6-3851 Syd U3A Semester-2-2026-FINAL_KC

SYDNEY u3a INC. learn laugh live

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

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

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

7 REGIONS

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

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

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

GREATER 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.

General enquiries

Central Office Suite 502, Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts 280 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW Monday to Friday 10:00 - 1:00 Ph: 02 9267 9056 or email: mail@sydneyu3a.org Web: www.sydneyu3a.org

Specific enquiries

CONTENTS

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

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

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

COURSE LISTING ORDER

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.

BOOKING A COURSE

The main way to book a course is using our 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. Things to note are:

• Some courses have a maximum number of attendees, which will be indicated in SUMMIT or brackets after the title; e.g. (max 10).

• If a course is full you may add yourself to a waiting list in SUMMIT. If a vacancy occurs in the course, you may be offered a position in it, depending on how many members are on the waiting list.

• 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 other members on the 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.

INSURANCE

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

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

PRINCIPAL OFFICERS

President Gavin Crawford president.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

VP Education Vicki Moss vpeducation@sydneyu3a.org

VP Public Relations Beena Dhupelia vppublicrelations.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

Treasurer Patrick McGovern sydu3a.treasurer@gmail.com

Secretary Marg McKee secretary.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

Admin Manager Marilyn Noonan mgrad.sydneyu3a@gmail.com

REGIONAL PRESIDENTS

City and Inner West

Dianne Bierhuizen

dianne.bierhuizen@gmail.com

Eastern Sandra See sandra.I.see@gmail.com

Endeavour Southern

Greater West

Harbourside North

Northern Beaches

Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Michele Sacco president_greaterwest@sydneyu3a.org

Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com

Lynda Cronshaw nbpres.sydu3a@gmail.com

Upper North TBA

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Welcome to our Semester 2 coursebook!

This is an invigorating time for Sydney u3a as we welcome a new Executive Team alongside several new Regional Presidents. This dedicated group is working with immense enthusiasm to refresh our programs and ensure a warm, inclusive welcome for all our new members. Their energy is a testament to the strength of our community and our shared commitment to lifelong learning.

To support this momentum, I plan on attending courses and events across all our regions this semester. I am eager to experience the diversity of our sessions firsthand and, most importantly, to meet as many of you as possible. Whether you are a long-standing member or joining us for the first time, I look forward to sharing a conversation with you soon and making this semester our most connected one yet.

Gavin Crawford.

President, Sydney u3a

A MESSAGE FROM THE VP EDUCATION

Welcome to all new members and thank you to everyone involved in delivering the hundreds of courses Sydney u3a is offering this year, especially those of you who have suggested and implemented innovative ideas. In my first year as Vice-President Education, almost 20 new courses have been introduced, including topics such as Books, Bridge, Croquet, History, Language, Perfume, Poetry, Scrabble, Theatre, & Walking.

Welcome to our new executive board members: Marg McKee, Secretary; and Beena Dhupelia, Vice-President, Public Relations.

In February/March this year, I worked together with speaker coordinators (who organise talks) to create a list detailing all speakers who give presentations across Sydney u3a and the topics they speak about. Thanks to 20 rainy days in March, I completed the list sooner than I expected. As the list is available to all the coordinators who organise talks across Sydney u3a, each venue now has available to them a greater variety of speakers than previously. Vicki Moss.

VP Education, Sydney u3a

EVENTS

GUIDED VISIT TO AUBURN GALLIPOLI MOSQUE (max 15)

25 Aug 09:00 to 12:45

The Gallipoli Mosque at Auburn, the religious centre of the Australian Turkish Muslim community, can accommodate more than 1600 worshippers. It was constructed between 1986 and 1999, using finishes, materials and fixtures imported from Türkiye. The works were primarily funded by the local Muslim community, which contributed some $6 million over 13 years. The design of the Ottoman-style mosque is inspired by the Marmara University Mosque in Istanbul. The main dome is 22.6m high and has an internal circumference of 16.6m, with the minarets standing 34m high. In the centre hangs a beautiful crystal chandelier. Dress code: modest attire required for entry to the Mosque. Please wear long, loose clothing. Cost: $5, payable on the day. Optional lunch afterwards at local Lebanese restaurant.

EMAIL BOOKINGS ONLY to Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com. Places determined by ballot. Priority given to members who provide membership number, expiry date and telephone number.

BOOKINGS OPEN at 9am Monday 10 August and CLOSE at 5pm Wednesday 12 August. Places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 14 August. If unsuccessful, you will also be notified and placed on a waiting list. Details of meeting place and time given once bookings confirmed.

Information only: Beatrice Scheepers 0402 969 004 Leader and Booker: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com

PADDINGTON ART CRAWL (max 15)

8 Sep 10:00 to 12:00

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

Meet 10am at bus stop near corner of Oxford and William Streets, Paddington. Bus routes 333, 352, 440.

ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY

BOOKINGS OPEN on Monday 31 August

Information only: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com 0402 969 004

EVENTS

GUIDED VISIT TO SYLVAN GROVE NATIVE GARDEN (max

12)

22 Sep 09:00 to 12:45

Sylvan Grove Native Garden at Picnic Point is maintained by Canterbury-Bankstown Council to showcase Australian native plants to the community. It has over 1,500 species of native plants which have been lovingly gathered and nurtured from all over Australia. Situated in a pleasant natural setting, the Garden is a unique haven of natural bushland displayed along a winding bush track through rainforest areas and sunny spots.

Requirements: reasonable fitness, sturdy shoes, weather protection, water. Uneven terrain, not suitable for anyone with mobility issues.

Train 9.12 from Central, Platform 23; Bus 923 from Revesby bus interchange to stop on corner of Burns Road and Picnic Point Road; 1km walk to venue. Limited street parking.

EMAIL BOOKINGS ONLY to Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com. 12 places determined by ballot. Priority given to members who provide membership number, expiry date and telephone number.

BOOKINGS OPEN at 9am Monday 14 September and CLOSE at 5pm Wednesday 16 September. Successful applicants notified by 5pm Friday 18 September.

Information only: Beatrice Scheepers 0402 969 004

Leader and Booker: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com

MALT, MIRRORS AND MODERNISM - GUIDED TOUR OF CENTRAL PARK

(max 15)

6 Oct 10:00 to 12:00

This vibrant urban village on Broadway is the talk of the town. The old Tooth’s Brewery site has been transformed into a place of engineering marvels, stunning design and the world’s tallest vertical garden. Clever restoration has revitalised the industrial heritage, the landscape architecture provides a calming complement to the high rise intensity, and the joint is jumping with quaint cafés, small bars and fine cuisine. Underneath it all fall flows an old watercourse, witness to past greed, exploitation and foul deeds. Requirements: reasonable fitness, sturdy shoes, weather protection, water.

EMAIL BOOKINGS ONLY to Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com. 15 places determined by ballot. Priority given to members who provide membership number, expiry date and telephone number.

BOOKINGS OPEN at 9am Monday 14 September and CLOSE at 5pm Wednesday 16 September. 15 places to be determined by ballot. Results notified by 5pm Friday 18 September. If unsuccessful, you will also be notified and placed on a waiting list. Details of meeting place and time given once bookings confirmed.

Information only: Beatrice Scheepers 0402 969 004

Leader and Booker: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com

EVENTS

DARLING HARBOUR WALK

(max 15)

16 Oct 09:15 to 12:30

This tour will bring to life the experiences and challenges surrounding the Darling Harbour Freeway construction. It is led by Max Underhill, a construction engineer on the freeway project between 1974-79.

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, constructing in a goods yard, Jack Mundey and more. Then we will pass 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: Maxwell Underhill maxwellunderhill@gmail.com 0407 998 516

Bookings: Anna Underhill annajunderhill@gmail.com 0411 361 156

LUNCH AT THE STRANGERS’ RESTAURANT

(max 12)

20 Oct 12:00 to 14:00

Come and enjoy a delicious three-course meal in the Strangers’ Restaurant at NSW Parliament House, with lovely views across The Domain. Choose an entrée, main and dessert, followed by coffee/tea, from the set menu, for $95. Sides and wines are extra. Specific dietary requirements may incur additional fee. Bills can be settled individually on the day, but I require a $30 deposit to secure your reservation. The deposit is refundable unless you cancel within 24 hours of the event. Payment details given when booking confirmed. Details of meeting place and time disclosed once payments have been processed. Organiser: Beatrice Scheepers

ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY

BOOKINGS OPEN on Monday 14 September.

Information only: Beatrice Scheepers 0402 969 004

Booker: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com

EVENTS

MOVERS, SHAKERS and TROUBLEMAKERS

- The Unsung Women of Macquarie Street (max 15)

3 Nov 09:00 to 12:00

The largely unsung women of Macquarie Street left their mark on early Sydney and on its later history. Some dressed wounds, donned wigs or trod the boards. Others mixed potions, wrote books or learnt how to be ‘dutiful wives’. There were artists and archivists, convicts and countesses, orphans and opera singers, pilferers and philanthropists. Come and discover some of their remarkable stories on this walk down Macquarie Street. Leader: Beatrice Scheepers

Requirements: reasonable fitness levels, weather protection, good walking shoes, water

ONLINE BOOKINGS ONLY

BOOKINGS OPEN on Monday 19 October and CLOSE on Wednesday 21 October. 15 places to be determined by ballot. Successful applicants notified by 5pm Friday 23 October. If unsuccessful you will also be notified and placed on a waiting list. Details of meeting place and time given once bookings confirmed.

Information only: Beatrice Scheepers 0402 969 004.

Leader and Booker: Beatrice Scheepers egoranje@gmail.com

SYDNEY u3a 20th LITERARY FESTIVAL (max 80)

17 to 19 February 2027

Tales and Trails

The 20th Literary Festival is on 17-19 February in the historic Carrington Hotel at Katoomba. The theme Tales and Trails will cover literary works across diverse genres (novels, poetry, song, movies and drama). The tales might even inspire you to travel to a particular region or maybe place it on your bucket list - essentially a passport through storytelling. 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.

Booking Form will be uploaded to the Sydney u3a website under Events on 1st September 2026. Once you have filled in Booking Form, please send to Delegate Coordinator at gwr1u3a@gmail.com. You will be advised when your booking is confirmed. The payment details will then be sent to you and then payment can be made.

Full details for the 20th Literary Festival will be on the Sydney u3a website under Events

CITY AND INNER WEST

President: Dianne Bierhuizen dianne.bierhuizen@gmail.com 0402 152 307

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

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

ASHFIELD: CARDINAL FREEMAN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

137 Victoria St

Parking available Wheelchair access Games Bridge BRIDGE FOR THE LESS COMPETITIVE

Every Tuesday from 7 Jul 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

ASHFIELD: CLUB ASHFIELD

5-7 Charlotte St

2nd Level. (lift available) Parking onsite

Tai Chi Qigong

QIGONG, FAN, AND COLLABORATIVE TAI CHI (max 18)

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 10:30 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

Class begins withBa 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 22 Jul 10:10 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 0412 134 300

Qigong

COLLABORATIVE QIGONG (max 15)

Every Friday from 24 Jul 10:10 to 11:40 (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

Dance

LATIN DANCE COURSE: SALSA, CHA-CHA, JIVE (max 20)

Every Thursday from 3 Sep 11:10 to 12:40 (excluding school holidays)

Join us for some fun and fitness through dancing. No partners required. Start with gentle warm up exercises. Move at your own pace, engaging mind and body in learning steps from popular dance styles, guided by a DanceSport registered coach. Other Latin/Ballroom dances may also be explored. CONFIRM Start date with leader BEFORE booking.

Leader: Nazni Farooq

Bookings: Lois Margaret Knight lmknight66@gmail.com

BURWOOD RSL

parking onsite, train station nearby Economics Investment INVESTMENT DISCUSSION GROUP

Alternate Thursdays from 2 Jul 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

Bookings: Bill Markham wm55708@gmail.com 0419 260 848

Discussion Group

SOCIAL ISSUES AND CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 24)

Alternate Fridays from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:30

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

Leader and Bookings: Graham Murphy gramur@bigpond.com

Movies

CLASSIC MOVIES

Alternate Wednesdays from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:30

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

Leader: Hugh Watson

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

Language Japanese

ELEMENTARY JAPANESE

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 09:00 to 10:15 (excluding school holidays)

Basic conversational Japanese with a taste of the written language.

Leader: Jan O’Loughlin

Bookings: Maria Daniele maria.daniele3@gmail.com 0414 560 951

Language Japanese

POST ELEMENTARY JAPANESE

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 10:30 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

The course includes conversation, culture, shared travel experiences and hiragana script.

Leaders: Haruko Sageman-Johansson and Takiko Yaliche

Bookings: Maria Daniele maria.daniele3@gmail.com 0414 560 951

BURWOOD: CLUB BURWOOD

Cnr Burwood Rd and George St train station nearby

Current Affairs

DISCUSSION GROUP CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 18)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 10:15 to 12:15

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

TWO MASSIVE SEMINAL EVENTS

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 10:15 to 12:15

World War One and Two are pivotal points which changed the whole face of the globe. A vital account and study.

Leader: Frank Wilson

Bookings: Kerry Brand gbennell4@gmail.com 0431 598 106

Travel TRAVEL PLUS LUNCH

Second Tuesday of the month from 14 Jul 10:15 to 12:15 Meet other avid travellers; share your travel experiences, tips and recommendations. Special emphasis on history and culture. After the meeting we will have lunch.

Leader: Gregory Buriak buriak@optusnet.com.au 0422 599 417

Bookings: Michael Newton michaeljnewton61@gmail.com 0408 779 834

BURWOOD: WOODSTOCK COMMUNITY CENTRE

22 Church St

Parking available

Language - Mandarin

MANDARIN CHINESE CONVERSATION (max 15)

Every Wednesday from 1 Jul 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 8 Jul 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

Music Recorder RECORDER GROUP

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 (excluding school holidays)

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

Lunch afterwards at Burwood RSL.

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

CITY: SYDNEY u3a OFFICE

Suite 502 Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts 280 Pitt Street train station nearby, bus stop nearby French

FRENCH CONVERSATION (max 15)

Every Wednesday from 1 Jul 13:00 to 15:00

Looking to boost your French speaking skills in a relaxed, social setting? This isn’t a formal class- no grammar drills, pressure or stress: just casual, engaging conversation to help you build confidence and fluency. We’ll chat about travel, food, fashion and dining out. Intermediate to advanced speakers welcome. Due to the long waiting list, trial access to this class is not available. PLEASE CONTACT the Leader/Booker BEFORE Signing Up.

Leader and Bookings: Veronica Hibbs vhibbs@outlook.com

Art Galleries Art Appreciation DECONSTRUCTING CONTEMPORARY ART (max 25)

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

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

Leader: Wendy Fraser Bookings: Marilyn Hunnisett mhunnisett@bigpond.com

Book Group

WHAT IT MEANS TO BE HUMAN: An immersion program (max 16)

First Friday of the month from 3 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

A deep dive into broadly humanist belief from 1000 BCE Persia, through Mesopotamia, Asia, the Middle East, Greece, Rome, the Renaissance and after to arrive at its modern secular form. There will be a lot of reading. Contact the Leader/Booker before Signing Up Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink rasberryink@icloud.com

Book Group

CITY READING GROUP (max 17)

Every Second and Fourth Friday from 10 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

Join us around the table as we read, discuss and rediscover one classic work at a time. Currently reading Homer’s Odyssey.

Leader and Bookings: Elle Rasink rasberryink@icloud.com

Cinema Movies

FILM APPRECIATION (max 17)

Alternate Mondays from 13 Jul 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 0410 603 425

TUESDAYS IN THE CITY (max 33)

Most Tuesdays from 21 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

Bookings: Veronica Yeung sanpuiman@hotmail.com

War

1. Gas Warfare on the Western Front (max 33)

21 Jul

German chemist, Fritz Haber, awarded the 1918 Nobel Prize for chemistry for developing artificial fertilizer, despite responsibility for poisonous gas warfare on the Western Front 1915.

Presenter: Don Napper

Photography

2. Photos which made Australia (max 33) 28 Jul

12 Iconic images from 1945 to 2013 showing the development of photograph art and technology over time and reflecting who we are.

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Internet

3. Your Identity is important - Let’s protect it (max 33)

4 Aug

Learn the value of your personal information and how to protect it. How to spot a scam, proactive steps to avoid becoming the victim of identity theft.

Presenter: John Quek

Architecture

4. A history of lighthouses (max 33)

11 Aug

History & development of lighthouses around the world; some lighthouses along the NSW coast; the location and uses of navigation lights within Sydney Harbour.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

History Australia Maritime

5. Title Stories of Sydney Harbour (max 33)

18 Aug

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

Death

6. From near-death to death-tech (max 33)

25 Aug

Rebecca attended her own funeral. Hear her extraordinary tale of survival, self reinvention and innovation in creating a business: The ‘funeral book’ a digital Memorial

Presenter: Rebecca Munns

Sculpture

7. The science, history and use of clay (max 33)

1 Sep

Clay production from start to finish. The influence of archaeology and culture on clay products as well as health and safety issues.

Presenter: David Malone

Indigenous Australians

8. Australia’s Indigenous World Heritage Sites (max 33)

8 Sep

Indigenous aspects of four mixed sites, two more recent sites listed for Indigenous cultural aspects only, and possible future sites will be covered.

Presenter: Graeme Aplin

Travel

9. Meandering to Manilla (max 33)

15 Sep

With a typewriter in his backpack, Keith Dalton explored Southeast Asia for 18 months before he became a foreign correspondent in the Philippines.

Presenter: Keith Dalton

Storytelling

10. Everyone’s got a story to tell (max 33)

22 Sep

In practical terms, how do we go about unlocking stories that we have always wanted to tell but haven’t quite known how to?

Presenter: Ned Manning

Health

11. How our bones play a role in keeping us healthy (max 33)

29 Sep

Caring for our bones, to keep our skeleton in good working order, to reduce falls and to care for our immune system.

Presenter: Winsome Baker

Famous People

12. Julian Assange – Hero or Villain? (max 33)

6 Oct

Assange forced us to confront difficult issues in journalism, free speech & the power of the internet. Explore how Wikileaks embarrassed governments; Assange’s years of hiding, arrest & conviction.

Presenter: David Hirsch

History Australia Famous People

13. Arthur Phillip (max 33)

13 Oct

From Ship’s Bay to farmer, global adventurer, spy and our first Governor. His mysterious death still engages and intrigues the historians.

Presenter: Geoff Davidson

Health Sociology Culture

14. Gender, Sexuality, and LGBTIQ Issues (max 33)

20 Oct

Social structures and identity. Explores how most people are raised with rigid gender norms and assumptions that heterosexuality is normal. These assumptions hurt many.

Presenter: Patricia Thornton

Music Travel

15. Cuba: a musical journey (max 33)

27 Oct

A short history/context of Cuba followed by a presentation of Graham’s visit to Cuba in 2017, which focused on meeting and singing with a range of Cuban musicians and groups.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Geography

16. Desert and Dessert (max 33)

3 Nov

Short talk about why the stunning Atacama in north Chile is the driest nonpolar desert in the world; followed by savory afternoon tea for a contribution.

Presenter: Vicki Moss

Famous People

17. A ‘Saint’ from All Saints (max 33)

10 Nov

A mystery story that spans continents, tells of religious commitment, adventure, courage, heroism, kinship, sickness and health, and both sad and happy times.

Presenter: Chris Schofield

Famous People History Australia

18. Charles Darwin in Australia (max 33)

17 Nov

As part of his 1830s world voyage, Darwin called at Sydney, Hobart and King George’s Sound. Observations made helped him formulate his theory of evolution.

