



A warm welcome is extended to anyone, regardless of age or experience, who would enjoy the friendly and informal environment of following their passion or interest at any of our courses.
Sydney u3a is a not-for-profit organisation whose members are no longer in full employment and join to share the fun and friendship of like-minded people who want to continue their interests or explore new creative, educational, and social opportunities at local venues throughout the Sydney region.
There are no course entrance requirements, no exams and no awards given. All course presenters are volunteers who share the gems of their profession and interests. Choose from over 400 face-to-face and zoom courses, plus events that cover a wide variety of topics.
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 WEST Blacktown, Castle Hill, Hills District, Parramatta, Cumberland
HARBOURSIDE Castle Cove, Chatswood, NORTH Greenwich, Hunters Hill, Lane Cove, Mosman, McMahons Point, Roseville
NORTHERN Avalon, Balgowlah, Belrose, BEACHES Collaroy, Forestville, Frenchs Forest, Mona Vale, Narrabeen, Newport, North Curl Curl, Warriewood
UPPER NORTH Berowra, Epping, Gordon, Hornsby, Killara, Lindfield, Pennant Hills, Pymble, St Ives, Turramurra, Wahroonga, Waitara.
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
Related to regional activities and/or courses can be made to Regional Presidents or Regional Course Coordinators listed in this book.
This Course Book provides details of the wide variety of courses, presentations, events, and other information, that are available to all Sydney u3a members. Courses are offered in different ways; some are single presentations, others go for several weeks or through the entire semester.
Thank you to the Regional Course Coordinators and their teams, for compiling the information for this book; to the editor Keith Crowe, to 121 Creative for the design & layout and to Kwik Kopy Circular Quay for the printing.
Events which occur on one occasion 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.
The main way to book a course is using our new online website called SUMMIT, at www.sydneyu3a.org. It is very easy to browse and search for courses, and then book your preferred ones. A few courses are booked directly with the booking secretary, which is noted in the description of the course and just a few courses do not require booking. Things to note are:
• Some courses have a maximum number of attendees, which will be indicated in brackets after the title; e.g. (max 10).
• If you are unable to attend a course after you have booked, just delete your booking from the course either in SUMMIT or by contacting the Booking Secretary, as there can be waiting lists.
• Wear your membership badge at all times for face-to-face meetings.
Note:
If you are not a member, you may book a course, and then attend up to two sessions, depending on availability, before you need to become a member. Contact Head Office to do that.
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.
President Gavin Crawford president.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
VP Education Vicki Moss vpeducation.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
VP Public Relations Mathew Koshy vppr.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
Treasurer Patrick McGovern sydu3a.treasurer@gmail.com
Secretary Clare Fietz secretary.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
Admin Manager Marilyn Noonan mgrad.sydneyu3a@gmail.com
at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
City and Inner West
Jennifer Waldron jenniferwaldron2@gmail.com
Eastern David Rosenwax drosenwax@bigpond.com
Endeavour Southern Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com
Greater West Robin Amos jjnanna@internode.on.net
Harbourside North Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com
Northern Beaches Lynda Cronshaw nbpres.sydu3a@gmail.com
Upper North Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com
Welcome to 2nd Semester 2025.
On your behalf, thank you to Jennifer Waldron, Lynda Cronshaw and Michael Parkinson for their service on the Sydney u3a Executive and Board for the last three years. Both Jennifer and Lynda are only stepping sideways, as they are the new Presidents of their regions, and will continue to serve on the Board.
Both Lynda and Jennifer have served in their regions and head office for over seven and fifteen years respectively, and along with many of your regional Presidents and Course Coordinators who have served for a similarly long time, they provide continuity and stability to Sydney u3a.
That’s not to say we couldn’t do with other members stepping up and joining their regional committees. Please give it some thought. Many hands make light work.
We are also grateful to the Board and Keith Crowe, Pam Furney, Rosemarie Einstein for the many years of researching suitable software for us and Keith, Pam and Rosemarie in particular for the many hours of work in getting SUMMIT up and running.
Also on your behalf, thank you to Stuart Cumming who has managed and maintained our MyU3A software and worked with Keith to produce our Coursebook, for the last 11 years. SUMMIT, is now up and running.
If you are reading this online, then you are already in SUMMIT. How easy is it to navigate and find interesting courses either for specific dates, days of the week, venues or subject areas? But if you do need any help , then contact your regional course coordinator and ask for one of our “Champions” to contact you to set you up.
If you are reading the print copy of the Coursebook, I’d encourage you to reach out to your regional course coordinator, who can arrange to easily get you setup in SUMMIT. It’s such an easy way to find and book courses, you will be pleasantly surprised.
I’d also like to suggest that you look at the new courses and Zoom courses offered in 2nd semester. We will be working hard over the next 12 months to join other u3a groups in sharing Zoom courses. As they are finalised, we’ll add them to SUMMIT so you don’t need to wait till 1st semester next year.
Gavin Crawford, President, Sydney u3a
Walking History
15)
3 Sept 09:30 to 12:30
Meet at northern exit barrier at Parramatta Railway Station for short walk to the Barracks. These buildings, erected on the orders of Governor Macquarie, form the oldest continuously used military barracks on the mainland of Australia. Completed in 1820, the structures were designed for a company of 100 officers and men, and served as barracks for British regiments stationed there during convict times. Please note that the terrain is uneven, and not suitable for participants with mobility issues. Cost $15, payable on the day.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
Walking History Local
11 Sept 09:30 to 13:00
Meet at Hunter Baillie Memorial Church, corner of Johnston & Collins Streets, Annandale. Lieutenant Colonel George Johnston’s talents extended beyond military bravery. He became an accomplished livestock breeder, his wheat grew well, and his large vegetable garden flourished. Come for a stroll through Annandale Farm, admire the Hunter Baillie Memorial Church, and take a fresh look at the old sandstone bridge across Johnston’s Creek.
Requirements: reasonable fitness, comfortable shoes, weather protection.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
History Local Walking
25 Sept 09:30 to 13:00
Meet at Hunter Baillie Memorial Church, corner of Johnston & Collins Streets, Annandale. Present day Annandale retains many features of John Young’s original vision for this elegant suburb. Johnston Street is still lined with beautiful structures: grand homes, a Tuscan style villa, a war memorial and the famous Witches’ Houses. In the side streets notable artists had their studios, a humble family reared a boy who would later become Archbishop of Sydney, and the first sounds of ‘the talkies’ were stirring.
Requirements: reasonable fitness, comfortable shoes, weather protection.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
History Local Walking
14 Oct 09:30 to 12:30
Meet at 9.30 opposite St Mary’s Cathedral on College Street. Macquarie Street is much more than a stately thoroughfare showcasing heritage buildings, prominent citizens and the occasional felony. Major architects left their mark on several public buildings: Francis Greenway, James Barnet and Walter Liberty Vernon, along with lesser known ones, like Burcham Clamp, Thomas Sapsford and Ross & Rowe. On these two walks we’ll explore some of the early water infrastructure projects, uncover the demolished historic buildings, and look at the former homes of the Fairfax family, erstwhile oyster farmer Thomas Holt, and the late artist Portia Geach. Also with the Macquarie Street precinct are a railway station that never came to fruition, an international exhibition building predating Sydney’s Garden Palace, and colourful stories from the world of theatre. Come with an open mind, ready to discover some lesser known aspects of one of Sydney’s most elegant streetscapes BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Requirements: reasonable fitness, comfortable shoes, weather protection. Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
History Local Architecture MEMORIES
21 Oct 09:30 to 12:30
Meet at 9.30 outside the State Library on Macquarie Street. Macquarie Street is much more than a stately thoroughfare showcasing heritage buildings, prominent citizens and the occasional felony. Major architects left their mark on several public buildings: Francis Greenway, James Barnet and Walter Liberty Vernon, along with lesser known ones, like Burcham Clamp, Thomas Sapsford and Ross & Rowe. On these two walks we’ll explore some of the early water infrastructure projects, uncover the demolished historic buildings, and look at the former homes of the Fairfax family, erstwhile oyster farmer Thomas Holt, and the late artist Portia Geach. Also associated with the Macquarie Street precinct are a railway station that never came to fruition, an international exhibition building predating Sydney’s Garden Palace, and colourful stories from the world of theatre. Come with an open mind, ready to discover some lesser known aspects of one of Sydney’s most elegant streetscapes.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
Requirements: reasonable fitness, comfortable shoes, weather protection. Essential for both walks.
(max 15)
28 Oct 09:15 to 12:30 Meet 9:15 for 9.30am start.
This walk is only for those who have attended the presentation ‘History and intrigues exposed while building the Darling Harbour Freeway’ at Dougherty Community Centre, Chatswood on Tuesday 21 October, by Max Underhill, a construction engineer on the project between 1974-79. The tour will bring to life the experiences and challenges surrounding the Darling Harbour Freeway construction.
We will meet in Napoleon Plaza, outside Wynyard Station Exit 4 Barangaroo at 9.15am for a 9.30am start. If arriving by rail at Wynyard station, head for Exit 4 Barangaroo down escalator/steps, along the tunnel and back up to street level where we will meet.
The tour will take us down Sussex St to King St then Market St, before walking up through Darling Harbour, talking about the early history, construction in a goods yard, Jack Mundey and more. Then we will pass through the Chinese Gardens to the Hydraulic Power Pump House. There will be plenty of comfort stops and coffee spots, finishing at the Nest, a little after mid-day where there will be access to Light Rail or an option for lunch.
ONLINE BOOKING ONLY
Leader: Anna Underhill: annajunderhill@gmail.com
Leader: Maxwell Underhill: maxwellunderhill@gmail.com 0407 998 516
Art Culture
28 Oct 10:00 to 13:00
Darlinghurst is hip, funky and full of charming galleries, so come along and feast your eyes on paintings, sculpture, jewellery, photography and ceramics. Meet for coffee at 10am at bus stop on Burton Street, near corner of Forbes Street, Darlinghurst. Bus route 389. Requirements: reasonable fitness, water bottle, weather protection, walking shoes.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
Outings
6 Nov 11:30 to 13:30
Relax in the beautiful gardens on WC Wentworth’s 19th century estate (69A Wentworth Road, Vaucluse) and enjoy something savoury and something sweet, with coffee/tea and sparkling wine. Dietary requirements catered for. Cost $85 (no refunds possible) payable in advance by EFTPOS only. Payment details provided when booking. Bus 324, 325. Ample free parking on site, entry opposite Coolong Road.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Participants must book by Thursday 9 October to allow for processing of pre-payments.
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
Legal
7 Nov 09:30 to 12:45
Meet at 9.30, corner of George & Central Streets, outside McDonald’s. To the uninitiated, a court can be a fascinating, even intimidating place to experience. During Part 1 we’ll explore the workings of the inferior courts (civil and criminal) sitting at Brickfield Hill: Central District Court, the John Maddison Tower, and the Downing Centre. We’ll sit in on trials, sentence proceedings and appeals, and also explore the local history and heritage architecture of the area. NOTE: Airportstyle security applies at all courts, and no aerosols or sharp/bladed instruments are allowed. Photography is forbidden. Affordable Korean lunch afterwards.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
Legal
14 Nov 09:30 to 12:45
Meet at 9.30, Queen Victoria statue, Queens Square, opposite Hyde Park Barracks. To the uninitiated, a court can be a fascinating, even intimidating place to experience. On this visit we’ll discover what happens in court: who’s who at the bar table, why the fancy dress, what’s with all the formality? We’ll see how the superior courts operate: the Supreme Court, the Federal Court and the High Court. We may attend a murder trial or sentence proceedings, a civil hearing and some appellate matters. Each walk will also explore the heritage architecture and local history of the area. NOTE: Airportstyle security applies at all courts, and no aerosols or sharp/bladed instruments are allowed. Photography is forbidden. Affordable lunch afterwards.
BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL: ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
November 12 - 19, 2025
Sydney u3a in conjunction with Wendy Wu Tours, has put together an exclusive tour offer in Singapore for our members travelling in November. The full details of the itinerary and highlights, along with pricing are available in the link below. https://shorturl.at/N6QRP
Remember you can share accommodation with a non Sydney u3a member ie. with a partner or friend who is not a member. If you are interested or if you have any questions regarding the tour, please contact Robin Amos through the SUMMIT Contact button Literature
Feb 18 to 20
Historical Fiction: Bringing the Past to Life
The 19th Literary Festival is on 18-20 February 2026 in the historic Carrington Hotel in Katoomba. The theme is Historical Fiction: Bringing the Past to Life in which elements of fact and fiction are blended to create compelling stories, plays, poetry, songs and movies that entertain, inform and will even challenge you. Three days of fun with fabulous presentations, delightful breakfasts, lunches, morning and afternoon teas and gourmet dinners (including wine), a movie night and time to just relax and enjoy Katoomba. On Thursday, following our Cocktail Party and Dinner, our special guest Heather Morris, author of Tattooist of Auschwitz, Cilka’s Journey, Three Sisters, Sisters of the Rising Sun, will discuss the ‘stories behind her stories’.
$1,250 Literary Festival plus double room with ensuite, all meals, wine, Movie Night, Cocktail Party
$830 Literary Festival plus single room with ensuite, all meals, wine, Movie Night, Cocktail Party
Bookings open on 5 August 2025.
Bookings and Delegate Coordinator: Sue Bailey: gwr1u3a@gmail.com
8 Mar
Depart Sunday 8 March
7:00am Central Station Bay 9 Western Forecourt
7:45am Railway Street Pennant Hills
8:00am Fitzwilliam Street Parramatta
Return Friday 13 March
5:00pm Fitzwilliam Street Parramatta
5:30pm Railway Street Pennant Hills
6:00pm Central Station Bay 8 Western Forecourt
Cost (subject to 2026 coach fuel costs) $1,735 pp for 40+, $1,770 pp for 35 - 39, $1,805 pp for 30 - 34
Single supplement $400 (limited rooms)
We will stay at the Coachman’s Motel and Eden Motel. Over the week, we will explore the Sapphire Coast whilst visiting the village of Central Tilba, the seaside village of Bermagui, Cobargo Farm, Merimbula Aquarium, Tathra and the Killer Whale Museum in Eden. On our journey home, we will take a cruise on Twofold Bay, plus visit the World War 2 Operations Bunker at Mallacoota and Mogo Zoo.
Bookings for Sydney u3a members: Bookings OPEN on Monday 14 JULY 2025 (non-member spouses/partners accepted).
Bookings: Diana Pine 4861 3721. Method for payment given at time of booking.
Deposit: $100 must be paid by Friday 12 September 2025
NB: Balance must be paid by Friday 30 January 2026
Cancellation Policy: Travel insurance is recommended. Full details of cancellation provided at 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.
Organiser and Bookings: Diana Pine: dmpine@bigpond.net.au 0419237893
President: Jennifer Waldron jenniferwaldron2@gmail.com 0417 131 772
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.
137 Victoria St Parking available Wheelchair access Games Bridge BRIDGE FOR THE LESS COMPETITIVE (max 37)
Every Tuesday from 1 July 13:00 to 16:00
Brush up your bridge skills in our informal group in a friendly non-competitive atmosphere. All levels of skill welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Cherie Lucas: harpo2021@gmail.com 0417 977 200
5-7 Charlotte St
2nd Level. (lift available) Parking onsite
Qigong Tai chi
QIGONG, FAN, AND COLLABORATIVE TAI CHI (max15)
Every Tuesday from 1 July 10:30 to 12:00
Excluding school holidays
Class begins with Ba Duan Jin, 24 Form and 28 Form Tai Chi, followed by QiGong. Experience in Tai Chi required.
Leaders: Lois Knight and Deborah Gracic
Bookings: Deborah Gracic: deb.gracic@gmail.com
Relaxation Exercise
COOPERATIVE RELAXATION AND STRETCHING ACTIVITIES (max 15)
Every Wednesday from 2 July 10:00 to 12:00
Excluding school holidays
This course is for exercise in a collaborative atmosphere. Participants need to have a good level of strength and balance.
Leader: Lois Knight
Bookings: Margaret Quinn: marg.terry@bigpond.com
Dance SALSA PLUS MORE
Every Thursday from 3 July 11:00 to 12:30
Excluding school holidays
Join us for some fun and fitness through dancing. No partners required. Start with gentle warm up exercises and basic Salsa; move at your own pace. Later explore other Latin/Ballroom dances with DanceSport registered coach.
Leader and Bookings: Nazni Farooq: naz_studies@yahoo.com 0491 683 837
Qigong
COLLABORATIVE QIGONG (max 15)
Every Friday from 4 July 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 4 July 10:30 to 12:30
Excluding school holidays
We look at how English works, focusing on a topic of interest to the group. We read aloud, discuss pronunciation, word meanings, spelling, grammar and current idioms. A relaxed way to practise and improve your English with a friendly group.
Leader and Bookings: Janet Egan: janet.egan@gmail.com 0415 133 994
92 Shaftesbury Rd parking onsite, train station nearby
Language Japanese JAPANESE FOR BEGINNERS
Every Tuesday from 1 July 10:00 to 12:00
Excluding school holidays
The course caters for beginners and also those with a little more language experience. The course includes conversation, culture, shared travel experiences and hiragana script.
Leader: Haruko Sageman-Johansson and Jan O’Loughlin
Bookings: Maria Daniele: maria.daniele3@gmail.com 0414 560 951
Movies
CLASSIC MOVIES
Alternate Wednesdays from 2 July 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
Bookings: Anne Hall: annenhall@gmail.com 0419 017 364
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
INVESTMENT DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Thursdays from 3 July 09:30 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: Gregory Buriak: buriak@optusnet.com.au 0422 599 417
Discussion Group
SOCIAL ISSUES AND CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 22)
Alternate Fridays from 4 July 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
Cnr Burwood Rd and George St train station nearby
Current Affairs
DISCUSSION GROUP CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 20)
Every Monday from 7 July 10:00 to 12:00
We are a friendly group who discuss current affairs topics nominated by our members in turn. We allow issues and context to be fully explored with no topic out of bounds. Our discussions are always conducted with respect and sensitivity.
Leader and Bookings: John Neely: johnwilliamneely@gmail.com 0418 471 183
Sociology History
SOME VERY SURPRISING HISTORIES
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 10:00 to 12:00 You will be astonished at the unsuspected history of such things as alcohol, diet and sport amongst much else. An engaging and stimulating course. Leader: Frank Wilson Bookings: Kerry Brand: gbennell4@gmail.com 0431 598 106
22 Church St
Parking available
Music Recorder
RECORDER GROUP
Every Tuesday from 1 July 10:30 to 12:30
Excluding school holidays
A long-established friendly group. We perform a wide variety of music at intermediate level (not for beginners). Lunch afterwards at Burwood RSL.
Leader and Bookings: David Young: dy4health@gmail.com 0414 249 618
Language Mandarin MANDARIN CHINESE CONVERSATION *NEW* (max 15)
Every Wednesday from 2 July 10:30 to 12:00
For returned expats from Mandarin speaking regions, retired Mandarin teachers and other Mandarin speakers who like to maintain and improve their Mandarin. Focusing on conversational Mandarin. Members are expected to be actively involved in contributing ideas and material for discussion.
Leader and Bookings: Chen Xing: chenxing@bigpond.net.au 0409 468 143
Cinema Discussion Group Movies POPCORN ANYONE? (max 15)
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 13:30 to 15:30
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
Suite 502 Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts
280 Pitt Street
train station, metro station, light rail stop and bus stop nearby Kerri Thompson kerrithmpsn052@gmail.com
Language French ONGOING INTERMEDIATE FRENCH (max 14)
Every Wednesday from 2 July 12:00 to 14:00
Three years of study and a good sense of humour required. Emphasis on speaking and reading with a French accent, writing accurately and applying grammar rules in a friendly atmosphere.
Leader and Bookings: Annelise Karpos: annelisekarpos6@gmail.com 0410 404 940
Nature
WALKING - TALKING NATURE JOURNAL
Every Wednesday from 2 July 14:30 to 15:30
Excluding school holidays
Discussion of recent examples from the local Nature environment (via video) will prompt a boost to our ability to think straight, talk sense, nurture Nature and ourselves. Our journals will record not only the facts but importantly our personal responses.
