Mature students

U3As in Pakenham, Berwick and Emerald have been given funding boosts to improve their classes.
The State Government will hand over a $5700 grant to Pakenham U3A (University of the 3rd Age) for the purchase of four computers, software and ancillary programs.
With a membership of 250 people, and rising, there has been increasing demand for more classes.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato said the grant would help Pakenham U3A to meet the needs of its mature age students.
“Under the fantastic leadership of President Ron Topp, seniors are enjoying the opportunity to learn new skills and become familiar with computer programs. This grant will go a long way towards improving the facilities at the centre and allowing more people to enjoy computer classes,” she said.
Ms Lobato also welcomed a grant of $2500 for the Emerald U3A. She said this money would allow the organisation to purchase tools and equipment for its new woodworking courses, as well as enable promotional and advertising material to be developed.
Casey U3A, based in Berwick, was also successful in receiving a grant of $2400 to develop additional courses to improve flexibility in those with arthritis.
Pakenham and Emerald U3As were two of the 60 U3As across Victoria to share in over $160,000 in grants in the latest funding allocation.
The Victorian Government has committed $1.2 million over four years to help U3As flourish and grow, in recognition of their importance to communities and to the health and well-being of senior Victorians.