Presenter: Graeme Aplin

War

19. Three Vietnam wars and first to fight (max 33)

24 Nov

1. The histories of the three Vietnam wars, spanning from 1946 until reunification in 1975.

2. In 1914 the Australian contingent in New Guinea defeated the Germans.

Presenter: David Wilkins

Investment

SUPERANNUATION DEMYSTIFIED (max 33)

Alternate Thursdays from 23 Jul 13:30 to 15:30 (3 sessions)

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

Writing

CITY WRITING CLUB (max 14)

Alternate Mondays from 10 Aug 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

Genealogy

OPENING THE DOOR TO FAMILY HISTORY (max 25)

Alternate Thursdays from 3 Sep 13:30 to 15:30 (8 sessions)

Glenn Martin discusses how to open the doors to family history. Glenn has pursued family history for over a decade and has written several books about people in his family tree. This shows the different approaches needed to discover what you don’t know about your ancestors.

Leader and Bookings: Glenn Martin glennpmartin@optusnet.com.au 0421 440 557

CONDELL PARK CLUB

178 Eldridge Rd

parking onsite

Scrabble

SOCIAL SCRABBLE (max 12)

Every Second and Fourth Thursday from 9 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

Come and meet people and play scrabble. It will be a bit competitive but mainly just fun.

Leader and Bookings: Alison Rose indigodunn56@gmail.com 0419 290 311

GLEBE: LIBRARY

186 Glebe Point Rd

Book Group

FIRST FRIDAY BOOK GROUP (max 12)

First Friday of the month from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Favourite books are chosen by members for discussion by the group. New members are very welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Anne Martin marto59.am@gmail.com 0429 129 077

Language Japanese

JAPANESE INTERMEDIATE

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (excluding school holidays)

This ongoing Intermediate Japanese class caters to those who have studied Japanese before, or have lived in Japan, and are not complete beginners. We practise simple conversations in Japanese, learn new kanji characters, and study reading texts, Japanese poetry and proverbs and other interesting material.

Leaders: Takiko Yalichev and Haruk Sageman-Johansson

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

GLEBE: ST HELEN’S COMMUNITY CENTRE

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 2 Jul 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 crosswords together - and laugh a lot. Bring writing materials. $5 contribution for worksheets per semester. New members, even total beginners, are welcome. Tea/coffee available.

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

GLEBE: THE OLD TOWN HALL

160 St Johns Rd

Wheelchair access

Music Ukulele

STRUMMIN’ TOGETHER AGAIN (max 20)

Alternate Thursdays from 9 Jul 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

GLEBE: TOXTETH HOTEL

345 Glebe Point Rd Fireside Lounge, ground floor. Street parking

Philosophy

PHILOSOPHY IN THE PUB (max 10)

Alternate Tuesdays from 14 Jul 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

LEICHHARDT: LIBRARY

23 Norton St

Italian Forum (Piazza level).

Parking available Wheelchair access

FRIDAY MORNINGS AT THE LIBRARY (max 30)

Alternate Fridays from 31 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

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

Politics History Australia Conservation

1. Green Bans (max 30)

31 Jul

The book Green Bans, Red Union: The Saving of a City has just been reissued. Co-author Meredith Burgmann will talk about the heady times that led to the saving of Sydney’s green space and historic suburbs and buildings.

Presenter: Meredith Burgmann

Legal

2. The Lehrmann/Higgins omnishambles (max 30)

14 Aug

Learn about Brittany Higgins’ allegations against Bruce Lehrmann, the aborted trial, the failed defamation case, and the ongoing legal repercussions of what Justice Michael Lee described as an “omnishambles”. Spoiler Alert: Everyone loses.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Music Travel

3. Cuba: A musical journey (max 30)

28 Aug

A short history/context of Cuba followed by a presentation of Graham’s visit to Cuba in 2017 which focused on meeting and singing with range of Cuban musicians and groups.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Astronomy

4. Southern Auroras and Northern Lights (max 30)

11 Sep

Hear about the science behind auroras, some of the associated myths and historical events and find out why there are lots of auroras in 2026.

Presenter: Vicki Moss

Zoology

5. Extraordinary Eyes and How Animals see the World (max 30)

25 Sep

For us the world can be a stunning place but what is it like for other members of the animal kingdom and what function does colour serve for them including finding a mate, defence, camouflage and adaptive colouration?

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Conservation Environment

6. Our progress to renewable energy (max 30)

23 Oct

Since 2025 Australia’s transition to a future of renewable electricity has accelerated. We review what is happening.

Presenter: Dr Robert Eales

History Australia

7. Bass and Flinders (max 30)

6 Nov

Bass and Flinders have always been considered a team, but their association was very short in terms of exploration. The presentation explores the personalities of the two people quite differently from what you might have heard at school.

Presenter: Neville Turbit

Music

8. Behind the Beatles (max 30)

20 Nov

Enjoy some fabulous music and discover the unexpected stories behind some wonderful songs.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Art

9. Jeffrey Smart (max 30)

4 Dec

Experience Australian expatriate artist’s precise and detailed attention to cities, highways and people.

Presenter: Ann Sutherland

LEICHHARDT: ROYAL HOTEL

156 Norton St

Philosophy THE ROYAL PHILOSOPHERS THURSDAY

DISCUSSION GROUP (max 16)

Every Second Thursday from 2 Jul 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

MARRICKVILLE LIBRARY

313 Marrickville Rd

Book Group THE BIG ISSUES BOOK CLUB

Second Thursday of each month from 9 Jul 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 recent publication, germane to what is happening in the world today, chosen by the group.

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

OUT THERE (CITY & INNER WEST)

Art VISITING REGIONAL AND SUBURBAN GALLERIES

Saturday twice a month from 4 Jul 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: Joanne Gordon Joannegordon@bigpond.com 0418 224 211

Contact the Leader before Signing Up Leader and Bookings: Joanne Gordon joannegordon@bigpond.com 0418 224 211

Walking

WALKING ON SUNSHINE (max 20)

Second Thursday of each month from 9 Jul

The aim of the group is to provide a safe environment for members to explore nature, make new friends and improve their fitness within a supportive group. A variety of walks around Sydney and surrounds ranging from medium to easy walks are ledby various members of the group. The walks may be on bush tracks or along streets and urban pathways. Most walks will include an opportunity for morning tea or lunch. Start times will vary.

Leader and Bookings: Tracey Ireland tracey.ireland61@gmail.com 0415 213 712

Games Pétanque

PÉTANQUE GROUP

Every Second Monday from 13 Jul 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. NB. dates can change with weather. Please confirm with course leaders.

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

Outdoors Eating Out

LUNCH OUT AND ABOUT (max 20)

Second Tuesday of the month from 14 Jul 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

Outdoors Eating Out

MUNCH ON BRUNCH

Third Thursday of the month from 16 Jul

Step out and come brunching at a slick café somewhere in the inner city, or perhaps a bit further afield, but mostly close to public transport. Our venues are picked for their enticing food offerings, sharp design and quality coffee. 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

PRIVATE HOMES (CITY & INNER WEST)

0419 017 364

Book Group

INNER WEST BOOK GROUP (max 12)

First Wednesday of the month from 1 Jul 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 Night Swimmers by Roisin Maguire.

Leader and Bookings: Tracey Ireland tracey.ireland61@gmail.com 0415 213 712

REVESBY: COMMUNITY HALL

Macarthur Avenue Street parking

Tai Chi

TAI CHI (max 25)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 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: Christine Chew

Bookings: Jeanette Sutton jeanettes@iprimus.com.au

REVESBY: WORKERS CLUB

20 Brett St

On-site parking

Cinema Movies

FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)

Fourth Tuesday of the month from 28 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Members undertake to view up to three group-selected films screening during the coming month. At every meeting, a volunteer introduces one of the selected films, followed by group discussion. Leader and Bookings: Robyn Deane rdeanee297@gmail.com 0402 258 996

ROZELLE: HANNAFORD CENTRE

608 Darling St (corner Nelson St) Wheelchair access

Discussion Group

DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 (excluding school holidays)

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

CONTACT the Leader/Booker BEFORE Signing Up Leader and Bookings: Barry Bidwell barry_bidwell@yahoo.com.au 0408 607 434

Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 8)

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 10:00 to 11:30

A reasonable knowledge of French grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation is assumed. Reading, writing, listening and speaking activities are used to consolidate and extend that knowledge and those skills. There will be some formal grammar and a few laughs along the way. Before SIGNING UP please CONTACT the Leader/Booker Leader and Bookings: Alan Rodrick alan.rodrick@gmail.com

Language French

ADVANCED FRENCH DISCUSSION (max 12)

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 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 discussion, reading, and games. Members are expected to be actively involved in contributing ideas and material for discussion.

CONTACT the Leader/Booker BEFORE Signing Up Leader and Bookings: Sue Tronser suetronser@gmail.com 0418 673 670

EASTERN

Regional President: Sandra See sandra.I.see@gmail.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.

BONDI JUNCTION: MILL HOTEL

59B Oxford St

Book Group

EASTERN CRIME READERS GROUP

Third Tuesday of the month from 21 Jul 10:15 to 12:00

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

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

BONDI JUNCTION: WAVERLEY LIBRARY

32-48 Denison St

Book Group

WAVERLEY BOOK GROUP

First Thursday of the month from 2 Jul 14:00 to 16:00 Everyone suggests a book they have read or would recommend. New members very welcome. Bookings: Jennifer Woodroffe jenniferwoodroffe@hotmail.com (preferred) 0418 404 881

Mathematics

MATHS IS FOR EVERYONE

Fortnightly on Mondays from 14 Sep 10:30 to 12:00 Each meeting presents a talk on a mathematical topic, after a break, we discuss 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

CLOVELLY SENIOR

CITIZEN CENTRE

40-42 Arden St

On street parking, buses nearby Cinema

FILM DISCUSSION GROUP

Fortnightly on Tuesday from 7 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Each fortnight we see two films in current cinema release. Share your opinion on acting, characters, plots, cinematography.

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

Current Affairs

CURRENT AFFAIRS DISCUSSION GROUP

Fortnightly on Tuesday from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

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

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

Bookings: Zoe Goldstein zoe.r.goldstein@gmail.com 0402 407 105

COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA

25 Rowe St Woollahra wheelchair access via Dawson Lane, Bondi Junction train and bus stops nearby

FRIDAYS AT COA CENTRE WOOLLAHRA

Every Friday from 24 Jul 10:30 to 12:00 NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED

Politics

1. Habitat for Humanity 24 Jul

Over the past 50 years Habitat for Humanity has changed the lives of more than 50 million people by improving their housing.

Presenter: Paul Mulroney

Legal

2. The Julian Assange Case 31 Jul

David Hirsch will explain and analyse the Julian Assange case. Presenter: David Hirsch

Art

3. Jacques-Louis David 7 Aug

Last year the Louvre in Paris held a huge exhibition to mark the 200 th anniversary of the death of David, painter and participant in the French Revolution.

Presenter: Ann Sutherland

Nature

4. John Carne Bidwill 14 Aug

Who was John Carne Bidwill? The guy the Bunya Bunya pine was named after? Rather more. A horticulturist and plant explorer in New South Wales, Queensland, New Zealand and Tahiti.

Presenter: Stuart Read

Art

5. Johannes Vermeer - the painter of timeless vision 21 Aug

Johannes Vermeer was born, lived and worked in Delft and his 35 or so paintings reveal the rich character of Dutch 17th century life.

Presenter: Lorraine Kypiotis

Space

6. Antarctica to Artemis: food on Mars, moon 28 Aug

NASA’s Artemis program aims to put people on the Moon for more than a brief visit. Research under way in Antarctica is helping work out how to grow food for them and for future Mars explorers.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Government Services

7. Dylan Parker: Mayor of Randwick

4 Sep

What does a Mayor do ? How does a Council work? How does a Council resolve problems? Followed by discussion and Q&A.

Presenter: Dylan Parker

History

8. Ken Follet: Weaving History-Crafting Stories 11 Sep

Follet has the ability to engage readers in visualizing living in the era he writes about. His characters are human-well delineated, memorable, flawed - evoking emotional responses. His settings and plots are based on researched historical facts.

Presenter: Linda Foulsham

Legal

9. Mark Tedeschi AM KC 18 Sep

Mark Tedeschi AM KC, prominent Sydney lawyer turned author, will return to present another interesting talk about his latest book.

Presenter: Mark Tedeschi AM KC

History Ancient

10. The Grand Egyptian Museum, Cairo 25 Sep

An illustrated talk with highlights of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo, the site and the new building, Khufu’s world heritage funerary boat, new treasures found in Tutankhamun’s tomb and many more discoveries.

Presenter: Robijn Alexanda

History Australia

11. The Waverley War Memorial Hospital - a history

2 Oct

A history of the Waverley War Memorial Hospital.

Presenter: Audrey McCallum

Technology

12. Life in 2040

9 Oct

Although we have seen much change over our lifetimes, if we could get a glimpse of life in 2040 we would find it unrecognisable. Let’s explore it together.

Presenter: Alec Rubinstein

Politics

13.Dwight Eisenhower - From Obscurity to Greatness 16 Oct

When Dwight Eisenhower left office in 1961, scholars ranked him 22nd out of 34 Presidents. Today he is ranked 5th out of 47. We explore this re-appraisal.

Presenter: Dr Harry Melkonian

Technology

14. A Brief Look at the Life of Bill Gates

23 Oct

How did a bookish kid become a world-shaping IT entrepreneur and later transform into a significant philanthropist?

Presenter: Debbie Rudder

Literature

15. Shakespeare’s History Plays: Fact or Fiction?

30 Oct

We will explore Shakespeare’s blending of fact and fiction in his history plays and in his own life.

Presenter: Robert Englund

Architecture

16. Apartment construction in 1920s Woollahra

6 Nov

Following WWI Woollahra underwent a rapid transformation towards the dynamic, egalitarian, modern place we see today.

Presenter: Larissa Sarkadi

Drama

17. When a convict takes on the role of a captain 13 Nov

Timberlake Wertenbaker wrote a play, Our Country’s Good inspired by Thomas Keneally’s novel The Playmaker which focused on how a play changed convicts’ miserable livesfor a brief spell. Wertenbaker had long-term inmates of an English prison perform her play.

Presenter: Diana Pheils

Conservation

18. Saving threatened species

20 Nov

This talk focuses on native fauna and three intertwined strategies employed to halt declines and reinstate viable populations: captive breeding and release, translocation and safe havens.

Presenter: David Rudder

Art

19. Jeffrey Smart, artist, teacher and critic

27 Nov

One of the most readily recognisable Australian painters, Smart is often considered remote from ordinary life. The talk will show how we might think of Smart as ‘too real, to be real’.

Presenter: Ann Sutherland

History

20. A Lyrical History of Ireland

4 Dec

Ballads and folk songs bring alive historical events through fictional characters and episodes. Late 18C Ireland, through its song and poetry, addresses topics such as rebellion against English rule, famine, migration, sectarianism and The Troubles.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Literature

SHAKESPEARE **NEW**

Fortnightly on Wednesday from 16 Sep 14:00 to 15:00 NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED

Five one hour talks on Shakespeare covering the English history and culture Shakespeare was born into; Shakespeare’s life and career; the rise and rise of the popularity of Shakespeare’s works.

Presenter: Robert Englund

BONDI JUCTION: THE TEA GARDENS HOTEL

2-4 Bronte Rd, buses and train nearby Current Affairs

PODCAST BRUNCH DISCUSSION GROUP

Fortnightly on Tuesday from 14 Jul 13:00 to 15:00 If you like to listen to and discuss podcasts, this could be the group for you. Topics are decided by the group and several podcasts are selected to listen to. We ask AI to guide our discussion when we meet.

Leader: Gavin Crawford gavinhamiltoncrawford@gmail.com

Bookings: Ian Hurst Ian1hurst@msn.com

PADDINGTON: EJ WARD CENTRE

189 Underwood St (cnr George St) bus stop nearby

French

FRENCH CONVERSATION (Advanced)

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 10:30 to 12:00 French language level: it is conversation, not a lesson. To get the most out of this group, you need to be able to speak some French intelligibly and understand others who speak French more fluently.

Leader: Michelle Scheibmair 0414 978 917

Bookings: Polly Moloney poltamplin@hotmail.com

PRIVATE HOMES (EASTERN)

Book Group

ROSE BAY BOOK GROUP

First Wednesday of the month from 1 Jul 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 0414 686 844 or 9371 7250 jannew2@optusnet.com.au

Music

DISCOVERING FINE MUSIC (Randwick)

Fortnightly on Mondays from 13 Jul 14:00 to 16:00 We listen to music from the great masters, focusing on their lesser known works, as well as composers who are often overlooked today. We 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 CLUB

Third Wednesday of the month from 15 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

People come with suggestions of authors to read and discuss. Conversation pivots around what people have read of the authors. At other times we pick a genre to read and discuss: thrillers, biography, science fiction etc. New members are very welcome.

Leader and bookings: Heather Proudfoot heather.proudfoot@gmail.com 0422 297 520

ENDEAVOUR (SOUTHERN)

Regional President: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Regional Course Coordinator: Judy Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

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

CARINGBAH: BOTANY BAY

FAMILY HISTORY RESEARCH CENTRE

184 Gannons Rd

Genealogy

FAMILY HISTORY BASICS - GETTING STARTED (max 10)

One Tuesday 4 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

CRONULLA: SCHOOL OF ARTS

6 Surf Rd,

Upstairs Lecture or Activity room

Travel ARMCHAIR TRAVELLERS (max 60)

First and Third Wednesdays from 1 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Upstairs Lecture Room.

(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: Carmen Izquierdo

Bookings: Kathleen Churcher kchurcher2@hotmail.com

Technology

DISCUSSIONS ABOUT MODERN TECHNOLOGY (max 20)

First Wednesday of the month from 1 Jul 13:00 to 15:00

Upstairs Activity Room

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 with discussion, demonstrations and video presentations. No prior experience necessary.

Leader and Bookings: Peter Day jp_day@outlook.com 0407 787 721

Music

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

First Thursday of the month from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:30

Upstairs Lecture Room

(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

Cinema

AT THE CINEMA (max 65)

First and Third Thursday from 2 Jul 13:30 to 16:00

Upstairs Lecture Room

Experience and discuss some of the best films of 1994 and 1999. A program will be emailed by 25 June.

Enquiries: 8521 7540

Leader and Bookings: Robert Englund

Discussion Group

OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP B (max 15)

First and Third Friday from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Upstairs Activity Room

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 (max 30)

First Friday of the month from 3 Jul 13:00 to 15:00

Upstairs Activity Room

Do you enjoy pub trivia but find the questions are aimed at kids? Join our monthly trivia. Our questions are always themed and the theme for this semester will be years of our life. It could be any year between 1950 and 1989. Come along, every month is different and it’s always fun.

Leader and Bookings: Bradley Burridge burridge07@gmail.com 0419 601 205

CRONULLA MONDAY PRESENTATIONS - TOPICS OF INTEREST (max 75)

Monthly from 6 Jul 10:30 to 12:00

Upstairs Lecture Room

Bookings: Rowena Evans rowenaevans3@bigpond.com 0410 520 701

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Wildlife

1. WIRES (max 75)

6 Jul

Learn about the activities of our Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service (WIRES) to promote habitat protection, species recovery, research and community education - and the role of volunteers in the rescue, transport and immediate care of our native species.

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: Elisa Beecham

Legal

2. From Fishing Dispute to Courtroom Drama (max 75)

10 Aug

A dispute about a fishing competition leads to a man being viciously bashed at Sutherland. Learn about the incompetence of the culprits. grain some insight into excellent police work that saw all those responsible rounded up. Explore the intricacies of otherwise of a trial at Campbelltown District Court and the eventual outcome.

