issue no. 241 august september 2012 · issue no. 241 august ... charlotte is a senior curator and...

Publication generously supported by Mr Adam Bandt, Federal MP for Melbourne

Issue No. 241 August–September 2012

U3A Melbourne City Inc. A University of the Third Age. Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 3000. Ph: (03) 9639 5209 Email: [email protected] Web: www.u3amelbcity.org.au

HIGHLIGHTS THIS ISSUE: WINTER LUNCH; NEW LOGO DECISION; CARNIVAL AMBASSADORS WANTED; MAUREEN BUGDEN

OAM; VIDEO FILMING UNDERWAY; NEW – LD MOVIES AND LD GALLERIES; MEET FRAN SCIARRETTA; WHY FACEBOOK?

COME ALONG TO OUR LUNCHTIME FORUMS in August & September

Listen, ask questions, then stay for tea. Non-members welcome. Cost: just $2 on entry. Venue: Multicultural Hub, 506 Elizabeth Street (opp. Victoria Market). Arranged by Forums Coordinator Necia Burford.

Dr Charlotte Smith

A ‘LOAD OF OLD RUBBISH’ – organising and displaying collections at the Melbourne Museum.

Speaker: Dr Charlotte Smith

When: Thurs 16 August, 1.00–2.00pm Afternoon Tea: 2.00–2.30pm

Booking essential: Phone U3A office 9639 5209 by 3pm, Monday 13 August.

Charlotte is a senior curator and historian with over 15 years’ experience working in museums and universities in England and Australia. She has curated much of Museum Victoria’s immense collection showing the history and archaeology of early inner-city Melbourne. Charlotte’s work enhances our understanding of social, cultural and political change in Australia.

Najaf and Robert

AN ASYLUM SEEKER’S TALE

Speakers: Robert Hillman & Najaf Mazari, co-authors of The Rugmaker of

Mazar-e-Sharif and The Honey Thief

When: Thurs 20 Sept, 1.00–2.00pm Afternoon Tea: 2.00–2.30pm

Booking essential: Phone U3A office 9639 5209 by 3pm, Mon. 17 September.

Najaf, who now runs the Prahran Rug Store, astonished novelist Robert Hillman with his story of danger and escape from Afghanistan in 2001. They have now collaborated on two books. Najif is deeply involved in creating a better climate for asylum-seekers in Australia and in charity activities helping some of the poorest villages in his homeland.

GOING FOR GOLD ? – YOU MAY HAVE TO COMP ETE TO GET THERE!

Friday 31 August, 12 noon William Angliss Restaurant 550 Little Collins Street

Cost: $35

BOOKING DETAILS INSIDE

Last year’s Lunch was booked out. Don’t miss out this August.

Organised by Shirley Mason and her Social Events Team.

Yes, there’s an Olympic note to this year’s Winter Lunch!

The theme is ‘Going for Gold’ and you are urged to enter into the spirit of the occasion. Bring out your bling – wear your finest gold jewellery. Or even more audaciously – wear a golden dress, blouse, tie, hat or even lipstick!

Bring some small coins so you can try to win the magnificent Golden Raffle Basket.

‘Gold’ Medals will be awarded in several categories including Best Bling, Gold Fever and Bravest Bling – this one perhaps for the men?

As you arrive, mingle and enjoy a specially created cocktail or non-alcoholic mocktail and canapés before the two course meal – all to the background of ‘Golden Oldies’ music. After lunch, guest speaker Mr Perry Hannah, an Elsternwick jeweller, will talk about . . . Yes! – GOLD. Perry will not be able to value your crown jewels on the day, but time permitting, he will answer other questions after his talk.

Seating will be at tables of ten and you’re welcome to bring a guest. This year there will be a seating plan so groups can ask to sit together. However, to preserve the sanity of your Social Events Team, no shuffling about on the day will be allowed!

Shirley Mason, Social Events Coordinator

Learning for life

ABN 84932435817

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/

City News, the newsletter of U3A Melbourne City August–September 2012

2

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: focusing on members – and non-members too

Jill

Committee members will soon be undertaking a course in public speaking provided by Max Warlond, to equip them for making presentations about our U3A to other organisations. If you could recommend a group that might welcome a U3A speaker, email or leave a note at the office, with ‘SPEAKERS’ in the subject line.

Dear All

As you can see, your committee has been very busy. I hope through the short synopsis in each newsletter you feel more informed about and connected with the issues that affect us all.

Max Warlond and I have started running Focus Groups. The first three have been with members, and we are asking younger members (the Baby Boomers) to participate. There have been some interesting insights, and certainly some lively discussions. I think most participants actually enjoyed the process, and I’d like to thank them all for their time and their ideas. Now we want you to think of other groups or organisations you belong to and maybe suggest which of them we could contact. I think the views of people who do not belong to U3A are important.

I want to thank Shirley Mason and her ever-growing team for the great job they are doing. The ‘Let’s Do’ concept has exploded, with Music, Lunch and Movies, and now Galleries! It is good to see how popular these are – because we know that the name ‘Universities of the Third Age’ doesn’t really convey this important social aspect of U3A. Feedback tells me too that Forums (which are open to the public) are a gentle way in which people can ‘get to know’ us and decide if they want to become members.

And the membership has grown by 8.6% in the past 12 months. That is really healthy! I look forward to meeting new members at the Welcome morning tea soon!

