NEVER STOP LEARNING: University of the Third Age Margaret River committee member and course leader Margaret Taylor, and steering committee chairperson Margaret Auld encourage all seniors to take part in the fun courses offered by U3A.
IF you are over 55 years of age and want to learn painting, mosaics, or talk about philosophy or nineteenth-century novels, the University of the Third Age is tailor-made for you.
U3A Margaret River is a not-for-profit series of courses at affordable rates, taught “for members by members”.
Steering committee chairperson Margaret Auld said the courses offered “anything and everything”.
U3A started in Margaret River when the Augusta-Margaret River Shire Council was approached with the idea of starting it up locally.
The council arranged a meeting and a steering committee was formed to initiate courses.
U3A Margaret River was launched on July 26, and now has 40 members.
U3A is part of an international movement founded in France in 1973 to promote and practice lifelong learning through low-cost educational opportunities, in a relaxed, informal environment for seniors.
The use of the word ‘university’ stems from its original meaning: a community of people sharing knowledge.
No prior educational qualifications are required and there are no tests or exams.
There are no distinctions between the teachers and the taught – members can be both.
Current courses are mosaics for beginners, a book discussion group, beginners’ crochet, and philosophy, each for a cost of $5.
Courses for October are an introduction to astronomy, and painting with acrylics.
Anyone with an interest or skill they want to share can offer to teach a course.
The committee is also looking at holding talks that are open to all members, which will be advertised.
If you are interested in becoming a member, phone 0407 995 307, or email mru3a2012@gmail.com.
Enrolment forms are also available in the foyer of the Margaret River Library.