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: Ted Bramble

History Maritime

3. Seafaring Yarns, R.M.S. Titanic, Heroes and Villains (max 75)

14 Sep

The story of the people who were on the ship when it sank in 1912. Includes the story of two Officers, Charles Lightoller on Titanic and James Bisset on Carpathia and their links with Australia.

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: Bruce Shying

History Music

4. Irish History and Song (max 75)

19 Oct

From early times, Ireland told its story through song. In a mostly occupied country, song lyrics supported traditional and nationalistic values, culture and resistance, and retold versions of events. The presentation includes recorded and live music to consider the role of song in C18-C21 Irish History.

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: Graham Spindler

History

5. A History of the Future (max 75)

2 Nov

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

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: Laurie Wilson.

Legal

6. Missing, Presumed Dead (max 75) 14 Dec

Dorothy Davis and Kerry Whelan went missing in the late 1990s. Mark Tedeschi KC talks about the case in his book Missing, Presumed Dead. He untangles the complex case of the murders. The perpetrator, Bruce Burrell, cruelly refused to reveal where he disposed of their remains.

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: Mark Tedeschi KC

Literature

READING AND DISCUSSING SHAKESPEARE (max 20)

First and Third Tuesdays from 7 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

Upstairs Lecture Room

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: Robert Englund

Music Appreciation

APPRECIATION OF CLASSICAL MUSIC (max 50)

Second Wednesday of the month from 8 Jul 10:00 to 12:30

Upstairs Lecture Room

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

Discussion Group

OPEN MINDS DISCUSSION GROUP A (max 15)

Second and Fourth Wednesdays from 8 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Upstairs Activity Room

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

Games

BRAIN GAMES (max 24)

Second and Fourth Fridays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Upstairs Activity Room

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

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

History Ancient

OVERVIEW OF ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL HISTORY (max 50)

First and Third Tuesday from 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Upstairs Lecture Room. (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

Poetry

PLEASURE OF POETRY (max 12)

First and Third Tuesday of the month from 21 Jul 13:00 to 14:30

Upstairs Activity room. (Not in school holidays).

This course is for the enjoyment of our wonderful literary heritage in the English language. We will share, read, listen to and discuss our favourite poems from a variety of writers and genre.

Leader: Jan Boldeman

Bookings: Judith Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

Language Italian

ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE (max 15)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Upstairs Activity Room

(Not in school holidays)

This course relies on a high beginner’s level of Italian as we explore Italian culture through conversation, reading, songs, poems, history, recipes, occasional film discussions (pre-viewed at home) and some relevant grammar. Please contact Judy Bassford 9527 2931 to discuss the course and your level of Italian.

Leader: Aurelia Pompili

Bookings: Judy Bassford judybassford7@gmail.com 0413 847 710

Cinema

WHAT MAKES GREAT MOVIES GREAT (max 40)

Fourth Thursday of the month from 23 Jul

13:00 to 15:00

Upstairs Lecture Room

Short talk about the characteristics of film selected, that go towards making it great viewing. Screening of film without interruption, followed by general discussion of film by members.

Leader and Bookings: Anita Spinks anitaspinks@live.com.au 0423 532 582

Art Appreciation

ART HISTORY (max 40)

Second and Fourth Tuesdays from 28 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Upstairs Lecture Room. (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

Discussion Group Podcasting NOT A BOOK CLUB (max 15)

Fourth Tuesday of the month from 28 Jul 13:00 to 15:00

Upstairs Activity Room

Not a Book Club uses podcasts, decided upon by the group, as stimulus for each conversation. We try to steer clear of political discussions and attempt to discuss more ethical and philosophical topics without getting too high brow.

Leader and Bookings: Bradley Burridge burridge07@gmail.com 0419 601 205

GYMEA COMMUNITY CENTRE

39 Gymea Bay Rd

Dance

MIDDLE EASTERN DANCING (max 30)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 13:00 to 14:00

(Not in public 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

Art

DISCOVERING ART (max 30)

First and Third Tuesday from 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

(Not in school holidays)

This class will study and discuss a range of art-related topics, including artists, art movements, architecture, photography, sculpture and much more.

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

Drawing

DRAWING WITH COLOUR (max 17)

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 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: Kathryn Creswick kathywithakay@hotmail.com 0412 199 058

GYMEA TRADIES

57 Manchester Rd

Archaeology

ASPECTS OF ARCHAEOLOGY (max 9)

First and Third Wednesday of the month from 1 Jul 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)

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 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 classes at Gymea Tradies and fun OUTDOOR practical days. Come sketching to really observe & record our beautiful shire and occasionally join other urban sketch groups elsewhere. Beginners and experienced, all welcome.

Leader: Peggy Annabel 0402354968

Bookings: Anne O’Donnell anneodonn@gmail.com

0408 203 205

Language Italian

CONVERSATIONAL ITALIAN (max 25)

Every Wednesday from 29 Jul 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

MIRANDA COMMUNITY CENTRE

93 Karimbla Rd corner Kiora Road

History Australia

AUSTRALIAN HISTORY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 20)

First and Third Wednesday from 5 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

MORTDALE RSL

25 Macquarie Place

Close to train station. Limited parking.

MORTDALE TUESDAY TALKS IN ST GEORGETOPICS OF INTEREST (max 80)

Upstairs Lecture Room

Bookings: Judith Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

Legal

1. Brittany Higgins vs Bruce Lehrmann (max 80)

29 Sep

Learn about Brittany Higgins ‘allegations’ against Bruce Lehrmann, the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case, and the ongoing legal repercussions of what Justice Michael Lee described as an “omnishambles”. Spoiler alert: Everybody loses.

Enquiries: Cherie Clover cherie167@hotmail.com

Presenter: David Hirsch

OATLEY HOTEL

8-12 Oatley Ave

Discussion Group

DISCUSSION GROUP (max 20)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Our friendly group enjoys stimulating and serious discussion on current affairs and a variety of subjects. There is controversy, reminiscing and usually lots of laughter. Leader: Denis Paulin d.paulin@bigpond.com 0438 594 206

OATLEY: LIBRARY

26 Letitia St

Art Craft

OATLEY ART AND CRAFTERS (max 12)

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 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

OUT THERE (ENDEAVOUR)

Outdoors Eating Out

LUNCH A LOT WITH STYLE (max 25)

First Thursday of the month from 2 Jul 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 3 Jul

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

Start and finish times will vary.

Leaders Teresa and John Lamberton

Leader and Bookings: Teresa Lamberton teresalamberton@hotmail.com

Walking

SYDNEY STRIDERS (max 35)

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul

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. Start and finish times will vary.

Leader: Susan McCarthy

Bookings: Connie Smith conniesmithu3a@gmail.com 0427 644 942

Walking

FRIDAY RAMBLERS (max 40)

Alternate Fridays from 10 Jul

Meet new people, discover parts of Sydney and surrounds you may never have been to. Walks 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. Start and finish times will vary.

Leader: Teresa Longbottom

Bookings: Margaret Camilleri margalexcamilleri@hotmail.com 0400 394 620

Walking

ENDEAVOUR CAMPUS WALKERS (max 30)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul

(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. Start and finish times will vary.

Leader: Christine Horrocks

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

Outdoors Eating Out

FLAVOUR OF DECEMBER (max 20)

One Friday 11 Dec 12:00 to 14:00

This semester our arrangements have changed. We will be holding one Flavour lunch -Flavour of December. We will be dining at Little Parrot, Cronulla with a 2 course set menu ($65, food only). Be sure to sign up at the beginning of the semester to secure your place.

Leader: Cherie Clover

Bookings: Carol Cook cook44271@gmail.com

PRIVATE HOMES (ENDEAVOUR)

Creative Writing

CREATIVE WRITING (Sylvania) (max 10)

Third Tuesday of the month from 21 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

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

Enquiries: Patricia Skinner 9547 0406

Leaders: Cathy Brett and Jennifer Jones

Bookings: Pat Skinner donleyton10@gmail.com 9547 0406

History Australia

AUSTRALIA OUR LAND (Gymea) (max 7)

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 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.

Leader: Angela Balding

Bookings: Trevor Campbell 9525 6970 Enquiries Nilva Martini nilvalsim@yahoo.com.au

SANS SOUCI LIBRARY

104 Russell Ave

Art Appreciation

EXPLORING ART (max 15)

1st Friday of the month from 3 Jul 10:30 to 12:00 Not in School Holidays

The group will explore various aspects of art - paintings, artists, art movements, sculpture, photography, architecture and ceramics.

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

Book Group

EXPLORING AND RELAXING WITH BOOKS (max 15)

Fourth Friday of the month from 24 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

An informal book discussion group, encouraging an exchange of ideas and opinions about the stories and images authors create. Members encouraged to recommend a book that they have enjoyed. A monthly discussion of books provides opportunity for varied reading experiences from a variety of genres.

Leader and Bookings: Jo Butler butlerman@optusnet.com.au 0407 279 468

SOUTH HURSTVILLE RSL

72 Connells Point Rd

Book Group

AWARD-WINNING BOOKS (max 11)

First Wednesday of the month from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

Friendly group meeting, to discuss award-winning novels, or novels any one of the group thinks should have won an award! Followed by lunch (optional).

Leader: Pat Copping

Bookings: Kay Hargreaves kay@hargreaves.net.au 0403 133 000

SUTHERLAND CLUB ON EAST (COFFEE SHOP)

7 East Pde

Book Group

CRIME WRITERS BOOK CLUB (max 14)

First and Third Tuesdays. from 21 Jul 10:15 to 12:00 (Not in school holidays)

Do you love reading crime fiction? We are a friendly and social group who enjoy reading crime books. A list of books is compiled by the Leader yearly in consultation with members and this list will be provided on joining.

Leader: Carol Dawson

Bookings: Kay Knight kay.knight223@gmail.com

SUTHERLAND CROQUET CLUB

Rawson St

Croquet

CROQUET AT SUTHERLAND **NEW** (max 8)

Every Monday from 17 Aug 09:00 to 11:00

Croquet is a game which combines subtle competition with courteous participation, aimed at fun and enjoyment. A moderately paced activity that requires coordination and tactical thinking, it provides light physical exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities for social interaction. Tuition is provided with time spent on the lawn learning techniques and strategies for this 6 week course.

Leader: Andrew Kelly Bookings and Enquiries: Judith Breen breenjju3a@gmail.com

SUTHERLAND SHIRE LIBRARY

Belmont St

Committee Room.

Book Group

BOOK BANTER (max 14)

First Friday of the month from 3 Jul 14:00 to 15:00

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

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

GREATER WEST

Regional President: Michele Sacco president_greaterwest@sydneyu3a.org (preferred) 0411347995

Regional Course Coordinator: TBC

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

BLACKTOWN LIBRARY

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 7 Jul 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

BLACKTOWN: WESTPOINT SHOPPING CENTRE

Alpha St, up ramp wheelchair access, train station nearby, bus stop nearby

Games

FUN AND GAMES (max 20)

Every Friday from 3 Jul 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: Kerrie Booth boothkerrie@gmail.com 0431 953 419

CASTLE HILL WARRINA VILLAGE (ANGLICARE RETIREMENT)

5A Broughton Ave Langshaw Circuit. Parking nearby

Discussion Group Current Affairs

ISSUES AND IDEAS (max 25)

Alternate Tuesdays from 7 Jul 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. All bookings via the Booking Secretary. Leader and Bookings: Jim Gray jcgray011@gmail.com

Bookings: John Alban Brockman alban.kingslangley@gmail.com 0400 422 962

EMAIL COURSES (GREATER WESTERN)

Creative Writing

WRITING CREATIVELY (via email) (max 10)

Second and Fourth Monday from 1 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Learn the skills of transforming experiences into prose and poetry in a friendly, supportive group. Please contact leader to book.

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

HOLROYD DISTRICT CROQUET CLUB

Cnr. Burnett & Lansdowne Streets Parking onsite, bus stop nearby

CROQUET FOR BEGINNERS (max 12)

Every Wednesday from 2 Sep 13:00 to 15:00

4 sessions

Come try croquet, a “nasty game played by nice people”. A deceiving, gentle paced game that favours hand/eye ball skills and game strategy. Tuition provided with time spent on the lawn aimed at fun and enjoyment. All equipment supplied. BYO hat, walking shoes and water.

Leader: Fiona Gale

Bookings: Dallas Corcoran dallaslouise50@gmail.com 0402 639 380

MARAYONG: COMMUNITY CENTRE

62 Railway Rd.

Tai Chi

TAI CHI/QIGONG (max 20)

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 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.

Tai Chi 9:30 to 10:30 Tai Chi Fan 10:30 to 11:00.

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

OUT THERE (GREATER WESTERN)

Theatre

CURTAIN CALL MATINEE CLUB

Dates based on timing of drama productions from 1 Jul 13:00 to 23:00

This energetic group attends matinees (preferably weekends) at theatres across Sydney, on days decided by the group members. We use WhatsApp to discuss which plays most members wish to see. We either meet up for a light luncheon before the play or drinks and a chat after the play. It’s a lively group that enjoys diverse drama, including musicals.

Leader and Bookings: Kate Austin kja59rn@gmail.com 0413 371 874

Outdoor Outings

WALKING AROUND GREATER SYDNEY (WAGS) (max 40)

Second Friday from 10 Jul 10:00 to 13:00

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

Outdoors Walking

SYDNEY u3a WESTERN WALKERS (max 40)

Fourth Friday from 24 Jul 10:00 to 13:00

From easy to hard grade bush tracks and street walks around Sydney. 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

Movies

MOVIE CLUB (max 25)

First Tuesday from 4 Aug 10:30 to 14:00

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

PARRAMATTA PHIVE

5 Parramatta Square

Train and bus interchange nearby, wheelchair access

Calligraphy

CALLIGRAPHY (max 18)

Second and Fourth Thursday from 1 Jul 13:00 to 15:00

Learn beautiful writing and discover your inner artist. No experience necessary. If you can write, you can do calligraphy. We alternate with Zoom - first session will be face-to-face.

All bookings via the Booking Secretary.

Leader: Georgie Tuck

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

Music Opera

MAGIC MOMENTS IN CLASSICAL MUSIC (max 15)

First and Third Wednesday from 1 Jul 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 0416 019 512

History

FRIDAY HISTORY WITH COLIN SMITH

First and Third Friday from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

The French Revolution (1789 - 1799) was a pivotal period of social and political upheaval in France that led to the end of the monarchy, the rise of republicanism and significant changes in the social structure. It brought in revolutionary ideas not only in France but across Europe.

Presenter: Colin Smith

Bookings: Stephen Bensley steveben@aapt.net.au 0401 454 364

Genealogy

GROWING YOUR FAMILY TREE (max 12)

First and Third Tuesday from 7 Jul 12:00 to 14:00

We are a support group for those interested in family history and genealogy, where members share ideas, experiences, and assistance in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Are you interested in family history? Would you like to find out more about your ancestors? Have you hit a brick wall and need some help?

Leader and Bookings: Geoff Coy gjcoy@optusnet.com.au 0418 251 808

TUESDAYS AT PHIVE (max 30)

Second and Fourth Tuesday from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

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

Please bring your own cup for morning tea and $2 to cover morning tea and a small gift for the presenter.

Ireland History

1. The Troubles - Northern Ireland (max 30)

14 Jul

An illustrated history of the 30 years of community conflicts in Northern Ireland, its origins, its impact and its aftermath.

Presenter: Chris Schofield

Technology

2. Iconic Australian Inventions of Our Time - Part 2 (max 30)

28 Jul

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

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Health

3. Loneliness and Solitude (max 30)

11 Aug

Loneliness is experienced by maybe 40 percent our people. We will discuss this as an acute social and personal problem.

Presenter: Frank Wilson

Technology

4. Technology Made Simple (max 30)

25 Aug

Tech Made Simple helps Australians confidently use technology through patient, practical support, simplifying devices, solving problems and empowering independence in a digital world.

Presenter: Colin McCabe

Music

5. Behind the Lyrics. Can Music Change the World? Part 1 (max 30)

8 Sep

Can music change the world? This two part presentation looks at examples which influenced or was part of social, political and historical change across a wide range of topics and issues.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Legal

6. Julian Assange - Hero or Villain (max 30)

22 Sep

Admire him or loathe him, Julian Assange compels us to confront journalism, free speech and digital power such as Wikileaks’ disclosures, secrecy, exile and prosecutions challenges to governments and public trust.

Presenter: David Hirsh

Music

7. Behind the Lyrics. Can Music Change the World? Part 2 (max 30)

13 Oct

Can music change the world? This is the second part of the presentation that looks at examples of music, which influenced or was part of social, political and historical change across a wide range of topics and issues.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Technology History

8. Political Journalism and South East Asian History (max 30)

27 Oct

Meandering to Manila and Reinventing Marcos through a correspondent’s journey and a dictator’s reinvention, Keith Dalton explores journalism’s risks, political mythmaking and how the truth is shaped, contested and manipulated across Southern Asia.

Presenter: Keith Dalton

History

9. History of Rhyme and Reason (max 30)

10 Nov

This talk will delve into the lives of some charactersRichard Whittington, Thomas Horner, Alexander Leslie and others. How do we date rhymes? Why do some reigns have no rhymes?

Presenter: Susan Ackroyd

Science

10. Top Medical Inventions of Our Time and Recent Breakthroughs (max 30)

24 Nov

There is little doubt that identifying diseases and their treatment is as old as humanity itself. We discuss these treatment advances old and new.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanyake

Book Group

THRILLERS AND MYSTERIES (max 11)

Fourth Thursday from 23 Jul 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 27 Jul 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

SEVEN HILLS COMMUNITY CENTRE

5 Artillery Cres

Train and bus nearby, wheelchair access

Dance

RHYTHM OF THE DANCE, LINE DANCING (max 40)

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 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: Sally Chan salchan1828@gmail.com 0412 355 988

SEVEN HILLS: RSL CLUB

108 Best Rd

Games Canasta Mah Jong MONDAY CANASTA, SAMBA AND MAH JONG (Western Style) (max 35)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 13:00 to 16:00

New venue: Seven Hills RSL. 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

Eating Out

LUNCH AROUND THE GLOBE (max 20)

First Friday from 3 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

We will meet at a chosen restaurant, and eat foods from around the globe. Our aim will be a $20 to $40 budget. Participants will be asked to select and organise the restaurant every now and then.

Leader and Bookings: Michele Sacco president_greaterwest@sydneyu3a.org 0411 347 995

Philosophy

THE GREATER WESTERN PHILOSOPHERS **NEW** (max 20)

Alternate Mondays from 20 Jul 12:30 to 14:30 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.

Each week there will be a topic involving some pre-reading. Leader and Bookings: Michele Sacco president_greaterwest@sydneyu3a.org 0411 347 995

WINSTON HILLS: ILLABUNDA VILLAGE COMMUNITY CENTRE

16 Buckleys Rd

Discussion Group A LIVELY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 15)

Alternate Mondays from 13 Jul 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.