Leader: Penelope Layton-Caisley penelgc@gmail.com
Bookings: Beena Dhupelia: beena.dhupelia@outlook.com
Art Galleries Art Appreciation DECONSTRUCTING CONTEMPORARY ART (max 25)
Every Thursday from 3 July 13:30 to 15:00
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: Wendy Fraser
Bookings: Marilyn Hunnisett mhunnisett@bigpond.com
Book Group
PATRICK O’BRIAN’S AUBREY-MATURIN NOVELS (max 12)
First Friday of the month from 4 July 13:30 to 15:30 Join Captain Jack Aubrey a naturalist, intelligence agent and ship’s doctor, Stephen Maturin in the era of the great sailing ships. Naval battles, Admiralty politics, espionage and the shifting allegiances of the Napoleonic wars keep our heroes on their toes.
Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink: rasberryink@icloud.com
Cinema Movies
FILM APPRECIATION (max 18)
Alternate Mondays from 7 July 13:30 to 15:30 Do you enjoy contemporary cinema and sharing your ideas? Members of this group research a film and lead the discussion three to four times a year. We also look at issues, trends and news in the film world.
Leader and Bookings: Susanne de Ferranti: susannedeferranti@gmail.com
Book Group
CITY READING GROUP (max 12)
Every second and fourth Friday from 11 July 13:30 to 15:30
Reading in a circle is very satisfying! Focusing on books well known but not always read, join us as we take turns in reading, then together discussing and rediscovering these treasures. Currently reading: Montaigne, The Essays.
Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink: rasberryink@icloud.com
Writing CITY WRITING CLUB (max 20)
Alternate Mondays from 14 July 13:30 to 15:30
Life is a collection of stories often buried away. Our supportive group will write short pieces that can include anecdotes, verse, interesting facts or precious moments from our lives. Sharpen your pencils and come along with me on this journey.
Leader and Bookings: Patricia Thornton: bornbinkp@hotmail.com 0425 233 169
TUESDAYS IN THE CITY (max 33)
Most Tuesdays from 22 July 13:30 to 15:30
Bookings: Veronica Yeung: sanpuiman@hotmail.com
Health Medical
1. Drugs that affect mood and behaviour (Part 1) (max 33)
22 July
Learn how alcohol, cannabis and benzodiazepines (Valiumlike drugs) work in the body and the dangers associated with their use.
Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein
Medical Health
2. Drugs that affect mood and behaviour (Part 2) (max 33)
29 July
‘Ice’, ecstasy and cocaine are just some of the illicit substances causing problems today. How do they work and what dangers are associated with their use?
Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein
Medical Health
3. HIV and prevention - dental health and periodontal disease (max 33)
5 Aug
My HIV work in Sydney, San Francisco & Asia-Pacific 19842016; and Dental Hygienist work in the UK and Sydney – enlightenment on Caries and Periodontal Disease.
Presenter: Susan Solomon
Psychology
4. Optimists and pessimists and how it shapes our world (max 33)
12 Aug
Why are some of us optimists and others pessimists? What forms our view of the world? Can the two types get along? Can we change?
Presenter: Lanning Bennett
Information Technology
5. Generative AI - ChatGPT and other AI tools (max 33)
19 Aug
What is Generative AI? How does it work? How can I use it in my daily life? What are its implications? Where is it headed?
Presenter: Sean FitzGerald
Art Famous People
6. Jeffery Smart: Australian artist (max 33)
26 Aug
Jeffrey Smart was as an important Australian artist, with several paintings in the NSW art gallery. We’ll view many of his works and learn about his life.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Poetry
7. The Poetry connection (max 33)
2 Sept
How the figurative language of Poetry can re connect us with the inner life of imagination, to re enchant the world.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
France
8. Life in the Perigord, France (max 33)
9 Sept
This beautiful part of France is home to painted caves, medieval castles, foie gras and fine wines. It seduced the speaker into restoring a chateau.
Presenter: John Walsh
History Technology
9. The three Industrial Revolutions and the impending fourth (max 33)
16 Sept
Over 300 years, there have been three industrial revolutions. Technology is a major determinant of history, each industrial revolution has contributed to our lives today.
Presenter: Don Napper
Famous People
10. Winston - 90 years of blood, sweat, tears and toil (max 33)
23 Sept
Premature baby, aristocrat, war correspondent, army officer, husband, father, artist, MP, PM, one of History’s top achievers. He was amazing.
Presenter: Geoff Davidson
Art
11. Australian art after 1900 - making the modern popular (max 33)
30 Sept
Interests of Australian art after 1900 moved from the sunlit bush, drovers and miners to city scapes and urban occupations. New subjects found new audiences.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Famous People Science
12. Towards women in science- from antiquity to now (max 33)
7 Oct
A time-line in the history and achievements of some inspirational and notable women from around the world who have made significant contributions to science.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Travel
13. High seas and high tea (max 33) 14 Oct
Vicki will briefly talk about the pristine environment of Antarctica and its huge waves, with stunning photographs, followed by afternoon tea – mainly savoury items.
Presenter: Vicki Moss
Famous People
14. Reinventing Marcos- from dictator to hero (max 33) 21 Oct
Social media disinformation helped the son of former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos become President in 2022. Former foreign correspondent, Keith Dalton remembers an autocrat.
Presenter: Keith Dalton
History Australia History Culture Genealogy
15. The Italian immigrant story reimagined (max 33)
28 Oct
The experience of Italian migrants to Australia, including WWI & WWII. Fascism, Crete, the Gustav line, internment as ‘aliens’ and working in Nth Queensland cane fields.
Presenter: Angelina Mastrippolito
Maritime
16. Title stories of Sydney Harbour (max 33) 11 Nov
This session brings to life two stories from Sydney Harbour – a naval ‘battle’ from the 1920s plus a helicopter crash at Circular Quay in 1966.
Presenter: Peter Hobbins
History
17. A History of the future (max 33)
18 Nov
Over many centuries, people have predicted how we will live in the future. Many of these predictions have been accurate, others wide of the mark.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Crime
18. Deported: passport not valid for USSR (max 33) 25 Nov
In 1964, Jan attempted to smuggle a Hungarian artist into Austria. Hear Jan speak about her arrest and three months in a Czechoslovakian prison.
Presenter: Jan Wilson
Investment
SUPERANNUATION DEMYSTIFIED
Alternate Thursdays (4 sessions) from 24 July 13:30 to 15:30
Angie Mastrippolito has recently retired after 40 years in the industry. This is your chance to hear her inside knowledge and pick her brain on all things super. This will not be personal advice in any shape just general knowledge improvement.
Leader and Bookings: Angelina Mastrippolito: amastrip@outlook.com 0419 891 661
Genealogy
OPENING THE DOOR TO FAMILY HISTORY
Alternate Thursdays (6 sessions) from 18 Sept 13:30 to 15:30
Glenn presents ideas for researching family history, describing six fascinating stories about his own family, and the different approaches needed to research them. Each week we will discuss the avenues for exploring the ancestors of your own family.
Leader and Bookings: Glenn Martin: glennpmartin@optusnet.com.au 0421 440 557
186 Glebe Point Rd Cnr Wigram Rd Benledi room
Language Japanese JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE
Every Thursday from 3 July 10:00 to 12:00
This ongoing class caters to those who have studied Japanese before, or have lived in Japan, and are not complete beginners. We practise simple conversations, learn new kanji characters, and study reading texts, poetry and proverbs and other interesting material.
Leaders: Nobuyo Williams and Haruka Sageman-Johansson
Bookings: Jan O’loughlin: janmi333@hotmail.com 0422 637 385
Book Group
FIRST FRIDAY BOOK GROUP
First Friday of the month from 4 July 10:00 to 12:00
Favourite books are chosen by members for discussion by the group. New members very welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Jan Macindoe: jnmacindoe@gmail.com 0424 537 557
184 Glebe Point Rd bus stop nearby, 10 min walk to light rail
Crosswords SOLVING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS - BEGINNERS
First and Third Thursdays of the Month from 3 July 12:00 to 14:00
Interested in solving cryptic crosswords, to learn or need a refresher? Learn tricks that make them easier to solve, then solve a crossword together. Bring writing materials. $5 contribution for worksheets per semester. A continuing group but new members welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Genevieve Healy: gen@nghealy.com 0418 404 810
160 St Johns Rd Wheelchair access
Craft
PORTABLE CRAFT AND CHAT *NEW*
Alternate Thursdays from 3 July 10:00 to 12:00
Join our friendly group for craft and chat. Bring along any portable craft you enjoy or might like some help with: woolrelated stitching, origami, drawing/colouring or anything else. Tea/coffee facilities available but BYO ingredients and cup. Leader and Bookings: Genevieve Healy: gen@nghealy.com 0418 404 810
Music Ukulele STRUMMIN’ TOGETHER AGAIN
Alternate Thursdays from 10 July 14:00 to 15:30
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
Drawing Sketching
DRAWING/FIGURE SKETCHING (max 15)
Alternate Thursdays from 10 July 10:00 to 12:00
Still life and landscape: draw what you see and sense, not what you know. Figure sketching: build up the main foundation of drawing and sense of form and construction. Doodling: create a picture to find an interesting way of drawing.
Leader: Kylac Phung
Bookings: Quyen Nha Phung: quyen088@gmail.com 0411 546 884
345 Glebe Point Rd
Fireside Lounge, ground floor. Street parking
Philosophy
PHILOSOPHY IN THE PUB (max 10)
Alternate Tuesdays from 8 July 15:00 to 17:00
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 0422 576 177
23 Norton St Italian Forum (Piazza level). Parking available Wheelchair access
FRIDAY MORNINGS AT THE LIBRARY (max 30)
Alternate Fridays from 25 July 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: Janice Millard: rjmillard5@icloud.com 0419 203 361
Music Cinema Movies
1. Mozart at the movies (max 30)
25 July
Mozart’s compositions provide soundtracks 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 and John Flint
Astronomy History Australia
2. From the First Fleet to the Harbour Bridge (max 30)
8 Aug
Join us as historical detectives on the trail of William Dawes, astronomer, engineer, and surveyor, as well as Australia’s unsung Founding Father Samuel Ward Flinders and H.M.S. Reliance.
Travel
4. The Silver Buckle, a memoir (max 30)
5 Sept
The Silver Buckle is a memoir of 3 years as a trainee nurse in London during the “swinging 60s”. The laughter, tears and sights and smells never forgotten.
Presenter: Eira Bish Battaglia
Maritime
5. Mysteries of the deep blue sea (max 30)
19 Sept
Humans have explored the landmass of the Earth extensively, but the sea remains a mystery to a great extent. Let us unravel some unknowns.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake (Das)
Geography
6. Journey to the centre of the earth (max 30)
17 Oct
We know a lot about the heavens, but what lies beneath our feet is shrouded in mystery. Let’s learn about our planet, the volcanos, tsunamis and more.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake (Das)
Crime
7. Money Laundering (max 30)
31 Oct
What is money laundering and what is the potential on both the Australian and global economy? Hear from a professional “anti-money-laundering” specialist.
Presenter: Elizabeth Goodbody
Indigineous Australians
8. Australian Indigenous sites (max 30)
14 Nov
A well-illustrated introduction to Budj Bim in Victoria, listed in 2019, and Murujuga in Western Australia, to be assessed by the World Heritage Committee in 2025, almost certainly to be listed.
Presenter: Graeme Aplin
Sculpture
9. Sculpture in Sydney (max 30)
28 Nov
Sydney is full of sculpture, streetside, parkside and undercover. The talk will take us on a voyage of discovery of works both loved and ignored.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Literature Language English
10. History through nursery rhymes (max 30)
12 Dec
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
Presenter: Richard de Grijs
Photography
3. Visual literacy in the age of digital screen (max 30)
22 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
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
156 Norton St
Philosophy
THE ROYAL PHILOSOPHERS THURSDAY
DISCUSSION GROUP *NEW* (max 16)
Every second Thursday from 10 July 14:00 to 16:00
For members of diverse backgrounds and beliefs to discuss big ideas. We do this in a casual, comfortable setting, over a beer, glass of wine or a coffee. The point is to have fun, engaging in respectful and enriching discussions. Everyone is encouraged to research topics and take turns in leading discussions.
Leader and Bookings: Gavin Crawford: gavinhamiltoncrawford@gmail.com 0452 473 989
313 Marrickville Rd
Book Group
THE BIG ISSUES BOOK CLUB
Second Thursday of each month from 10 July 14:00 to 15:30
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
Art VISITING REGIONAL AND SUBURBAN GALLERIES
Saturday twice a month from 5 July 10:30 to 14:30
Travel by public transport. Join our lively group on visits to regional and suburban galleries to view a variety of exhibitions, optional lunch.
Leader and Bookings: Joanne Gordon: joannegordon@bigpond.com 0418 224 211
Outdoors Eating Out
LUNCH OUT AND ABOUT (max 20)
Second Tuesday of the month from 8 July 12:00 to 14:30
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
Games Pétanque PÉTANQUE GROUP
Every second Monday from 14 July 14:00 to 16:00
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.
Leaders: Linda Larsen and Peter Neale
Bookings: Peter J Neale: peter.neale909@gmail.com 0403 366 613
Outdoors Eating Out
MUNCH ON BRUNCH
Third Thursday of the month from 17 July
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. Details of the cafe, meeting place and times will be made available by email to those who book.
Leader and Bookings: Beatrice Scheepers: egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004
0419 017 364
Book Group
INNER WEST BOOK GROUP (max 12)
First Wednesday of the month from 2 July 14:00 to 16:00
Enhance your enjoyment of reading by sharing your ideas with others. Once a month we will read and discuss a book, choosing from a wide range of literature both fiction and non-fiction. At the July meeting we will discuss The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot.
Leader and Bookings: Kris Clarke: clarketk@gmail.com 0405 245 048
Macarthur Avenue
Street parking
Tai Chi
TAI CHI (max 25)
Every Thursday from 3 July 09:30 to 11:00
Excluding 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 0413 149 938
20 Brett St On-site parking
Cinema Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)
Fourth Tuesday of the month from 22 July 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 0402 258 996
608 Darling St (corner Nelson St) Wheelchair access
Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 8)
Every Tuesday from 1 July 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
Language French ADVANCED FRENCH DISCUSSION (max 12)
Every Tuesday from 1 July 11:30 to 13:00
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
Discussion Group DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)
Every Monday from 7 July 10:30 to 12:30
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
50 Redmyre Rd Street parking Croquet
TRY CROQUET - BE SURPRISED! (max 12)
Two Fridays in August from 1 Aug 09:30 to 11:30 The game of croquet is low impact, strategic, mentally stimulating and offers effective yet gentle exercise on well maintained lawns. All equipment supplied and lessons from qualified coaches. Dress code is casual with flat soled shoes or joggers.
Bookings: Anne Hall: annenhall@gmail.com 0419 017 364
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.
59B Oxford St
Book Group
EASTERN CRIME READERS GROUP
Third Tuesday of every month from 15 July 10:15 to 12:00 The group discusses a wide range of crime fiction and tries to select the best titles from international and Australian authors.
Leader and Bookings: Sandra See: sandra.l.see@gmail.com 0412 044 811
32-48 Denison St
Book Group
WAVERLEY BOOK GROUP
First Thursday of every month from 3 July 14:00 to 16:00 Everyone suggests a book they have read or would recommend. New members very welcome. Leader and Bookings: Jennifer Woodroffe: jenniferwoodroffe@hotmail.com 0418 404 881
Mathematics MATHS IS FOR EVERYONE (max 8)
Alternate Mondays from 4 Aug 10:30 to 12:00 Each meeting presents a talk on a mathematical topic. After a break, a discussion of some puzzles which will be circulated a week before the meeting. No knowledge beyond school level is assumed.
Leader and Bookings: Andrew Holt: aholt171@gmail.com 0405 534 639
40-42 Arden St
On street parking, buses nearby
Discussion Group
CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Tuesdays from 1 July 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
Bookings: Marise Segelov: marisesegelov@gmail.com 0410 514 866
Cinema Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Tuesdays from 8 July 10:00 to 12:00
Each fortnight we see two films in the current cinema release. Share your opinion on acting, characters, plots, cinematography.
Bookings: via Leader only
Leader: Graham Blazey (preferred contact: 9365 1961)
25 Rowe St Woollahra wheelchair access, Bondi Junction train and bus stops nearby
FRIDAYS AT COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA (NO BOOKING REQUIRED)
Every Friday from 25 July 10:30 to 12:00
Art
1. Australian Women Artists 1880-1950
25 July
The works of modernist Australian women artists from 18801950 are now, quite rightly, often exhibited and celebrated. The talk fills in the very rich history of the period. Presented by: Ann Sutherland
Computers Technology
2. Seniors and Technology
1 Aug
The following areas will be examined: scam awareness, computer updates, phone updates, security. How to Zoom.
Q & A: ask Colin anything.
Presenter: Colin McCabe
History
3. Troy: History, mystery and myth.
8 Aug
The Trojan War, a sequence of events between the Greeks, Trojans, gods, and mortals has inspired countless interpretations.
Presenter: Robijn Alexanda
Art Photography
4. Caravaggio
15 Aug
How a radical painter of the 16th century changed Italian Baroque Art and how understanding his images can improve photography.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
Opera Music Appreciation
5. The Phoenix from the ashes
22 Aug
Venice’s beautiful opera theatre La Fenice (Italian for Phoenix) has been destroyed by fire three times and last re-opened in 2003. It has premiered operas by Rossini, Verdi, Wagner and Britten. Musical extracts and film clips accompany this presentation.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
History
6. Noble Fragments
29 Aug
The story of the antiquarian bookseller who broke up a Gutenberg Bible.
Presenter: Michael Visontay
Politics Current Affairs
7. Modern democratic governments
5 Sept
The global custodians of ‘democratic freedom’ insist they are the ‘true’ representatives of their people. But whose interests do they actually represent?
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Science Famous People
8. Marie Curie
12 Sept
Five people in her family shared four Nobel prizes. She is the only person to have won Nobels in two scientific fields (Physics and Chemistry); for showing that radioactivity is a fixed property of certain elements and for discovering one such element, radium.
Presenter: Dr Karkenahalli Srinivas
Current Affairs
9. A poacher and a gamekeeper
19 Sept
I spent much of my long academic career in the public domain, dealing with chemical control issues. Starting as a consumer advocate (poacher) and ending as a government chemical regulator (gamekeeper) and absorbing very important lessons from many people along that journey.
Presenter: Emeritus Prof Ben Selinger AM
History Maritime
10. Remarkable women in the age of sail
26 Sept
Between 1600 and 1900, some women masqueraded as men and went to sea, working as sailors, captains, marines, botanists, stewards, soldiers, shipwrights or travel writers.
Presenter: Gavin Crawford
Literature
11. What is it like to read Korean crime fiction?
3 Oct
Let’s explore where the movies and TV shows came from. You will be introducd to Jong You-Jong and her book ‘The good son’; Un Su Kin’ The Plotters’; Gu Byeong-mo ‘The Old Women with the knife’; June-Her ‘The Silence of Bones’.
Presenter: Sandra See
Nutrition History Science
12. Bread
10 Oct
Why is bread our staple food and a symbol of our civilisation? We look at the history of innovation in grain breeding, harvesting and processing with a focus on bread produced in Australia.
History
13. History of the Queen Victoria Building
17 Oct
Presenter: Natalie Cody
Health
14. Supporting persons living with dementia and their carers
24 Oct
This talk is based on interdisciplinary research carried out by the speaker and colleagues, aimed at understanding complex issues and advising governments on implementing person-centered care.
Presenter: Prof Lynn Chenoweth
Health
15. AI in health care
31 Oct
How applying artificial intelligence to health care could improve diagnostics, the choice and timing of treatment and better use of clinician time.
Presenter: Andrew Holt
Architecture
16. Frank Lloyd Wright
7 Nov
Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture career spanned almost seven decades. At times a polarising figure, he is regarded as one of the great architects of the 20th Century. The Imperial Hotel in Tokyo is considered one of the most important designs among his almost 1000 projects.
Presenter: Larisa Sarkadi
Health
17. Hearing and Brain Health
14 Nov
A talk about the link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive decline, which is surprisingly unknown in the community.
Presenter: Andrew Campbell, Audiologist
Past Career
18. A teacher for 44 years
21 Nov
We all remember our school years. However, I never left school and ended up spending 57 years there!
