25 Years of Successful Learning

2018 has flown by even faster than usual. This is, in part, because we were busy planning for our 25^th Anniversary Celebration. Many members contribute to our success always and this year the numbers have swollen as members supported the celebration in many varied ways.

We gratefully received a grant from the Clarence City Council Community Support Grant Scheme to offset some of the cost of publication of our booklet, In Celebration of Silver.

We have again enjoyed a varied and interesting program. Thanks to all the tutors and committee involved. We also appreciate all our members who attend and show us how much they relish our activities. I know we all gain a great deal and this makes U3A Clarence so worthwhile.

We are having our Christmas lunch on Monday 26^th November at the Howrah Recreational Centre as usual and I am looking forward to that very much. Please join us for our Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 20^th February. The Program for term 1 2019 will be included in our next newsletter of Monday 21^st January.

Now is the time to tackle Christmas. I can remember the pleasure and excitement of wrapping presents with my mother and making decorations with my brother as a child. Such fun! I must admit that I do much less shopping than I used to. Now my grandchildren are older I give them money because I cannot keep up with their fashions and interests so my presents disappoint. What little shopping I do, I do early because I can no longer face the crowded shops and the repetitive carols. Oops! I have turned into Ebenezer Scrooge!

I am looking forward to a more relaxing few weeks ahead. I have planted tomatoes and strawberries and my scarlet runner beans and pinkeye potatoes are coming up. I intend to get more time to work in the garden and nurture a bumper harvest. I am ever hopeful, despite past experience, that I will defeat the weeds, well, temporarily at least.

‘Take rest; a field that has rested gives a beautiful crop.’, Ovid

Best wishes of the season to all.

Jocelyn (President U3A Clarence)

 

 

Laughter

Life is too short to be serious all the time. So, if you cannot laugh at yourself call me, I‘ll laugh at you. (Victor Borge) (if you can remember him you are old enough for U3A)

Let’s get serious. Laughter decreases stress hormones and increases immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies, thus improving your resistance to disease. Laughter triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Endorphins promote an overall sense of well-being and can even temporarily relieve pain.

Young children often find humour in the unusual (think of peek-a-boo for babies) and find many unusual and surprising things to laugh at. Adults do the same but the older we get the less likely we are to find everyday things unusual. That is one of the reason we like to be with babies, toddlers and young children. Their laughter is infectious and often about things we find mundane, they wake us up to the usual and unsurprising unusual. I think the most wonderful noise in the world is the first laughter of babies. It shows that they are human instead of just a bundle with one entry and one exit.

Laughter is the shortest distance between people.

I was wandering around the Modern Art Museum in Washington DC (showing off here). I am not fond of modern art but in a very long avenue I think it was the nearest museum. Some of it was interesting and some very puzzling however some of it was decidedly sick. After getting lost and looking for the exit I was distracted by a showcase full of a jumble of metal objects in some sort of arrangements. I stood for a while wondering what was the point. Looking up I noticed a man who had been doing the same. We looked at each other and jut burst into laughter. So reassuring to know we were sane, it was the others who were mad.

Laughter truly does link people. All over the world strangers meet people on their travels and some incident makes them both laugh regardless of language. Because I love small children this often happens in their vicinity, parents, grandparents and other strangers share the laughter. It gives me such a boost.

At times when I am very angry or moaning a lot, a particular friend makes me mad because she makes me laugh at myself. It is very annoying to laugh when I don’t want to.

Now for some fun

If the grass looks greener on the other side of the fence it’s probably artificial.

Don’t grow up. It’s a trap

They say nothing is impossible but I can do nothing all day.

Diets are hard because I get hungry.

People say everything happens for a reason. So when I punch you in the face remember I have a reason.

Please have a laughter filled life.

Jocelyn

Reminders

Tour of the Supreme Court

Sunday 28^th October 2018 9.30 to 12 noon

We quickly filled up the available spaces for this tour.

We will meet in the entry Foyer of the Civil Court Building. The building will be open from 9.30am and the tour will start at 10.00am. Please wear your name tags.