Leader: Kerry Houghton kerry.houghton1@gmail.com 0414 907 329

Bookings: Susan Nielson suenielson@hotmail.com

HARBOURSIDE NORTH

Regional President: Michael Suckling michaelsuckling@outlook.com

Regional Course Coordinator: Rosemarie Einstein re.u3a@starmer.net.au

Enquiries only 0412 043 377

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

CASTLE COVE: THE RESIDENCES

8b Deepwater Rd off Eastern Valley Way Parking nearby 9417 2967 barbboston2013@gmail.com

TUESDAYS AT CASTLE COVE (max 25)

Alternate Tuesdays from 14 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

Bookings: Barbara Boston barbboston2013@gmail.com

Music

1. The Beatles- behind the lyrics (Part 1) (max 25) 14 Jul

Enjoy some fabulous music and discover the unexpected stories behind the songs.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

Music

2. The Beatles- behind the lyrics Part 2 (max 25) 28 Jul

Enjoy more fabulous music and discover the unexpected stories behind the songs.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

History Australia

3. The Eureka Stockade (max 25) 11 Aug

In Colonial Victoria, miners had no rights and no votes. In 1854 they rebelled against this repressive regime. The ensuing battle at the Eureka Stockade at Ballarat is now considered to be the birthplace of Australian democracy.

Presenter: David Wilson

Science Famous People

4. Alfred Russell Wallace – the other Charles Darwin (max 25) 25 Aug

Charles Darwin gets all the attention and recognition, but Alfred Russell Wallace may well be more deserving. Who was he and what did he achieve? An examination of one of the 19th Century’s most important, but perhaps underrated, natural scientists.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

Science

5. From soul to synapse (max 25)

8 Sep

Exploring the origin, history and evolution of concepts such as the soul, the mind, the self and free will, and clarifying what modern neuroscience has to say about these ideas.

Presenter: Kevin Murray

Medical Matters Legal

6. The Sackler story (max 25)

22 Sep

How Valium, OxyContin, philanthropy, art galleries, museums, laboratories, lies, addiction, death, court cases and millions of dollars make up the story of the Sackler family.

Presenter: Dr Rosemarie Einstein

Music Theatre

7. Let’s put on a show: Behind the scenes of musicals (max 25)

6 Oct

Past President of the Willoughby Theatre Company for 12 years, actor for many decades and still performing, Tom will tell us how musicals get organised.

Presenter: Tom Sweeney

Broadcasting

8. Celebrating the ABC Friends 50th Anniversary (max 25)

20 Oct

Friends of the ABC began in 1976 with a conversation between Faith Bandler and three friends. Today it is a nationwide movement of over 70,000 friends and supporters.

Presenter: Janine Kitson

History Food

9. Dining al fresco: The pleasurable and the macabre (max 25)

3 Nov

Through the visual and literary arts, the history of dining al fresco unfolds. Throughout history, sharing food and drink has been regarded as a means of achieving some level of communion with our fellow companions.

Presenter: Dianna Noyce

Health

10. The science and secrets of healthy ageing (max 25)

17 Nov

After extensive research into the biology of ageing, Dr Judy will explain why we must age to live and will outline some of the lifestyle and dietary habits we can all adopt to reduce the negative effects of ageing.

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Art

11. The Michelangelo Code (max 25)

1 Dec

The ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome, conceals a meaning which has remained hidden for 500 years. After 20 years of study Waldemar Januszczak finally cracks the pictorial code that conceals its startling meaning.

Presenter: DVD (Barbara Boston)

CHATSWOOD CROQUET CLUB

699A Pacific Hwy

Croquet

INTRODUCTION TO CROQUET (max 16)

Thursdays from 5 Nov 10:00 to 12:00

Croquet offers gentle physical exercise, mental stimulation and social contact. Chatswood Croquet Club will provide all equipment and tuition. Wear flat shoes, sun cream and a hat. Further information from Rosemary (roehoward@ icloud.com). Participants who able to commit to all 3 sessions will be given priority for this course.

Bookings: Rosemarie Einstein re.u3a@starmer.net.au 0412 043 377

CHATSWOOD: DOUGHERTY COMMUNITY CENTRE

7 Victor St

Parking nearby, short walk from Chatswood station, wheelchair access

Art Craft

EXPLORE CREATIVITY THROUGH ARTS AND CRAFTS (max 13)

Alternate Wednesdays from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

Have a fun time finding your creative side using a wide range of arts and crafts activities. Some materials provided, for ideas such as card making, decoupage, beading, painting, or bring your own. Suggestions welcome.

Leader and bookings: Gillian Dumble gilldumble@hotmail.com 0414 951 895

Discussion Group

DISCUSSION GROUP 1

Alternate Thursdays from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 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. Leader and bookings: Maxine Baudish maxine.baudish@gmail.com 0419 411 785

TUESDAYS AT CHATSWOOD (max 35) Tuesdays from 7 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

History Science

1. Perfume: Scents and senses (Part 1) (max 35) 7 Jul

The history of perfume dates back thousands of years. All today’s Perfumers (‘noses’) have a chemical background and an artistic flair. The Guerlain family dynasty has a history of family member “noses” for over 100 years.

Presenter: Viviane Tolliday

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

History

2. The story of Russia (Part 1) (max 35)

14 Jul

Ivan the Terrible, Catherine the Great, the Romanovs. A brief look at Russian history might provide a better understanding of Putin’s Russia.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

History Russian

3. The story of Russia (Part 2) (max 35)

21 Jul

Ivan the Terrible, Catherine the Great, the Romanovs. A brief look at Russian history might provide a better understanding of Putin’s Russia.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

History Science

4. Perfume: Scents and senses (Part 2) (max 35)

28 Jul

The history of perfume dates back thousands of years. All today’s Perfumers (‘noses’) have a chemical background and an artistic flair. The Guerlain family dynasty has a history of family member “noses” for over 100 years.

Presenter: Viviane Tolliday

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

History

5. Shock and Awe: In the footsteps of Alexander the Great (max 35)

4 Aug

We follow the dashing conquests of Alexander from the shores of the Aegean sea, across the great Iranian plateau and the rugged Hindu Kush, before he turned back on reaching India.

Presenter: John Tidmarsh

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Human Body

6. The human brain (Part 1) (max 35)

11 Aug

Inside your head is a 3-pound organ called the brain, the working of which is shrouded in mystery. Let’s learn about this in easy-to-understand language.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

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

Human Body

7. The human brain (Part 2) (max 35)

18 Aug

More about this complex object we hold inside our heads and the way it performs incredible tasks which have baffled scientists.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

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

History

8. Re-inventing Marcos: from Dictator to hero (max 35)

8 Sep

Keith Dalton, foreign correspondent, lived and reported from the Philippines for more than ten years. The country was under the dictatorship of one of the 20th Century’s most corrupt and brutal leaders, President Ferdinand Marcos.

Presenter: Keith Dalton

Bookings: Ursula Schapp ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Science Health

9. Hearing and brain health: The science of staying sharp (max 35)

22 Sep

Explore the physical and mental impact associated with untreated hearing loss and how to overcome the common barriers to addressing it.

Presenter: Andrew Campbell

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Science Technology

10. Storing electricity (max 35)

6 Oct

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

Presenter: Robert Eales

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

History Famous People Science

11. Marie Curie (1887 - 1934) (max 35)

13 Oct

From humble beginnings in Poland to Pantheon in Paris with two Nobel Prizes in science, Marie Curie’s is an extraordinary journey of agony and ecstasy. Her discovery of radium led to cancer treatments and new branches of physics.

Presenter: Srinivas Karkenahalli

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

History

12. The Etruscans (max 35)

20 Oct

The history of the Etruscans, their rich culture and influence on the Romans.

Presenter: John Flint

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

Cinema

13. Grumpy old Matthau (max 35)

27 Oct

The life and film career of Walter Matthau, the rumpled, crumpled master of crotchety comedy, with accompanying illustrations, interviews and film clips

Presenter: Norma Hinchen

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

Technology

14. Artificial intelligence and Chat GPT (max 35) 10 Nov

AI recognises patterns in vast amounts of data to produce useful answers in seconds. The speed of progress has surprised even experts and raises important questions about safety, privacy and how we use this technology wisely.

Presenter: John Cameron

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

History Current Affairs

15. Australia - Fiji relations: Frenemies (max 35) 24 Nov

The complex political relationships between Fiji and Australia and the impact of the Chinese in the Pacific, including the latest happenings in Fiji.

Presenter: Andrew Drysdale

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

Music Recorder

INTERMEDIATE RECORDER GROUP

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

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 9 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

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

FRIDAYS AT CHATSWOOD (max 35)

Fridays from 10 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

History Australia

1. Tom Wills (max 35) 10 Jul

Tom Wills became the first captain and coach of the famous aboriginal cricket team which later toured England. He also started the game of Australian Rules football.

Presenter: Greg DeMoore

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Famous People Music

2. Beethoven: His life and music (Part 1) (max 35) 17 Jul

Approaching the 200th anniversary of Beethoven’s death, it is time to celebrate the debt we owe to an extraordinary mind. Explore Beethoven’s early life and his music.

Presenter: John Brennan

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

Famous People Music

3. Beethoven: His life and music (Part 2) (max 35) 24 Jul

Beethoven transformed music, redefining the symphony, chamber music, and the concerto. Hear how he transcended his deafness and turned inward.

Presenter: John Brennan

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

Health Psychology

4. “Finding Sanity” (max 35) 31 Jul

The first biography of the ground breaking Australian doctor, John Cade, who discovered the first pharmacological treatment for mental illness.

Presenter: Greg DeMoore

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

History Current Affairs

5. The rise and fall of the Ottoman Empire (max 35) 7 Aug

Rising from a small family principality, the great Ottoman Empire replaced the Roman Empire triggering the European Age of Discovery and colonisation.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

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

History USA

6. Eisenhower (Part 1): Normandy to the White House (max 35) 14 Aug

After leading Allied troops in the liberation of Europe, Eisenhower ‘retired’ to academia but was drafted into the White House. Confronted with an interminable Korean War and Senator Joe McCarthy running amuck at home.

Presenter: Harry Melkonian

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

History USA

7. Eisenhower (Part 2): Normandy to the White House (max 35)

21 Aug

After leading Allied troops in the liberation of Europe, Eisenhower ‘retired’ to academia but was drafted into the White House. Confronted with an interminable Korean War and Senator Joe McCarthy running amuck at home, it was one crisis after another.

Presenter: Harry Melkonian

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

Science

8. Einstein - The scientist and the writer (max 35)

28 Aug

Einstein wrote hundreds of papers, books and articles not only on physics but also on political and social issues and even on religion and philosophy. We explore some of his thoughts on a variety of topics.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

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

History

9. The life and folly of Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson (max 35)

18 Sep

Author Oliver Greeves draws on his historical fiction novels ‘Nelson’s Folly’ and ‘Nelson’s Lost Son’ to offer fresh insights into the Napoleonic era behind one of the most mythologised figures, Lord Admiral Horatio Nelson.

Presenter: Oliver Greeves

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Australia History

10. “Yellow shadows on a white land” (max 35)

2 Oct

In the mining camps of the gold rush, white women (and their children) seen to partner with Chinese men were subject to undisguised disdain from mainstream society. This did not accord with the idea of a White Australia.

Presenter: Gordon Mar

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

Current Affairs

11. In defence of our humanity in a troubled world (max 35)

9 Oct

Former UN ambassador to Indonesia and surrounding areas found that listening and responding in peoples’ terms was essential to foster community development. Stephen talks of his role after natural disasters (Aceh Tsunami) and terrorist threats in remote areas.

Presenter: Stephen Hill

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

History

12. The Italian immigrant story reimagined (max 35)

16 Oct

The experience of Italian migrants to Australia, including WWI and WWII: Fascism, Crete, the Gustav line, internment as ‘aliens’ and working in north Queensland cane fields.

Presenter: Angelina Mastrippolito

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

Science Environment

13. Water – Essential for life but many unknowns (max 35)

23 Oct

David has been an academic, consultant, senior advisor and organisation leader with many aspects of water in many parts of the world. Learn some fascinating things about water, including where it comes from and why we need to use it wisely.

Presenter: David Garman

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Health Human Body

14. How does gut health affect the immune system? (max 35)

6 Nov

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

Presenter: Gayle Nelson

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Medical Matters Legal

15. The Sackler story (max 35)

27 Nov

How Valium, Oxy-Contin, philanthropy, art galleries, museums, laboratories, lies, addiction, death, court cases and millions of dollars make up the story of the Sackler family.

Presenter: Dr Rosemarie Einstein

Bookings: Ursula Schappi ursul.sch@gmail.com 0407 995 578

Music Recorder

ADVANCED RECORDER

Alternate Mondays from 13 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

Treble, tenor, bass and descant players welcome. Basic sight reading is essential. The emphasis is on playing musically.

Leader: Bernard Williams bernie43@tpg.com.au 0422 895 531

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

GREENWICH: THE BAYTREE RETIREMENT RESORT

6 Ulonga Avenue Off Innes Rd. Wheelchair access 0423 397 343 mariannethiering@gmail.com

TUESDAYS AT GREENWICH (max 40)

Alternate Tuesdays from 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Bookings: Dianna Clifford encliffen2389@proton.me 0494 028 817

History Australia

1. Gore Hill Memorial Cemetery (max 40) 21 Jul

Behind the Pacific Highway at St Leonards lies a hidden area of national heritage, the resting place of about 14,000 people, many noteworthy in their time

Presenter: John Flint

Music Famous People

2. Berlioz and Saint-Saëns, two remarkable French composers (max 40)

4 Aug

Each composer admired the other’s works, but many other composers of the day did not. Was it jealousy? However, their reputations soared after their deaths.

Presenter: Nora Hinchen

3. An enduring Nexus: Planet Earth, its life and their shared ecology (max 40)

18 Aug

An examination of the symbiotic and interdependent community of our planet and its living kingdoms.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

History

4. Italy – from Roman Kingdom to modern republic (Part 1) (max 40)

1 Sep

Ancient Rome on the Italian Peninsula was founded on the River Tiber in 753 BC. It evolved into a great empire before succumbing to the invading Germanic tribes.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

History

5. Italy – from Roman Kingdom to modern republic (Part 2) (max 40)

15 Sep

The Italian Peninsula’s regions came under different competing European political powers including the Papal States and the Arabs. Various Italian City States facilitated the European Renaissance, leaving a lasting cultural legacy.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

History

6. Italy – from Roman kingdom to modern republic (Part 3) (max 40)

29 Sep

The rivalries between France, Spain and Austria dictated the Italian Peninsula’s fate until its reunification in 1861. It survived Mussolini’s fascism and civil war, before becoming a Republic in 1946.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

Current Affairs Legal

7. The Lehrmann/Higgins omnishambles (max 40)

13 Oct

Learn about Brittany Higgins’ allegations against Bruce Lehrmann, the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case, and the ongoing legal repercussions of what Justice Michael Lee described as an “omnishambles”. Spoiler alert: Everybody loses.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Current Affairs Famous People

8. Julian Assange – Hero or Villain? (max 40)

27 Oct

Julian Assange has forced us to confront difficult issues in journalism, free speech, and the power of the internet. Explore the background to WikiLeaks, the disclosure of information that embarrassed governments, years of hiding and ultimate arrest and conviction.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Current Affairs

9. The Baltic States (Part 1) (max 40)

10 Nov

The nine countries around the Baltic Sea are poorly understood but are key to understanding how important they might be in Europe’s future.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Current Affairs

10. The Baltic States (Part 2) (max 40)

24 Nov

The nine countries around the Baltic Sea are poorly understood but are key to understanding how important they might be in Europe’s future.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Food History

11. Al fresco dining in the Victorian Era (max 40)

8 Dec

The picnic, a new way of sharing food, became acceptable for Britain’s burgeoning middle-class early in the 19th century. They travelled far and wide to picnic, even to a war zone. Caution: images of nudity in the presentation.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

HUNTERS HILL: C A FAIRLAND HALL

14 Church St

Parking nearby 0447 194 510 judyaharris222@bigpond.com

MONDAYS AT HUNTERS HILL (max 55)

Every Monday from 13 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

Bookings: Judy Harris judyaharris222@gmail.com 0447 194 510

Current Affairs Legal

1. The Lehmann/Higgins Omnishambles (max 55) 13 Jul

Learn about her allegations against Bruce Lehmann, the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case and the ongoing legal repercussions, of what Justice Lee described as an omnishambles. Spoiler alert: Everybody loses

Presenter: David Hirsch

Writing

2. Oral History (max 55)

20 Jul

Winsome Baker is going to write an oral history of our members’ lives. She needs you to provide memories of their childhood to be included in a future presentation.

Presenter: Winsome Baker

Current Affairs Legal

3. Part 1: Race to the South Pole Part 2: Changi and crook cooks (max 55)

27 Jul

Part 1: The role of food in the race to the South Pole, with the unconventional table of Douglas Mawson. Part 2: Of rice and men: The culinary life of prisoners in Changi.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

History USA

4. The 23rd USA President, Dwight D Eisenhower (Part 1) (max 55)

3 Aug

The only President who did not have any wars in his Presidency. Hear about Korea, Suez Canal, desegregation and his many achievements.

Presenter: Dr Harry Melkonian (US Studies Centre, Macquarie University)

History USA

5. President Dwight D Eisenhower (Part 2) (max 55)

10 Aug

The only President who did not have any wars in his Presidency. Hear about Korea, Suez Canal, desegregation and his many achievements.

Presenter: Dr Harry Melkonian (US Studies Centre, Macquarie University)

Investment Money

6. The history of shares and ETFs (Part 1) (max 55)

17 Aug

Share investment and properties, positive and negatives. Portfolio construction. Why it is important? No personal financial advice.

Presenter: Rodney Walker

Investment Money

7. The history of shares and ETFs (Part 2) (max 55)

24 Aug

Share investment and properties, positive and negatives. Portfolio construction. Why it is important? No personal financial advice.

Presenter: Rodney Walker

Legal

8. Current issues in the NSW criminal justice system (max 55)

31 Aug

Updates on crime, custody, recent developments in protest restrictions, hate crimes and more.

Presenter: Nick Cowdery AC KC

Current Affairs History

9. The making of Russia (Part 1) (max 55)

7 Sep

Can history help explain the politics and aggression of Putin’s Russia?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Current Affairs History

10. The making of Russia (Part 2) (max 55)

14 Sep

Can history help explain the politics and aggression of Putin’s Russia?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Current Affairs History

11. The making of Russia (Part 3) (max 55)

21 Sep

Can history help explain the politics and aggression of Putin’s Russia?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Science

12. The complete cockroach (max 55)

28 Sep

An essay on the humble cockroach, the most despised creature on earth, including their biology, habitat and control, plus diseases they might carry.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Science Environment

13. Honey bees: What future in Australia? (max 55)

5 Oct

Origins, contributions, reproduction, life in Australia, threats and future survival of bees and commercial beekeeping.

Presenter: Michael Clarke

Medical Matters Technology

14. “Dr Claude will see you now” (max 55)

12 Oct

Recent innovations in technology connectivity and how AI is changing all facets of life including health care. See what is possible.

Presenter: Dr Charbel Badr

Music Famous People

15. The life of Beethoven (Part 1) (max 55)

19 Oct

Beethoven transformed music, redefining the symphony chamber music and concertos. His early life and his arrival in Vienna before transcending into deafness and turning inward, toward fragmentation, introspection and what scholars often call his ‘late style’.

Presenter: Prof John Brennan

Music Famous People

16. The life of Beethoven (Part 2) (max 55)

26 Oct

Beethoven transformed music, redefining the symphony chamber music and concertos. His early life and his arrival in Vienna before transcending into deafness and turning inward, toward fragmentation, introspection and what scholars often call his ‘late style’.

Presenter: Prof John Brennan

History Australia

17. The Australian Navy at Gallipoli 1914 – 1918 (max 55)

2 Nov

Australian forces were first in and last out at Gallipoli. Hear about the role of our RAN ships under the command of the RN. (Judy Harris’ grandfather, Frederick Mann, was involved in those landings at Gallipoli.)

Presenter: Noel Phelan, Maritime Museum

Danger

18. Danger is my business (max 55)

9 Nov

Garry Raymond, a Salvation Army soldier, joined St Johns Ambulance aged 9. He had a 34 year career in NSW Police and Ambulance. In 2017 he became a welfare officer in Retired and Former Police Association of NSW.