Presenter: Michael Gold
Legal
19. Missing, presumed dead
28 Nov
Dorothy Davis and Kerry Whelan went missing in the late 1990s. Mark Tedeschi KC talks about the case in his book Missing, Presumed Dead.
Presenter: Mark Tedeschi AM KC
Past Career
20. Life Stories
5 Dec
Jutta and Ian will talk about their careers: Jutta will talk about her early life in Europe before coming to Australia and her career as a model. Ian will talk about his international career as a hotelier.
Presenters: Jutta and Ian
Presenter: Debbie Rudder
any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
189 Underwood St (cnr George St) bus stop nearby
Language French FRENCH CONVERSATION (Advanced) (max 20)
Every Thursday from 3 July 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.
ALL BOOKINGS VIA THE BOOKING SECRETARY
Bookings: Paula Macintosh 0425 074 488 pmackint2@gmail.com
Book Group
ROSE BAY BOOK GROUP
First Wednesday of every month from 2 July 14:00 to 16:00
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: jannew2@optusnet.com.au 0414 686 844
Music Appreciation DISCOVERING FINE MUSIC (Randwick)
Alternate Mondays from 14 July 14:00 to 16:00 We listen to compositions from the great masters, focusing on their lesser- known works, as well as composers who are often overlooked today. We also include Australian composers and performers. Group participation warmly welcomed as are new members.
Leader and Bookings: Julie Reid: julievreid@gmail.com 0411 575 157
Book Group
NORTH BONDI BOOK GROUP (max 10)
Third Wednesday of each month from 16 July 14:00 to 16:00
Members share 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: Heather Proudfoot: heather.proudfoot@gmail.com 0422 297 520
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.
184 Gannons Rd, South
Genealogy
FAMILY HISTORY BASICS - GETTING STARTED
*NEW* (max 10)
5 Aug 09:45 to 14:30
We will look at Getting Started and Staying Organised, using FamilySearch, Ancestry, FindMyPast and Trove. Format allows for questions and discussion. Day consists of 3 sessions - please bring morning tea and lunchtea/coffee supplied.
Leader: Carol Cronan carolcronan@gmail.com 0468 515 670
Bookings: Carole Goodyer: goodycj43@gmail.com 0411 529 245
Enquiries Judith Breen: breenjju3a@gmail.com
6 Surf Rd
Upstairs Lecture or Activity Room, lift access. Close to train station
History Ancient
OVERVIEW OF ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL HISTORY (max 50)
First and Third Tuesday from 1 July 10:00 to 12:00 (Not in school holidays).
An overview of the rise and fall of civilisations and empires from ancient, medieval, to modern times. Class members are encouraged to participate and/or contribute to the group.
Leader: Olga Bondarenko
Bookings: Carmen Izquierdo: marycarmeniz@hotmail.com 0412 846 820
Literature
READING AND DISCUSSING SHAKESPEARE (max 20)
First and Third Tuesdays from 1 July 14:00 to 16:00
Join in reading aloud the great plays and discussing their plots, characters, etc. The title of the play will be advised after you book. Please bring a copy of the play.
Enquiries: 8521 7540
Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund: r.englund@optusnet.com.au
Travel
ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS (max 50)
First and Third Wednesdays from 2 July 10:00 to 12:00 (Not in 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
Bookings: Kathleen Churcher: kchurcher2@hotmail.com 0433 140 900
Technology
DISCUSSIONS ABOUT MODERN TECHNOLOGY
*NEW* (max 20)
First Wednesday of the month from 2 July 13:00 to 15:00
This course is designed to discuss current and future technologies such as computers, tablets and phones but may also include other technologies. This is an overview and does not involve teaching how to use specific operating systems or programmes.
No prior experience necessary.
Leader and Bookings: Peter Day: jp_day@outlook.com 0407 787 721
Cinema Movies AT THE CINEMA - FOREIGN FILMS (max 60)
First and Third Thursday from 3 July 01:30 to 16:00
Experience and discuss some of the best foreign films (with subtitles). A program will be available at the first session. Enquiries: 8521 7540
Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund: r.englund@optusnet.com.au
Music
HISTORY OF ROCK MUSIC FROM 1960s ONWARDS (max 40)
First Thursday every month from 3 July 10:00 to 12:30 (Not in school holidays)
This course explores the fabulous music and careers of world-famous bands, solo artists and albums from the 1960s to the present day. Class members are encouraged to participate and contribute to the group by giving a presentation. We mainly use YouTube, DVD’s and CD’s.
Leader: Robin Hill
Bookings: Peter Campbell: icampbellpeter@gmail.com 0406 660 435
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Discussion Group
OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP B (max 15)
First and Third Friday from 4 July 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 0423 532 582
Trivia Games
TRIVIA FOR GROWN UPS *NEW* (max 30)
First Friday every month from 4 July 13:00 to 15:00
Do you enjoy pub trivia but find the questions are aimed at kids? Join our monthly trivia. Our trivia covers history, sport, pop culture, science, literature and more, but with questions aimed at you, not 20 year olds.
Leader and Bookings: Bradley Burridge: burridge07@gmail.com 0419 601 205
Music Appreciation
APPRECIATION OF CLASSICAL MUSIC (max 50)
Second Wednesday every month from 9 July 10:00 to 12:30
An invitation to all those who wish to come along and share in an appreciation for classical music. Each month the program will feature part documentary, part concert, some fun times but always entertaining.
Leader: Margaret Durie
Bookings: Christine Horrocks: christine.anne7@outlook.com 0438 614 087
MONDAY PRESENTATIONS - TOPICS OF INTEREST (max 65)
Mondays from 21 July 10:30 to 12:00
Upstairs lecture room
Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com
Craft History Culture
1. A Journey Through Quilt Making (max 65)
21 July
Trace the history of textiles, machines, quilts, military, traditional and contemporary. Hear how the Amish used patterns in quilts to guide slaves to freedom along an “Underground Railroad”. Look at Australia’s oldest quilts, coverlets and waggas made by convicts, pioneers and stockmen.
Presenter: Elisa Beecham
Science
2. What is DNA? What does it do and how does it do it? (max 65)
11 Aug
Presentation includes general topics of interest such as forensics, nature vs nurture, cancer, gene editing, synthetic biology, DNA as a storage system, ancient DNA and de-extinction. Some of the general topics are very controversial for society.
Presenter: Peter Day
Music History
3. Stories Behind the Lyrics (max 65)
15 Sept
Entertaining audio and visual journeys into the stories behind some well-known songs.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Current Affairs Education
4. Search Dogs Sydney (max 65)
13 Oct
Highly qualified Search Technicians are partnered with expertly trained search dogs required for wilderness operations, disasters and casualty events.
Presenter: Chris D’Arcy
History Culture
5. History Through Nursery Rhymes (max 65)
24 Nov
Reveals English history hidden in Nursery Rhymes. Why was a baby on a tree top? Who was Humpty Dumpty? From the book, Rhyme and Reason.
Presenter: Susan Ackroyd
Law Crime
6. Kidnapped (max 65)
1 Dec
When Graeme Thorne was kidnapped in 1960, Australia was gripped with fear. Hear the story of Australia’s only known kidnapping of a child for ransom. Learn how this crime was planned, committed, and the investigation mounted to find the perpetrator.
Presenter: Mark Tedeschi AM KC
Art Appreciation
ART HISTORY (max 40)
Second and Fourth Tuesdays from 22 July 10:00 to 12:00 (Not in 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
Bookings: Teresa Lamberton: teresalamberton@hotmail.com 0414 425 353
Discussion Group
NOT A BOOK CLUB *NEW* (max 15)
Fourth Tuesday of every month from 22 July 13:00 to 15:00
Have you ever listened to an interesting Podcast, watched an amazing film or TV show, read an excellent article or been to a show and wanted to find like-minded persons to discuss what made it great? This is the course for you!
Leader and Bookings: Bradley Burridge: burridge07@gmail.com 0419 601 205
Discussion Group
OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP A (max 15)
Second and Fourth Wednesdays from 23 July 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 0423 532 582
Language Italy
ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (max 15)
Every Thursday from 24 July 10:00 to 12:00 (Not in school holidays).
This course needs an Intermediate level of Italian. We explore Italian culture through conversation, with stories, songs, poems and some grammar. We sometimes discuss Italian films viewed at home.
Please contact Judy Bassford 9527 2931 to discuss the course and your level of Italian.
Leader: Aurelia Pompili
Bookings: Judy Bassford judybassford7@gmail.com
Cinema
WHAT MAKES GREAT MOVIES GREAT (max 20)
Fourth Thursday each month from 24 July 13:00 to 15:00
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 0423 532 582
Games
BRAIN GAMES (max 20)
Second and Fourth Fridays from 25 July 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
Book Group Literature
GREAT BOOKS, GREAT MINDS *NEW* (max 15)
Third Friday every month from 15 Aug 13:00 to 15:00
We will delve into the world of great books from around the world, reading a classic book each month. The course uses video presentations from the University of Melbourne. Books include: Great Gatsby, My Brother Jack, Memoirs of a Dutiful Daughter, Disgrace and Old Age. Lively, stimulating discussion is encouraged. Leader and Bookings: Victoria Clay: vandrclay@gmail.com
Singing
SINGING FOR FUN *NEW* (max 20)
Fourth Friday of the month from 22 Aug 13:00 to 15:00 Enjoy singing? Enjoy being social? Then come along to Singing for Fun! No need to read music, we sing-a-long from subtitles on uploaded videos. We will be taking a musical jaunt through the 1920s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60s, looking at the influences that shaped the music of those decades.
Enquiries: 0438 299 108
Leader: Barbara Adams
Bookings: Janice Day: sozuga@bigpond.com 0437 696 325
39 Gymea Bay Rd
Art appreciation
DISCOVERING ART (max 30)
First and Third Tuesday from 1 July 10:00 to 12:00 (Not in school holidays).
This class will study and discuss a range of art-related topics, including architecture, artists, art movements and much, much more. Gallery visits are included. Leader and Bookings: Margaret Wilkes: margiewilkes@live.com.au 0407 958 924
Drawing DRAWING WITH COLOUR (max 20)
Every Tuesday from 1 July 13:00 to 15:00 (Not in school holidays).
Member-driven art classes where we employ various styles and mediums, such as water colour, pastel, pen and ink, graphite and charcoal. Details for each class is emailed weekly to members. For course availability, select the ‘Contact’ option to discuss with the Booker.
Leader: Christine Horrocks
Bookings: Kerrie Gowen: kerriegowen65@icloud.com 0409 457 028
Dance
MIDDLE EASTERN DANCING (max 30)
Every Monday from 7 July 13:00 to 14:00 (Not in school holidays)
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
Bookings: Wendy Lobwein: wendy.rae.lob@hotmail.com 0404 348 974
57 Manchester RD
Archaeology
ASPECTS OF ARCHAEOLOGY (max 16)
First and Third Wednesday from 2 July 14:00 to 16:00 There is a video each meeting on archaeology followed by readings from articles relating to archaeology.
Leader: Mary Armstrong
Enquiries: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com
Sketching Urban Sketching
SHIRE SKETCHING - THURSDAYS AND SATURDAYS (max 40)
3 July 10:00 to 12:00
Thursdays Gymea Tradies. Saturdays locations vary. (Not in school holidays)
Learn OBSERVATIONAL SKETCHING to illustrate YOUR JOURNAL from YOUR environment, in watercolours. Every Thursday at Gymea Tradies. Saturday excursions are the outdoor component of the Thursday SHIRE SKETCHING class. Come sketching to really observe our beautiful shire. Occasionally join other urban sketch groups at various locations. Beginners and experienced sketchers welcome.
Leader: Peggy Annabel
Bookings: Anne O’Donnell: anneodonn@gmail.com 0408 203 205
Language Italian
CONVERSATIONAL ITALIAN (max 25)
Every Wednesday from 13 Aug 11:00 to 13:00 (Not in school holidays)
From beginners Italian, we will continue with extending our knowledge of grammar and sentence structure to become more confident speakers, readers, writers and listeners. furthering our knowledge of Italian language and culture. If you are a beginner, check with our Booker if class is suitable.
Leader: Kylie Archer
Bookings: Nilva Martini: nilvalsim@yahoo.com.au
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
93 Karimbla Rd corner Kiora Road
History Australia
AUSTRALIAN HISTORY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 20)
First and Third Wednesday from 6 Aug 13:30 to 15:30 (Not in 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 and Bookings: Janice Stokes: stokesj@optusnet.com.au 0418 415 249
8-12 Oatley Ave
Discussion Group DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)
Every Monday from 7 July 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
26 Letitia St
Art Craft
OATLEY ART AND CRAFTERS (max 12)
Every Wednesday from 2 July 14:00 to 16:00 (Not in 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: Barbara Adams
Bookings: Maryanne Milligan: maryanne.milligan62@gmail.com 0416 965 736
Walking ENDEAVOUR CAMPUS WALKERS (max 30)
Every Thursday from 3 July (Not in school holidays)
Starting and finishing times vary using public transport and foot. Our walks program indicates degree of difficulty. We invite everyone to organise one walk per semester. Leader: Christine Horrocks
Bookings: June Symes: jsymes6@gmail.com 0408 077 900
Outdoors Eating Out
LUNCH A LOT WITH STYLE (max 25)
First Thursday every month from 3 July 12:00 to 14:30
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 0428 213 040
Walking
WALKING IN SYDNEY AND SURROUNDS (max 35)
Alternate Fridays from 4 July
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 Lamberton: teresalamberton@hotmail.com 0414 425 353
Leader and Bookings: John Lamberton: teresalamberton@hotmail.com 0419 249 711
Walking
SYDNEY STRIDERS (max 35)
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 09:00 to 14:00
Travelling by public transport to a variety of scenic and interesting places around Sydney where we walk on tracks, streets and parks with some bushwalking. We have a planning day each semester and it is hoped that members will volunteer to organise and lead walks in their local area.
Leader: Mary Shannon
Bookings: Lesley Tinker: tinkertogs@gmail.com 0409 395 492
Walking
WALKING AROUND SYDNEY (max 40)
Alternate Friday from 11 July
Meet new people, discover parts of Sydney and surrounds you may never have been to. Walks are accessed via public transport. A mix of urban and bush walking outings of varying difficulty and length planned and lead by members of the group. Starting and finishing times vary.
Leader: Teresa Longbottom
Bookings: Margaret Camilleri: margalexcamilleri@hotmail.com 0400 394 620
Outdoors Eating Out
FLAVOUR OF THE MONTH (max 25)
Second Friday of the month from 11 July 12:00 to 14:00
Travel around Sydney and explore diverse cultures through their cuisines. Each month we enjoy a different national cuisine with lunch at a restaurant. Each individual member takes a turn at choosing the restaurant and organising the booking for the group.
Leader: Cherie Clover
Bookings: Carol Cook: cook44271@gmail.com
Creative Writing
CREATIVE WRITING (South Hurstville) (max 10)
Third Tuesday every month from 15 July 13:30 to 15:00
Elevate your writing to new heights and embark on your creative writing journey while enjoying afternoon tea and meeting new people.
Enquiries: Pat Skinner 9547 0406
Leaders: Cathy Brett and Jennifer Jones
Bookings: Pat Skinner: donleyton10@gmail.com
History Australia
AUSTRALIA OUR LAND (Gymea) (max 10)
Every Wednesday from 23 July 10:00 to 12:00 (Not in school holidays).
Using books and videos from the library we study and discuss the environmental, geographical, historical and cultural aspects of our wonderful country.
Bookings: Trevor Campbell 9525 6970
Leader: Angela Balding: bistenhouse@yahoo.com
72 Connells Point Road
Book Group
AWARD-WINNING BOOKS (max 10)
First Wednesday of the month from 2 July 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: Pat Copping
Bookings: Vivienne Hayle: vhayle@hotmail.com 0420 650 814
7 East Pde
Book Group
CRIME WRITERS BOOK CLUB (max 14)
First and Third Tuesdays. from 1 July 10:15 to 12:00 (Not in 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.
Bookings: Kay Knight: kay.knight223@gmail.com
Belmont St Committee Room.
Book Group
BOOK BANTER (max 12)
First Friday every month from 4 July 13:30 to 15:00 Caringbah
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
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.
Cnr Flushcombe Rd and Alpha St wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby History Genealogy
FAMILY TREE MYSTERIES (max 10)
First and Third Tuesday from 1 July 10:00 to 12:00 Study Room
A support group for those researching their family history. From beginners to those with over thirty years’ experience in genealogy, our friendly group assists each other in solving their genealogy problems.
Leader and Bookings: Roslyn McMullen: rmrfm12@gmail.com 0416 926 032
Alpha St, up ramp wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby Games
FUN AND GAMES (max 20)
Every Friday from 4 July 10:00 to 12:30
A light-hearted course to stretch your mind by playing Scrabble, Rummikub, Canasta, Samba, Mah Jong and other games in a friendly atmosphere. Leader and Bookings: June Keith: junekeith@optusnet.com.au
Alix Scott Community Centre Langshaw Circuit. Parking nearby
Discussion Group Current Affairs ISSUES AND IDEAS
Alternate Tuesdays from 22 July 10:00 to 12:00
A lively discussion group researches and discusses ideas on a variety of contemporary issues, taking turns to lead discussion on a particular issue per session. Occasionally, guest speakers lead the discussion. If required, we deliver on Zoom.
Leader and Bookings: Jim Gray: jcgray011@gmail.com Bookings: John Alban Brockman: alban.kingslangley@gmail.com 0400 422 962
Creative Writing
WRITING CREATIVELY (via email)
Second and Fourth Monday from 14 July
Learn the skills of transforming experiences into prose and poetry in a friendly, supportive group.
All bookings via Booking Secretary.
Leader and Bookings: Glennis Henning: ghenning1940@gmail.com 0411 108 832
62 Railway Rd
Tai Chi
TAI CHI/QIGONG
Every Tuesday from 22 July 09:30 to 11:00 not school holidays
The low-impact nature of these oriental exercisesTai Chi / Qigong - reduces the risk of falls through improving coordination, balance and flexibility. Leader and Bookings: Ellen Pilgrim: stanp@optusnet.com.au 0407 450 291
166 Windsor Rd wheelchair access, parking onsite, bus stop nearby
Discussion Group
A LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)
Alternate Mondays from 14 July 13:30 to 15:30
Have your say. We may not agree with what you say but we will defend your right to say it.
Bookings: Susan Nielson suenielson@hotmail.com
Leader: Kerry Houghton: kerry.houghton1@gmail.com 0414 907 329
Movies
THE MOVIE CLUB
First Tuesday from 1 July not school holidays
View a new release movie at various cinemas, and then enjoy lunch or coffee afterwards to discuss the film. Participants notified of films and locations 1 week prior. Leader and Bookings: Judy Buhagiar: judybuh@outlook.com 0421 499 870
Outdoor Outings
WALKING AROUND GREATER SYDNEY (WAGS) (max 20)
Second Friday from 11 July
From easy to medium bushwalks and paved walkways with water, scenic and historical views, walks are organised and led by various members in our group. We enjoy morning tea or lunch together.
Leader and Bookings: Roslyn McMullen: rmrfm12@gmail.com 0416 926 032
Walking
SYDNEY u3a WESTERN WALKERS (max 20)
Fourth Friday of Month from 25 July 10:00
From easy to hard grade bush tracks and street walks around Sydney, we explore beautiful and interesting places. Occasionally, we use public transport to get to more remote places. Members of the group may organise and lead walks. Timing and location are sent a week before walk.
Leader and Bookings: Roslyn McMullen: rmrfm12@gmail.com 0416 926 032
5 Parramatta Square
Train and bus interchange nearby, wheelchair access
Genealogy
GROWING YOUR FAMILY TREE (max 12)
First and Third Tuesday from 1 July 12:00 to 14:00
Interested in your family history? Join a friendly, helpful group engaged in digging up their ancestors.
Leader and Bookings: Ann Rowntree: ann.rowntree@gmail.com 0415 444 844
Music Opera
MAGIC MOMENTS IN CLASSICAL MUSIC (max 10)
First and Third Wednesday from 2 July 13:00 to 15:00
Experience the uplifting feeling of listening to music by composers who have been able to express, through their music, feelings and emotions that are otherwise inexpressible. Leader and Bookings: Peter Anderson oeuvres@tpg.com.au
History
FRIDAY HISTORY WITH COLIN SMITH
First and Third Friday of Month from 4 July 10:00 to 12:00
The period in English history of the early Stuart Kings, from James I to James II, determined the future relationship between parliament and the king. During this time, a king was executed, a civil war raged, a brief republic was established and another king was exiled to sort out the issue.