Best wishes

Jill Thompson, President

COMMITTEE.COM: DECISIONS AND DATA

2012 Committee Members

Jill Thompson President Keith Bettles Vice President Carolyne Cohn Secretary David Watson Treasurer

Michael Baker, George Boag, Necia Burford, Jack Foks, Shirley Mason, Tony Miles, Julie Nankervis, Anne Riddell, Fran Sciarretta, Max Warlond.

See your committee on the website in ‘About Us’.

Sorry this is so small. Online readers can increase the screen size for a better view.

What happened at the last committee meeting on 27 June 2012

Fee increase for next year. At the 2011 Annual General Meeting members voted to authorise the committee to increase the membership fee for 2013 if deemed necessary. At our June meeting, in anticipation of continuing growth in rental and other costs, we passed a motion ‘that the 2013 annual membership fee be increased to $50’. A five dollar rise is less than ten cents a week. We hope everyone will agree that $50 is still exceptional value for the extensive range of free courses and low-cost social activities on offer throughout the year.

Grant submissions. Helena Ling and Carolyne Cohn prepared and delivered two applications for City of Melbourne grants totalling $4000. If successful, the money would help to purchase course materials and minor equipment for tutors, plus other organisational expenses; and support higher cost room hire for classes needing specialised audio-visual or other equipment.

Ross House building appeal. In light of the exceptional services and affordability provided to our U3A by the Ross House Association, we agreed that a donation should be made to the current appeal which seeks to repair and improve the fabric of the ageing heritage building. After discussing what would constitute an appropriate amount, we passed the motion ‘that U3A Melbourne City make a donation of $2000 to the Ross House Building Appeal’. Treasurer David Watson has since attended to this and received a message of thanks from Ross House.

U3A standard logo. Jill explained that U3A Network Victoria (which represents U3As in dealings with State government and other relevant bodies) has recommended that all Victorian U3As should use the international logo as part of a common branding campaign. We agreed that having a standard common logo would help public recognition of the U3A movement. The downside is a lack of individual identity – and we are very fond of our distinctive ‘City’ logo. However, by a small majority, a motion was passed to adopt the Network recommendation and use the international symbol on our letterhead and most communications. So you may notice some changes gradually being introduced in the coming months.

Tidbits from the database

Our current membership is 985, which is 8.6% more than this time last year. At 76%, women still predominate. Out of the total, 8% are registered as tutors and 15% as other volunteers (office and admin staff, coordinators and teams, committee members and working group participants etc.). Members with email represent 76%. Agewise, 2% are between 50 and 55; 25% between 56 and 65; 43% between 66 and 75; 22% between 76 and 85; 5% between 86 and 95; while 4% did not state their age.

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/committee


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SENIORS WEEK PROMOTI ON – COULD YOU BE AN AMBASSADOR?

PLEASE HELP TO PROMOTE OUR U3A AT FED SQUARE ON

SUNDAY 7 OCTOBER!

JUST TWO HOURS OF YOUR TIME!

Seniors Week Victoria this year will run from 7 to 13 October. And it all starts with a bang on Sunday the 7th with the U3A Carnival of Learning in Federation Square, supported by the State government and City of Melbourne. Many U3As will be there, from all over Melbourne and elsewhere in Victoria, each hoping to attract new members. Once again we will be among them.

As always, our main aim is to encourage like-minded seniors – and particularly those who live within the City municipality – to become members of U3A Melbourne City. We want to tell them how joining can open their minds to a world of learning and personal development, as well as social involvement, new friends and lots of fun. We should also remind them of the health benefits of learning new things as we age.

We are seeking up to 20 friendly and involved members to be our ambassadors on this day. We want people who can enthusiastically talk about our course programs, social activities and volunteering. There will be plenty of support from committee and other knowledgeable U3A City volunteers to answer any sticky questions.

Ambassadors will be asked to work in these three time slots: [10.30am to 12.30pm] [12.30 to 2.30pm] [2.30 to 4pm]. If you can help, please email or send a note to the office with CARNIVAL in the subject line, by FRIDAY 24 AUGUST. Include your ID number, contact details and your choice of time slot, and our experienced Carnival Coordinator Anne Irwin will contact you with more information. Anne will also provide a briefing session for all ambassadors before the event.

QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOUR FOR MAUREEN . . . OAM

Maureen at the Shrine of Remembrance.

(Photo by Moorabbin Leader newspaper).

Interview by Anne Riddell.

Maureen Bugden isn’t sure when she first joined U3A Melbourne City, but our records show it was 1993 or even earlier – and she’s been an enthusiastic member ever since. Learning and speaking Italian and French have been her main interests. But through the years Maureen’s greatest passion has been her volunteering work at the Shrine of Remembrance, where she’s been guiding visitors for 23 years. She sells Legacy and Anzac Day badges, plus poppies for Remembrance Day, inspired by her father and brother, both war veterans. She is also a stamp collection coordinator for Legacy.

Now all that dedication and hard work has been recognised and rewarded with a Medal of the Order of Australia in the

2012 Queen’s Birthday Honours List, announced in June. Presentation of the medal at Government House Victoria won’t take place until September or October, but Maureen has been told she should now add the letters OAM to her name. ‘But that would feel a bit pretentious,’ says Maureen, who was surprised when she opened the Governor-General’s letter telling her of the award. As well as being modest, she’s also a little nervous about the presentation ceremony. We don’t think she should be. At 84 and after all those years of volunteering – and her U3A learning activities – Maureen is a prime example of positive ageing and is sure to carry off the occasion with her customary confidence and panache.