If there are any members who were unable to attend this tour, the Australian Institute of Architects will run three tours on Saturday November 10th at 9.30am, 11.30am and 1.30pm. The Judges participating with Peter will be Chief Justice Alan Blow, Justice Stephen Estcourt and Justice Greg Geason.  The tours are a part of 'Open House Weekend'; the program launch will be on Thursday 11th October when details of how to register will be made available. In the meantime information about the program, which will involve many interesting buildings around Hobart, is/will be available online at 'openhousehobart.org'.

Lanyards and name tags

If you need a replacement lanyard and membership name tag at any time please give Secretary Sue Storr (or me) an envelope with your name and the word Lanyard and $5.

Please wear your name tag. Should you have an accident and be unable to talk those around you know who you are. It is advisable to put emergency contact details on the back of your name tag. Also the wearing of name tags help the library staff keeps track of any unauthorised early entry to the library. For chronic name forgetters like me it helps me to have a quick peek so that I am not atrociously impolite without meaning to be (this reminds me of the old saying “An English gentleman is never impolite except on purpose”)

Christmas luncheon

Our Christmas luncheon will be held on Monday 26^th November at the Howrah Recreational Centre. There will be lucky door prizes and entertainment plus our annual fundraising raffle. Donations for prizes will be gratefully received. Please give them to me or any other committee member in room 6 at morning tea in early November.

Our caterers will be Anne Milburn as usual so we are guaranteed a good and varied feast. Because Anne provides a buffet the dietary requirement of most of us will be met. There will be an opportunity to record dietary requirement on the list on the notice Board in room 6 later in the month or early November. Both the caterer’s and the venue have increased their fees this year so the cost of the luncheon will be $40. We will subsidise any cost above this amount. Please put your $40 in an envelope with your name and the words Christmas luncheon on the outside and give it to me or any other committee member or place it in the box provided

Mugs

We need more of the stacking mugs we use for morning tea. They are not so pretty but make a big difference to storage space. They are unavailable in the shops these days. Should you have one or more lingering in at the back of your cupboards we would appreciate it if you donated it to U3A

AGM on Wednesday 20 February. More details later.

In this newsletter, we have another exciting program to interest us in the third term of 2018. I am perpetually grateful to the tutors, who give their time to provide us with new and continuing information and activities.

I find that when I have completed a course, I notice and appreciate additional facts on the subject which I would not have noticed before. So, a new book or newspaper article I read, or a TV documentary I see, is more interesting and has greater insight if I have previously taken a course on the subject. It seems to bring the issues to life. So the work of our tutors echoes through my further activities. This should not be a surprise but it is a delight.

The less formal but wide ranging discussion groups always contain at least one gem of comment which stays with me. I must confess to being nonplussed at times, that people who are more intelligent than I and whom I respect, do not always hold the same opinions that I do. How strange! Joking aside, it is this exchange of very different viewpoints which make the discussions so interesting and they open my mind to a different, perhaps more balanced view.

This term, I have been particularly enjoying Britain on Film with Paul Bywater, so bitter sweet. We are the first generation to be able to easily see our parents, their contemporaries or our younger selves on film. The past is less far away to us than to our grandparents at the same age who relied on memory alone.

Activities which are not so information focused such as Tai Chi, meditation, circle dancing, painting or art give greater enhancement to the inner being of those taking part and enhance their physical health.

As usual, we have a well-balanced mix of courses covering most aspects of intellectual and physical well-being for us in our third age. All of this, of course, is almost self evident but I try not to take it for granted. It is good sometimes to see expected things in a fresh light.

As Oliver Wendell Smith said:-

A man’s mind, stretched by new ideas, may never return to its original dimensions.

You have been warned!

