Dear Members,

Some U3A courses are taking a short break for the school holidays e.g. International Folk Dancing, Mahjong, Board & Card games, Friday@U3A.  

Lunch Club will meet on 29^th September (instead of 22^nd September)

Tai Chi will be held at the Kyneton Botanical Gardens over the school holidays and meet at the second gate in Clowes Street at 2 pm. 
 
The U3A Choir will commence on Thursday 6th October in Room 5 at the Mechanics Institute Hall. There is no previous experience required, no auditions and the ability to read music are not necessary.

Our Low Impact Exercise class will re-commence in October, with dates being finalised.

The trip to the EEAMA Greek Social Club is scheduled for Sunday 6^th November 2022 and will be a day trip with an opportunity to encounter some Greek culture and dance.

A Mount Macedon Gardens tour, is planned for Wednesday 16^th November.  There will be a morning tour of the Duniera Estate, lunch at the Mount Macedon Hotel (paid individually) and an afternoon tour of  the Forest Glade gardens. The cost for the day is $35 and payment can now be made.  So that the bus can be booked, please advise if you wish to join the group. Please click HERE for to register for the bus.

 At the AGM Rob Hardy joined the Committee. However, he has advised he does not wish to continue and has therefore resigned. We extend our best wishes to Rob for the future.  
 
Friday@U3A
There will be no change to our free weekly Friday afternoon sessions which will recommence on 7^th October.  A special afternoon tea will be held on the last Friday of each a month. All members and visitors are welcome.
 

U3A Kyneton extends thanks to the RSL for funding the purchase of 3 new tables for Table Tennis.  Below is a photo of last week’s table tennis group enjoying the new tables.



Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

At the Committee meeting on 7th September, Neville Middleton was as the new U3A Kyneton Treasurer.  Following the AGM, Ken Galbraith also nominated and was welcomed as a member on the Committee at the meeting. 

Following the grant from the Macedon Ranges Shire Council several events will be held over the next few months.

Course No. 2204: The U3A Choir will re-convene on Thursday 6th October and, thanks to a recently advised grant from Council’s Community Funding Scheme, the registration fee is now only $10.00. Sessions will run from 10.00am to 12.00 noon, with a coffee break, in Room 5 at the Mechanics Institute Hall.Join our Choir Director, Adam Przewlocki, and work toward performances in December for the U3A Christmas Party and the Twilight Christmas Festival. Reap the boundless benefits of this social and cultural activity, while learning and performing Australian and European pop, folk and traditional songs.

Course No: 2254: EEAMA Greek Social Club, Sunday 6^th November 2022
Dust off the Winter blues and put a spring in your step at our first outing … a full day trip to the EEAMA Greek Social Club, Preston. This is an opportunity to enjoy a cultural experience amongst Kyneton friends and the very sociable club members. Come along for a delicious 3 course meal followed by watching or joining in the traditional Greek dances.

The bus for this excursion has been funded by the MRSC Community Funding Scheme grant. The bus will be leaving Kyneton Post Office for Preston at 10am and returning at 5pm.

The cost will be $38 for a meal and entertainment … drinks will be available at the bar at your own cost.
 

Course No. 2244: Mount Macedon Gardens tour, Wednesday 16^th November.  This will be a day’s outing with a morning tour of the Duniera Estate to experience some of the spectacular garden and arrangements have also been made to visit the 1890’s house with its fine collection of antique furniture and art. Lunch will be at your own expense at the Mount Macedon Hotel.

The afternoon will consist of a tour of the Forest Glade gardens and collection of sculpture.A bus will depart the Kyneton Information Centre at 10am and return at 3.30pm. The cost for this excursion will be $35/head. Further details can be viewed HERE.

Other Course information:

• Our Intermediate French classes return to their regular time sessions on Tuesday
• There are still spaces for 2 one-hour sessions on 10^th and 11^th October for An Introduction to Horse Racing.
• The International Folk Dancing will be held today and then taking a short break, with the fun-filled dancing sessions resume on 10^th October.
• Poetry will not be held this month with the next gathering on 18th October.

Friday@U3A
Our weekly Friday afternoon sessions are continually varied with members and visitors always welcome.  At the recent committee meeting it was decided to change the arrangement for afternoon tea following the presentations.  Commencing in October, the weekly Friday@U3A will continue as usual, free of charge, and a special afternoon tea set up on the last Friday of each a month.

Timetable 12-16 September

Day	Code	Name	Time
Monday	2296	International Folk Dance-3	10:00 AM
	2215	Mah Jong	1:30 PM
	2213	Music	2:00 PM
Tuesday	2257	French – Intermediate-1	10:00 AM
	2259	Cycling	10:30 AM
	2285	French – Intermediate-2	11:00 AM
	2219	Tai Chi 2	2:00 PM
	2276	Armchair Travel to Mediaeval Europe	2:00 PM
Wednesday	2252	Men’s Kitchen – 2	10:00 AM
	2281	Apartheid	10:00 AM
	2286	French – Beginners	10:00 AM
	2203	Coffee Club	10:30 AM
	2298	Board and Card Games – 3	10:30 AM
	2258	French – Advanced	11:00 AM
	2217	Table Tennis	4:30 PM
Thursday	2226	Bushwalking	8:30 AM
	2222	Dog Walking	9:30 AM
	2214	Current Affairs	10:00 AM
	2240	Film Club	2:00 PM
Friday	2220	Friday@U3A	2:00 PM
	2299	Table Tennis-Friday	4:15 PM

Friday@ U3A, 19th September
Our next Friday@U3A will be presented by Fred Gammie with the topic ‘Ukraine and Russia’. Fred started his professional life as a teacher of Maths and Chemistry at Coburg High School in 1977. He then went to work for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria, before joining the Ford Motor Company. He then moved into the food processing industry and an independent career in management consulting. During the last six years of his career, he worked exclusively for Bunge, the New York based food trading and processing company, trading commodities in Ukraine and around the world.

Fred was based in Ukraine from 2013 to 2018 and in 2014 witnessed the first Russian tanks rolling into Donetsk. His presentation will be about his firsthand observations, how the two countries have developed in very separate ways and the very different attitudes of their populations.
–   Ukraine and Russia
–   Their people and industries
–   What changed after Boxing Day 1991?
–   What were they like prior to the current war?

Come along for a unique insight into a critical global situation.
 
Below is a photo of last year’s visit to the beautiful Stonefields garden.



Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members
 
There is lots of good news this week for U3A. 
 
Firstly, a huge thank you to Helen Metcalfe for her generous donation. 
 
The Red Brick Hall in Kyneton is a multi-user facility and our current table tennis tables are heavy to handle and pose a risk for injury. An application to the RSL for funds to replace the three tables was kindly approved this week. The above donation and funding support by the RSL will be used to purchase new table tennis tables and other equipment for our table tennis players.  We thank the RSL for their ongoing support to U3A Kyneton and will acknowledge this via our digital weekly ‘Wotzon’ newsletter.

 
The Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s (MRSC) annual Community Funding Scheme delivers a direct benefit to the community each year. A grant application was made in June to the MRSC for a number of U3A Kyneton activities.  The grant has been successful, so we are now absolutely ‘Ready for Anything!’.  The Council funding will enable U3A to offer several cultural, enriching excursions which will be spaced out over the year, an educational museum tour and the establishment of the Choir.  In the meantime, details to all the MRSC Community Grant recipients can be found via this LINK. U3A Kyneton thanks the MRSC and also our volunteers who prepared and submitted the application. More details will be advised soon so watch this space!

• Our Intermediate French classes will be combined again this week and held at 11am on Tuesday.
• The Apartheid course commences 7^th September. The main body of the course will focus on the apartheid years leading to the election of Nelson Mandela in 1994.
• U3A Kyneton’s Spring Racing Festival: at last Friday’s Friday@U3A Daryl Raggatt commenced our Spring racing programs with his presentation “The Spring Racing Carnival” where he took us to both the Melbourne Cup and Royal Ascot. The second part of this program is Daryl’s two one-hour session course – on 10 and 11 October – An Introduction to Horse Racing –  designed to enhance your interest and enjoyment of the Spring Carnival and racing generally. The $20 fee includes a copy of Best Bets. The third part of this program is the Melbourne Cup Party on Tuesday 1 July. The races will be on the large screen at the Redbrick Hall and there will be bubbly and Chicken sandwiches.
• At Friday@U3A on 22 July there was a screening of the, at the time, ground breaking film, Nanook of the North. Peter Tammer introduced the film on the day and has since forwarded this link to his article about it. Was it a genuine film or a documentary? Peter has explored this and more. Open this LINK to read about the historical significance of this film.”
• A new support group for carers is starting up in the Macedon Ranges.  Carer Connect Chat is open to anyone who cares for someone close to them and aims to give people the opportunity to meet monthly over lunch and connect with people locally.  Details can be found HERE.
• Membership badges: If you have not yet received your 2022 membership badge, please let me know.  I will have them available for collection at next Friday@U3A.

Our courses for this week are:
 

Our next Friday@U3A will be presented by Stephen Carisbrooke with the topic ‘Fun in China’. Stephen spent five years – from 2008 to 2013 – living and working in China. He will talk about his experiences and insights from that time – a period when the relationship between Australia and China were optimistic and cordial.

Come along and share Stephen’s Chinese memories and adventures. Everyone is welcome.
 
See you there!
 
Below are a couple of photos from Stephen taken during his time in China.

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

Thank you to all members who attended our AGM on Wednesday. Thanks also to everyone who sent apologies. Congratulations to the volunteers who were nominated and elected to the 2022/23 Committee.
 
Below is our new Committee:

 
Susan Webster, President, U3A Network Victoria, was our special guest at the meeting and gave an address about ‘U3A and the future’. The address can be found via this LINK for those who would like to view the full presentation.
 
At the AGM The Chair confirmed that the U3A Kyneton annual subscription remain at $40 in 2023, and continue with no fee for our weekly Friday@U3A sessions.

A generous afternoon tea followed the meeting. Nothing was wasted, and the leftovers were donated to the local ‘Kyneton Lodge’ which provides residential aged care in a homely setting.

• The popular International Folk Dancing course resumes today
• Our Intermediate French classes will be combined this week and held at 11am on Tuesday.
• Kyneton Connect has been distributed this week and includes an article on Page 10 on Tai Chi.  If you would like to read the article and view Kyneton Connect in colour, please click on this LINK.
• It is also Adult Learning Week commencing the first week in September and details can be found HERE.

Our next Friday@U3A will be presented by Daryl Raggatt with the topic ‘The Spring Racing Carnival – everything about horse racing’.
 
Daryl has had a lifetime interest in horse racing as an owner, a punter and all-round equine enthusiast. He will explain what really happens at the Flemington Spring Racing Carnival and compare it to England’s Royal Ascot. This is an opportunity to hear from an expert and ask anything you want to know about horse racing.
 
Come along and find out how to make the most of the Caulfield Cup, the Cox Plate, the Melbourne Cup and The Oaks.
 
Below is a photo taken during Bushwalking of the rare and endangered Grevillea Obtecta found only between Fryerstown and Daylesford in Victoria

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,
Our Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Wednesday, 17^th August at the Red Brick Hall commencing at 2.00pm.  We are delighted to have Susan Webster, President, U3A Network Victoria, visit us on Wednesday. Susan’s address will be on “U3A and the Future”. Following the meeting there will be a substantial afternoon tea. There will also be some photos revealing a ‘snapshot of activities held in 2022’.

Nominations for the Committee and any other business items need to be received by the Secretary 24 hours prior to the meeting.  If you would like to nominate for the Committee, please contact Roni.

All members are welcome, so come along to gather with U3A friends and enjoy some afternoon tea.

If you are unable to attend the meeting, and would like to send your apology, please click here, however, we will miss you.

• There will be no Friday@U3A this week as the AGM will replace the regular Friday afternoon session.
• Please note that until the weather gets warmer, Cycling starts at 10.30am.
• Both Intermediate French classes will be combined this week and held at 11am on Tuesday.
• Len’s Computer Workshop will not be held this week, but rescheduled to 24th August.
• Enrolments are now open for a new course on ‘an introduction to Horse Racing’ (course no. 2290) which will be held over 2 days on 10^th and 11^th October at 10.30-11.30am at Kyneton Community House.
  
  Macedon Ranges Shire Council:
• We have received a reminder to be mindful when parking outside the Red Brick Hall to allow clear and unobstructed access to all driveways in the street.
• The Council is implementing a Cool Changes program in Kyneton. The program’s major focus is to facilitate the creation of place-based, community-led climate action plans for the major townships throughout the Shire.  Further information can be found via the promotional flyer and there is a survey open to the Kyneton community to initial the program which also offers an opportunity to register for further participation.  Click here to access the survey.

The regular Friday@U3A afternoon meeting will not be held this week.
 

 

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members

• Wines Regional took place over three sessions and evolved into a lot more than the planned Macedon Ranges wine region. Scott Banks our tutor, opened with the vineyards of the Macedon Ranges, where elevation, winter rains, cool summers and granite soils result in delicate lively wines – fine, intense with fruit characters in the whites and soft tannins in the reds.
  
  The first session was white wines, where Chardonnay and Riesling starred. Not just from the Macedon Ranges but also Heathcote. Our second session was red wines. We moved between Macedon and Heathcote. The Heathcote grapes, from vines grown on rich red 500-million-year-old Cambrian soils. These make wines darker in colour and more robust, with stronger tannin than those from the higher elevation Macedon vines. Participants detected blackberry, chocolate and even kerosene!
  
  The first two sessions were accompanied by tasting platters. By popular demand, the third session, last Wednesday, evolved into a wine and food gala. The menu of potato and leek soup with garlic croutons, followed by Spezzalino di Manzo (an Italian beef stew) complemented with herbed mash and seasonal greens, finished with Persian love cake, topped with citrus syrup and yoghurt.
  
  The accompanying wines were from Macedon, Heathcote and France. Starting with a sparkling from Romsey then contrasting local reds and whites, with similar varieties from France. Inspired participants had brought along an aged fortified wine and a shiraz – adding to the richness of the night.
  
  Congratulations to Kyneton Community House on their new High Street café, a perfect venue and also to KCH catering for their excellent food and service. Special thanks to Scott Banks for taking us on a truly memorable wine excursion, which included a surprise trip to France!
   
• Our AGM is approaching fast and will be held on Wednesday, 17^th August at 2.00pm in the Red Brick Hall. Documents have been distributed to all members. If you have not received them or would like another copy, please email the Secretary.
• The popular MUSIC session is not being held this week.
• The MRSC has forwarded information regarding a State-wide survey for older Victorians. The survey gives older Victorians the chance to raise important issues, share their experiences of ageing and highlight the support they need to age well and all survey responses are anonymous. If you would like to participate, the link to the Seniors Online survey can be accessed HERE 

Friday@U3A
The speaker for next Friday@U3A will be Dr Jean Ker Walsh with the topic ‘Beyond Cruel: Australia’s 21^st Century Response to Refugees’. Dr. Jean Ker Walsh is Co-chair of the Grandmothers for Refugees, a national movement of women elders advocating justice for refugees.
 
In August 2001 the refusal by the Australian Government to allow the freighter MV Tampa, carrying 433 refugees rescued from a distressed fishing vessel, to cross into Australian waters, overturned our proud history of welcoming displaced persons and refugees. Dr. Walsh will explore the legacy of that decision, examining the cruelty inherent in successive governments’ refugee policies and look at the question – is current policy fit for purpose?
 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING NOTICE

Dear Members,

The U3A Kyneton Annual General meeting (AGM) will be held on Wednesday, 17^th August 2022 at 2.00pm in the Red Brick Hall.
 
Nominations, Proxies and items for the Agenda must be emailed, mailed or delivered to the Secretary 24 hours prior to commencement of the AGM at 2:00pm. 
 
Documents for the AGM are available via the links below (follow link underlined). 

1. Notice of Meeting
2. Agenda
3. Minutes of the 2021 Annual General Meeting
4. President’s Annual Report
5. Treasurer’s Financial Statements
6. Nomination Form
7. Proxy Form

All members are welcome. Apologies can be emailed to the Secretary


Courses:
There are 21 courses this week (and the Committee is meeting)

 
Friday@U3A
Our next Friday@U3A will be Larina Strauch, Secretary and Research Officer, Kyneton Historical Society, with the topic “Kyneton Railway Station – from the past to the present”.
 
Larina’s talk will take us from April 25 1862, when the railway reached Kyneton and the station was opened. John Pascoe Fawkner was among the inaugural train travellers to Kyneton. Larina will explore the ongoing development and construction of the station, its facilities and its importance to the Kyneton community.
 