OUR PROMOTIONAL VIDE O – filming has begun

The RMIT team of student film-makers, Hashim, Sheralyn and Herald.

The student team has been filming a selection of classes and social events so they can portray the diversity of activities open to U3A members. As you can imagine, the students will film much more footage than will be used in the final video, which will be just five minutes long. If you are in one of the groups to be filmed, I am sure you will be happy to help your U3A, recognising the value of the project and its contribution to our promotional efforts. Attracting new members is important as this is where our volunteers come from.

This is now our fifth student project. These projects give final year students experience in working with real clients on real projects. In return we get vital work done that we can't do ourselves or pay to have done.

Helena Ling, Project Coordinator


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THE MULTICULTURAL CO OKBOOK PROJECT – more recipes wanted

Bev Paterson and Mia Costin need your help to get this book ready by Seniors Week.

Please post or email your recipes to the office with COOKBOOK RECIPE in the subject line. Do include a little anecdote if possible – and don’t forget to add the country of origin.

‘LET’S DO LUNCH’ NEW S FOR AUGUST -SEPTEMBER Rosemary reports . . .

‘Twenty-one LD lunchers came to the Pope Joan restaurant in Brunswick in May. Most rated the food, service and value as very good. The June LD Lunch was at the new Sharing House restaurant at South Wharf. All enjoyed the delicious food, served in small dishes shared by three people. One member commented that it was the best lunch she’d been to.’ See Rosemary’s full report on the website Noticeboard.

The Let’s-Do lunches continue to be very popular and LDL members need to book promptly to be sure of a place. Coordinator Rosemary Ryall contacts her list of members direct about forthcoming lunches. But note that our Winter Lunch will replace the usual August LDL outing.

Satisfied LD lunchers at Pope Joan restaurant.

To be fully informed about LD lunches you need to register as an LDL member. Either email [email protected] with LET’S DO LUNCH in the subject line, or phone 9639 5209 and ask an office volunteer to pass your details (including U3A ID number) to Rosemary, who will then contact you.

No fighting over dishes at the Sharing House!

LET’S DO MUSIC IN AUGUST & SEPTEMBER – at the Recital Centre, Southbank Avenue Meet your fellow concert-goers for coffee and conversation at the Script Bar & Bistro at 5pm before the performance. Script is in the Melbourne Theatre Company building next door to the Melbourne Recital Centre (MRC).

You can email Merilyn at [email protected] – or ask the office to email her your phone number.

‘The only constant is change…’ (Isaac Asimov)

Please note: August 28 is a Tuesday and September 21 is a Friday. The concession cost for September has increased for that concert to $30. The Melbourne Recital Centre advises that prices are set by the artists. I am looking forward to travelling, via music, to both France and Argentina, and to meeting you there!

Merilyn Burt, LDMusic Coordinator

When/what/where? More info Paying and meeting

Tuesday 28 August, 6pm

CLASSICAL CONCERT

Destination France

The Salon, MRC

Ludovico's Band takes you to the dazzling and highly perfumed world of the court of Louis XIV, where prowess on the dance floor was as highly prized as the turn of a phrase or the thrust of a sword. This buoyant music will be an absolute toe tapper.

Cost: $35/$25 concession* (Health/Pension card only)

Book&Pay at U3A office by 2.30pm, Friday 17 August

Friday 21 September, 6pm

CLASSICAL CONCERT

The Seasons: The Argentinean Connection

The Salon, MRC

Pianist Andrea Katz, bass-baritone Nicholas Dinopolous and guests Ensemble Nonino take us on a journey with Astor Piazzolla, one of Buenos Aires’ most revered and reviled composers. We will follow him not only through the seasons, but also the streets, hours, and feelings of his favourite city.

Cost: $35/$30 concession* (Health/Pension card only)

Book&Pay at U3A office by 2.30pm, Friday 14 September

Meet: 5pm Script Bar & Bistro

Ludovico’s Band – one of Australia’s most dynamic baroque bands.

Songmakers Australia and Ensemble Nonino.

*Tickets will be held at the Box Office until performances. Proof of concession eligibility must be shown when picking up. For Recital Centre information about refunds and accessibility aids, see item on the website Noticeboard.

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/members_noticeboard




http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/NB_Recital_Centre


5

OUT AND ABOUT IN AUG UST AND SEPTEMBER – what to choose?

‘Book&Pay’ means no bookings without payment – and remember to give your ID No.


Thursday, 16 August 1:30pm

QUESTION TIME AT

PARLIAMENT HOUSE

Spring Street

Wheelchair friendly (by arrangement at Madam B’s)

A repeat of this extremely popular outing – experience the cut and thrust of Question Time in our State Parliament. You’ll be amazed!

Then why not partake of an optional tea at Madam Brussels café afterwards? – everything from a pot of tea to a jug of Pimms, with sandwiches, patés, cheeseboard and fab cupcakes.

Cost: Parliament entry free. Pay on the day for your choices at Madame Brussels.

Book: by Thursday 9 Aug. Phone bookings taken (with your ID No.)

Meet: 1:15pm on steps of Parliament House.

Thursday 30 August 3 – 7pm

MAGGIE T FASHION PARTY

Shop 29, Ground level, Collins Place, 45 Collins Street

Wheelchair friendly

After the resounding success of their trial promotional evening in May, Maggie T management are putting on another champagne party just for us. It’s free and there will be nibbles as well as bubbles. Discounts on fashion purchases as well as door prizes and lots of fun. Book now so you don’t miss out on this one!

