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 Parramatta, Hills District, Cumberland, Blacktown
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, to 121 Creative for the design & layout and to Kwik Kopy Circular Quay for the printing.
COURSE LISTING ORDER
Events are listed first, followed by courses provided by each region. Within a region venues are listed in alphabetical order, and courses for each venue are in start date order. Then all Zoom courses are listed in start date order.
BOOKING A COURSE
The starting point to book a course is included in each course listing. It will either be a person to contact, or reference to a website, where you can book online. In order to book and attend a course, please note the following:
• Contact the person whose name/email/phone number is given as the booking secretary, OR, go to the website indicated in the listing
• If there is a problem with this - contact the venue or course coordinator
• Provide your name, membership number (see note below) and phone number, if booking by email or phone
• Use the MyU3A booking facility - where indicated - membership number and password are required
• Some courses have a maximum number of attendees, which will be indicated in brackets after the course or event; e.g. (max 10). If you are unable to attend a course after you have booked, please notify the booking secretary, or cancel online - as there can be waiting lists
• Wear your membership badge at all times for face to face meetings.
Note:
If you are not a member, you may book a course, and then attend up to two sessions, 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 Ros Tasker
vped.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
VP Public Relations Michael Parkinson vppr.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
Treasurer Patrick McGovern sydu3a.treasurer@gmail.com
Secretary Lynda Cronshaw secretary@sydneyu3a.org
Admin Manager TBA officemgr.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
REGIONAL PRESIDENTS
City and Inner West
Vicki Moss vickimossy@gmail.com
Eastern David Rosenwax drosenwax@bigpond.com
Endeavour Southern Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com
Greater Western Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net
Harbourside North Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com
Northern Beaches Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com
Upper North Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Welcome again to the Sydney u3a second semester, with lots of interesting courses, talks, walks ahead! I would like to thank all the volunteers who work on the course book preparation, and the office volunteers who ensure the book is either mailed by post, or available online. It’s a large task but with all hands on deck it’s always appreciated.
The first semester is always the most busy as President, and one of the most enjoyable tasks is attending regional functions and AGMs. I’m happy to report that this year’s AGM was well attended, not surprisingly with Nick Cowdery as our guest speaker.
Unfortunately our Vice President Education, Pat Manser, has had to stand down from the role. This means we’ll again be on the hunt for a replacement, so if you would like to find out more about this role please let me know. I promise we’re a very happy team which makes it a most enjoyable role.
I’ll wind up by reminding members that we need to keep our numbers up and the best way of doing this is by word of mouth - so keep on talking about Sydney u3a!
Jennifer Waldron, President, Sydney u3a
TOUR OF GARDEN ISLAND NAVAL BASE (max 20)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region
Meet at Garden Island Main Gate Cowper Wharf Roadway Potts Point at 9:30
Will be held on Thursday 5 September at 9:30
In 1788 the Captain of HMS Sirius ordered men to plant onions and corn on an island to feed the crew. The men planted the garden and carved their initials and the year into nearby rocks. Today Garden Island is 5 times the original size and has been joined to the mainland in the second biggest engineering feat in Australia. It has historic buildings dating from the late 1800s, a dry dock, historic trees and probably the earliest tennis courts in Australia. It is a working naval base and is full of interesting relics. We’ll be issued with passes before taking a Defence bus to go and view a 15- minute introductory video. After that we’ll go on a walking tour (1 hour and 45 minutes), and then visit the shop run by the Naval Historical Society.
Requirements: hat, sensible footwear, sunglasses and bottled water. Participants need to be reasonably fit, as there are stairs and uneven surfaces unsuitable for anyone with mobility issues.
Cost: $30 per person (no refunds), payable in advance by eftpos. Payment details disclosed when booking. Bus 311 from QVB to Potts Point, alight at meeting point at 9.30 Cowper Wharf Roadway, opposite Wyld Street.
Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp Monday 12 August. First come, first served, with priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
GUIDED VISIT TO SYLVAN GROVE NATIVE GARDEN (max 12)
Organised by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region
5 Sylvan Grove, Picnic Point.
Will be held on Tuesday 24 September from 9:45
Sylvan Grove Native Garden at Picnic Point is maintained by Canterbury–Bankstown Council to showcase Australian native plants to the community. It has over 1,500 species of native plants which have been lovingly gathered and nurtured from all over Australia. Situated in a pleasant and natural bushland setting, the Garden is a unique haven of natural bushland displayed along a winding bush track through rainforest areas and sunny spots. Along the way we can expect to see ferns orchids and other plants like prostantheras and plectranthus that flower well in shade.
Requirements: water, reasonable fitness, sturdy shoes, weather protection. Uneven terrain, not suitable for anyone with mobility Issues.
Train 9.45 from Central Platform 23 Bus 923 from Revesby bus interchange to stop on corner of Henry Lawson Drive and Sylvan Grove; 1km walk to venue. Limited street parking.
Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 9 September. First come, first served, with priority given to participants who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
PICNIC
ON THE HAWKESBURY (max 10)
Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region
Will be held on: Thursday 3 October from 8:45
Enjoy a waterside walk through one of the most photogenic settings in NSW. Apart from the beauty of the banks, beaches and sandstone landforms, we’ll also view the spot where Australia’s Constitution was drafted. BYO picnic lunch to enjoy. This is a leisurely outing, dictated by the eccentric public transport timetables. Total walking distance: 7km. Cameras recommended. Swim at your own risk.
Requirements: reasonable level of fitness, sturdy walking shoes, weather protection, water. Train 8.45 from Platform 7, Central, CCN Line. Arrive Hawkesbury River 9.48, then ferry to Little Wobby. Return by train 2.27, arriving Central 3.29.
Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 16 September. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
TRAINS, TUNNELS AND TOMBSTONES:
LOCAL HISTORY TOUR OF CENTRAL STATION (max 10)
Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region
Meet at Henry Deane Plaza 2 Lee St Railway Square at 9:30
Will be held on: Tuesday 15 October from 9:30
Central Station is one of Sydney’s grandest public buildings. Its construction was a huge undertaking, requiring the relocation of several cemeteries and the demolition of a large number of historic buildings. Come and explore the many stories associated with this site.
Requirements: reasonable fitness, weather protection, comfortable shoes.
Bookings essential and only from 9am Monday sharp on Monday 30 September. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
HOPS, HOVELS AND HOMICIDE: CHIPPENDALE LOCAL HISTORY
Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region
WALK (max 15)
Meet at Henry Deane Plaza 2 Lee St Railway Square at 9:30
Will be held on: Tuesday 29 October from 9:30
In its early days Chippendale was hardly the suburb of choice. The housing was cramped, the vermin entrenched, and the air foul with noisome fumes. As Robert Cooper’s 1840s distillery was faltering, the Tooth family’s brewery next door was flourishing, and in the nearby swamp ‘Pig Mary’ fossicked around for offal discarded by the slaughterhouses. But fortunes have changed, and today Chippendale has morphed into a popular residential precinct, with fertile soil and some of Sydney’s most beautiful buildings. Come and have a closer look at this long neglected industrial ugly duckling of inner Sydney.
Requirements: reasonable fitness, water bottle, weather protection, walking shoes.
Bookings essential and only from 9am sharp on Monday 14 October. First come, first served, but priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
EVENTS
HOW THE COURTS WORK (max 10)
Led by Beatrice Scheepers City and Inner West Region
To the uninitiated, a court can be a fascinating, often intimidating place to experience. These two visits will explain what happens in court: who’s who at the bar table, why the fancy dress, what’s with all the formality? Each walk will also explore the heritage architecture and local history of the area.
Part 1 will be held on: Friday 8 November Meeting place and further details disclosed when booking confirmed.
We’ll sit in on trials, sentence proceedings and bail applications listed before the inferior courts (civil and criminal) sitting at Brickfield Hill: Central Local Court, the John Maddison Tower and the Downing Centre. Finish 12.45. Affordable Korean lunch afterwards.
Part 2 will be held on: Friday 15 November Meeting place and further details disclosed when booking confirmed.
We’ll spend some time at Queen’s Square to see how the superior courts operate: the Supreme Court, the Federal Court and the High Court, which hopefully will be sitting 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, strictly between 9am Monday 21 October and 5pm Wednesday 23 October. Places determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 25 October. Priority given to members who provide telephone number, membership number and expiry date when booking.
Email bookings only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004 (enquiries only)
LITERARY FESTIVAL 2025 (max 80)
Organised by Greater West Region 12 to 14 February 2025 Carrington Hotel Katoomba Whodunit! Crime Fiction Around the World
If you love a good crime story but you also want to travel the world, we have great news! The 18th Literary Festival in the historic Carrington Hotel in Katoomba 12 – 14 February 2025 is on international crime stories. Be ready for suspense, dark twists, complex international dynamics and even some humour as our speakers tease you with crime stories from across our world. Pick up your International Crime Passport at the Registration Desk on Wednesday 12 February. Join us for three days of fun and fabulous meals including wine, pe-dinner party on Thursday evening, and some intriguing insights into the writing of crime fiction.
Bookings open: 1 August 2024
Go to Sydney u3a webpage Events and click on the booking form for the 18th Literary Festival or contact Delegate Coordinator Sue on gwr1u3a@gmail.com
• Single with ensuite: $820
• Double or twin with ensuite: $1,230
• Traditional single with private external bathroom: $720
• Traditional double or twin with private external bathroom: $1,100
EVENTS
2025 HOLIDAY: ORANGE & THE CENTRAL TABLELANDS
(max 48)
Organised by Diana Pine Greater West Region
Tuesday 11 March to Sunday 16 March 2025
Depart Tuesday 11 March 7:45am from Central Station Bay 8 Western Forecourt and 8:30am from Railway St Pennant Hills and 9:00am from Fitzwilliam St Parramatta
Return Sunday 16 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 2025 coach operating & fuel costs)
• $1,540 pp for 40 +
• $1,570 pp for 35 - 39
• $1,600 pp for 30 - 34
• Single supplement $500 (limited rooms)
During this holiday, we will be staying at the Best Western Plus Ambassador. Over the week, we will be exploring the Central Tablelands and Orange whilst visiting the village of Lucknow, Borrodell winery, Canowindra and Age of Fishes Museum, Rosnay Organic Farm, Manildra (Australia’s oldest operating theatre, the AMUSU Theatre), Molong (classified by the National Trust), Bathurst (Mt Panorama, National Motor Museum and heritage listed Abercrombie House).
Bookings for Sydney u3a members (non-member spouses/partners accepted) open on Monday 8 July 2024
Bookings: Diana Pine 4861 3721. Method for payment given at time of booking.
Deposit: $100 must be paid by Friday 13 September 2024. NB: Balance must be paid by Tuesday 28 January 2025
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 Sydney u3a will be accepted.
CITY AND INNER WEST
President: Vicki Moss vickimossy@gmail.com (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 from 2 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 2 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 3 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 5 Jul 10:00 to 11:30 (excluding school holidays)
This is qigong in a collaborative environment. Qigong, according to Chinese culture, is beneficial to maintaining good health.
Bookings: Denise Yuen sdyuen@gmail.com 0410 570 188
Language ESL
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (max 14)
Every Friday from 5 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 idioms. A relaxed way to practice and improve your English with a friendly group.
Leader and Bookings: Janet Egan janet.egan@gmail.com 0415 133 994
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 1 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
We are a friendly group who discuss current affairs topics nominated by our members in turn. We allow issues and context to be fully explored with no topic out of bounds. Our discussions are always conducted with respect and sensitivity. Everyone is welcome.
Leader and Bookings: John Neely johnwilliamneely@gmail.com 0418 471 183
Sociology Communication WORD OF MOUTH TO SOCIAL MEDIA
Alternate Wednesdays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Human beings are gregarious by nature. They are held that way by developing methods and systems of communication i.e. by geoglyphs a thousand years ago to social media today. Leader: Frank Wilson 0466 499 318
Bookings: Betty Candy bjcandy@bigpond.com 0466 499 318
BURWOOD RSL
96 Shaftesbury Rd parking onsite, train station nearby Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364
Language Japanese JAPANESE FOR BEGINNERS
Every Tuesday from 2 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
INVESTMENT DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Thursdays from 4 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 5 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
BURWOOD: WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY CENTRE
22 Church St train station nearby, parking onsite Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com (preferred) 0419 017 364
Music Recorder RECORDER GROUP
Every Tuesday from 2 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 or 9569 8167
Cinema VENUE CHANGE TO BURWOOD RSL CLASSIC MOVIES (max 15)
Alternate Wednesdays from 3 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 10 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)
GLEBE LIBRARY
186 Glebe Point Rd Cnr Wigram Rd Benledi Room Venue Coordinator Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com (preferred) 0412 595 891
Language Japanese JAPANESE
Every Thursday from 4 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: Jan O’Loughlin janmi333@hotmail.com 0422 637 385
Book Group
FIRST FRIDAY BOOK GROUP
First Friday of every month from 5 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 nmacindoe@gmail.com 0424 537 557
Language Spanish SPANISH PRONTO! (Beginners)
Every Wednesday from 24 Jul 11:00 to 1:00
Enhance your language skills with fun and engaging lessons designed to welcome beginners. Deepen your understanding of Hispanic history, culture and Latin American music. Join me to embark on a linguistic and cultural journey like no other!
Leader: Jorge Lopez
Bookings: jglopez1310@hotmail.com or 0431 241 370
Language Spanish SPANISH PRONTO! (Intermediate)
Every Wednesday from 17Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Enhance your language skills with fun and engaging lessons designed to welcome intermediate learners. Deepen your understanding of Hispanic history, culture and Latin American music. Join me to embark on a linguistic and cultural journey like no other!
Leader: Jorge Lopez
Bookings: jglopez1310@hotmail.com or 0431 241 370
GLEBE: THE OLD TOWN HALL
160 St Johns Rd Bus 469, 470 Venue Coordinator Pauline Valentine gregory_1947@hotmail.com (preferred) 0412 595 891
Art Drawing DRAWING (max 15)
Alternate Thursdays from 4 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 4 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.
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 2 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 26 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Interesting talks covering various topics.
Bookings: Janice Millard rjmillard5@icloud.com 0419 203 361
Architecture
1. Better housing design to cure inequality
26 Jul
How to live in a more environmentally conscious way, to increase communality in building forms and better land, energy, and water use.
Speaker: Adj Prof Tone Wheeler
History
2. The Arab World Part 1
9 Aug
The Arabs founded Islam and defeated the old empires of west Asia. The world benefited immensely by their efforts to preserve old world knowledge.
Speaker: Himanshu Jhala
History
3. The Arab World Part 2
23 Aug
The Turks and the Mongols invaded and destabilised Arab rule, then Britain and France induced fragmentation. The quest for ‘Arab Unity’ remains an elusive dream.
Speaker: Himanshu Jhala
History
4. A Taste of War
6 Sep
The challenging logistics of provisioning and feeding rankand-file soldiers in the trenches.
Speaker: Diana Noyce
Music Performance
5. Let’s put on a show
20 Sep
How musicals are selected, cast, rehearsed, and staged and how it is now a big business.
Speaker: Tom Sweeney
Maritime
6. Australia in Antarctica
18 Oct
The Commonwealth Government established a permanent base in Antarctica post WW2. Learn about expedition vessels like the M/V Wyatt Earp and Australia’s newest icebreaker, RSV Nuyina.
Speaker: Richard de Grijs
Archaeology
7. The History, Science, and use of Clay
1 Nov
Clay production from start to finish. The influence of archaeology and culture on clay products as well as health and safety issues.
Speaker: David Malone
Broadcasting
8. The ABC – achievements and challenges
15 Nov
Learn about Australia’s national independent public broadcaster and the challenges it faces, both historically and currently, in a rapidly changing media landscape.
Speaker: Janine Kirson
Art
9. Edouard Manet
29 Nov
Manet deliberately shocked the art world as he transitioned from realism to impressionism. We learn about his life and mostly view his art.
Speaker: Reinhard Ronnebeck
Sociology
10. Intergenerational engagement
13 Dec
Bringing older-adults and preschoolers together in structured activity is thought to benefit both groups in ways that might surprise you. Find out how and why.
Speaker: Dr Ruth Peters
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 every month from 11 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Are you passionate about politics, climate change, the environment? Do you question decisions made by those in power that shape our lives, our nation and the world at large? Each month we will discuss a current title, chosen by the group.