Presenter: Garry Raymond OAM

History

19. The history of Balmain (max 55)

16 Nov

Did you know that 550 acres of Balmain were sold for ten shillings to someone had never seen the land? Our speaker knows the background history.

Presenter: Ray Stevens

Famous People

20. The life and times of Jeannie Little OAM (max 55)

23 Nov

Do you remember her from the Mike Walsh show? She was the wonderful comedienne. Katie, her daughter, will tell us about her wonderful life.

Presenter: Katie Little

Australia Inventions

21. Australian inventions (max 55)

30 Nov

This talk will highlight a number of Australian inventions 1850 – 2025

Presenter: Martin Kinsky

Music History

22. u3a Christmas party (max 55)

7 Dec

The history of some well-known Christmas Carols. Come along and join us in song and learn about the story behind your favourite words.

Presenters: Judy Harris and Anne Richardson

HYEGROVE WILLOUGHBY

20A Crabbes Ave

Parking on site, wheelchair access everklein1@outlook.com

FRIDAYS AT WILLOUGHBY (max 50)

Second and fourth Friday of the month from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Bookings: Katrina Gmach katgmach@gmail.com 0414 261 344

History Sociology

1. Out of Africa and around the globe (max 50)

3 Jul

Following evolution of modern humans in Africa, mankind ventured out and eventually settled everywhere on this planet. Human organisations have emerged from primitive hunting groups through to modern nations.

Presenter: Himanshu Jhala

Evolution Famous People Science

2. Charles Darwin and “On the Origin of Species” (max 50)

17 Jul

It was Charles Darwin’s observation while on the five year voyage of HMS Beagle that allowed him to come up with one of the most significant breakthroughs in scientific history.

Presenter: Ian Burnet

Evolution Human Body

3. How the mind changed (Part 1) (max 50)

7 Aug

We explore how our brain’s evolution turned us into Homo Sapiens and beyond.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Sociology Science

4. An enduring nexus: Planet Earth, its life and their shared ecology (max 50)

21 Aug

A holistic view of the world grounded in science but also exploring deeper questions: Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going? An examination of the symbiotic web linking our planet to its living kingdoms.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

History Sociology

5. How the mind changed (Part 2) (max 50)

4 Sep

We explore how our brain’s evolution turned us into Homo Sapiens and beyond.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Medical Matters Legal

6. The Sackler story (max 50)

18 Sep

How Valium and OxyContin profits financed art galleries, museums, and laboratories. Lies, addictions, deaths, court cases and billions of dollars make up the history of the Sackler Family.

Presenter: Dr Rosemarie Einstein

History Sociology

7. Music can change the world (Part 1) (max 50)

2 Oct

Can music change the world? Examples of music which influenced or was part of social, political and historical change across a wide range of topics and issues.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

History Sociology

8. Music can change the world (Part 2) (max 50)

16 Oct

Can music change the world? Examples of music which influenced or was part of social, political and historical change across a wide range of topics and issues.

Presenter: Graham Spindler

History Education

9. What is happening to and at our universities? (max 50)

6 Nov

Most of us who went to university soon after finishing school attended very different institutions from those that exist today. Government funding, student numbers and advances in technology are some of the main drivers of the changes.

Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein

Health

10. How does gut health affect the immune system? (max 50)

20 Nov

70-80% of your immune system lives in your gut. When gut health is disturbed, immune problems can result. Learn how to increase good gut bacteria to be rewarded with an improved immune response.

Presenter: Gayle Nelson

LANE COVE LIBRARY

Library Walk, 139A Longueville Rd

Book Group

BOOK GROUP

Every fourth Monday from 27 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

Training room 2

This group chooses 6 novels per semester to read (both classics and modern) and enjoys a lively discussion on those books. New members welcome.

Bookings: Vanessa Follett: vfollett@ozemail.com.au

Leader Lyndell Ford: fords@ozemail.com.au

MCMAHONS POINT COMMUNITY CENTRE

165 Blues Point Rd Wheelchair access 0449 823 066 ellabellamtgambier@gmail.com

Book Group

BOOK GROUP

Alternate Fridays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

This group chooses 10 novels per semester to read (both classics and modern), and enjoys a lively discussion on those books. New members welcome.

All bookings via booking secretary.

Leader and Bookings: Toni McLennan 9412 1585

Music

KEYBOARD FOR BEGINNERS (max 11)

Alternate Tuesdays from 9 Sep 10:30 to 12:30

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

Leader: Christina Roberts tinaroberts14@yahoo.com.au 0412 636 794

Bookings: Emanuela Carniato ellabellamtgambier@gmail.com 0449 823 066

MOSMAN ART GALLERY

Cnr Art Gallery Way & Myahgah Rd

Wheelchair access. Parking nearby 0404 254 009 annikatults@gmail.com

MONDAYS AT THE ART GALLERY

Every Monday from 6 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 No booking required.

Music Theatre

1. Let’s put on a show

6 Jul

Tom will present a behind the scenes description of how musicals are actually selected, cast, rehearsed and staged and how it is now big business not just a hobby.

Presenter: Tom Sweeney

History Britain

2. The story of Britain (Part 1)

13 Jul

We explore various trends in the long history of Britain from the Romans to Victoria’s Empire.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

History Britain

3. The story of Britain (Part 2)

20 Jul

We explore various trends in the long history of Britain from the Romans to Victoria’s Empire.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

History Britain

4. The story of Britain (Part 3)

27 Jul

We explore various trends in the long history of Britain from the Romans to Victoria’s Empire.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Art

5. Caravaggio

3 Aug

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

Presenter: Martin Wetherall

History China

6. When Britain bullied China 10 Aug

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

Presenter: Gordon Mar

History British Military

7. Admiral Lord Nelson – myth and reality 17 Aug

Horatio Nelson’s legendary battles changed history indisputably. But new evidence requires re-evaluation of his greatness. Was death at Trafalgar enough to wipe the slate clean?

Presenter: Oliver Greeves

Art

8. Lindsay family artists: Norman, Lionel and others 24 Aug

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

Presenter: Ann Sutherland

Science

9. Southern Auroras and Northern Lights

31 Aug

Hear about the science behind auroras, some of the associated myths and historical event and find out why there are lots of auroras in 2026.

Presenter: Vicki Moss

Investment Money

10. The share market for beginners (Part 1)

7 Sep

Learn how investing works, open an account, find reliable information and gain practical tools to start confidently. Educational only, not personal financial advice.

Presenter: Rodney Walker

Investment Money

11. The share market for beginners (Part 2) 14 Sep

Curious about the share market, but not sure where to start? This course is designed for absolute beginners of all ages. Whether you’re 17 or 70 Bring your curiosity and a willingness to learn – no prior experience required.

Presenter: Rodney Walker

Human Body

12. Human Brain (Part 1) 21 Sep

Inside your head is a 1.5 kg organ 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

13. Human Brain (Part 2)

28 Sep

More about this complex object we hold inside our heads and the way it performs incredible tasks, which have baffled scientists.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Public Holiday - no presentation

5 Oct

Science

14. Pattern formation in nature 12 Oct

How have natural processes produced dazzling variety of patterns we see around us, from zebra strips to sand ripples?

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Current Affairs Legal

15. The Lehrmann/Higgins Omnishambles 19 Oct

How much do you really know about the Brittanny Higgins/ Bruce Lehrmann case? Learn about Higgins’ allegations against Lehrmann, the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case, and the ongoing legal repercussions of what Justice Michael Lee described as “omnishambles”.

Spoiler alert: Everybody loses.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Current Affairs Legal

16. Understanding our democracy 26 Oct

Is ‘democracy’ all that it is cracked up to be? What are democratic institutions and ‘The Rule of Law’? Is democracy in Australia any different to that of the USA? Learn how democracies are under threat everywhere and how we can preserve ours – if we really want to.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Psychology Sociology

17. The importance of siblings

2 Nov

Our siblings are often our longest lasting relationships and can be sources of emotional support and collaboration, but also with challenges, rivalries and complexities. As adults, sibling bonds continue to shape our identity, emotional health and family cohesion.

Presenter: Assoc Prof John Brennan

History Ireland Australia

18. Part 1: The Troubles Part 2: Turbulent Times

9 Nov

Part 1. The conflict in Northern Ireland, – 1998; a personal perspective.

Part 2. The history of Australia’s oldest purpose-built mental asylum

Presenter: Chris Schofield

Health Death

19. Community conversations: workshop for future health and care decisions

16 Nov

Designed to help people better understand advance care and end-of-life planning, and to feel more confident having these important conversations.

Presenter: Anthony Bui

Sociology Current Affairs

20. A day in the life of a first responder

23 Nov

Gabi is a registered nurse and midwife who has worked as a first responder emergency nurse in Türkiye, Bahamas and Ukraine. Her stories demonstrate compassion in the toughest places.

Presenter: Gabrielle Macaulay

Culture

21. Christmas traditions around the world

30 Nov

Christmas traditions around the world range from solemn ceremonies to unique, light-hearted customs. Key traditions include KFC feasts in Japan, the mischievous Yule Lads in Iceland, roller-skating to church in Venezuela, giant lantern festivals in the Philippines, and the ’Burning of the Devil ’in Guatemala.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

MOSMAN SQUARE SENIORS CENTRE

Next to Mosman Council Chambers wheelchair access, parking nearby michaelsuckling@outlook.com

WEDNESDAYS AT MOSMAN SQUARE

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

No booking required.

Current Affairs Legal

1. The Lehrmann/Higgins Omnishambles

22 Jul

How much do you really know about the Higgins/Lehrmann Case? Allegations, aborted criminal trial, defamation and legal repercussions.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Current Affairs Legal

2. Julian Assange – hero or villain?

29 Jul

Admire him or loathe him? We have to confront difficult issues – journalism, free speech and power of Wikileaks

Presenter: David Hirsch

Writing

3. We all have a book in us

5 Aug

Everyone can use observation of the world around us, plus their life experience to craft fiction.

Presenter: Maggie Wilkins

Games Famous People

4. Thomas Wentworth Wills

12 Aug

Tom Wills became the first captain and coach of the famous aboriginal cricket team. He also started the game of Australian Rules football. It’s a story that leads into the heart of our nation.

Presenter: Greg de Moore

History Australia

5. Part 1: The crimes of convict women. Part 2: Tales of unknown pioneers

19 Aug

Part 1: Despite being sent out to Australia for crimes they had committed, they continued to commit crimes once they got here. Part 2: The lives of the more obscure great pioneers and their exploits and peccadilloes.

Presenter: Judith Dunn

Science

6. From Soul to Synapse – the evolving concepts of mind and self

26 Aug

Exploring the origin, history and evolution of concepts such as the soul, the mind, the self and free will, and clarifying what modern neuroscience has to say about the ideas.

Presenter: Keneth Murray

History Maritime

7. The greatest voyage in maritime history

2 Sep

The greatest voyage in maritime history occurred 500 years ago from 1519 to 1522, when the vessel “Victoria”, captained by Ferdinand Magellan and then Juan Sebastian Del Cano, first circumnavigated the world.

Presenter: Ian Burnet

Science

8. Journey to the centre of the earth

9 Sep

Learn about our planet. The volcanoes, tsunamis and more.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Human Body Science

9. All in the Mind

16 Sep

Fascinating, inspiring and transformative stories from the forefront of brain science.

Presenter: Lynne Malcolm

Science

10. Science myths and misconceptions.

23 Sep

Examining a diverse range of commonly held, sciencebased myths, their origins and the reasons they persist despite contrary scientific evidence.

Presenter: Kevin Murray

Geology Science

11. An enduring Nexus

30 Sep

A view of the world grounded in science but also exploring deeper questions. An holistic examination of planet Earth and its symbiotic interface with the life that lives upon it.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

Investment Money

12. The share market for beginners

7 Oct

Curious about the share market, but not sure where to start? The goal is to make the talk informative, fun and interactive.

Presenter: Rodney Walker

Art Mathematics

13. Mathematics in art

14 Oct

From the Renaissance to the work of M.C. Escher. Mathematical principles have inspired many breakthroughs in the visual arts. In the 20th Century tessellation and selfreferencing have been explored by both mathematicians and artists.

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Science Nature

14. Extraordinary eyes – how animals see the world

21 Oct

For us the world is a stunning place, but what is it like for the other members of the animal kingdom. What function does colour serve for them? Finding a male, defence, camouflage and adaptive colouration.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Literature Australia

15. Introduction to the works of Kate Grenville

28 Oct

Kate Grenville is one of Australia’s most well-known writers whose novel “The Secret River” achieved international acclaim and caused some controversy in Australia. This talk will discuss her work and its impact.

Presenter: Sue Kossew

Science

16. The Sun, the giver of life

4 Nov

Sun means “life”, providing us with food, light and power via solar radiation.

Presenter: Punchi Dassanayake

Health

17. Sleep

11 Nov

Finding it more difficult to wind down? Here are some great tips and inspiration to improve your sleep.

Presenter: Gayle Nelson

History Literature

18. The hidden meaning of nursery rhymes

18 Nov

Why was a baby on a tree top? Why were mice being persecuted? An historical, entertaining look at nursery rhymes.

Presenter: Susan Ackroyd

19. Join us for an end of year celebration

25 Nov

Members are welcome to come along, bringing food and liquid refreshments, to enjoy a social get-together at the end of the year.

MOSMAN: THE GARRISON

13 Spit Road (enter from Punch Street)

Wheelchair access, bus stop nearby

Creative Writing

DEVELOP YOUR MEMOIR OR WRITING

First Thursday of the month from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:00 Are you ready to present what you have been working on to a supportive group? Or you can simply come to enjoy writing on an impromptu topic in whatever genre you choose.

Leader and Bookings: Jenny Rudd O’Neill jennyruddoneill@gmail.com 0466 979 781

MOSMAN: THE MANORS OF MOSMAN RETIREMENT VILLAGE

6 Hale Rd, off Military Rd 0434 839 172 margaretk14@gmail.com

Book Group Literature LITERARY DISCUSSION GROUP (max 12)

2nd Tuesday of every month from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

This friendly group discusses a variety of demanding literature including poetry, drama and non-fiction.

Bookings: Elisabeth Kingsford-Smith 0408 703 373

Leader: Mary Billing mbilliogs@hotmail.com 0416 199 007

NORTH RYDE RSL COMMUNITY CLUB

27 Magdala Rd

Parking available Bowls

LAWN BOWLS **NEW** (max 10)

Thursdays from 6 Aug 10:00 to 12:00

Lawn bowls, as social or competitive as you wish, is a fun game for all ages. It offers gentle physical exercise, mental stimulation and meeting new friends. North Ryde RSL Club is offering a 3 session “Introduction to Bowls”. All equipment and tuition will be provided. Bookings: Anne Richardson u3asechs@gmail.com 0414 367 467

OUT THERE (HARBOURSIDE NORTH)

Outdoors - Eating Out

THIRD FRIDAY LUNCH GROUP (max 20)

Third Friday of each month from 17 Jul 12:00 to 14:00

We meet for lunch at restaurants all over Sydney that serve a variety of cuisines. We try to book BYO wine venues where there is a small corkage charge, which attendees are required to pay.

Leader and bookings: Sissi Stewart sis.ken@outlook.com 0405 982 948

NORTHERN BEACHES

Regional President: Lynda Cronshaw nbpres@sydneyu3a.org Enquiries only

Regional Course Coordinator: Suzan Fayle secnbsydu3a@gmail.com

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

AVALON: RECREATION CENTRE

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

Art

AVALON ART GROUP (max 12)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 12:00 to 15:30

Enjoy the company of other artists with varying levels of skill. Bring your own equipment (any medium). No tuition given. Arrive and leave any time between the start and end time above.

Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com 0455 948 864

BALGOWLAH: CLUB TOTEM

195 Condamine St Level 3, Washaway Room. wheelchair access, parking onsite

Book Group

LITERATURE (max 12)

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 11:00 to 13:00 Washaway Room Level 3

A wide range of authors and their books are discussed. These include On earth we are briefly gorgeous by Ocean Vuong, Air, Fire, Earth, Water by John Boyne, My brother Jack by George Johnston, Malalenca Lyrebird by Jane Caro. Leader: Sandra Orton

Booking via the Booking Secretary Bookings: Janelle Laidlaw janelledorothylaidlaw@gmail.com 0418 436 127

FORESTVILLE: RSL CLUB

22 Melwood Ave

wheelchair access, parking onsite 0403255770 bethrobertson@aapt.net.au

Craft

CRAFT IN THE FOREST

Alternate Fridays from 3 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Bistro

Join our inspirational group of craft enthusiasts for a relaxing morning of chat and the sharing of new skills. No prior knowledge expected, only the love of learning new creative ideas.

Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: Beth Robertson bethrobertson@aapt.net.au 0403 255 770

FRENCHS FOREST: LIONEL WATTS COMMUNITY CENTRE

93-95 Blackbutts Rd

wheelchair access, parking nearby 0407 547 583 john@wattever.com

FRIDAYS IN THE FOREST

Last Friday of month from 31 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

No Bookings Required

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.

Medical Matters

1.Putting Alternative Medicine to the Test

31 Jul

Kevin Murray follows up on his great Dreams talk to tell us about the rise of the Clinical Trial and looks at how Alternative Medicine fares when put through modern Clinical Trials.

Speaker: Kevin Murray

History Australia

2.The Great Australian Gold Rush

28 Aug

Peter Headley returns to tell us about life on the goldfields in the 1850’s, with its hardship, bushrangers, yet bonanzas too and how the gold rush changed Australia. Did any of your ancestors strike gold?

Speaker: Peter Headley

Food Politics

3. Dining with Dictators

25 Sep

What would it be like to have dinner with Stalin or Hitler? Diana Noyce tells us about what some of the world’s most notorious despots have enjoyed at the dinner table. Dinner is served!

Speaker: Diana Noyce

Health

4. Palliative Care’s Community Conversations

30 Oct

Join us for a consequential presentation from Palliative Care NSW to help us plan for future health, care preferences, and end-of-life. Not to be missed!

Speaker: Anthony Bui

Storytelling

5. Memories are Made of This

27 Nov

Those fantastic events, places and people we treasure. Join us for our last meeting for 2026 for a journey of wonderful memories with videos and stories to delight. Christmas cake and mince pies for morning tea too!

Speaker: John Watt

FRENCHS FOREST: THE DUTCH CLUB

1 Grattan Cres (off Bantry Bay Rd) wheelchair access, parking onsite 0412 161 969 jayefpe@hotmail.com

Ukulele Music

UKULELE INTERMEDIATE/ADVANCED (max 80)

Every Tuesday from 7 Jul 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.

Bookings: John Peters or Larry Crowley larrycrowley@optusnet.com.au Leader and Bookings: John Peters jayefpe@hotmail.com 0412 161 069

NARRABEEN NORTH: NARRABEEN BAPTIST CHURCH

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 and fifth Wednesday of September from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 Level 1 Room 2

The group will continue building a repertoire of classic soft rock/blues acoustic pieces. Only basic skills with guitar chords and following lyric/chord charts are needed. Bring own guitar and music stand. Due to popularity this course is full. Contact the Booking Secretary to be added to the waitlist. Leader and Bookings: Claudie Moffatt cmof5582@bigpond.net.au 0411 270 037

Music Performance

THE 3RD AGE ROCK ORCHESTRA (max 30)

First three Wednesdays of month from 1 Jul 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

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Music Ukulele

UKULELE FOR BEGINNERS

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 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!