Cost: Free

Book: AS SOON AS POSSIBLE – numbers are limited. Phone bookings taken (with your ID No.)

Arrive: Any time from 3pm up until 6pm.

Friday 31 August 12 – 2pm

OUR WINTER LUNCH William Angliss Restaurant 550 Little Collins Street Wheelchair friendly

FOR FULL DESCRIPTION, SEE FRONT PAGE ARTICLE.

Members who want to sit together – please arrange for one of you to make a group booking, i.e. provide ALL the names, ID numbers and phone numbers at once, PLUS FULL PAYMENT. This is the only way to make sure you will be placed together.

Cost: $35. Buy drinks at your table.

Book&Pay by Monday 20 August (with your ID No.)

Dietary requests: Please make these clear when you book.

Thursday 6 September 10–11:30am

TOUR OF THE ABC CENTRE

Corner Southbank Boulevard and Sturt Street, Southbank.

Wheelchair friendly

Take a tour inside the Melbourne home of our national broadcaster. See the news room and headquarters of Radio Australia and visit the ABC News Breakfast and 7pm News studio. Explore the radio studios where programs for triple j, ABC Radio National and ABC Classic FM are recorded. Don’t delay – there are only 15 places available.

Cost: $5.

Book&Pay by Monday 27 August (with your ID No.)

Meet: 9:45am at ABC entrance. Tram route 1, or park in Arts Centre or Ballet Centre car parks.

Friday 14 September 10–11:30am, approx.

TOUR OF AUSTRALIAN BALLET

SCHOOL AND TIME IN MOTION

EXHIBITION AT ARTS CENTRE.

Wheelchair friendly

If you love ballet, you’ll enjoy this tour of Australia's national centre for elite vocational classical dance, followed by a cup of tea while viewing a video of students in performance. Then a short walk to the Arts Centre to view at your leisure a marvellous exhibition celebrating 50 years of the Australian Ballet Company. Costumes, photos, film and more.

Cost: Free

Book by Friday 7 Sept. Phone bookings taken (with your ID No.)

Meet: 9:45am outside Ballet Centre, 2 Kavanagh St (immediately behind the Arts Centre).

Looking ahead

Shirley would welcome your advice.

Plans are afoot for revisiting the Royal Botanical Australian Garden at Cranbourne in October; and attending a performance of South Pacific the Musical in November.

Please take, send or email a note to the office with ‘FOR SHIRLEY MASON’ in the subject line if you would like her to make a group booking for either The Mousetrap (here for 6 weeks from late August) or Barassi the stage show (from September 20).


6

LET’S DO MOVIES IS U P AND RUNNING . . . put yourself on Mimi’s list

Showing at the Como

This is an informal social gathering for people who love movies and enjoy talking after the film with like-minded people. We meet, have a chat and choose a movie – generally there are three starting at 10.40, 11.00 and 11.10 respectively. Afterwards you are most welcome to stay on for a light lunch at nearby Café Fiori (same level as cinema).

To become an LD Movies group member, please email your contact details (including your U3A ID number) to the office with LET’S DO MOVIES in the subject line. Or telephone and ask a volunteer to pass on your details to me. After you have registered, simply arrive at the cinema at around 10.30 on any Tuesday morning that suits you.

Should you wish to drop out at any stage, please inform the office.

Mimi Millar, LD Movies Coordinator


Every Tuesday morning

Palace Como Cinema, corner Chapel and Toorak Roads, South Yarra.

Until our numbers build we can only see movies scheduled for public offer. The Como showcases mainly quality Art House Movies or the crème of mainstream cinema.

Cost: Movie $9.50, lunch $10 or so.

Pay: on the day

Meet: no later than 10.30 am in cinema lobby

AND NOW – LET’S DO GALLERIES! . . . we put you in the picture

Rosie & Jeanne

If you are interested, please email your contact details (including your U3A ID number) to the office with LET’S DO GALLERIES in the subject line. Or phone 9639 5209 and ask a volunteer to pass on your details. Rosie or Jeanne will then contact you with details of their first event.

Art lovers, and members with just a general interest in art, are invited to join a new group, Let’s Do Galleries, which will meet every month and visit one or more galleries within reach of public transport in the city or inner suburbs. There will also be occasional coach trips to galleries further afield such as the McClelland at Langwarrin, Heide at Bulleen and TarraWarra near Healesville. After viewing the exhibition we will visit a nearby cafe for tea and casual discussion about the exhibition just seen.

There’s no expectation that you need to ‘know’ anything about art. There will be no lectures, although occasionally a gallery owner may tell us a little about an exhibition. And everyone will be encouraged to contribute ideas about galleries to visit.

The first Let’s Do Galleries event will most likely be in Flinders Lane in the City on Wednesday 19 September at 2pm. In October we may go to the Ian Potter Museum of Art and the Percy Grainger Museum at Melbourne University in Parkville/Carlton.

Please register with the office. We are looking forward to meeting our fellow art lovers.

Rosie Spear and Jeanne Klovdahl, Let’s Do Galleries Coordinators

A BIG DAY OUT AT THE MCG – Jeanne Klovdahl reports On Monday 9

July, 29 U3A souls

assembled at the entrance to the ‘G’ to be guided by long-term volunteer Geoffrey Taylor, whose fascinating presentation was spiced with humorous tidbits.

