Celebrating 30 years of educating retirees

A group that are helping those in their ‘third age’ is celebrating three decades of having presence in the region.

In June, U3A Nelson ticked over 30 years of providing stimulating, lifelong learning and socialising, with five of the current six living past presidents cutting a cake in recognition.

The organisation aims to educate with ongoing learning and stimulation of retired members of the community, those in their ‘third age’ - the period of life between middle and old age, when you are still active.

The group runs 47 study groups through Nelson Tasman, which vary but currently include opera, creative writing, garden groups, chess, Mahjong, iPad, and wine appreciation.

Current president Wendy Cornish says they have more than 320 members, with between 120 and 130 seniors attending their bi-monthly meetings.

“I am so enthusiastic about U3A keeping our seniors active and socialising which are two key things to keep the brain ticking.”

As part of the celebrations, she says special mention was made of the past presidents no longer with us.

“Faith Williamson and Eve Emsley, who set up U3A Nelson, Marion Ring, Brian Say and Peter Sutton, all who made huge contributions during their time as presidents of U3A Nelson.”

For information on joining and workshops check out their website.

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