Booking via the Booking Secretary

GROUP 1 – begins 28 July | GROUP 2 – begins 13 October Leader: Felicity Davis felicity@sciencefilms.com.au 0414 470 644

Bookings: Elaine Hartman mathstutor@iinet.net.au

Art - Painting

THURSDAY ART GROUP (max 11)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 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

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Anne Heath annemareeheath@gmail.com 0407 226 277

Language Latin LATIN BEGINNERS 2 (max 10)

Alternate Fridays from 24 Jul 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 reading selected Latin literary texts. New members accepted only if have studied sufficient Latin previously.

Text: The Oxford Latin Course Part 1 - Student Book (ISBN 9780 19912264)

Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170

Philosophy HISTORY OF PHILOSOPHY

Alternate Fridays from 24 Jul 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.

Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: John Lauricella jml1010@yahoo.com 0415 500 844

Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE 2 (max 10)

Alternate Fridays from 24 Jul 12:30 to 14:30

Education Centre Ground Floor

Continuation course (for 2025 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 - Student Book Leader and Bookings: Gail Sadler gailasadler@gmail.com 0420 989 170

Language French FRENCH POST BEGINNERS/INTERMEDIATE (max 14)

Alternate Fridays from 31 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Education Centre Ground Floor

Books required Verb book, French Dictionary French Made Simple – Pamela Rose Haze. Short Stories in French - Olly Richards and Richard Simcott (beginners).

Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: Olivia Kesby olivia.kesby@gmail.com 0401 303 472

Music Singing

SING FOR THE JOY OF SINGING

Alternate Fridays from 31 Jul 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.

Bookings not required.

Enquiries: Lynda Cronshaw lyndacron@gmail.com 0411 041 537

NARRABEEN: TRAMSHED ARTS AND COMMUNITY CENTRE

1395A Pittwater Rd

wheelchair access, parking nearby 9979 8707 marciaandrews711@hotmail.com

Yoga

YOGA AND RELAXATION (max 25)

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 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. Enrol in only one yoga class across Newport and Tramshed (Narrabeen). Leader: Maryanne Deans Kolek

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Elizabeth Kelly liz@lizkelly.id.au

Art Drawing Painting

ART: PAINTING AND DRAWING IN ANY MEDIUM (max 20)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 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

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Narelle Harvey nel11@bigpond.com 0447 865 657

Discussion Group Movies

MONDAY AT THE MOVIES - MAM (max 25)

First Monday of each month from 6 Jul 14:00 to 16:00 No public holidays

Lakeview Hall

Enjoy current movies? Our movie club operates similarly 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. Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: Elizabeth Boase lizzyboasebruce@gmail.com 0413 736 331

Language French ADVANCED FRENCH (max 12)

Alternate Fridays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 Berry Hall

Advanced conversation in French based on a text and tape.

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Leader: Wendy Clark scorpio39@bigpond.com

Bookings: Suzanne Whitlock suewhitlock@yahoo.com.au

Current Affairs

TOPICS OF OUR TIMES (max 25)

Alternate Tuesdays from 14 Jul 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.

Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader: Antoine van De Walle

Bookings: Peggy Crocker fripeg2@gmail.com 0411 411 264

NEWPORT: COMMUNITY CENTRE

11-13 The Boulevard

Wheelchair access. Parking nearby 0424 464 047 helsim@internode.on.net

TOPICS OF INTEREST

First Wednesday every month except October from 1 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

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. Bookings not required.

Leader: Margaret White marg.white@me.com

Main Hall

Current Affairs Philosophy

1. The Age of Uncertainty

1 Jul

“In the Age of Uncertainty, reason and common sense are the antidote to dystopia”- seen through the eyes of local journalist and filmmaker.

Presenter: Jeff Mc Mullin

History Australia Maritime

2. From all the lands on earth we come!

5 Aug

Immigration to Australia by ship from 1830s to 1900Sharing the journals and diaries of the passengers.

Presenter: Gavin Crawford

Internet Technology

3. AI for Seniors

2 Sep

While it might sound complex and intimidating, Artificial Intelligence can enhance your life, and provide life changing experiences no matter what your age!

Presenter: Peter Thorpe

Actors Australia

4. Who am I? Anne, Molly, Sal and Liz

4 Nov

Film, television & theatre actor - Melissa “Molly” Jones in A Country Practice, Liz Taylor in Always Greener & Sal Kerrigan opposite Michael Caton in The Castle.

Presenter: Anne Tenney

5. Christmas Party

2 Dec

Christmas Party.

Speaker: TBA

Tai Chi Qigong

QIGONG (max 20)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 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. Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: Penny Auburn penauburn@gmail.com

Games Bridge

SOCIAL BRIDGE (max 16)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 Activity Rooms 1 and 2

Join us for Social Bridge, with guidance from Terry Herfort.

Leader and Enquiries: Terry Herfort terry@herfort.com.au 0421 920 688

Yoga

YOGA AND RELAXATION (max 32)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 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. Enrol in only one class across Newport and Tramshed (Narrabeen).

Teacher: Maryanne Deans Kolek

Booking via the Booking Secretary Bookings: Susan Barnard susanbarnard@iinet.net.au

Art Painting

ART CLASS WITH KAYE DEXTER (max 10)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 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

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Robyn Mayman peter@maymans.com

Drama

FUN DRAMA ACTIVITIES

Alternate Wednesdays from 22 Jul 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. Booking via the Booking Secretary

Leader and Bookings: Helen Rosenkranz helenrosenkranz@gmail.com 0405 060 727

Table Tennis

TABLE TENNIS (max 50)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 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.

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Hazel Williams williamsjhazel@gmail.com 0403 265 345

Spanish Language SPANISH (max 12)

Every Friday from 24 Jul 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

Enquiries: Jackie Prior jackie_prior@hotmail.com 0411 017 772

Language French

INTERMEDIATE FRENCH (max 12)

Alternate Wednesdays from 29 Jul 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

Booking via Booking Secretary

Bookings: John Benjamin johnsbenjamin27@gmail.com 0418 200 124

NEWPORT: PITTWATER PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

Corner Robertson Rd and Ocean Ave parking nearby 0431993216 janeska.ahmed@gmail.com

Music Recorder RECORDER CONSORT

Every Wednesday from 1 Jul 10:30 to 12:30

A small group playing descant, treble, tenor and bass recorders, playing music from Renaissance to Bach through to Modern and Jazz.

New players always welcome.

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Jane Ahmed janeska.ahmed@gmail.com 0431 993 216

NORTH CURL CURL: COMMUNITY CENTRE

Cnr Griffin and Abbott Rds

Not public holidays, wheelchair access, parking onsite runasm@ihug.com.au

THURSDAYS AT NORTH CURL CURL

A series of weekly presentations by people who are experts in their subject.

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Bookings not required

Crime Literature

1. The White Crow

2 Jul

Michael is a former feature writer and investigative reporter, who has worked in Britain, Australia and America. He will talk about his latest book and give us a bit of insight into the crime writing world.

Presenter: Michael Robotham

Transport History

2. History of tramways 9 Jul

History of tramways on the North Shore and Northern Beaches, including the early development of other forms of transport such as buses and ferries.

Presenter: Ron Besdansky

Legal

3. The Lehrmann/Higgins omnishambles 16 Jul

How much do you really know about the Brittany Higgins / Bruce Lehrmann case? Learn about Higgins’ allegations against Lehrmann, the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case, and the ongoing legal repercussions of what Justice Michael Lee described as an “omnishambles”. Spoiler alert: Everybody loses.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Legal Broadcasting

4. Julian Assange - hero or villain

23 Jul

Admire him or loathe him, Julian Assange has forced us to confront difficult issues journalism, free speech, and the power of the internet. We explore the background to WikiLeaks, the disclosure of information that embarrassed and confounded governments, his years of hiding and ultimately his arrest and conviction by the US courts.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Japan

5. Japan - the island country of East Asia 30 Jul

We examine the history and topography of Japan, plus their population demographics, political system, military, economy, language plus other many other aspects of Japan including their parliamentary democracy and the Imperial family.

(Part 1)

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Music Appreciation

6. Soundtrack: one hit wonders 6 Aug

Many musical artists and groups throughout the history of popular music only had hits in the charts once (or twice maybe) never to appear again. The songs may linger but their names may not. Harvey presents an eclectic mix of songs that will stir your memories.

Presenter: Harvey Broadbent

Europe Current Affairs

7. The Baltic States, 1 of 3 sessions

13 Aug

The nine countries around the Baltic Sea are poorly understood but are key to understanding how important they might be in Europe’s future.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Europe Current Affairs

8. The Baltic States 2 of 3 sessions

20 Aug

The nine countries around the Baltic Sea are poorly understood but are key to understanding how important they might be in Europe’s future.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Theatre Australia

9. Australian Theatre, 1 of 4 sessions

27 Aug

We look at the development of theatre in Australia. From beginnings like “Summer of the 17th doll” to present day playwrights and their work.

Presenter: Diana Pheils

Europe Current Affairs

10. The Baltic States 3 of 3 sessions

3 Sep

The nine countries around the Baltic Sea are poorly understood but are key to understanding how important they might be in Europe’s future.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Science

11. Some adventures of a female scientist 10 Sep

Growing up in a family of sports stars where no one had ever been to university and, like many others, women were expected to be housewives. This is the story of my life, including some of my successes and disasters! There are many lessons to be learnt!

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

History Food

12. Victorian era alfresco dining: pleasurable and macabre 17 Sep

The picnic was a new way of sharing food and became an acceptable fixture of the social calendar for the burgeoning middle classes.

Warning: images of nudity.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Theatre Australia

13. Australian theatre, 2 of 4 sessions

24 Sep

We look at the development of theatre in Australia. From beginnings like “Summer of the 17th doll” to present day playwrights and their work.

Presenter: Diana Pheils

Music Appreciation

14. Soundtrack: Beatles, Part 2

1 Oct

Harvey continues where he left off from Beatles Part 1, from the Sergeant Pepper’s psychedelia and the progressive White Album to a walk down Abbey Road, before Letting It Be.

Presenter: Harvey Broadbent

History

15. Life in a Turkish harem

8 Oct

The Turkish harem was operated for five centuries by women and eunuchs. It became a political power base of the Turkish Ottoman Empire. Throughout the centuries, this hotbed of intrigue and danger fascinated European visitors to Turkey.

Presenter: Cindy Davies

History Australia

16. Two rebellious uncles

15 Oct

The lives of bush poet Tom “Crosscut” Wilson, and IrishAustralian rebel “General” Joseph Holt, both discovered during the presenter’s family history research.

Presenter: Laurie Wilson

Theatre Australia

17. Australian theatre, 3 of 4 sessions

22 Oct

We look at the development of theatre in Australia. From beginnings like “Summer of the 17th doll” to present day playwrights and their work.

Presenter: Diana Pheils

Crime History

18. Missing presumed dead

29 Oct

Dorothy David and Kerry Whelan went missing in the late 1990’s. Tedeschi KC talks about the case in his book.

Presenter: Mark Tedeschi

Music

19. Soundtrack: Second Time Round

5 Nov

Second Time Round, the Northern Beaches band, will play rock, pop and show tunes from the late 1950’s to early 2000’s. It’s the music you know and love. You’ve sung along, danced and romanced to this music; it’s the soundtrack of your life.

Presenter: Francis Buttle

Health

20. Insomnia

12 Nov

Insomnia is becoming increasingly common. I’ll share my proven tips so that you can rediscover the joy of falling asleep, staying asleep and not waking too early!

Presenter: Gayle Nelson

Science Food

21. Fungi kingdom

19 Nov

We examine what separate members of the fungi kingdom, including mushrooms both edible and non-edible, toadstools, mildews, smuts, moulds, and yeasts.

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Theatre Australia

22. Australian theatre, 4 of 4 sessions

26 Nov

We look at the development of theatre in Australia. From beginnings like “Summer of the 17th doll” to present day playwrights and their work.

Presenter: Diana Pheils

Music

23. Soundtrack: music session and Christmas lunch

3 Dec

Members are encouraged to bring a small plate to share with others.

Presenter: Eve Lane

Japan Travel

24. Japan - Living and working in Japan as a foreigner

10 Dec

We consider further aspects of Japan’s quaint culture, including correct way to bow, cuisine and fashion, public transport, public bath-houses, together with how not to behave as a tourist in Japan (part 2).

Presenter: Ian Thompson

Games Mah Jong

MAHJONG - THE WESTERN GAME (max 40)

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 12:30 to 15:30 Learn and play Mahjong in a friendly atmosphere. Patient teaching is provided by Judith Bennett. Leader and Bookings: Sylvia Strike sylviastrike@hotmail.com 0414 290 938

Cards Canasta

CANASTA - BOLIVIA VERSION (max 32)

Every Thursday from 2 Jul 12:45 to 16:00

Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time to allow time to arrange seating. Take the opportunity to learn the strategies and tactics of this version of Canasta. Training for new players will take place on July 23rd and July 30th.

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Leader and Bookings: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com 0455 948 864

Exercise

BALANCE ‘N’ BONES EXERCISE (Easy)

Every Monday and Friday from 3 Jul 09:30 to 10:20

Conditioning exercises for all major muscle groups and balancing to improve posture. Instruction by Beth Denny DVD.

Leader Mondays: Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au

Leader Fridays: Debbie Czharn peekingkat@gmail.com

Bookings not required

NO SESSION ON MONDAY 6th JULY DUE TO MAINTENANCE AT VENUE

Exercise

BALANCE ‘N BONES (Advanced)

Every Monday and Friday from 3 Jul 10:30 to 11:20

Conditioning exercises for all major muscle groups and balancing to improve posture. Instruction by Beth Denny DVD.

Leader Mondays: Runa Schmidt-Muller runasm@ihug.com.au

Leader Fridays: Debbie Czharn peekingkat@gmail.com

Bookings not required

NO SESSION ON MONDAY 6th JULY DUE TO MAINTENANCE AT VENUE

Trivia

TRIVIA FOR FUN

Every Friday from 3 Jul 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.

Bookings not required

Leader: Eve Lane evelane222@gmail.com 0455 948 864

Games Bridge

SOCIAL BRIDGE

Every Monday from 13 Jul 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 14 Jul 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: John Carr: carr.patricia9@gmail.com

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Jill Barrett: jillb45@hotmail

Games Cards

CARD GAMES 500

Alternate Tuesdays from 14 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

We meet and enjoy or learn to play cards in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Tuition for new players will be provided. Leader and Bookings: Wolfgang Buschhaus wbuschhaus@gmail.com 0410 404 127

Cinema - Movies

MOVIE SERIES: PRESENTER’S PICK

Alternate Tuesdays from 14 Jul 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

CURLY QUESTIONS IN SCIENCE

For members who enjoy science, please join us for a series of talks on a wide range of topics presented by speakers who are experts in their field.

Alternate Tuesdays from 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Bookings not required

Medical Matters Technology

1. Medical Technology: evolution, regulation and issues 21 Jul

Medical technology has evolved from the 1940’s but there have been challenges including heart valves, biological implants, joint replacements, HIV/AIDS, COVID and devices for women e.g., breast implants, vaginal mesh, IUDs. Understand its impact and regulation, initiated in 1990.

Presenter: Dr Derrick Beech

Transport Energy

2. Oil - from drilling to your tank

4 Aug

The Iran war has become a war about oil. We explore the issues of origins, refining and transport of this commodity.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Medical Matters

3. Brain Science issues - all in the mind

18 Aug

Our presenter will discuss fascinating insights into how the brain and mind work, living with mental difference and debilitating mental conditions, and new pathways to healing in the course of her career as a Science journalist and ABC radio broadcaster “All in the Mind”.

Presenter: Lynne Malcolm

Medical Matters Agriculture

4. From Mendel to meddling: a cautionary tale

1 Sep

Mendel’s insights in 1865 led to great advances in agriculture and medicine but recent applications have had some disastrous results, including risks of ‘biological warfare’. Is the ‘genie out of the bottle’ or are there actions we can take?

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Medical Matters Technology

5. From soul to synapse

15 Sep

This talk explores the origin, history and evolution of concepts such as the soul, the mind, the self and free will, clarifying what modern neuroscience has to say about these ideas.

Presenter: Kevin Murray

Energy History

6. Let there be light

29 Sep

The Story of Electricity and the Role of International Exhibitions in Facilitating the Popularisation of Electricity

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Marine Wildlife

7. Guardians of the ocean: why whales matter

13 Oct

Do you know there are 94 species of whales? Beautiful and intriguing, somewhat mysterious and elusive cetaceans. Prepare to be entranced and amazed by Rita’s photographs and discover little-known whale facts.

Presenter: Rita Shaw

Medical Matters Technology

8. AI in healthcare

27 Oct

Deployment of AI in health care is growing rapidly. The presentation will cover developments in General Practice, Radiology, Robotic Surgery, and Drug Discovery.

Presenter: Andrew Holt

Photography History

9. The History of photography - from pinholes to pixels

10 Nov

From pin-holes to pixels - milestones that have contributed to the development of modern photography as we know today in our ability to capture a moment in a photographto freeze it in time.

Presenter: Ian Thompson Physics

10. The science of nothing and everything

24 Nov

The concepts of zero and infinity have long fascinated mathematicians but have also caused headaches for physicists dealing with fundamental particles and “empty” space.

Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Current Affairs Discussion Group ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION

Alternate Tuesdays from 21 Jul 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. Leader: Various Bookings not required

Enquiries Carmen Exner carmen.exner@gmail.com 0448 452 343

Book Group Discussion Group

BOOK CLUB (max 12)

Tuesdays every 4 weeks from 28 Jul 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.

28 Jul, 25 Aug, 22 Sep, 20 Oct, 17 Nov, 1 Dec

Bookings via Booking Secretary

Bookings: Anne Black anneblack@yahoo.com.au

Leader: Helen Hopwood helenhopwood1@gmail.com

PALM BEACH:

CLUB PALM BEACH

1087 Barrenjoey Road parking nearby, wheelchair access, Bus 199 0421 880 582 maxma88@gmail.com

Mah Jong

MAHJONG - THE WESTERN GAME (max 40)

Every Tuesday from 7 Jul 12:30 to 15:00

Learn and play Mahjong in a friendly atmosphere. Leader and Bookings: Angela Mowday maxma88@gmail.com 0421 880 582

PRIVATE HOMES (NORTHERN BEACHES)

Book Group

WENDY’S BOOK CLUB (Forestville) (max 10)

Alternate Thursdays from 2 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

We borrow kits of books from the library. You will have four weeks to read your book before we discuss it. In the alternate meeting we share reading something aloud.

Leader: Bernie Gibson

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Bookings: Marienne Short mariennetravel@yahoo.com.au 0403 939 004

Music Appreciation

LEGENDARY CLASSICAL MUSIC PERFORMERS OF 20th CENTURY (Newport) (max 9)

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

The program for first semester would present popular classical music favourites in superlative performancesfeaturing fabulous video and recorded sound. Includes discussion and education about the compositions being heard. Private home in Newport with quality home theatre. Leader and Bookings: Ivor Zetler ivor.zetler51@gmail.com 0432 440 651 (text only)

Booking via the Booking Secretary

Music Appreciation

BACH TO THE FUTURE (Avalon) (max 20)

Alternate Fridays from 10 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

During each session we analyse a topic related to classical music, with examples of great recordings of the music being studied. Class members are encouraged to discuss the music and suggest topics for future study.