Leader and Bookings: Stuart Corner corner.stuart@gmail.com 0419 492 190
REVESBY COMMUNITY HALL
Macarthur Ave
Venue Coordinator Joy Pegler peglerjm@bigpond.com 9771 6185
Tai Chi
TAI CHI (max 20)
Every Thursday from 4 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 every month from 23 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 rdeanee297@gmail.com 9726 4279
ROZELLE: HANNAFORD CENTRE
608 Darling St Cnr Nelson St wheelchair access
Discussion Group DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)
Every Monday from 1 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 2 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
Language French ADVANCED FRENCH DISCUSSION (max 12)
Every Tuesday from 2 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
STRATHFIELD CROQUET CLUB
50 Redmyre Rd
Parking nearby train station nearby, bus stop outside Venue Coordinator Anne Hall annenhall@gmail.com 0419 017 364
Games Croquet
TRY CROQUET: THREE PRACTICAL SESSIONS
Three Fridays 5, 12, 19 Jul 9:20 to 12:30
Croquet is an engaging outdoor sport which almost anyone can play, providing challenge, diversity and best of all- fun. Everything is free including the use of the lawns, facilities, mallets, balls. You will be coached in skills, strategies and rules.
Bookings: Bob Phillips bobphillips@bigpond.com
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)
Writing
CITY WRITING CLUB
Alternate Mondays from 1 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
Art Galleries
DECONSTRUCTING CONTEMPORARY ART (max 25)
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Visit contemporary art shows in Sydney galleries fortnightly. On alternate weeks, meet at the City Office for evaluation of news, events, trends, theory and history of the work visited. Build a virtual art collection and develop a personal aesthetic. Good physical fitness required.
Leader and Bookings: Wendy Fraser barrieandwendy@gmail.com 9569 7942 0408 711 672
Book Group
PATRICK O’BRIAN’S AUBREY-MATURIN NOVELS (max 12)
First Friday of every month from 5 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Not A Moment To Lose. Follow Captain Jack Aubrey and his friend, and ship’s doctor, Stephen Maturin as they adventure at sea and misadventure on land during the Napoleonic era. Lots of fun and plenty to learn.
Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink raspberryink@icloud.com
Cinema Movies
FILM APPRECIATION (max 18)
Alternate Mondays from 8 Jul 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
Book Group
CITY READING GROUP (max 12)
Every Second and Fourth Friday of every month from 11 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Reading in a circle is very satisfying! Focusing on books well known but not always read, join us as we take turns in reading, then together discussing and rediscovering these treasurers. Currently: The Canterbury Tales. Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink rasberryink@icloud.com
TUESDAYS IN THE CITY (max 33)
Most Tuesdays from 23 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Interesting talks covering various topics. Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org (preferred) or Jane Fissenden janeglebe@icloud.com 0458 505 101
Religion
1.The Bible Timeline Part 1
23 Jul
The Bible Timeline Chart shows how the books of the Bible fit together to tell the story of Creation, Adam/Eve, Christ and the Church.
Speaker: Charbel Raish
Religion
2.The Bible Timeline Part 2
30 Jul
The Bible Timeline Chart identifies and arranges key people, places and events of Sacred Scripture in chronological order, helping you see the Bible’s ‘big picture’.
Speaker: Charbel Raish
Health
3.A stroke, hopefully not of bad luck
6 Aug
Early recognition, action and reducing risks. Rapid recognition and effective action save brain cells and function. Much can be done to reduce your risk.
Speaker: Christine Lopanski
Painting Photography
4.Caravaggio and the power of the cinematic image
20 Aug
How a radical painter of the 16th century changed Italian Baroque art and how understanding his images can improve our photography
Speaker: Martin Wetherill
Writing
5.Nosey Bob the hangman
27 Aug
A criminally good session on researching and writing true crime. Author of An Uncommon Hangman, Rachel will show you how to use Trove effectively
Speaker: Rachel Franks
Famous People Art
6. Vincent Van Gogh
3 Sep
Although today Van Gogh is one of the most liked artists, he sold only one painting in his life. We shall view his paintings and discuss his life.
Speaker: Reinhard Ronnebeck
Visual Literacy
7. Visual Literacy in the age of the digital screen
17 Sep
A brief history of the way we experience the moving image, from the cinema to black and white TV to Netflix on an iphone.
Speaker: Martin Wetherill
History Australia
8.European search - the Great South Land
24 Sep
Some of the myths and lesser known facts that led to the establishment and spectacular development of this once far off land.
Speaker: Geoff Davidson
Inventions
9.Nikola Tesla
1 Oct
Nikola Tesla, a brilliant Inventor but tragic eccentric, did not invent the electric car but some of his unrecognised inventions improve our lives every day.
Speaker: Don Napper
Language
10.History of Australian slang
15 Oct
Background to the Macquarie Dictionary and its adventures in spelling, taboo words, flashpoints in politics, and new words. Then standards in usage –cliches, punctuation, jargon.
Speaker: Sue Butler
Science
11.An Introduction to Forensic Science
22 Oct
A history of Forensic Science across several disciplines, including Forensic Anthropology, Forensic Entomology and the use of insects in the investigation of criminal matters.
Speaker: Ian Thompson
History
12.Science on Captain James Cook’s Ship, the Endeavour
29 Oct
Science on James Cook’s ship Endeavour included observing the transit of Venus, new navigation techniques and Joseph Banks’ collections and illustrations of plants and animals.
Speakers: Pam Forbes & Greg Jackson
Health
13.The expanding horizons of Physiotherapy
5 Nov
Physiotherapy traces back to Aristotle. It has developed from females massaging soldiers in WW1 to a highly skilled profession even including FIFO teams to WA.
Speaker: Winsome Baker
Nature
14.Spiders in the Home and Garden
19 Nov
A close-up look at the fascinating world of spiders in the home and garden, including the biology and diversity of both dangerous and harmless spiders.
Speaker: Ian Thompson
History Ancient
15.Ancient Egypt
26 Nov
Some wonders of Ancient Egypt – burial customs, the beautiful tomb of queen Nefertari and interesting discoveries.
Speaker: Glennise West
History
16.What Calamities Tell Us About the Past 3 Dec
What can we learn from epidemics, shipwrecks and aircraft crashes? Examine real historical evidence to explore what calamities tell us about our ancestors & their world.
Speaker: Dr Peter Hobbins
Science Astronomy
THE UNIVERSE, RELATIVITY AND GRAVITATION
Alternate Thursdays from 25 Jul 1:30 to 3:30 (3 sessions)
These talks describe the very fabric of space-time. 25 Jul - Cosmology – the origin, shape, and ultimate fate of the universe.
8 Aug - Relativity revealed – Einstein’s discoveries: the effect of speed and gravity on spacetime.
22 Aug - Gravitational waves – their discovery and significance.
Leader: Ian Bryce
Bookings: Annika Tults annikatults@gmail.com
Literature
EVERYTHING ABOUT BOOKS (max 10)
Second Tuesday of every month from 13 Aug 1:30 to 3:30
Looking to widen your reading? To find out about new authors, their interests, and their books. Miscellany of books, book topics, events. Biography, fiction, crimewriting, and nature-writing etc. Talks by guest contributor and Chloë Mason.
Leader and Bookings: Chloë Mason chloemason89@outlook.com
Legal matters
UNDERSTANDING AUSTRALIAN LAW
Alternate Thursdays from 19 Sep 1:30 to 3:30 (6 sessions)
Where laws come from, how the system works, legal dimensions of current events including the: Australian Constitution, rule of law, judges, juries, barristers, solicitors, how trials are run, the principles of evidence, crime, contracts, negligence, human rights, and international law. Leader and Bookings: David Hirsch dhirsch@selbornechambers.com.au
OUT THERE
Games Pétanque
PÉTANQUE GROUP
Every second Monday from 8 Jul 2:00 to 4:00 Originating in France, the game is played by two teams with the goal of getting the most boules, or metal balls, closest to the target. Suitable for beginners and experienced players. Meet at the top gate at Ballast Point Park Birchgrove.
Leader and Bookings: Peter Neale and Linda Larsen peter.neale909@gmail.com 0403 366 613
Outdoors Eating Out
LUNCH OUT AND ABOUT (max 20)
Second Tuesday of every month from 9 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 18 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 every month from 3 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. At the July meeting we will be discussing Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Linda See.
Leader and Bookings: Kris Clarke clarketk@gmail.com 9705 1017 (enquiries only)
Games
SCRABBLE CLUB (Pyrmont)
Second Wednesday of each month from 10 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
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, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
FRIDAYS AT COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA
Every Friday from 26 July 10:30 to 12:00
A variety of presentations of general interest looking at topics relevant to us in today’s world. NO BOOKINGS are required.
History
1. India today
26 Jul
Since its independence India has overcome challenges including a hostile West to become a thriving modern nation which now faces new challenges.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Science
2. Colour in art and science
2 Aug
What is colour? How have we analysed it in science and art? How is colour created in nature and our attempts to imitate it.
Presenter: Adj Prof Laurie Wilson
History
3. First contact with Europeans
9 Aug
The impact on Indigenous society of first contact with Europeans.
Presenter: Gavin Crawford
History
4. The Sydney Opera House 16 Aug
The history of the Sydney Opera House
Presenter: Nitza Rubinstein
Science
5. Darwin, the Ugly Brother, the Short-faced Tumbler,and the Crinoline 23 Aug
Race, gender and sexuality in the Making of Sexual Selection.
Presenter: Eveleen Richards Hon Prof History University of Sydney
Philosophy
6. To Be or Not to Be a Stoic?
30 Aug
Why are we witnessing an upsurge in the popularity of Stoicism with the general public today? Is it possible to apply Stoic ideas to our everyday lives?
Presenter: Janet Keller
Society
7.The Refugee Council of Australia
6 Sep
What the Refugee Council of Australia does.
Presenter: Dr Shaneen Whyte Senior Policy Officer
History
8. The Forsaken 13 Sep
In the Great Depression thousands of unemployed American workers went to make a new start in the workers’ paradise of the USSR.
Presenter: Colin Smith
Literature
9. A story of Australia and its Literature
20 Sep
Looking at Australia,its history and its people as portrayed through our literature.
Presenter: Gale Witcombe
Religion
10. The Will to Believe-Anything
27 Sep
Dr Rachael Kohn will talk about her book The Will to Believe-Anything which draws on Dr Kohn’s corpus of writing and several of her books.
Presenter: Dr Rachael Kohn
4 Oct - NO U3A TALK – JEWISH HOLIDAY COA CLOSED
Language
11. World of Words
11 Oct
The English language-history, usage, pronunciation, etymology - an opportunity to share our prejudices, preferences, antipathies.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
Music
12. Bach across the centuries
18 Oct
Bach spent his whole life in Northern Germany employed by the church or small noble courts but his powerful legacy reaches into the present century.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
25 Oct - NO U3A TALK - JEWISH HOLIDAYCOA CLOSED
Travel
13. A trip to Antarctica
1 Nov
Barb Wright recounts her trip to Antarctica in 2023.
Presenter: Barb Wright
Art
14. Current exhibitions at the Art Gallery of NSW
8 Nov
Current exhibitions at the Art Gallery of NSW.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
History
15. Reckoning
15 Nov
David Hill will talk about his book Reckoning about the forgotten children and their quest for justice.
Presenter: David Hill
Politics
16.Henry Kissinger
22 Nov
Henry Kissinger was a controversial and major historical figure and knowing why he is viewed as divisive is interesting in itself.
Presenter: Dr Harry Melkonian
Science and Technology
17.Glass
29 Nov
What is your favourite glass object? We use this marvelous material everyday, from windows to drinking glasses and many other applications. Glass has a long history of being used in beautiful objects, scientific instruments and some devices that I hope will surprise you.
Presenter: Debbie Rudder
Architecture
18.Serving the cycle of life - Red Vienna architecture
6 Dec
We re-visit Vienna of 1920s-1930s – that brief, turbulent period in the history of the Austrian capital.
Presenter: Larisa Sarkadi
Event
19.End of year lunch
6 Dec from 12:00
BONDI JUNCTION: MILL HOTEL
59B Oxford St
Book Group
EASTERN CRIME READERS GROUP
Third Tuesday every month from 16 Jul 10:15 to 12:15
The group selects titles for the Semester. Bookings and Leader: Sandy See sandra.l.see@gmail.com 0412 044 811
BONDI JUNCTION: WAVERLY LIBRARY
32-48 Denison St Level 1 Study Room 4
Book Group
WAVERLEY BOOK GROUP
First Thursday every month from 4 Jul 2:00 to 4:00 Everyone suggests a book they have read or recommended. New members welcome.
Bookings: Jennifer Woodroffe jenniferwoodroffe@hotmail.com(preferred) 0418 40 4881
CLOVELLY SENIOR CITIZEN CENTRE
40-42 Arden St
On street parking, buses nearby
Discussion Group Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 20)
Alternate Tuesdays from 9 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 16 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Join us for occasional debate and social interaction if you are interested in the world around you.
Leader Gwen Zeller gszeller@gmail.com 0404 781 162
Bookings: Marise Segelov marisesegelov@gmail.com 9363 4023 or 0410 514 866
PADDINGTON: EJ WARD CENTRE
189 Underwood St (cnr George St) bus stop nearby
Language French
FRENCH CONVERSATION (Advanced) (max 20)
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 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 every month from 3 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
NORTH BONDI BOOK GROUP (max 10)
Third Wednesday every month from 17 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
Music Appreciation DISCOVERING FINE MUSIC (Randwick)
Every second Monday from 22 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
We listen to compositions from the great masters, focusing on their lesser known works, as well as composers who are often overlooked today. We also include Australian composers and performers. Group participation warmly welcomed as are new members.
Leader and Bookings: Julie Reid julievreid@gmail.com 0411 575 157
ENDEAVOUR (SOUTHERN)
Regional President: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com
Regional Course Coordinator: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
BOTANY BAY FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH CENTRE
184 Gannons Rd, Caringbah South
Genealogy
FAMILY HISTORY BASICS – GETTING STARTED (max 10) ** NEW **
Tuesday 6 Aug 9:45 to 2:30
We will look at Getting Started and Staying Organised, using FamilySearch, Ancestry, FindMyPast, Trove and DNA kits. Format allows for questions and discussion. Day consists of 3 sessions – please bring morning tea and lunch –tea/coffee supplied.
Leader: Lilian Magill lily@researchbylily.com.au 0409 911 402. Co-Leader: Carol Cronan 0468 515 670 Bookings: Carole Goodyer goodycj43@gmail.com 0411 529 245
CRONULLA COMMUNITY HALL
1/38-60 Croydon St
Meeting Room 1, wheelchair access, train station nearby
Language French FRENCH FOR INTERMEDIATE SPEAKERS (max 16)
Every Monday from 29 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
6 Surf Rd
Upstairs Activity Room/Lecture Room, wheelchair access, lift available and train station nearby.
PRESENTATIONS – TOPICS OF INTEREST (max 80)
Mondays from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:00
Various presentations about different interesting topics. Enquiries ONLY Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com Bookings not required. Please bring a friend.
History
1.The stories behind hidden Sydney Monday 1 Jul
Hear stories of Kings Cross and Surry Hills including tales of Kate Leigh and Tilly Devine and other underground figures.
Presenter: Trevor McAlister
Crime
2.Crime stoppers Monday 26 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
History
3.My father, a driver for a Chinese opium warlord Monday 16 Sep
Chinese Far Eastern Railway, warlords, the Japanese army, and the triumph of Chinese communism figured prominently in my family’s stories - from Russia via China to Sydney
Presenter: Lydia Fegan
Media
4.Behind the scenes in media and celebrity Monday 28 Oct
Anita Jacoby AM is one of Australia’s most distinguished television producers, from The Gruen Transfer to Enough Rope with Andrew Denton, 60 Minutes, Elders and Hungry Beast. Her book Secrets Beyond the Screen, will be available on the day
Presenter: Anita Jacoby AM
Technology
5.Artificial intelligence – past, present and future Monday 4 Nov
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
Legal Matters
6.Understanding Australian law Mondays 2 , 9 Dec (2 sessions)
A discussion about the origins of our legal system, the Australian Constitution, the Rule of Law, legislation, common law, civil and criminal trials, the principles of the law of evidence, and the problem of sentencing.
Presenter: David Hirsch
History Ancient
OVERVIEW OF ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL HISTORY (max 25)
First and Third Tuesday from 2 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: Carmen Izquierdo marycarmeniz@hotmail.com
Literature
READING AND DISCUSSING SHAKESPEARE (max 20)
First and Third Tuesdays from 2 Jul 2:00 to 3:30
Join in reading aloud the great plays and discussing their plots, characters, etc. The first play will be The Tragedy of Julius Caesar. Please bring a copy of the play.
Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund r.englund@optusnet.com.au 8521 7540
Travel
ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS (max 50)
First and Third Wednesdays from 3 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
Music
HISTORY OF ROCK MUSIC FROM 1960s ONWARDS (max 40)
First Thursday of the month from 4 Jul 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
Cinema AT THE CINEMA – ANTHONY HOPKINS (max 40)
First and Third Thursday from 4 Jul 1:30 to 4:00 Experience and discuss some of the films from one of the UK’s greatest actors. A program will be available at the first session.
Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund r.englund@optusnet.com.au 8521 7540
Discussion Group
OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP B (max 20)
First and Third Friday from 5 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Topics of current interest are suggested by members. Each member has the opportunity to express their point of view uninterrupted. This is followed by questions and comments given in a respectful manner.
Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au (email preferred) 0423 532 582
Discussion Group
OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP A (max 20)
Second and Fourth Wednesdays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Topics of current interest are suggested by members. Each member has the opportunity to express their point of view uninterrupted. This is followed by questions and comments given in a respectful manner.
Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au (email preferred) 0423 532 582
Cinema WHAT MAKES GREAT MOVIES GREAT (max 20) ** NEW **
Fourth Thursday of the month from 25 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Short talk about the characteristics of film selected, that go towards making it great viewing. Screening of film without interruption. General discussion of film by members, while having afternoon tea.
Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au (email preferred) 0423 532 582
Games
BRAIN GAMES (max 20)
Second and Fourth Fridays from 12 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
Art Appreciation
ART HISTORY (max 40)
Second and Fourth Tuesdays from 23 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 cook44271@gmail.com 0488 286 324
Language Italian ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (max 15)
Every Thursday from 25 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
Some basic Italian is required. Expand your Italian through stories, poems, songs and recipes with conversation and writing activities to practice the appropriate grammar. We also introduce some Italian history, culture and current affairs.
Leader: John Della Torre jrdellatorre@gmail.com 8544 1758
Bookings: Judy Bassford judybassford7@gmail.com 9527 2931
GYMEA COMMUNITY CENTRE
31-33 Gymea Bay Rd
Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Dance
MIDDLE EASTERN DANCING (max 30)
Every Monday from 1 Jul 1:00 to 2:00
Many styles of dance are used in these classes – Middle Eastern/Gypsy/Latin/Spanish/African. The music is a mix of “old time” numbers and some traditional music. The choreography suits older bodies and there is never any pressure to “get it right”.
Leader: Faye Green shalinabd@bigpond.com 9521 6575
Bookings: Wendy Lobwein wendy.rae.lob@hotmail.com 9527 4696
Art Drawing
DRAWING WITH COLOUR (max 20)
Every Tuesday from 23 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@outlook.com 0438 614 087
Bookings: Kerrie Gowen kerriegowen65@icloud.com 0409 457 028
Art Appreciation
DISCOVERING ART (max 25)
First and Third Tuesdays from 6 Aug 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
GYMEA TRADIES
57 Manchester Rd
Wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby
Archaeology
ASPECTS OF ARCHAEOLOGY (max 16)
First and Third Wed from 3 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
There is a video each meeting on archaeology followed by readings from articles relating to archaeology. Leader and Bookings: Mary Armstrong 9534 2675
Bookings: Judy Breen breenjj3@gmail.com 0417 490 177
Language
INTRODUCTION TO ITALIAN – PART 2 (max 12)
Every Wednesday from 24 Jul 11:00 to 1:00 (excluding school holidays)
Learn the basic Italian grammar and simple conversation such as: introductions, ordering drinks and food, buying tickets, shopping & more. This Semester will continue to build on learning outcomes covered in Semester 1. Leader: Kylie Archer kylie@kidgredients.com.au
Bookings: Nilva Martini nilvalsim@gmail.com
Art Urban Sketching
SHIRE SKETCHING (max 40)
Every Thursday from 25 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 cook44271@gmail.com 0488 286 324
Bookings: Anne O’Donnell anneodonn@gmail.com 0408 203 205
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 16 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Come and share your stories and life experiences with a very friendly group 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 7 Aug 1:30 to 3:30 (excluding school holidays)
Did you miss out on learning about Australian history at school? Come and join this informal group and learn about a variety of subjects from indigenous culture and settlement through to current day happenings.
Leader: Janice Stokes stokesj@optusnet.com.au 0418 415 249
Bookings: Caroline Munro 0424 377 458
OATLEY HOTEL
8 Oatley Ave, parking nearby
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)
Every Monday from 1 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
OATLEY LIBRARY
26 Letitia St
Wheelchair access, parking nearby
Art
OATLEY ART AND CRAFTERS (max 12)
Every Wednesday from 24 Jul 2:00 to 4:00 (excluding school holidays)
Enjoy Art and Crafts? This group is for you! Bring your project of choice and enjoy a very social two hours creativity. Projects have included: painting, decoupage, knitting, quilting and sketching – anything arty or crafty. Afternoon tea supplied – along with laughter.
Leader and Bookings: Barbara-Jean Adams beejaya@outlook.com 0438 299 108
Bookings: Maryanne Milligan 0416 965 736
SOUTH HURSTVILLE RSL
The Pinnacles 72 Connells Point Rd
Wheelchair access, parking nearby
Book Group
AWARD-WINNING BOOKS (max 10)
First Wednesday of every month from 3 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 Tuesdays from 2 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
OUT THERE
Outdoors Eating Out
LUNCH A LOT WITH STYLE (max 25)
First Thursday of the month from 4 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 AROUND SYDNEY (max 40)
Alternate Friday from 5 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@gmail.com 0402 495 739
Bookings: Jennifer Hawkins jenniferhawkins798@gmail.com (email preferred) 0418 464 253
Outdoors Bushwalking SYDNEY STRIDERS (max 35)
Alternate Wednesdays from 10 Jul 9:00 to 2:00
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 mary@shannon.id.au 0439 813 174
Bookings: Lesley Tinker tinkertogs@gmail.com 0409 395 492
Outdoors
WALKING IN SYDNEY AND SURROUNDS (max 35)
Fortnightly from Friday 12 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 or 0419 249 711
Outdoors Eating Out FLAVOUR OF THE MONTH
Second Friday of the month from 12 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 cook44271@gmail.com 0488 286 324
Outdoors Bushwalking ENDEAVOUR CAMPUS WALKERS (max 35)
Every Thursday from 25 Jul (excluding school holidays) Starting and finishing times will vary Sydney by public transport and foot. Our Walks Program indicates degree of difficulty. We invite everyone to organise one walk each year.
Leader: Christine Horrocks christine.anne7@outlook.com 0438 614 087 Bookings: June Symes jsymes6@gmail.com 0408 077 900
Outdoors Sketching SHIRE SKETCHING – COMPONENT OF THURSDAY SESSION (max 40)
Every Saturday from 27 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 cook44271@gmail.com 0488 286 324
Bookings: Anne O’Donnell anneodonn@gmail.com 0408 203 205
PRIVATE HOMES
Book Group
BOOK BANTER (Gymea) (max 12)
First Friday of the month from 5 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
19TH CENTURY HISTORICAL SYDNEY BUILDINGS (Kirrawee) (max 10)
Second Monday of the month from 8 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
This term at Nola’s History room, we will hear about Sydney’s important government buildings built in the 19th century and the men responsible for the excellent outcomes. Their legacy remains with us to this day.
Leader: Nola Watt 9545 1758
Bookings: Liz Rutledge lizrutledge93@gmail.com
History Culture
AUSTRALIA OUR LAND (Gymea) (max 10)
Every Wednesday from 24 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)
Using books and videos from the library we study and discuss the environmental, geographical, historical and cultural aspects of our wonderful country.
Leader: Angela Balding bistenhouse@yahoo.com 9524 2018
Bookings: Trevor Campbell 9525 6970
GREATER WESTERN
Regional President: Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net (preferred) 0418 447 754
Regional Course Coordinator: Dallas Corcoran dallaslouise50@gmail.com 0402 639 380 Enquiries only
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
BLACKTOWN: WESTPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE
Alpha St, Community Room Fourth Floor wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby Games
FUN AND GAMES (max 20)
Every Friday from 5 Jul 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 & Alpha St Study Room wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
History Genealogy
FAMILY TREE MYSTERIES (max 10)
First and Third Tuesday of the month from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This is a support group for those researching their family history. From beginners to those with over thirty years’ experience in genealogy, our friendly group 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
First and Third Tuesday of the month from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This lively discussion group researches and discusses ideas on a wide variety of contemporary issues, taking turns to lead discussion on a particular issue per session. At times, we invite a guest speaker to lead the discussion. Will deliver on Zoom if needed.
Leader and Bookings: Jim Gray jcgray01@optusnet.com.au
John Brockman alban.kingslangley@gmail.com
MARAYONG: COMMUNITY CENTRE
62 Railway Rd.
wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby
Tai Chi
TAI CHI/ QIGONG
Every Tuesday from 23 Jul 9:30 to 11:00 not school holidays
An oriental exercise that reduces the risk of falls through improving co-ordination, balance, flexibility. The low impact nature of Tai Chi/Qigong is suitable for all ages.
Leader and Bookings: Ellen Pilgrim stanp@optusnet.com.au 0407 450 291
NORTHMEAD: NBC SPORTS CLUB
166 Windsor Rd
Wheelchair access, parking onsite, bus stop nearby
Discussion Group
A LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)
Second and Fourth Monday of the month from 8 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Have your say. We may not agree with what you say but we will defend your right to say it.
Leader: Kerry Houghton Kerry.houghton1@gmail.com
Bookings: Sue Nielson suenielson@hotmail.com 0421 830 316
PARRAMATTA PHIVE
5 Parramatta Square
wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
Genealogy
GROWING YOUR FAMILY TREE (max 12)
First and Third Tuesday of the month from 2 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: Ann Rowntree ann.rowntree@gmail.com
History
FRIDAY HISTORY WITH COLIN SMITH
First and Third Friday of the month from 5 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
1.The Tudors
5 Jul – 18 Oct (8 sessions)
The Tudor Dynasty brought stability to England after the anarchy of the War of the Roses. It also introduced religious changes.
Presenter: Colin Smith
2.The Chinese Cultural Revolution
1 Nov – 15 Nov (2 sessions)
To restore his political power, in 1966 Mao Zedong launched 10 years of madness on the Chinese nation.
Presenter: Colin Smith
Bookings: Steve Bensley steveben@aapt.net.au (preferred) 0401 454 364
TUESDAYS AT PHIVE
Second and Fourth Tuesday of the month from 9 Jul
10:00 to 12:00
Interesting presentations from passionate people.
Bookings: Ann Todd anntoddu3a@gmail.com
Australian History
1.William Dampier
9 Jul
The first Englishman to set foot on Australian soil and one of history’s forgotten men. The poet Coleridge described him as a “pirate of exquisite mind”. Why?
Presenter: Robin Amos
History
2.History through nursery rhymes
23 Jul
Many of the colloquial rhymes we now think of as ‘nursery rhymes’ began as satirical and subversive commentary on religion, politics and the English monarchy from the 13th to 18th centuries.
Presenter: Susan Ackroyd
Australian Travel
3.The pleasure of travel and tourism
13 Aug
There are many pleasures in travel, but we rarely stop to consider what they are. This talk surveys a range of history tourism sites in Australia, and the pleasures and emotions they provoke.
Presenter: Richard White
History
4.India 1: Home to diverse ethnicities, cultures and religions
27 Aug
India hosts a complex society of diverse cultures. It shaped cultures in Southeast Asia and in turn was profoundly impacted by Persianate Islamic culture.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History
5.India 2: Transition from political independence to a modern state
10 Sep
The second most profound impact on India was that of the British Raj. Since independence, India has been striving to restore its global prominence.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Science
6.Discoveries and inventions that have shaped our world
24 Sep
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
Australian History
7.Boy soldiers of World War I
8 Oct
Some of Australia’s youngest soldiers and sailors who did what they could to enlist.
Presenter: Garry Smith
Science
8.History and mythology with storytelling
22 Oct
A short history of myth from indigenous through to present day. Understanding ourselves, understanding how we got to where we are, followed by a brief survey and telling of Homer’s Odyssey.
Presenter: Jonathon Drew
Science
9.DNA – how did it build you and me?
12 Nov
DNA is the blueprint for all living beings. We discuss how the four components - ATGC - build our body with all our different features and behaviours.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake
Science
10.Epigenetics
26 Nov
Describing the mechanisms by which the lifestyles of our parents and grandparents could influence our health and well-being.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake
Calligraphy
CALLIGRAPHY (max 18)
Second and Fourth Thursday of the month from 11 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 face-to-face.
Leader: Georgie Tuck georginatuck93@gmail.com 9626 1334
Bookings: Deborah Gracic deb.gracic@gmail.com (preferred) 9636 6512
Book Group
BOOK OF THE MONTH (max 20)
Fourth Monday of the month from 22 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Discussion on the month’s book within a dynamic group. We share our reading experience, expand our understanding, enjoy a terrific morning conversation, while learning and, at times, laughing.
Leader and Bookings: Judy McShane judymcs@hotmail.com (preferred) 0419 406 912
Music Opera
MAGIC MOMENTS IN CLASSICAL MUSIC (max 10)
Second and Fourth Wednesday of the month (8 sessions) from 24 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
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, through their music, feelings and emotions that are otherwise inexpressible.
Leader and Bookings: Peter Anderson
oeuvres@tpg.com.au (preferred) 0416 019 512
Book Group
THRILLERS AND MYSTERIES (max 10)
Fourth Thursday of the month from 25 Jul 12:30 to 2:30
Do you love reading ‘whodunits’? Then join our energetic book club. We take turns in selecting two authors for each month.
Leader and Bookings: Ann Todd anntoddu3a@gmail.com 0428 857 790
TOONGABBIE: ST ANTHONY’S CHURCH HALL
Aurelia St
Wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
Games Canasta Mah Jong
MONDAY CANASTA AND MAH JONG (Western Style) (max 25)
Every Monday from 1 Jul 1:00 to 3:30
Learn Canasta and Mah Jong (Western Style) in a friendly group: practise, refresh and polish up your skills for both these social games.
Leaders and Bookings: Kerrie Booth 0431 953 419 June Keith junekeith@optusnet.com.au 0412 040 230
Dance
RHYTHM OF THE DANCE & LINE DANCING (max 30)
Every Wednesday from 3 Jul 1:15 to 2:45 not school holidays
Strengthen your balance and memory skills by dancing away to the music of the Waltz, Cha Cha, Rumba, Tango and more, in this relaxed easy to follow class. 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
Dance
BALLROOM DANCING (max 30)
Every Thursday from 25 Jul 1:00 to 3:00 not school holidays
Have fun! Learn the basic dancing steps of Latin American, New Vogue and Traditional Ballroom. No partners required. Leader and Bookings: Cecilia Padlan cbeauty023@gmail.com 0415 965 325
WINSTON HILLS: ILLABUNDA VILLAGE
16 Buckleys Road
Nature
INTRODUCTION TO PERMACULTURE (Winston Hills) **NEW **
First and Third Tuesday of the month from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (6 sessions)
We will look at some of the elements of leading a more sustainable lifestyle, including ecology, permaculture, ethics, climate issues and ideas on soil and water. Gardening is only one part of it. Leader and Bookings: Michelle Sacco michelesacco@yahoo.com 0411347995
Creative Writing
WRITING CREATIVELY
Second and Fourth Monday of the month via email from 8 Jul
Learn the skills of transforming experiences into prose and poetry in a friendly, supportive group.
Leader and Bookings: Glennis Henning ghenning1940@gmail.com 0411 108 832
OUT THERE
Movies
THE MOVIE CLUB
First Tuesday of the month from 2 Jul not school holidays
View a new release movie at various cinemas, and then enjoy lunch or coffee afterwards to discuss the film.
Leader and Bookings: Judy Buhagiar judybuh@outlook.com 9631 4102
Outdoors
WALKING AROUND GREATER SYDNEY (WAGS) Second Friday of every month from 12 July
A variety of walks around Sydney and surrounds from medium to easier bushwalks, track and street walks. Bookings: Keith Austin 0437 537 137 (text only)
Outdoor Outings
SYDNEY u3a WESTERN WALKERS (max 20) Fourth Friday of the month from 26 Jul
From easy to hard grade bush tracks and street walks around Sydney. Explore beautiful and interesting places. Leader and Bookings: Keith Austin panaust@tpg.com.au 0437 537 137 (text only)
PRIVATE HOMES
Desktop Flying
DESK-TOP FLYING FOR SENIORS (Carlingford) (max 6)
Alternate Tuesdays from 9 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Frustrated aviators can learn to fly/navigate/enjoy scenery on a large screen, from 22,000 airports, using a stable of 180 aircraft. No flying experience necessary Leader and Bookings: Keith Manwaring snrpilot18@gmail.com 9872 2907
Cinema Movies
ANYONE FOR MURDER? (Sth Wentworthville) (max 5)
Alternate Wednesdays 10:00 to 12:30
Using a selection of films of murder mysteries including sleuths such as Morse, Barnaby, Miss Marple & Hercule Poirot. Episodes of Endeavour, Lewis and Vera included. Leader and Bookings: Bev Cockburn bevco4@bigpond.com (preferred) 0408 489 804
History World
EXPLORING THE PAST (Sth Wentworthville) (max 5)
Alternate Thursdays 10:00 to 12:00
Video clips and discussion based on various famous people, including events of historic importance.