Come along to hear the the fascinating journey.  All members and visitors are welcome.
 
Below are our some of our dog walkers promenading beside the Campaspe River
 
 

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

• The final session of Men’s Kitchen-1 took place on Wednesday 13 July. This was a happy happenstance as the French menu selected in May was executed on the eve of Bastille Day – Wednesday 13 July. The celebratory meal included roast duck legs, accompanied by French Puy Style Lentils and a bitter leaf salad for balance, all rounded off with Boulangere potatoes. Dessert was the French classic, Vacherin Chantilly. The meal was accompanied by a selection of the best French wines  – Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from Burgundy and a Grenache/Mourvedre/Shiraz from Southern Rhone. The meal concluded with a rousing toast – Vive La Revolution, vive La Republique vive La France!
  
  Men’s Kitchen 2 commences on 10 August and there are 3 places available – register now for a fine food adventure.”

• Our annual Christmas in July lunch will be held on Wednesday. The Menu can be seen here.  
• An additional course (no. 2298) has been created for Computer, Phones and you which will be held on Wednesday 27^th July, 10^th, 24^th and 31^st August and will be held at the Red Brick Hall.
• The exhilarating Armchair Travel to Medieval Europe sessions are being continued until December.
• Enrolments are open for an exciting new course (no. 2212) on Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales which will commence on 23^rd August. This will involve an open discussion group on Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales in a casual format.

U3A Annual General Meeting, Wednesday, 17^th August, 2.00pm
A letter to all members from Leigh Baker was distributed this week about involvement with the U3A Committee. If you haven’t already read it, it can be viewed via this link. Next week’s Wotzon will consist of documentation for the AGM and will be distributed to all members.

Friday@U3A
The speaker for next Friday@U3A will be Keith Hallett with the topic ‘What happened at Sunday School?’ Keith is a retired teacher, historian and U3A tutor. The Sunday School movement engaged one third of Australia’s youth in the first three quarters of the twentieth century. Its influence was highly significant to our national story.
 
Keith’s talk will cover the great sociability, the anniversaries, the curriculum, the movement’s success and the reasons for its collapse by the end of the century.
 
Join us for a unique slice of our social history.
 

Stephen Carisbrooke has submitted an article to the New Woodend Star on our popular Tai Chi sessions. You can view the article here. Here is a photo of everyone enjoying a wonderful moment at Tai Chi.



Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

Many thanks to Heather Potter for sending last week’s Wotzon while I was on holiday.

Friday@U3A will start at 1.00pm this week
The topic for Friday@U3A will be “Nanook of the North” – celebrating 100 years since the release of this ground-breaking film. Our speaker will be Peter Tammer who will draw on his long professional career as both a founding member of the Melbourne Film Makers Cooperative in the 1960’s and as a teacher of film to introduce this controversial film.
 
When it was released in 1922 the film caused a sensation with its depiction of the Inuit people of Canada’s Far North and their struggle to survive in a harsh climate and rugged landscape.
 
There will be a tea-break at the conclusion of the film, then questions and discussion led by Peter.
 
Come along for a lively afternoon. You will also learn how to build an igloo! 
 
Additional information:

• Our Christmas in July lunch is scheduled for 27^th July at the Kyneton RSL, commencing at midday. Everyone is welcome and all dietary requirements can be accommodated if notified in advance. $25/head will offer a main course and desert, whilst drinks are available from the bar. Please email or call 0439 360 763if you have any queries. 
   
• Thanks to our Tutor Peter Wilson,  “The Horse in Art” is commencing this week.
   
• The Regional Wines tasting sessions start on Thursday evening and will include commentary by Scott Banks who has extensive wine knowledge.
   
• U3A Kyneton and Covid:  Although there are now no mandatory Covid requirements, please do not attend any courses and stay at home if you feel unwell. It is also recommended that a face mask be worn for any indoor course (e.g. the Red Brick Hall), or are in a space where physical distancing cannot be maintained.

There are 22 courses this week :
 

 
Last week Bastille Day was commemorated and enjoyed by our French classes (with thanks to Tutor, Simone)

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

This week you have me, Heather Potter, doing the WOTZON newsletter for you, so you must forgive me if it is not up to Roni’s standard!

Firstly, it is a big week for the Francophiles as on Thursday it is Bastille Day! The French classes are meeting on Thursday 14^th July at Animus Gin Distillery in Piper Street at 12 noon to celebrate the event. This is additional to their normal Tuesday and Wednesday classes.

Bonne fête nationale!

Another important reminder it that “The Horse in Art” is starting on the 20^th of July.  Not in October as was accidently notified next month.

New courses starting in July:

• Low Impact Exercise 3 starts on 11th July
• Board and Card Games 2 starts on 13th July
• Cryptic Crosswords 2 starts on 15th July

Friday@U3a is back on Friday 15 July.

Topic – Managing Your Finances in a Changing Economy

Speaker – Bob Nixon, Nixon Financial Services.

Bob will talk to us about strategies for managing your income and investments in a volatile economy.

Inflation, a plunging share market and fluctuating investment returns will have an impact on our standard of living.

Come along and learn how to protect yourself and even benefit from the new environment.

The Old Kyneton Primary School Redevelopment. 

Have your say on the Old Kyneton Primary School redevelopment which will transform this historic site into a vibrant creative hub for the community. Follow this link to read and comment.  Old Kyneton Primary School redevelopment | Engage Victoria

The AGM for U3A Kyneton is on the 17^th August at 2.00pm.

Susan Webster, President, U3A Network, will be giving an address at the AGM.

This will be followed by the election of the new committee. The current Treasurer and Secretary are not standing for these positions again and we also need extra people on the committee. The U3A depends on the committee to run things in the background so that our tutors and you as members can enjoy a truly wonderful association and all it offers. If you think that you can contribute by being on the committee, please nominate for the committee. You can download the nomination form from the website. Nomination forms must be in 24 hours prior to the AGM.

You can download the form from the website here

Descriptions of Committee Positions can be found here on the U3A Kyneton website U3A-Kyneton-Position-Descriptions-V1.0.pdf (u3akyneton.org.au)

See below the classes for next week.

Have a great week everyone, enjoy your activities with U3A!

Heather Potter

(standing in for Roni this week)

Dear Members

The Committee is meeting on Wednesday.  Please let us know if there is anything you would like discussed.
Please SAVE THE DATE for the U3A Kyneton Annual General Meeting which will be held on Wednesday, 17th August at 2.00pm in the Red Brick Hall. All members are invited.

We are searching for additional Committee members to ensure the smooth running of U3A Kyneton.

A Friday ‘support and catering crew’ are also needed.

If you would like to hear further details, please let us know by phone (0439 360 763), email, or have an informal chat to one of the Committee. (Current committee members are: Alan Moor, Andrew McDowall, Roni Taubman, John Taubman, Heather Potter, Paul Reid, Stephen Carisbrooke and Ged Seddon.) U3A Kyneton’s Committee are all volunteers.

Len advises that due to school holidays there will be NO Computer Workshop this week.

All French classes will celebrate Bastille Day on 14th July.

This year the Christmas in July lunch will be held on 27th July at the Kyneton RSL, commencing at midday. All dietary requirements can be accommodated. Enrolments are open and everyone is welcome to attend – there is a cost of $25/head for a main course and desert. Drinks are available from the bar. A Menu will be distributed prior to the luncheon and enquiries can be directed to Roni via email.

The Horse in Art commences on 20th July for 3 weeks – watch out for an article in the Midland Express.

The start date for our U3A Choir has been deferred to 7th October with 10 sessions planned and enrolments are now open with everyone being placed on a waitlist until full details become available.

The MRSC Community Connect project has created a website for support and community groups in the Macedon Ranges.  U3A is currently listed under ‘History and Learning Groups’.

Unless otherwise advised by your Tutor, the following courses will be held this week:
Timetable 04 – 08 July

Monday
2215 Mah Jong 1:30 PM
Tuesday
2259 Cycling 9:30 AM
2257 French – Intermediate-1 10:00 AM
2285 French – Intermediate-2 11:00 AM
2294 Computers, Phones, TVs and You 1:00 PM
Wednesday
2286 French – Beginners 10:00 AM
2203 Coffee Club 10:30 AM
258 French – Advanced 11:00 AM
2230 Committee Meeting 2:00 PM
2217 Table Tennis 4:30 PM
Thursday
2226 Bushwalking 8:30 AM
2222 Dog Walking 9:30 AM
2214 Current Affairs 10:00 AM
2240 Film Club 2:00 PM
Friday
2299 Table Tennis-Friday 4:15 PM

The next Friday@U3A will resume on 15^th July.
 
Here is a photo taken by Peter Wilson of the magnificent Equestrian Statue of Marcus Aurelius, Roman Emperor, 2nd century AD, now located in the Palazzo dei Conservatori, Rome.
 

Roni Taubman

Dear Members
 
Last Friday@U3A an interactive session was held by Justin Marshall from Guide Dogs Australia, and 4 members volunteered to undertake buttering some bread which proved to be extremely difficult whilst blindfolded! 

• Last week’s Low Impact Exercise class has been rescheduled to today at 2.00pm at the Xist Gym. The next Exercise – Low Impact-3 starts on Monday, 11 July.
• Table Tennis on Friday afternoons: the Friday table tennis sessions commence this week at 4.15pm.
• The start date for our U3A Choir has been deferred to 7^th October with 10 sessions planned.

Enrolment for some courses are ‘wait-listed’ due to a varying reasons.  Sometimes dates and/or locations need to be finalised. Don’t be put off if a ‘wait-list’ message appears occasionally when enrolling.  Any queries can be directed to the Course Coordinator via email or phone: 0439 360 763.

Unless otherwise advised by your Tutor, the following courses will be held this week:
 

The Macedon Ranges Bridge Club is offering some Beginners Lessons.  Please contact the Bridge Club if you are interested in learning how to play Bridge.
 
Friday@U3A will be taking a 2-week break during the school holiday period and resuming on 15^th July.
 
Judge for yourself the quality of the bread buttering task done by our blindfolded volunteers……




Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

• An Elvis Film and Exhibition (course 2297).  There will be a screening of GI Blues, an iconic Elvis film, 11.00am at the Red Brick Hall on 27 June.  Part 2 of this course will be held on 29 June with an excursion to Bendigo.  Members can book a ticket for the 11.30am admission to the exhibition. (Phone the Bendigo Gallery – 5434 6088 and follow the prompts. The Cost is $25.00 discount for seniors, pensioners, and health card holders and $20.00 for NGV members.) After viewing the exhibition, we can meet at the gallery café at 1.00pm.
   
• Please note that the Low Impact Exercise-2 class will NOT be held today due to an unexpected personal issue. The program is lots of fun and encompasses specific exercises for the 70s and over. Another 8-week session, Exercise-Low Impact-3 (course 2269) starts on 11 July at a costs of $40 and is now open for enrolments. All enrolled will be placed on a waiting list until further notice.
   
• The Friday Table Tennis trial ends this week, however, for those who wish to continue playing (or want to start playing) Table Tennis on Friday afternoons, please enrol into course no. 2299 which will commence on 01 July until the end of the year at a cost of $10.
   
• Enrolments are now open for the Choir (course 2204). Come along to share the joy of singing with U3A Kyneton. Previous experience and the ability to read music are not necessary. No auditions are necessary, and the cost is $50.
   
• Dates for the Regional Wines sessions (course 2253) have been confirmed as 21 and 28 July and 04 August commencing at 7.30pm at Kyneton Community House Restaurant. There are a couple of spaces still available. The fee is $45 (plus one dinner charge).

Please contact us if there are any queries enrolling into courses or if anyone is having difficulty logging into UMAS.
 
All members are welcome to join our U3A Kyneton Facebook page, which is a private group.
 
As we approach the school holidays, please check with Tutors to see whether or not a course is being held.
 
Below is a list of courses being held this week.
 

Our next Friday@U3A will be Bob Nixon, Nixon Financial Services with the topic “Managing your Finances in a changing economy”.

Bob will talk to us about strategies for managing your income and investments in a volatile economy. Inflation, a plunging share market and fluctuating investment returns will have an impact on our standard of living. Come along and learn how to protect yourself and even benefit from the new environment.
 
Below is a photo of Stephen Carisbrooke enlightening his class to the world of propaganda!



Roni Taubman

Dear Members,
 
Last Friday we enjoyed an informative session about how to maintain your best health through Winter by Dr. Milo Murphy. Below is a photo of Dr. Murphy and U3A Kyneton President, Alan Moor.
 

 
If you would like to assist U3A Kyneton, please contact us or have an informal chat to one of the Committee. (Current committee members are: Alan Moor, Andrew McDowall, Roni Taubman, John Taubman, Heather Potter, Paul Reid, Stephen Carisbrooke and Ged Seddon.) All U3A Kyneton’s Committee are volunteers.
 
There has been recent discussion about clashing courses, some being held on the same day at the same time, but in different locations.  Whilst it is understood that this can be disappointing, please bear in mind that U3A Kyneton offers members a program offering many varied activities and courses and it is impossible to avoid some conflicts. Course dates and times are usually set at the beginning of the year, however, sometimes circumstances change. All tutors’ involvement is highly valued and assists the goal of ‘lifelong learning’ for members and U3A Kyneton would not exist without them.

• Due to the Public Holiday, Mahjong will not be held today.
• The Low Impact Exercise class will also be postponed today for the Public Holiday.
• The Railways and Australian History course commenced last week with the next sessions being held on 23^rd and 30^th June.
• Enrolments are now open for The Choir (course no. 2204) which will commence on 15^th July.
• The Horse in Art will commence on 20^th July.
• All members enrolled in the regional wines course (no. 2253) are currently on the waiting list and will be accepted into the course as soon final confirmation from Scott Banks.

All members are welcome to join the U3A Kyneton Facebook which is a private group where only members can see who’s in the group and what they post.

Below is a list of courses being held this week.

 
Our next Friday@U3A will be a video screening. Drawing on the resources of U3A Network Melbourne, we shall be screening a specially selected video. Come along to be entertained and delighted. Or perhaps shocked!

Our Table Tennis group is full of hilarity and entertainment.   
 
 

 
Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,
 
Our Annual General Meeting will be held in August and, as some have been on the Committee for several years, we are seeking a Treasurer and Secretary.  In addition, a Course Coordinator, assistance with publicity, technology and a Friday@U3A ‘support and catering crew’ are also needed to ensure U3A Kyneton runs smoothly. If you would like to hear more about any of these positions, please let us know by phone: 0439 360 763, email, or have an informal chat to one of our friendly Committee members: (Alan Moor, Andrew McDowall, Roni Taubman, John Taubman, Heather Potter, Paul Reid, Stephen Carisbrooke and Ged Seddon). All U3A Kyneton’s Committee are volunteers.

• There will be NO Mahjong session today due to Tutor illness.
• The time for the Computers, Phones and you course on Tuesdays from tomorrow onwards will be 1.00 p.m. – 3.30 p.m.
• From 14^th June, the Intermediate French-1 and Intermediate French-2 classes will be held on Tuesdays at 10.00 am and 11.00 am respectively.
• The start date for the regional wines (course no. 2253) will be 7^th July (not June as previously advised). All enrolled are currently on the waiting list and will be accepted into the course as soon as the date has been finally confirmed with Scott Banks.
• The Choir (course no. 2204) will commence on 15^th July. Keep a lookout for an article about the Choir in the June Kyneton Connect and local newspapers.

Our next Friday@U3A will be Doctor Milo Murphy with the topic “Preserving Your Good Health Through Winter and Beyond. In 2021 Dr. Murphy de-mystified Covid vaccination issues for us. So much so that U3A Kyneton membership achieved a 100% vaccination rate! This Friday he will talk about preventive health measures – how to maintain your best health through winter, including Covid boosters and influenza vaccination. Come along and find out how to live forever 😊
 
Do you want to keep warm and have some fun this Winter? Then join our international folk dancers for the next session (course no. 2296) commencing on 22^nd August.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Heather, Member No, 769

• Our 2 Intermediate French classes have been combined and will be held at 11.30am today.
• Course no. 2297: Elvis film and excursion to the Bendigo exhibition will be held in 2 parts.  Places are limited to 12 so book now for a great event.
  • Part 1 – on 27 June, a screening of GI Blues, an iconic Elvis film, 11.00am at the Red Brick Hall.
  • Part 2 – on 29 June, book your ticket in advance for 11.30am admission to the exhibition (phone the Bendigo Gallery – 5434 6088 and follow the prompts. Cost – $25.00 discount admission for seniors, pensioners, and health card holders. $20.00 for NGV members).
    Next, after viewing the exhibition, meet at the gallery café at 1.00pm for the Elvis banquet – a shared meal of just about everything. Includes a donut for dessert and your choice of an Elvis pale ale, a Balgownie wine or just a mineral water.
  • Enrolment for the 2 parts of the course is $40.00 per person (plus individual payment to view the exhibition).
     
