Representatives of Yarra Valley U3A groups Terry Green (Healesville) Vernon Denford (Upper Yarra) and Gerald Brinson (Lilydale Yarra Ranges), sign the agreement as Yarra Ranges Council’s Barb Dobson (far left) looks on.
By Kath Gannaway
FIVE University of the Third Age (U3A) branches throughout the Shire of Yarra Ranges have entered a landmark agreement which will deliver enormous benefits to their members.
U3As provide low-cost learning opportunities for retired and semi-retired people through a voluntary tutor system.
On Friday, 26 November, representatives of the Yarra Ranges (Lilydale), Mt Dandenong, Healesville, Sherbrooke and Upper Yarra U3As signed a combined membership agreement which provides their members with access to all classes for a small additional fee on top of the annual membership fee.
U3As across the shire got together with Yarra Ranges Council earlier this year to explore opportunities resulting first in the formation of the Combined U3As of the Yarra Ranges Shire (CU3AYRS) and the exciting membership agreement.
“The rewards of having access to all U3A courses and classes throughout the shire is excellent value for existing and new U3A members,” said CU3AYRS steering committee member Terry Green.
Mr Green said from its beginning the development of the Combined U3As of the Yarra Ranges Shire had been enthusiastically assisted and encouraged by Yarra Ranges Council.
When the CU3AYRS list comes together for 2011 it will offer more than 100 courses and classes from physical activities to artistic and intellectual pursuits.
The option of attending classes in other areas of the shire will also provide opportunities to meet with like-minded people and to form new friendships.
To join a local U3A and to find out more about the combined membership scheme contact U3A offices at Healesville on 5962 5351, Lilydale on 5964 6357, Upper Yarra on 5966 6038, Mount Dandenong on 9728 4431 and Sherbrooke on 9755 2601.
