University seeks goverment aid

GEMBROOK MP Tammy Lobato was guest speaker at the recent Pakenham U3A luncheon, the first for the year.
And more than 50 people turned up at U3A’s James Street headquarters for the meeting.
U3A officials said many members were concerned that governments were not doing enough to encourage matureaged people to continue their education.
Research has shown that continuing mental and physical activity for older people helped them not to become a “financial burden” on the community.
U3A officials said Ms Lobato acknowledged that not only did the volunteer organisation provide continuing education opportunities, it acted as a social meeting place for likeminded people.
It was also noted that with the rapid increase in population, more classes could easily be held if bigger premises were available.
The State Government is looking at establishing community partnerships to better use government buildings such as schools under a shared arrangement.
Outlook Community Centre manager Anne McCormick also spoke of the successful partnership with Pakenham U3A.
The partnership integrates disabled, mature age and others into classes of benefit to everyone.