So you’ve decided it’s time to leave the rat race of the business world but you’re not quite ready to give up the social and intellectual stimulation.
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It’s a dilemma faced by many people, like Charlie Faulkner and Gavan Bethke, who both moved to Gloucester after leaving full-time work in the city.
Neither of them knew anything about the University of the Third Age (better know as U3A) when they stumbled across the Gloucester branch of the worldwide organisation.
Gloucester U3A offers courses each term, following the school calendar, which covers off one range of activities from indoor bowls to mediation. The courses are designed around what the members are willing to teach based on knowledge from their working lives or interests they have developed outside of work.
Charlie, who has recently been named the president, joined U3A with his wife pretty soon after moving to Gloucester about four years ago. They attend as many activities as they can ensuring they stay socially and physically active as well as meeting new people and maintaining friendships.
As president, Charlie hopes to help the group increase its membership, which currently sits at around 180.
“I want to share with other people the pleasure I get out of it,” he said.
Gavan, who moved to Gloucester about two and half years ago, also joined U3A shortly after arriving and has recently been named the vice president. He hopes to elevate U3A’s profile in town and let people know about what the group has on offer.
“It’s about getting people involved,” Gavan said.
Gavan not only participates in the activities but also teaches a mindfulness course, a topic he’s very passionate about.
“You cannot only take learning from others but you can give it back.”
They describe U3A as a place to meet and spend time with like-minded people, where you can learn about history, travel, ethics, stay fit and play games like mahjong. Each term provides a broad spectrum of activities ranging from the physical to the intellectual. Activities run throughout the day from Monday to Thursday at various locations including the Gloucester Senior Citizens Centre, Barrington Hall, the Uniting Church and even in the great outdoors. Membership is $25 per year with a $2 per session fee paid for each activity you join.
For more information email secretary@gloucester.u3anet.org.au or visit: http://gloucester.u3anet.org.au/. Members are mainly retired or semi-retired with a recommended age-requirement of 50 years plus.