Leader and Bookings: Bev Cockburn bevco4@bigpond.com (preferred) 0408 489 804
HARBOURSIDE NORTH
Regional President: Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com
Regional Course Coordinator: Rosemarie Einstein einstein@starmer.net.au
Enquiries only 0412 043 377
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You may need to book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
CASTLE COVE: THE RESIDENCES
8B Deepwater Rd off Eastern Valley Way
Parking nearby
Venue Coordinator Barbara Boston barbboston2013@gmail.com (preferred) 9417 2967
TUESDAYS AT CASTLE COVE
Every Tuesday from 2 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 Interesting presentations on various topics each Tuesday. Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org or Barbara Boston barbboston2013@gmail.com (preferred) 9417 2967
Music Poetry
1.Lyrics quite contrary
2 Jul
A look at the often unlikely (and often unpleasant) origins and histories behind some of the best known traditional nursery rhymes and children’s songs.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Music
2.Music can change the world
9 Jul
Despite Beethoven’s assertion, it probably can’t, but music has often played a part in world events – sometimes for the better. A look at the stories behind some influential music.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Photography Art
3.Visual literacy in the age of the digital screen
16 Jul
The way we experience the moving image from the cinema to black and white tv to Netflix on a smartphone. Why personal photography has never been so important.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
History
4.Isfahan: Pearl of Islam
23 Jul
Under the Safavids (1500-1722) Persia entered a golden age with its capital, Isfahan, still one of the most dazzling and perfectly preserved cities of the Islamic world.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
History
5.When Britain bullied China
30 Jul
In early 19th century, Barbarians forced their way into the peaceful Celestial Empire. It was the beginning of a century of humiliation for China. How and why did this happen?
Presenter: Gordon Mar
History Famous People
6.Sir Douglas Mawson
6 Aug
Includes a new 50 minute DVD on Mawson; a distinguished Australian geologist and Antarctic explorer and his incredible survival when things went badly wrong in the frozen southern continent.
Presenter: Garry Lowder
History
7.Northbridge 13 Aug
The story of the suspension bridge and the development of the area.
Presenter: Ron Besdansky
Medical Matters History
8.Top medical advances in history and recent breakthroughs
20 Aug
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 Dassanayake
Astronomy
9.From a star to the New Yorker
27 Aug
As the morning/evening star, Venus is a conspicuous planet. Myths emerged to explain the constellations with a female identity/goddess to creation stories, fertility and victory.
Presenter: Robijn Alexanda
History Ancient
10.Ships of the Gods of ancient Egypt
3 Sep
The Nile River was the source of life of the Ancient Egyptians. Boats explained the concept of a sky boat that served the souls of the deceased in the afterlife.
Presenter: Robijn Alexanda
Travel
11.Most scenic railway journeys in the world
10 Sep
As train travel is getting more popular with the tourists, we look at the best scenic railway journeys in all the five continents.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayke
History
12.Tramways of the north shore
17 Sep
The development and construction of tramways on the North Shore.
Presenter: Ron Besdansky
History
13.Australia’s origins: how we got here 24 Sep
How did Australia’s origins link with the larger history of movements of human beings across the globe.
Presenter: Emeritus Prof John Gascoigne
Religion Architecture
14.The world’s greatest churches
1, 8, 15, 29 Oct, 5 Nov
DVD series about churches from early caves to the magnificent gothic churches of Europe. The buildings instruct, edify, and inspire their communities, using iconography, symbolism, and architecture as ultimate expressions of faith.
Presenter: Barbara Boston
History
15.The world of Turks and the Ottoman Empire 22 Oct
The Turkic nomads emerged from the Asian steppes and replaced the Arabs in controlling the Islamic world.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History China
16.Chinese coolies in France in WWI 12 Nov
A little-known chapter in the history of WWI when China sent thousands of coolies to work, and some to die, on the battlefields of Europe. A story untold, until today.
Presenter: Gordon Mar
Games
MAHJONG WESTERN STYLE
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 Join us for MahJong. We use the British rules, without scoring. The first player to get to MahJong wins. Everyone is welcome. Instruction is available. We follow the Mahjong Players Companion by Patricia A Thompson and Betty Maloney, available online.
Leader and Bookings Beverley Morrison bmorrison6@bigpond.com 0417 990 699
CHATSWOOD: DOUGHERTY COMMUNITY CENTRE
7 Victor St
Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Venue Coordinator Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Music Recorder
INTERMEDIATE RECORDER GROUP
Alternate Wednesdays from 26 June 10:30 to 12:30 This group has some experience playing descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders. This group uses Book 2 of the set tutor Learn to Play the Recorder by Brian Bonsor and plays 5-part music.
Leader and Bookings: Katie Lucy-Smith 0404 839 826
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP 1
Alternate Thursdays from 4 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Conversation beckons! Everything everywhere is changing and all at once! Cultural, economic, technological, climatic, medical, demographic, financial, scientific, historical, geopolitical, social, national and international. Come and discuss our brave new world!
Leader and Bookings: Jill Tukian jill.tukian@me.com (preferred) 0431 053 395
Music Recorder
ADVANCED RECORDER
Alternate Mondays from 8 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Treble, tenor, bass and descant players welcome. Basic sight reading is essential. The emphasis is on playing musically.
Leader: Bernie Williams bernardokw43@gmail.com
Bookings: Alice Wheelright aliswinn1@gmail.com (preferred) 0468 844 852
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP 2
Alternate Thursdays from 11 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: Chris Patten chrisfpatten@gmail.com (preferred) 0417 219 847
FRIDAYS AT CHATSWOOD
Fridays from 12 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Interesting presentations on various topics most Fridays.
Dance
1.Salsa plus more... ** NEW **
Every Friday from 12 Jul 1:00 to 2:30
Join us for some fun and fitness through dancing. No partners required. Start with gentle basic salsa, move at your own pace. Later explore other Latin/ballroom dances with DanceSport registered coach.
Leader: Nazni Farooq
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Travel
2.Impressions of Siberia and Russia 12 Jul
We share our experiences travelling from Vladivostok to St Petersburg, exploring the fascinating history, geography, culture, architecture, lifestyles and landscapes of Siberia and Russia.
Presenters: Kevin and Glenys Murray
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Science
3.Relativity: Einstein’s theory in everyday terms 19 Jul
Einstein’s relativity explained for the first time how the fabric of the universe is distorted under extreme conditions - at very high speeds and with strong gravity. Includes visual demonstrations.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Art History
4.Spiritualist-inspired artist between the wars 2 Aug
Spiritualism was embraced by artists around the world from the 1880s. It continues to delight and surprise today. Hear about spiritualist artists such as Kandinsky, Klee, Mondrian and Af Klint.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Photography
5.Twelve photographs that made Australia 16 Aug
Twelve photographs from the 1840s to the early 2000s show how our country, its people, the way we view the world, and how photographic technology has changed.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Evolution
6.The evolutionary origins of humans 23 Aug
The evolutionary origins of humans are determined by the latest fossil and genetic evidence.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Current Affairs
7.Voluntary assisted dying 30 Aug
How we die is important to us, our families, our associates and all involved in the process. The VAD Act gives us new options.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO KC
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Art
8.Caravaggio and the power of the cinematic image 13 Sep
How a radical painter of the 16th Century changed Italian Baroque Art and how understanding of his images can improve photography
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
Bookings: Robert Henderson robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001
Photography Art
9.Visual literacy in the age of the digital screen 20 Sep
Why personal photography has never been so important. The way we experience the moving image from the cinema to black and white TV to Netflix on a smartphone.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Philosophy Psychology
10.Physics of the mind: exploring our very essence 11 Oct
Our brain is made of atoms, but is consciousness a spark of something else? What are freewill and consciousness? Where does ethics come from? Can we construct our own morality?
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Literature
11.A saint from All Saints
18 Oct
A mystery story which embraces life in 19th and 20th century Australia, spanning adventure, commitment, courage, heroism, kinship, sickness and health and happy and sad times.
Presenter: Chris Schofield
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
Art
12.Sydney art exhibitions this summer
25 Oct
A preview of summer exhibitions in the major Sydney art galleries.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Science
13.A planet, its people and their rocky relationship
1 Nov
A geological reality check of three topics currently of wide interest in the context of climate change: sea level change; ocean acidification and renewable energy.
Presenter: Dr Garry Lowder
Bookings: Robert Henderson robkit.henderson@bigpond.com (preferred) 0419 223 001
Economics Ethics
14.Money laundering
8 Nov
What is money laundering and what is the reported financial impact on both the Australian and the global economy?
Hear from a professional “anti-money-laundering specialist”.
Presenter: Elizabeth Goodbody
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
History
15.Fiji – an insider’s perspective (part 1)
22 Nov
Fiji’s past through the early cannibal and tribal warfare days, arrival of the missionaries, white settlers, and the early colonial days.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Current Affairs History
16.Fiji – an insider’s perspective (part 2)
29 Nov
The final colonial days, independence followed by political upheavals and the rebuilding. What does the future hold?
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
TUESDAYS AT CHATSWOOD
Tuesdays from 16 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Interesting presentations on various topics most Tuesdays.
History
1.Captain Cook Graving Dock 16 Jul
The construction of the dock was the second largest engineering project in Australia - even larger than the Harbour Bridge.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
History Ancient
2.Pergamon: ancient city in western Turkey
23 Jul
After the death of Alexander the Great, a line of kings created one of the most dynamic Hellenistic kingdoms in the Mediterranean; its capital enriched with temples, theatre and gymnasiums.
Presenter: Michael Birrell
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
3. Rhyme and reason: political satire and nursery rhymes
6 Aug
Author, Susan Ackroyd, shows how nursery rhymes that were formed as political comments in the medieval ages, are still cited today without awareness of the past political comments.
Presenter: Susan Ackroyd
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes
rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
History Ancient
4. Dougga: A Roman city in western Tunisia
13 Aug
In Roman times the city became an important metropolis enriched with all the attributes of a provincial city. Due to its isolated location, many of these monuments survive remarkably well.
Presenter: Michael Birrell
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Art
5. Vincent van Gogh
20 Aug
Although today Van Gogh is one of the most liked artists, he sold only one painting in his life. We shall view his paintings and discuss his life.
Presenter: Reinhard Ronnebeck
Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursulasch@bigpond.com (preferred) 9955 7628
History
6. Isfahan: Pearl of Islam
10 Sep
Under the Safavids (1500-1722) Persia entered a golden age with its capital, Isfahan, still one of the most dazzling and perfectly preserved cities of the Islamic world.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Science
7. The evolution of our universe 24 Sep
From the Big Bang to the present, including the appearance of life on earth.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Music
8. Favourite opera singers
1 Oct
Anne and Nora have been listening to classical music all their lives. They will share their favourite singers with you, and tell you why they think those singers are special.
Presenters: Anne Richardson and Nora Hinchen
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Science
9. How DNA made you and me 22 Oct
DNA is the blueprint for all living beings. How does ATGC build our body’s features and behaviours?
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com (preferred) 0400 181 091
Music
10. Rossini: Prodigy, celebrity and wit 12, 19 Nov
Spanning the years from Beethoven to Wagner, Rossini was not only a great operatic composer, but also a celebrated bon-vivant, chef and raconteur, whose parties were sought-after occasions.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com (preferred) 0423 947 411
Language German REVISITING GERMAN (max 12) ** NEW **
Alternate Thursdays from 8 Aug 10:30 to 12:30
A course for learners who studied German in the past and would like to refresh their speaking skills. Focuses on conversation about everyday topics. Materials supplied.
Leader and Bookings: Bettina Boss bossbettina3@gmail.com (preferred) 0466 979 460
Language German GERMAN FOR POST BEGINNERS (max 12)
Alternate Thursdays from 8 Aug 1:00 to 3:00
An ongoing course for learners who completed a similar course recently. Focuses on reading short texts and discussing them. Materials supplied.
Leader and Bookings: Bettina Boss bossbettina3@gmail.com (preferred) 0466 979 460
GREENWICH: THE BAYTREE RETIREMENT RESORT
6 Ulonga Ave (Off Innes Rd) Wheelchair access, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
TUESDAYS AT GREENWICH
Every Tuesday from 16 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Interesting presentations on various topics each Tuesday.
History Culture
1. A fateful feast: The final meal on RMS Titanic 16 Jul
The Titanic provides an exquisite microcosm of the Edwardian world, illuminating its strict class distinctions, its obsession with etiquette and fashion, and its love of fine food.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Famous People Medical Matters
2. The Sackler story 23 Jul
How Valium, OxyContin, philanthropy, art galleries, museums, laboratories, lies, addictions, death, court cases and millions of dollars make up the story of the Sackler family.
Presenter: Dr Rosemarie Einstein
Bookings: Dianna Brooks dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
History Australia
3. Twelve photographs that made Australia
30 Jul
These photographs from the 1840s to the early 2000s show how our country, its people and the way we view the world have changed.
Presenter: Adj Prof Laurie Wilson
Bookings: Dianna Brooks dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Legal Human Rights
4. First nations people: over-represented in the criminal justice system
6 Aug
We will explore how this has come to pass, what the present situation is and how things might be improved in the future.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO KC
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
Science
5. A history of the future
13 Aug
For centuries, people have attempted to predict how we will live in the future. Many predictions have been stunningly accurate and others just amusing and wide of the mark.
Presenter: Laurie Wison
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
History Ancient
6. Cities in the sands: Palmyra ‘Bride of the Desert’ 20 Aug
The colonnaded streets, oriental temples, and caravanserais of Palmyra bear witness to a caravan city that considered itself a worthy rival of Rome.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
History Ancient
7. Cities in the sands: ‘Petra Rose-Red City’ 27 Aug
For centuries Petra, with its stunning rock-hewn temples and tombs, remained hidden from the west before emerging as one of the greatest cities of the ancient world.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
History Maritime
8. Stories from the Maritime Museum 3 Sep
1. The Halvorsens: excellent builders of boats and racewinning yachts and supporters of our war efforts in WWII.
2. Women Sailors: Young and old, from Australia and overseas.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Current Affairs
9. What is democracy really about?
10, 17 September
With the US elections in November and a dangerous sociopath and fan of dictators, a possible winner, is it time to consider what democracy aims to achieve?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
History
10. Spymasters and codebreakers of WWII 24 Sep
The career of Leo Marks and his uncanny ability to crack ciphers. He sent many spies to Europe - not all happy endings! Meanwhile Australians were busy in the Pacific.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
History
11. Arthur Phillip 1 Oct
From Ship’s Boy to Admiral, farmer, global adventurer, spy and our first Governor. His mysterious death still engages and intrigues the historians.
Presenters: Geoff Davidson
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
Science
12. Iconic Australian inventions of our time 8 Oct
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
Bookings: Dianna Brooks dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Literature
13. Edna O’Brien: Love and evil 15 Oct
Often said to be Ireland’s greatest living writer, famous for The Country Girls, Edna O’Brien has recently written about some of the world’s most horrific events.
Presenter: Jenny Rudd O’Neill
Bookings: Dianna Brookes dianna.brookes@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8031
Science
14. Australian Skeptics’ scientific investigations 22 Oct
The Skeptics offer a large prize for real evidence of the paranormal or new science. We have investigated many dubious claims, activities and conspiracies, many challenging the laws of physics.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
History
15. Fiji – an insider’s perspective (part 1) 29 Oct
Fiji’s past through the early cannibal and tribal warfare days, arrival of the missionaries, white settlers, and the early colonial days.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Bookings: Kate Caro kxcaro@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8056
Music
16. Favourite opera singers 5 Nov
Anne and Nora have been listening to classical music all their lives. They will share their favourite singers with you, and tell you why they think those singers are special.
Presenters: Anne Richardson and Nora Hinchen
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
History
17.Historic Anglo-French global rivalry
12 Nov
The Anglo-French rivalry spilled out of Europe leading to colonial expansion with deadly consequences for people in Asia, Africa, North America and the Caribbean.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch mvermeesch7@gmail.com (preferred) 9433 8048
Technology
18.The fifth dimension: Cyberspace. Cold War to Code War
19 Nov
Historically conflicts have been fought on land, sea, in air and more recently space. Wars are now also being fought in cyberspace. What does this mean for us?
Presenter: Dr Jennifer Sansom
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
History
19.Fiji – an insider’s perspective (part 2)
26 Nov
The final colonial days, independence followed by political upheavals and the rebuilding. What does the future hold?