Jocelyn Head (getahead@bigpond.net.au)

President

 

U3A Clarence Newsletter August 2018

U3A Clarence Newsletter January 2014 2014eadline Here

 

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TERM 3 PROGRAM: MONDAY SESSION 1: 9.30-10.25

M311	GERMAN FOR BEGINNERS KARIN WIDER This course will mostly involve conversation, but there will also be some practice at writing and reading.
M312	Britain on film: the 1940s and 1950s PAUL BYWATER We will look at public information films and docu-dramas made during the 1940s and early 1950s for screening in cinemas by government departments and private producers. These will provide an insight into British life and attitudes during the war years and up to the Festival of Britain in 1951.
M313	INDIAN CUISINE (first 5 weeks) GERRY & YO FREED Enjoy the styles and flavours of one of the great cuisines of the world. Learn to cook different dishes, and get wonderful recipes.
M314	TURNING POINTS IN THE HISTORY OF ART (last 5 weeks from 22 Oct) ANNA MELTON A look at Art History from earliest art to contemporary. In particular, how is it affected by the historical and social context to which it belongs, what major changes take place in and why. The content will be similar to last year’s course, but taken at a more leisurely pace allowing for more audience participation and some extra content. To be continued Term 1, 2019.
M315	PAINTING FACILITATOR: MARG DILGER This is a self-directed course working predominantly in watercolour. This class is full.
M316	CRAFTY CHRISTMAS (first 5 weeks) GAYE HYND Sharing decorating ideas for Christmas.
M317	GHOSTLY TALES OF TASMANIA (last 5 weeks from 22 Oct) JANE HALL This is a look at Tasmanian folklore and facts about spooks, spectres and things that go bump in the night. Believe in these or not, this will look at Tasmania’s past and how the tales grew in the first place. The past 200 years are well documented and the stories are relatively intact.
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: MONDAY SESSION 2: 10.50-11.50
M321	THE WRITERS COLIN PYEFINCH An opportunity for those who enjoy writing (or would like to) to share their efforts in a friendly atmosphere of mutual support and encouragement.
M322	HISTORY OF CLIMATE CHANGE ALBERT GOEDE This course will look at the history of climate change.
M323	A VIRTUAL WALK ALONG THE MIDLAND HIGHWAY WAYNE SMITH A virtual walk through the history of Campbell Town, Cleveland and Perth incorporating biographies of pioneers, photos of heritage properties, the first settlers, later property owners and district folklore including bushranger raids and local scandals.
M324	PAINTING MARGARET DILGER This is a self-directed course working predominantly in watercolour. New members welcome.
M325	LINE DANCING – CONTINUING BEV CHANDLER This course is for people who have been line dancing here or elsewhere. It is NOT for beginners. We dance to a variety of music, the emphasis being on socialising and having fun while being physically active. This course is full.
M326	SEATED (CHAIR-BASED) TAI CHI/SHIBASHI EILEEN LEVETT Chair-based Tai Chi/Shibashi (one of the many branches of Tai Chi) aims to encourage overall health and a feeling of well-being and mindfulness.
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: MONDAY SESSION 3: 12.00-1.00
M331	POETRY READING CHRIS BISHOP Read poems you like and ones you remember. Recite any verses that tickle your fancy, or maybe a song or rhyme that you’ve written.
M332	KALEIDOSCOPE JANE HALL & JULIE BOTHMAN A different speaker will speak on their own area of knowledge or interest. Subjects will be topical and presented at a readily understood level. The dates may vary for each speaker.
M332	17/9/18 Discussion on Research Tony Cook 24/9/18 How to Deconstruct a Newspaper Sheila Allison 1/10/18 “Share the Dignity” Tania 8/10/18 Towards Zero Tasmanian Safety Strategy 2017-2026 Craig Hoey 15/10/18 The Healthy Brain Project Report Menzies Centre 22/10/18 A Musician’s Journey in Time and Place Michael Fortescue 29/10/18 Discussion of Intergenerational Research Findings Peta Cook 5/11/18 Collecting Lauren Carpenter (ABC Collectors) 12/11/18 A Guide Dog’s Journey to Helping People with Low Vision Kristy Wright and Dexter (RGT) 19/11/18 Protecting your Finances Kerri Rose and Annette Horsley (COTA)
M333	UPDATES OF THE FRONTIERS OF ASTRONOMY AND COSMOLOGY SCIENCE PETER TAYLOR We will look at new developments in astronomy, the discoveries and how they are continually changing and updating our views on the universe.
M334	CONTINUATION TAI CHI/SHIBASHI EILEEN LEVETT Tai Chi/Shibashi (one of the many branches of Tai Chi) will aim to: refine current technique introduce Yi Jin Jing – 12 new ‘Energy Postures’ encourage continuing health, a feeling of well-being and mindfulness
M335	SPANISH SELF DIRECTED This is a continuing course so new students should have a basic knowledge of the language.
M336	GERMAN CONVERSATION SELF DIRECTED German conversation for German speakers wanting conversational practice. New members are welcome in the group but you need to have a reasonable grasp of the language.
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: MONDAY SESSION 4: 1.15-2.15
