The annual general meeting of Gloucester and District University of the Third Age (U3A) was held on Friday, March 23 in the Uniting Church Hall.
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Before the business of the AGM, the meeting was privileged to hear from the guest speaker, Gloucester veterinarian Arthur Poynting.
Arthur reminded his audience that he would retire in three days’ time but he and his wife would continue to be local residents.
He captivated the audience with many interesting and often amusing, reminiscences of his 43 years as ‘The Gloucester Vet’ Since coming to Gloucester immediately after qualifying, he has seen many changes in the area and in the way in which veterinary science is practiced.
When Arthur arrived in Gloucester there were over 300 dairy farms in the area. Now there are ten but they are very much larger and produce the same amount of milk as did the 300! Arthur recounted several hair-raising experiences during his career especially while treating large animals, often in remote parts of the district. He commented that when he qualified 70% of the graduates were male and only 30% female, today 70% are female and 30% male!
President Penny Vavasour thanked Arthur for his fascinating talk and he received a resounding round of applause from the audience.
The ‘business’ part of the meeting heard reports from the officers.
Lyn Stewart, standing in for The President, Penny Vavasour read the President’s report. The President reminded members that the Gloucester U3A is in its tenth year and that it is flourishing as never before for the enjoyment, health, well-being and education of all members. She went on to thank by name all the office holders and many other members who take on essential support roles that enable the group to function so efficiently.
Treasurer,Synthia Elks presented the financial report for 2017 which showed a healthy situation with a comfortable reserve carried forward to 2018.
In Susan Dixon’s unavoidable absence, her Programming Report was tabled. Susan highlighted the fact that the Group offers around 25 courses each term covering a balance of physical activity, health and well-being, crafts, intellectual pursuits and general interest subjects. She went on to emphasise the valuable social contact that these classes generate, especially for newcomers to Gloucester and for those who are living on their own. Susan thanked all the members who act as tutors, course facilitators and course clerks ensuring that the programmes run smoothly behind the scenes.
Membership Registrar, Clare Frew reported 17 new members for Term 1 of 2018. Allowing for a certain amount of movement by previous members there were 171 fully paid members at the time of the AGM.
The New Committee for 2018/19 was elected: President (CasualVacancy); Vice-President Penny Vavasour; Secretary Cecily Mahony; Treasurer Synthia Elks; Programming Susan Dixon; Enrolment Frances Writer; Members Without Portfolio Penelope Charles and Pam Judd.