Leader and Bookings: Roger Pratt a.and.r.pratt2@bigpond.com 0405 199 093

WARRIEWOOD COMMUNITY CENTRE

Cnr Jacksons and Pittwater Rds wheelchair access, parking nearby 9979 8707 marciaandrews711@hotmail.com

Dance

INTRODUCTION TO BALLROOM DANCE

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 12:00 to 14:00 North 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. Booking via the Booking Secretary Leader and Bookings: Peter Fennell peterfennell9@hotmail.com 0408 660 311

UPPER NORTH

Regional President: TBC

Regional Course Coordinator: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com Enquiries only

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

BEROWRA: COMMUNITY CENTRE

The Gully Rd behind Berowra Oval Parking onsite, close to Berowra Station

AFFAIRS OF INTEREST IN THE CHANGING WORLD

Second and fourth Mondays from 13 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED

Famous People Australia

1. In the steps of Len Beadell

13 Jul

Follow in the footsteps of Len Beadell in the opening up of the centre of Australia and finding locations for rocket and atomic bomb testing in Australia.

Presenter: Vera Liondas

Legal Australia

2. The Lehrmann/Higgins Omnishambles

27 Jul

Learn about Brittany Higgins’ allegations against Lehrmann - the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case and the ongoing legal repercussions of what Justice Michael Lee described as an “omnishambles”.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Disasters

3. Search Dogs Sydney

10 Aug

Highly qualified search technicians are partnered with expertly trained search dogs for wilderness operations, disasters and casualty events.

Presenter: Chris D’Arcy

Music Human Body

4. Music and emotion

24 Aug

Music is at the heart of all human cultures. This presentation will try to elucidate how music evokes emotions using insights from evolution, cultural history and brain research.

Presenter: John Brennan

Technology

5. Amateur (Ham) radio

14 Sep

A hobby for young and old, we trace events and developments from the foundation of the Wireless Institute of Australia in 1910 to the current day.

Presenter: Bob Armstrong

History Literature

6. History’s 50 most famous quotes - Socrates to JFK

28 Sep

Throughout 2,500 years, authors, orators, politicians, philosophers and many others have blessed humanity with inspirational sayings. Laugh and be uplifted by 50 famous quotes.

Presenter: Peter Ireland

International Relations

7. The United Nations - facing its greatest challenge

12 Oct

The United Nations is celebrating its 80th year. Can it survive and adapt to the challenges it is facing?

Presenter: Kel Gleeson

Australia Famous People

8. Banjo Paterson

26 Oct

A most loved and often quoted Australian bush poet, author, journalist and composer and a fascinating adventurer.

Presenter: Geoff Davidson

Astronomy

9. Sydney’s astronomical beginnings

9 Nov

Join us on the trail of William Dawes, astronomer, engineer, surveyor and ordnance officer - from his arrival with the First Fleet in 1788 until the construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in 1932.

Presenter: Richard de Grijs

Travel

10. Western Canada and Alaska

23 Nov

Follow the traditional tourist route of the Rocky Mountaineer and Alaskan cruise plus more out of the way experiences such as the mail seaplane to Vancouver Island and a bear safari in Whistler.

Presenter: Jennie Greenwell

EASTWOOD: BRUSH FARM NETBALL COURTS.

1 Lawson St

Parking onsite

Games Pickleball

PICKLEBALL (max 28)

Every Wednesday, not school holidays, from 22 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Pickleball is a fun game which mixes three sports into one – tennis, badminton and table tennis. It is played on a badminton size court. The net is lower than a tennis net, the paddles are the size of a beach bat and typically made of graphite and the ball is light plastic.

Leader and Bookings: Al Reeks areeks61@gmail.com

EPPING: LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

1 Chambers Court

Off Pembroke Street, beneath Library. Wheelchair access. Limited Parking

INTERESTING SPEAKERS AT EPPING (max 50)

Alternate Wednesdays from 1 Jul 13:00 to 15:00 not school holidays

Leader and Bookings: Patricia Tsang rydenurse@yahoo.com.au 0408 288 386

History Australia

1. The women behind the Governors (1788-1855) (max 50)

1 Jul

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

Presenter: David Senior

Medical Matters Health

2. Avoiding serious injuries for seniors (max 50)

29 Jul

Gain a better understanding of how older people can get seriously injured doing everyday activities. What makes injuries more likely, how to avoid them and what to do if you have an injury.

Presenter: Dr Dane Chalkley

Sociology

3. Danger was my business (max 50)

12 Aug

Gary assisted at some of the most harrowing local and world-wide disasters. Hear how he survived mentally, emotionally and physically and the consequences and lessons learnt. All questions will be addressed.

Presenter: Gary Raymond AO

History Iran

4. Princes and fleas, Qajar rule, the formation of Iran (max 50)

26 Aug

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

Presenter: John Tidmarsh

Science Food

5. An introduction to sensory science (max 50)

9 Sep

Science uses smell, taste, sight and hearing to develop new or better foods and beverages. Discover their main methods and practical applications.

Presenter: Greg Organ

Legal

6. Recent discussions of the Supreme Court: Estate disputes (max 50)

23 Sep

Estate disputes typically arise when a Will is contested. Legal action, in many cases, involves court intervention often beginning with mediation. But what changes have recently been made?

Presenter: Wal Abramowicz, Solicitor

History Death

7. Tales from the cemeteries (max 50)

21 Oct

A grim title but funny talk, revealing curious epitaphs, unintentionally funny quotes and outright lies told on memorials. An enormous amount of material is found in cemeteries and connecting to an ancestor’s grave is very satisfying.

Presenter: Judith Dunn OAM

History Maritime

8. The navy at Gallipoli (max 50)

4 Nov

The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) submarine AE2 was the first in action on ANZAC day 1915, hours before troops landed. The RAN Bridging Train was the last to leave Gallipoli. AE2 changed the Gallipoli campaign.

Presenter: Noel Phelan

Famous People

9. Winston Churchill (max 50)

18 Nov

Winston - 90 years of “blood, toil, tears and sweat”premature baby, aristocrat, war correspondent, army officer, husband, father, artist, MP, PM, one of history’s top achievers. He was amazing!

Presenter: Geoff Davidson

Tai Chi

TAI CHI (max 26)

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 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).

Course Leader: Dennis Siang Tan

Bookings: Patricia Tsang rydenurse@yahoo.com.au 0408 288 386

EPPING: UNITING CHURCH

Corner Chester and Oxford Sts Train station and bus stop nearby.

Dance

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING (max 29)

Every Friday from 3 Jul 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

Book Group

EPPING BOOK DISCUSSION GROUP (max 25)

Alternate Thursdays from 9 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

A reading and discussion group that considers a variety of texts with an emphasis on contemporary literature, occasionally including classics. The title of the first book for discussion will be given on enrolment. Please note: Books are not supplied. All bookings via Course Leaders.

Course Leader: Barbara Boston barbboston2013@gmail.com

Bookings: Christine Jackson mja655543@bigpond.com 0459 121 214

GORDON: LIBRARY

799 Pacific Highway

Wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station nearby Philosophy

PHILOSOPHY (max 30)

Alternate Mondays from 6 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

We will finish the course Masters of Greek Thought (Aristotle) by Prof. Robert C. Bartlett and in October start The Modern Political Tradition by Prof. Lawrence Cahoone, with both courses presented on DVD (Meeting Room 2).

Leader and Bookings: Jock Buselli jock.buselli@tpg.com.au 0416 058 484

Tai Chi

TAI CHI 1 (max 15)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 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 23 Jul 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

Language Mandarin CHINESE (MANDARIN) POST-BEGINNER (max 10)

Alternate Fridays from 31 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

This course introduces the basics of spoken Mandarin, focusing on every day expressions, pronunciation and simple sentence structures. Students will learn Pinyin (phonetic system) to help with speaking listening and reading. We will also introduce aspects of the fascinating Chinese culture (Meeting Room 1).

Leader and Bookings: Doreen Yang doreenyang2072@gmail.com 0410 009 968

HORNSBY UNITING CHURCH

24 William St

Parking onsite and nearby

Music Recorder

MEDIUM TO ADVANCED RECORDER (max 13)

Alternate Wednesdays from 1 Jul 10:00 to 12:30

Northern Recorder Players welcome intermediate to advanced players able to sight read and play a range of recorders. We aim to enjoy a variety of music including classical, baroque, early music, songs from musicals, dance, folk, jazz and film themes (Heritage Room).

Leader and Bookings: Vivienne Peters viv55peters@gmail.com 0401 371 472

HORNSBY: CENTRAL LIBRARY

28-44 George St

wheelchair access, parking nearby, train station and bus nearby

Spanish Language

LANGUAGES FOR TRAVELLING - SPANISH BEYOND BEGINNERS (max 25)

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

This course is for people who have studied the language for at least 40 hours. You will extend your vocabulary and understanding, cover some more advanced grammar and be encouraged in your reading in the chosen language (Room 8). 10 sessions only

Leader and Bookings: Patricia Gunning gunnosp@gmail.com 0415 857 947

Italian Language

LANGUAGES FOR TRAVELLING - ITALIAN BEYOND BEGINNERS (max 25)

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 13:30 to 15:30

This course is for people who have studied the language for at least 40 hours. You will extend your vocabulary and understanding, cover some more advanced grammar and be encouraged in your reading in the chosen language (Room 8). 10 sessions only

Leader and Bookings: Patricia Gunning gunnosp@gmail.com 0415 857 947

HORNSBY: LEISURE AND LEARNING CENTRE

25 Edgeworth David Ave Wheelchair access, parking nearby, bus stop nearby

Art Painting WATERCOLOUR PAINTING (max 16)

Alternate Thursdays from 2 Jul 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

Dance

DANCE DYNAMICS (max 26)

Every Tuesday from 7 Jul 10:00 to 11:15

This dance fitness class is all about having fun while moving your body to great music. A wonderful way to improve your coordination and balance as well as providing benefits for your physical, emotional and mental health.

All bookings via Course Leader 0409 448 542. Leader and Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com 0409 448 542

Art Painting PAINTING IN ACRYLICS (max 16)

Alternate Thursdays from 9 Jul 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

LINDFIELD GARDENS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

2 Ulmarra Place

Street parking available, bus at door

VARIOUS SPEAKERS (max 30)

Fourth Thursday of the month from 23 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Leader and Bookings: Sharon Jones marysharone149@icloud.com 0427 040 347

Legal Indigenous Australians

1. First Nations people in the criminal justice system (max 30)

23 Jul

With 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 Cowdrey AO, KC

Disasters

2. Search dogs (max 30)

27 Aug

Highly qualified techniques are partnered with expertly trained search dogs for wilderness operations, disasters and casualty events.

Presenter: Chris D’Arcy

Famous People

3. Sir Douglas Mawson (max 30)

24 Sep

An Australian geologist, Antarctic explorer and academic. He is known for being a key expedition leader with Sir Ernest Shackleton during the heroic age of Antarctic exploration.

Presenter: Nigel Hubbard

Broadcasting

4. The ABC - challenges and achievements (max 30)

22 Oct

Australia’s national independent public broadcaster and the challenges it faces, both historically and currently, in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Presenter: Janine Kitson

Literature History Australia

5. History of Australian slang (max 30)

26 Nov

The convict era introduced a number of terms. Geographical and cultural features in the new country led to colloquial expression that ended up being standard Australian English. Presenter: Sue Butler

LINDFIELD: SENIORS CENTRE

259 Pacific Highway (adjacent to Library)

wheelchair access, limited parking onsite, parking nearby, train station nearby

Book Group

MODERN AND CLASSIC NOVELS (max 10)

Alternate Thursdays from 2 Jul 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: Such is Life by Joseph Furphy and Slough House by Mick Herron. Leader and Bookings: Maurice O’Donovan odonovan.1@bigpond.com

Language Spanish

POST INTERMEDIATE SPANISH (max 7)

Alternate Mondays from 6 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

This continuing course will focus on conversation - speaking and listening. This may be based on a reading or Spanish spoken in everyday situations and will include grammar correction. Reasonable knowledge of grammar is required. Please contact Leader prior to enrolling in course.

Leader and Bookings: Jennifer Brady jennybry30@hotmail.com 0403 923 555

Language Latin LATIN INTERMEDIATE (max 10)

Every Wednesday from 22 Jul 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. Please contact Leader prior to enrolling in course.

Leader and Bookings: Helen Ledwidge helenledwidge685@gmail.com 0414 489 716

Language German GERMAN ADVANCED (max 18)

Every Friday from 24 Jul 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 (max 15)

Every Friday from 24 Jul 11:00 to 12:30

Em 2008 neu Abschlusskurs-Kursbuch Niveaustufe C1 and Arbeitsbuch (ISBN 978-3-19-511697-8) Erich Kastner: Die Konferenz der Tiere.

Leader and Bookings: Marika McLachlan marikamclachlan@bigpond.com 0411 151 722

OUT THERE (UPPER NORTH)

French Language FRENCH CONVERSATION (Meadowbank) **NEW** (max 10)

Every Tuesday from 7 Jul 10:00 to 11:30

Looking to boost your French speaking skills in a relaxed social setting? No grammar drills, pressure or stress - just casual, engaging conversation to help build confidence and fluency. We’ll chat about travel, food and fashion all while relaxing over coffee in a local cafe. Intermediate to advanced speakers welcome. Please contact Course Leader for details prior to booking online.

Leader and Bookings: Veronica Hibbs vhibbs@outlook.com

Outdoors - Walks WALK, TALK AND EXPLORE (max 35)

Third Wednesday of the month from 15 Jul 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. Walkers are welcome to lead a walk.

Leader and Bookings: Heather Lakiss heatherlakiss@gmail.com 0402 080 045

PENNANT HILLS: HORNSBY KU-RING-GAI CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH CENTRE

5 Fisher Avenue

Parking nearby, train station nearby

Poetry

POETRY WRITING (max 12)

Alternate Thursdays from 23 Jul 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

PRIVATE HOMES (UPPER NORTH)

Bridge BRIDGE FOR BEGINNERS (Thornleigh) **NEW** (max 24)

Alternate Wednesdays from 1 Jul 13:30 to 15:30 Learn to play both Social (Rubber) Bridge and Club Duplicate Bridge in a pleasant relaxed setting. All bookings via Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: James Stowe jstowe313@gmail.com 0411 238 664

Creative Writing INTERACTIVE CREATIVE WRITING (Dangar Island) (max 8)

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 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: Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com 0414 493 415

Poetry WITH RHYME AND REASON (Eastwood) (max 12)

Alternate Thursdays from 16 Jul 10:30 to 12:30 A relaxed, convivial group who love discussing poetry, our focus is modern English language poets but we also explore poems in translation and poets from other eras. Material is distributed before each meeting. All bookings via Course Leader. Leader and Bookings: Richard Clarke raclarkera@yahoo.com.au 0401 313 989

SOUTH TURRAMURRA: ST ANDREW’S UNITING CHURCH

Vernon St parking onsite

Language French FRENCH PRE-INTERMEDIATE (max 15)

Every Tuesday from 21 Jul 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.

Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck shirleybeck14744@gmail.com 0447 545 070

Language French FRENCH INTERMEDIATE (max 15)

Every Thursday from 23 Jul 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.

Leader and Bookings: Shirley Beck shirleybeck14744@gmail.com 0447 545 070

ST IVES FERNBANK RETIREMENT VILLAGE

2 Kitchener St parking onsite and nearby

Creative Writing SHORT STORY WRITING (max 12)

Alternate Tuesdays from 28 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

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: Cathryn Gibson cathryn.a.gibson@gmail.com 0468 484 504

ST IVES: UNITING CHURCH

Cnr Douglas St and Mona Vale Rd Wheelchair access. Parking available.

Music Ukulele

UKULELE FOR FUN (max 50)

Every Wednesday from 1 Jul 09:15 to 12:00

Looking for a new interest? Come and have wonderful fun with our friendly group. All beginners welcome. Start-up ukuleles available for you 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 Games Mahjong

MAHJONG PLAYERS GROUP (max 24)

Alternate Tuesdays from 7 Jul 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 0409 448 542.

Leader and Bookings: Deb Heagney heagney@bigpond.com 0409 448 542

Cinema

THE GOLDEN AGE OF CINEMA

Alternate Fridays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:30 Classic films from the 1920s to the 1960s will be screened (Wesley Room).

All bookings via the Course Leader 0432 696 163. Leader and Bookings: Gary Tyrrell talk2garyt@gmail.com

Discussion Group Current Affairs

CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 18)

Alternate Thursdays from 16 Jul 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: Ross Reichardt ross.reichardt@outlook.com 0410 504 931

Bookings: Deborah Reichardt drreichardt@outlook.com 0413 544 624

Dance

DANCE FOR FITNESS AND FUN (max 18)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 09:30 to 11:00

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

TURRAMURRA NORTH: THE LANDINGS

440 Bobbin Head Rd Clubhouse. Parking onsite

TOPICS OF INTEREST (max 8)

Second and fourth Mondays from 13 Jul 14:00 to 15:30 NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED

All enquiries to Wendy Bull on 9488 5268 or thelandingsvilla@gmail.com

Birdwatching Nature

1. The wonder of birds (max 8) 13 Jul

Annette lives locally and shares with us her brilliant photo presentation taken in our Ku-ring-gai area. We see the elusive Silver Eye, lyrebird and wrens in our local national parks.

Presenter: Annette Scholtz

Health Performance

2. The Clown Doctors (max 8) 27 Jul

The Clown Doctors bring much needed relief and laughter to children in hospital, turning long and challenging hospital stays into fun and joy. They also focus on aged-care facilities and geriatric wards to alleviate dementia and/or social isolation.

Presenter: Nicci Cowdroy

Science

3. From soul to synapse (max 8)

10 Aug

We explore the origin, history and evolution of concepts such as the soul, the mind, the self and free-will, clarifying what modern neuroscience has to say about these ideas.

Presenter: Kevin Murray

Iran History

4. Iran - past and present (max 8)

24 Aug

Iran, a monarchy for 2,500 years, became an Islamic Republic almost overnight in 1979. Now a major player in the Middle East, we look at the former Persian Empire and its place in the 21st Century.

Presenter: Cindy Davies-Broadbent

Legal

5. The Lehrmann/Higgins omnishambles (max 8)

14 Sep

Learn about Brittany Higgins’ allegations against Lehrmann - the aborted criminal trial, the failed defamation case and ongoing legal repercussions.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Famous People

6. Julian Assange - hero or villain? (max 8)

28 Sep

Admire or loath him, Julian Assange has forced us to confront difficult issues around free speech and the power of the internet. We look at the disclosure of information and his years of hiding and, ultimately, his arrest and conviction.

Presenter: David Hirsch

Health Medical Matters

7. John Cade - an Australian doctor (max 8)

12 Oct

John Cade was an Australian doctor who discovered the benefits of lithium as the first pharmacological treatment for bipolar disorder.

Presenter: Greg de Moore

Britain Literature

8. The remarkable Bronte family (max 8)

26 Oct

We look at the lives and work of the three Bronte sisters: Charlotte, Emily and Anne. We also discuss their littleknown brother, Branwell, and the scandal surrounding him.

Presenter: Cindy Davies-Broadbent

Local History

9. North Shore tragedy - the murder of Dr. Claude Tozer (max 8)

9 Nov

Dr. Claude Tozer (1890 - 1920), a prominent medical doctor, a first-class cricketer, handsome over-achiever and soldier was tragically murdered by the woman he “led on” at Lindfield on 21st December 1920.

Presenter: Garry Smith

History Australia Local

10. Turbulent times and 100 years of Sydney pictures (max 8)

23 Nov

We look at the history of Australia’s oldest purpose-built mental asylum and a collection of pictures - 100 years of Sydney’s history.

Presenter: Chris Schofield

TURRAMURRA: UNITING CHURCH

Turramurra Ave

Parking onsite wheelchair access, train station and bus nearby.

Games Canasta

CANASTA (max 18)

Alternate Mondays from 13 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

Beginners will be taught the basic Canasta game and then continue with social play. More experienced players will continue strategies and tactics in either single or double play (Garden Room).