Presenter: Colin Smith
Bookings: Stephen Bensley: steveben@aapt.net.au 0401 454 364
TUESDAYS AT PHIVE (max 30)
Second and Fourth Tuesday of Month from 8 July 10:00 to 12:00
Bookings: Ann Todd: anntoddu3a@gmail.com 0428 857 790
History Literary
1. History through nursery rhymes (max 30)
8 July
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. In this presentation, a few surprises will be unearthed. Be prepared to learn and (at times) laugh!
Presenter: Susan Ackroyd
Science Environment
2. Climate change - a new perspective
22 July
It’s Time! We will consider a different perspective on climate change with possible solutions through challenging current simplistic views and offering different perspectives.
Presenter: Alec Rubinstein
History Nature
3. Thylacine: Australia’s natural history disgrace 12 Aug
This presentation will consider the destruction of a unique Tasmanian animal – the Thylacine - as well as the platypus: a unique, egg laying mammal with a duck bill and beaver tail.
Presenter: Garry Smith
Health Human Body
4. Heart health and mobility over the age of 60
26 Aug
First session. We will firstly consider how exercise can significantly improve mobility in older adults by enhancing muscle strength, joint flexibility, balance and coordination.
Presenter: Tim Cathers Physiotherapist.
Second session will concentrate on the ground-breaking research from The Heart Research Institute: cardiovascular disease, and exploring causes, risks, prevention, plus the distinction between a heart attack and cardiac arrest.
Presenter: Andrea Natoli
Economics Investment
5. Strategic decision making: Acquiring a fleet of aircraft
9 Sept
Why and how do large companies make the huge decision to buy a fleet of airplanes. It’s a fascinating process that involves a lot of planning and strategy. Let’s take a closer look.
Presenter: Harin Rana
History Science
6. Iconic Australian inventions of our times
23 Sept
From the 19thC colonial era through to our present time, we will consider the people and science behind some of our classic Australian discoveries and inventions.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Sociology
7. A spud or two and 30 kilos of sugar
14 Oct
Loneliness and solitude are two distinct states that shape our human experience: one marked by isolation, the other by reflection.
Presenter: Frank Wilson
any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
History Music
8. You say goodbye and I say hello
28 Oct
Arrivals and departures produce some of our deepest emotional moments, frequently reflected in music. From the Beatles to Bocelli, enjoy and discover stories behind some wonderful songs on the themes of hello and goodbye.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Science
9. Part 1: Human brain
11 Nov
Inside your head is the most complex object in the known universe - your brain! How it ‘works’ is still not fully understood. Using simple language, Punchi will help us to discover and understand a bit more about our brain.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake
Science
10. Part 2: Human brain
25 Nov
We will continue to learn more about this complex object - our brain - and the way it performs incredible tasks that baffle and amaze our scientists.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake
Calligraphy
CALLIGRAPHY (max 18)
Second and Fourth Thursday from 10 July 13:30 to 15:30
Learn beautiful writing and discover your artist within. A continuing course, no experience is necessary but time and effort essential. We alternate with Zoom - first session will be face-to-face.
Leader: Georgie Tuck
Bookings: Deborah Gracic: deb.gracic@gmail.com
Book Group
THRILLERS AND MYSTERIES (max 10)
Fourth Thursday from 24 July 12:30 to 14:30
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
Book Group
BOOK OF THE MONTH (max 20)
Fourth Monday from 28 July 10:00 to 12:00
Within a dynamic group, we share our reading experience of the book of the month, expand our understanding, enjoy a terrific morning conversation, while learning and, at times, laughing.
Leader and Bookings: Judy McShane: judymcs@hotmail.com 0419 406 912
Law
UNDERSTANDING AUSTRALIAN LAW *NEW* (max 40)
Every Wednesday from 15 Oct 13:00 to 15:00
The legal system is complex. It helps to understand how it works. In this special course, we will gain different perspectives on law and its origins, as well as democracy, the Australian Constitution, the Rule of Law, understanding the roles of judges, barristers, solicitors, juries, and how trials are run, the principles of evidence, crime, contracts, negligence, human rights and, not least, international law.
Presenter: David Hirsch
Bookings: Dallas Corcoran: dallaslouise50@gmail.com 0402 639 380
Desktop Flying
DESK-TOP FLYING FOR SENIORS (max 6)
Alternate Tuesdays from 8 July 13:30 to 15:30
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
Aurelia St
Wheelchair access. Parking available
Games Canasta Mah Jong MONDAY CANASTA, SAMBA AND MAH JONG (Western Style) (max 25)
Every Monday from 7 July 13:00 to 15:30
Learn and play Mah Jong (Western Style) or Canasta or Samba in a friendly group. Practice, refresh and polish up your skills for these social games.
Leader and Bookings: Kerrie Booth: boothkerrie@gmail.com 0431 953 419
Leader and Bookings: Anne Medlow: amedlow@bigpond.net.au 0432 676 992
Dance
RHYTHM OF THE DANCE (max 30)
Every Wednesday from 23 July 13:15 to 14:45 not school holidays
Strengthen your balance and memory skills by dancing away to the music of the Waltz, Cha Cha, Rhumba, Tango and more, in this relaxed, easy-to-follow class.
Leader Bobbie Kersten: bobbiekersten@gmail.com 0410 873 605
Bookings: Carolina Limbo: carohlinaalbina@gmail.com 0421 618 081
Dance
BALLROOM DANCING (max 30)
Every Thursday from 24 July 13:00 to 15:00 not school holidays
Have fun! Learn the basic dancing steps of Latin American, New Vogue and Traditional Ballroom dancing. No partners required.
Leader and Bookings: Cecilia Padlan: cbeauty023@gmail.com 0415 965 325
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.
8b Deepwater Rd off Eastern Valley Way Parking nearby 9417 2967 barbboston2013@gmail.com
TUESDAYS AT CASTLE COVE (max 25)
Alternate Tuesdays from 1 July 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: Barbara Boston: barbboston2013@gmail.com
History
1. Brief look at the history of USA (max 25)
1 July
How attempts for the country to remain united have left major issues unresolved.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Science
2. The science of dreams (max 25)
15 July
Exploring the latest research into sleep and dreaming, revealing answers to questions such as “Why do we need to sleep?”, “Why do we need to dream while we sleep?” and “Why are dreams often so weird?”
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Music
3. A history of the Australian folk singers, The Seekers (max 25)
29 July
The early origins and rise to fame, locally and internationally, of this icon of the Australian musical world.
Presenter: Ron Besdansky
History
4. The first million years of human communication (max 25)
12 Aug
The internet is the most recent innovation in human communication, but possibly the most profound since the evolution of speech. How attempts for the country to remain united have left major issues unresolved.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
History
5. Dusk to dawn: The history of lighthouses (max 25)
26 Aug
The history and development of lighthouses around the world, plus a look at some lighthouses found along the NSW coast. We also study the location and uses of shipping navigation lights within Sydney harbour.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Famous People Movies
6. Two knights at the movies: Sir John Mills and Sir Alec Guinness (Part 1) (max 25)
9 Sept
Their lives and careers had many parallels, and their paths crossed on stage and in films. Yet they were very different personalities.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen
Famous People Movies
7. Two knights at the movies: Sir John Mills and Sir Alec Guinness (Part 2) (max 25)
23 Sept
Their lives and careers had many parallels, and their paths crossed on stage and in films. Yet they were very different personalities.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen
History
8. Jesus Christ’s younger brother was a Chinaman (max 25)
7 Oct
The little-known story of how close China came to becoming a Christian theocracy needs to be told to incredulous audiences and for them to wonder about. It’s a story that the church will not be telling you.
Presenter: Gordon Mar
Famous People
9. Nicola Tesla (max 25)
21 Oct
Nikola Tesla - Brilliant inventor of little-known inventions but tragic eccentric who died a pauper after once having been a millionaire.
Presenter: Don Napper
Human Body
10. Pain and pleasure (max 25)
4 Nov
These are two opposite sensations perceived by the brain, mediated by several chemicals produced within us. This presentation discusses these two phenomena comprehensively.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
History
11. Princes and fleas (max 25)
18 Nov
Regarded as a period of widespread poverty and corruption, it is during the nineteenth century rule of the Qajar dynasty that the foundations of contemporary Iran, along with its relations with the West, were established.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Games Mah Jong
MAHJONG WESTERN STYLE
Every Thursday from 3 July 10:30 to 12:30
Castle Cove
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
7 Victor St
Parking nearby, wheelchair access
Book Group
READING ULYSSES *NEW*
First and Third Wednesdays of the month from 2 July 13:00 to 15:00
“Ulysses” by James Joyce has been called the greatest novel of the 20th century, but reading it can be a daunting task. In this course, we will study the novel by taking turns reading it aloud and discussing it in a collaborative atmosphere.
Leader and Bookings: Bettina Boss: bossbettina3@gmail.com preferred or 0466 979 460
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP 1
Alternate Thursdays from 3 July 10:00 to 12:00
Would you like to hear some interesting opinions? Do you want to air some of your own? This is a varied group who consider some of the issues of life and living that contribute to our modern existence. 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 0431 053 395
Music Recorder
INTERMEDIATE RECORDER GROUP
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 12:30 to 14:30 This group plays four and five part music. Descant, treble, tenor and bass players are welcome. We work on playing the recorder beautifully, and basic sight-reading is essential. You will need to have a music stand.
Leader and bookings: Katie Lucy-Smith 0404 839 826
Discussion Group
DISCUSSION GROUP 2
Alternate Thursdays from 10 July 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: Christopher Patten: chrisfpatten@gmail.com 0417 219 847
Music Recorder
ADVANCED RECORDER
Alternate Mondays from 14 July 10:30 to 12:30
Treble, tenor, bass and descant players welcome. Basic sight reading is essential. The emphasis is on playing musically.
Leader and Bookings: Alice Wheelwright: aliswinn1@gmail.com 0468 844 852
Leader and Bookings: Bernard Williams: bernie43@tpg.com.au 0422 895 531
TUESDAYS AT CHATSWOOD (max 35)
Most Tuesdays from 22 July 10:30 to 12:30
Technology
1. Navigating the digital world (max 35) 22 July
A non-technical outline of connecting your devices (e.g. mobile phone, tablet, computer) to the internet, the world wide web, browsers, search engines, cloud storage and free international phone calls’.
Presenter: Keesde Leeuw
Bookings: UrsulaSchappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
Medicine Health
2. A short history of ancient medicine Part 1 (max 35) 29 July
The appearance of Asklepios: The era of classical Greece and Rome saw the emergence of the remarkable healing sanctuaries of Asklepios which are some of Greece’s finest ancient sites. We will view his major works and learn about his life.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes: rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com 0400 141 091
Legal
3. Australian Law Part 1 (max 35) 5 Aug
Where do laws come from? How does the system work? What are the legal dimensions of current events?
Presenter: David Hirsch
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes: rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com 0400 141 091
Legal
4. Australian law Part 2 (max 35) 12 Aug
Where do laws come from? How does the system work? What are the legal dimensions of current events?
Presenter: David Hirsch
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes: rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com 0400 141 091
History
5. Napoleon - revolution to empire (max 35) 19 Aug
The meteoric rises/falls in his military and political careers with some emphasis on the latter years and their connection with and importance to Australia.
Presenter: Geoff Davidson
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
History
6. Catalina: The mighty flying cats (max 35) 2 Sept
In the dark days of WW2, many of the missions of the RAAF Catalinas were flown in total secrecy. Hear about the history and incredible feats of these versatile aircraft and the bravery of the men that flew them.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
History
7. Arthur Phillip (max 35)
9 Sept
From Ship’s Boy to farmer, global adventurer, spy and our first Governor. His mysterious death still engages and intrigues the historians.
Presenter: Geoff Davidson
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes: rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com 0400 141 091
Geography
8. Great river systems on our planet (max 35)
16 Sept
Our rocky planet has many surprises. We look at some of the great rivers and the diverse civilizations they pass through.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Health
9. Healthy brain, healthy body (max 35)
23 Sept
Our brains are designed to help us solve problems, plan for the future and recall the past to keep us alive, functioning and independent. How to keep your brain at its healthiest? A nutritionist will discuss the most effective and manageable ways to improve brain health and reduce dementia risk.
Presenter: Gayle Nelson
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Food History
10. “A pub with no beer” and “Food on the move” (max 35)
30 Sept
“Coffee palaces” were the majestic temperance hotels built during the late 19th century that did not serve alcohol. A variety of dining options were offered on The Ghan, including foods brought from home or provided by the CWA, outback pub meals served with warm beer, and wild goat shot by the train driver.
Presenter: Diane Noyce
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
Europe History
11. A brief look at the history of Scandinavia Part 1 (max 35)
7 Oct
The Viking Age saw their warriors set upon Europe. Today, they are a beacon of egalitarianism and mutual support. How did this happen?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Europe History
12. A brief look at the history of Scandinavia Part 2 (max 35)
14 Oct
The Viking Age saw their warriors set upon Europe. Today, they are a beacon of egalitarianism and mutual support. How did this happen?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Transport History
13. History and intrigues exposed when building
Darling Harbour (max 35)
21 Oct
(see Events for Walking Tour of Darling Harbour on Tue 28 Oct)
Darling Harbour was one of the earliest transportation, industrial and commercial hubs in Sydney’s development. From 1974-79 Max was one of the construction engineers, exposing history and heritage sites.
Presenter: Max Underhill
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
History
14. Anzac Ridge - Flanders (max 35)
4 Nov
Previously unpublished stories about the Monash secret headquarters in Flanders. Diaries of Sydney Grammar schoolboys who enlisted in 1917 reveal amazing details of commandos, spies and secret codes.
Presenter: Trish Skehan
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Agriculture Science Food
15. Feeding and watering our future world (max 35)
18 Nov Note: starts at 11:00
There will be more food eaten in the next 50 years than in the whole history of humanity. An Agricultural Scientist will speak of the challenges, successes and misconceptions of providing global food and water security from an Australian perspective over the next 50 years.
Presenter: Chris Russel AM FAIA
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com
0407 995 578
FRIDAYS AT CHATSWOOD (max 35)
Fridays from 10:30 to 12:30
Cinema
1. Kubrick - a visual odyssey (max 35)
25 July
A brief look at the film style of Stanley Kubrick, a master movie director. From photographing for ‘Look Magazine’ in the 1950s to 1999 to ‘Eyes wide shut’, his last movie.
Presenter: Martin Weatherill
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
History Ancient
2. A short history of ancient medicine (part 2) (max 35)
1 Aug
The Golden Age of Medicine: The rise of Islam in the east during the 7th century ushered in remarkable advances that remained the basis of medical and surgical knowledge until well into the Renaissance.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Rosemary Sparkes rosemaryannesparkes@gmail.com 0400 181 091
Legal Australia
3. First Nations people and the criminal justice system (max 35)
15 Aug
At less than 3% of the population, First Nations people are grossly over-represented in the criminal justice system. Why - and what can be done about it?
Presenter: Nicholas Cowdery
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com
0407 995 578
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Science Human Body
4. Science of dreaming (max 35) 22 Aug
The latest research into sleep and dreaming, revealing answers to questions such as “Why do we need to sleep?”, “Why do we need to dream while we sleep?” and “Why are dreams often so weird?”
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Bookings: Janet Douglas janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Art History
5. Outsider art (max 35)
5 Sept
A journey along the trails of creativity, madness and outsider art. Why, for example, did Sidney Nolan admire these outsider artists? And what about women? Is the term relevant today?
Presenter: Lydia Fegan
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
Africa History Europe
6. Europeans in Africa (part 1) (max 35) 10 Oct
The Greeks were amongst the earliest known Europeans in Africa. Later, the Trans-Saharan trade got the Romans involved. The Portuguese coastal exploration eventually facilitated the Atlantic slave trade.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Bookings: Ursula Schappi: ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578
Africa Europe History
7. Europeans in Africa (part 2) (max 35) 17 Oct
After establishing footholds as staging posts for their Indian Ocean trade, the industrialised European nations by 1900, carved up the continent amongst themselves to secure raw materials and new markets.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Cinema History Economics
8. Money makes the world go around! (max 35) 21 Nov
Money matters, money is essential, money is power but what is it? A journey from cattle to cowries to coins to cryptocurrencies explained.
Presenter: Jennifer Sansom
Bookings: Janet Douglas: janet_away@yahoo.com 0423 947 411
Dance
SALSA PLUS MORE
Every Friday from 25 July 13:00 to 14:30 except school holidays
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 a DanceSport registered coach. Leader and Bookings: Nazni Farooq naz_studies@yahoo.com
6 Ulonga Avenue (Off Innes Rd). wheelchair access 0423 397 343 mariannethiering@gmail.com
TUESDAYS AT GREENWICH (max 40)
Most Tuesdays from 22 July 10:00 to 12:00 Bookings: Marianne Thiering: mariannethiering@gmail.com 0423 397 343
History
1. The house divided Part 1 (max 40) 22 July Islam, Sunni, Shia and the making of the Middle East. Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
2. The house divided Part 2 (max 40) 29 July Islam, Sunni, Shia and the making of the Middle East. Presenter: Peter Nixon
Movies
3. Kubrick: A visual odyssey (max 40) 5 Aug
A brief look at the film style of Stanley Kubrick, a master movie director. From photographing for “Look magazine” in the 1950s to 1999 to “Eyes Wide Shut”, his last movie. Presenter: Martin Wetherill
Poetry
4. The poetry connection (max 40)
12 Aug
How the figurative language of poetry can reconnect us with the inner life of imagination to reenchant the world. Presenter: Martin Wetherill
History Archaeology
5. Travels in Ancient Greece Part 1 - Olympia (max 40)
19 Aug
Olympia: Excavations at Olympia have revealed its temples, gymnasia and the stadium where the first Olympic event took place.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch: mvermeesch7@gmail.com
History Archaeology
6. Travels in Ancient Greece Part 2 - Delphi (max 40) 26 Aug
Delphi: The spectacular site of Delphi exerted a remarkable influence on the history of the Graeco-Roman world.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch: mvermeesch7@gmail.com
History Food
7. Dining with the 20th century’s most notorious tyrants (max 40)
2 Sept
An investigation into what some of the world’s most notorious twentieth century despots have enjoyed at their dinner table – favourite dishes, eccentricities, table talk, manners, addictions and frequent fear of poisoning.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch: mvermeesch7@gmail.com
History Current Affairs
8. The world without Dr Henry Kissinger (max 40)
9 Sept
Dr Kissinger ended the Yom Kippur War, disengaged the USA from Vietnam, opened relations with China and achieved detente with Russia. Given today’s troubled world, could he have done better?
Presenter: Harry Melkonian
Culture Broadcasting
9. Stories happen to people who tell them (max 40)
16 Sept
Chair of the ABC Advisory Council and Women in Media and one of Australia’s most awarded TV producers, Anita’s gift for story telling allows a glimpse behind the scenes of Australia’s media industry.
Presenter: Anita Jacoby AM
Science
10. Symmetry (max 40)
23 Sept
Symmetry is a fundamental mathematical concept. Its significance was understood by the ancient Greeks and underlies many aspects of human endeavour, ranging from mathematics, art, architecture and biology to the latest developments in particle physics.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
History Geography
11. Maritime history of the Torres Strait (max 40)
30 Sept
The reef-strewn passage between the Australian mainland and Papua New Guinea remains the most hazardous of all major Straits in the world.
Presenter: Ian Burnet
Science Technology
12. Glass (max 40)
7 Oct
Glass has a long history of being used in everyday things, from windows to Windows, beautiful objects, scientific instruments, and a few devices that might surprise you.
Presenter: Debbie Rudder
Bookings: Dianna Brookes: dianna.brookes@gmail.com 0412 261 388
History
13. When Britain bullied China (max 40)
14 Oct
In early 19th century barbarians forced their way into the peaceful Celestial Empire. It was the beginning of a century of humiliation for China. How and why did this happen?
