U3A is an organisation for retirees or semi-retirees to stay active, connect with others and continue to learn new knowledge and skills.
U3A enrolment day
When: Tuesday, February 6, from 10am to noon.
Where: Goulburn Valley U3A, 14 Esson St, Shepparton.
What: Information session for prospective members with an opportunity to talk to group leaders.
Enrolment cost: $60 annual membership fee, which covers the majority of U3A groups and classes.
Denise Leffler had been a member of U3A for about 15 years before her husband, Peter Leffler, joined her as a member following his retirement only a few years ago.
Mr Leffler was recently recognised as Senior Citizen of the Year at the 2024 Shepparton Citizenship Awards on Thursday, January 25, for more than 50 years of medical service in Shepparton as both a volunteer and GP.
“I just never had time before when I was working,” Mr Leffler said.
“And the classes and activities I wanted to do would be on the days I’m busy.
“But now I’m retired, so I’ve gotten right into it.”
Mrs Leffler said U3A was great for retired people to stay active and meet new people, with various classes on offer.
“A lot of very knowledgable and passionate people donate their time to educate you on all sorts of different topics,” she said.
“And if you have a passion or specific knowledge or something, you can share it and lead a class.
“You just learn a lot and get to do many different things.”
The pair engage in a variety of activities, from learning French to creative writing, playing cards, bird watching and more.
Mrs Leffler said her highlight was the walking group, which had been on fabulous trails from Rushworth to Kyabram to Bright.
Of course, many more activities and classes are on offer; those are just some of Mrs Leffler’s favourites.
U3A classes and groups
Singing
Birdwatching
Arts and crafts
Photography
Computers
Foodies
Science
Cards
Strength and balance
Literature
Philosophy
Trivia
History
Tai Chi
Crossword
Yoga
Language
And more
Mrs Leffler also said the group was fortunate to have a home base on Esson St, with many other U3As across Victoria forced to meet and book various places for their sessions.
U3A secretary Liz Lee invited anyone interested to visit the U3A headquarters on 14 Esson St, Shepparton, from 10am to noon on Tuesday.
She said there was no need to RSVP and that it was an opportunity to mingle and chat with some group leaders, with no commitment to join required.
Refreshments will be available on the day.
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