M341	LINE DANCING - CONTINUING BEV CHANDLER Line dancing for seniors or beginners. We dance to a variety of music, the emphasis being on socialising and having fun while being physically active.
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: WEDNESDAY SESSION 1: 9.30-10.25
W311	EXTREME GEOLOGY PETER STEVENSON
W312	THE THUCYDIDES TRAP: IS WAR BETWEEN CHINA & AMERICA STEVE TOLBERT INEVITABLE? (first 5 weeks) Thucydides Trap: when a rising power threatens to displace a ruling one, the most likely outcome is war. This has happened 16 times in the last 500 years: 12 ended in war. How likely is a 13th?
W313	TRAVELLING THE SEVEN SEAS WITH BRADSHAW’S MICKEY BENEFIEL (last 5 weeks from 24 Oct) A continuation of a course presented in 2017. The European tourist attractions as they were, using Bradshaw’s Tourist Guide to Europe, published in March 1913. A period that would be the last of its kind. You will see the world through the eyes of people of the time, and European kings, emperors and other leaders approaching the advent of war in 1914.
W314	CHAUCER’S PEOPLE MARGARET ROSE & ROWENA MACKEOWN The Middle Ages were turbulent times. In the fourteenth century alone, England was ravaged by war, plague, revolt and the overthrow of a king. Among the surviving records, the poetry of Geoffrey Chaucer is the most vivid. But what can it tell us about the everyday lives of medieval men and women?
W315	TRADITIONAL CHINESE PAINTING MICHAEL WU This class is an opportunity to learn traditional Chinese painting from a Chinese artist who works in the field. Michael is visiting from China and is offering these sessions to Clarence U3A.
W316	MAH JONG JAN CHIPMAN Play and/or learn Mah Jong. Two hours for those who want to stay.
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: WEDNESDAY SESSION 2: 10.50-11.50
W321	SINGING FOR FUN BEV CHANDLER & REGAN LOVE Choral work involving male and female singers- with a varied range of work from shows, gospel, comedy, formal etc. with performances if suitable.
W322	WHAT MAKES WESTERN MUSIC SO UNIQUE? NINA THOMAS Why do we like some musical works and dislike others? This course looks at how Western music evolved from Egyptian through to the 20th century, and why it speaks to us logically and emotionally. We delve into the elements of music looking at melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, dynamics and how they affect us.
W323	FRENCH CLUB SELF DIRECTED Continuing course for those participants from last term. Newcomers are welcome but some basic knowledge of the language would be preferable.
W324	SKETCHING/DRAWING SELF DIRECTED
W325	TAI CHI SELF-DIRECTED This class is self-directed and will be following a recently purchased DVD.
W326	MAH JONG – CONTINUATION FROM SESSION 1
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: WEDNESDAY SESSION 3: 12.00-1.00
W321	DNA AND YOU (A rerun) JOHN COLL The course looks at the development of genetics and the vital role of DNA in our present and past self-images.
W332	ARMCHAIR TRAVEL MARY BOLTON & SUE PAMPLIN The course takes us to all corners of the world. We enjoy cruises, train trips, bus tours, walking adventures, all from the comfort of our chairs at LINC.
	19/9/18 Unseen Italy and Slovenia John Bothman 26/9/18 Wilds of Scotland Pat Olding 3/10/18 China Maggie McKerrbreher 10/10/18 South America Sally O’May 17/10/18 TBA Genevieve Atkins 24/10/18 Brazil and Colombia Warwick Moore 31/10/18 Finland Peter Sands 7/11/18 Norway Pat Jeffery 14/11/18 Italy Jude Mudaliar 21/11/18 TBA
W333	FELLOW AUSTRALIANS WHO LEAD INTERESTING AND DIFFERENT PATRICIA CORBY LIVES People are so interesting. I love meeting and learning about them. This term we have 10 new people to get to know – an Ashley boy turned altar boy, a migrant ABC reporter, a Tasmanian gardener and indigenous rights activist, a celebrated artist, a youth outreach worker and numerous others I have found on my discovery path. Come along and meet them!
W334	PLAY READING MICKEY BENEFIEL If you have ever attended a play that you really liked, come and join in re-creating the sometimes hilarious, sometimes mysterious, but ALWAYS fascinating and fun masterpieces of the theatre. There will be plenty of parts for you to choose from. Something to suit every kind of capability.
W335	CIRCLE DANCING PETER SANDS & ANGELA TAMAYO Circle dancing draws its roots from European folk dance traditions such as Balkan, Greek, Rom and Israeli dance. The music is incredibly varied, from traditional Gypsy to modern folk and classical. Circle dancing is exercise for the body and the soul, and the circle is open and welcoming. Angela will teach mainly traditional Balkan, and Peter mainly contemporary circle dances.
W336	CHESS SELF DIRECTED The aim of this course is to introduce the game to beginners and assist in the improvement of skills for those wishing to improve their game. Above all, the aim is to enjoy this ancient game.
	TERM 3 PROGRAM: WEDNESDAY SESSION 4: 1.15-2.15
W341	LINE DANCING – CONTINUING 2 BEV CHANDLER This course is for people who have been line dancing here or elsewhere. This course is NOT for beginners. We dance to a variety of music, the emphasis being on socialising and having fun while being physically active. This course is full.

