MEMBERS of the University of the Third Age (U3A) Port Macquarie Hastings branch returned to the classroom on Monday, 2 February, as classes for the new year officially began at its Lochinvar Place campus.
There was a buzz of activity as members signed in, reconnected with friends and welcomed new faces, embracing the organisation’s motto, “Learners Live Longer”.
U3A is an international organisation founded on the belief that people in their third age of life still have much to learn and contribute.
The Port Macquarie Hastings branch offers a wide range of courses designed to encourage lifelong learning, social connection and intellectual stimulation.
Course coordinator Jane Stevenson said the 2026 program builds on popular offerings from last year while introducing new opportunities for members.
“Our program is full of the courses that we have enjoyed throughout 2025, plus there are seven new courses that will be of great interest.
“We have so many new presentations that are great sources – so check out the program, enrol in the courses that interest you, and get ready for an exciting year of learning new things.”
New courses include Mahjong for Beginners with Bridget Earle, People of the Ancient World with Marguerite Fisher, Story Development with Wendy Haynes, Psychology and Sociology with David Smith, The World of Judaism with Gordon West, Recipes and Stories with Pauline Cain, and Understanding our Mobile Devices with John Peasley and David Hogan.
Long-time member Rose Pontifex, who has attended the crochet class since 2024, said U3A had helped her form lasting friendships.
”We encourage each other where we can,” said Rose.
“Wendy Byron (our teacher) has taught us how to do so many stitches and also offered lots of hints about how to finish our projects.
“We are such a happy group and I always look forward to our Monday morning classes.”
Newcomers are welcome to attend one or two sessions before committing to membership.
Membership is required to enrol in classes, and places remain available in many courses.
More information is available at www.pmhu3a.org.au, by phone on 6584 4192, or in person at 2 Lochinvar Place, Port Macquarie.
By Pauline CAIN
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