Lunch followed, and then the self-guided component, visiting the extensive National Sports Museum which covers every sport imaginable, Olympic Games from the early 1900s and treasures from a priceless donated collection.

Altogether this was an experience that even the uninitiated and marginally interested could appreciate and enjoy. Jeanne’s full report is on the website Noticeboard.

Photo is a still from our promotional video. Cameraman Hashim Sharaf kindly extracted it for us.

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/members_noticeboard


7

MEET A VOLUNTEER – Fran Sciarretta, Office Admin & Committee Member

Fran’s story

I was actually born Francesca Sciarretta in Italy in the Abruzzi – if you have seen the movie Red Dog, you know what I am talking about! Like 90% of my village, my family migrated, all of us escaping poverty and lack of employment. We left in 1956, Dad having been the advance party to set things up in Melbourne. The photo shows me (on the right) with my mother and sister, before leaving.

I left school at 14 to help support my family and ended up in the Commonwealth Public Service as a stenographer. I still remember with dread my first day in the typing pool. Life got a bit exciting when word got around that I was a crack stenographer and all the engineers decided to test me out with their weird and wonderful technical terminology. I survived it but gradually moved into administration and at 22 became the first woman in Melbourne to work in the Dept of Shipping and Transport’s Seafarers Engagement Centre, helping administer the Australian Navigation Act as it applied to the safe crewing of ships in our waters. It was challenging and fun and very interesting.

Eventually I ended up in the Union movement, initially as an employee running the Union Education School of the Victorian Branch of the Administrative and Clerical Officers Association. I did this for seven years and still say it was the best job ever: it was totally suited to my personality and showed me that I was actually a very good trainer/teacher.

In among all this I managed to get divorced, re-partnered, had a child, did some study, got on the School Council, did lots of community stuff, and did a stint as a Melbourne City Councillor, only to get sacked by Kennett. After this, I decided I had been through some pretty tough times and therefore could cope with being an elected Official of my union, which by this stage was called CPSU (PSU Branch) – lots of amalgamations! I did this for six years and then went into the community housing sector where I was pretty much a Jill-of-all-trades till retirement in 2010.

I was attracted to the U3A because I had always wanted to work with flowers but was not prepared to pay the exorbitant prices required to do it privately, so I was delighted to find that Melbourne City U3A had a Floristry class and hence began my involvement. Unfortunately I am not very artistic, so I suspect my career choices were correct!

My passions and interests are broad and many but I love cooking, wine, opera (especially the really emotional ones by Verdi), and all kinds of music and dance. I read a lot and am interested in politics and human rights issues, etc. I am also a keen traveller, which I want to do more of – but feel I have been pretty lucky to be able to do as much as I have.

These days I do more volunteering than attending classes, but I plan to redress the balance. I get a lot of rewards from volunteering, including working with wonderful people, learning new things and having to rise to the challenge. I feel that although at times I am working very hard for no monetary rewards, it is different from being in a ‘job’ and more fun. Plus it gives me something to talk to my long-term partner about over dinner – we all need to gossip about something that is not family or friends!

Fran Sciarretta, Office Coordinator

See other stories from our growing band of volunteers at http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Volunteering_Voices

WHY FACEBOOK? . . . it can be our online community

Earlier this year our Promotion working group agreed that younger retirees (who are the future members of Universities of the Third Age) are likely to be more involved in social media than most of our current members . . . and that having a ‘page’ on Facebook would put us ‘out there’ and publicise what we have to offer.

And so our U3A Melbourne City Facebook page was launched in April. We don’t know how many people have looked at it – but we now have 35 people ‘liking’ it and the number’s still growing. When someone ‘likes’ us, new items on our page get sent to those people’s pages. Depending on their Facebook settings, their friends may learn about us too.

This is good publicity. But even more pleasing, some of our existing members have been leaving messages and comments, and responding to each other.

To have a look, go to www.facebook.com/U3AMelbourneCity.

Unfortunately, if you want to see everything and make comments, you first need to sign up to Facebook.

I know that many current members won’t want to do that, and this article is not meant to persuade them . . . but if you are undecided, my experience is that it’s easy to join, and possible to stay extremely private, just using it for your own purposes and ignoring the aspects that you don’t want to get involved in.

Managing our U3A page has made me realise Facebook’s potential for creating a sense of community amongst a group of strangers who never meet but who share common interests – which, if you think about it, pretty much describes our large and disparate City U3A. For those who choose, I think our Facebook page can be a sort of gathering place for conversation, information and debate.

Anne Riddell, City News Editor

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Volunteering_Voices

http://www.facebook.com/U3AMelbourneCity


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SHORT COURSES STARTI NG AUGUST-SEPTEMBER No classes on Public Holidays

RH=Ross House; MR=Meeting Room. Phone office 9639 5209 to enrol immediately. First come, first in!