Most of your Wednesday set-up crew: We get the furniture unpacked and set up, the morning tea almost completely ready and the sound and visual systems going.

We would love more people to come and help, then share a hot drink with us. We meet at 8.40 a.m. outside the front door.

‘A Supreme Opportunity’

The Supreme Court in Salamanca has an ‘Open House Weekend’ in November and allows conducted tours. Usually the tours are booked as soon as they are advertised. One of our members, Peter Partridge, can arrange for our members to have advanced notice and therefore book early for these tours.

This year the tours are planned for Saturday 10th November and perhaps additional tours on the Sunday. There will be a list for participants to sign on the notice Board when we return in September and contact should be made through Peter by phone or email as mentioned in the notice.

If you are interested, you should act quickly.

U3A Clarence Inc

Important Dates for Sept 17 2018 to end 2019

Term 3 2018 Monday 17 September – Wednesday 21 November

Special 25^th Anniversary Event – Thursday, October 4^th, 10 a.m.– 3.30pm., Blundstone Arena.

Committee Meetings	Mon 24 Sept	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 22 Oct	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 12 Nov	1.15-2.30	Room 1
Newsletter	Mon 12 Nov
Christmas Luncheon	Mon 26 Nov	12 noon	Howrah Recreational Centre

**** 2019 ****

Pre- term 2019 Note: Term 1 dates have changed to allow 10 full weeks.

Newsletter	Mon 21 Jan
Committee Meeting	Wed 6 Feb	1.15-2.30	Room 1
Enrolment Day	Wed 13 Feb	10:00-12.00	Room 6
AGM	Wed 20 Feb	1.30-3.30	Room 6 Afternoon tea Guest Speaker

Revised: Term 1 2019 Monday 4 March - Wednesday 22 May

No classes Monday11 and 13 March (Public holiday week)

No classes Monday 22 April and Wednesday 24 April (Easter)

This gives 10 Mondays and 10 Wednesdays

Committee Meetings	Mon 18 March	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 15 April	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 13 May	1.15-2.30	Room 1
Newsletter	Mon 13 May

Term 2 2019 Monday 17 June – Wednesday 21 August

Committee Meetings	Mon 24 June	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 22 July	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 12 Aug	1.15-2.30	Room 1
Newsletter	Mon 12Aug

Term 3 2019 Monday 16 September – Wednesday 20 November

Committee Meetings	Mon 23 Sept	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 21 Oct	1.15-2.30	Room 1
	Mon 11 Nov	1.15-2.30	Room 1
Newsletter	Mon 11 Nov
Christmas Luncheon	Mon 25 Nov	12 noon	Howrah Recreational Centre

25^th Anniversary Commemorative Booklet

The 25^th Anniversary Commemorative Booklet, for which many members submitted contributions, has been compiled by the editorial sub-committee. During a number of classes, photos were taken. At the discretion of the graphic designer who is doing the layout, some of these photos may be included in the booklet. The booklet will be launched officially at the anniversary event at Blundstone Arena on 4 October.