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
Food History
20.Feeding body and soul; From Hoosh to Beef Wellington
3 Dec
1. The midwinter celebration to commemorate the winter solstice is an invented tradition unique to Antarctica. 2. A historical overview of how Christmas is celebrated at the South Pole.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Bookings: Marianne Thiering mariannethiering@gmail.com (preferred) 0423 397 343
HUNTERS HILL: C A FAIRLAND HALL
14 Church St parking nearby Venue Coordinator Judy Harris judyaharris222@gmail.com (preferred) 0447 194 510
MONDAYS AT HUNTERS HILL
Every Monday from 8 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Interesting presentations on various topics each Monday.
Bookings: https://sydneyu3a.org OR Judy Harris judyaharris222@gmail.com (preferred) 0447 194 510
History
1.A brief history of modern Ireland and Northern Ireland
8 Jul
Why has a small island helped populate many countries, including Australia, over the centuries? A brief summary of modern Ireland and Northern Ireland’s complex history after 1920.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Legal Human Rights
2.Voluntary assisted dying 15 Jul
VAD is now legalised in all Australian States with safeguards in place for all involved in the process for legal, ethical and social reasons.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO KC
History
3.Mary Wollstonecraft 22 Jul
This writer and early feminist from the 18th century revisits the planet to tell us about her tumultuous life and those of her daughters.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Music
4.Why our favourite classical singers are special 29 Jul
Our speakers will share their favourite singers, including Dimitri Hvonrostovsky, Jose Diego Florez and a few surprises.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and Anne Richardson
Medical Matters
5.Drugs that affect mood and behaviour (part 1)
5 Aug
Learn how alcohol, cannabis and benzodiazepines (Valiumlike drugs) work in the body and the dangers associated with their use.
Presenter: Dr Rosemarie Einstein
Medical Matters
6.Drugs that affect mood and behaviour (part 2) 12 Aug
‘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: Dr Rosemarie Einstein
Drama
7.A water view to die for – David Williamson 19 Aug
David Williamson, Australia’s best known playwright, accurately tells the quirky ambitions of Australians, especially real estate and death choices.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen
Famous People
8.Nikola Tesla 26 Aug
Discover the life and accomplishments of the engineer who contributed to the design of the modern alternating current (AC) electricity supply system.
Presenter: Prof Don Napper
Travel History
9.Liguria and Piedmont: North west Italy
2, 9 Sep
Their history (especially their part in the unification of Italy), their capitals (Genoa and Turin), the towns of Asti, Alba and the Italian Riviera (cinqueterra), festivals, cuisine and famous wine.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint OAM
Travel
10.Charles Darwin 16 Sep
Darwin’s book, On the Origin of Species, first published 150 years ago, is one of the greatest breakthroughs in scientific history.
Presenter: Ian Burnet
Government Services
11.Service NSW
23 Sep
Information on services provided by Service NSW, especially the Savings Finder Program, which includes rebates and savings.
Presenter: Giselle Coelho
Science
12.Life in colour: How animals see the world
30 Sep
For us, the world can be a stunning place but what is it like for those members of the animal kingdom and what function does colour serve for them?
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Travel Culture
13.The temples of Java
7 Oct
How Hinduism and Buddhism came to Java, The history of the massive temples complexes of Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple and Prambanan, the largest Hindu temple outside of India.
Presenter: Ian Burnett
Exercise Health
14.Move to improve
14 Oct
Staying strong, healthy and active is necessary for an independent lifestyle, regardless of age, ability or circumstances. We all can do something to achieve realistic health and fitness goals.
Presenter: Sally Castell
Health
15.Hearing loss and hearing aids
21 Oct
Why do people mumble? Hear from an audiologist about innovative technology to hear better in noisy environments.
Presenter: Damian O’Connor
History Geography
16.St Kilda archipelago
28 Oct
Primitive Gaelic speaking Celts inhabited a group of islands off Scotland until 1930, when some emigrated to St Kilda, Victoria. It is the only UNESCO World Heritage site in the UK.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
Science Medical Matters
17.Frontiers of medical imaging
4 Nov
X-rays, CT (computer tomography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), nuclear medicine, PET (positron resonance imaging). Our speaker was involved in important developments for medical ultrasound, in Sydney.
Presenter: Adj Prof. Laurie Wilson
Famous People Medical Matters
18.The Sacklers
11 Nov
How Valium, Oxycontin, philanthropy, art galleries, laboratories, lies, addiction, death, court cases and millions of dollars make up the story of the Sackler family.
Presenter: Dr Rosemarie Einstein
Science Current Affairs
19.AI technology
18 Nov
Should we be concerned about our increasing use of technology? Are we becoming too dependent on the internet, the web, social media and artificial intelligence?
Presenter: Dr Jennifer Sansom
Science Current Affairs
20.AI: The fifth dimension: Cyberspace
25 Nov
AI is increasingly intertwined with humans. Vast resources are committed to AI. Will it be friend or foe?
Presenter: Dr Jennifer Sansom
Events
21.u3a Christmas party and carols
25 Nov
With popular music from the 50’s to the 70‘s
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 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Group discussion enhances our appreciation of the book read. New members welcome.
Leader: Janice Gentle
Bookings: Vanessa Follett 0490 652 292
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 9 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 12 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 Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Annika Tults annikatults@gmail.com 0404 254 009
MONDAYS AT THE ART GALLERY
Every Monday from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
Interesting presentations on various topics each Monday. No booking required
Biology
1.Poisonous stings
1 Jul
A look at some of the more dangerous creatures that are found in and around Australia, including snakes, spiders and water creatures.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Legal Matters
2.Voluntary assisted dying 8 Jul
How we die is important to us. The Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2022 (NSW) gives us new options and the Act’s creation and operation will be discussed.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO KC
Medical Matters
3.Stroke – a time-critical emergency 15 Jul
If the treatment is initiated in time, 85% of strokes can be treated effectively. Prompt recognition and action is vital. Get the latest update.
Presenter: Dr Christine Lopacinski
History
4.Weapons of mass destruction 22, 29 Jul
The story of making and dropping of atomic bombs over the cities Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the subsequent nuclear weapons race.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Politics Current Affairs
5.What is democracy all about?
5, 12 Aug
With the US elections pending and mini-dictators moving some European countries away from democracy, it is timely to analyze how this political experiment that was born less than 200 years ago, is coping.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Aviation
6.Flight to resilience – navigating life’s challenges 19 Aug
A journey of resilience, drawing from my experience as an air force and Qantas pilot. The power of remaining calm in the face of adversity and the importance of preparation.
Presenter: Richard de Crespigny AM
History
7.Mozart at the movies
26 Aug
Mozart’s compositions provide sound tracks for many films. This presentation contains movie scenes, with episodes from Mozart’s life and extracts from his letters when he wrote those works.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen
Science
8.Science is in ALL things
2 Sep
What have mauve, Newton, beetle eyes, X-rays, seances got in common? They’ve all featured on RN’s ‘The Science Show.’ Is there a future for thought-provoking legacy listening?
Presenter: Sharon Carleton
Logic
9.Logic and reasoning: The path to knowledge
9 Sep
Scientists, doctors, magistrates and jurists all share the need to make critical decisions. This presentation will describe how deduction and induction provides the confidence we seek.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Geography History
10.St Kilda Archipelago
16 Sep
The history of a group of islands off the north west of Scotland. The population lived there for thousands of years as Celts until evacuation in 1930.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
Science
11.Colour
23 Sep
What is colour? How have we analysed it from both scientific and artistic point of view, and how is colour created in nature, and in our attempts to imitate nature.
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
Famous People
12.Greg Mortimer
30 Sep
Greg and Tim McCartney Snape were the first Australians to climb Mt Everest. Greg has had a career as an adventurer and businessman, taking people to the ends of the world.
Presenter: Greg Mortimer OAM
Music
13.Favourite singers
14 Oct
Anne and Nora have been listening to classical music all their lives. They will share their favourite singers with you, and tell you why they think those singers are special.
Presenters: Anne Richardson and Nora Hinchen
Inventions
14.Australian innovation: Beyond Hills hoist, Vegemite, Victa
21 Oct
A surprising range of Australian ideas had changed our lives and spread around the world. Innovation continues today.
Presenter: Debbie Rudder
Famous People
15.Lucy Osburn: Controversial founder of Sydney Hospital
28 Oct
Hear how she founded modern “Nightingale” nursing in Australia and why Florence Nightingale disowned her.
Presenter: Dr Judith Godden
Famous People
16.Anne Bronte: First whistleblower on the abuse of women
4 Nov
Anne Bronte, a sickly consumptive, stood up against the outcry from the pillars of Victorian patriarchal society, about forced marriage and ill-treatment of wives.
Presenter: Catherine Whittaker
Sociology
17.Is social work practice a reflection of recent societal change?
11 Nov
Some recent significant changes in Australia will be linked to the joys and challenges of preparing students for the workforce.
Presenters: Louise Bain and Eva Benjamin
Travel History
18.Liguria and Piedmont
18, 25 Nov
Ligura and Piedmont are regions in northwest Italy. This presentation covers aspects of their history, as well as visiting cities, towns and villages, plus their festivals and cuisine.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
MOSMAN: THE GARRISON
13 Spit Road (enter from Punch Street)
Wheelchair access, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Jenny Rudd O’Neill
Writing
WRITING YOUR MEMOIR (max 15)
Alternate Thursdays from 12 Sep 10:30 to 12:30
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. We are a friendly, supportive group.
Leader: Jenny Rudd O’Neill jennyruddoneill@gmail.com
Bookings: Pamela Tilbrook pamelatilbrook@optusnet.com.au (preferred) 0413 377 212
THE MANORS OF MOSMAN RETIREMENT VILLAGE
6 Hale Rd, off Military Rd Wheelchair access Venue Coordinator Margaret Kropman mkropman@optusnet.com.au (preferred) 0434 839 172
Discussion Group Current Affairs TOPICAL ISSUES DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Wednesdays from 24 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 30 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
Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com
WEDNESDAYS AT MOSMAN SQUARE
Every Wednesday from 7 Aug 10:00 to 12:00
Interesting presentations on various topics each Wednesday.
No booking required
Medical matters
1. Human gut – the ultimate grinding machine 7 Aug
There is no better grinding machine in the world than our gut. The harsh food we eat is pounded, nutrients extracted and the waste expelled. See how this is done.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Religion
2. 26 Extraordinary years at the ABC 14 Aug
In over 1700 programs on religion for the ABC, Rachael explored everything from the sublime to the ridiculous and from archbishops to aliens. There was never a dull moment.
Presenter: Rachael Kohn
Art
3. Caravaggio and the power of the cinematic image 21 Aug
How a radical painter of the 16th Century changed Italian Baroque Art and how understanding of his images can improve photography.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
Photography Art
4. Visual literacy in the age of the digital screen
28 Aug
Why personal photography has never been so important. The way we experience the moving image from the cinema to black and white TV to Netflix on a smartphone.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
Energy
5. Energy resources
4, 11 Sep
Renewables, fossil fuel, nuclear energy, hydro power. How is Australia tackling these issues?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Geography History
6. Great river systems on our planet
18 Sep
Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilisations they pass through.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Science Medical Matters
7. Quackery – a brief history of the worst ways to cure everything
25 Sep
The golden age of quacksalvers - a historical look at quackery during the Middle Ages and the toxic treatments that these medical-peddlers offered, including early surgical procedures and leech-therapy.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
History Religion
8. Religion’s effects on European society and politics (1)
2 Oct
Pre-Christian European societies emerged from religious cults through to worship of Greek, Roman and Scandinavian deities before Christianity became the religion of the Roman empire.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History Religion
9. Religion’s effects on European society and politics (2)
9 Oct
Philosophical and political differences led to turbulent times in Europe. Religious wars tore societies apart resulting in the loss of millions of lives. Europe was now ready for the Enlightenment.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History Religion
10.Religion’s effects on European society and politics (3)
16 Oct
Christianity had a profound influence on art, architecture, and music. European trade and colonisation spread Christianity outside Europe. Christians frequently demonstrated intolerance to other faiths and cultures.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History Culture
11.A brief history of gold
23 Oct
Why have humans been besotted, for over 5,000 years, with gold? What is it about the metal that has driven people to go to such extreme ends to acquire it?
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Geology
12.A planet, its people and their rocky relationship
30 Oct
We owe our very existence to special features of our planet and its dynamic behaviour. We take a geological reality check of sea level change, ocean acidification, and renewable energy.
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Science
13.The world in a grain of sand
6 Nov
We look at beach and desert sand and how it has transformed our world, including the hidden social and environmental costs of sand mining, together with why Australia is selling sand to Saudi Arabia.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
History
14.Olympe de Gouges – Humanist, feminist, educationalist, enlightenment thinker
13 Nov
Olympe de Gouges was guillotined for sedition in 1793. Why was she nominated twice to receive a place in The Pantheon and a bust of her placed in the French National Assembly in 2016?
Presenter: Chris Serrano
Ethics
15.Voluntary assisted dying
20 Nov
The legal history of voluntary dying will be discussed, leading to the operation of the new Voluntary Assisted Dying Act 2022 (NSW) that began on 28 November 2023.
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery AO KC
Science Religion
16.The science of religion
27 Nov
Examining theories and evidence, from evolution and the cognitive sciences, that seek to explain the experience of religious belief as a purely naturalistic phenomenon, originating entirely in the human brain.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
WILLOUGHBY: HYEGROVE DISPLAY SUITE
44 Penshurst St
Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator Rohan Kirby rohan@hyegrove.com.au (preferred) 0475 775 000
FRIDAYS AT WILLOUGHBY
Alternate Fridays from 5 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 Interesting presentations on various topics every second Friday.
Bookings: Rohan Kirby rohan@hyegrove.com.au (preferred) 0475 775 000
History Science
1.One planet, one human race, the Age of Discovery
5 Jul
A brief look back at the last 13.5 billion years, the formation of the planet, the evolution of the human race and the Age of Discovery.
Presenter: Dr John Walsh
Current Affairs
2.China: an ancient civilization’s rise to become a superpower
19 Jul
China is the world’s oldest continuing civilisation. It still maintains fascinating cultural traditions as it takes on the world.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History Australia
3.Australians in WWI and WWII
2 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: Dr John Walsh
History Australia
4.Treasures in Sydney Churches
30 Aug
Objects employed for ritual use and religious devotion in services reveal some surprising works of art.
Presenter: Robijn Alexanda
Health
5.Brain health
13 Sep
A wellness expert explores how to maintain brain health. What can be done to prevent a decline of cognitive function?
Presenter: Gayle Nelson
History Famous People
6.Nikola Tesla - Brilliant engineer but tragic eccentric 27 Sep
Discover the life and accomplishments of the engineer who contributed to the design of the modern alternating current (AC) electricity supply system.
Presenter: Emeritus Prof Don Napper
Health
7.Aged care in Australia
11 Oct
What is aged care, how does it work, and how is it changing?
Presenter: Cameron Kirby
Science Environment
8.Why does carbon dioxide cause global warming?
25 Oct
Trace amounts of the greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide, cause climate change, whereas the far more prevalent atmospheric molecules that we breathe, oxygen and nitrogen do not. Why is it so?
Presenter: Emeritus Prof Don Napper
Science Current Affairs
9.Artificial Intelligence - past, present and future
8 Nov
An easy-to-follow introduction to the state of AI in popular culture and the real world, including the arguments about its potential benefits, risks and what the future may hold.
Presenter: Jeff Burgess
OUT THERE
Outdoors Eating out THIRD FRIDAY LUNCH GROUP
Third Friday of each month from 19 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
NORTHERN BEACHES
Regional President: Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com Enquiries only
Regional Course Coordinator: TBA
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
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 1 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 24 Jul 11:00 to 1:00 Washaway Room Level 3
A wide range of authors and their books are discussed. These include The Second Sleep by Robert Harris, Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver, Small things like These by Claire Keegan, The Queen is Dead by Stan Grant and The Promise by Damon Galgut.
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 9 Aug 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 5 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.
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 26 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
1.Harems of the sultans
26 Jul
Cindy is back, this time to tell us about the Harems of the Sultans. Learn about the treacherous politics of the harem, hotbeds of jealousies and intrigue. This will be fun!
Speaker: Cindy Davies
Politics
2.What is democracy really about?
30 August
Democracy, what is it? Was Putin’s election democratic? What about the USA elections coming up? What about our own? Come and find out from our own Peter Nixon.
Speaker: Peter Nixon
Medical Matters
3.Medical matters and our body
27 Sep
How are you feeling? Our speaker Dr John Walsh will help us decode the mysteries of medicine and our body, what it’s made of, what can go wrong and how to treat it.
Speaker: Dr John Walsh
Famous People
4.Remarkable characters of Sydney 25 Oct
Graham Sims recounts the incredible stories of Bea Miles and “The Eternity Man” Arthur Stace. Two remarkable characters of Sydney who Graham has met and had personal encounters.