• Due to the venue undergoing renovations, the start date for 3 sessions of discovering regional wines (course no. 2253) has been altered to now commence on 7^th June. Scott Banks is the local fount of wisdom and knowledge for all things wine. His local business (Banks Fine Wine) has developed from extensive experience and knowledge.
• The first session of the Choir will be held on 15^th July. Sing your way to health and wellbeing by enrolling into Course no. 2204. The cost is $50 (a total of 10 sessions @ $5/person). Note that previous experience, the ability to read music and no auditions are necessary.

If anyone needs assistance with enrolments, please email John/Roni who will be able to assist with your query.

 
Our next Friday@U3A will be Graham Kent APM with the topic ‘Hoddle Street, 9^th August 1987’. Graham is a retired Police Inspector and will tell us about the police response to and subsequent investigation of the 1987 Hoddle Street massacre. This mass shooting killed 7 people and wounded 19. At the perpetrator’s trial it was described by the presiding Judge as “one of the bloodiest massacres in Australian history. All are welcome, so come along and bring a friend.
 
Below is a photo of the initial U3A Kyneton Choir session with Adam Przewlocki





Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

• Stephen Carisbrooke’s course on Propaganda commences on Friday, 27^th May at 10.00am.
• Our 2 Intermediate French classes have been combined and be held at 11.30am today and also on 30^th May.
• The free course in Computers, phones and TVs, is starting tomorrow at 11.00am – 2.00pm for 8 weeks at Kyneton Community House.
• The Elvis film screening in Gisborne is not proceeding.
• There will be no Bird Observers this month, with the next gathering on 23^rd June.
• Course no. 2282, Railways and Australian History will be held on 9^th, 23^rd and 30^th June. (Watch out for an article about this topic in the Gisborne Gazette.)
• The next session of course no. 2292, Cryptic Crosswords-2 will start on 15^th July.
• The date for the U3A Christmas in July lunch has been changed to 27^th July with the venue to be advised. All members enrolled will be wait-listed for the lunch until the venue has been confirmed.

Details of courses are available 24/7 via the U3A Kyneton website by selecting the courses & activities tab, and members can enrol into any course using their membership number and password. If anyone is having difficulty with enrolments, please email John/Roni who will be able to assist with your query.

Our member, Charlotte Roberts, is holding a Taketina Rhythm Meditation event on Saturday 28^th May at Kyneton Community House, from 10am-3pm. It is $12 for U3A members. Registration and further details can be found HERE.

Our next Friday@U3A will be Gary “Sparkles” Clark with the topic “Adventures on Horseback”. Gary has written a book about his adventures on horseback. He tells how becoming a horse owner led to his participation in the first Great Mountain Race in 1983 – inspired by the release of the film The Man from Snowy River. He will describe and illustrate his adventures from mustering cattle in the Barmah Forest to riding the Bicentennial Trail – the longest bridle path in the world – with his horses and his Kelpie, Suey.
 
Come along to share Gary’s adventures. All are welcome.
 
Below is a photo of the last year’s beautiful “Stonefields” garden visit – another garden tour is planned for later this year.



Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552
 

Dear Members,
 
Last Friday we enjoyed a captivating performance by Charlotte Roberts, a multi-disciplinary music artist who has lived in the area since she was a child.  
 

 

• The 2 Intermediate French classes have been combined for today, 23^rd and 30^th May and commence at 11.30am
• Schubertlieder will not be held this week, however, additional sessions are planned for 7^th and 21^st June.
• Course no. 2294, Computers, phones and TVs, is commencing on Tuesday, 24^th May, 11.00am – 2.00pm for 8 weeks and will be held at the Kyneton Community House. It is free for U3A members. Heather Potter can provide further details.
• The day excursion to see the “Elvis” screening at the Baringo Hotel, New Gibson. Members can enrol into course no.2295 at a cost of $50/person.
• A group excursion to Elvis exhibition at the Bendigo Art Gallery is also planned for 29^th June.

Assistance with enrolments for courses can be emailed to John, our U3A Kyneton Course Coordinator.
 

Our next Friday@U3A will be Dr. Rose French, Associate Professor and Honorary Principal Fellow at the Burnet Institute. With the topic “Covid-19 – Vaccines and Pandemics”.
 
Rose is a highly experienced principal scientist, with a deep knowledge of infectious diseases, immunology, diagnostics, and vaccines. She will draw upon her professional expertise, developed during her career as a medical researcher, teacher at Monash University and advisor to the Therapeutic Goods Administration authority and the World Health Organisation.
 
Come along and find out how we have almost beaten Covid and what might be the next big thing. And please feel free to bring a friend – you do not have to be a U3A Kyneton member to attend Friday@U3A.  
 
Below is a photo of the peaceful Lake Sanitorium where U3A Kyneton is planning to visit later in the year.



Roni Taubman
Secretary
email
5422 2552

Dear Members,
 
Last Friday@U3A we all enjoyed singing with Adam Przewlocki. Adam’s vision for the renaissance of the U3A Kyneton choir was inspiring and further information will be advised soon.
 
The U3A Kyneton Annual General Meeting will be held on 12^th August at 2.00pm in the Red Brick Hall.  At that time all Committee positions will be open for re-election.  We are specifically asking for expressions of interest for a Treasurer and Secretary as the incumbents have advised they will not be continuing in these voluntary roles. Further information can be obtained via EMAIL.

• Men’s Kitchen will NOT be held this week – with further details to be advised.
• The next Music course will be on 23^rd May.
• The 2 Intermediate French classes will be combined for the next 3 weeks and held at 11.30am on 9^th, 16^th and 23^rd May.
• Planning is under way for a course in Computers, phones and TVs, which will be held at the Kyneton Community House and free for U3A members. Further information can be found via this LINK.
• A screening of Films starring the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley will be held at the Baringo Hotel, New Gisborne on 1^st June commencing at 10.00am with “GI Blues” followed by a special lunch featuring American drugstore food.  After lunch additional Elvis films will be shown and an afternoon tea will end the day. Members can enrol into course no.2295. The cost for the day will be $50/person.
• A group excursion to Elvis exhibition at the Bendigo Art Gallery is also planned for 29^th June – further details to be advised.

Please be aware that some course dates may overlap and clash if being held at different locations.  Course absences can be advised by logging into UMAS for members using your membership no. and password and selecting ‘My Absences’ from the left-hand menu, choosing the dates of absence and by pressing ‘submit’. This will send an email to the respective tutor.

Our next Friday@U3A will be Charlotte Roberts with the topic “The Musicality of People and Nature”. Charlotte is a body-based vocal, rhythm and music artist. She is the composer of ‘Mt. Macedon’s Murmuring Walk’, the ‘In Your Arms babies and carer’ project and the creator ‘The Musical Body Process’. Charlotte will talk about her work and lead us in some simple body, voice and rhythm exercises that are part of her teaching in the local community.  Come along to a enjoy a unique and exceptional musical experience.

Here are our happy dog walkers enjoying the Campaspe River walk
 


Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members
 
A ‘welcome to new members’ gathering was held on Friday and provided a small sample of U3A courses on offer.  A substantial afternoon tea followed, and the afternoon gave everyone a chance to meet new friends and to reconnect with previous acquaintances. Thank you so very much to everybody who presented and all who made the afternoon so enjoyable.  If anyone needs assistance with registering for or information about U3A courses, please contact John/Roni on 0439 360 763 or email.


 
There are several additional programs being explored, with further details to be announced soon.

• The Plant Propagation course commences today.
• Our Low Impact exercise class also resumes today.
• The U3A Kyneton Committee will meet on 4^th May.
• An Emergency Management course is being held on 6^th May and there are still a few vacancies. This is not a ‘hands on’ session but is an overview of what to do and how to manage an emergency before professional help arrives.
• Stephen Carisbrooke’s Propaganda course is commencing on 27^th May.
• Slow Cooking with Linda: this has been rescheduled to 8^th, 15^th and 22^nd June.
• The Horse in Art class has been confirmed for 20^th and 27^th  July, and 3^rd August.
• Bird Observers will not meet in May, with their next gathering on 23^rd June.

Friday@U3A – Friday 6 May.
 
Topic – Meet Mr Adam Przewlocki and sing your heart out.
 
Adam is known as the choir man of the Macedon Ranges. He will show some videos about the choirs he works with, take us through some vocal warm-ups and teach us a song.
 
Come along for some singing fun and a vision for the renaissance of the U3A Kyneton choir.


Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

ANZAC day – lest we forget
 
Dear Members,
The ‘new members afternoon tea’ will be held this Friday, 29^th April, at the Red Brick Hall at 2.00pm. Everyone is invited, so come along to give a big welcome to all our new U3A Kyneton members. U3A Kyneton tutors and activity leaders will be delivering short briefings:

• Robert Rouse and Poetry group members will give a performance of spoken word poetry from Kae Tempest’s dramatic poem ‘Brand New Ancients’;
• Bushwalking leader, John Butselaar, will talk about walking in the footsteps of the nineteenth century miners and other walking adventures;
• ‘Look on the bright side of life’ will be Stephen Carisbrooke’s introduction to his forthcoming course about life in North Korea;
• Ruth Gallpen will de-mystify Mah Jong;
• Mike McColl will expand on the athletic highs of table tennis;
• Helga Ohlmus will persuade you to join the cycling group;
• To make all this possible Roni Taubman will explain UMAS – our computer program and how to use it stress free, and how to register for the program of your choice.

Everyone is invited to join us to welcome our new U3A Kyneton members, enjoy a slap up afternoon tea and explore U3A Kyneton’s possibilities.

• Audio issues at the Red Brick Hall: The Committee have been aware for some time that people sitting far back from the audio source have had great difficulty following the proceedings. There have also been a few complaints about the soundbar amplifying the bass register at the expense of the treble register. At its last meeting, the Committee decided to use the stage as it was designed to be used in 1898. The stage is a raised platform with a solid wall behind it and the acoustic properties of the hall were built to accommodate it. After the President secured approval of the Shire Council, Andrew McDowall organised moving the large television to the stage, where it is now located along with the sound equipment. Andrew has also adjusted the sound bar settings to cut back on the bass register (thank you Andrew). Hopefully, you will notice the improvement.
• Intermediate French classes will be held tomorrow, 26^th April (due to ANZAC day) and Tai Chi will also recommence.
• Table tennis on Friday afternoons: Our table tennis players have decided to trial a second session from 4:15 to 5:30 each Friday from 29th April. If anyone wants to stay on after Friday@U3A please feel free to join in.
• Slow cooking with Linda (course no. 2209): this 3-week course starting on 4^th May will cover the Linda’ s exclusive tips and tricks of how to Slow Cook Meat to perfection including lamb, beef and pork. We need a couple more members to enrol to make this viable. Please enrol online or EMAIL to register your interest.
• An ‘Australian Colonial Art’ course has been proposed (where participants offer ideas and opinions). If you would be interested in this, please let us know by EMAIL or call John on 0439 360 763.
• For those who attended last Friday@U3A and want more information about Athol Guy’s recent work on the ‘KUBE project’, it can be found via –https://www.kubesosearth.com.au

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

Wishing the best Easter greetings to all members and tutors.

• As it is the Easter period, Mah Jong, Tai Chi and Schubertlieder will not be held this week.
• Participants have been advised that the Social Golf course will not be continuing.
• French classes will recommence on 20^th April.
• The Low Impact Exercise class will not be held on 18^th or 25^th April, and will recommence on 2^nd May (an extra 2 classes will be held at the end to make up the missed sessions).
• Poetry is also being held on Tuesday this week (please note change of day).
• If you are passing the Mollison Street Community window located between the Post Office and the Town Hall, take a moment to look at the great U3A Kyneton photos etc. on display.
• We would like to improve the quality of U3A Kyneton’s video productions. Any assistance from members with expertise in video recording, editing lighting and sound would be greatly appreciated. If you can help, please contact info@u3akyneton.org.au or 0439 360 763.
• A ‘new members afternoon tea’ will be held on 29^th April at the Red Brick Hall at 2.00pm. Everyone is invited, so come along to give a big welcome to all our new U3A Kyneton members. 

This week’s Friday@U3A presenter (22^nd April) will be Athol Guy with the topic “The Seekers and the Swinging Sixties”. Athol was a foundation member of The Seekers. He will tell us about the group and his life then as a singer and double bass player, with Australia’s iconic and first international musical group. Be there for a trip down memory lane and a live performance.
 
Below is a photo of our Poetry group enjoying some sunshine and social interaction.




Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552
 

Dear Members,

• As it is school holidays for the next two weeks, Mah Jong and Tai Chi are taking a break from classes.
• The 1^st session of Board & Card games has finished, and a second session is commencing on 27^th April. To join the course or continue, members will need to enrol into course no. 2288 – there is no charge.
• The charge for an ‘official’ First Aid course is expensive. The Committee has discussed an appropriate alternative and agreed to rename it to ‘Emergency Management’ (course no. 2267). It will be conducted by the Course Coordinator who has a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, however members will not receive certification. The course will now be held on 6^th May, 9am-12.00pm at the Red Brick Hall. It will focus on what to do in emergency situations, how to provide basic first aid, how to use an AED, (there is one in the Red Brick Hall) and how to provide basic life support in any environment. It will be free for members.
• There will be a ‘new members afternoon tea’ on 29^th April at the Red Brick Hall at 2.00pm. All members and tutors are invited, so let’s all join together to provide a huge ‘WELCOME to our new members.  For catering purposes, please enroll into course no. 2270 (or respond via EMAIL).

                                        Timetable 11-15 April

On Friday, 15th April, there will be no Friday@U3A as it is Good Friday.

Our Friday@U3A presenter on 22nd April will be Athol Guy with the topic “The Seekers and the Swinging Sixties”. Athol was a foundation member of The Seekers. He will tell us about the group and his life then as a singer and double bass player, with Australia’s iconic and first international musical group. Be there for a trip down memory lane and a live performance.

Below is a photo of the ‘Men’s Kitchen’ crowd enjoying their gourmet cuisine



Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552
 

Dear Members,

The video last Friday presented by Stephen and Michael opened our eyes to Cuneiform Writing with Irving Finkel. If you would like to see it again or watch it for the first time, HERE is the link to the video on YouTube.

There was an accident at the Red Brick Hall last Friday where the table collapsed. It was set up for afternoon tea with the urn and hot water, tea and coffee etc.  I can advise that, thankfully, Stephen did not suffer any major injury and is doing well. Thank you very much to everyone who assisted on the day. The table has now been placed outside the building so it cannot be used.

French classes will not be held until 20^th April and participants have been notified.

The International Folk Dancing class will not be held today. Further sessions are planned for May/June.  When this is confirmed, members will need to re-enrol into the class.

The Low Impact Exercise-2 class is now commencing on 11^th April for 8 weeks and is open for any other interested members.

There will be no Mah Jong or Tai Chi during the school holiday period. If any other classes are NOT continuing, please email to advise our Course Coordinator.

Could new members please save the date of 29 April for a ‘welcoming’ afternoon tea.

                                    Timetable 4th – 8th April

Our Friday@U3A presenter this week will be Simon Clarke, the Macedon Ranges Shire Council’s Coordinator of Arts and Culture, talking about the cultural program – his plans and new directions for it. Simon has over 25 years’ experience in the arts, chiefly focused on community engagement, emerging artists and youth audiences. Arts and Culture has flourished in the Macedon Ranges, and is set to grow further, so come along to hear more about proposed cultural events.

Below is a photo of the happy Coffee Club members at the Jack High Bar and Bistro



Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552
 

Dear Members,
This is a friendly reminder for anyone who has not yet renewed their U3A Kyneton membership for 2022 to please do so to keep receiving the Wotzon newsletter.  Please contact us if help is needed to renew membership and/or enrol in courses – assistance is always available via email or call John/Roni on 0439 360 763.

