Strategies for brain health.
Presenter: Dr Christine Lopacinski
History War
2. Spymasters and code breakers of WW2
16 Aug
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Health
3. Stress
30 Aug
How can we address this problem? Strategies for minimising stress and improving health.
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
Nature
4. Poisonous stings – dangerous animals in the kingdom
13 Sep
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Astronomy
5. Galaxies and the expanding universe – an overview
27 Sep
Presenter: Peter Kinna
Nature
6. Medical entomology – mosquitoes; a deadly animal
11 Oct
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Art
7. Mathematics in art
25 Oct
How nature and art involve the laws of mathematics.
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
Astronomy
8. The sounds of the deep space
8 Nov
Presenter: Richard de Grijs
Science
9. The year in science
22 Nov
A summary of key events and achievements.
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
PEOPLE AND EVENTS THAT CHANGED THE WORLD
(max 300)
Presented by Greater Western Region
Alternate Thursdays from 3 Aug 2:00 to 4:00
A look at personalities and events with significant influence on the social/economic development of humanity. Our focus is psychological. We will consider people and events and how they affected peoples’ lives. Leader and Bookings: Rex Broadbent rexpat29@gmail.com 0433 000 556
Law
1. Introduction to Intellectual Property Law (Patents, trademarks copyright)
3 Aug
To create the environment to make it worth humans spending their time and resources to create the things and events to improve the world.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science
2. Who invented what when?
17 & 31 Aug
Examine many items we take for granted that were invented and investigate the history and science behind these everyday objects of contemporary life.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science Physics
3. End of Certainty; the decade that re-invented physics
14 Sep
1905 to 1915 revolutionised our thinking about time, space and the structure of matter. We focus on Einstein, Bohr and Rutherford.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
4.
28 Sep
No presentation
History Australia
5. 3 Prime Ministers
12 Oct
Australian Prime Ministers – Curtin, McMahon and Keating. Focusses on the times in which they governed and their legacies.
Presenter: Brian Bailey
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 54
ZOOM COURSES
Medical Matters History
6. Unlocking the history of some early epidemics and pandemics
26 Oct
Including Bubonic Plague, Black Death, the Great Plague of London, Smallpox, Cholera, Leprosy and others.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Nature
7. Great river systems on our planet
9 Nov
Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilisations they pass through
Presenter: Das (Punchi) Dassanayake
Photography
8. The history of photography – from pin holes to pixels
23 Nov
Milestones dating back to the ancient Greeks, that have contributed to the development of photography as we know today
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Famous People
9. Charles Lindbergh
7 Dec
Extraordinary aviation skills, and effective in developing airline travel which is so ubiquitous today
Presenter: Rex Broadbent
Language Spanish INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
Presented by Northern Beaches Region
Every Monday from 7 Aug 2:00 to 4:00
Ongoing course. Aims at developing confidence in Spanish speaking skills, whilst revising and expanding grammar and vocabulary. For those with language skills equivalent to two years of Spanish. Newcomers, please contact course leader for expected previous knowledge.
Leader and Bookings: Alexis Tabensky alexistabensky7@gmail.com 0424 983 618
Travel
TRAVELLERS ON ZOOM (max 25)
Presented by Endeavour Region
Second Thursday each month from 10 Aug 2:00 to 4:00 (excluding school holidays)
The group is enjoyed by people who enjoy travel. Members can share their travel experiences by sharing their stories and photographs. Members can choose not to present but enjoy being in the audience and reminisce or dream.