Course program coordinated by Julie Nankervis; venue bookings by Helena Ling

Monday, 1.00-4.00

Unit 6, Ground Floor, Greenview Corporate Centre, 20 Commercial Road, Melbourne August 6

(1 session, 9 places)

INTRODUCTION TO SOCIAL DREAMING AND CREATIVITY / Tutor: Herbert Hahn

Do you have an interest in hearing about the creative potential of facilitated groups safely sharing their night dreams and being in dialogue with each other about them? Herbert will share his experience of, and invite discussion about, facilitating Social Dreaming and Creativity workshops in a variety of settings in several countries over the past two decades. You will gain a basic understanding of the concepts involved and, should there be enough interest from participants, a Dream Sharing Group may be offered as a short course in the second half of the year

Wednesday, 12.00-1.00

Welsh Church Hall

August 8 – September 26

(8 sessions, 25 places)

HATHA YOGA FOR HEALTH, FITNESS AND HAPPINESS / Tutor: Elfie Schmidt

This course will comprise Hatha Yoga asanas (postures), Pranayama (breathing techniques and awareness), Meditation (stilling the mind) and Yoga Philosophy. With regular yoga practice you will find that life is much more satisfying on all levels – physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. No new students after Week 1.

Prerequisites: You must have a reasonable level of fitness. If you need clarification, call Tutor on 9337 9381.

Course materials: Comfortable clothing; bring own mat (floor is wooden), a blanket, and a small pillow.


RH, 3rd

Fl, MR1



NO CLASS ON AUGUST 29

DEMOCRACY AND SATIRE / Group Leader: Jack Foks

As part of an ongoing series on Democracy, Jack will lead group discussions on the part that satire plays in democracies and non-democracies. A range of audio and video resources will be used to introduce students to different definitions and examples of satire, and involve them in considering what they mean for: maintaining or undermining democracy; challenging those in power in non-democracies; highlighting or distorting the truth; encouraging or undermining patriotism and democratic values; understanding or trivialising important issues; offending different persons and organizations; the entertainment industry and the media (old and new) in democracies and non-democracies; and any other areas of interest or concern to the students. No new students after Week 2.


Welsh Church Hall



MIDDLE EASTERN BELLY DANCING / Tutor: Elfie Schmidt CONTINUING

Belly Dancing develops your ability to move gracefully and thereby increase your tone and flow, physically as well as mentally, emotionally and spiritually. It is a very feminine form of dance, non-competitive and lots of fun to share with others. New and continuing students welcome.

Prerequisites: Average level of fitness for age; sense of rhythm and love of music; love to dance.

Course materials: Wear comfortable clothes i.e. leggings, soft skirt, leotard – whatever you feel comfy in.


RH, 1st

Fl, MR1



MANAGING YOUR FINANCES IN RETIREMENT / Tutor: Russell Lees

This course will outline and invite general discussion of the many things related to managing your finances during retirement. This knowledge will help you achieve maximum personal benefit for yourself and your family. Topics to be covered include: likely living and capital expenses; various sources of income and how to maximise these – government pension, private pensions, personal saving and other strategies (e.g. reverse-equity loans); and estate planning. Comprehensive information will be provided about Social Security pensions and entitlements; Self Managed Superannuation Funds options and responsibilities; Investment options and risks; and the various aspects of Estate Planning. Information will be general in nature and should be followed up by personal consultation with Centrelink, your accountant or financial planner.

Course materials: Bring notepad, pen and calculator.

Thursday, 10.00-12.00

Multicultural Hub



CREATIVE JOURNALING / Tutor: Ann Duyndam and Judi Camilleri

Keeping a creative journal is an excellent tool for personal growth. The practice can enrich our relationships, assist us in finding deeper meaning in life and making more life-giving choices. It allows us to be more in touch with our creative imagination. During the course, we will use a variety of art materials to spark the imagination and assist in the journaling process. We will write and draw with pastels or crayons, exploring some of our images, symbols, or dreams in the journal. Activities may also include listening to music, guided meditation, relaxation exercises or clay modelling. Sessions will be friendly, relaxed and provide a safe space in a small group setting. You can safely express your feelings and thoughts, gain a clearer picture of your creative potential, explore some of your life themes, such as the challenging transitions that we all encounter. Both Ann and Judy are experienced trained teachers and are committed to creative journaling. Join the course. Your journal may become your best friend! No new students after Week 2.

Prerequisites: None. You don't need any special talent to join the group. The goal is not to make art or literature; this creative journal keeping is just for you.

Course materials: To be discussed at first session: A3 drawing book; pencils & pastels. Approx cost $15.

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Jack_Foks

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Duyndam_Camilleri


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Thursday, 1.30 – 3.00

Multicultural Hub



NO CLASS ON AUGUST 23

PHYSICS OF EVERYDAY THINGS / Tutor: Bill Jeffries

The Physics of Everyday Things will explore some everyday phenomena (such as why is the grass green or the sky blue) from the viewpoint of Physics. This study of everyday events and observations will examine important principles of Physics without getting ‘bogged down’ in formulae and equations. We will also examine the important contributions to this area of Science made by key figures such as Sir Isaac Newton, Einstein and Galileo. The class will promote interaction allowing students to reflect on their own observations and experiences and the interpretation of these using Physics. Topics that we study might relate to specific areas of Physics: Atomic and Nuclear Physics (make-up of matter), Optics (light and its effects), Electricity and Mechanics (dealing with motion of things). Students will be invited to influence the areas actually examined, by providing questions about their experience of the natural world.

Prerequisites: This course is designed for those with little or no background in the subject.