• There are a couple of spaces available for the second Low Impact Exercise-2 which will commence on Monday, 4th April for $40/person. These 8- week sessions are filled with entertainment and conducted by a professional trainer.
• Our Board and Card Games sessions are continuing at 10.30am and have now moved to Jack High Bar and Bistro, 1^st floor of the Bowling Club (a temporary location for Angie’s Café) on Wednesdays. If you would like to enjoy yourself, come along to join in the fun.
• The final session of Digital Literacy will be held on Wednesday at the Red Brick Hall.
• Could Tutors please email to advise if they are NOT continuing classes throughout the forthcoming School Holiday period.
• An Afternoon Tea for all new members will be held on 29 April – further details will be advised soon.

 
Our Friday@U3A this week will be a video presentation with the topic ‘Cracking Ancient Codes: Cuneiform Writing’ by Irving Finkel – originally given at the Royal Society in London. The video will be introduced by our own cuneiform writing experts, Stephen Carisbrooke and Michael McColl. Come along and find out how the ancient Mesopotamians created the paperless office. 
 
Below are some of our adventuresome U3A Kyneton Bushwalkers


Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members

Thank you everyone who attended a most successful and constructive orientation day for Tutors last Friday. As mentioned on Friday, our website provides a considerable amount of information about U3A Kyneton (e.g. Committee members, Tutor profiles, previous Wotzon newsletters, how to view courses,  login to the membership database etc.) and is available for everyone 24 hours a day. There is also a U3A Kyneton Facebook page which is a restricted group and specifically open to members.

To compensate members for missing our regular Friday@U3A, Friday afternoon sessions will continue throughout the school holidays, with the exception of Good Friday (15^th April).

For members who have not yet continued their U3A Kyneton membership, this is a friendly reminder to please renew it by the end of the month. Please contact us if help is needed to renew membership and/or enrol in courses – assistance is always available via email or call John/Roni on 0439 360 763.

• The second Low Impact Exercise-2 is starting on Monday, 4th April. Please register your interest in this course HERE. The 8-week sessions are filled with fun, specifically tailored for U3A participants and run by a professional trainer.
• As previously mentioned, the Apartheid course will now commence on 7th September and is still open for further enrolments.
• Our Board and Card Games sessions are continuing at 10.30am in the Red Brick Hall on Wednesdays. If you would like to enjoy yourself, come along to join in the fun.
• U3A Kyneton has a spare iPad available for any member to trial. Please contact any member of the Committee if you would like to see if an iPad would assist you to develop online skills.

 
Our Friday@U3A this week will be a presentation from our U3A Vice President and former submariner, John Taubman who will explain “What’s it like to live and survive in a submarine” and strategic thinking to base Australia’s new nuclear submarines on our east coast.
 
Below is a photo of our spectacular folk dancers who are swinging along to the rhythm of the dance



Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Hello Members,

This Friday, 18^th March, will be a skills-building and briefing day for tutors, at the Red Brick Hall from 10am – 4.00pm. This is a day for all tutors both past and present and for anyone that might be thinking of becoming a tutor. Please contact us HERE if you are interested in attending. To compensate for missing our regular Friday@U3A this week, Friday afternoon sessions will continue throughout the school holidays with the exception of Good Friday (15^th April).

Code RED days: The CFA Fire Danger Rating of ‘Code Red‘ is the highest level of rating in Victoria. It signifies the worst conditions for grassfires and bushfires. Code Red ratings are only called for days of extraordinary and extremely dangerous conditions. In Victoria, a Code Red day is called by the Emergency Management Commissioner. The Committee approved a “Code Red” policy at their last meeting.  This effectively means there will be no U3A Kyneton courses held on “Code Red” days. The link to this policy (and all other U3A Kyneton policies) can be viewed HERE.

Just a friendly reminder – If anyone has not renewed their U3A Kyneton membership by the end of the month, their details will be removed from the Wotzon distribution. Please contact us if any assistance is needed to renew membership and/or enrol in courses.

• The Low Impact Exercise class and Mah Jong will NOT be held today due to the public holiday.
• The Apartheid course will now commence on 7th September and participants have been notified.  This interesting course is still open for further enrolments.
• Poetry has changed dates to now meet on the 3^rd Tuesday in the month commencing 19 April.
• Our Board and Card Games sessions have commenced at 10.30am in the Red Brick Hall on Wednesdays and is lots of fun. Just grab a game, pick an opponent or two and enjoy yourself.
• Coffee Club: is being held at the Jack High Bar & Bistro, 61-79 Mollison St., Kyneton at 10.30am each Wednesday. It is run by Angie’s Café which is being renovated after the recent flood.
• Digital Literacy will not be held this Wednesday as the tutor is in NSW for emergency response work with the current flood situation.
• The next Low Impact Exercise class in starting in April, providing there is enough interest. This is a FUN program, suitable for everyone, with a professional trainer who tailors specific exercises for the 70s over 8-weeks at a cost of $40 per person. You can either enrol in the course online or register your interest HERE.

 
The following Friday@U3A (25th March) will be a presentation from our U3A Vice President and former submariner, John Taubman who will explain “What’s it like to live in a submarine” and strategic thinking to base Australia’s new nuclear submarines on our east coast.

Here is a photo of our awesome cycling group out and about in the Macedon Ranges


Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members

Tutors delivering courses, leading excursions and giving presentations are the heart of any U3A. This is particularly the case at U3A Kyneton where our numerous volunteer tutors provide for our members in an unprecedented program.  In recognition of this Kyneton U3A Committee has declared 2022 the ‘Year of the Tutor’. Last Friday@U3A celebrated this with a special afternoon tea. Jan and Doug McIver spoke about the origin and history of U3A Kyneton and its vital contribution to life in Kyneton. Thank you Jan and Doug for your most informative and stimulating talk. Our voluntary tutors are the life blood of U3A and provide members with a wide-ranging program. A link to some photos taken at the afternoon tea by Heather is HERE. 

 
An in-service program especially for our tutors will be held on 18 March and Invitations and all new, current and recent tutors will be invited to the workshop.

U3A Kyneton is also celebrating our Tutors’ by preparing some individual profiles. To find out more about the interesting background of a tutor, please CLICK HERE and then select the arrow next to their name.

• Regrettably, the Apartheid course will not start tomorrow due to illness and participants have been advised. Further details will be advised at a later date.
• The Armchair Travel to Mediaeval Europe program commences on Tuesday this week at 2.00pm.
• Coffee Club: is relocating to the Jack High Bar & Bistro, 61-79 Mollison St., Kyneton at 10.30am each Wednesday. It is managed by Angie’s Café which is being renovated after the recent flood. Entry is via the Kyneton Bowling Club from the concrete walkway entrance in between the lawn greens. There are stairs and a lift to the first floor. Everyone is welcome, so come along to enjoy a coffee and chat and to especially support our local community.
• There are some vacancies for the Board and Card game sessions starting on Wednesday this week at 10.30am at the Red Brick Hall. Come along to enjoy some games in a relaxed social atmosphere.
• Digital Literacy sessions are ongoing on Wednesdays at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall. This week will focus on how to be safe – Getting online – Online banking, Shopping and Social Media; there is an iPad available for loan for any member who would like to trial utilising the internet;
• The International Folk Dancing course is being extended for 4 more sessions commencing on 14 March.  Your tutor will be in touch with details.
• The next Men’s Kitchen has been changed from 9^th to 16^th March.
• A French Travel class is commencing on 6^th April for anyone who planning to travel this year.

For any queries about enrolment into courses, HELP is always available at the end of the phone or email. Please contact John/Roni on 0439 360 763.  We know that U3A membership system, U-MAS (University Membership Administration System) – some may call it “something else !!'” as it can be frustrating and challenging, but it is the structure that U3A Network recommends. We are always available to help with any query.
 
Membership name badges, plastic holders and lanyards are now available from the Red Brick Hall on Fridays at 1.30pm. Please advise if this not a suitable time and other arrangements can be made.

Our next Friday@U3A will highlight the Walk On By – the story of popular song – Part 1. This will be a video screening of the first of the well-known series, commencing with music and songs from the early twentieth century. Come along for a nostalgic musical trip, with performances of songs which have endured down the decades, sung by the stars of the past.

Here is this week’s timetable:

Dear Members

Tutors delivering courses, leading excursions and giving presentations are the heart of any U3A. This is particularly the case at U3A Kyneton where our numerous volunteer tutors provide for our members in an unprecedented program.  In recognition of this Kyneton U3A Committee has declared 2022 the ‘Year of the Tutor’.
 
Friday@U3A on 4 March at 2.00pm will celebrate this with a special catered afternoon tea and a presentation from Jan and Doug McIver about U3AKyneton, its formation and contribution to life in Kyneton.
 
Our tutors have been especially invited to attend so please join us at the Red Brick Hall for a celebration. Everyone is welcome.

• Coffee Club: as Angie’s cafe is currently being renovated, Coffee Club is being currently being held at the Barry Doyle Rotunda, Kyneton at 10.30am each week;
• The Schubertlieder program commences on 1^st March at 2.00pm and participants will hear some songs by Franz Schubert;
• Digital Literacy sessions are being held weekly on Wednesdays at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall. The next session will focus on how to be safe – Privacy, Protection and Scam Awareness; there is an iPad available for loan for any member who would like to trial utilising the internet;
• Board & Card games sessions are starting on 9^th March and there are still some spaces available. These sessions will be all about playing and enjoying the company of others and is not a teaching course, so brush off your talents to have some fun in a relaxed socialised environment;
• The next Men’s Kitchen course has been changed from 9^th to 16^th March due to the availability of the Glenlyon Hall;
• A French Travel class is commencing on 6^th April. This will be a useful course for anyone who might be planning to travel this year now that the borders are opening. 

The U3A Kyneton Committee holds regular monthly meetings, and the March meeting is being held this Wednesday. At its meeting on 2^nd February the U3A Kyneton Committee accepted with regret Jan McColl’s resignation from the Committee. Jan’s outstanding contribution to the promotions and public relations portfolio has been invaluable and will be sorely missed. Thank you, Jan, for your help in raising the profile of U3A Kyneton.
 
Membership name badges, plastic holders and lanyards are now available and can be collected on Fridays at the Red Brick Hall at 1.30pm.
Comprehensive course details and information can be found via the U3A Kyneton website or by calling John/Roni on 0439 360 763 who will be happy to assist you. Below is this week’s timetable:

Below is a photo taken last week of the U3A Kyneton  very happy ‘Lunch Club’ members
 



Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Hello Members,
 
On 4th March there will be a special afternoon tea at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall for members to recognise our tutors, the driving force of U3A Kyneton. Last year the 2021 U3A tutors were tasked with verifying members of their class(es) who had been fully (double) vaccinated. This enabled the vaccination details to be recorded for each individual in the U-MAS membership system. The tutors’ voluntary contribution and time during the difficult COVID period is greatly respected and appreciated. Their involvement is highly valued and assists the goal of ‘lifelong learning’ for all members.  As the afternoon tea will be held on a regular Friday@U3A (Friday 4th March), members do not need to register, but please come along to say a big thank you to our tutors.
 
Coffee Club: as Angie’s Cafe is still being renovated and it will be some time until we can return to that location, coffee club is meeting on Wednesdays at 10.30am at the Barry Doyle rotunda. Come along to discuss where the best place to meet during this interim period might be – the rotunda or somewhere else?
 
U3A Kyneton Window Display: if you think the display promoting U3A Kyneton has disappeared, that’s not the case! It will be re-mounted again next week in the Mollison Street Community window, located between the post office and the town hall.
 
This week’s courses include:

• Monday:
  • French: Intermediate 1 and 2
  • International Folk Dancing
  • Golf Croquet
  • Mah Jong
  • Low Impact Exercise
• Tuesday
  • Cycling (9am start, Beauchamp St, opposite Home Hardware)
  • Tai Chi
• Wednesday:
  • French: Beginners and Advanced
  • Coffee Club
  • Digital Literacy
  • Table Tennis
• Thursday
  • Bird Observers
  • Dog Walking
  • Lunch Club
• Friday
  • Picnic Cycling
  • Friday@U3A

Plastic holders and lanyards have been ordered and will be available next week. U3A Kyneton membership badges will be available for collection at 1.30pm at the Red Brick Hall, before the start of the Friday@U3A session. Please wear your membership badge (whenever practical) when attending a U3A course.

This week, 25th February, our Friday@U3A session at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall will be Ross Turnbull – Executive Officer, Working Heritage, the organisation selected by the State Government to develop and manage the old Kyneton primary school. Ross’s presentation will be about Working Heritage, its role in preserving Victoria’s built heritage and the plans being made for Kyneton’s historic school buildings. This is an opportunity to hear it from the horse’s mouth.

Thanks to our tutor, Sarah Brooke, for the photo below – is there too much fun happening in the folk dancing class?  There will hopefully be another edition of this course, so watch out for an announcement soon in Wotzon to see when the next session is starting.


Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members, 

U3A Kyneton Window Display: a display promoting U3A Kyneton has been mounted in the Mollison Street Community window, located between the post office and the town hall. When you next pass by, take a look as you might find yourself there! U3A is very fortunate to have Rachel Ellis, the NBN’s Local Community Ambassador, visit the Macedon Ranges. Rachel lives and works in regional Western Victoria and is volunteering her time to help U3A Kyneton to assist members with their online skills. She is providing U3A Kyneton with six weekly information seminars and the first is being held on 16 February, at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall. The sessions include a focus on setting up devices, staying safe on the internet, online banking assistance, scams and much more. Further details about each seminar can be viewed HERE. You can enrol online HERE  into course 2279 Digital Literacy, by email info@u3akyneton.org.au or by calling John (Course Coordinator) or Roni (Secretary) via 0439 360 763.U3A also has an iPad that is available for ‘loan’ for members, so please advise if you are interested in trialling this device.

This week’s courses include:

• Monday:
  • French: Intermediate 1 and 2
  • International Folk Dancing
  • Golf Croquet
  • Mah Jong
  • Music
  • Low Impact Exercise
• Tuesday
  • Cycling
  • Tai Chi
• Wednesday:
  • French: Beginners and Advanced
  • Coffee Club (at the Barry Doyle Rotunda this week)
  • Digital Literacy
  • Table Tennis
• Thursday
  • Bushwalking
  • Dog Walking
  • Current Affairs
  • Film Club
• Friday
  • Picnic Cycling
  • Friday@U3A 

Badges: the 2022 U3A Kyneton badges will again be ready for collection at 1.30pm, before the Friday@U3A session. Some additional plastic holders and lanyards for badges have been ordered and will be available soon. Please wear the badge (whenever practical) when attending a U3A course.

Our next Friday@U3A session will be at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall. Join us for the ultimate outback road trip, where Dr. Richard Smith brings us into the Australia we know today. This is the conclusion of the popular ABC DVD series “Australia – the Time Traveller’s Guide”, screened from time-to-time last year.  This is your opportunity to complete the journey!
 
Below is a photo of some beaming Coffee Club members who were ‘watching the birdy’!  (photo by Robert Rouse)
 
 
 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
mobile: 0439 360 763

Dear Members,

A huge welcome to all members of U3A – 2022 is off and running.  We particularly acknowledge all U3A volunteers especially our tutors who provide their valuable time and contribution.
U3A Kyneton Inc. is a community group within the Macedon Ranges that operates within The Incorporation Reform Act 2012 – the ‘Model Rules’.  It is an incorporated association and states it’s own purposes as follows:

‘U3A Kyneton provides continuing learning, physical activity, and social and community interaction. Wherever possible this will be achieved by utilising members’ skills, contributions and resources. U3A Kyneton primarily caters for members in the third age of life and no educational qualifications are required or given.’

Enrolments into courses are continuing and can always be made by logging into U3A Kyneton membership system HERE (you will need your membership number and password to log in) . Help is available by email via members@u3akyneton.org.au. For HELP by phone, please call 0439 360 763.

• Coffee Club will be at the Barry Doyle Rotunda again this week
• The photography group will be held on the 2^nd Thursday of each month.
• Feel free to join the picnic cycling group even if you haven’t been on a bike for a while.
• Social Golf also starts this week.

This week’s courses include (further information can be accessed HERE with the course details at the bottom of the page)

• Monday:
  • French: Intermediate 1 and 2
  • International Folk Dancing
  • Golf Croquet
  • Mah Jong
  • Low Impact Exercise
  • Social Golf
• Tuesday
  • Cycling
  • Tai Chi
• Wednesday:
  • French: Beginners and Advanced
  • Men’s Kitchen
  • Coffee Club
  • Table Tennis
• Thursday
  • Dog Walking
  • Photography
  • Poetry
  • Book Circle
• Friday
  • Picnic Cycling
  • Friday@U3A

Badges: the 2022 U3A Kyneton badges will be available for collection at 1.30pm, before the Friday@U3A session. Please wear the badge (whenever practical) when attending a U3A course.