Leaders: Kate Churcher kchurcher2@hotmail.com
0433 140 900 and Greg Organ cjgorgan@gmail.com 0481 835 009
Bookings: Kate Churcher kchurcher2@hotmail.com 0433 140 900
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 55
COURSE INDEX
Advertising 52
Agriculture 52
Anthropology 45
Archaeology 21, 35
Architecture 44
Art 13, 17, 21, 26, 36, 37, 54
Appreciation 20, 29, 31, 32
Drawing 14,20
Drawing and Painting 39
Galleries 13
History 17, 26, 27
Painting 38, 40,46
Science 36
Urban Sketching 21
Astronomy 13,44,54
B
History 29
Book Group 14, 15, 16, 18, 21, 22, 24, 32, 37, 42, 43, 46, 47, 50
C
Calligraphy 24
Cinema 12, 19, 38, 42, 48
Cinema Movies 14, 15, 25, 51
Computers 32
Legal 24
Craft 24, 37, 42
Creative Writing 21, 25, 48, 50
Crime 17
Crosswords 51, 54
Culture 35,53
Japan 47
Current Affairs 11, 17, 26, 27, 28, 30, 31, 33, 34, 36, 29, 41, 42, 50, 51, 52
Economics 33
International Relations 35
I
Health 13, 15, 18, 31, 42, 43, 44, 53, 54
Current affairs 33
Medical Matters 31
Historic Buildings Australia 36
History 17, 18, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 47, 49, 50
Africa 14
Agriculture 52
Ancient 13, 19, 45
Asia 44
Australia 11, 15, 24, 29, 30, 31, 32, 34, 35, 36, 37, 40, 41, 42, 45, 46, 49, 52, 54
Britain 43
China 24
Culture 22
Europe 24, 28
Famous People 34, 52
Gardens 22
Genealogy 23
Ireland 37
Japan 44
Literature 27
Maritime 45, 52
Medical Matters 28
History of Science and Technology 17
Papua New Guinea 40
Theatre 32
War 27,54
World 25
Human Body 54
Indigenous Australians 31 Internet 54
Inventions 38
L
Language 24, 51
D
Dance 20, 25, 45, 46, 48
Desktop Flying 25
Disasters 41, 47
Discussion Group 12, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 29, 51
Book Group 35
Current Affairs 23, 35, 49
Movies 18, 39
Drama 41
E Economics 13, 36
Economics Current Affairs 52
Investment 12
Sociology 33
Education 45
Environment 40, 44
Ethics 13, 28
Events 13
Exercise 41, 49
F
Famous People 12, 13, 45, 47, 49, 55
Literature 13
Music 12
Science 13
Future 44, 45
G Games 16, 19, 20, 23, 41 , 49, 50
Bowls 20, 34, 37
Bridge 11, 41
Canasta Mah Jong 25
Cards 41
Croquet 16, 39,44
Mahjong 42
Pétanque 16
Pickleball 47
Genealogy 15 19, 24, 45
Geography 35
Geology 15
O
Outdoor Outings 25
Bushwalking 22
Eating Out 16, 22, 36
Eating Out **NEW** 16
Galleries 16
Sketching 22
Walking 50
P
Painting Photography 14
Philosophy 14, 39, 46, 50
Photography 53, 55
Poetry 32, 50
Famous People 52
Politics 33
Power 34
Presentations 20
Psychology 17, 53
Q
Qigong 11, 40 Tai Chi 11
R
Relaxation Exercise 11
Religion 17
S Science 26, 28, 30, 31, 32, 33, 35, 36, 42, 43, 54
Astronomy 13, 29
History 30
Inventions 13
Medical Matters 34
Physics 24, 54
Space 43
Social Media 36, 53
Sociology 53
ESL 11
French
Guitar 38
History 26
Opera 24, 30
Performance 38
Recorder 27, 41, 46
Singing 39
Ukulele 14, 38, 48
N
Nature 15, 28, 30, 54, 55
Nutrition 31, 49
32, 41, 43, 45
T
Tai Chi 15, 23, 45, 46
Technology 17, 26, 30
Theatre Drama 42
Transport 13, 28, 35, 42
Travel 19, 27, 28, 30, 31, 32, 38, 41, 44, 53, 55
Culture 26, 34
History 48
Trivia 42
U
Underwater 47
W
Wildlife 44, 49
Writing 12, 34
Y
Yoga 40
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 56
A
H
Italian
Japanese 11, 14 Latin 39, 47 Literature 31 Mandarin 53 Russian 51 Spanish 47, 51, 55 Law 17, 54 Legal 35, 36 Literature 12, 14, 17, 20, 33, 36 Australia 30 British 30, 34 M Maritime 49 Medical Matters 24, 31, 42, 43, 45, 49 Health
History 27, 55 Movies
Music
27, 28, 29, 30, 35, 42,
52 Appreciation 18, 23, 31,