Presenter: Gordon Mar
Bookings: Dianna Brookes: dianna.brookes@gmail.com 0412 261 388
Human Body Medical Matters
14. The human brain Part 1 (max 40)
21 Oct
The human brain is the most complex object in the known Universe. It performs incredible tasks, and its working is still not fully understood.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Human Body Medical Matters
15. The human brain Part 2 (max 40)
28 Oct
The human brain is the most complex object in the known Universe. It performs incredible tasks, and its working is still not fully understood.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
course
Culture
16. From flops to tops and vice versa (max 40)
11 Nov
Sometimes films, books, music and inventions have not had an easy road to success. Conversely, much that was popular in its heyday sank into oblivion.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
Language
17. The world of words (max 40)
18 Nov
Grammar, usage, pronunciation, etymology – we all have our prejudices, preferences, antipathies and ignorance about our native tongue. A journey from Anglo-Saxon to today’s world language.
Presenter: John Flint
Bookings: Dianna Brookes: dianna.brookes@gmail.com 0412 261 388
Economics
18. A history of money from barter to bitcoin (max 40) 25 Nov
Money matters: money is essential, money is power but what is it? A journey from cattle to cowrie to currencies sto cryptocurrencies explained.
Presenter: Jennifer Sansom
Art Appreciation
19. The art of a motley crew (max 40)
2 Dec
Artistic explorations in landscape, portraiture and still life in the world of new ideas between the world wars.
Presenter: Ann Sutherland
Health
20. Brain health (max 40)
9 Dec
A wellness expert explores how to maintain brain health. What can be done to prevent a decline of cognitive function?
Presenter: Gayle Nelson
Bookings: Margaret Vermeesch: mvermeesch7@gmail.com
14 Church St
Parking nearby 0447 194 510 judyharris222@bigpond.com
MONDAYS AT HUNTERS HILL (max 55)
Every Monday from 28 July 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: Judy Harris: judyaharris222@gmail.com 0447 194 510
History
1. The story of Arabs Part 1 (max 55) 28 July
The Arabs founded Islam and defeated the old empires of west Asia. The world benefited immensely from their efforts to preserve old world knowledge.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
History
2. The story of Arabs Part 2 (max 55) 4 Aug
The Turks and Mongols invaded and destabilised the Arab rule, then Britain and France induced fragmentation. The quest for “Arab Unity” remains an elusive dream.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
History
3. The secrets of Anzac Ridge: in Flanders Fields (max 55)
11 Aug
Her book is based on the diary of James (Jim) Armitage, the last remaining WW1 veteran. Serving under Sir John Monash, Jim was tasked with selling the war horses from his artillery division and received The Chevalier Medal of Honour from the French Consul General.
Presenter: Trish Skehan
Human Body
4. The human brain Part 1 (max 55)
18 Aug
The most complex object in the known universe is inside your head and is called the brain, the working of which is shrouded in mystery. Let’s learn about this in easy to understand language.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Human Body
5. The human brain Part 2 (max 55)
25 Aug
More about this complex object inside our heads and how it performs incredible tasks which have baffled scientists.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Health
6. Genes and lifestyle (max 55)
1 Sept
As we live, many changes occur in our body e.g. our blood vessels lose elasticity and our bones shrink. To what extent can we reduce such changes to extend lifestyle and be healthier?
Presenter: Dr Judy Ford
History
7. The industrial revolution (max 55)
7 Sept
A personal perspective on a major turning point in the history of the world.
Presenter: Chris Schofield
Music Famous People
8. Sir Edward Elgar (max 55)
15 Sept
Sir Edward Elgar was a brilliant, tormented English composer with a complex character. We listen to some of his wide ranging music and attempt to reveal his personality.
Presenter: Nora Hinchen
Travel History
9. Jenolan Caves (max 55)
22 Sept
Jenolan Caves were revealed from Aboriginal times to their discovery by Europeans and their opening to tourism.
Presenter: John Flint OAM
History Broadcasting
10. The ABC’s north of the harbour connections (max 55)
29 Sept
Explore the rich history and cultural impact on Sydney’s North Shore from television studios at Gore Hill to local staff connections.
Presenter: Janine Kitson
History
11. House divided Part 1 (max 55)
6 Oct
Shia, Sunni and Wahhabism divide Islam and the Middle East and this division contributes greatly to the unrest in the Middle East. We explore this phenomenon.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
12. House divided Part 2 (max 55)
13 Oct
Shia, Sunni and Wahhabism divide Islam and the Middle East and this division contributes greatly to the unrest in the Middle East. We explore this phenomenon.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History Famous People
13. Winston Churchill (max 55)
20 Oct
Politician, leader and statesman during the turbulent times of the Boer War, the First and Second World Wars. Glimpse into his life through his mistakes, triumphs, personal struggles and inspirational speech.
Presenter: Jennifer Sansom
Science
14. An introduction to forensic science (max 55)
27 Oct
We look at the history of Forensic Science across a number of disciplines, including forensic anthropology, together with a study of forensic entomology and the use of insects in the investigation of criminal matters.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Music
15. You say goodbye and I say hello (max 55)
3 Nov
Arrivals and departures produce some deepest emotional moments, frequently reflected in music, from the Beatles to Boccelli, enjoy and discover stories behind some of these wonderful songs that reach into the extremes of our lives –songs of beginnings and endings.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Health Psychology
16. The importance of siblings (max 55)
10 Nov
Our siblings are often our longest lasting relationships and can be sources of emotional support and collaboration but also come with challenges, rivalries and complexities. As adults, siblings bonds continue to shape our identity, emotional health and family cohesion.
Presenter: Assoc Prof John Brennan
Technology
17. AI and ChatGPT (max 55)
17 Nov
John has worked in the computer world for 50 years and was part of an incredible range of technological changes. Now retired, he is involved with AI technological advances, teaching and helping others.
Presenter: John Cameron
History
18. Pop goes the classics (max 55)
24 Nov
Pop music owes a great deal to classical music generally, but many pop songs have also used or been inspired by classical melodies.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Culture
19. u3a Christmas gathering (max 55)
1 Dec
Christmases around the world and Christmas carols
Presenter: Anne Richardson
180 Longueville Rd 0490 652 292 vfollett@ozemail.com.au
Book Group
BOOK GROUP
Every fourth Monday from 28 July 10:30 to 12:30
This group chooses 6 novels per semester to read (both classics and modern), and enjoys a lively discussion on those books. New members welcome. Leader: Lyndell Ford
Bookings: Vanessa Follett: vfollett@ozemail.com.au
165 Blues Point Rd Wheelchair access 0449 823 066 ellabellamtgambier@gmail.com
Music KEYBOARD FOR BEGINNERS (max 8)
Every Tuesday from 22 July 10:30 to 12:30 Not in school holidays
Play simple melodies using tone bank and autobeat. Create your own pentatonic music using the black keys. Bring your own 4 octave keyboards or use one of ours.
Leader and Bookings: Tina Roberts 0412 636 794
All bookings via booking secretary.
Book Group BOOK GROUP
Alternate Fridays from 25 July 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. All bookings via booking secretary. Leader and Bookings: Toni McLennan 9412 1585
Cnr Art Gallery Way & Myahgah Rd Wheelchair access. Parking nearby 0404 254 009 annikatults@gmail.com
MONDAYS AT THE ART GALLERY
*NO BOOKING REQUIRED*
Every Monday from 7 July 10:30 to 12:30
History
1. The Chateaux of the Loire
7 July
An interesting insight into the famous and infamous historic characters who were associated with the Chateaux of the Loire Valley in France.
Presenter: Trish Chapman
History
2. Douglas Mawson, Antarctic explorer, geologist, educator and romantic
14 July
Douglas Mawson’s remarkable escape from Antarctica rivals that of Ernest Shackelton. Explorer, geologist, educator, romantic made possible Australia’s 42% presence on the seventh continent of Antarctica.
Presenter: Kevin Fitzpatrick
Health Medical Matters
3. Cardiovascular disease and the Heart Research Institute
21 July
Hear about the work of the Heart Research Institute and a broad overview of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for Australians and people globally.
Presenter: Andrea Natoli
History
4. Fifty of the most famous quotes in history: Socrates to JFK
28 July
Throughout 2500 years, orators, luminaries, leaders, politicians and philosophers have blessed humanity with inspirational quotes. Laugh and be uplifted by history’s top 50 quotes from Socrates to JFK.
Presenter: Peter Ireland
Geography
5. Italian Lakes (Part 1)
4 Aug
The Italian Lakes, formerly Ice Age Glaciers, are now tourist high spots. A look at their environment, importance, attractions, history and surrounding towns.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
History Geography
6. Italian Lakes (Part 2)
11 Aug
The Italian Lakes, formerly Ice Age Glaciers, are now tourist high spots. A look at their environment, importance, attractions, history and surrounding towns.
Presenters: Nora Hinchen and John Flint
Science
7. Fireworks
18 Aug
Used throughout the world, this is a fiery, explosive and colourful method of celebration, a display of physics, chemistry, art and music in the sky.
Presenter: Joan Scott
History Science
8. Science on Captain James Cook’s ship, the Endeavour
25 Aug
Science on James Cook’s ship Endeavour included observing the transit of Venus, new navigational techniques and Joseph Banks’ collections and illustrations of plants and animals.
Presenters: Pam Forbes and Greg Jackson
History Science
9. Who Invented what and when?
1 Sept
We look at how many items that we take for granted were invented and investigate the history and science behind these everyday objects of contemporary life.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
History Language English
10. History of Australian slang
8 Sept
The background to the Macquarie Dictionary and its adventures in spelling, taboo words, flashpoints in politics, and new words. Then standards in usage, cliches, punctuation, jargon.
Presenter: Sue Butler
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Literature
11. How quotations can enhance a crime novel
15 Sept
Find out how clever Colin Dexter was interweaving quotes from many sources into his Inspector Morse crime fiction series.
Presenter: Anne Richardson
Past Career
12. Personal anecdotes from around the world 22 Sept Books, baguettes, Boston, Perugia and Blue-Ribbon Lambs. This is not Forrest Gump. Enjoy true stories from around the world that resonate with your own. Be entertained and uplifted.
Presenter: Peter Ireland
Science
13. Relativity revealed - Einstein’s discoveries
29 Sept
This talk traces the development of Einstein’s work. Newton’s Laws seemed to solve things, but conflicting observations triggered Einstein to develop two radical theories - special relativity and general relativity.
Presenter: Ian Bryce
History
14. The ABC’s role in the dangerous digital revolution
13 Oct
The digital revolution brings the Information Age with limitless access to audio, video and text. It is exciting… and dangerous. What is the countermeasure to the danger? It’s the public broadcaster.
Presenter: Quentin Dempster
History
15. Brief history of the United States (Part 1)
20 Oct
The USA appears to be at a crossroads and its people are more disunited than ever. How did it get there?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
16. Brief history of the United States (Part 2) 27 Oct
The USA appears to be at a crossroads and its people are more disunited than ever. How did it get there?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
17. Brief history of the United States (Part 3) 3 Nov
The USA appears to be at a crossroads and its people are more disunited than ever. How did it get there?
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
18. Westminster Abbey: Pomp and circumstance
10 Nov
A brief history of the Abbey from demolition of St Edward the Confessor’s Abbey to the new building which would become the new Coronation Church. Told by a former chorister.
Presenter: Martin Orchard
History
19. Money makes the world go around 17 Nov
Money matters, money is essential, money is power, but what is it? A journey from cattle to cowrie, to coins to cryptocurrency explained.
Presenter: Jennifer Sansom
History Movies Technology
20. The moving image 24 Nov
A history of the technologies behind the movies from the early days through to talkies, colour, Cinemascope, iMax and today’s digital technologies.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Next to Mosman Council Chambers Off Military Rd. Wheelchair access, parking nearby michaelsuckling@outlook.com
WEDNESDAYS AT MOSMAN SQUARE
*NO BOOKING REQUIRED*
Every Wednesday from 16 July 10:00 to 12:00
Cinema Movies
1. Stanley Kubrick and his films
16 July
A brief look at the film style of Stanley Kubrick, a master movie director from photography for “Look” magazine from 1980 to 1999. “Eyes Wide Shut” his last movie.
Presenter: Martin Wetherill
History
2. Maritime history of the Torres Strait
23 July
Early navigators such as Torres, Cook, Bligh and Flinders contributed to the charting of this dangerous passage. Hydrographic surveys of the 1840s, introduction of steamships and the introduction of Torres Strait pilots meant that it could be used as a major shipping route.
Presenter: Ian Burnet
Music
3. The science behind music
30 July
Music is one of the most pervasive and influential art forms and underlying it are some physics and mathematics which might begin to explain its effect on the listener.
Presenter: Laurie Wilson
Travel
4. Siberia and Russia
6 Aug
Kevin and Glenys Murray share their experiences travelling from Vladivostok to St Petersburg and exploring the fascinating history, geography, cultures, architecture, lifestyles and landscapes.
Presenters: Glenys and Kevin Murray
Human Body
5. The human brain Part 1
13 Aug
The human brain, the most complex object in the known Universe: Inside your head is a 3lb organ called the brain, the origin of which is shrouded in mystery. Let’s learn about this using simple language.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Human Body
6. The human brain Part 2
20 Aug
The human brain, the most complex object in the known Universe: Inside your head is a 3lb organ called the brain, the origin of which is shrouded in mystery. Let’s learn about this using simple language.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
History
7. Fiji - Australia “Frenemies”
27 Aug
Covers the early Australian settlers and Australian companies in Fiji, through to the current times. Particularly, the reasons behind Australia’s current attempt to realign itself in the face of Chinese activity in the region.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
History
8. Squander bug
3 Sept
When Australia became the food arsenal of an allied world during World War 2, it placed unprecedented demand on food production. This necessitated food rationing and a huge propaganda campaign. Food became the “highway to victory”.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Science Human Body
9. Science of dreams
10 Sept
Explore the latest research into sleep and dreaming, revealing answers to questions such as “Why do we need sleep? Why do we need to dream while we sleep? and why are dreams so weird?”
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Science Technology
10. Nuclear power - an answer to climate change?
17 Sept
Should Nuclear be part of Australia’s 2050 clean energy commitments?
Presenter: Martin Thomas
Health
11. Living a brain-healthy lifestyle
24 Sept
Your brain is one of the body’s most adapted and resilient organs. When cared for properly, it helps you survive and thrive. Let’s discuss the tips and tricks to living a brainhealthy lifestyle
Presenter: Gayle Nelson
Famous People
12. Women sailors, heroic men and fighting ships
1 Oct
Part 1 - Hear the stories of Kay Cottee, and Laura Dekker and Jeanne Socrates who completed two world circumnavigations at ages 70 and 74.
Part 2 - No Australian person has been awarded a VC. Many demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of superior forces. An opportunity to look at our famous men and their fighting ships.
Presenter: Noel Phelan
Forensic science
13. Introduction to forensic science
8 Oct
The history of forensic science including forensic anthropology and entomology and the use of insects in the investigation of criminal matters.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
History
14. The Slav world and the Russian State
15 Oct
A group of tribes, known collectively as Slavs, occupied a vast territory in Western Eurasia. The arrival of Swedish Vikings gradually transformed their principalities into the Great Russian Empire.
Presenter: Himanshu Jhala
Geology
15. On solid foundation. The geology of scenery
22 Oct
This talk will show how closely what we see and admire as scenery is dependent on the underlying geology and the dynamic Earth that shapes it.
Presenter: Garry Lowder
Medical
16. The Sackler story
29 Oct
How Valium and Oxycontin profits financed art galleries, museums, laboratories. The lies, addictions, deaths, court cases and billions of dollars make up the history of the Sackler Family.
Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein
History Travel
17. Dame Freya Stark in the lands of incense
5 Nov
Throughout much of her 101 years, the remarkable Dame Freya Stark remained a prolific writer. We follow her journey to “Arabia Felix” using her written records and photographs as well as those of the lecturer from a more recent time.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
History
18. Louis 16th and Marie Antoinette Part 1
12 Nov
Was he lazy? Was she frivolous? Did they cause the revolution? A new look with fresh eyes.
Presenter: Chris Serrano
History
19. Louis 16th and Marie Antionette Part 2
19 Nov
Was he lazy? Was she frivolous? Did they cause the revolution? A new look with fresh eyes.
Presenter: Chris Serrano
Art
20. Mosman Art Gallery
26 Nov
Learn more about one of Australia’s leading public art galleries. Mosman Gallery Director and staff will provide insights on its establishment driven by a core group of community members, exhibition highlights and the important role that philanthropy continues to play.
Presenters: Mosman Art Gallery Director and staff
Outdoors Eating Out
THIRD FRIDAY LUNCH GROUP
Third Friday of each month from 18 July 12:00 to 14:00
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.
All bookings via booking secretary.
Leader and bookings: Sarah Fennamore: sfennamore@yahoo.com
course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
6 Hale Rd, off Military Rd 0434 839 172 margaretk14@gmail.com
Discussion Group Current Affairs
TOPICAL ISSUES DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Wednesdays from 23 July 10:00 to 12:00
We cover local and international topics in the news. At every meeting we discuss two topics chosen by the group at the previous meeting, we hear short introductions then keep our mental engines running in a friendly and diverse group.
Leader: Peter Trout
Bookings: Margaret Kropman: margaretk14@gmail.com 0434 839 172
Book Group Literature
LITERARY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)
Alternate Tuesdays from 29 July 10:00 to 12:00 This friendly group meets once a fortnight to discuss a variety of demanding literature including poetry, drama and non-fiction.
Leader: Mary Billing
Bookings: Elisabeth Kingsford-Smith 0408 703 373
44 Penshurst St Wheelchair access, Parking nearby 0420 401 030 rohan@hyegrove.com.au
FRIDAYS AT WILLOUGHBY
Second Friday of every month from 11 July 10:30 to 12:30
Bookings: Rohan Kirby: rohan@hyegrove.com.au 0420 401 030
History
1. The Walkers of Yaralla
11 July
The story of Thomas Walker, philanthropist, whose estate in Concord is left to the people of NSW by the Walker Trust Act of Parliament, 1937.
Presenter: Trish Skehan
History
2. Remembering the ABC’s TV 8 Aug
Learn about the old ABC studios at Gore Hill and what it was like to work on this site for almost fifty years and which produced some of the finest television programs in the nation.
Presenter: Janine Kitson
History Medical Matters
3. A brief history of medicine and surgery 12 Sept
A brief look at our body, what it is made of, what can go wrong, and how it has been treated in the past.
Presenter: John Walsh
History
4. Pioneering aviation in the Pacific islands
10 Oct
The people who pioneered aviation, from Kingsford Smith’s landing in Fiji, and the strength of character needed to fly tiny aircraft to remote islands.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
History Medical Matters
5. Quackery - a brief history of the worst ways to cure everything
14 Nov
The golden age of quacksalvers - a historical look at quackery Middle-Ages and the toxic treatments that these medical-peddlers offered, including early surgical procedures and leech-therapy.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Regional President: Lynda Cronshaw nbpres.sydu3a@gmail.com 0411 041 537
Enquiries only
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: You must book to attend a course. Refer to ‘Booking a Course’ on page 4.
59 Old Barrenjoey Rd
wheelchair access, parking nearby 0455 948 864 evelane222@gmail.com
Art
ART GROUPS (max 12)
Every Monday from 7 July 11:00 to 15:00
Enjoy the company of other artists with varying levels of skill. Bring your own equipment (any medium). No tuition given.
Leader: Gen Watts
Bookings: Eve Lane: evelane222@gmail.com 0455 948 864
195 Condamine St
wheelchair access, parking onsite
Book Group
LITERATURE (max 12)
Alternate Wednesdays from 23 July 11:00 to 13:00 Washaway Room Level 3
A wide range of authors and their books are discussed. These include James by Percival Everett, Time of the child by Niall Williams, My friends by Hisham Matar, Stone yard Devotional by Charlotte Wood and Milkman by Anna Burns. Leader: Sandra Orton
Bookings: Janelle Laidlaw: stuart.laidlaw7@bigpond.com 0418 436 127
22 Melwood Ave
wheelchair access, parking onsite 9452 2396 bethrobertson@aapt.net.au
Craft
CRAFT IN THE FOREST
Alternate Fridays from 18 July 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 0403 255 770
93-95 Blackbutts Rd wheelchair access, parking nearby 0407 547 583 john@wattever.com
FRIDAYS IN THE FOREST
Last Friday of month from 25 July 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.