There is no charge for the Friday sessions, no need to register, and visitors are always welcome.

Our next Friday@U3A session will be at 2.00pm on 11 February in the Red Brick Hall with a presentation by – The Hon. Mary-Anne Thomas, Member for Macedon, Minister for Agriculture and Minister for Regional Development. Mary-Anne will talk about the hot topic “Farming and Climate Change – the role of Victoria’s farming sector in achieving net zero emissions by 2050”. 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

U3A Kyneton is off and running with a number of courses commencing this week. The 2022 U3A Kyneton Course Book can be viewed HERE, however enrolments need to be made via the U3A Kyneton website HERE:
 
Some courses have been modified:

• The ‘Horse in Art’ course will be held later in the year and dates will be advertised via Wotzon;
• French Enrolment: French courses have been divided into Advanced, Intermediate and Beginners classes by the Tutor;
• French Travel: this course will start in April and is for beginners who are looking forward to travelling later in the year;
• Picnic Cycling now has an earlier start time of 10am. Feel free to join in even if you haven’t been on a bike for a bit to meander slowly down the Campaspe River;
• A photography group for recreational photographers can commence if there is enough interest. Please advise if you would like to further explore your talent to create exceptional photos.

This week’s courses include:

• French classes:
  • Mondays:10am Intermediate-1; 11am Intermediate-2;
  • Wednesdays: 10am Beginners; 11am Advanced;
• Low Impact Exercise – Monday, 2.00pm at Xist Gym;
• Cycling starts on Tuesday at 9.30am;
• Tai Chi is also on Tuesday at 2.00pm;
• Coffee Club will meet this week on Wednesday at the Barry Doyle Rotunda at 10.30am
• The U3A Kyneton Committee is meeting on Wednesday at 2.00pm. Please advise if there is anything you would like to add to the Agenda;
• Table Tennis is on Wednesday at the Red Brick Hall, starting at 4.30pm;
• Bushwalking also commences on Thursday at 8.30am
• The Dog Walking group meets on Thursday at 9.30am and walks along the Campaspe River;
• Current Affairs is at the Red Brick Hall on Thursday at 10.00am
• Film Club is also on Thursday at the Red Brick Hall starting at 2.00pm
• Picnic Cycling starts on Friday at 10am.

Badges: the 2022 U3A Kyneton badges will be available for collection at 1.30pm, before the Friday@U3A session. Please wear the badge (whenever practical) when attending a U3A course.

Facebook: all members are welcome to join the U3A Kyneton Facebook page.

Our regular Friday@U3A sessions will commence at 2.00pm on 04 February in the Red Brick Hall with a presentation by Paul Dettman, CEO of Cassinia Environmental. He will talk about the purpose of Cassinia – to create landscapes which are both productive and ecologically resilient. Working mainly in Victoria, Cassinia has permanently protected almost 20,000 acres of unique Australian environment. Paul is also founder of the Social Foundry, located in the heart of Kyneton. The Social Foundry was set up to provide mentoring and share life skills with young people in the Kyneton community. Come along o register, and hear about these unique enterprises.

The Friday afternoon sessions are free for members and there is no need to register. Visitors are also welcome to attend, so feel free to bring a friend along too.

 Come along to join the picnic cycling group even if you haven’t been on a bike for a while


Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

Enrolments in courses are filling fast! The 2022 U3A Kyneton Course Book can be viewed HERE and a summary course spreadsheet can be seen HERE. One course must be selected to initiate the subscription charge. Payment for can be made online, by cheque or cash to the Kyneton Bendigo Bank BSB 633 000: Account number 127411064. Payments made at the Bendigo Bank or by cheque will need to include your name and membership number for identification purposes. Cheques can also be mailed to: U3A Kyneton, PO Box 1321, Kyneton VIC 3444.

Several courses are already full: 2201 Bird Observers; 2215 Mah Jong; 2226 Bushwalking; 2239 Exercise – Low Impact 1; 2241 Walking tour of historic Kyneton; Men’s Kitchen-1; 2275 Cryptic Crossword solving and 2276 Armchair travel to medieval Europe. The course on ‘The Horse in Art’ will now be held later in the year. If enrolling in any of the full courses, members will be wait-listed until further advice from the tutor.
 
There are still vacancies in some courses:

• 2283 Photography group: This course is for recreational photographers. Sessions will alternate between discussion/learning sessions at the Red Brick Hall and field trips. It will cover focus and exposure for better quality photos and explore editing, printing and different types of print media;
• 2264 Picnic Cycling: the rides make slow-cycling an art form on quiet paths and lanes to appreciate the scenery at a leisurely pace;
• 2274 Social Golf: Golf is held at various locations around the Macedon Ranges and course fees apply depending on each location.

This week’s courses:

• French: The Tutor has advised participants which class to attend. Meet outside the Grist Bakery early to buy coffee before the session starts;
  • Mondays:10am Intermediate-1; 11am Intermediate-2;
  • Wednesdays: 10am Beginners; 11am Advanced
• Low Impact Exercise;
• (No ‘official’ Coffee Club this week due to the public holiday)
• Table Tennis (still meeting on the public holiday);
• Dog Walking and
• Photography group.

Our regular Friday@U3A sessions will commence at 2.00pm on 04 February in the Red Brick Hall with a presentation by Paul Dettman, CEO of Cassinia Environmental.


Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members

WELCOME to our new members and a thank you to everyone who re-enrolled last week. There is no time limit to enrol in courses, however, the most popular get booked out quite fast.  If you haven’t enrolled yet and would like to do so, HERE is the link to the website to register for this year and to enrol in courses.  If you are having any difficulty, please email members@u3akyneton.org.au (or phone – 0439 360 763).
 
There have been some amendments to the following courses: 2202 Book Circle; 2255 French; 2213 Music and 2210 Poetry. An updated Course Book can be viewed HERE and a summary course/enrolment sheet can be seen HERE.
 
The Waiting List has been removed from Course No. 2202 Book Circle and 2239 Exercise – Low Impact 1 (starting 24 January), so could members now please pay for these courses.
 
One course must be selected to initiate the subscription charge. Payment for can be made online, by cheque or cash to the Kyneton Bendigo Bank BSB 633 000: Account number 127411064. Payments made at the Bendigo Bank or by cheque will need to include your name and membership number for identification purposes. Cheques can also be mailed to: U3A Kyneton, PO Box 1321, Kyneton VIC 3444.

Courses commencing this week include Coffee Club, 10.30am at the Barry Doyle Rotunda; Table Tennis at 4.30pm (in the Red Brick Hall) and Dog Walking at 9.30am, in the Kyneton Botanical Gardens. Please contact members@u3akyneton.org.au if there are any queries regarding the above courses.

Our regular Friday@U3A sessions are scheduled to commence at 2.00pm on 04 February in the Red Brick Hall.


 
Above are some Coffee Club members enjoying the sunshine – all members are welcome – see you there 🙂
 
Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

We are excited to present a wide range of courses for selection in 2022. 

Committee news: Sadly, our President, Peter Johnson, has resigned from the Committee for personal reasons. We are extremely sorry to lose Peter and his expertise. I’m sure everyone joins me in wishing Peter the very best for the future. The Committee formally accepted his resignation on 05 January 2022 and thanked Peter for his years of service to U3A, specifically noting his hard work in securing U3A a “home” to hold courses in the Red Brick Hall and for substantially increasing the U3A membership within the Macedon Ranges. We are very pleased that both Peter and Linda are continuing as members and tutors of U3A.

With Peter’s departure, at the Committee meeting on 05 January, and in accordance with the Model Rules for an Incorporated Association, Alan Moor was elected as President and John Taubman was elected as Vice President. There is no change to the rest of the Committee.

Enrolment Day: At the meeting on 05 January, the Committee took a very hard decision not to hold a face-to-face Enrolment Day but instead, to conduct enrolment for 2022 online with a HELP LINE to be established for any member unable to enrol online. This was deemed necessary in current circumstances to diminish any risk to members. The decision was not taken lightly and may inconvenience some members and for this we sincerely apologise.

To assist everyone to view the 2022 courses and select which ones to enrol in, please follow this LINK to the 2022 Course Booklet. A summary of courses showing dates, frequency and costs can also be accessed via this HERE.

Online enrolments can be made via the U3A Kyneton website: HERE. Use your membership no. and password to login.

When enrolling online, please remember to enrol in at least one course to initiate the subscription renewal ($40). Your subscription and any additional course fees will appear on the invoice when checking out the cart. 

The HELP DESK is open to for enrolments at the times below 10-14 January instead of a one day face-to-face Enrolment Day and members will be able to call one of the Committee members to request assistance (please note dates and times). 

10th-14th January, 9am-11am
Roni Taubman 5422 2552
John Taubman 0439 360 763

11th-14th January, 10am-12pm
Paul Reid 5422 2429

10th-13th January, 10am-12pm and
14th January 2pm-4pm
Stephen Carisbrooke 0488 083 887

Alternatively, an email requesting assistance can be emailed to: members@u3akyneton.org.au

Payment can be made online, by cheque or cash to the Kyneton Bendigo Bank:
Bendigo Bank
BSB                        633 000
Account number     127411064

Payments made at the Bendigo Bank or by cheque will need to include your name and membership number to the payment reference for identification purposes.

Cheques can also be mailed to: U3A Kyneton, PO Box 1321,Kyneton VIC 3444.

THANK YOU PETER FOR  ALL YOUR HARD WORK

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

Thank you to all who attended and braved the cold wind at our U3A Christmas Party which was held on a very blustery day at the Malmsbury Reservoir.  At least it didn’t rain and it was a wonderful opportunity for members to socialise and enjoy the bbq lunch. Our thanks go to Hardwicks for partly sponsoring the meat and to the RSL for providing the onions – both being essential for a bbq.

Lost and Found:
A green folding picnic chair is missing, so if you discover you have an additional chair please call 5422 2552.

A folding picnic chair was left after the U3A Christmas Party at Malmsbury Reservoir on Friday. Blue and white fabric, emblazoned with the word “Kangaroos”. If it’s yours please call 5422 2429.

Courses:
Courses for 2022 are being finalised and you can view the list by following the link HERE.  Full course details will be available via the U3A Kyneton website on 10 January.

Below is some information from Paul Reid for those enrolled in Course 2171, First Nations History in the Macedon Ranges: 

• The last meeting for the year is at the Kyneton Museum, 67 Piper Street, at 10 am on Tuesday 14th December, to see the new exhibition, A Biodiversity Crisis: Animals and plants of the Macedon Ranges. Gain insight into the current state of local fauna and flora, and find out what has been changed, endangered or lost since the coming of White settlers. We might also find out about the roles that Indigenous groups have in the preservation and rehabilitation of the country
  
  Some members are planning a picnic afterwards, under the rotunda by the river near the Piper Street bridge. There’s a free barbecue there, too. Last month we were invited by the MRSC to take part in forming a local Reconciliation Group. We can talk about that while we picnic.
   

Unless otherwise advised, this is the last official week of U3A courses, and this week includes: French, Mah Jong, Music, Social Walking, First Nations History (as above), Tai Chi, Coffee Club, Table Tennis and Dog Walking.
The next Wotzon will be emailed to members on 10 January.
In the meantime you can all keep in touch
via the U3A Kyneton Facebook page
Enrolment is on 14 January. The U3A Kyneton Committee would like to wish you all a very
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR Below are some members enjoying our Christmas Party

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

Our U3A Christmas Party will be held on 10 December at the Malmsbury Reservoir, commencing at 11.30am.  This will be a free BBQ cooked by the Committee.

Please bring your own plates, cutlery and glasses and/or cups, chairs and tea & coffee (including milk & sugar etc.). Access to the site is good via a concrete pathway and there are several picnic tables with some shade from nearby trees. 

There will be a QR code and also a paper record for registration at the site.  All attending are required to be fully vaccinated twice (double dose) by an Australian approved COVID-19 vaccine. 

The Christmas Party invitation with directions to the Malmsbury Reservoir can be viewed HERE.

If you would like to attend and have not already done so, please enrol into course no. 2147 Christmas Function, email members@u3akyneton.org.au or call 5422 2552.

Courses for this week are: French, Mah Jong, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Cycling, Tai Chi, Coffee Club, Men’s Kitchen, Table Tennis, Dog Walking and the Christmas party (instead of Friday@U3A).

The U3A bushwalking group visited the beautiful Lake Sanatorium, Mount Macedon last week (photo by Helen Atherton)

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

Twelve Kyneton U3A members had an enlightening visit to Ngannelong/Hanging Rock on Tuesday 9th November. The U3A class was met by Shane Caruana, the Head Ranger at Hanging Rock, who spent an hour talking about the Rock’s significance to Indigenous people and answering many lively questions from the group. A full description of the visit can be viewed HERE.

The U3A Christmas Party will be held on 10 December at the Malmsbury Reservoir, commencing at 11.30am. This is a free event for members and the Committee will provide the BBQ. Regarding the wearing of ‘silly hats’, this is not compulsory and after further discussion, there will be no prize or presentation. To assist with catering, please enrol into Course no. 2147 Christmas Function or alternatively email members@u3akyneton.org.au. Further details including directions will be advised closer to the date.

On Thursday, 2 December at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall there will be a free ‘MyGov and Linking Vaccination Certificate Session’ presented by Rachel Ellis of the NBN (this is a joint venture between U3A Network Victoria and the NBN). All are welcome to attend. Rachel will demonstrate how to access and safely link documentation to MyGov and Medicare. Bring along your smartphone to this session which is also for suitable those wanting to assist others. Please enrol online into Course No. 2175 or email members@u3akyneton.org.au if you would like to attend.

All courses are viewable 24/7 via the U3A website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/ where you will find dates, times and details of each individual course.  Wotzon is also able to be viewed via the U3A Website  and this can be accessed via a smartphone, tablet, computer or laptop. Courses for this week are: French, Mah Jong, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Cycling, Tai Chi, Coffee Club, Table Tennis, Bushwalking, Bird Observers, Dog Walking, Lunch Club and Creative Writing.

• The cycling group will meet at the Information Centre this week at 9.30am;
• Coffee Club will be able to meet at Angie’s Café at 10.30am again now that restrictions have eased. 

Our next speaker for Friday@U3A will be Peter Wilson with the topic “Evaluating Art”. Peter is ex National Gallery of Victoria and, using Visual Thinking Strategies methodologies, will lead a workshop where you will participate in the exploration and discussion of a selection of artworks. You will be invited to offer your ideas and consider the views of others. No prior knowledge of art is required. Come along for some fun analysis of art and what it means.

Below is a photo taken during the informative visit to Ngannelong/Hanging Rock:

Dear Members,

We are pleased to announce that the U3A Christmas Party will be held on 10 December. This will be a free event for members and will be held at the Malmsbury Reservoir, commencing at 11.30am.  The Committee will provide a BBQ with sausages, hamburgers, salads, desert (including vegetarian options) and water.. There will be a  theme of “silly hats” and a prize for the “silliest” . To assist with catering, please enrol into course no. 2147 Christmas Function or alternatively email members@u3akyneton.org.au.

Thank you very much to everyone for helping with the implementation of the U3A fully vaccinated policy. At re-enrolment in 2022, it will not be necessary for current members who have already had their vaccination certificates sighted again as the information will be retained in the UMAS system. New members will need to specify that they have been fully vaccinated to enrol in any course and will also need to have their certificate verified.

• There are two cycling rides this week: Robert will meet members at the Kyneton Railway Station before 7.54am to head off to Footscray for the Williamstown Beach Ride;
  and
  Helga will Ride in Kyneton starting at the Info Centre and 10.00am. 

• Coffee Club is meeting at the Barry Doyle Rotunda (weather permitting) at 10.30am until after 24 November.
• Thankfully, the Current Affairs Tutor is back on deck and resuming this week.

Unless otherwise advised, courses for this week include:
French, Mah Jong, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Cycling, Tai Chi, Coffee Club, Computer Workshop, Table Tennis, Dog Walking, Current Affairs, Film Club and Creative Writing.

Our next speaker for Friday@U3A will be David Hall with the topic “The Highlights of a Visit to South America”. David retired to Daylesford in 2000, after a career in publicity and marketing. He was a founder of the Hepburn Shire U3A and remains an active member in this, his ninetieth year. His presentation will be an illustrated talk about a trip around South America in 2013, featuring experiences in Chile, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. You will see natural wonders, history and colour. Come along to join in the adventure.

Our Christmas in July was finally held last week and was lots of fun – here is a photo taken during the luncheon (thanks to Margaret Chandra).