12, 15, 16, 18, 19, 38, 39, 40, 48, 52, 53 German 29, 47, 50
19, 51
28
25
20,
44,
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 57
A Ashfield Cardinal Freeman Retirement Village 11 Club Ashfield 11 Avalon Recreation Centre 37 B Balgowlah Club Totem 37 Belrose Bowling Club 37 Berowra Community Centre 44 Blacktown Library 23 Westpoint Shopping Centre 23 Botany Bay Family History Society 19 Burwood Club Burwood 11 RSL 11 Woodstock Community Centre 12 C Caringbah South Botany Bay Family History Society 19 Castle Cove The Residences 26 Castle Hill Warrina Village (Anglicare Retirement Village) 23 Chatswood Dougherty Community Centre 27 City Sydney U3a Office 12 Clovelly Senior Citizen Centre 18 Cronulla Community Hall 19 School Of Arts 19 E Eastwood Croquet Club 44 Epping Leisure And Learning Centre 45 Uniting Church 45 F Forestville RSL Club 37 Frenchs Forest Lionel Watts Community Centre 37 The Dutch Club 38 G Glebe Library 14 The Old Town Hall 14 Toxteth Hotel 14 Gordon Library 46 Greenwich The Baytree Retirement Resort 29 Gymea Community Centre 20 Miranda Bowling & Sports Club 20 Tradies 21 H Hornsby Central Library 46 Leisure And Learning Centre 46 Wallarobba Arts And Cultural Centre 46 Hunters Hill C A Fairland Hall 31 Hurstville Uniting Colin Mcfadyen Retirement 21 L Lane Cove Living and Learning Centre 32 Leichhardt Library 14 Lindfield Lindfield Gardens Retirement Village 46 Senior Centre 47 M Marayong Community Centre 23 Marrickville Library 15 Mcmahons Point Community Centre 32 Meadowbank Meadowbank Park Netball Court 47 Miranda Community Centre 21 Mona Vale Memorial Hall 38 Mosman Art Gallery 32 Bowling Club 34 Mosman Square Seniors Centre 35 The Garrison 34 The Manors Of Mosman Retirement Village 35 The Melody Room 33 N Narrabeen Tramshed Arts and Community Centre 39 Narrabeen North Narrabeen Baptist Church 38 Narrabeen RSL Club 39 Newport Community Centre 40 Pittwater Presbyterian Church 41 North Curl Curl Community Centre 41 Northmead NBC Sports Club 23 O Oatley Library 21 P Paddington EJ Ward Centre 18 Parramatta Phive 23 Pennant Hills Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai Child and Family Health Centre 47 R Revesby Community Hall 15 Workers Club 15 Rozelle Hannaford Centre 15 S South Hurstville RSL 21 South Turramurra St Andrew’s Uniting Church 48 St Ives Fernbank Retirement Village 48 Uniting Church 48 Strathfield Croquet Club 16 Sutherland Club On East 21 Shire Leisure Centre 22 T Toongabbie St Anthony’s Church Hall 25 Turramurra Uniting Church 49 Turramurra North The Landings 49 W Wahroonga The Woniora 50 Willoughby Hyegrove Display Suite 36 Woollahra Centre Woollahra 17
SUBURBS INDEX
Sydney u3a Course Book July - December 2023 58 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 27 28 29 30 31 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 30 31 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 1 2 3 4 1 2 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31 26 27 28 29 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 28 29 30 31 31 Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa Su 1 2 3 1 1 2 3 4 5 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 27 28 29 30 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 30 31 week A blue font week B black font Public holidays red font School holidays green shading May June July August September October November December Calendar 2023 Australia January February March April
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.