Broadcasting
1.The Golden Years of the Wireless + How Sweet it was 25 July
Graham Sims recounts memories of the golden years of the wireless, Bob Dyer, Yes What? and more. He’ll also take us down memory lane of those sweets and lollies of our childhood. Bookings not required.
Speaker: Graham Sims
Science
2.The Science of Dreams
29 Aug
Kevin Murray explores the latest research into sleep and dreaming with answers to “Why do we need to sleep”, “Why do we need to dream”, and “Why are dreams often so weird”. Bookings not required.
Speaker: Kevin Murray
Australia
3.Captain Moonlight – Bushranger 26 Sept
Captain Moonlight was son of an Anglican clergyman, entered a life of crime and hanged in 1880. Peter Headley will tell us the fascinating details in his tale of this enigmatic character. Bookings not required.
Speaker: Peter Headley
Australia
4.A Pub with no Beer + Of Rice and Men
31 Oct
Diana Noyce presents two talks today, both super interesting. ”A Pub with no Beer”, expect a surprise! and “Of Men and Mice”, a truly uplifting and inspirational story. Bookings not required.
Movies
5.Starring at the Movies
28 Nov
John Watt returns with the video clips and tells us the stories. Julie: ”Sound of Music”, Elvis: “Viva Las Vegas”, Cliff: “Summer Holiday”, Gene, Audrey, Yul and more. Bookings not required.
Speaker: John Watt
1 Grattan Cres (off Bantry Bay Rd) wheelchair access, parking onsite 0412 161 969 jayefpe@hotmail.com
Ukulele Music
UKULELE INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED
Every Tuesday from 1 July 13:30 to 15:30
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
Bookings: Larry Crowley: larrycrowley@optusnet.com.au 0421 939 610
13 Grenfell Ave (cnr Wakehurst Parkway) wheelchair access, parking onsite 9913 3481 jeddasam1@bigpond.com
Music Guitar
ACOUSTIC GUITAR GROUP (un-pluggers) (max 25)
First three Wednesdays of month from 2 July 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 0411 270 037
Music Performance
THE 3RD AGE ROCK ORCHESTRA
First three Wednesdays of month from 2 July 14:00 to 17:00 Auditorium
The orchestra plays classic rock music with singers and post-beginners on all instruments. Basic skills with following chord charts are needed. Reading music is an advantage. The orchestra performs a few times a year. At present there are vacancies for strings, brass and woodwind.
Leader and Bookings: Harvey Broadbent: 3rdagerockorchestra@gmail.com 0414 486 675
Art Painting
THURSDAY ART GROUP
Every Thursday from 3 July 13:00 to 16:00
Education Centre Ground Floor
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
Bookings: Barbara Tuna 0407 513 045 (text only)
Music Singing SING FOR THE JOY OF SINGING
Alternate Fridays from 4 July 10:00 to 12:00 Auditorium
We have fun singing well-known songs from all genres. Anyone who enjoys singing, irrespective of ability, is welcome to join our friendly group to sing, hum along or just sit and listen.
Leader and Bookings: Lynda Cronshaw lyndacron@gmail.com 0411 041 537
Language French FRENCH POST BEGINNERS/INTERMEDIATE (max 14)
Alternate Fridays from 4 July 10:00 to 12:00
Education Centre Ground Floor
Easy going course suitable for people with a basic knowledge of French Grammar. Not suitable for beginners or for people who have not opened a French book since school. Book to be used is French Made Simple by Pamela Rose Haze.
Leader and Bookings: Olivia Kesby: olivia.kesby@gmail.com 0401 303 472
Language Latin LATIN BEGINNERS I (max 10)
Alternate Fridays from 11 July 09:30 to 11:30
Education Centre Ground Floor
Continuation of Latin Beginners I Course including Classical Latin grammar, sentence formation and vocabulary through exercises and readings with the objective of introducing you to Latin literary texts. New members accepted only if have studied sufficient Latin previously, e,g, at school.
Text: The Oxford Latin Course Part 1 - Student Book (ISBN 9780 19912264)
Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler: gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170
Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE I (max 10)
Alternate Fridays from 11 July 12:30 to 14:30
Education Centre Ground Floor
Continuation course (for 2024 students) covering Classical Latin grammar and vocabulary through exercises and readings with the inclusion of Latin literary texts.
Text: The Oxford Latin Course Part II
Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler: gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170
Philosophy HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY
Alternate Fridays from 25 July 10:30 to 12:30
Auditorium
We cover key ancient and modern Western philosophers covering metaphysics, theory of knowledge, ethics and politics. The focus of the course is life’s meaning as considered by these thinkers.
Leader and Bookings: John Lauricella jml1010@yahoo.com
Music Ukulele
UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS
Every Tuesday from 29 July 11:30 to 12:45
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
1395A Pittwater Rd
wheelchair access, parking nearby 9979 8707 marciaandrews711@hotmail.com
Current Affairs
TOPICS OF OUR TIMES (max 25)
Alternate Tuesdays from 1 July 14:00 to 16:00 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
Bookings: Peggy Crocker: fripeg2@gmail.com 0411 411 264
Yoga
YOGA AND RELAXATION
Every Thursday from 3 July 10:15 to 11:45 not school holidays
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: Elizabeth Kelly: liz@lizkelly.id.au 0439 640 215
Art Drawing Painting
ART: PAINTING AND DRAWING IN ANY MEDIUM (max 20)
Every Monday from 7 July 13:00 to 16:00
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
Bookings: Narelle Harvey: nel11@bigpond.com 0447 865 657
Discussion Group Movies
MONDAY AT THE MOVIES - MAM
First Monday of each month from 7 July 14:00 to 16:00
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: Elizabeth Boase: lizzyboasebruce@gmail.com 0413 736 331
Language French ADVANCED FRENCH
Alternate Fridays from 11 July 10:00 to 12:00 Berry Hall
Advanced conversation in French based on a text and tape.
Leader: Wendy Clark scorpio39@bigpond.com
Bookings: Suzanne Whitlock: suewhitlock@yahoo.com.au
Legal UNDERSTANDING AUSTRALIAN LAW *NEW*
Every Thursday for one month from 28 Aug 14:00 to 16:00
Lakeview Hall
How the system works, legal dimensions of current events, law and democracy, the Australian Constitution, rule of law, judges, juries, barristers, solicitors, how trials are run, the principles of evidence, crime, contracts, negligence, human rights, and international law.
Leader: David Hirsch
Bookings: Runa Schmidt-Muller: runasm@ihug.com.au
11-13 The Boulevard
Wheelchair access. Parking nearby 0424 464 047 helsim@internode.on.net
Qigong Tai chi QIGONG
Every Monday from 21 July 09:30 to 10:30 Main Hall
Reconnect with nature via this gentle, moving meditation originating in China. Relaxes the joints, aids digestion and sleep, calms the mind and gently tones and strengthens muscles. Work at your own level.
Leader and Bookings: Penny Auburn: penauburn@gmail.com
Spanish Language SPANISH
Every Monday from 21 July 10:30 to 12:30
Activity Rooms 1 and 2
Enhance your language skills with fun and engaging lessons designed for continuing students only to enhance your understanding of Hispanic history, culture and Latin-American music.
Leader: Jorge (George) Lopez
Bookings: Helen Howes: helsim@internode.on.net
Yoga
YOGA AND RELAXATION (max 33)
Every Monday from 21 July 12:30 to 14:00 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
Bookings: Susan Barnard: susanbarnard@iinet.net.au
Art Painting
ART CLASS WITH KAYE DEXTER
Every Monday from 21 July 13:00 to 16:00
Activity Rooms 1 and 2
This acrylics class enjoys using different techniques and styles. We bring our own equipment.
Leader: Kaye Dexter
Bookings: Robyn Mayman: peter@maymans.com
any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Drama
DRAMATIC ACTIVITIES
Alternate Wednesdays from 23 July 13:30 to 16:00 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
Table Tennis
TABLE TENNIS (max 50)
Every Thursday from 24 July 13:15 to 16:15
Main Hall and Activity Rooms
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.
Bookings: Angela Gollmer: ra.u3a.tt@gmail.com
Yoga
YOGA AND RELAXATION *NEW*
Every Friday from 25 July 12:30 to 13:30 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.
Bookings: Ann McGovern: charlieann@hotmail.com
Spanish Language SPANISH BEGINNERS *NEW*
Every Friday from 25 July 13:30 to 15:00 Activity Rooms 1 and 2
Enhance your language skills with fun and engaging lessons designed to welcome beginners, and enhance your understanding of Hispanic history, culture and LatinAmerican music.
Leader: Jorge (George) Lopez
Bookings: Helen Howes: helsim@internode.on.net
Language French
INTERMEDIATE FRENCH (max 12)
Alternate Wednesdays from 30 July 13:30 to 15:30 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
Bookings: John Benjamin
TOPICS OF INTEREST
First Wednesday of the month from 6 Aug 13:30 to 15:30 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
Movies Publishing
1. Media Culture -Stories happen to people who tell them!
6 Aug
A gift for storytelling allows a glimpse behind the scenes of Australia’s leading media Producer and Director.
Presenter: Anita Jacoby AM Bookings not required.
History Ancient
2. HATSHEPSUT the Female Pharaoh
3 Sept
Why I loved being an ancient history teacher - who was Hatshepsut in the world of New Kingdom Egypt?
Presenter: Susan Barnard Bookings not required.
Culture
3. History of Glebe-saving the Heritage!
5 Nov
Hear how the culture of Glebe has changed over every decade since the 1820s and how its rich heritage has been saved.
Presenter: Vicki Moss Bookings not required.
Movies Publishing
4. The Power of Music and Christmas Party.
3 Dec
Northern Beaches Chorus is a “acapella choir”. What are the benefits of music, of joining a choir? Learn how to put a show together. Be prepared to Sing Along!
Presenter: Linda Wareham Bookings not required.
Corner Robertson Rd and Ocean Ave parking nearby 9918 3817 s.louise.r@hotmail.com
Music Recorder RECORDER CONSORT
Every Wednesday from 2 July 10:30 to 12:30
A small group playing descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders, playing music from Renaissance to Bach through to Modern and Jazz. New players always welcome.
Bookings: Jane Ahmed: janeska.ahmed@gmail.com 0431 993 216
Cnr Griffin and Abbott Rds
Not public holidays, wheelchair access, parking onsite runasm@ihug.com.au
Exercise
BALANCE ‘N’ BONES EXERCISE (Easy)
Every Monday and Friday from 30 June 09:30 to 10:20
Conditioning exercises for all major muscle groups and balancing to improve posture. Instruction by Beth Denny DVD. Bookings not required
Leader: Mondays Runa Schmidt-Muller: runasm@ihug.com.au
Leader: Fridays Diane Muchar: dmuchar@gmail.com 0420 242 583
Exercise
BALANCE ‘N’ BONES EXERCISE (Advanced)
Every Monday and Friday from 30 June 10:30 to 11:20
Conditioning exercises for all major muscle groups and balancing to improve posture. Instruction by Beth Denny DVD.
Bookings not required
Leader: Mondays Runa Schmidt-Muller: runasm@ihug.com.au
Leader: Fridays Diane Muchar: dmuchar@gmail.com 04202 42 583
Bridge Games
SOCIAL BRIDGE
Every Monday from 30 June 13:00 to 16:00 Basic bridge knowledge is required. Friendly group. Leader and Bookings: Leigh Hudson leighandrichard@gmail.com
Croquet Games
CROQUET (max 20)
Every Tuesday from 1 July 08:30 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
Games Cards
CARD GAMES 500
Alternate Tuesdays from 1 July 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
Movies Cinema
MOVIE SERIES: PRESENTER’S PICK
Alternate Tuesdays from 1 July 13:00 to 16:00
Details of the movies being presented will be in the Northern Beaches u3a Monthly Newsletter. Suggestions from our audience will be welcome. Bookings not required
Leader Sandra Orton: sandraorton038@gmail.com 0460 795 959
Leader: Kerrie Sanders: kersand@bigpond.com 0400 309 986
THURSDAYS AT NORTH CURL CURL
A series of weekly presentations by people who are experts in their subject. Bookings not required.
Music
1. Soundtrack: Music can change the world, part 1 3 July
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 influential music.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Nature
2. How to develop a memory like an elephant? 10 July
From vanished names to misplaced keys, forgetfulness brings no one ease. But Max brings methods tried and true to help your memory work for you.
Presenter: Max Hitchins
Theatre
3. A romp through the theatre (5 sessions) 17 July
This series of talks feature landmark plays of the 1970s with a look at playwrights like Peter Shaffer, Tom Stoppard and Alan Ayckbourn
Presenter: Diana Pheils
History
4. A history of the future
24 July
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: Dr Laurie Wilson
History China
5. How my father became a driver for a Chinese opium warlord
31 July
And other fabulous fables in tumultuous times in China during the early 20th century. Family survival in north-east China from the 1920s to the end of 1940s, finally journeying to peace in Australia.
Presenter: Lydia Fegun
Music
6. Soundtrack: Music can change the world, part 2 7 Aug
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 influential music.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Travel
7. My life cycle
14 Aug
Roger’s 12 years of long-distance cycling, covering 35,000 km. His trips include one trip across the Nullarbor, three across the US, one across Canada and one in the UK.
Presenter: Roger McDougall
Theatre
8. A romp through the theatre (5 sessions)
21 Aug
This series of talks feature landmark plays of the 1970s with a look at playwrights like Peter Shaffer, Tom Stoppard and Alan Ayckbourn
Presenter: Diana Pheils
Health
9. Hearing and brain health
28 Aug
Explores the physical and mental impact, associated with untreated hearing loss, and how to overcome the common barriers to addressing it.
Presenter: Andrew Campbell
Music
10. Soundtrack: Rock’n’ Roll
4 Sept
Rock’n’Roll you love from the late 1950s to the noughties.
Presenter: Second Time Round
History
11. Dictators: culinary habits of the world’s notorious 20th century tyrants
11 Sept
Their favourite dishes, eccentricities, table talk, table manners, addictions and frequent terror of being poisoned.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Theatre
12. A romp through the theatre (5 sessions)
18 Sept
This series of talks feature landmark plays of the 1970s with a look at playwrights like Peter Shaffer, Tom Stoppard and Alan Ayckbourn
Presenter: Diana Pheils
Science Medical Matters
13. The science of dreams
25 Sept
Exploring the latest research into sleep and dreaming, revealing answers to questions such as “Why do we need to sleep”?, “Why do we need to dream while we sleep”? and “Why are dreams often so weird”?
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Music Theatre
14. Soundtrack: Let’s put on a show
2 Oct
Past president of the Willoughby Theatre Company for 12 years and actor for many decades and still performing, Tom will present a “behind the scenes” of how musicals get organized.
Presenter: Tom Sweeney
History
15. Pioneering aviation in the Pacific
9 Oct
Traces Pacific Island aviation history from Kingsford Smith’s 1928 historic landing in Suva, through the pioneering era. Qantas’ sometimes troubled involvement, and how Fiji Airways became a profitable, award winning, international airline in the aftermath of the coups.
Presenter: Andrew Drysdale
Theatre
16. A romp through the theatre (5 sessions)
16 Oct
This series of talks feature landmark plays of the 1970s with a look at playwrights like Peter Shaffer, Tom Stoppard and Alan Ayckbourn.
Presenter: Diana Pheils
History
17. The big history (2 sessions)
23 Oct
The concise history of humanity from the Big Bang to the Modern World
Presenter: Peter Nixon
History
18. The big history (2 sessions)
30 Oct
The concise history of humanity from the Big Bang to the Modern World.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Music
19. Soundtrack: The musical story of the Beatles
6 Nov
This session will include archive videoclips and live performance from Harvey and musical friends.
Presenter: Harvey Broadbent
Crime Economics
20. Money laundering
13 Nov
What is money laundering and what is the reported financial impact on the Australian and the global economy? Hear from a professional ‘anti-moneylaundering specialist’.
Presenter: Elizabeth Goodbody
Theatre
21. A romp through the theatre (5 sessions)
20 Nov
This series of talks feature landmark plays of the 1970s with a look at playwrights like Peter Shaffer, Tom Stoppard and Alan Ayckbourn
Presenter: Diana Pheils
Health
22. How does gut health affect the immune system?
27 Nov
As 70% of our immune cells reside in our gut, gut bacteria imbalances can lead to disease. Learn how to strengthen your immune system and improve gut health with simple changes to diet and lifestyle.
Presenter: Gayle Nelson
Music
23. Music session and Christmas lunch
4 Dec
Members please bring a plate to be shared with fellow members.
Presenter: Eve Lane
Nature Craft
24. The Golden Orb-weaving Spider
11 Dec
We consider the use of her spider silk to weave a fabulous golden garment made entirely from this web. We also discuss sericulture (silk-worm farming).
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Cards Canasta
CANASTA - BOLIVIA VERSION
Every Thursday from 3 July 12:45 to 16:00
Take the opportunity to learn the strategies and tactics of this version of Canasta. Tuition for new players will be provided on 17 and 24 Jul.
Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane: evelane222@gmail.com 0455 948 864
Games Mah Jong
MAHJONG - THE WESTERN GAME
Every Thursday from 3 July 13:00 to 16:00
Learn and play Mah Jong in a friendly atmosphere. Patient teaching is provided by Judith Bennett. Leader and Bookings: Sylvia Strike: sylviastrike@hotmail.com 0414 290 938
Trivia
TRIVIA FOR FUN
Every Friday from 4 July 13:15 to 15:15
Come along to our friendly trivia sessions. Nothing too serious - just enough to exercise the grey cells! Come on your own or make up a team of six. Various presenters. No bookings required.
Bridge Cards Games
INTRODUCTION TO BRIDGE *NEW*
Every Monday from 14 July 13:00 to 16:00
Six weekly lessons and practice for those who have never played bridge or those who have not played for a long time. A reference book will be used and can be purchased at class.
Teacher: Terry Herfort
Leader and Bookings: Leigh Hudson leighandrichard@gmail.com
For members who enjoy science, please join us for a series of talks on a wide range of topics presented by speakers expert in their field.
Bookings not required
Archaeology History Ancient 1. Archaeology 1 – Ephesus; the home of Ephesian Artemis
22 July
This two-part series will explore the history, archaeology and identity of two different sites, located on the Ionian coast of Turkey, which were inhabited by differing ethnic groups, the Anatolians, the Greeks and the Romans.
Presenter: Gail Sadler
Archaeology History Ancient
2. Archaeology 2 – Aphrodisias; a city built in marble
5 Aug
Part two in this archaeology series on the history of ancient Turkey.
Presenter: Gail Sadler
Science Nature
3. Antarctic interactions 19 Aug
Through Rita’s eyes and photographs, learn how whales, seals and penguins interact and survive in the Antarctic’s extreme environment. Explore the beauty and history of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia.
Presenter: Rita Shaw
Logic
4. Logic and Reasoning: the path to knowledge 2 Sept
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
Science
5. Science myths
16 Sept
We examine a range of commonly held science-based myths by identifying their possible origins and the reasons why they persist despite contrary evidence.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Science
6. CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency
30 Sept
We consider the structure and functions of CSIRO in carrying out scientific research to benefit Australian industry and the community, together with some of their notable developments since its 1926 foundation.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science History
7. Who invented what when
14 Oct
We investigate the history and science behind some everyday objects of contemporary life, items that we take for granted and commonplace in our daily lives.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Famous People Technology Computers
8. A brief look at the life of Bill Gates
28 Oct
A teenage programmer, Harvard drop-out and Founder of Microsoft - and that is just the beginning.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Geology
9. On a solid foundation – the geology of scenery
11 Nov
Mountains, valleys and spectacular views don’t just happen – there are always geological processes at work.
Presenter: Dr Garry Lowder
Science Music Mathematics Physics
10. The science behind music
25 Nov
Music is one of the most pervasive and influential art forms, and underlying it are some physics and mathematics which begin to explain its effect on the listener.
Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson
Current Affairs Discussion Group ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION
Alternate Tuesdays from 22 July 14:00 to 16:00
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.
Enquiries: Carmen Exner: carmen.exner@gmail.com
0448 452 343
Book Group Discussion Group BOOK CLUB
Once a month on Tuesdays from 29 July
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.
Leader and Bookings: Anne Black: anneeblack@yahoo.com.au 0425 247 440
Leader and Bookings: Helen Hopwood helenhopwood1@gmail.com
Games Bridge BRIDGE IMPROVER LESSONS *NEW*
Every Monday from 13 Oct 13:00 to 16:00
Six weekly lessons for those who have done an introductory course, those who want to improve their play and those who played a long time ago and want to get back to regular play.