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

The Committee is meeting on Wednesday this week and planning is underway for 2022. Specific thanks go to all our tutors for their offer to assist with courses next year as there would be no U3A without them. If anyone is able to offer assistance either informally or formally please let us know.

• We are delighted to advise that the lunch for ‘Christmas in July’ will finally go ahead on 12 November at the RSL, commencing at midday.  This is a fun event and there are 9 vacancies @$25/head, so if you would like to attend  the lunch, please email info@u3akyneton.org.au. You will need to be quick and advise by c.o.b. 9 November if you would like to join the luncheon. Payment can also be made on the day. Everyone entering the RSL will need to show proof of double vaccination and masks need to be worn unless sitting down at the table. This U3A gathering on 12 November will be instead of the regular Friday@U3A session.
• The Music group will meet again this week after a long break due to Covid;
• Coffee Club is meeting at the Barry Doyle Rotunda at 10.30am until after 24 November;
• The final Poetry session for the year is on Thursday;
• Our Creative Writing course will continue until 3 December.

Details for Course 2171, First Nations History in the Macedon Ranges are:  a visit to Ngannelong (also known as Hanging Rock) on Tuesday 9th November. Assemble at RBH at 9:30 am before meeting at Hanging Rock Reserve at 10 am for talk by Hanging Rock Ranger Shane Caruana. (There will be a cost of $10 per car.)

Unless otherwise advised, courses for this week include:
French, Mah Jong, Music, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Cycling, First Nations, History, Tai Chi, Men’s Kitchen, Coffee Club, Table Tennis, Bushwalking, Dog Walking, Poetry, Book Circle, and Christmas in July.

There will be no speaker for for Friday@U3A due to the Christmas in July lunch.

Here is a photo of our cyclists enjoying a recent visit to the Chinese Cemetery (photo by Robert Rouse)

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

We are transitioning into the ‘Covid normal’.  Masks will still need to be worn for inside courses but are not compulsory outside, or during exercise. Our sincere thanks are extended to tutors and members who have provided their covid vaccination certificates. We have had a great response. If any member hasn’t already had their vaccination certified by U3A, now is the time to do so.

We are planning some exciting and interesting courses for 2022! Please let us know if you have any suggestions or can assist the Committee in either an informal or formal capacity, or just to have a chat.

We are looking for a temporary volunteer to help with our social afternoon tea on Fridays until December. This is not a laborious undertaking and there are always lots of willing helpers. Please contact members@u3akyneton.org.au if you can assist.

Unless otherwise advised, courses this week include:
French, Mah Jong, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Cycling, Tai Chi, Coffee Club, Computer Workshop, Table Tennis, Dog Walking, Film Club and Friday@U3A. Please email either your tutor or  info@u3akyneton.org.au if you have any queries.

• The Low Impact Exercise class has some spare places – come along and give it a try;
• Tai Chi WILL be held (despite the public holiday)
• Coffee Club will continue to meet at the Barry Doyle Rotunda at 10.30am as Angie’s Café still has number constraints;
• Current Affairs will NOT be held this week;
• Table Tennis has returned to the original time of 4.30pm at the Aquatic Centre. All participants will have their vaccination certificates checked upon entry to the building and masks must be worn unless playing;
• Computer workshop is meeting this week at Len’s. Please see Len to trial the new iPad which is available free of charge to members, or email info@u3akyneton.org.au for further information;
• The Creative Writing course is continuing until December.

 Our next speaker for Friday@U3A at 2.00pm will be Paul Marson – our China expert. Paul will be talking about AUKUS from the Chinese perspective.

Here is a photo of the table tennis group enjoying themselves (photo by Len Baker):

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

Members are always welcome to our Friday@U3A sessions.  With Victorian Government restrictions easing slightly from midnight on Thursday, U3A Kyneton is able to have 30 participants in the Red Brick Hall.  If you are attending, please arrive in time for the 2.00pm start.

Thank you very much to everyone who has had their Covid vaccination certificates verified.  This enables our tutors and members to continue to meet in a Covid-safe environment. Some of the courses have already confirmed that all participants are fully vaccinated, and this is fantastic.

The Victorian Seniors Festival Reimagined is now online from now until the end of the year and has some big-name stars from Victoria’s arts and entertainment world.  It’s a great way to learn something new, check out an online art exhibition or take in a film. Also, for regional Victoria, there are some live events planned from the end of October. (Click on the above link to find out further details.)

Courses this week include French, Mah Jong, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Cycling, Tai Chi, Men’s Kitchen-2, Coffee Club, Table Tennis, Computer Workshop, Dog Walking, Current Affairs, Film Club and Creative Writing as well as Friday@U3A. Please email either your tutor or  info@u3akyneton.org.au if you have any queries.

• Cycling this week is meeting at the Information Centre at 10.30am;
• Table Tennis is meeting at 9.30am in the Botanical Gardens (unless otherwise advised)
• Computer Workshop will be held this week at the Red Brick Hall at 2.30pm
• U3A has recently received a grant for a new iPad which can be trialled for short periods by members. Please see Len Baker at Computer Workshop or email info@u3akyneton.org.au for further information

Our next topic for Friday@U3A will be John Taubman with the topic “AUKUS” – more commonly referred to as the submarine deal between the UK, the US and Australia – the cancelation of the French submarine contract and why this makes sense (or no sense).

This will look behind the media reporting and the implications for Australia and what do the US and the UK get in return.  What does Australia give up? He will try to explain the rational for the decision.

John served in the Australian Navy for over 30 years, 27 years in the submarine service with tours in both the Royal Navy and the United States Navy.

The photo below (thanks to Helen Atherton) was taken during the recent visit to “Stonefields” where everyone enjoyed the garden.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

A huge thank you to all members and tutors who have responded so positively to the U3A Kyneton vaccination policy and also those who have already provided their certification to U3A: https://u3akyneton.org.au/vaccination-requirements/

“Any person who attends any face-to-face activity or course organised by U3A Kyneton must be fully vaccinated.”

Recording the certification for each individual member is being entered into the UMAS database. Recording of a member’s vaccination status in the database for any new member is being developed. We are trying not to ask members multiple times to produce their certification, however, apologise in advance if this happens and ask for your patience during this implementation process. 

To assist our Tutors for the next few weeks, an email will be sent to your Tutor for each course being held during the forthcoming week listing members who have already had their certificates recorded. 

Courses can be held this week in accordance with masks and social distancing observed and include French, Mah Jong, Low Impact Exercise, Social Walking, Tai Chi, Coffee Club, Table Tennis, Dog Walking, Current Affairs, Film Club, Creative Writing and the regular Friday@U3A.
Please note:

• Table Tennis is currently meeting at 9.30am in the Botanical Gardens (not at the Aquatic Centre due to Covid);
• A NEW Creative Writing Course is starting on Friday at 9.30am;
• The Computer Workshop is unable to be held this week (and can hopefully be held on 20 October);
• Details regarding the visit to “Stonefields” on 12 October will be sent this week. (This replaces the visit to “Musk Farm” which has been sold).
  https://www.stonefieldsthefarmhouse.com/

 Full course details can be found via the website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/

Our next topic for Friday@U3A will be “Climate Emergency in the Macedon Ranges” with speakers: Councillors Jennifer Anderson and Mark Ridgeway, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

In 2017 the Council adopted a Climate Change Action Plan with an emissions reductions target of 25% by June 2021. In March 2021, in response to a motion put by Councillor Ridgeway, Council voted in favour of declaring a Climate Emergency.

Come along and find out what programs, practices and actions have already been taken and what is being planned by Council to reduce and control the impacts of climate change.

Below is a photo of our Coffee Club members enjoying some Spring sunshine.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

Last Friday, after extremely careful discussion and consideration, the Committee unanimously decided that in the best interests and safety of members, presenters and visitors, the following policy be instigated forthwith.

“Any person who attends any face-to-face activity or course organised by U3A Kyneton must be fully vaccinated.”

This double vaccination requirement was emailed to all members on Saturday. We apologise for any cross posting and inconvenience this may cause, however, the health and safety for U3A Kyneton members, tutors and visitors is our number one priority.

Tutors will need to view vaccination certificates of members attending their course(s). If members do not have a vaccination certificate this week (27 September 2021), verbal notification is sufficient, however, it will be compulsory to have been viewed by the week commencing 04 October 2021.

Acceptable proof of compliance is by the myGovID app. Alternatively, members can obtain a printed certificate from their provider of the vaccine, either a doctor or pharmacist.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..                                                                                                            
Courses can resume in the Red Brick Hall, provided all Covid-19 rules are adhered to with everyone wearing masks, checking in etc. There will be no gold coin donation for weekly Friday@U3A sessions. Outside courses are also resuming with masks and social distancing observed.

This week’s courses include French, Mah Jong, Social Walking, Cycling, Tai Chi (2.00pm), Men’s Kitchen-2, Coffee Club, Table Tennis, Bushwalking, Dog Walking, Book Circle and Friday@U3A. Further details can be viewed by clicking the underlined link to the U3A Kyneton website:

It is still the school holiday period, so if you have any queries, please check with either your Tutor or John, Course Coordinator, via info@u3akyneton.org.au.

Our next speakers for Friday@U3A at 2.00pm will be Leigh and Len Baker who will be presenting Part 1 of a fascinating series of videos about theformation of the Australian continent, its mineral riches and the truly ancient life-forms still observable.

Here is photo of Helen, well dressed, having fun and soaking up the sunshine while playing Table Tennis in the Botanical Gardens (thanks to Robert Rouse)

Good morning Members,

The new Committee held it’s first meeting on Friday and Peter (President) welcomed Stephen Carisbrooke and Ged Seddon to the Committee. At the meeting the Committee agreed to immediately cease the gold coin donation for the weekly Friday@U3A sessions for members.  Visitors are also always welcome and only they are asked for a small donation.

With Covid restrictions easing slightly in Regional Victoria, the Council has advised that courses can recommence in the Red Brick Hall, provided all Covid restrictions are adhered to with everyone wearing masks, checking in etc., with a maximum 20 attendees along with a presenter and 2 assistants. This is the current ruling, however please be aware that the situation may change suddenly and without much notice.

U3A Kyneton members will need to comply with all Victorian Government Covid rules.

• The Book Circle is holding 2 additional sessions this month with the 1^st on Wednesday, 15 September at 1.00pm and the 2^nd on 30 October at 1.00pm.
• Tai Chi is NOT being held this week.
• The Table Tennis group will meet outside at the Botanical Gardens at 9.30am on 15 September (as the Aquatic Centre is not open).
• Coffee Club can meet this week outside at the Barry Doyle Rotunda at 11am
• The Mental Health First Aid (for older people) course will be on Thursday commencing at 9.30am.
• All other outside Courses can be held with social distancing and mask wearing.
• Music and Computer Workshop will also be postponed this week.

Any queries regarding courses can be directed to your Tutor or to John, Course Coordinator via info@u3akyneton.org.au.

Our next speaker for Friday@U3A at 2.00pm will be Carol Douglas with the topic “Establishing an Australian Hotel in Germany”. Carol spent over 20 years in the hotel industry in Australia, overseeing five brands across all States and into New Zealand. For a sea change, she re-located to Berlin in 2008 to launch hotels in Germany, Copenhagen and Budapest. Her presentation will be about her adventures in Europe, before returning to Melbourne in 2017, where she finished her career at the Savoy on Little Collins.

Below is a photo of some daffodils taken near the Mineral Springs just outside Kyneton (with thanks to Ken and Mayzie Hants)

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

We are still dealing with Covid restrictions and courses have been postponed.  If the situation changes we will keep everyone up to date.  U3A will open up face to face courses as soon as is safe to do so. In the meantime, we are able to hold our Friday@U3A via Zoom where the CEO of Macedon Ranges Council will give a presentation – see details below.

The U3A Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held on 3 September. Thanks to all members who attended and those who gave proxies and apologies.

A new Committee was elected and is listed below. They will hold their first meeting this Friday.

At the AGM The Chair proposed that the U3A Kyneton subscription be increased to $40 in 2022, and that the monetary collection for the weekly Friday@U3A sessions be abolished. 
The motion below was carried:
“MOTION AGM 06/2021: That the 2022 subscription be set at $40 with the half yearly membership to be $25.”

Next Friday@U3A we will hear from Bernie O’Sullivan, CEO, Macedon Ranges Shire Council who will speak on the topic “Macedon Ranges Shire Council – Strategic Directions”. Bernie commenced with MRSC in May this year. He is a senior executive with extensive and diverse leadership experience in the government and not for profit sectors. His presentation will be an overview of the Macedon Ranges Shire, including the demographics, our Councillors and the strategic directions being taken and designed to meet current and future contingencies.

At the moment, this is planned as a Zoom presentation and a link to the meeting will be sent on Thursday afternoon.  In the event of a Regional Covid opening up next week, we shall be at the Red Brick Hall. As numbers there will be limited to twenty, please register if you plan to attend at the RBH.

In (optimistic) anticipation that outdoor activities may soon be permitted, here is a photo of some of our ‘table tennis group’ having fun playing in the Kyneton Botanical Gardens

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

 Dear Members

U3A Kyneton has an exciting new course – a Creative Writing group!
This is for anyone who enjoys or aspires to write. All types of writing interests are welcome: fiction, non-fiction, poetry, memoir or journal. The course is initially for 4 weeks (at no charge) with weekly meetings to explore creativity, find inspiration, and ways to improve. Each session will involve a check-in and will start with a mini-lesson or discussion on an aspect of writing. Members can work on the topic of the week or are welcome to work on another piece of writing.  Enrolments are now open for Course No. 2173 which is due to start on Friday, 06 September at 9.30-11.30 a.m. at the Red Brick Hall.

As U3A along with Regional Victoria is in lockdown again our courses are restricted this week. Let’s all try to ‘phone a friend’ or touch base frequently with family to check they are ok.

• There will be a Zoom Coffee Club meeting on Wednesday, 25 August at 11.00 a.m. and we can discuss ‘how everybody is managing’. Grab a cup of coffee or tea and some cake to join in. All are welcome to attend and the link to the ZOOM is below:

U3A Kyneton Host is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting at 11a.m. on 25 August. To Join the Zoom Meeting follow the link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87097937719?pwd=b0YxbnBFYWVTL09ma3FiWmZqRHBhQT09

Meeting ID: 870 9793 7719
Passcode: 013131

• Our regular Friday@U3A will also be held via Zoom this week and a link to the meeting will be emailed 24 hours beforehand.  The topic will be an 11 minute presentation “The disarming case to act right now on Climate Change” by Greta Thunberg (2018). This will leave time for a discussion afterwards.

Our AGM will be on Friday, 03 September via Zoom (unless otherwise advised). So that we can ascertain the numbers for the AGM, could members please register your attendance at the AGM, Course 2129. You will need your membership number and password to log in, however, there are help links to assist if you have forgotten either of these.  Additionally, an email can be sent to info@u3akyneton.org.au to register. 

Please also check out the U3A Tutors Information page via the website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/tutor-introductions/ which has recently been established (with thanks to Heather Potter).

Below is a photo of our U3A Poetry group with “members bedazzled by a Margaret Atwood poem” (with thanks to Robert Rouse)

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

 Dear Members

We extend a huge welcome to those who have recently joined U3A.

Courses can be held in the Red Brick Hall with Covid restrictions observed. The numbers in the building are currently limited to 20, QR check-in and/or registration is required, and masks need to be worn. Covid restrictions can change at short notice. Outdoor courses can also be held with members wearing masks. We are endeavouring to keep up to date with course information, but if you have any queries please get in touch with your tutor or contact us via info@u3akyneton.org.au.

• The U3A Kyneton Annual General Meeting has been rescheduled to 03 September. Documentation will be re-distributed on 20 August;
• Our new members and tutors afternoon tea will now be on 08 September;
• The Christmas in July luncheon is currently on hold with a date to be advised;
• The International Folk Dance course will NOT be held this week.
• Tai Chi will resume classes at a start time of 1.30p.m. this week. Masks will need to be worn inside and all Covid restrictions complied with.

U3A Kyneton has applied for and received a grant from U3A Network Victoria for the purchase of an iPad and internet connection.  This is now available for members to borrow for one month periods as a ‘try before you buy’ scheme. To register your interest, please enrol in course 2172 ‘iPad Loan’ and you will be wait listed. The Tutor (Len) will then allocate the device as appropriate.  If you intend to take up this opportunity you might also consider enrolling in course 2105 “Computer Workshop’.

