| The first U3A was founded in Toulouse, France in 1972. - its success led to the rapid spread of Universities of the Third Age to many other countries, particularly continental Europe. The U3A concept was introduced to Britain in1981, but the British U3A's quickly evolved away from the model based on courses provided by a university. - instead they adopted the idea of a self help or mutual aid and organisation - an intellectual democracy in which there would be no distinction between teachers and the taught - "a community in which learning is an end in itself". |
In late 1984, the first Australian U3As were soon successfully established throughout Victoria. The movement quickly spread to the rest of Australia. Within five years there were U3As in every State and Territory. Each U3A is autonomous. Activities are planned in response to the needs and interests of the local group. Within communities, there is a great reservoir of knowledge, skills and experience to be found among older people, and which is often undervalued or overlooked.
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| From its beginning in 1996, with five people in attendance, Mallacoota U3A has been successful in tapping the wealth of community knowledge possessed by those who were willing to share it with others. |
Our fortnightly presenters provide the membership with varied and colourful life experiences - they come from diverse backgrounds - retired or semi-retired professionals to local pioneers, artists, writers, historians, travellers, adventurers and opera buffs. Opera nights, play readings,
and functions in support of Aboriginal Reconciliation have also
been part of our program of activities. |
| Mallacoota U3A, now with 43 members, meets fortnightly on Fridays at 10.30am at the Miva Miva Centre, Genoa Road Mallacoota. For further information write to Ms. Greta Jessup, Secretary U3A, c/o Post Office, Mallacoota 3892. |
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