Leader: Sam Marr 9487 3806

Bookings: Marilyn Pryor marilynpryor7@gmail.com 0414 493 415

Language German

PRE INTERMEDIATE GERMAN (max 22)

Every Monday from 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 not school holidays

We will develop speaking, reading and listening skills and German vocabulary and grammar knowledge. The course uses textbooks and assumes some prior study of, or familiarity with, the German language. Please contact Course Leader prior to enrolling in course. (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 21 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

We discuss current affairs and associated ideas based on media reports in an informal and objective manner. An agenda is distributed prior to each meeting setting out subjects for discussion, which have been contributed by individual members (Garden Room).

Leader: Sharon Vincent sharonv110@gmail.com 0405 823 841

Bookings: Susanne Hodgson tonynsue11@gmail.com 0439 570 405

Games

FUN PUZZEOLOGY (max 15)

Alternate Tuesdays from 28 Jul 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 sandrasadler07@gmail.com 0400 483 707

WAHROONGA: THE WONIORA

9 Woniora Avenue

Wheelchair access. Parking available.

Language German

GERMAN INTERMEDIATE (max 15)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 10:15 to 12:15

This course assumes that students have studied German in the past and want to brush up on their speaking, reading skills and basic grammar. The emphasis is on oral German and some necessary grammar.

All bookings via the Course Leader.

Leader and Bookings: Dorothee Schifter dorothee.schifter@bigpond.com 0400 164 817

ZOOM COURSES

Crosswords

MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)

First Wednesday of the month from 1 Jul 14:00 to 16:00 Guided practice sessions for members who have already participated in Cracking Cryptic Crosswords or who have other relevant experience.

Leader: Ron Shapiro

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

THURSDAYS ON ZOOM

Fortnightly from 2 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Bookings: Rosemarie Einstein re.u3a@starmer.net.au 0412 043 377

Human Body Science

1. Insights from “All in the Mind”

2 Jul

Insights into how the brain and mind work, living with mental difference and debilitating mental conditions, and new pathways to healing, through some of the powerful stories Lynne has heard in the course of her broadcasting career.

Presenter: Lynne Malcolm

History

2. Prime Minister lost – The Harold Holt tragedy 16 Jul

On December 17th 1967, Harold Holt went missing in heavy surf. Despite one of the largest maritime searches in Australian history, his body was never found and the event remains one of the greatest unsolved mysteries on our national record.

Presenter: Dick Whittaker

History Education

3. What is happening to and at our universities?

30 Jul

Most of us who went to university soon after finishing school attended very different institutions from those that exist today. Government funding, student numbers and advances in technology are some of the main drivers of the changes.

Presenter: Rosemarie Einstein

Wildlife

4. WIRES: Wildlife Information Rescue and Education Service

13 Aug

Hear about the activities of WIRES in promoting habitat protection, species recovery, research and community education - and the role of volunteers in the rescue, transport and immediate care of our native species.

Presenter: Elisa Beecham

Travel

5. Sri Lanka – Pearl of the Indian Ocean

27 Aug

Sri Lanka has developed its own unique culture, with a complex history that goes back thousands of years. A personal overview of Sri Lanka by an Aussie with a soft spot in his heart for this wonderful country.

Presenter: Garry Lowder

History

6. A history of antisemitism (Part 1)

10 Sep

This scourge is in the news today, but it has been around for a long time. We explore what shape it has taken over the centuries.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

History

7. A history of antisemitism (Part 2)

24 Sep

This scourge is in the news today, but it has been around for a long time. We explore what shape it has taken over the centuries.

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Environment Health

8. ‘Green’ your home and save money.

8 Oct

A ‘green’ home is a healthy home but not only will you be healthier, you’ll have more money to spend on ‘healthy’ activities.

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

History Australia

9. The Siege of Glenrowan - Ned Kelly’s last stand

22 Oct

Hear a reconstruction of the meteorological conditions on 28 June 1880 to speculate about the weather on the day of Ned Kelly’s last stand. Also the pursuit of the Kelly Gang, the siege, his later execution, the efforts to locate and identify his body, and his 2013 burial.

Presenter: Dick Whittaker

History USA

10. “And still I rise”: Maya Angelou’s legacy

5 Nov

The Pulitzer Prize-nominated Afro-American poet, playwright, and activist, Angelou, had a significant impact on literature and civil rights, and received international acclaim for her candid exploration of racism, trauma, and identity in the American South.

Presenter: Linda Gibson-Langford

Science Ethics

11. From Mendel to meddling- a cautionary tale

19 Nov

Genes can be changed in the laboratory to alter plants, animals and people. What are the risks and who should control this?

Presenter: Dr Judy Ford

Spanish

INTERMEDIATE SPANISH CONVERSATION

Weekly on Thursday from 2 Jul 10:30 to 12:00

Relaxed conversations covering a range of topics. Friendly and supportive. Occasional structured content-intermediate level.

Leader: Marta Beatriz Moreno

Bookings: Ian Finck ifin55@gmail.com 0405 499 515

ZOOM COURSES

Current Affairs

YOU NEED NOT AGREE

Every Monday from 6 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

A group discussion of topical, local, national, international or general matters, where all opinions are welcome.

Leader and Bookings: Kevin Murray kevandglenny@gmail.com

Current Affairs

CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12)

Every Monday from 6 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Join us for a friendly and respectful discussion on current affairs, local and international. The group is confined to 12 people so that everyone has a chance to participate in the discussion. Every third month we meet for lunch (optional).

Leader: John Brockman

Bookings: Sara Graham s.dk.graham@gmail.com 0410 860 776

Italian

INTERMEDIATE ITALIAN (max 20)

Every Friday from 3 Jul 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

Language Russian

RUSSIAN ADVANCED CONVERSATION

Alternate Mondays from 6 Jul 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: Paul Gilchrist paulmgilchrist@gmail.com 0433 821 822

Crosswords

MASTERING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 14)

First Monday of the month from 6 Jul 14:00 to 16:00

Guided practice sessions for members who have already participated in Cracking Cryptic Crosswords or who have other relevant experience.

Leader: Ron Shapiro

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

Book Group

SLOW READING GROUP **NEW**

Every Second Monday from 6 Jul 15:00 to 17:00 Each fortnight we will read a chapter of the novel Voss by Patrick White, do some rabbit hole research and meet to discuss. Guidelines for each session will be provided.

Leader and Bookings: Gavin Crawford gavinhamiltoncrawford@gmail.com 0452 473 989

Language Latin LATIN FOR BEGINNERS

Alternate Tuesdays from 7 Jul 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.

Leader and Bookings: Peter Moore plusph@gmail.com 0438 808 336

Discussion Group Movies

FILM DISCUSSION GROUP (max 9)

Alternate Wednesdays from 8 Jul 13:00 to 15:30

Join a fun, friendly and stimulating Zoom discussion about two films at every meeting. Two films from SBS on Demand, ABC Iview and 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

Music

MUSIC WE GREW UP WITH

Alternate Thursdays from 9 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

MWGUW is in its 12th consecutive year with more music delivered via audio-video compilations. This semester you can expect music from the “good ol’ days” with a range of artists to be included.

Leader and Bookings: Howard Ferrer howferr@gmail.com

Discussion Group Current Affairs

CURRENT AFFAIRS (max 12)

Every Second Thursday from 9 Jul 16:00 to 18:00

Join us for a friendly and respectful discussion on current affairs, local and international. The group is confined to 12 people so that everyone has a chance to participate in the discussion. Every third month we meet for lunch (optional).

Leader and Bookings: Sara Graham s.dk.graham@gmail.com 0410 860 776

Photography

CREATIVE PHOTOGRAPHY (max 24)

Alternate Fridays from 10 Jul 10:00 to 12:00

Regular photo assignments to be taken in your own time, plus occasional photoshoot outings to local locations. Feedback via regular Zoom sessions, with some 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 14 Jul 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

ZOOM COURSES

Creative Writing Language

OUR WORDS (max 10)

First and Third Monday from 20 Jul 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. Please contact Leader to book.

Leader and Bookings: Ann Orel annorel@hotmail.com

Mandarin

MANDARIN Class 1 (max 12)

Every second Monday from 20 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (HSK1 - can understand and use simple words and phrases) This continuing course is intended for Sydney u3a members who want to learn Mandarin by means of learning Chinese characters and sentences using Pinyin.

Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com

Mandarin

MANDARIN Class 2/3 (max 12)

Every second Monday from 27 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (HSK 2/3 - can communicate simply and directly on daily topics you are familiar with/can conduct basic communication in daily life, study and work) This continuing course is intended for people who want to learn Mandarin by means of learning Chinese characters and sentences using Pinyin.

Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com

Mandarin

MANDARIN Class 4 (max 12)

Every second Monday from 27 Jul 10:00 to 12:00 (HSK 4 can discuss a relatively wide range of topics in Chinese and can communicate with native Chinese speakers fluently in common situations) This continuing course is intended for people who want to learn Mandarin by means of learning Chinese characters and sentences using Pinyin.

Leader and Bookings: Stanley Yan stanyan100@hotmail.com

Mandarin

MANDARIN P.I.E.S. (Practice in Everyday Speaking) (max 15)

Every Friday from 24 July 13:00 to 15:00 (PASS Group - emphasis on Pronunciation and Sentence Structure)

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

Mandarin

MANDARIN P.I.E.S. (Practice in Everyday Speaking) (max 15)

Every Friday from 24 July 13:00 to 15:00 (中文Group - can discuss a relatively wide range of topics in Chinese and can communicate with Native Chinese speakers fluently in common situations)

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

Famous People Music History

THE GOLDEN YEARS OF POP MUSIC (max 40)

Alternate Mondays from 20 Jul 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 Language POST-INTERMEDIATE SPANISH (max 14)

Every Monday from 3 Aug 14:00 to 16:00

Not public holidays, not school holidays. Ongoing course. Focuses on communication skills, together with grammar and Spanish speaking cultures study. For people with three years of Spanish studies or equivalent. Newcomers, please contact the course leader for details.

Leader and Bookings: Alexis Tabensky alexistabensky7@gmail.com

GREAT MOMENTS IN SCIENCE AND TOPICS FOR THE MIND

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

Hosted by Ian Thompson

Leader and Bookings: David Malone dymalone@bigpond.net.au 0418 440 828

Physics

1. End of certainty - the decade that invented physics 5 Aug

Bookended by the two relativity theories, the decade from 1905 to 1915 revolutionised our thinking about time, space and the fundamental structures of matter.

Presenter: Dr Laurie Wilson

Biology

2. The theory of biological evolution by natural selection 19 Aug

In this highly illustrated talk, Kevin Murray presents the wealth of evidence that supports the paradigm shifting theory that neatly explains the relationship between all living things.

Presenter: Kevin Murray

ZOOM COURSES

Science

3. A nod towards women in science - antiquity to now 2 Sep

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

Politics Famous People

4. Prime Minister lost - the Harold Holt tragedy 16 Sep

In December 1967 the PM of Australia, Harold Holt, went missing in heavy surf off Cheviot Beach in Victoria. We look at the weather prior to this event, the conditions of the day and the social and political fallout.

Presenter: Richard Whitaker

Technology Environment

5. Generating electricity - the technologies available today

30 Sep

Beside wind and solar, what other technologies exist to generate electricity?

Presenter: Peter Nixon

Geology Science

6. The history, science and use of clay 14 Oct

This comprehensive talk covers the many uses we have had for clay over millennia and still today. It is a remarkable, natural material.

Presenter: David Malone

Food History

7. Race to the South Pole - the role of food 28 Oct

Hoosh, dogs and seal meat - this presentation compares the fates of two teams, British and Norwegian, competing for the same prize at the same time and the role food played in the race to the South Pole.

Presenter: Diana Noyce

Climate

8. Climate change and the Paris Agreement 11 Nov

The Paris Agreement was adopted on the 12th December, 2015. We look at climate change 10 years after the Paris Agreement.

Presenter: Andrew Holt

Science Climate

9. The sun - giver of life

25 Nov

The sun is a giant ball of ionised gas called plasma - it is our life and provides us with food via photosynthesis, gives us light, heat and power via solar radiation.

Presenter: Das Dassanayake

Crosswords

CRACKING CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS (max 15)

Four Mondays from 10 Aug 14:00 to 16:00

Get into the mind of cryptic crossword compilers and learn how to solve their devious clues. Have fun while keeping your brain active. Leader: Ron Shapiro

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

Travel

TRAVELLERS ON ZOOM (max 25)

Second Thursday of the month from 13 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 0481 835 009

TRAVEL AND HISTORY (max 97)

Fourth Tuesday from 25 Aug 14:00 to 16:00

Leader and Bookings: Karen Paterson karenpaterson@optusnet.com.au 0419 259 387

Travel

1. England and Switzerland (max 97)

25 Aug

Two very old civilisations steeped in history and beauty. Travel in England and Switzerland is awe-inspiring.

Presenter: J. Greenwell

Travel

2. Trans Siberian Railways (max 97)

22 Sep

Trans-Siberian Railway - imagine crossing the world’s largest country by rail — a remarkable two-month journey from Vladivostok on the Pacific coast all the way to St Petersburg on the Baltic. The Trans-Siberian Railway isn’t just a trip; it’s an epic passage through vast landscapes, ancient cultures, and the true heart of Russia.

Presenter: V. Liondas

Travel

3. Paris and Brilliant Bordeaux (max 97)

27 Oct

Paris and Brilliant Bordeaux – Our adventure starts in Paris, a city that captures the heart every time. And from there, the journey only becomes richer as we sail into the Bordeaux region for a 10-day cruise filled with gourmet flavours, historic towns, and the very best of French river life.

Presenter: K. Patterson

Travel

4. Antarctica (max 97)

24 Nov

The Antarctic is a vast wilderness, where rugged terrain, snow, ice and the sea collides with diverse, thriving wildlife. A place of awe-inspiring beauty and serenity. Come on a journey with Cherie while she shares her trip to cross the Antarctic Circle.

Presenter: C. Clover

COURSE INDEX

A

Actors Australia 41

Architecture 12, 18

Archaeology 22

Art 14, 15, 17, 18, 22, 29, 36, 39

Appreciation 22, 24

Craft 23, 30

Drawing Painting 41

Galleries Art Appreciation 11

Mathematics 38

Painting 40, 42, 49

Astronomy 14, 47

Australia

Famous People 47 History 32

Inventions 34

B Biology 56

Birdwatching Nature 52

Book Group 12, 13, 15, 17, 19, 24, 27, 35, 46, 48, 50, 55

Discussion Group 45

Literature 38

Bowls 38

Bridge 51

Britain Literature 52

Broadcasting 29, 50

C

Calligraphy 26

Cards Canasta 44

Cinema 17, 20, 21, 22, 31, 52

Discussion Group Movies 11

Movies 12, 16, 45

Climate 57

Conservation 18

Environment 14

Craft 39

Creative Writing 24, 38, 51

Language 56

Crime

History 44 Literature 42

Croquet 24, 30

Games 44

Crosswords 14, 54, 55, 57

Culture 37

Current Affairs 11, 17, 19, 32, 33, 41, 55

Discussion Group 45

Famous People 33 History 34

Legal 33, 36

Philosophy 41

D

Dance 10, 22, 27, 46, 48, 49, 52

Danger 34

Death 12

Disasters 47, 50

Discussion Group 10, 16, 20, 23, 28, 30, 31

Current Affairs 25, 52, 53, 55

Movies 41, 55

Podcasting 22

Drama 18, 42

Drawing 22

E

Eating Out 27

Economics Investment 10

Energy History 45

Environment Health 54

Europe Current Affairs 43

Evolution

Famous People Science 35

Human Body 35

Exercise 44

F

Famous People 12, 13, 34, 48, 50, 52

Australia 47

History Australia 13

Music 31

Music History 56

Food History 33, 57

Politics 39

French 11, 19

Language 50

G

Games 21, 25, 53

Bridge 10, 42, 44

Canasta 53

Canasta Mah Jong 27

Cards 44

Famous People 37

Mah Jong 44

Mahjong 51

Pétanque 15

Pickleball 47

Genealogy 13, 20, 26

Geography 13

Geology Science 38, 57

Government Services 18

H

Health 12, 26, 29, 35, 38, 39, 44, 48

Death 37

Human Body 32

Medical Matters 52

Performance 52

Psychology 31

Sociology Culture 13

History 18, 21, 26, 27, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 43, 54

Ancient 18, 21

Australia 14, 18, 23, 24, 29, 31, 32, 34, 37, 39, 43, 48, 54

Australia Famous People 12

Australia Local 52

Australia Maritime 12, 41

Britain 36

British Military 36 China 36

Current Affairs 31

Death 48

Education 35, 54

Famous People Science 31

Food 29, 43

Genealogy 25

Iran 48

Ireland Australia 37

Literature 38, 47

Maritime 21, 37, 48

Music 21

Russian 30

Science 30

Sociology 35

USA 31, 32, 54

Human Body 30, 36

Science 37, 54

IIndigenous Australians 12

International Relations 47

Internet 12

Technology 41

Investment 13

Money 34, 36, 38 Iran History 52

Ireland History 26

Italian 55

Language 49

J Japan 43

Travel 44

L

Language

French 16, 40, 41, 42, 51

German 50, 53

Italian 22

Japanese 11, 13

Latin 40, 50, 55

Mandarin 11, 49 Russian 55

Spanish 50

Legal 14, 17, 18, 21, 23, 27, 34, 43, 48, 52

Australia 47

Broadcasting 43

Indigenous Australians 50 Literature 18, 21

Australia 38

History Australia 50 Local History 52

M

Mah Jong 46

Mandarin 56

Marine Wildlife 45

Mathematics 17

Medical Matters 39, 45

Agriculture 45

Health 48

Legal 29, 32, 35

Technology 34, 45

Movies 10, 26

Music 14, 19, 20, 27, 29, 35, 44, 55

Appreciation 21, 43, 46

Famous People 32, 34

Guitar 40

History 34

Human Body 47

Opera 26

Performance 40

Recorder 11, 31, 32, 42, 49

Singing 41 Theatre 29, 36 Travel 13, 14 Ukulele 14, 40, 51

N Nature 17

O

Outdoor Outings 26

Outdoors

Eating Out 15, 23, 24, 38

Walking 26

Walks 50

P

Philosophy 14, 15, 28, 40, 49

Photography 12, 55

History 45

Physics 45, 56

Poetry 21, 51

Politics 17, 18

Famous People 57

Psychology

Sociology 37

Q

Qigong 10

R

Relaxation Exercise 10

S Science 27, 29, 32, 34, 36, 37, 38, 43, 52, 57

Climate 57

Environment 32, 34

Ethics 54

Famous People 29

Food 44, 48

Geology 33

Health 30

Nature 38

Technology 31

Scrabble 13

Sculpture 12

Sketching

Urban Sketching 22

Sociology 48

Current Affairs 37

History 11

Science 35

Space 18

Spanish 54

Language 42, 49, 55, 56

Storytelling 12, 39

T

Table Tennis 42

Tai Chi 15, 25, 48, 49

Qigong 10, 42

Technology 18, 20, 26, 31, 47

Environment 57

History 27

Theatre 26

Australia 43, 44

Transport Energy 45

History 43

Travel 11, 12, 20, 47, 54, 57 Trivia 44

Games 20

U Ukulele Music 40

W

Walking 15, 23

War 12, 13

Wildlife 21, 54

Writing 13, 33, 37

Y Yoga 41, 42

Z

Zoology 14

SUBURBS INDEX

2026 CALENDAR

NOTES

NOTES

Inside back coverremains blank

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.