The meeting marked 30 years since U3A Benalla Inc commenced in Benalla on April 24, 1996.
A U3A spokesperson said Carmyl Winkler, a member of the current Memoir Writing group, read the history she had compiled from various records, which had been kept by the committee over the years.
“In 1996 U3A Benalla had four groups: Art Appreciation, a history group, a book group and a south-east Asian history group. It had just 24 members,” the spokesperson said.
“By 1997 there were 30 financial members, with a computer group, a bushwalking group and an investment group being added to the courses available.”
Its membership then increased each year, with more groups being added.
“Some of the early U3A members attended the function (Meet and Mingle), including Shirley Kearney and Margaret Walshe, both of whom are still members,” the spokesperson said.
“Shirley talked about the fact that every member went to every group in the early days because the numbers of members were so small.
“Margaret Walshe and Joyce Borschmann started the singing group after a walk around the lake, in 2006.
“John Avery was president of U3A Benalla for seven years from 2005 to 2011, and the number of groups increased substantially in this time.
“John also actively sought grants so that the annual fee could remain at $30.”
Most of the early groups met in W4, which was part of the old Benalla High School in Barkly St.
The move to the Benalla Seniors Citizens’ Centre in Fawckner Dve as the main meeting venue occurred in 2016.
This venue was renamed the Benalla Seniors and Community Centre in 2024 to include all groups using the centre, including U3A Benalla.
The Committee of U3A Benalla Inc has produced a booklet recording the 30-year history.
This booklet was given to those who attended the 30-year celebration.
After the presentation of the history, there was a lot of discussion over a cup of tea and coffee, and numerous cakes and slices that had been made for the occasion.
Currently, U3A Benalla Inc has 454 members and is offering a range of 48 courses for their members.
More information can be obtained from president Anne Nelson on 0438 447 379.
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