Teacher: Terry Herfort
Leader and Bookings: Leigh Hudson leighandrichard@gmail.com
Music Appreciation
LEGENDARY CLASSICAL MUSIC PERFORMERS OF 20th CENTURY (max 8)
Alternate Wednesdays from 2 July 14:00 to 16:00
Newport
See and hear rare and spectacular films plus recordings featuring conductors like Toscanini, Bernstein, Stokowski and Karajan. Great singers like Callas, Sutherland and Pavarotti. Violinists such as Heifetz, Menuhin and Perlman, pianists including Rubinstein, Horowitz, Ashkenazy. Artists one could only have dreamt of witnessing. Private home in Newport with quality home theatre.
Leader and Bookings: Ivor Zetler: izetler@ozemail.com.au 0432 440 651 (text only)
any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Book Group
WENDY’S BOOK CLUB (max 10)
Alternate Thursdays from 3 July 13:30 to 15:30 Forestville
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
Bookings: Marienne Short: mariennetravel@yahoo.com.au 0403 939 004
Art Appreciation ART HISTORY (max 7)
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 14:00 to 16:00 Newport
Join an intimate group to explore private galleries housing some of the great art masterpieces of the 19th and 20th centuries. Modern technology now enables tours of these legendary museums on a quality home theatre setup. We will also explore the fascinating histories of the collectors and the (often eccentric) art dealers involved in establishing these great collections.
Leader and Bookings: Ivor Zetler: izetler@ozemail.com.au 0432 440 651 (text only)
Music Music Appreciation BACH TO THE FUTURE (max 20)
Alternate Fridays from 11 July 14:00 to 16:00 Avalon
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
Cnr Jacksons and Boondah Rds’ wheelchair access, parking nearby 9979 8707 marciaandrews711@hotmail.com
Dance
INTRODUCTION TO BALLROOM DANCE
Every Thursday from 3 July 12:00 to 14:00 Main Hall
The Course presents ballroom dance styles including Waltz, Rumba, Slow Rhythm, Tango, Cha Cha, Quickstep, Slow Jive and Foxtrot. Steps are then put together into a Ballroom Sequence Dance. Beginners are welcome.
Leader and Bookings: Peter Fennell: peterfennell9@hotmail.com 0408 660 311
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.
The Gully Rd behind Berowra Oval Parking onsite, close to Berowra Station
AFFAIRS OF INTEREST IN THE CURRENT WORLD
All bookings via the Leader
Second and fourth Mondays from 14 July
10:00 to 12:00
Leaders: Joan Scott and Jackie Wilson
Booking: Joan Scott: djscott.joan@gmail.com 0405 453 396
Nature
1. Arctic wilderness
14 July
Animals and people have adapted to living in the Arctic, surviving ice and snow, changing climate, challenging terrain, interactions between special and more. Be surprised.
Presenter: Rita Shaw
Music
2. Behind the Beatles
28 July
Enjoy some fabulous music and discover the unexpected stories behind some wonderful songs.
Presenter: Graham Spindler
Health
3. Physiotherapy
11 Aug
Physiotherapy has developed since the days of massage girls to a now highly skilled profession with a wide range of applications.
Presenter: Winsome Baker
Nature Disasters
4. Search Dogs Sydney 25 Aug
Highly qualified search technicians are partnered with expertly trained search dogs for wilderness operations, disasters and casualty events.
Presenter: Chris D’Arcy
World
5. United Nations
8 Sept
Professor Stephen Hill speaks about his book “In Defence of our Humanity”and his experience of working with the United Nations in a troubled world.
Presenter: Professor Stephen Hill
Travel
6. My cycling life
22 Sept
Roger’s 12 years of long distance cycling covering 35,000 km, including trips across the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and the Australian Nullabor.
Presenter: Roger McDougall
Technology
7. Communication: from BC to AI
13 Oct
A look at methods of communication used throughout the centuries and the difficulties current developments could bring in the future.
Presenter: Joan Scott
History Culture Society
8. Glebe
27 Oct
Hear how the culture of Glebe has changed over time and how recent developments in the City of Sydney have impacted on this heritage area.
Presenter: Vicki Moss
Economics
9. Money laundering
10 Nov
What is money laundering and what is the reported impact on the Australian and the global economy?
From a professional anti-money-laundering specialist.
Presenter: Elizabeth Goodbody
Nature
10. Birds - a world alongside us 24 Nov
An understanding and appreciation of birds, including those in the local area.
Presenter: Robin Edmundson
1 Lawson St
Parking onsite
Games Pickleball PICKLEBALL
Every Wednesday from 23 July 10:00 to 12:00 not school holidays
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
1 Chambers Court off Pembroke Street, beneath Library. Wheelchair access. Limited Parking
INTERESTING SPEAKERS AT EPPING
Alternate Wednesdays from 2 July 13:00 to 15:00 not school holidays
Leader and Bookings: Patricia Tsang: rydenurse@yahoo.com.au 0408 288 386
Broadcasting
1. The ABC - Achievements and challenges
2 July
Learn about the ABC, Australia’s national independent public broadcaster and the challenges it faces in a rapidly changing media landscape.
Presenter: Janine Kitson
History Australia
2. The Eureka Stockade - 3 December 1853
30 July
In Colonial Victoria, miners had no rights and no votes. In 1854 they rebelled against this oppressive regime. The ensuing battle at the Eureka Stockade at Ballarat is now considered to be the birthplace of Australian democracy.
Presenter: David Wilson
Literature
3. History through nursery rhymes
13 Aug
An author talks on the political satire AKA nursery rhymes. Why was a baby on the tree top? Who was Humpty Dumpty? From her book “Rhyme and Reason”.
Presenter: Susan Ackroyd
Health
4. Dementia risk factor reduction
27 Aug
Reducing 12 risk factors may prevent 40% of dementia cases. Social participation is vital for cognitive health and well being in affected individuals and carers.
Presenter: Diana Matovic
Government Services
5. Service NSW
10 Sept
Giselle returns to provide the latest information on services provided by Service NSW, especially the Savings Finder Program, which includes rebates and savings.
Presenter: Giselle Coelho
Literature
6. Early Australian literature
24 Sept
Who were our earliest writers? What did they write about? How did they reflect our early development and what can we learn from them?
Presenter: Robin Amos
Law Medical
7. Voluntary assisted dying
22 Oct
Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) laws are in place in all Australian states and allow people with a terminal or incurable condition and unbearable suffering, the right to a quick and peaceful death with medical assistance.
Presenter: Penny Hackett, President, Dying with Dignity NSW
Health
8. Chiropractic and physiotherapy
5 Nov
This presentation will discuss the two professions and the differences and similarities between them. They will also discuss treatment techniques and the type of conditions that they treat.
Presenter: Dr Elizabeth Foster and Fiona McQuillan, Active Spine.
History World
9. Princes and fleas, Qajar rule and the formation of Iran 19 Nov
Despite widespread poverty and corruption during the 19th century, Persian art and architecture broke away from many of their earlier constraints and the foundations of contemporary Iran were established.
Presenter: John Tidmarsh
Tai Chi
TAI CHI (max 20)
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 13:00 to 15:00
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 (Function Room).
Leader: Dennis Siang Tan
Leader and Bookings: Siang Tan: dshtan@bigblue.net.au 9888 7874
Corner Chester and Oxford Sts Train station and bus stop nearby.
Dance
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING (max 24)
Every Friday from 4 July 10:00 to 11:30
A fun social activity for all ages. As soon as you hear the wonderful Scottish music you will want to dance. Moderate physical fitness is required but no previous dance experience or partner is needed. Wear soft shoes and light clothing.
Leader: Sheena Caswell: sheena.caswell@gmail.com 0401 847 468
Bookings: Susan Shaw suesuespan@gmail.com
Language Latin LATIN FOR BEGINNERS
Alternate Tuesdays from 8 July 10:00 to 12:00
Join in and learn this fascinating ancient Romance language. The foundation of many European languages, including English. New beginners and lapsed former students are welcome. Text book is Oxford Latin Course, Part 1. All bookings via Course Leader 0438 808 336 Leader and Bookings: Peter Moore plusph@gmail.com
Book Group
EPPING BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP
Alternate Thursdays from 10 July 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.
Please note: Books not supplied.
Leaders: Sandra Luntz and Barbara Boston
Bookings: Sandra Luntz sandra.luntz@gmail.com 9874 3382
Music
BASIC MUSIC THEORY & SIGHT SINGING PRACTICE (max 15)
Every Wednesday from 23 July 11:30 to 13:00 not school holidays
A fun way to learn basic music theory and apply it to reading vocal scores. The three major components of the course are: basic music theory, reading of vocal scores and vocal warm up exercises. Leader: Ying Carruthers
Bookings: Emily Chan: emily13160@hotmail.com
799 Pacific Highway Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Philosophy PHILOSOPHY
Alternate Mondays from 21 July 10:00 to 12:00 We continue with Masters of Greek Thought: Plato, Socrates and Aristotle using lectures on DVD recorded for the Great Courses series by Professor Robert C. Bartlett (Meeting Room 2).
All bookings via Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Jock Buselli: jock.buselli@tpg.com.au 9484 7041
Tai Chi
TAI CHI 1 (max 15)
Every Thursday from 24 July 10:00 to 11:00
Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi and Qigong and gain health benefits through gentle strength, stretching and breathing exercises (Meeting Room 2).
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett: rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
Tai Chi
TAI CHI 2 (max 15)
Every Thursday from 24 July 11:00 to 12:30
Learn the ancient art of Tai Chi and Qigong and gain health benefits through gentle strength, stretching and breathing exercises (Meeting Room 2).
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett: rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
28-44 George St
entry via Hunter St, wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station and bus nearby
History Australia
AUSTRALIAN HISTORY SEMINARS
Alternate Tuesdays from 22 July 10:15 to 12:15
A course including a diverse range of topics and speakers dealing with William Dampier, Ben Hall, Howard Florey, Tom Wills, Andrew Scott and other topics including motor sport (Room 4).
All bookings via Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Garry Smith: garmal@outlook.com.au 0418 443 147
Language Spain Travel
LANGUAGES FOR TRAVELLING - SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS
Every Wednesday from 23 July 10:00 to 12:00
Do you delight in engaging with the local folk when travelling, understanding their culture, art history and cuisine? Spanish can be used, not only in Spain, but also in South and Central America. (Room 8).
Leader and Bookings: Patricia Gunning: gunnosp@gmail.com 0415 857 947
Italy Language Travel LANGUAGES FOR TRAVELLING - ITALIAN FOR BEGINNERS
Every Wednesday from 23 July 13:30 to 15:30
Do you delight in engaging with the local folk when travelling, understanding their culture, art history and cuisine? Is Italian your first love? (Room 8)
Leader and Bookings: Patricia Gunning: gunnosp@gmail.com 0415 857 947
25 Edgeworth David Ave
Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby Dance
DANCE DYNAMICS (max 28)
Every Tuesday from 15 July 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.
All bookings via Course Leader 0409 448 542 Leader and Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com
Art Painting
PAINTING IN ACRYLICS (max 16)
Alternate Thursdays from 24 July 09:30 to 12:00
Come and join our friendly class. Basic skills lessons are given to beginners, as well as guidance and assistance provided to all, whatever your skill level.
Leader and Bookings: Janny Drayer: jannydrayer@gmail.com 0432 121 999
Art Painting
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING (max 16)
Alternate Thursdays from 31 July 09:30 to 12:00
Learn basic watercolour techniques or expand your skills in a friendly, supportive environment. If you are a beginner, the leader will give you a list of materials you will need.
Leader and Bookings: John Patten: jmpatten1@optusnet.com.au 0404 181 186
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
12 Old Berowra Rd
Parking, bus stop nearby
Music Recorder
MEDIUM TO ADVANCED RECORDER (max 13)
Alternate Wednesdays from 30 July
10:00 to 12:30
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 (Room 1).
Leader and Bookings: Vivienne Peters: viv55peters@gmail.com 0401 371 472
2 Ulmarra Place East Lindfield Street parking available, bus at door
VARIOUS SPEAKERS
Book through the Village Office on 9416 8466
Fourth Thursday of the month from 24 July 10:00 to 12:00
History
1. The lady traveller pre. 1920s
24 July
We look at the social and physical boundaries prior to the 1920s for women to fulfil their travel ambitions both at home and abroad.
Presenter: Jennifer Hubbard
Transport
2. Most scenic railways of the world
28 Aug
As train travel is becoming more popular, we look at the most scenic railway journeys in all five continents. We also take a glimpse into some of the super fast trains.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Health Law
3. Voluntary assisted dying 25 Sept
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: Nick Cowdery AO KC
Environment Nature
4. Tulips
23 Oct
This talk will explore the exotic and vibrant world of tulips and the madness of ‘tulipmania’ in the 17th century and the fascinating reveal of the Dutch Golden Age.
Presenter: Patty Henderson
History Australia History World
5. Australia and the Boer War
27 Nov
Learn about Australia and its not well known involvement in the Boer War.
Presenter: Nigel Hubbard
259 Pacific Highway (behind Library) wheelchair access, limited parking onsite, parking nearby, train station nearby
Book Group
MODERN AND CLASSIC NOVELS
Alternate Thursdays from 3 July 10:15 to 12:15
A literary discussion group studying 10-11 books each semester in a friendly and informal setting. All enthusiastic readers welcome. First books for this semester are:
3 July: Where Angels Fear to Tread by E.M. Forster, 17 July: Juice by Tim Winton.
Leader and Bookings: Maurice O’Donovan: odonovan.1@bigpond.com 9411 8717
Language Spanish
POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
Alternate Mondays from 7 July 14:00 to 16:00
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: Jennifer Brady: jennybry30@hotmail.com 0403 923 555
Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE
Every Wednesday from 23 July 13:00 to 15:00 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.
All bookings via Course Leader.
Leader and Bookings: Helen Ledwidge: helenledwidge685@gmail.com 0414 489 716
Language German GERMAN ADVANCED
Every Friday from 1 Aug 09:30 to 11:00
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 1 Aug 11:00 to 12:30 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
5 Fisher Avenue
Parking nearby, train station nearby
Poetry
POETRY WRITING (max 12)
Alternate Thursdays from 24 July 10:00 to 12:00
We are a relaxed group of poets seeking to improve our writing. Bring a draft, receive positive and constructive comments.
All bookings via the Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: David Atkinson: atkinsondn6@gmail.com 0412 643 328
Poetry
WITH RHYME AND REASON (Eastwood) (max 10)
Alternate Thursdays from 17 July 10:30 to 12:30
We are a relaxed and convivial group who love to discuss poetry. Although our focus is 20th century English language poets, we also look at poems in translation and poets from other eras. Material is distributed before each meeting.
Leader and Bookings: Richard Clarke: randmclarke@yahoo.com.au 0401 313 989
Creative Writing INTERACTIVE CREATIVE WRITING (Dangar Island) (max 10)
Alternate Wednesdays from 23 July 11:00 to 15:00
Join well published, prize winning author and historian, Ann Howard, at her beautiful heritage home on Dangar Island. Have a stroll around the island and then settle into your workshop with the vibrant Ann. Leader: Ann Howard annhoward942@gmail.com
Bookings: Dawn Nettheim: dawn@bigpond.net.au 9869 0451
Book Group
LITERARY MASTERPIECES (St Ives) (max 8)
First Friday of the month from 1 Aug 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: The Land of the Green Plums by Herta Muller. Leader and Bookings: Kaye Horley: rkhorley@gmail.com 0412 750 487
Vernon St parking onsite
Language French FRENCH PRE-INTERMEDIATE (max 15)
Every Tuesday from 22 July 13:00 to 15:00 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 on 0447 545 070.
Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck: shirleybeck14744@gmail.com
Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 15)
Every Thursday from 24 July 13:00 to 15:00 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 on 0447 545 070.
Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck: shirleybeck14744@gmail.com
2 Kitchener St parking onsite and nearby
Creative Writing SHORT STORY WRITING (max 12)
Alternate Tuesdays from 29 July 10:00 to 12:00 not school holidays
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 (Visitor Centre Games Room).
Leader and Bookings: Liz Laslett: lizlaslett45@gmail.com 0410 498 621
Cnr Douglas St and Mona Vale Rd Wheelchair access. Parking available.
Music Ukulele UKULELE FOR FUN
Every Wednesday from 2 July 09:15 to 12:00
Looking for a new interest? Come and have a lot of fun with our friendly group. Beginners welcome. We have start-up ukuleles available to try. Music is so good for the soul. Strum and sing with us just for fun (Wesley Room).
Leader: Dennis Simmons. All bookings via the Booking Coordinator. Bookings: Barrie Heath: foxv217@gmail.com 0450 405 526
any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Cinema
THE GOLDEN AGE OF CINEMA
Alternate Fridays from 11 July 10:00 to 12:30
Classic films from the 1920s to the 1960s will be screened (Wesley Room).
All bookings via the Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Gary Tyrrell: talk2garyt@gmail.com 0432 696 163
Dance
DANCE FOR FITNESS AND FUN
Every Monday from 21 July 10:00 to 11:30
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 (Wesley Room).
Leader and Bookings: Rose Pettett: rose.pettett@gmail.com 0402 287 738
Games Mahjong
MAHJONG PLAYERS GROUP (max 24)
Alternate Tuesdays from 22 July 13:30 to 15:30
Join a small group of experienced Mahjong players for stimulating play in a fun environment. Must be experienced in Western Mahjong and available to play each fortnight (Finlay Room).
All bookings via Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com 0409 448 542
Discussion Group Current Affairs CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 18)
Alternate Thursdays from 31 July 10:00 to 12:00 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 (Calvin Room).
Leader and Bookings: Michael Branagan: 0417 452 100
440 Bobbin Head Rd Clubhouse. Parking onsite
TOPICS OF INTEREST NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED
Second and fourth Mondays from 14 July 14:00 to 15:30
History World
1. When Britain bullied China
14 July
China’s century of humiliation began with the Opium Wars of 1839-1860. Britain led the way for imperialist powers of the day to force unequal treaties on a once proud but weakened empire.
Presenter: Gordon Mar
Science
2. Biological evolution
28 July
Biological evolution is the change in inherited traits over successive generations in population. We look at the wealth of evidence that supports the theory.
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Art
3. The history of vexillology, art and design
11 Aug
Vexillology, the study of flags, has 5 key principlessimple design, meaningful symbolism, 2-3 basic colours, no lettering or seals and being distinctive or related. We study the Olympic and Australian flags.
Presenter: Joe Bollen
History Australia
4. The Eureka Stockade 1853
25 Aug
On 30 November 1854 miners at Ballarat in Victoria swore allegiance to the Southern Cross flag at Bakery Hill and built a stockade. In December 1854, Government troops attacked the stockade killing miners and soldiers.
Presenter: David Wilson, Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret.)
Politics
5. Sydney’s green bans
8 Sept
Sydney’s Green Bans began in the 1970s and helped protect historic buildings in The Rocks from being demolished and the Royal Botanic Gardens from being turned into a car park for the the Opera House.
Presenter: Dr Meredith Burgmann AM
Cinema History Culture
6. The picture-show man
22 Sept
Remember the good old days of the local ‘picture theatre’? What a treat it was to watch the magic of the silver screen, our heroes and villainsthe imagination and spectacle!
Presenter: Graham Sims
Japan Travel
7. Japan - part 3
13 Oct
We discover even more wonderful things about Japanfrom their way of life to education and tourist travel.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
History World
8. Life in the imperial Turkish harems
27 Oct
Charismatic Prince Orhan, heir to the Ottoman Sultan of Turkey, ignores his mother’s advice when he rescues a Russian slave girl from drowning. He falls in love but she has a secret that could prove costly.
Presenter: Cindy Davies
Broadcasting Famous People
9. Journalist and TV presenter
10 Nov
Mike speaks about his career as a journalist and TV presenter on 60 Minutes, A Current Affair, This is Your Life, Missing Persons Unit, Nine News and Sunday Night.
Presenter: Mike Munro AM
Law
10. Limitations of the criminal justice system
24 Nov
Nick Cowdery spent 50 years in criminal justice in various capacities and was a Public Defender, Barrister and Acting Judge and for nearly 17 years he was Director of Public Prosecutions for NSW.