Speaker: Graham Sims
History Maritime
5.European search for the Great Southland 29 Nov
Geoff Davidson will tell us about some of the myths and lesser known facts that led to the European discovery and spectacular development of our once far off land. Speaker: Geoff Davidson
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 2 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
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 1 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
Berry Hall
We are a happy group of painters who paint in their medium of choice, yet still dabble in other mediums. Newcomers are welcome but there is a waiting list.
Leader: June Rodden june@rodden.net 9402 4550
Bookings: Narelle Harvey neli1@bigpond.com 0447 865 657
Discussion Group Movies
MONDAY AT THE MOVIES - MAM
First Monday every month from 1 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 and Bookings: Liz Boase lizzyboasebruce@gmail.com 0413 736 331
Current Affairs
TOPICS OF OUR TIMES (max 25)
Alternate Tuesdays from 2 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
Yoga
YOGA AND RELAXATION
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 10:15 to 11:45
Lakeview Hall
Every class consists of basic yoga practice, breathing and deep relaxation which will help improve joint mobility, increase muscle flexibility and bone density.
Leader: Maryanne Deans Kolek
Bookings: Liz Kelly liz@lizkelly.id.au
Current Affairs
HISTORY OF MORAL THOUGHT Thursdays 11 and 18 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (2 sessions) Lakeview Hall
Some thoughts on how our views about what is right and what is wrong have changed over the centuries.
Leader: Peter Nixon Bookings not required
Language French ADVANCED FRENCH
Alternate Fridays from 12 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Berry Hall
Advanced conversation in French based on a text and tape.
Leader: Wendy Clark scorpio39@bigpond.com 9913 9807
Bookings: Maureen Black maureengb192@gmail.com 9982 7149
NARRABEEN NORTH: NARRABEEN BAPTIST CHURCH
13 Grenfell Ave (cnr Wakehurst Parkway) wheelchair access, parking onsite Venue Coordinator Barbara Bohm jeddasam1@bigpond.com 9913 3481
Music Ukulele
UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS
Every Tuesday from 2 Jul 11:45 to 1:00 (except school holidays) Level 1, Room 2
This course is for rank beginners. If you have always wanted to play a musical instrument, this is the place for you. You will learn the main chords, have great fun playing and singing. Come along and have a go!
Leader and Bookings: Felicity Davis felicity@sciencefilms.com.au 0414 470 644
Music Guitar
ACOUSTIC GUITAR GROUP
First three Wednesdays every month from 3 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 are needed. Bring own guitar and music stand. Due to popularity, places are limited. Leader and Bookings: Claudie Moffatt cmof5582@bigpond.net.au 0411270037
Music Performance
THE 3RD AGE ROCK ORCHESTRA
First three Wednesdays every month from 3 Jul 2:00 to 5:00 Auditorium
The orchestra plays classic rock music with singers and postbeginners on all instruments. Basic skills with following chord charts are needed. Reading music is an advantage. The orchestra performs a few times a year. At present there are vacancies for strings, brass and woodwind.
Leader and Bookings: Harvey Broadbent 3rdagerockorchestra@gmail.com 0414 486 675
Art Painting
THURSDAY ART GROUP
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 1:00 to 4:00 Education Centre GF
For those who enjoy putting paint on canvas or paper via your preferred medium join our relaxed group. With varying levels of skill, we work on our own projects and commonly share techniques, ideas and information which is welcomed by all.
Leader: Alf Silvester a.silvester@optusnet.com.au 0493 043 111
Bookings: Barbara Tuna 0407 513 045 text only
Music Singing
SINGING FOR THE JOY OF SINGING
Alternate Fridays from 5 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 POST BEGINNERS/INTERMEDIATE Alternate Fridays from 5 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Education Centre GF
Easy going course suitable for people with a basic knowledge of French Grammar. Not suitable for beginners or for people who have not opened a French book since school. Books used are Easy French Reader by R. de Roussy de Sales (3rd edition) and French Made Simple by Pamela Rose Haze.
Leader and Bookings: Olivia Kesby olivia.kesby@gmail.com 0401 303 472
Philosophy
HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY 5
Alternate Tuesdays from 9 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 I (max 16)
Alternate Fridays from 12 Jul 9:30 to 11:30 (8 sessions)
Education Centre GF
Continuation of Latin Beginners Course 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 9780 19912264)
Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170
Philosophy
HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY 6
Alternate Fridays from 12 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Auditorium
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 INTERMEDIATE I (max 10)
Alternate Fridays from 12 Jul 12:30 to 2:30 (8 sessions)
Education Centre GF
Continuation course (for 2024 students) covering Classical Latin grammar and vocabulary through exercises and readings with the inclusion of Latin literary texts. Texts: The Oxford Latin Course Part 1 and The Oxford Latin Course Part II 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 2 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. Class currently full, new players will be added to a waiting list. Leader: Bob Hunter 9970 7352
Bookings: Jill Barrett jillb45@hotmail.com
NEWPORT COMMUNITY CENTRE
11-13 The Boulevard wheelchair access, parking nearby
No public or school holidays
Venue Coordinator Helen Howes helsim@internode.on.net 0424 464 047
Yoga
YOGA AND RELAXATION
Every Monday from 22 Jul 12:30 to 2:00
Main Hall
Every class consists of basic yoga practice, breathing and deep relaxation which will help improve joint mobility, increase muscle flexibility and bone density.
Teacher: Maryanne Deans Kolek
Leader and Bookings: Susan Barnard susanbarnard@iinet.net.au
Art Painting
ART CLASS WITH KAYE DEXTER
Every Monday from 22 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
Drama
DRAMA ACTIVITIES
Alternate Wednesdays from 24 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 and Bookings: Helen Rosenkranz helenrosenkranz@gmail.com 0405 060 727
Qigong
QIGONG
Every Wednesday (except first Wednesday every month) from 24 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.
Leader and Bookings: Penny Auburn penauburn@gmail.com
Games Table Tennis
TABLE TENNIS (max 40)
Every Thursday from 25 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: Richard Hughes
Bookings: Ron Heald and Angela Gollmer ra.u3a.tt@gmail.com
Language French INTERMEDIATE FRENCH
Alternate Wednesdays from 31 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: John Benjamin johnsbenjamin27@gmail.com
TOPICS OF INTEREST
First Wednesday every month from 7 Aug 1:30 to 3:30
Main Hall
Come and join a friendly group to experience separate presentations by people who are experts in or have enthusiasm for their subjects, covering a wide variety of topics from science, history, travel, the arts, social justice and some quirky topics.
Leader: Margaret White marg.white@me.com 0416 182 393
Bookings not required.
Drama
1.Drama! Drama! Drama!
7 Aug
An afternoon of murder, bloodshed, jealousy and rage! How Greek Tragedy has shaped the drama we enjoy today.
Presenter: Diana Pheils
Medical Matters Music
2.Imagine: surgeon/author/musician
4 Sep
This will be your opportunity to talk to a real live vascular surgeon and novelist about his two passions. Come with curiosity and questions. Be prepared to sing!
Presenter: Richard Harris
2 Oct School Holidays – Hall not available
History Local
3.History of Royal Agricultural Society
6 Nov
Country comes to the city. How the Easter Show has developed over 200 years. Show bags, side shows, hot scones, beautiful plants and animals!
Presenter: Suzanne Upton Archivist RAS
Music
4.Celtic music and musicians
4 Dec
Celtic music is a grouping of music genres that evolved out of the folk music of the Celtic people of Northwestern Europe. Hear the history behind Celtic Music, a performance by 7 players and a special afternoon tea!
Presenter: Graham Spindler
NEWPORT: PITTWATER
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Cnr Robertson Rd and Ocean Ave parking nearby, not public holidays
Venue Coordinator Janeska Ahmed janeska.ahmed@gmail.com
Music Recorder RECORDER CONSORT
Every Wednesday from 3 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: Janeska Ahmed janeska.ahmed@gmail.com
NORTH CURL CURL COMMUNITY CENTRE
Cnr Griffin and Abbott Rds wheelchair access, parking onsite, not public holidays
Venue Coordinator Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au
Exercise
BALANCE ‘N’ BONES EXERCISE
Every Monday from 1 Jul 9:30 to 10:20 (Easy), 10:30 to 11:20 (Advanced)
No class on 8 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre
Every Friday from 5 Jul 9:30 to 10:20 (Easy), 10:30 to 11:20 (Advanced)
No class on 12 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre 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
Every Monday from 1 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
No class on 8 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre Basic Bridge knowledge required.
Leader: Ruth Buchanan ruth.buchanan@bigpond.com
Bookings: Leigh Hudson leighandrichard@gmail.com
Games Cards
CARD GAMES 500
Alternate Tuesdays from 2 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 and Bookings: Wolfgang Buschhaus wbuschhaus@gmail.com
Cinema
MOVIE SERIES: PRESENTER’S PICK
Alternate Tuesdays from 2 Jul 1:00 to 4:00 Details of the movies being presented will be in the Northern Beaches u3a Monthly Newsletter. Suggestions from our audience will be welcome.
Leader: Kerrie Sanders kersand@bigpond.com
Bookings not required
THURSDAYS AT NORTH CURL CURL
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
No class on 11 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre 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 4 Jul
4 Jul: An illustrated talk and performance by Harvey with musicians from the Third Age Rock Orchestra entitled ‘Singing The Blues’.
Presenter: Harvey Broadbent
1 Aug: Cuba in 2017 seemed like entering a cultural time warp kept afloat by music. Graham met with musical groups right across the island, sharing the joy of music that lifts its people above material deprivation.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
5 Sep: Music can change the world: Despite Beethoven’s assertion, it probably can’t, but music has often played a part in world events – sometimes for the better. A look at the stories behind some influential music.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
3 Oct: John and his Jazz Band “Just in Time” are a small group of experienced local musicians playing an eclectic mix of traditional jazz and American songbook.
Presenter: John McDougall
7 Nov: Lyrics quite contrary: A look at the often unlikely (and often unpleasant) origins and histories behind some of the best known traditional nursery rhymes and children’s songs.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
5 Dec: Music session and Christmas lunch Eve will introduce an eclectic mix of jazz, rock and musical theatre, mainly from the 40s, 50s and 60s. This will be followed by a shared lunch at approx. 11.45.
Presenter: Eve Lane
Theatre
2.Theatre plays
18 Jul: Kitchen sink drama
15 Aug: Harold Pinter
19 Sep: More plays of the sixties
17 Oct: Tom Stoppard
21 Nov: Caryl Churchill and Edward Bond
These talks continue the story of modern theatre through the 60’s and beyond, highlighting some of the most influential playwrights of our time
Presenter: Diana Pheils
Law
3.Seniors rights and services
25 Jul
This service supports older people with free independent and confidential telephone advice, advocacy and legal services.
Presenter: Deb Denman
Biography Sport
4.A Spanish love affair
8 Aug
Not wanting to spend the winter in cold, dark and wet London, probably behind a typewriter, Susan hopped on a train to Madrid. This is where the story really takes off.
Presenter: Susan Joy Alexander
Biography Military
5.Life on the line
22 Aug
Our guest speaker is a veteran of the RAN who saw multiple deployments to East Timor and Bougainville. Tamara will tell us about her experiences and passion to help those in need.
Presenter: Tamara Sloper Harding OAM
Computers
6.Identity misuse
29 Aug
Aim of the session is to strengthen people’s cyber resilience and arm them with the skills they need to stay secure online. Learn how to spot a scam, run a credit check, and create strong passwords.
Presenter: Alicia Anderson
Australia
7.History of lighthouses
12 Sep
The history and development of lighthouses around the world, plus a look at some lighthouses found along the NSW coast. We then study the location and uses of shipping navigation lights within Sydney harbour.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Health
8.History of physiotherapy
26 Sep
Physiotherapy has developed since the days of massagegirls to a now highly skilled profession, with a wide range of applications.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
Law
9.What is a Justice of the Peace
10 Oct
Learn the fascinating history of the office of JP, how they provide an essential community service as volunteers and form an integral part of the social and legal history of many Commonwealth countries today.
Presenter: Andrew Miles
Sport
10.Female divers
24 Oct
Stories of underwater caves, sharks and shipwrecks, with an emphasis on the exploits of women divers who have “boldly gone where no man has gone before”, to push back the boundaries of scientific knowledge and discovery.
Presenter: David Strike
Energy
11.Renewable energy and electric cars
31 Oct
Provides an overview of the many available energy sources around the world which could benefit us all. Attached to this presentation is a section overviewing today’s electric cars.
Presenter: Ross Clements
Food
12.Feeding and watering our future world
14 Nov
There will be more food eaten in the next 50 years than in the whole history of humanity (Prof Megan Clark). The challenges, successes and misconceptions of providing global food security from an Australian perspective.
Presenter: Chris Russell AM
Technology computers
13.Our increasing use of technology
28 Nov
The internet, the web, social media and artificial intelligence are creating a worrying future for many. Are we becoming too dependent on technology? Are we at risk? Can we protect ourselves?
Presenter: Dr Jennifer Sansom
Food
14.Celebrating Christmas at the South Pole
12 Dec
If you think preparing for Christmas at home is demanding, spare a thought for the chef at the scientific research station in Antarctica. This talk reveals how Christmas is celebrated at the South Pole.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Games Canasta
CANASTA - BOLIVIA VERSION
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 12:45 (prompt) to 4:00
No class on 11 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre Take the opportunity to learn the strategies and tactics of this version of Canasta. Tuition for new players will be provided on 18 and 25 Jul.
Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com
Games Mahjong
MAHJONG - THE WESTERN GAME
Every Thursday from 4 Jul 1:00 to 4:00
No class on 11 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre
Learn and play Mahjong in a friendly atmosphere. Patient teaching is provided by Judith Bennett. Leader and Bookings: Sylvia Strike sylviastrike@hotmail.com
Trivia
TRIVIA FOR FUN
Every Friday from 5 Jul 1:15 to 3:15
No class on 12 Jul due to maintenance at the Centre
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
CURLY QUESTIONS IN
SCIENCE
Alternate Tuesdays from 23 July 10:00 to 12:00
For members who enjoy science, please join us for a series of talks on a wide range of topics presented by experts in their field.
Leaders: Laurie Wilson and Ian Thompson
Enquiries: Laurie Wilson wlaurie118@gmail.com (preferred) 0417 045 934
Bookings not required.
Science
1.Is nuclear power a realistic alternative for Australia?
23 Jul
Is nuclear power a viable and realistic alternative source of energy for Australia? This extremely relevant presentation brings in the science of nuclear power, the cost and the politics from a balanced viewpoint.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Medical Matters History
2.The history of vaccinations plus scurvy 6 Aug
Astronauts of the past in the Age of Discovery were killed by Scurvy. Smallpox also, until Jenner discovered that milkmaids were immune. Learn how diet and vaccination helped us.
Presenter: Dr John Walsh
Inventions
3.ABC The New Inventors
20 Aug
Our presenter is an agricultural scientist and for many years was on the judging panel of the early ABC The New Inventors television program.
Presenter: Chris Russell AM
Evolution
4.The evolutionary origin of humans
3 Sep
Where did we really come from, as determined by the latest fossil and genetic evidence?
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Craft
5.The history and use of clay
17 Sep
The history, science, and the use of clay in ceramics and pottery over the centuries.
Presenter: David Malone
Computers Software/Apps
6.Artificial intelligence
1 Oct
An easy-to-follow introduction to the state of AI in popular culture and the real world, including the arguments about its potential benefits, risks and what the future may hold.
Presenter: Jeff Burgess
Inventions
7.The life of inventor Nikola Tesla
15 Oct
Nikola Tesla was a brilliant inventor but a tragic eccentric. His inventions included the generation of hydroelectric power and high voltage electricity transmission, inventions that are critical to our daily lives.
Presenter: Prof Don Napper
Medical Matters
8.The rise and rise of cancer
29 Oct
Royal Family members have had cancer, and everywhere cancer rates in younger people are increasing dramatically This talk will use the latest world data to show you why
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
Nature
9.Pattern formation in nature
12 Nov
How have natural processes produced the dazzling variety of patterns we see around us, from zebra stripes to sand ripples?
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
Nature
10.Extraordinary eyes – how animals see the world 26 Nov
For us, the world can be a stunning place, but what is it like for other members of the animal kingdom, and what function does colour serve for them?
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Current Affairs
ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION
Alternate Tuesdays from 23 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. Topics are debated in a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. New members are very welcome.