We are aware that some emails from info@u3akyneton.org.au are ending up in the ‘Junk/Spam’ folder. This seems to mainly be those with a ‘Bigpond’ email address. If you do not receive the weekly Wotzon or other emails from your Tutor, please check the ‘Junk/Spam’ folder to see if it is there.

The next Friday@U3A session at 2.00p.m. at the Red Brick Hall will be presented by Ian and Glenn Braybrook with the topic ‘Major Thomas Mitchell’s 1836 Australia Felix Expedition’. Local historians, Ian and Glenn Braybrook, authors of the recently published (2019) regional History – The Land We Love – will talk about Mitchell’s expedition and his report about Central and Western Victoria and how that led to “the biggest and most rapid land grab” in Australian history. 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members

Another day and another Covid rule change in Victoria! 

As restrictions are easing at 11.59p.m. tonight, courses will be run in accordance with the 4 sq. metre rule and masks worn by everyone inside and outside. Please check our U3A Kyneton website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/.

Please check with your tutors if you are unsure about any specific course.

The Annual General Meeting will NOT be held this Friday.

Our Friday@U3ATHIS WEEK at 2.00p.m. (August 13) will be at the Red Brick Hall with Ted Talk session.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

 Dear Members,

U3A Kyneton, like the rest of Victoria, is enduring another Covid Lockdown.

The Committee is holding its meeting today via Zoom. All other courses scheduled for this week are suspended. This includes the Annual General Meeting which will be rescheduled to a later date.

The lockdown is impacting us all, so please reach out to anyone you might know who needs assistance.

In the meantime, our U3A Facebook page is open to all members and provides a way to communicate (albeit small).  Just click on the underlined text to see the our (private) Facebook page 

U3A will recommence courses, both inside and outside, as soon as possible. Here is a photo taken earlier in the year of our cyclists relaxing after a hard ride!

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Hello Members,

Once again, courses can be held in the Red Brick Hall.  All Covid restrictions need to be observed and this advice may change at short notice. The number in the building is currently limited to 20, QR check-in and/or written registration is required, and masks need to be worn.

• The U3A Kyneton Annual General Meeting notice was distributed last week . If you did not receive your copy, please contact members@u3akyneton.org.au;
• The Christmas in July luncheon will be rescheduled;
• Our new members and tutors afternoon tea will now be held on 08 September;
• A bookcase (kindly donated by Mary Hildebrandt) has been placed in the Red Brick Hall and starts our U3A Library. If you have any books that others may want to read, bring them along to share.  Feel free to browse the bookcase and see if there is a something interesting to read

COURSES THIS WEEK:

• There will be NO Tai Chi this week. It will recommence next week on 10 August;
• All other courses are running normally with Covid restrictions and masks to be worn for both inside and outside activities – further course information can always be found via our website https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/.
• There is 1 spare place in the Mental Health 1^st Aid course (2131) which commences on Thursday. This is a 4 week course being held on 5, 12 & 26 August and 02 September (no session on 19 August). To receive accreditation you will need to attend the 4 sessions. Please contact info@u3akyneton.org.au if you are interested in doing this course.

John Taubman gave a presentation last Friday about his experience of fighting fires in the Blue Mountains in 2013. Below is a photo of a house that was saved.

Our next Friday@U3A on August 6 at the Red Brick Hall commencing at 2.00p.m., Leigh and Len Baker will be presenting Part 1 of a fascinating series of videos about the formation of the Australian continent, its mineral riches and the truly ancient life-forms still observable. 

Our U3A Facebook page is open to all members.  Just click on the underlined text to see the latest Facebook news.

Roni Taubman
Secretary

Dear Members,

U3A Kyneton, is still in Covid Lockdown, as is the rest of the Victoria. Courses scheduled for Monday and Tuesday this week have been suspended, however, if several restrictions end before the end of the week, further advice will be provided.

Our next Friday@U3A presentation (30 July) will be by John Taubman with the topic a firefighter’s perspective of “Fighting fires in the Blue Mountains”. In mid-October 2013 a number of destructive fires affected several communities including the Blue Mountains. More than 200 homes were destroyed however thousands more were saved due to the work of firefighters.

Hopefully we will be able to meet in the Red Brick Hall on Friday, however, if this is not possible, John will present this via Zoom and a link to the meeting will be emailed on Thursday afternoon.

In the meantime, checkout information about some of our our talented Tutors  HERE  🌞 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

U3A Kyneton, like the rest of Victoria, is in the middle of a Covid Lockdown – again ☹️ 

All courses scheduled for this week are suspended, however, if the lockdown ends before the end of the week, further advice may be provided. The Christmas in July luncheon (23^rd July) has been postponed and will be rescheduled.

Courses postponed for this week are: International Folk Dancing
French
Mah Jong
Low Impact Exercise
Social Walking
Cycling
Tai Chi
Coffee Club
Table Tennis
Bushwalking
Bird Observers
Lunch Club
Christmas in July
Friday@U3A
Our next Friday afternoon speaker will be held next week,30^th July at 2.00p.m. and will be John Taubman with the topic a firefighter’s perspective of ‘fighting fires in the Blue Mountains’.

In the meantime let’s keep our fingers crossed the lockdown will end soon and please keep safe.  🤞 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

U3A Kyneton courses are resuming after a short Semester break and we extend a big welcome back to everyone, especially to new members.

COVID restrictions in Victoria have eased at last which means we are currently able to use the Red Brick Hall again without masks. It is still important to use the QR code/sign in sheet for contact tracing.

The Committee is holding its monthly meeting this morning. The U3A Kyneton Annual General Meeting is in August.  Our membership is growing and consequently we are asking for expressions of interest from an additional 2 interested people to join the Committee.  Please contact info@u3akyneton.org.au if you would like further information. The Committee always welcomes fresh ideas and suggestions.

On Tuesday, 13 July, First Nations in the Macedon Ranges (Course 2171) will depart Kyneton Station at 8.32am to visit the Bunjilaka Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Melbourne Museum.

The International Folk Dancing(Course 2165) is re-commencing on 19 July at the Red Brick Hall – so find and polish up those dancing shoes at the back of the cupboard to join in the fun. 

A Christmas in July (Course 2146) luncheon will be held on 23 July at the Kyneton RSL at 12.00p.m. at a cost of $25.  The Menu will consist of garlic bread, a choice of either Fish or Roast and a selection of 2 desserts. Drinks are available at bar prices. All are welcome to attend this social luncheon. Enrolments are necessary and can be registered online or via info@u3akyneton.org.au. (Please also advise any dietary requirements.)

This lunch will replace the regular Friday@U3A presentation on 23 July.

All other regular courses are running as per usual this week as is the Friday@U3A afternoon session. Details of dates and times of courses are accessible 24/7 on our website via https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/. You can view and enrol in classes from the website and also check the next scheduled date of any particular course. Please contact us if you need assistance with viewing and enrolling into courses – friendly assistance is available from a real person.

We extend a HUGE thankyou to all our Tutors as without their continual commitment U3A would not exist.

Thank you very much to Mary Hildebrandt for her donation of a Bookcase which will enable our book-swap library to begin in the Red Brick Hall. This will be a library to Swap/Read – Books you may have read and are no longer wanted that can be placed in the bookcase for others to read and in return you are then able to take a book that you have not yet read.

The next Friday@U3A presentation (16 July) will be by John Taubman with the topic a firefighter’s perspective of “Fighting fires in the Blue Mountains”. In mid-October 2013 a number of destructive fires affected several communities including the Blue Mountains. More than 200 homes were destroyed however thousands more were saved due to the work of firefighters. The afternoon will start at 2.00pm at the Red Brick Hall followed by afternoon tea.  All members and guests are very welcome to come attend.

U3A Kyneton Membership badges will be available to collect from 1.30p.m. on Friday at the Red Brick Hall.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

There is no WOTZON for 26th June and the 3rd of July as the school holidays are on and U3A classes are generally having a break unless your tutor has opted to continue with your classes.

Dear Members,

Our thoughts are with everyone who sustained damage during Wednesday night’s storm.

Below is information for this week’s U3A Courses:

• Courses will not be held in the Red Brick Hall until (hopefully) this coming Friday. The Committee is meeting this morning to discuss the current status;
• Outdoor groups can meet provided there are no more than a maximum of 20. Face masks must be carried and worn when physical distancing of 1.5m cannot be maintained;
• Some retail is open with a density of 1 person per 4 sqm. Check-in upon entry and use the QR code. Below is some information regarding this week’s courses.
• French will NOT be held on Monday due to the Public Holiday
• Mah Jong will NOT be held on Monday;
• Coffee Club can meet outside on Wednesday at the Barry Doyle Rotunda (weather permitting)
• The Low Impact Exercise class will restart on Monday, 21 June at 2.00p.m.
  Please always check for up to date information from your Tutor.

Peter Tammer has kindly offered U3A Kyneton members an electronic copy of his ebook PDF of the eBook“Poles Apart”, the Search for Truth in Cinema.  If anyone would like a copy please contact info@u3akyneton.org.au.

Our next Friday@U3A speaker is Daryl Raggatt with the topic “McDonald’s Secret Business Techniques”. Daryl is a Fellow of the Australian Insurance Institute and a former lecturer in Finance at Melbourne and Swinburne Universities. In 2019 he retired from a career advising on asset finance for corporate, retail, industrial, rural and commercial clients. His presentation will be about the golden rules for successfully financing and managing a small business, with McDonald’s secret business techniques as the case study.
Come along and learn how to become even richer than you are! 

At the moment we are planning this Friday@U3A meeting to be at the Red Brick Hall, however, should this change, members will be notified via email. 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members
 
U3A Kyneton must abide by the Victorian Government’s COVIDSafe regulations and, regrettably, this will impinge on some courses this week.

• The Red Brick Hall has been closed by the Council, so no courses can be held there until further notice;
• Outdoor groups can meet provided there are no more than a maximum of 10 people. Face masks must be carried and are required to be worn when physical distancing of 1.5m cannot be maintained;
• Some retail is open with a density of 1 person per 4 sqm. Check-in upon entry using the QR code is mandatory. Courses held in an appropriate indoor setting can still take place.

Below is some information regarding this week’s courses.
Please always check for up to date information from your Tutor.
 
Monday

• International Folk Dancing has been cancelled with another 4-week session planned to commence after the school holidays;
• Intermediate French will be held in the Grist Bakery;
• Mah Jong will not be held;
• Low Impact Exercise will not be held;

Tuesday

• The Social Walking Group is meeting (weather permitting);
• Cycling can meet as a group;
• Tai Chi – please check with your Tutor for arrangements.

Wednesday

• Men’s Kitchen – please check with your tutor for arrangements;
• Coffee Club is cancelled this week (the café advises that only 6 people can meet in the back room);
• Advanced and Travel French will be held in the Grist Bakery;
• Computer Workshop is cancelled;
• New members afternoon tea will be rescheduled to a later date;
• Table Tennis will not be held as the Aquatic Centre is closed.

Thursday

• Bushwalking will meet as usual
• Dog Walking can take place in the Botanical Gardens;
• Current Affairs is cancelled;
• Poetry is taking place outside in the courtyard of Harper Lee Café (weather permitting);
• Book Circle is cancelled (the next meeting is on 08 July);
• Film Club is cancelled until July.

Friday

• Propaganda – The Dark Art has regrettably been cancelled and will be rescheduled for 2022;
• Friday@U3A will be held via ZOOM – details below. 

• Last Friday an informative Zoom session was provided by Peter Tammer about “Frank Hurley in Antarctica” – here is a photograph of the ship “Endurance” on the Antarctic ice.
• Our next Friday@U3A ZOOM meeting will be Helen Synnot with the topic “My Double Lung Transplant”. Helen is the Practice Nurse at Campaspe Family Practice, Kyneton. She will talk about the diagnosis that led to her transplant, its psychological impact and her ongoing regime of medication and health management since then.
• A Zoom link will be emailed prior to the meeting and members can click on the link provided to access the meeting via a smart phone, tablet or computer. U3A Kyneton can communicate with members to connect, regardless of the pandemic restrictions – our Zoom account has been renewed this week to enable sessions to take place.  If anyone has questions about joining a Zoom meeting, please let us know – HELP is available. 
• Keep safe and warm this week.

• Roni Taubman
• Secretary
• 5422 2552

Goodmorning Members,

• As previously advised and due to the Victorian Government’s snap Lockdown, U3A Kyneton has suspended courses until further notice. This is inclusive of all classes and also the proposed afternoon tea for new members. We wish we had better news, however, as further advice becomes available we will keep everyone informed regarding specific course arrangements;
• The GOOD NEWS is that next Friday@U3A will be held via ZOOM so read on to find out the details;
• The U3A Kyneton website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/ will be amended as the situation changes.
• Here is a photo taken during the International Folk Dance session last week which was lots of FUN and hopefully this will re-commence next week.

• Also, our Bird Observers enjoyed a great outing last week as can be seen below – searching for that elusive bird….
  

• Our next Friday@U3A speaker (via Zoom) is Peter Tammer with the topic “Frank Hurley in Antarctica“. Prior to retirement Peter taught film at the Victorian College of the Arts. This presentation is about the legendary Australian pioneering photographer and cinematographer, Frank Hurley, in Antarctica with Sir Ernest Shackleton, on the ill-fated expedition of the Endurance between 1914 – 1917. This is an epic story of hardship and endurance.
  
  Everyone is welcome to join the online ZOOM and a link to the meeting will be distributed via email, so watch out for the email 24 hours beforehand so you can join in this informative session. There’s no need to have a Zoom account, just follow the link with details on how to join the meeting.
  
  U3A Kyneton will continue to utilise whatever avenue is available to communicate with members and to connect, regardless of the pandemic restrictions. 
  
  Roni Taubman
  Secretary
  5422 2552

Dear Members,

• The U3A Kyneton ‘Propaganda – The Dark Art’ course commences on Friday at 10.00am for 5 weeks. Where did it start, who were some of the experts and where is it going?
• Computer workshop is being held THIS week (instead of last week) so bring along whatever device you have for some hands-on problem-solving;
• The 1^st Low Impact Exercise 8-week class starts today, 2.30pm at the Xist Gym, Rear/49 Mollison St., Kyneton (laneway off Simpson St.) – come along to try it out;
• The U3A Kyneton ‘Lunch Club’ is also meeting this week where members can enjoy good quality food at reasonable prices;
• Our ‘Bird Observers‘ will also be out and about this week;
• All other regular courses are continuing as normal. Further details can be found via the U3A Kyneton website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/.  If you need assistance on how to view and enrol in courses please contact us.
  

The following forthcoming events information has been received from Doug McIver (with thanks):  

• The Melbourne Conservatorium of Music is presenting ‘Ken Murray,Trio Agogo and Friends’ on 26 May. Further information and booking details can be found via their Facebook page HERE: 
• In June there is a FREE event, presented by Cathouse Players Inc., of the play ‘Blithe Spirit’ – A beloved classic by perennial playwright and wit Noel Coward. This will be held at the Kyneton Masonic Centre on 18-20 June and 25-27 June. Full details can be found HERE 

Our next Friday@U3A speaker is Helen Synnot with the topic “My Double Lung Transplant”. Helen is the Practice Nurse at Campaspe Family Practice. She will talk about the diagnosis that led to her double lung transplant; its psychological impact and her ongoing regime of medication and health management since then.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Good morning Members,

Now that details of courses are available via the website, Wotzon is not listing every course that occurs for the coming week. Information about current activities, new courses and changes to regular courses will be set out in the weekly email. Details of the next Friday@U3A weekly speaker will also be advised.

• Computer Workshop will NOT be held this week and has been rescheduled to 26 May;
• International Folk Dancing starts today, 10.00am at the Red Brick Hall;
• Current Affairs and Film Club sessions are also happening this week;
• A new 8-week low impact exercise class is starting next week on Monday afternoons – If you’re looking for more FUN than a WORKOUT, this 30-minute class is for you and can be tailored to suit individual levels… come along to try it out;
• Members who joined in 2020 and 2021 will soon receive an invitation to a ‘welcome to U3A Kyneton’ afternoon tea.

All other regular courses are being held as normal.  Please remember that anyone is able to attend a session as a trial before formally joining U3A or enrolling into a course. 

Full details about courses can be accessed via the website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/. If you need any assistance or have any queries, please email info@u3akyneton.org.au – there is a ‘real person’ who can help you to navigate the system which is sometimes frustrating!

Even though the cold weather is upon us, last week was warm and sunny.  Below is a photo of the Poetry group enjoying their class in the sunshine.