Presenter: Nick Cowdery AO KC
Turramurra Ave
Parking onsite wheelchair access, train station and bus nearby.
Games Canasta Cards
CANASTA *NEW* (max 16)
Alternate Mondays from 14 July 14:00 to 16:00
We will learn the basic Canasta game over three Mondays then continue with social play. Strategies and tactics will eventuate during further meetings (Garden Room).
Leader: Sam Marr 9487 3806
Bookings: Marilyn Pryor: marilynpryor7@gmail.com 0414 493 415
Language German
PRE INTERMEDIATE GERMAN
Every Monday from 21 July 10:00 to 12:00 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 (Garden Room).
Leader and Bookings: Michael Hummel: michael.hummel48@gmail.com 0404 478 814
Discussion Group Current Affairs CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP (max 16)
Alternate Tuesdays from 22 July 10:00 to 12:00
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 (Garden Room).
All bookings via Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Margaret Rapsey: rmrapsey@bigpond.com 0457 252 526
Games
FUN PUZZLES
Alternate Tuesdays from 29 July 10:00 to 12:00
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 (Garden Room).
Leader and Bookings: Sandra Sadler: spsadler@dodo.com.au 9484 5513
9 Woniora Avenue
Wheelchair access. Parking available.
Language German GERMAN INTERMEDIATE (max 12)
Every Monday from 7 July 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.
All bookings via the Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Dorothee Schifter: dorothee. schifter@bigpond.com 0400 164 817
Outdoors Walks OUT THERE
Third Wednesday of the month from 20 Aug 09:00 to 13:00
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
any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Spanish
SPANISH FOR BEGINNERS (max 12)
Every Wednesday from 2 July 10:30 to 11:30
For those who are new to Spanish or intending to travel to a Spanish speaking country. We will follow a simple pattern to have you speaking Spanish from the first lesson. We will focus on everyday spoken Spanish with an emphasis on conversational exercises. No spaces available till 2026.
Leader and Bookings: Vivian McGuire: vmcguire@tpg.com.au 0418 259 102
Crosswords
MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)
First Wednesday of the month from 2 July 13:30 to 15:30 Guided practice sessions for members who have already participated in Cracking Cryptic Crosswords or who have other relevant experience.
Leader and Bookings: Ronald Shapiro ronshap1938@gmail.com
Spanish
SPANISH INTERMEDIATE- AN INTRODUCTION (max 12)
Every Wednesday from 2 July 14:00 to 15:00
In this course we will be looking at various Spanish verb tenses and how they are used in everyday spoken Spanish. We will follow common Spanish sentence patterns and focus on conversational exercises. A comfortable use of Spanish in the “Present Indicative” is required for this course. No spaces available till 2026.
Leader and Bookings: Vivian McGuire: vmcguire@tpg.com.au 0418 259 102
Language Spanish
INTERMEDIATE SPANISH CONVERSATION
Every Thursday from 3 July 10:30 to 12:00
Relaxed conversation covering a range of topics. Friendly and supportive. Occasional structured contentintermediate level.
Leader: Marta Beatriz Moreno
Bookings: Ian Finck: ifin55@gmail.com 0405 499 515
Italian
INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN (max 20)
Every Friday from 4 July 13:30 to 15:30
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: Maria-Pia Ottavian: pia.ottavian@yahoo.com.au 0424 738 824
Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12)
Every Monday from 6 July 10:00 to 12:00
Join us for a friendly and respectful discussion on current affairs, local and international. Every second month we meet for lunch (optional).
Leader: John Brockman
Bookings: Sara Graham: s.dk.graham@gmail.com
Creative Writing Language OUR WORDS
First and Third Monday from 7 July 09:30 to 11:30
Words and sayings can be fun. Share a word to use in an on-the-spot writing task. Discuss articles on many aspects of the English language. Hone your writing skills in a friendly like-minded group and let your talent emerge.
Leader and Bookings: Ann Orel: annorel@hotmail.com
Language Russian
RUSSIAN ADVANCED CONVERSATION
Alternate Mondays from 7 July 10:00 to 12:00
This is a continuing course which encourages participants to practise conversational Russian with the help of audio-visual materials. New members with an adequate knowledge of the language are very welcome.
Leaders: Richard Brettell and Paul Gilchrist
Bookings: Richard Brettell: richardbrettell@hotmail.com 0455 279 866
Current Affairs
YOU NEED NOT AGREE
Every Monday from 7 July 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
Crosswords
MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)
First Monday of the month from 7 July 13:30 to 15:30
Guided practice sessions for members who have already participated in Cracking Cryptic Crosswords or who have other relevant experience.
Leader and Bookings: Ronald Shapiro: ronshap1938@gmail.com
Discussion Group Movies
FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 9)
Alternate Wednesdays from 9 July 13:30 to 15:30
Join a fun, friendly and stimulating zoom discussion about two films at every meeting. Two films from SBS on Demand or Netflix are chosen at each session. The result is an invigorating, insightful and enjoyable discussion from the comfort of your own home.
Leader and Bookings: Ross Giannone: rossgiannone@yahoo.com.au 0409 382 384
Crosswords
CRACKING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 16)
Four Wednesdays from 9 July 13:30 to 15:30
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: Ronald Shapiro: ronshap1938@gmail.com
Discussion Group Current Affairs
CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12)
Every second Thursday from 10 July 16:00 to 18:00
Join us for a friendly and respectful discussion on current affairs, local and international. Every second month we meet for lunch ( optional).
Leader: John Brockman
Bookings: Sara Graham: s.dk.graham@gmail.com
Famous People Music History
MUSIC WE GREW UP WITH
Alternate Thursdays from 10 July 10:00 to 12:00
Music sessions delivered in a video format via Zoom. Each session looks at music from a range of various genres.
All bookings via the Leader.
Leader and Bookings: Howard Ferrer: howferr@gmail.com
Music
1. HF Favourites 1960s
10 July
Music
2. The Hollies and Herman’s Hermits
24 July
Music
3. Music of the 1970s
7 Aug
4. Music of the 1980s
21 Aug
5. Music from 1963 - 1965
4 Sept Music
6. Music from 1966 - 1967
18 Sept Music
7. Music from 1968 - 1969
2 Oct
Music
8. Beatles 1
16 Oct
Music
9. Beatles 2
30 Oct
Music
10. The Rolling Stones
13 Nov
Music
11. Manfred Mann and Dion
27 Nov
Photography
CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
Alternate Fridays from 11 July 10:00 to 12:00
Regular photo assignments to be taken in your own time, plus occasional photoshoot outings to local locations. Feedback via regular Zoom sessions, with some tutorial based sessions. Places are limited; previous participants are welcome to re-join.
Leader: Ian Thompson: collaroyplateau@hotmail.com 0408 603 880
Leader and Bookings: Laurie Wilson: wlaurie118@gmail.com 0417 045 934
Spanish Language
SPANISH CONVERSATION
Alternate Tuesdays from 15 July 14:00 to 16:00
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: Jennifer Brady: jennybry30@hotmail.com
0403 923 555
THURSDAYS ON ZOOM
Alternate Thursdays from 17 July 10:00 to 12:00
Enquiries: Rosemarie Einstein: einstein@starmer.net.au
Health
1. Hearing and brain health 17 July
Hearing loss is the most readily modifiable risk factor for dementia. Andrew will explore the impact of untreated hearing loss and how to overcome barriers with simple and effective treatments.
Presenter: Andrew Campbell
Science
2. The science of dreams 31 July
The latest research into sleep and dreaming is revealing answers to: Why do we need sleep? Why do we need to dream while we sleep?
Why are dreams often so weird?
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Science
3. Extraordinary eyes and how animals see the world 14 Aug
For us the world can be a stunning place, but what is it like for members of the animal kingdom, and what function does colour serve for them?
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Current Affairs Sociology
4. Understanding domestic violence 28 Aug
How to recognise the early signs of domestic abuse, start conversations with silent victims, seek help, and prevent murders. AVO’s, imprisonment and a case study of domestic violence
Presenter: Maria Imelda Argel
Current Affairs
5. The new India (Part 1) 11 Sept
The world’s largest democracy is changing as its leader embraces the Presidents of both Russia and USA.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Current Affairs
6. The new India (Part 2) 25 Sept
The world’s largest democracy is changing as its leader embraces the Presidents of both Russia and USA.
Presenter: Peter Nixon
Book any course online at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
Health
7. Pain and pleasure
9 Oct
Pain and Pleasure are antonyms. There is only a fine line separating them. Yet, our brain understands these two opposing sensations differently. Let’s learn more.
Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake
Famous People Science
8. The life and work of Sir Isaac Newton (1642 – 1727)
23 Oct
A look at the astonishing life of this incredible man. The Genius of Woolsthorpe -scientist, mathematician and astronomer.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Culture History
9. A brief history of gold
6 Nov
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
Communication
10. Think on your feet and engage your audience
20 Nov
Allan and Dale’s workshop teaches strategies for thinking on your feet, structuring meaningful responses, and practising new frameworks interactively during the fun, fast-paced and supportive session.
Presenters Allan Rees and Dale Clark
Mandarin
MANDARIN (max 30)
Every second Monday from 21 July 10:00 to 12:00
This continuing course is intended for Sydney u3a members who want to learn Mandarin by means of learning Chinese characters and sentences using Pinyin. Your level of Mandarin will determine which Monday class as your start date: 21 or 28 July.
Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan: stanyan100@hotmail.com 0408 544 925
TRAVEL AND HISTORY
Fourth Tuesday of the Month from 22 July 14:00 to 16:00
Enjoy armchair travel as various members share their travel journeys, including the intriguing history of the places they have travelled.
Leader and Bookings: Karen Paterson: karenpaterson@optusnet.com.au 0419 259 387
History Travel
1. Cruising the Baltic
22 July
Once sailed by Viking explorers, a Baltic Sea cruise is a wonderful travel experience as you engage in Northern Europe’s numerous cultures, history, languages and natural beauty.
Presenter: Greg Organ
History Travel
2. Blues and the enslaved people of America
26 Aug
It is not new for America to have the Blues. As we travelled the ‘Blues Highway’, we explored the history and cultural significance of blues music. Our self-guided tour from Washington D.C. to Chicago, Memphis and New Orleans helped us to understand how Blues music helped enslaved people from North West Africa survive the hardships in their new country. This presentation will include music and museums linked to the Blues.
Presenter: Michele Sacco
History Travel
3. Western Canada and Alaska
23 Sept
Western Canada and Alaska are rich in indigenous history and natural beauty with diverse landscapes and breathtaking views along the Pacific Ocean side of the Rocky Mountains. The indigenous nations (such as the Aleuts, Inuit, Athabaskans, Haida and Shuswap) inhabited these exquisite areas for thousands of years before European colonisation. Enjoy this northern journey from Vancouver through to Juneau.
Presenter: Jennie Greenwell
History Travel
4. Jewels of Europe
28 Oct
As we get ready to travel amidst the jewels of this continent, be ready for this classic journey across a continent filled with both natural and human wonder: ancient castles, charming villages, forested hillsides, idyllic vineyards, ‘romantic’ towns, humorous sculptures and more.
Presenter: Karen Paterson
History Travel
5. The Canadian Railway Trilogy
25 Nov
Ever taken a train journey across a vast country with geography that changes from the Rocky Mountains, to fields of canola and the bluest skies in the world, through to the Great Lakes and onward to the best lobster in the world (east coast Canada)? Well, we won’t be going that far this time but we will learn about the tears shed and the construction of Canada’s transcontinental railway, a promise to British Columbia upon its entry into Confederation, and how this railway played an important role in the development of this wonderful country.
Presenter: Linda Gibson-Langford
French Language
FRENCH INTERMEDIATE
Alternate Wednesdays from 23 July 09:30 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.
All bookings via the Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Ethleen Low: ethlow@bigpond.net.au 0418 161 706
MORE GREAT MOMENTS IN SCIENCE
Hosted by Ian Thompson
Alternate Wednesdays from 23 July 10:00 to 12:00
Leader and Bookings: David Malone: dymalone@bigpond.net.au 0418 440 828
Photography Science
1. Fake views
23 July
The camera never lies...or does it? How images, still and moving, have been “faked” over the years, from glass plates to artificial intelligence.
Presenter: Dr. Laurie Wilson
Science Famous People
2. Nikola Tesla - brilliant engineer but tragic eccentric
6 Aug
Discover the life and accomplishment of the engineer who contributed to the design of modern alternating current (AC) electricity supply systems.
Presenter: Prof. Don Napper
Food History
3. Australian culinary history
20 Aug
The changes in food and culture from convict ships to the present day.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Science Human Body
4. The science of dreams
3 Sept
Exploring the latest research into sleep and dreaming, revealing answers to questions such as why do we need sleep, why do we need to dream when we sleep and why are dreams often so weird?
Presenter: Kevin Murray
Science Environment
5. Journey to the centre of the earth
17 Sept
We know a lot about the heavens but what lies beneath our feet is shrouded in mystery. So lets learn about our planet, the volcanoes, tsunamis and more.
Presenter: Das Dassanayake
History Maritime
6. Dusk to dawn - the history of lighthouses
1 Oct
The history and development of lighthouses around the world plus a look at some lighthouses along the NSW coast. We also study the location and uses of shipping navigation lights within Sydney Harbour.
Presenter: Ian Thompson
Science Food
7. Antarctica to Artemis
15 Oct
Food production on the moon and Mars.
Presenter: Diana Noyce
Science Technology
8. Seeing without light
29 Oct
We now have many ways to form images other than with light. Some examples are infrared, millimetre wave, ultraviolet, X-rays, acoustic electron microscopes and more.
Presenter: Dr. Laurie Wilson
course
Science Medical Matters
9. AI in healthcare
12 Nov
The application of AI in the field of healthcare.
Presenter: Andrew Holt
Science Famous People
10. The fabulous Campbells
26 Nov
The dynasty of speed and the contribution the Campbells made to this endeavour.
Presenter: Dick Whitaker
Mandarin
MANDARIN P.I.E.S. (Practice in Everyday Speaking)
Every Friday from 25 July 13:00 to 15:00
These sessions are for learners of Mandarin who want to practice and improve their listening and speaking skills. Activities range from basic everyday conversation, presentation of stories and discussions facilitated by native Mandarin speakers.
Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan: stanyan100@hotmail.com 0408 544 925
Famous People Music History
THE GOLDEN YEARS OF POP MUSIC (max 40)
Alternate Mondays from 28 July 14:00 to 15:30
Memories and history of 20th century music. Hits of the past will come to life. Video clips and biographies presented. Paul has played in bands, has tertiary qualifications in music and adult education and lectured in pop music history.
Leader and Bookings: Paul Hurst: paulh150@hotmail.com 0414 354 173
Spanish
POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH
Every Monday from 4 Aug 14:00 to 16:00
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)
Second Thursday every month. from 14 Aug 14:00 to 16:00
(Not in 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: Gregory Organ cjgjorgan@gmail.com
at www.sydneyu3a.org, unless it states that bookings are via the Booking Secretary.
A Africa Europe History 31
Africa History Europe 31
Agriculture Science Food 30
Archaeology 22
History Ancient 44
Architecture 18
Art 12, 15, 17, 36, 38, 51
Appreciation 21, 22, 32, 45
Craft 23
Culture 8
Drawing Painting 40
Famous People 12
Galleries Art Appreciation 11 History 31 Painting 39, 40, 48
Photography 17
Astronomy History Australia 14 Australia 38
B Book Group 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 24, 27, 29, 34, 38, 45, 47, 49, 50
Discussion Group 44 Literature 22, 37
Bridge Cards Games 43 Games 42
Broadcasting 38, 47
Famous People 51
C Calligraphy 27
Cards Canasta 43
Cinema 30, 51
Discussion Group Movies 11 History Culture 51 History Economics 31
Movies 12, 15, 17, 20, 35
Communication 55
Computers Technology 17
Craft 13, 38
History Culture 21
Creative Writing 23, 25, 50 Language 53
Crime 13, 14
Economics 43 Croquet 16
Games 42
Crosswords 13, 53 Culture 32, 33, 41
Broadcasting 32 History 55
Current Affairs 11, 18, 40, 53, 54
Discussion Group 44 Education 21 Sociology 54
D Dance 10, 22, 27, 31, 45, 47, 48, 51
Desktop Flying 27
Discussion Group 11, 16, 17, 21, 23, 25, 29
Current Affairs 25, 37, 51, 52, 53
Movies 40, 53
Drawing 22 Sketching 14
E Economics 32, 46 Investment 11, 26
Environment Nature 49
Europe History 30 Exercise 41, 42
F Famous People 12, 13, 28, 36
Movies 28
Music History 54, 56 Science 12, 55
Technology Computers 44
Food History 30, 56
Forensic science 36
France 12
French Language 55
G Games 22, 25, 52
Bridge 10, 44
Canasta Cards 52 Canasta Mah Jong 27
Cards 42
Mah Jong 29, 43, 51
Pétanque 15
Pickleball 46
Genealogy 13, 20, 26
Geography 14, 30, 34
Geology 36, 44
Government Services 47
H
Health 18, 30, 32, 33, 36, 42, 43, 46, 47, 54, 55
Human Body 26
Law 49
Medical 12
Medical Matters 34
Psychology 33
History 7, 13, 17, 18, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 42, 43, 49
Ancient 20, 30, 41
Archaeology 31
Australia 23, 24, 47, 48, 51
Australia History Culture Genealogy 13
Australia History World 49
Broadcasting 33
China 42
Culture 21
Culture Society 46
Current Affairs 32
Famous People 33
Food 31
Genealogy 25
Geography 32, 34
Language English 34
Literary 26
Local Architecture 7
Local Walking 6, 7
Maritime 18, 56
Medical Matters 37, 37
Movies Technology 35
Music 27
Nature 26
Science 26, 34
Technology 12
Travel 36, 55
World 47, 51
Human Body 28, 33, 35
Medical Matters, 32
I
Indigineous Australians 14
Information Technology 12
Investment 13
Italian 53
Italy Language Travel 48
J
Japan Travel 51
L Language 32
ESL 10
French 11, 16, 19, 39, 40, 41, 50
German 49, 52
Italian 21, 22
Italian 22
Japanese 10, 13
Latin 39, 47, 49
Mandarin 11
Russian 53
Spain Travel 48
Spanish 49, 53
Law 27, 5
Crime 21
Medical 47
Legal 8, 18, 29, 40
Australia 30
Literature 9, 18, 20, 35, 47
Language English 14
Logic 44
M
Mandarin 55, 56
Maritime 13, 14
Mathematics 17
Medical 36
Health 12
Medicine Health 29
Movies 10, 26, 31, 38
Cinema 42,
Publishing 41
Music 20, 28, 33, 34, 35, 42, 43, 46, 48, 54
Appreciation 19, 21
Cinema Movies 14
Famous People 33
Guitar 39
History 21
Music Appreciation 45
Opera 26
Performance 39
Recorder 11, 41, 29, 49
Singing 39
Theatre 43
Ukulele 13, 39, 50
N
Nature 11, 42, 46
Craft 43
Disasters 46
Nutrition History Science 18
O
Opera Music Appreciation 18
Outdoor Outings 26
Outdoors Eating Out 15, 23, 36
Walks 52
Outings 8
P
Philosophy 14, 15, 39, 48
Photography 14, 5
Science, 56
Poetry 12, 31, 50
Politics 51
Current Affairs 18
Psychology 12
Q
Qigong 10
Tai chi 10, 40
R
Relaxation Exercise 10
S
Science 21, 27, 28, 32, 33, 34, 35, 38, 44, 51, 54
Environment 26, 56
Famous People 18, 56
Food 56
History 44
Human Body 31, 36, 56
Medical Matters 43, 56
Music Mathematics Physics 44
Nature 44
Technology 32, 36, 56
Sculpture 14
Singing 22
Sketching Urban Sketching 22
Sociology 26,
History 11
Spanish 53, 56
Language 40, 41, 54
T
Table Tennis 41
Tai Chi 15, 25, 47, 48
Technology 20, 29, 33, 46
Theatre 42, 43
Transport 49
History 30
Travel 9, 13, 14, 20, 35, 42, 56
History 33
Trivia 43
Games 21
U Ukulele Music 39
W
Walking 23, 26
History 6
World 46
Writing 12
Y Yoga 40, 41
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.