Leader: Various Enquiries: Carmen Exner carmen.exner@gmail.com
Book Group
BOOK CLUB
Tuesdays every 4 weeks from 30 Jul, 27 Aug, 24 Sep, 22 Oct, 19 Nov 10:00 to 12:00 Eastern end of hall
Join fellow book lovers monthly to select a book, and after reading, discuss at the next get together Leaders and Bookings: Anne Black anneeblack@yahoo.com.au and Janie Stubbing janieandwal01@optusnet.com.au
PRIVATE HOMES
Book Group
WENDY’S BOOK CLUB (Forestville) (max 10)
Alternate Thursdays from 4 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
We borrow kits of books from the library. You will have four weeks to read your book before we discuss it. In the alternate meeting we share reading something aloud. Leader: Bernie Gibson bernieanddavid@hotmail.com 0416 231 513
Bookings: Marienne Short 0403 939 004
Music Appreciation
BACH TO THE FUTURE (Avalon) (max 20)
Alternate Fridays from 26 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 0405 199 093
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, short walk to Berowra Station
Venue Coordinator: Anne Rayment annerayment@hotmail.com
AFFAIRS OF INTEREST IN THE CURRENT WORLD
Second and fourth Mondays of every month from 8 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
Legal
1. Science in the witness box
8 Jul
The Chamberlain case featured brilliant barristers and deficient scientists. What has changed since?
Presenter: Ben Selinger
Environment
2. Sydney waste management 22 Jul
Making less and doing more. Personal and community priorities.
Presenter: Janine Rickets
Food
3. Australia’s culinary history
12 Aug
Changes in food and culture from convict ships to the present day.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Broadcasting
4. The ABC – achievements and challenges
26 Aug
The ABC faces many challenges in our rapidly changing media landscape.
Presenter: Janine Kitson
Wildlife
5. Australia’s wildlife conservancy
9 Sept
Turning the tide on Australia’s animal extinction crisis.
Presenter: Cathy Sowden
Travel
6. Life in the Perigord, France
23 Sept
This beautiful part of France is home to painted caves, medieval castles, foie gras and fine wines.
Presenter: John Walsh
Environment
7. Nuclear power generation 14 Oct
Facts and features concerning nuclear power and nuclear waste.
Presenter: Wesley Harder
Environment
8. Cure inequality through housing design
28 Oct
Ways to live with environmentally friendly use of buildings, land, energy and water.
Presenter: Tone Wheeler
Transport
9. Transformation of transport 11 Nov
Options for your next vehicle? Going electric?
Presenter: Mary Hendricks
Science
10. Fireworks
25 Nov
Used throughout the world, this is a fiery, explosive and colourful method of celebration.
Presenter: Joan Scott
BRUSH FARM NETBALL COURTS
1 Lawson Street, Eastwood parking onsite
Venue Coordinator: Al Reeks areeks61@gmail.com
Games Pickleball PICKLEBALL
Every Wednesday from 24 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 a tennis net, the paddles are the size of a beach bat and typically made of graphite and the ball is light plastic.
Leader and Bookings: Al Reeks areeks61@gmail.com
EASTWOOD CROQUET CLUB
Corner of West Parade & Wingate Avenue train station nearby Venue Coordinator: Patricia Sykes sykesp062@gmail.com
Games Croquet
INTRODUCTION TO CROQUET
Fridays from 5 Jul
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: The Secretary secretary@eastwoodcroquetclub.org.au 9654 2248
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
Tai Chi
TAI CHI (max 20)
Alternate Wednesdays from 3 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
INTERESTING SPEAKERS AT EPPING (max 30)
Alternate Wednesdays from 24 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
Technology
1. ID Support NSW 24 Jul
Learn how to spot a scam, run a credit check, the benefits of creating strong passwords and how to keep safe from identity crime.
Presenter: Alicia Anderson
History Iran
2. Isfahan: Pearl of Islam
7 Aug
The Safavid era witnessed the birth of modern Iran and ushered in a golden age of Islamic art and architecture. The capital, Shah Abbas, became one of the most dazzling cities of the Islamic world.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Photography
3. 12 Photos which made Australia
21 Aug
Twelve (12) iconic images of Australia from 1845 to 2013 showing the development of photographic art and technology over time and reflecting on who we are.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Education
4. Fire safety and prevention – tips and guidelines
4 Sep
Learn basic safety knowledge and fire protection, using fire safety equipment. Also information on lithium-ion battery safety.
Presenters: Fire and Rescue NSW
History Local
5. Virtual Walks
18 Sep
Take a virtual walk and hear interesting insights into things you might walk past without noticing – the largest and smallest, oldest and youngest, unexpected and bizarre.
(a) Sydney’s CBD, The Rocks and Parramatta (b) Kings Cross and Darlinghurst.
Presenter: Trevor McAlister
History Europe
6. Europe: the Renaissance and the Enlightenment
2 Oct – Part 1, 16 Oct – Part 2
30 Oct – Part 3, 13 Nov – Part 4
In this continuing 4-part course from 2022 and 2023, we look at revolutions in philosophical ideas, arts and politics, the first empire builder, Napoleon Bonaparte’s achievements, and European imperialism that followed based on his naval supremacy.
Presenter: Ian de Mellow
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
Dance
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING (max 16)
Every Friday from 5 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
Book Group
BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Thursdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
A reading and discussion group that considers a variety of texts with an emphasis on contemporary literature but also includes an occasional classic. The title of the first book for discussion will be given on enrolment.
Leaders: Sandra Luntz and Barbara Boston
Bookings: Sandra Luntz sandra.luntz@gmail.com (preferred) 9874 3382
GORDON LIBRARY
799 Pacific Highway
wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Venue Coordinator: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com (preferred) 0402 080 045
Philosophy PHILOSOPHY
Alternate Mondays from 8 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Meeting Room 2
This course looks at ‘No Excuses: Existentialism’: a series of lectures from the Great Courses DVDs. 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 8 Aug 10:00 to 12:30 (two classes 10:00 to 11:00 and 11:00 to 12:30)
Meeting Room 2
Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi and Qigong and gain health benefits through gentle strength, stretching and breathing exercises.
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
HORNSBY: CENTRAL LIBRARY
28-44 George St (entry in Hunter Lane) wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby, bus stop nearby Venue Coordinator: Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550
History Australia
AUSTRALIAN HISTORY SEMINARS
Alternate Tuesdays from 23 Jul 10:15 to 12:15 Room 4
A course including a diverse range of topics and speakers dealing with early history, famous individuals, local history, the Great War and Irish and Greek immigration.
Leader and Bookings: Garry Smith garmal@outlook.com.au (preferred) 0418 443 147
Language Italian
ITALIAN FOR TRAVELLING
Every Tuesday from 23 Jul 10 sessions only Room 2
10:30 to 12:30: Beginners and people who have done less than 50 hours prior learning. Room 8
1:30 to 3:30: Beyond beginners for more advanced students. Do you long to visit Italy sometime soon? We deal with language basics for everyday travel situations and cultural topics to enhance your travel.
Leader and Bookings: Paddy Gunning gunnosp@gmail.com (preferred) 0415 857 947
Travel TRAVELLING LADIES
Alternate Tuesdays from 30 Jul 10:15 to 12:15 4 sessions only Room 4
Four amazing hair-raising stories of travels in little explored parts of the world. Come and listen to some adventurous ladies share their incredible experiences of pursuing their wanderlust.
Leader: Nola Bramble
Bookings: Lynette Trupp roblyntrupp@bigpond.com.au (preferred) 9484 2641
EXTRA LECTURES OF INTEREST
Alternate Tuesdays from 24 Sep 10:15 to 12:15 4 sessions only
Room 4
A short series of talks on a variety of topics.
Bookings: Lynette Trupp roblyntrupp@bigpond.com.au (preferred) 9484 2641
Food
1. All about herbs and spices
24 Sep
Herbie is one of Australia’s foremost culinary specialists. With a passion for herbs and spices, he is the author of The Spice and Herb Bible.
Presenter: Ian “Herbie” Hemphill
History New Zealand
2. The First Maori War – 1845 to 1848
8 Oct
An illustrated history and origins of The First Maori War in the early days of New Zealand, covering a short background on early New Zealand, the causes, history and outcomes of the conflict.
Presenter: Peter Headley
Health
3. Kinesiology
22 Oct
The word Kinesiology is derived from the Greek word “kinetic” meaning moving energy. This lecture provides information on the workings of Kinesiology and explains where it fits into the complementary health industry.
Presenter: Steve Powell
Medical Matters History
4. The History of Medicine
5 Nov
John is a retired Orthopaedic Surgeon and will discuss our body, what it’s made of, what can go wrong and how to treat it as we grow older.
Presenter: Dr John Walsh
HORNSBY: LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE
25 Edgeworth David Avenue
wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com (preferred) 0402 080 045
Dance
DANCE DYNAMICS
Every Tuesday from 2 Jul 10:00 to 11:15
This dance fitness class is all about having fun while moving your body to great music. A wonderful way to improve your coordination and balance as well as providing benefits for your physical, emotional and mental health.
Leader and Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com 0409 448 542
Art Painting
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING (max 16)
Alternate Thursdays from 4 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 11 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
HORNSBY: STOREY PARK COMMUNITY CENTRE
12 Old Berowra Road car parking, bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045
Music Recorder
MEDIUM TO ADVANCED RECORDER (max 13)
Alternate Wednesdays from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:30 Room 1
The Northern Recorder Players are a friendly and relaxed group whose purpose is to enjoy making beautiful music from a wide repertoire. Sight reading ability required.
Leader and Bookings: Viv Peters viv55peters@gmail.com 0401 371 472
LINDFIELD GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE
2 Ulmarra Place, East Lindfield street parking available
Venue Coordinator: Book through the village office 9416 8466
VARIOUS SPEAKERS
Fourth Thursday of Every Month from 25 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Village Centre
Various speakers present different topics of interest. Bookings: Book through the village office 9416 8466
History Local
1. Tramways of the North Shore and Manly 25 Jul
Trams once connected the Northern Beaches coastal communities, leaving behind a rich history that still captivates us today.
Presenter: Ron Besdansky
Famous People
2. Newtown’s “Noble Woman” of the Great Depression
22 Aug
Matron Olive Angermunde, a commendable and dedicated nurse, played a significant role in the healthcare community during the 1929 to 1932 Depression.
Presenter: Dr Terry Beed
History USA
3. Know your American presidents
26 Sep
Facts about the American Presidency in the past.
Presenter: Nigel Hubbard
History Maritime
4. The Halvorsen story
24 Oct
The Halvorsen family came to Australia with very little but worked hard with extraordinary commitment to the design and building of boats we now know as the classic. Halvorsen. Presenter: Noel Phelan
Literature History
5. The 19th century lady novelist
28 Nov
Career options for female writers and their novels. Presenter: Jennifer Hubbard
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 4 Jul 10:15 to 12:15
Meeting room, main building
A literary discussion group studying 10-11 books each semester in a friendly and informal setting. All enthusiastic readers welcome. Book titles will be provided upon enrolment.
Leader and Bookings: Maurice O’Donovan odonovan.1@bigpond.com 9411 8717
Language Spanish POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
Alternate Mondays from 8 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
Meeting room, main building
Continuing course. A reasonable knowledge of grammar is required encompassing all tenses and understanding of subjunctives. The course will focus on listening, reading and speaking. There will be continual grammar revision. A variety of teaching methods will be used.
Leader and Bookings: Jenny Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com 9966 8510 or 0403 923 555
Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE
Every Wednesday from 24 Jul 1:00 to 3:00
Resource centre, bottom of driveway not school holidays
This continuing course is based on Part 3 of the second edition of the Oxford Latin Course enhanced by passages of prose and poetry from various classical authors. Anyone with some basic knowledge of Latin is welcome to join us.
Leader and Bookings: Helen Ledwidge helenledwidge685@gmail.com 0414 489 716
Language German GERMAN ADVANCED
Every Friday from 26 Jul 9:30 to 11:00
Meeting Room, main building
Students need to have a sound knowledge of German. Newspaper articles, passages from literature and poetry for discussion. New members welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722
Language German
GERMAN INTERMEDIATE
Every Friday from 26 Jul 11:00 to 12:30 Meeting Room, main building em 2008 neu Abschlusskurs – Kursbuch Niveaustufe C1 and Arbeitsbuch (ISBN 978-3-19-511697-8); Der arme Millionar: A course in everyday German BBC Radio basis for discussion in German.
Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722
PENNANT HILLS: HORNSBY KU-RING-GAI CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH CENTRE
5 Fisher Avenue parking nearby, train station nearby Venue Coordinator: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045
Poetry POETRY WRITING
Alternate Thursdays from 25 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: Grahame Marr gwmarr1@bigpond.com (preferred) 0447 580 088
Language French FRENCH PRE-INTERMEDIATE (max 15)
Every Tuesday from 23 Jul 1:00 to 3:00 Fellowship Room not school holidays
For those who have completed at least 2 years of preliminary French course. Develop your skills in speaking, listening to, reading and writing French in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Three text books required. Phone Leader for details.
Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck 9634 4214
Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 15)
Every Thursday from 25 Jul 1:00 to 3:00 Fellowship Room not school holidays
For those who have completed at least 3 years of preliminary French course. Develop your skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing French in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Three text books required.
Phone Leader for details.
Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck 9634 4214
ST IVES FERNBANK RETIREMENT VILLAGE
2 Kitchener St parking onsite, parking nearby
Venue Coordinator: Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550
Creative Writing SHORT STORY WRITING
Alternate Tuesdays from 30 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
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
Music Ukulele
UKULELE FOR FUN
Every Wednesday from 3 Jul 9:15 to 12:00 (beginners 9:15 to 9:45, beyond beginners 9:30 to 12:00)
Wesley Room
Looking for a new interest? Come and have fun with our friendly group. Beginners welcome and no experience necessary. Start-up ukuleles available to try. Music is so good for the soul. Strum and sing with us just for fun.
Leader: Dennis Simmons
Bookings: Barrie Heath foxv217@gmail.com 0450 405 526
Cinema
THE GOLDEN AGE OF CINEMA
Alternate Fridays from 12 Jul 10:00 to 12:30
Wesley Room
Classic films from the 1920s to the 1960s will be screened. Leader and Bookings: Gary Tyrrell talk2garyt@gmail.com 0432 696 163
Discussion Group Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 18)
Alternate Thursdays from 1 Aug 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. New members warmly welcomed.
Leader and Bookings: Michael Branagan 0417 452 100
Dance
DANCE FOR FITNESS AND FUN, TWO Every Friday from 2 Aug 10:00 to 11:30
Finlay Room
We dance to songs that we know and love. With music, rhythm and movement, we make new neuro pathways remembering the steps while exercising body and mind, improving memory and cardiac fitness, with the added bonus of friendship and laughter.
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
Dance
DANCE FOR FITNESS AND FUN, ONE
Every Monday from 5 Aug 10:00 to 11:30 Wesley Room
We dance to songs that we know and love. With music, rhythm and movement, we make new neuro pathways remembering the steps while exercising body and mind, improving memory and cardiac fitness, with the added bonus of friendship and laughter.
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
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 8 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
Technology
1. Artificial Intelligence 8 Jul
The growth of Artificial Intelligence is already changing the world just as the internet did 20 years ago. The ChatGPT release and further developments since then have generated both excitement and concern.
Presenter: John Cameron
Anthropology
2. Living with the Anthropocene 22 Jul
We live in a time people refer to as the ‘Anthropocene’. Humans have become the single most influential species on the planet causing significant global warming and changes to land, environment, water, organisms and atmosphere. Presenter: Kevin Murray
Architecture
3. Historic houses of Sydney 12 Aug
Over approximately 240 years many houses (and usually gardens) in different styles have been built in Sydney. We look at some of these great houses, many of which are regularly open to the public.
Presenter: Stewart Reed
History Australia
4. Australian Museum NSW 26 Aug
Sydney’s natural history museum dates from 1827. We take a look at the museum’s collection (almost 22 million items), its building, people and important events during its history.
Presenter: Stewart Reed
History Japan
5. Japan (Part 1) – the island country of East Asia 9 Sep
We look at the history and geography of Japan, population demographics, language, religions, political system, their constitution, the role of the Imperial Family plus other aspects of Japan including their parliamentary democracy.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Culture Japan
6. Japan (Part 2) – living and working as a foreigner
23 Sep
We consider Japanese customs, business culture, schooling, etiquette, cuisine and fashion plus the correct way in which to bow and other quaint aspects of daily life in Japan.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Nature
7. The killer whales of Eden
14 Oct
The incredible true story of the unique relationship of a pod of killer whales (Orcas) and a whaling family in Eden and Twofold Bay on the far South Coast of NSW from the late 1800s until the 1930s.
Presenter: Graham Sims
History Maritime
8. How we won the America’s Cup
28 Oct
On 26 September 1983, off the coast of Rhode Island, the yacht Australia II crossed the finish line to win the America’s Cup. In the best of 7 races, Australia came from behind to win 4-3.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Famous People
9. May Gibbs – cartoon and comic strips
11 Nov
While May Gibbs books, especially “Snugglepot and Cuddlepie” are well known, other aspects of her work aren’t. This presentation looks at her fascinating cartoon and comics.
