U3A shows strength

I WAS interested to read Casey University of the Third Age (Casey U3A) president Max Buchanan’s annual report where he noted the work of past presidents and committee members of his group.
I have seen steady development of the Casey U3A since it began in 1990 as the Berwick District U3A and heartily support his comment.
Mr Buchanan said committee members contributed a considerable amount of hard work to place the U3A in a strong position with nearly 300 members.
The group is now well recognised by the council and government.
This strong situation also means those now in command must never be idle because such a large organisation needs strong administration if it is to remain in a “strong position”.
Mr Buchanan also reported that Casey U3A had launched a new award to recognise distinguished long service to the group.
Longserving member and past president Elsie Rubenstein topped the list of those to receive the certificates.
I couldn’t let that one go by because I recall the early days of U3A in the south east when Ms Rubenstein was the group’s public officer and later its president.
Inaugural president Jim Lacey handed the job to Ms Rubenstein on Friday, 5 October 1996 and she continued her mission to build on U3A’s growing strength and to ensure it became a household name in the region.
The membership has since doubled and everyone knows about U3A.
It is a place of learning without pressure to do homework and without having to sit exams, but also a place of socialisation as good as any.