Our next Friday@U3A speaker is John Shaw with the topic ‘A look at the history of Woodend and why it is so different to the other towns in the region’. John is a long-time Woodend resident and U3A member. He will take us through the history of Woodend, looking at how that history has resulted in a unique and highly individual town. He will explore and explain how that history has generated characteristics and features that make Woodend different.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Good morning Members,

• The U3A Kyneton Committee is meeting today. Please let us know if any particular subject needs to be raised at any meeting.  A ‘Welcome’ Morning Tea for new members will be announced soon.
• Our fun-filled exercise class last week had everyone chasing balloons around the room!! There are still a few spaces left for anyone who might like to join in;
• The Music course is held monthly at a private home – come along and enjoy some mainly classical music of all sorts and eras;
• Men’s Kitchen is being held this week (and was recently featured in the Midland Express);
• Our Poetry group is also meeting to discuss the Australian Poet, Kate Llewellyn;
• The final Photography session is on Thursday, so we look forward to receiving lots of photos for Wotzon from those who are now photographic ‘experts’;
• International Folk Dancing starts next Monday, 17 May, for 4 weeks at the Red Brick Hall at 10.00-11.30am. If you know someone who might like to join the dance group for a session, that would be ok and the tutor has agreed to take $2.50 for the one-off visitor. If you attended the recent introductory session, you will now need to re-enrol into the course (or advise if help is needed to do so).

You can view further information about courses, dates and times  via the U3A Kyneton website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/ and our Facebook page can be accessed HERE. 

Several Tutors and some members of the Committee attended a First Aid course last week.  Here is a photo of our U3A Kyneton President in action! Another course is being planned for next Semester.

Our next Friday@U3A speaker is Dr. Graeme Davison AO, Emeritus Sir John Monash Distinguished Professor. His core areas of interest are Australian cities, national identity, public history and family history. Taking his book ‘The Rise and fall of Marvellous Melbourne’, as the theme, he will talk about the history of Melbourne from the 1850’s gold rushes through to the boom and bust of the late C19, with some reflections on Melbourne’s recent history.

All are welcome and friends can also come along to the U3A Kyneton regular 2pm Friday sessions at the Red Brick Hall, 23 Yaldwyn Street West, Kyneton. Also, please remember anyone is able to attend a session of any course as a trial before formally enrolling.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Hello Members

• The introduction to International Folk Dancing is taking place on Monday;
• Our final session of the First Australians in the Macedon Ranges is this week;
• Several members of the Committee and Tutors are attending a First Aid course on Tuesday;
• Computer Workshop, Current Affairs and Film Club are scheduled for this week;
• The next U3A Poetry group is on 13 May;
• All other long and short courses are continuing.

Here is a photo of some members out and about during last week’s First Australians in the Macedon Ranges course

Last Friday’s U3A, Chris Dixon gave us a most informative and interactive session explaining the strategies of managing a team of large muscular horses.  All were intrigued to view the heavy hardware used.

WOTZON is being distributed early each Monday morning. Everyone can now view the courses available from the U3A Kyneton website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/. 

Our next Friday@U3A speaker will be John Taubman with the topic “KRI Nanggala (402)”, the Indonesian submarine that sank (with all hands) on 21st April 2021. John spent 27 years in the Australian submarine service, with command of two submarines and spent extensive periods in the very waters where the Indonesian submarine was lost. He will assess what we know, what we don’t know and give educated guesses about what might really have happened. He will talk about the facts, the fiction and why you should be careful of media reporting. Gain an insight into a tragic disaster and the subsequent politics, posturing and lies of the new age of “Fake News”.

All members are welcome so please invite your friends to the U3A Kyneton regular 2pm Friday sessions.

Don’t forget to check out the U3A Kyneton Facebook page, co-operative of retired people who share many educational, creative and leisure activities. The Facebook page is a private group (only members can see who’s in the group and what they post) and open to anyone who is retired or no longer working full time in the Macedon Ranges area of Victoria. 

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

 HelloMembers,

The regular WOTZON email is now being distributed early on Monday mornings and accessible via smart phones and tablets as well as computers. The link from the U3A Kyneton website to the full description of current courses is https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/.  Instructions on how to view and enrol in courses from this website can be found HERE.  U3A Kyneton courses can be viewed from the website 24 hours a day.

• The Australian History course has finished;
• The sessions on Photography are continuing on Thursday afternoons;
• An Introductory session to International Folk Dancing will be held on 03 May at the Red Brick Hall at 10.00am – it is free and open to all. Please invite friends to come along to this fun-filled activity. A further course on International Folk Dancing will commence on 17 May at a cost of $10;
• Another 4 week fun-filled low impact exercise class has commenced so come along and give it a go.

Below is a photo taken this week of members enjoying the First Nations History in the Macedon Ranges. Despite the rain, everyone enjoyed the most informative session.

Our next Friday@u3a afternoon speaker will be Chris Dixon with the topic “Less whip with More Wit”. Australian farmers have long been faced with the challenge of producing crops with the minimum of manpower. Until the early twentieth century the solution was one person driving a team of large muscular horses. Often that person had to combine controlling the horses with operating a big complex implement. Chris will explore and explain the strategies and devices used to get all members of the team working in unison. Some of the hardware used will be on display and audience participation will be part of the enjoyment of this truly unique Kyneton U3A activity.

All members are welcome as are your friends, so come along to the U3A Kyneton our Friday sessions at 2.00p.m. at the Red Brick Hall.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

• The course on Art (Acrylic Painting) starts this Friday;
• The sessions on Photography are continuing for the next 4 weeks;
• An Introductory session to International Folk Dancing will be held on 03 May – it is FREE and open to all. Feel free to invite friends to come along to this fun filled activity (participants for this session don’t have to be U3A members). A course on International Folk Dancing will commence on 17 May at a cost of $10;
• There are currently some spaces available in a weekly Low Impact Exercise class;
• All Friday@U3A afternoon sessions take place weekly at 2.00p.m. at the Red Brick Hall and details about invited speakers are advertised weekly in Wotzon. Friends are also welcome to attend and there is no need to register beforehand. This is followed by a social afternoon tea.

The Red Brick Hall has been found unlocked several times in the last few weeks and the cupboards open with equipment exposed. It is up to all members and tutors to ensure that the building is left secure, is also safe and tidy, so please could everyone assist their Tutor to make sure any equipment used is locked away and the building secured.

The link from the U3A Kyneton website to the full description of current courses is:https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/.  Instructions on how to view and enrol in courses from this website can be found HERE.   If you are enrolled in a course and away or unable to attend, please notify your Tutor.  Steps on how to record your absence can be accessed HERE.

If anyone is having difficulty logging into the U3A Kyneton membership system or enrolling in courses, please send an email to members@u3akyneton.org.au or call 5422 2552.

Our next Friday@u3a afternoon speaker will be Angela Jackson who will talk about her terrifying (but exciting) first-hand experience in 1972 on the Cypriot owned “SAGEORGE” which was shipwrecked off Koufonisi Point, SE Crete.  All members are welcome and friends can also be invited along to attend.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,
U3A Kyneton’s “Wotzon” will be distributed regularly to members each Monday morning (instead of Sunday afternoon).

U3A Kyneton courses have resumed after the Easter break. ‘Welcome’ to our new members and ‘Welcome Back’ those who have recently re-joined.

Although we are all enjoying reduced restrictions in Victoria, please remember to observe social distancing and utilise the hand sanitiser and cleaning supplies when in the Red Brick Hall.

• The monthly Music session is on Monday at 2.00p.m.;
• The First Nations History in the Macedon Ranges is starting this week. Participants will meet outside the Red Brick Hall at 10.00a.m. on Tuesday;
• Australian History is continuing on Wednesday at 10.00a.m.;
• The 2^nd session of Men’s Kitchen-1 is also on Wednesday;
• Current Affairs is meeting on Thursday at 10.00a.m.;
• The Photography course commences on Thursday at 2.00p.m.;
• There will be NO Film Club this week;
• All other regular courses are running.

The link from the U3A Kyneton website to the full description of current courses is: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/. Please scroll down the page to view this website for details regarding each specific course. Details about U3A each week’s courses can be accessed at any time from a smart phone, tablet, laptop or stand-alone computer.  An information session on how to view courses for ‘this week’ and ‘next week’ will be held on Friday,16 April in the Red Brick Hall at 2.00pm, followed by afternoon tea.  All are welcome and there is no need to register. 

If anyone is having difficulty logging into the U3A Kyneton membership system or enrolling in courses, assistance can also be provided on 16 April.

Following any medical incident, an Incident Report Form needs to be completed.  Tutors have been notified and additional forms can be located in the folder at the back of the Covid-Safe Plan in the Red Brick Hall.

Our next Friday afternoon speaker will be on 23 April at 2.00p.m. and will be about a 1^st hand shipwreck experience off the island of Crete in 1972 – with further information in the next “Wotzon”.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Dear Members,

Below are is further information regarding U3A courses:

• The U3A Kyneton Committee is meeting tomorrow.
• The 2^nd Low Impact Exercise class starts on Monday.
• The Bridge class is taking a break this week.
• There is still availability for members to join the International Folk Dancing course on 29 March which is sure to blow away all those Covid cobwebs.  There is no charge for the introductory session. You do not need to be an expert participate and unleash some spring in your steps. If interested, please enrol online or enquire via info@u3akyneton.org.au.

Paul Reid’s Historic tour of Kyneton was very appreciated by everyone who attended last Tuesday and another outing is booked for 6 April. It is currently full, however, if you are booked into this session and unable to attend on this day, please let us know so that others who are on the waiting list may enjoy this special outing.

The bushwalkers took advantage of the warm weather this week – below is photo taken of the group taken at Babbington Hill.

During 2020 the Red Brick Hall was not utilised regularly by U3A and most courses were held via Zoom. It has become apparent that our speakers cannot be heard clearly.  To overcome this, the audio system will be utilised for the Friday afternoon sessions and for visiting tutors whenever possible.

The list of courses being held this week are (this information has been copied from the U3A Kyneton website and is viewable at any time): https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/

Our next Friday@U3A afternoon speaker will be Shirley Proctor with the topic ‘Walking and Cycling Spain’s Caminos’. Shirley will take us on a pictorial journey from Seville in the South, to the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, in the north west corner of Spain. She will talk about her travel adventures walking and cycling along Spain’s Caminos.

All are welcome at the Friday afternoon sessions which is followed by afternoon tea. 



Roni Taubman
Secretary

 Hello Members:

Below is some information regarding the following courses:

• The second Low Impact Exercise class will NOT be held tomorrow (15 March) and will now commence on 22 March.
• Paul Reid’s tour of Kyneton (16 March) will begin from the South-East corner of Piper and Ebden Streets at 10:00 am (beside the old Market building, now Duck, Duck, Goose & Larder). Please wear sturdy walking shoes for this tour of approximately 2 km (mostly along Piper Street, but we may make some side excursions).
• There will be NO Film Club this week.
• The Friday U3A Kyneton regular Administration Day for any member requiring assistance with logging into or selecting courses for the membership database will now be available from 1.30-2.00p.m.

The list of courses being held this week are (this information has been copied from the U3a Kyneton website and is viewable at any time): https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/

Our next Friday@U3A afternoon will speaker will be Graham Kent with the topic “Investigating Assault, Sexual Assault and Discrimination in Victoria Police”. A retired Police Inspector, Graham will talk about his experiences when establishing the Victoria Police internal investigation taskforce. Set up in 2015, it is responsible for investigating allegations of sexual assault, harassment and discrimination within Victoria Police.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

Wotzon 28 February 2021

Hello Members.

Everyone is excited to learn of the easing Covid restriction in Victoria. Masks are now no longer mandatory for inside the Red Brick Hall. 

We are still unable to utilise the kitchen in the Red Brick Hall, however, with the revised government restrictions and for future afternoon tea on Fridays, rather than use paper cups, please feel free to choose a mug from our current supply of donated cups and take it home to wash and reuse for each Friday session.  Of course, members can also bring their own cup to use for afternoon tea.

Last Friday we had an informative session at the Red  Brick Hall by the West Ward Councillors – Macedon Ranges Shire Council – below is a photo of members listening intently!

This week:

• French classes are still meeting voluntarily;
• The First Australians course is starting, and
• The Growing your own food course is commencing.

A list of courses is available at any time (24/7) on the Kyneton website – select the Courses and Activities tab https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/, scroll down the page to select ‘List View’ and then select ‘this week’, or ‘next week’ to view.  Further details for each course can be obtained via the drop-down arrow.  If you are unsure when the next session is scheduled or if further details are needed, this is viewable on our website.  Wotzon is also being uploaded weekly onto the website. 

Courses being held this week are –  as per information from the U3A Kyneton website:

Our next Friday@U3A afternoon session will be Peter Wilson (ex NGV) who will be talking to us about ‘Evaluating Art‘. We shall view a selection of artworks. Everyone will be encouraged to offer their ideas and discuss. It sounds serious but it will be fun. This is similar to the ABC series ‘Everyone’s a Critic’ – episodes are available on ABC iView until 2 March – have a look! No prior knowledge of art is required – come along, participate and enjoy.

If you don’t already have your 2021 membership badge, it is available for collection at the Red Brick Hall from 1.00p.m. on Friday.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

************************************************************************

Dear Members.

After the lockdown U3A Kyneton is very happy to be back!

There are still a few vacancies in some courses, so take a look on our website to see if any additional sessions might interest you: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/

• The Bird Observers are meeting this week.
• Bridge is starting this week at the Red Brick Hall.
• Lunch Club is also scheduled this week for the first time in 2021.
• French classes are currently meeting informally as Simone is away.
• Table Tennis is moving to the time of 4.30pm on Wednesdays and now at the Kyneton Sports & Aquatic Centre.
• The International Folk Dancing introductory course on 29 March is open for registrations.

Our Bushwalkers had a great time last Thursday – below is a photo of them enjoying a well earned rest.

Absence Reporting: If you are away or unable to attend a course and wish to advise the Tutor, this can be done via the website. Use the Member Login (your Member No. and Password), then press Submit to access the database and then select My Absences from the Left-hand menu and follow the steps to the appropriate course and dates you will be absent – then click Submit.  This will initiate an automatic email which will be sent to the Tutor advising you will be away.  

The following courses will be held this week:

For our next Friday@U3A afternoon we will be visited by our Councillors: Cr. Janet Pearce – retiring Mayor; Cr. Mark Ridgeway – Deputy Mayor; Cr. Jennifer Anderson – Mayor; and the Chair –  Peter Johnson – President, U3A Kyneton.
With the Topic – West Ward Councillors – Macedon Ranges Shire Council.

Come along to hear from our local Councillors to learn about the issues – population growth, development, environment, traffic and more being managed by Council.

2021 Membership badges are available for collection 1.00p.m. onwards on Friday.

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

************************************************************************

Dear Members

As advised on Friday, due to the Victorian Covid lockdown, there will be NO U3A KYNETON COURSES held on Monday15 February, Tuesday 16 February, or Wednesday 17 February. Members will be advised regarding any changed arrangements or necessary cancellations for next Thursday or Friday.

Course no. 2165, an ‘Introduction toInternational Folk Dance’ will be held on 29 March, 10.00a.m – 12.00p.m.  Members can now enrol in this course which if successful, will continue. There will be no charge for the introductory session.

Course no. 2125 ‘Technology support’ is offered specifically for members (and tutors) to assist with the UMAS database and any login or enrolment difficulties. Sessions are held monthly on the 2^nd Friday of the month at 12.00-1.00p.m., or upon request. There is also a Committee member available from 1.00p.m. each Friday to assist with queries.

Courses are on viewable at any time via the U3A Kyneton website: https://u3akyneton.org.au/courses/. To enrol in any course, you will need your membership no. and password. If you can’t remember either or both of these, please click on the ‘Help links’ underlined on the login page.

Although we are in lockdown, hopefully the last 2 days of this week’s courses will take place. 

Members will be advised regarding any changed arrangements or necessary cancellations for next Thursday or Friday.

Our next Friday@U3A speaker will be Dr Milo Murphy, Campaspe Family Practice, who will be talking to us about Covid, the vaccination(s), efficacy and benefits. This will either be via Zoom or in person at the Red Brick Hall.

There was a medical incident recently which can happen occasionally in our community, however this thankfully ended with no lasting effects. At the U3A Committee meeting last Monday, emergency procedures and responsibilities were discussed. Members should be aware that in any future medical incident an ambulance will be called. (Tutors will receive an email outlining medical incident procedures should they occur.) 

With fingers crossed that the lockdown ends this week……..

Roni Taubman
Secretary
5422 2552

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