Thursday, 2.30-4.00

RH, 3rd

Fl, MR2 and

RH, 2nd

Fl, MR1 on Aug 30 only



MEDITATION – INNER POWER, INNER PEACE / Tutor: Kirti Baxi REPEAT

The practice of meditation will help you to tap into and harness the power of your mind to cultivate a peaceful attitude toward situations, circumstances and a busy life. This meditation course provides knowledge of one’s own inner self, which in turn will lead to self management with inner power to make one happy. Each class will include guided meditation practice, revision and discussion of the theory and philosophy underpinning the Raja Yoga Meditation approach to personal wellbeing, self-realisation and spiritual development. New and continuing students welcome. No new students after Week 3.

Course materials: Notebook and pen.

Friday, 1.00-2.30

Welsh Church Hall

August 17 – Sept 14


CONTINUING COURSE

Priority given to previous students

GET HEALTHY: EASY STEPS TO IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH, PART 3 / Group Leader: Dr Nancy Lane

Each week the group facilitator will present a few easy steps we can take to improve our health without strict dieting or strenuous exercise. These steps will be based on current health and medical research. Class members will each decide on one or two steps to trial—the idea is to make these steps a habit and incorporate them into our daily routines. Class members will report back to the group the following week, discussing what worked and what didn’t and why. Part 3 follows on from the nutrition and movement classes offered earlier in the year. During this course we will concentrate on sleep, relaxation and memory, and will have some ‘sampling’ sessions along with our discussions. In Part 4 later in the year, we will look at staying connected and maintaining a positive attitude. No new students after Week 2.

Prerequisites: Students should come with a willingness to participate in discussion and experiment with changing some existing habits. As this is a continuing class, students from Part 1 or 2 will have priority. Others wishing to join will be placed on a waiting list and contacted in turn when places are available.

Course materials: $5 fee to cover course materials.

Friday, 1.00-2.00

RH, 3rd Fl, MR1

September 7 – October 5


GENTLE EXERCISE / Tutor: Ida Tipping

Greet Spring with some gentle exercise. This course led by Ida, an experienced physiotherapist, provides a gentle form of exercise that is suitable to any level of student fitness and ability. It will improve your flexibility, range of movement, posture, balance and cardio-respiratory capacity. Exercises will involve using a chair and the floor, and will be adapted to students’ needs. Optional equipment will be discussed at the first class.

Prerequisites: Suitable for everyone. Students with specific injuries/complaints are encouraged to speak with the tutor at the end of the first session. Members with serious health conditions should talk with their GP prior to joining the course and complete the form available in the office.

Course materials: Wear flexible, secure shoes and comfortable clothes (tracksuit or other trousers). Bring water and towel or sarong to lie on.

And a reminder . . .

ANY TIME, ANY PLACE! Provided online via a blog. Start at any time up to 2 November and then work at your own pace.

Email a request to the office on [email protected] and Jack Foks will contact you and arrange access.

DOES DEMOCRACY WORK? (ONLINE) Tutor: Jack Foks UPDATED REPEAT COURSE

In this online forum students will consider what democracy and its alternatives mean for forms of government; legal frameworks; electoral systems and elections; political organisations; national v. local v. personal interests; long term v. short term interests; compromise and corruption; freedom of speech, action and information; the role of the media; national security; international relations; and any other areas of interest or concern to the students that arise as they view, comment on, and/or respond to other participants’ comments on the issues raised.

Prerequisites: a computer with Internet access and some familiarity with searching the web.

Course Content Disclaimer: All material presented in our classes is at the discretion of the tutor or group leader and does not necessarily reflect the views of U3A Melbourne City. Members are solely responsible for the choices they make. Course summaries indicate the content to be covered; members should seek clarification from the tutor if required.

City News published January, March, May, July, Sept. & Nov. Newsletter team: Anne Riddell (editing/layout); Joan Jeffries (editing/proofing); Helena Ling (course lists, distribution, website posting); Mike Shackleton, Hugh Oates (photocopying/mailing); Jan Miller (website posting); Margaret Rees, David Williams and others (mail-out). Copy deadline first Wednesday of the month of publication. Please email or send items to office for ‘City News Editor’.

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Jeffries

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Kirti_Baxi_1

http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Nancy_Lane


http://www.u3amelbcity.org.au/Jack_Foks


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2012 YEARLONG COURSES SUM MARY AT 16/7/2012 – showing vacancies

Shaded courses are full. Flagged courses had some vacancies at time of printing. Phone office on 9639 5209 to apply. No classes on Public Holidays. Group Leader (GL) – no formal tuition offered. Always check room on Ross House board on the day, in case of change.

COURSE TITLE AND TUTOR/GROUP LEADER Day Time Room

BOOK DISCUSSION / Sandra Joicey (GL) Monthly – last Thursday Thursday 1.00-3.00 RH 4th Fl, MR1

BOTANICAL ART – MONDAY / Rhonda Favaloro Monday 1.00-3.30 Docklands Hub

BOTANICAL ART – THURSDAY / Rhonda Favaloro Thursday 1.00 - 3.30 Docklands Hub

CHESS LEVELS 1 & 2 / Blair Cramer Monday 10.00 - 12.00 RH Gr Fl MR1

CHOIR / Margaret Shilton (GL) Wednesday 10.00 – 11.30 Welsh Church Hall

CRAFT GROUP / Betty Westerland (GL) Tuesday 10.00 - 1.00 RH Mezzanine MR

CRYPTIC CROSSWORDS / Kelvin Edwards (GL) Fortnightly Friday 11.30 - 1.00 RH 1st Fl MR3

