U3A in the business of changing lives
YAMBA'S Peggy Opferkuckh was at a loose end after her life partner passed away a few years ago.
She became quite ill with few people to turn to. That was before she discovered the Clarence River University of the Third Age (CRU3A).
Now she is grateful for the many dear friends she has made and loves keeping her mind active.
"So many people think it's a university course, but it's not," she said.
"It's a lot of fun."
The Clarence River U3A is a 300-strong group of over-50s who meet each Tuesday at the Men's Shed on Bill Burns' farm, Romiaka Island (as you enter Yamba.)
It is not only for men ? there are actually more female members than male ? but membership is generally restricted to people aged 50 or over.
The group gets together and participates in a diverse range of activities including basic didgeridoo playing; sculpture; chess; insect identification; poetry; mah jong; painting for beginners; using power and hand tools, or; simply have a coffee and a chat.
The basic concept behind the U3A is to provide a friendly environment to make new friends and share knowledge and expertise and learn new skills to keep your mind active. Membership costs $50 for a couple or $30 per person. To join contact the membership register via Bob Simpson on 66451885.
