Emerald U3A is kicking off another successful year, continuing to grow and adapt despite the challenges faced in recent years – from fewer than 300 members in 2017, the organisation has now surpassed 400 members — a remarkable achievement, particularly considering the disruptions caused by COVID-19 and multiple lockdowns.
While there was understandable hesitation about returning, especially among older individuals more vulnerable to illness, the U3A has bounced back stronger than ever.
The secret to their success lies in a simple yet effective formula: keeping minds active, bodies moving, and fostering social connections.
These three pillars are the foundation of Emerald U3A, and research consistently shows that they are crucial for thriving in later years.
Today, Emerald U3A offers over 60 courses and activities, ranging from philosophy and Scrabble to pickleball, music jamming, Australian history, German language, felting, and even medieval music.
This diverse array of offerings ensures that members can keep their minds sharp, stay physically active, and nurture their creativity.
Each course exists because a member of the community stepped forward to share their passion. While some tutors are retired university professors, the vast majority are simply enthusiastic volunteers eager to pass on their knowledge.
Emerald is fortunate to be home to a community of informed and generous individuals, and the U3A benefits from a beautiful venue where most classes are held.
Some of the groups are particularly adventurous, enjoying activities like bushwalking, exploring local gardens, and playing sports designed for older bodies. No matter the activity, one thing is clear: the members truly enjoy each other’s company.
Social connection is a key element of the U3A’s success. For many of the Hub-based groups, the tea break during class is considered just as important as the session itself.
The groups organiser Peter Maloney said conversations are lively, and the group hosts at least one event each quarter, offering good food and hospitality.
“All of this is covered by a very reasonable annual subscription, to ensure it’s accessible for all members on fixed retirement incomes,” he said.
Behind the scenes, the management committee plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the organisation.
The committee meets once a month, but communication continues through phone calls, texts, and emails between meetings to keep things running smoothly.
The committee members are self-starters, always willing to step up and help out with everything from setting up rooms for special events to rearranging furniture, troubleshooting technology, baking scones, or preparing mulled wine.
Many committee members are also tutors, further enhancing the sense of community.
Emerald U3A places great value on gratitude. They recognise the importance of acknowledging the efforts of volunteers, and regularly express appreciation through thank-you notes, cards for those who are unwell, and small gifts at the end of the year. It’s a simple but meaningful way of showing members they’re valued.
So, what’s behind Emerald U3A’s continued success? It’s the sense of purpose, connection, and community that keeps members engaged. Rather than falling into the stereotype of older people being too set in their ways, the U3A proves that age is no barrier to learning or having fun.
Members celebrate what they can do, what they’ve achieved, and, above all, they laugh and interact together. This combination of social connection, learning, and community spirit is what has helped Emerald U3A not just survive, but thrive.