CURRENT AFFAIRS / George Boag (GL) Thursday 10.30 - 12.00 Multicultural Hub

ECONOMICS / John Besley Tuesday 10.00 - 11.30 RH 3rd Fl MR1

ENGLISH CONVERSATION / Katharina Budde Monday 11.00-1.00 RH 3rd Fl, MR2

FLORISTRY / Judy Eldred Wednesday 11.30 - 1.00 RH Gr Fl MR1

FRENCH, ADVANCED / Robert Hooke Monday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 1st Fl MR1

FRENCH, INTERMEDIATE / Carol Wright Wednesday 10.00-11.30 RH 3rd Fl MR1

FRENCH, POST INTERMEDIATE / Robert Hooke Wednesday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 1st Fl MR1

FRENCH, POST-BEGINNERS / Carol Wright Wednesday 11.30-1.00 RH 3rd Fl MR1

FRENCH RE-CONNECTION / Maud Heron-Williams Monday 12.30 - 2.00 RH 1st Fl MR1

FRENCH STUDY & CONVERSATION – ADVANCED / Hilary Adair (GL) Tuesday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 1st Fl MR1

GERMAN BEGINNERS / Sigrid Erdt Tutor to appraise new students. Friday 10.00-12.00 RG, Gr Fl, MR1

GERMAN CONVERSATION / Erika Martens/Jack Foks (GL) Friday 10.00 - 11.30 Multicultural Hub

GERMAN LANGUAGE & CULTURE / Erika Martens Thursday 2.00 - 4.00 RH 3rd Fl, MR1

GREAT WORKS OF LITERATURE / Christina Hill Wednesday 1.00 - 3.00 RH Gr Fl MR1

HISTORY OF THE WORLD / Chris Dargan Friday 1.30 - 3.30 RH 4th Fl, MR1

ITALIAN, ADVANCED / Val Pincus (GL) Thursday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 3rd Fl MR2

ITALIAN, POST-BEGINNERS / Diana Bianciardi Tuesday 1.00 - 2.30 RH 1st Fl MR1

ITALIAN, INTERMEDIATE / Joan Gravina Tuesday 1.00 - 2.30 RH Mezzanine MR

JAPANESE LANGUAGE & CULTURE / Shinei Sakai Thursday 10.00 - 11.30 RH 1st Fl MR1

JAPANESE POST-BEGINNERS / Sadako Martin Tutor to appraise new students. Tuesday 10.30 – 1.00 RH 1st Fl MR3

KRISHNAMURTI / Angela Hamilton-Smith (GL) Monthly Sunday 2.00 - 5.00 CAE

LATIN POETRY – AN INTRO / Michael Baker Tuesday 11.30 - 1.00 City Library

LATIN POETRY – CONTINUING / Michael Baker Tuesday 10.00 - 11.30 City Library

MAHJONG TUESDAY / Dorothy Davis (GL) Tuesday 10.00 - 1.00 RH Gr Fl MR 1

MAHJONG WEDNESDAY / Mary Horsfall (GL) Wednesday 10.00 – 11.30 RH Gr Fl MR 1

MAHJONG FRIDAY / Mary Horsfall (GL) Friday 12.30 - 3.30 RH Gr Fl MR 1

MONDAY WRITERS / Mary Horsfall (GL) Monday 12.00 - 1.30 RH 1st Fl MR3

MOVIE DISCUSSION GROUP / Rhoda Lysakowski (GL) Monthly – 3rd Monday Monday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 3rd Fl MR1

MOVIES OF MERIT / John Waldie Wednesday 1.00 - 4.00 Docklands Hub

MUSIC ENSEMBLE / Juliette Zeelander (GL) Monday 1.00 - 3.00 Welsh Church Hall

PAINTING: WATERCOLOUR AND OILS / Ann Hewett (GL) Wednesday 11.30 - 1.00 RH 2nd Fl MR 1

PHILOSOPHICAL ISSUES / Margaret Ledley (GL) Tuesday 2.00 - 3.30 RH Gr Fl MR1

PHILOSOPHY, THE BASICS / Chris Dargan Friday 10.00 - 11.30 RH 1st Fl MR3

SHAKESPEARE REVISITED / Sandra Joicey Thursday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 3rd Fl MR1

SPANISH ADVANCED / Juan Martinez Monday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 1st Fl MR3

SPANISH POST-BEGINNERS / Juan Martinez & Flora Anderson Tuesday 1.00-3.00 RH, 1st Fl, MR3

UNDERSTANDING FINANCIAL MARKETS / Tim Wilson Tuesday 10.00 - 12.00 RH 3rd Fl MR2

WEDNESDAY WRITERS / Betty Caldwell Wednesday 11.00 - 1.00 RH 3rd Fl MR2

WESTERN INTELLECTUAL TRADITION / Rom Jagielski Thursday 1.00-2.30 RH 1st Fl, MR3

WEISS REPORT / Edward Weiss Fortnightly Friday 11.00 - 12.00 RH 3rd Fl, MR1

WINE APPRECIATION / Rod Hawken (GL) Monthly Wednesday 7.30 - 10.00 RH Gr Fl MR 1

WISDOM OF THE AGES / Chris Dargan Monday 2.00 - 3.30 RH 1st Fl MR1

YOGA - A / Alma Kristensen Monday 10.00 - 11.30 RH 4th Fl MR1

YOGA - B / Alma Kristensen Monday 12.00-1.30 RH 4th Fl MR1

issue no. 241 august september 2012 · issue no. 241 august ... charlotte is a senior curator and...

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