It’s a new age of cooperation

By Nathan Johnston
THE University of the Third Age (U3A) Dandenong branch has sorted out its differences with the City of Greater Dandenong and is moving towards establishing more permanent bases for its classes.
U3A Dandenong publicity officer Bill Cooney said the organisation was initially concerned it would be without venues for some of its classes due to works at Dandenong’s Chisholm Institute and community facilities in Noble Park.
But he said these concerns had been allayed following successful negotiations with council staff.
“We’ve got all the locations worked out,” Mr Cooney said.
“Although we haven’t been able to secure any funding from the council, they are looking after us in terms of our accommodation.”
Mr Cooney said classes would be spread out across various locations at or adjacent to senior citizens facilities in Dandenong, Dandenong North and at Noble Park.
“The activities that were based at Noble Park under our umbrella will be located at the new Noble Park Community Centre when it’s complete,” he said. The various locations had caused minor confusion among students.
“There were a few initial difficulties, but all in all U3A is going along fine,” he said.
Council officer Linda McCann said the locations would help U3A maintain a presence across the municipality.
“It’s important that these services are spread out to ensure that they are easily accessible to as many people as possible,” she said. “U3A is growing at a fast rate. The courses are appealing to a lot of people and it’s also important for U3A members to pass on some of their own life skills.”
As a gesture of goodwill between the council and U3A Dandenong, mayor Maria Sampey was the guest speaker at the branch’s annual general meeting on Tuesday. The meeting was held during the U3A Dandenong Annual Art and Craft Show at the Robin McKay Hall, Cleeland Street, Dandenong, at the rear of Chisholm TAFE.
The exhibition continues this week and includes examples of the work of U3A members from a variety of different courses, including painting, drawing, photography, embroidery, papercraft and calligraphy.
Mr Cooney said U3A was committed to attracting more members in the next 12 months.
“Dandenong U3A has around 430 members who enrich their lives by participating in the various classes and activities provided,” he said.
“We’re always looking for new members. It costs just $20 a year, and all of the courses are free.”