Presenter: Stewart Reed
Legal
10. Reflections of a former Director of Public Prosecutions
25 Nov
Nick Cowdery spent 50 years in criminal justice in various capacities and was a public defender, barrister and acting judge. For nearly 17 years he was Director of Public Prosecutions for NSW.
Presenter: Nick Cowdery AO QC
TURRAMURRA UNITING CHURCH
Turramurra Avenue
wheelchair access, parking onsite, train station nearby, bus stop nearby
Venue Coordinator: Vicky Davies vdavies710@gmail.com (preferred) 0422 522 550
Language German
PRE INTERMEDIATE GERMAN
Every Monday from 22 Jul to 23 Sep then 14 Oct 10:00 to 12:00 Garden room not school holidays
Participants will develop their German vocabulary and grammar skills through course work, listening and speaking activities. The course assumes some prior study of, or familiarity with, the German language.
Leader and Bookings: Michael Hummel michael.hummel48@gmail.com 0404 478 814
Discussion Group Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Tuesdays from 23 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: Margaret Rapsey rmrapsey@bigpond.com (preferred) 9456 4410 0457 252 526
Games
FUN PUZZLES
Alternate Tuesdays from 30 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 pentominoes, as well as space problems, number puzzles, word and logic puzzles. You will need pencils, paper, scissors and eraser.
Leader and Bookings: Sandra Sadler spsadler@dodo.com.au 9484 5513
History HISTORY – FACTS AND FUN
Alternate Thursdays from 1 Aug 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
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 1 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 17 July
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 5 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: Mahfouz - Palace Walk; Book 2: Solzhenitsyn – One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich Leader and Bookings: Kaye Horley rkhorley@gmail.com 0412 750 487
Philosophy PHILOSOPHY (Pymble)
Alternate Tuesdays from 9 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.
New members welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Margot Taverne margottaverne@gmail.com 9449 2923
Bridge BRIDGE (Thornleigh)
Alternate Wednesdays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 street parking, bus stop nearby
Learn to play both Social (Rubber) Bridge and Club Duplicate Bridge in a congenial social setting. Directions provided on enrolment.
Leader and Bookings: James Stowe jstowe313@gmail.com 0411 238 664
Creative Writing A WAY WITH WORDS (Pymble)
Alternate Thursdays from 11 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. New members with some writing experience are welcome.
Leader: Margaret Thomason 9488 8960
Bookings: Margot Taverne margottaverne@gmail.com 9449 2923
Poetry WITH RHYME AND REASON (Eastwood) (max 10)
Alternate Thursdays from 18 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
ZOOM COURSES
Language Creative Writing OUR WORDS
Presented by Greater West Region
First and Third Monday from 1 Jul 9:30 to 11:30
Interested in the origin of language? Words and sayings can be fun. Share a word to use in an on-the-spot writing task. Discuss articles on many aspects of the English language. Hone your writing skills in a friendly like-minded group and let your talent emerge.
Leader and Bookings: Ann Orel annorel@hotmail.com
Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12)
Presented by City and Inner West
Every Monday from 1 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 and/or every second Thursday from 11 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
Current Affairs
YOU NEED NOT AGREE
Presented by Northern Beaches Region
Every Monday from 1 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 0413 306 146
Crosswords
MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
First Monday every month from 1 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 ronshap1938@gmail.com (preferred)
Language Spanish SPANISH CONVERSATION
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Tuesdays from 2 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
Most of the time we discuss current affairs, cultural events or a subject previously decided upon. Spanish is spoken 90% of the time. Good knowledge of the language is required.
Leader: Maria Criado
Bookings: Jenny Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com 9966 8510
Crosswords
MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
First Wednesday of each month from 3 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Guided practice sessions for members who already have other relevant experience.
Leader and Bookings: Ron Shapiro 4225 0270 ronshap1938@gmail.com (preferred)
seealsopage57
Language Russian
RUSSIAN ADVANCED CONVERSATION
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Mondays from 8 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This is a continuing course that encourages participants to practice conversational Russian with the help of audio-visual materials. New members with an adequate knowledge of the language are very welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Dr Richard Brettell richardbrettell@hotmail.com 0455 279 866
Cinema Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 9)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Alternate Wednesdays from 10 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
Join a fun, friendly and stimulating discussion about two films at every meeting. Two films from SBS on Demand or Netflix are chosen at each session. The result is an invigorating, insightful and enjoyable discussion from the comfort of your own home.
Leader and Bookings: Ross Giannone 0409 382 384
Music
MUSIC WE GREW UP WITH
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Thursdays from 11 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 MWGUW completes its 10th consecutive year with more music delivered via audio-video compilations. Content includes artists such as Moody Blues, Harry Chapin, Folk, Classical and music from 1950s, 60s, 70s and 80s. Sessions list available closer to the time.
Leader and Bookings: Howard Ferrer howferr@gmail.com
Photography
CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
Presented by Northern Beaches Region
Alternate Fridays from 12 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) 0417 045 934
Language Italian
INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN (max 20)
Presented by City and Inner West Region
Every Friday from 12 Jul 1:30 to 3:30
We are a convivial and welcoming group of people who enjoy practicing the four linguistic skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. We also talk about culture and regularly revise grammar, mostly from online websites, to consolidate and deepen our knowledge of Italy and its language.
Leader and Bookings: Pia Ottavian 0424 738 824 pia.ottavian@yahoo.com.au
ZOOM COURSES
Languages Mandarin MANDARIN (max 30)
Presented by Greater West Region
Every Second Monday from 22 or 29 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
This continuing course is intended for Sydney u3a members who want to learn Mandarin through learning Chinese characters and sentences using Pinyin. Your level of Mandarin will determine which Monday class as your start date.
Enquiries and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com
Travel History
TRAVEL AND HISTORY TOGETHER
Presented by Greater West Region
Fourth Tuesday from 23 Jul 2:00 to 4:00
Enjoy armchair travelling as various members share their travel journeys, including the intriguing history of the places they have travelled. Check the Sydney u3a GW website (Courses & Updates) for dates and topics of individual presentations.
Leader and Bookings: Karen Paterson karenpaterson@optusnet.com.au
Language French
FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 12)
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Wednesdays from 24 Jul 9:30 to 11:30
For those students who have a good basic knowledge of grammar and the ability to read, understand and communicate in French at an intermediate level.
Leader and Bookings: Ethleen Low ethlow@bigpond.net.au (preferred) 0418 161 706
MORE GREAT MOMENTS IN SCIENCE
Presented by Upper North Region
Alternate Wednesdays from 24 Jul 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
Travel
1.Most scenic train journeys in the world
24 Jul
As train travel is getting more popular with tourists, we look at the best scenic train journeys in all the five continents.
Presenter: Das Dassanayake
Human Body
2.The DNA revolution
7 Aug
The latest revolution in DNA, in research and gene editing and the many ethical issues that arise from them.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Science
3.Fireworks
21 Aug
The history, chemistry and use of fireworks in history.
Presenter: Joan Scott
Science
4.Introduction to sensory science
4 Sep
The science of beer and wine, the history, production and testing of our favourite tipples.
Presenter: Greg Organ
Technology
5.Mechanisation takes command 18 Sep
The way mechanisation has invaded our lives over centuries and how mass marketing accelerated the invasion.
Presenter: David Malone
Science
6.Cosmology
2 Oct
The origin, shape and ultimate fate of the universe.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
Nature
7.The complete cockroach
16 Oct
The most despised creature on earth: the biology, habitat and diseases they carry.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science Nature
8.Extraordinary eyes and how animals see the world
30 Oct
For us, the world can be a stunning place, but what is it like for other animals and what function does colour serve for them?
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Human Body
9.The human brain
13 Nov
Inside your head is the most complex object in the known universe – the brain. How it works is still not fully understood. Let’s learn about this using simple language.
Presenter: Das Dassanayake
Science Music
10.The science behind music
27 Nov
Music is one of the most pervasive and influential art forms. Underlying it are physics and mathematics, which might begin to explain the effect on the listener.
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
THURSDAYS ON ZOOM
Presented by Harbourside North Region
Alternate Thursdays from 25 Jul 10:00 to 12:00
Interesting presentations on various topics each Thursday. Bookings: Please book by Tuesday afternoon before the presentation at https://sydneyu3a.org OR Rosemarie Einstein einstein@starmer.net.au
History Philosophy
1.History of moral thought
25 Jul, 8, 22 Aug
How humans, over the centuries, have struggled to define what is right or wrong behaviour and why.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
ZOOM COURSES
Health
2.Managing stress
5 Sep
How to minimise stress and improve health, performance and longevity
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
Science Medical Matters
3.Putting alternative medicine to the test
19 Sep
The evolution of the clinical trial and how alternative medicine fares when subjected to modern clinical trials.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Nature Outdoors
4.Australian native plants
3 Oct
Discover the many fascinating ways our plants have adapted to cope with existence on the second driest continent. Find out which plants would be suitable for your garden or balcony.
Presenter: Judith Sleijpen
Current Affairs
5.Cultivating compassion – going beyond crises
17 Oct
Based on his latest book (launched December 2023 on invitation in a Buddhist Monastery, Taiwan), Stephen demonstrates the power of compassion to build trust across difference from personal to international life.
Presenter: Stephen Hill
Health
6.Safeguarding our health
31 Oct
It is near impossible to avoid illnesses. What defences do we have to safeguard and restore health?
Presenter: Sunny Ko
Environment Future
7.Feeding and watering our future world
28 Nov
“There will be more food eaten in the next 50 years than in the whole history of humanity” (Prof Megan Clark). The challenges, successes and misconceptions of providing global food security from an Australian perspective.
Presenter: Chris Russell
Retirement
8.All you need to know about retirement villages
14 Nov
Hear from an industry expert about the different forms of seniors living, why residents choose retirement villages, the protections under the Retirement Villages Act and the legal and fee structures.
Presenter: Cameron Kirby
Languages Mandarin MANDARIN PIES (PRACTICE IN EVERYDAY SPEAKING)
Presented by Greater West Region
Every Friday from 26 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.
Enquiries and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com
Discussion Group
TALKING POINTS ON ZOOM
Presented by Harbourside North Region
Alternate Thursdays from 1 Aug 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
Language Spanish POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
Presented by Northern Beaches Region
Every Monday from 5 Aug 2:00 to 4:00
Further development of spoken and written communication skills, grammar reviews and study of Spanish speaking cultures. For people with three years of Spanish or equivalent. Newcomers please contact course leader for details.
Leader and Bookings: Alexis Tabensky alexistabensky7@gmail.com 0424 983 618
Travel
TRAVELLERS ON ZOOM (max 25)
Presented by Endeavour Region
Second Thursday every month from 8 Aug 2:00 to 4:00 excluding school holidays
The group is for people who enjoy travel. Members can share their travel experiences, stories and photographs. Or you can just enjoy being part of the audience to reminisce or dream.
Leader and Bookings: Greg Organ cjgjorgan@gmail.com 0481 835 009
Crosswords CRACKING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 16)
Presented by City and Inner West Region Tuesdays 6,13, 20, 27 Aug 2:00 to 4:00 (4 sessions)
Get into the mind of cryptic crossword compilers and learn how to solve their devious clues. Have fun while keeping your brain active.
Leader and Bookings: Ron Shapiro ronshap1938@gmail.com (preferred) 4225 0270
COURSE INDEX
A Anthropology 49
Archaeology 12, 20
Architecture 12, 17, 49
Art 12, 16, 20, 28, 29, 34, 37
Appreciation 19, 20
Drawing 11, 20
Drawing and Painting 38
Galleries 13
History 27
Painting 39, 40, 46, 47
Urban Sketching 20 Astronomy 26
Australia 41 History 24
Travel 24
Aviation 33
B
Biography Military 41
Biography Sport 41 Biology 33
Book Group 11, 12, 13, 15, 17, 21, 22, 24, 25, 32, 37, 43, 45, 47, 50
Bridge 50
Broadcasting 12, 44
C Calligraphy 24
Cinema 11, 19, 41, 48
Movies 13, 25, 51
Computers 41
Software/Apps 42
Craft 37, 42
Creative Writing 20, 25, 48, 50
Crime 18
Crosswords 51, 51
Culture Japan 49
Current Affairs 10, 28, 30, 35, 38, 43, 51, 53 History 28
D
Dance 19, 25, 27, 45, 46, 48, 49
Desktop Flying 25
Discussion Group 11, 13, 17, 19, 20, 23, 27, 53 Book Group 34
Current Affairs 23, 34, 48, 50 Movies 17, 38
Drama 31, 40
E Economics Ethics 28
Economics Investment 11
Education 45 Energy 34, 42
Environment 44 Future 53
Ethics 35
Event 17, 32
Evolution 28, 42
Exercise 40
Exercise Health 32
F Famous People 31, 33, 38, 47, 49
Art 14
Medical Matters 29, 32
Food 42, 42, 44, 46
Food History 31
G
Games 15, 19, 23, 27, 50
Bowls 37
Bridge 10 41
Canasta 42
Canasta Mah Jong 25
Cards 41
Croquet 13, 39, 45
Mahjong 42
Pétanque 15
Pickleball 44
Table Tennis 40
Genealogy 18, 23
Geography History 33, 34 Geology 35
Government Services 32
H
Health 14, 32, 35, 35, 41, 46, 53
History 12, 14, 15, 16, 18, 22, 24, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 31, 33, 35, 37, 50
Ancient 14, 18, 26, 28, 29, 30
Australia 14, 35, 46, 49
China 27
Culture 22, 29, 35
Europe 45
Famous People 26, 35
Genealogy 23
Geography 32
Iran 45
Japan 49
Local 40, 45, 47
Maritime 30, 38, 49
New Zealand 46 Philosophy 52, Religion 34, 34, 35
Science 35
USA 47
World 25
Human Body 52, 52
I
Inventions 14, 33, 42
L Language 14, 20, 16
Creative Writing 51
ESL 10
French 13, 17, 18, 38, 39, 40, 48, 52, 57 German 29, 47, 48, 49, 50
Italian 19, 46
Japanese 10, 11
Latin 39, 39, 47
Russian 51
Spanish 11, 47, 51, 53, 57
Mandarin 53
Law 41
Legal 44, 49
Human Rights 30
Matters 15, 18, 33
Literature 15, 16, 19, 28, 29, 30
History 47
Logic 33
M
Maritime 12
Media 18
Medical Matters 31, 33, 34, 37
History 26, 42, 46
Music 40
Movies 25
Music 16, 19, 26, 29, 30, 31, 33, 40, 51
Appreciation 17, 41, 43
Guitar 39
Opera 24
Performance 12, 39
Poetry 26
Recorder 11, 27, 40, 47
Singing 39
Ukulele 11, 38, 48
N Nature 14, 25, 43, 49, 52
Outdoors 53
O
Outdoor Outings 25
Outdoors 21
Bushwalking 21
Eating Out 15, 21, 36
Galleries 15
Sketching 21
Walking 50
P
Painting Photography 14
Philosophy 12, 16, 39, 46, 50
Psychology 28
Photography 51
Art 26, 28, 34
Poetry 32, 48, 50
Politics 37, 17
Current Affairs 33
Q
Qigong 10, 40
Tai Chi 10
R
Relaxation Exercise 10
Religion 14, 16, 34
Religion Architecture 27
Retirement 53
S
Science 14, 16, 24, 27, 28, 29, 30, 32, 33, 35, 42, 44, 52
Technology 17
Astronomy 15
Current Affairs 32, 36
Environment 36
Medical Matters 32, 34, 53
Music 52
Nature 52
Religion 35
Society 16
Sociology 12, 33
Communication 10
Sport 42
T
Tai Chi 12, 23, 45, 46
Technology 18, 31, 45, 49, 52
Computers 42
Theatre 41
Transport 44
Travel 16, 19, 26, 27, 31, 46, 52, 53
Culture 32
History 31, 33, 52
Trivia 42
V
Visual Literacy 14
W
Wildlife 44
Writing 13, 14, 34
Y
Yoga 38, 39
SUBURBS INDEX
2024 CALENDAR
JanuaryFebruaryMarch
AprilMayJune
JulyAugustSeptember
OctoberNovemberDecember
NOTES
ADDITIONAL ZOOM COURSES
Language Spanish SPANISH CONVERSATION (INTERMEDIATE)
Presented by Eastern Region
Thursdays from 4 Jul 10:30 to 12:30
This is primarily conversation in Spanish. We welcome new members any time. The level of conversation assumes a basic knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. Leader and Bookings: Ian Finck ifin55@gmail.com 0405499515
Language French FRENCH FOR BEGINNERS
Presented by Eastern Region
Every Thursday from 25 Jul from 10:30 to 12:30 Each Zoom class has 3 sessions of 40 minutes with a 5 minute break between sessions. Leader and Bookings: Jeanette Phamnguyetpham45@yahoo.com.au 0409 751 377
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.