Can you think of a better way to end a week than gathering a few friends together over a good glass of wine and some cheese? U3AHealesville provides the opportunity to do just this.
Located at 42 Harker St Healesville, U3AHealesville is a not-for-profit organisation for retired or semi-retired people who enjoy getting together to share common interests. One of the more popular activities is the Wine and Cheese Club, where people meet on the third Friday of each month in the Old Healesville Court House to enjoy a glass of wine, try a range of cheeses and share stories of the week.
Paul Schilling is the Master of Ceremonies and prior to each event he provides a theme – it could be Yarra Valley Pinots, Barossa Chardonnays, Hunter Reds or King River Sparkling wines – but it could also be something more frivolous such as ‘The wine you most enjoy sharing at a barbecue’ or ‘The wine that brings back your fondest or most embarrassing memory’. Everyone brings a bottle of wine to match the theme as well as some bikkies and cheese to share. Before a bottle is opened, each person tells briefly the story behind the wine they brought. Nothing fancy or pretentious – just a simple story.
Once the formalities have concluded bottles are opened, glasses are filled, cheese plates shared and the conversations begin. Sometimes the conversations are animated, sometimes quieter. But there is always laughter. Sometimes as many as 25 people attend, but on other occasions only 9 or 10 will be there. Whatever the number it is a relaxing way to end a week with a good wine and good company.
For more information about U3A membership visit the website healesvilleu3a.org.au or email Healesville.u3a@bigpond.com. The Courthouse Office at 42 Harker St is also attended on Thursdays 12.30 – 1.30pm.