As there will be a limited print run of the booklet, if you would like to ensure you get a copy or copies, you may pre-order them on the order sheet that has been placed on the noticeboard in the morning tea room.

The price is $10 per copy. Please place your payment in an envelope, clearly marked with your full name and the amount enclosed, in the Booklet Box in the morning tea room.

Pre-ordered copies can be collected at the Blundstone Arena event, after the booklet has been launched.

Any remaining copies will be available for sale on U3A days after the anniversary event.

*****

AIDE MEMOIRE

Note the courses you have enrolled in to give yourself a record of them. Monday Wednesday
Session 1	Session 1
Session 2	Session 2
Session 3	Session 3
Session 4	Session 4

ENROLMENTS DUE: Wed, September 7.

Enrolling:

You can do this online (see the next page), or on paper using the enrolment form enclosed. (Note: this time it is on two sides of the sheet.) Drop it in the box at U3A, or post it.

Postal address is U3A Clarence Enrolments, PO Box 774, Rosny Park,7018.

Please speak to one of our Committee members if you would like help to enrol online, or reassurance you can do it. It really is not that hard, and while you enrol you can have a good look at our revamped website.

ENROLLING ONLINE

Enrolling online is simple, quick, cheap and environmentally friendly.

1. Just Google U3A Clarence to get to our home page.

2. Click on ‘Course Info’ at the top of the page to find out about the courses and enrolment.

3. On the enrolment form click on the circle next to each course you wish to attend. If you are not attending a course during that session, click None.

4. If two people are enrolling from the same email address, you may need to refresh the page before the second enrolment.

5. Click submit!

6. You should receive an email message confirming your enrolment. If you don’t, try again.

7. Next – visit the Subscription/Membership form and complete your details. Everyone should do this if joining for the first time in the year.

NOW give yourself a pat on the back and explore the rest of the website!

N.B. YOU DO NOT NEED TO COMPLETE THE SUBSCRIPTION/MEMBERSHIP FORM OR PAY A SUBSCRIPTION UNLESS YOU ARE JOINING FOR THE FIRST TIME THIS YEAR.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION (membership) FEE FOR 2018

$45 PER PERSON

YOU MUST SUBMIT THIS FORM WHETHER YOU PAY ONLINE, OR BY CHEQUE, MONEY ORDER OR CASH

Name (s) __________________________________________________

Preferred name (s) for name tag (s) _______________________________________________

Phone __________________________

Email address ________________________________

Residential address ___________________________________________________________

__________________________________________Post Code _________

Method of payment and amount paid - cheque, money order, cash or direct credit $ _______

Please make your cheque or money order payable to U3A Clarence and mail with this form to

PO Box 774 Rosny Park 7018 or hand it in at U3A.

You can pay online as follows:

MEMBERSHIP PAYMENTS BY DIRECT CREDIT

Members can pay their U3A Clarence subscriptions by direct credit. Payments can be made by visiting a bank and making a deposit to our account, or by electronic funds transfer to our account. Whichever method is used to make a direct credit payment, it is essential that the following information is recorded as part of the transaction:

Account name: University of the Third Age – Clarence Inc

BSB: 067103

Account number: 10059047

Reference: Member’s first name and surname

Please note:

When making a deposit at a bank you must ensure that your reference information (first and last name) is recorded whether or not the teller asks for the details.

Please address any Subscription or Payment queries to the Treasurer, Terry Mahoney.

July 5^th Excursion to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

An intrepid group of ten explorers was conducted through the new Bond Store galleries to investigate the colonial collections. Our guide helped us see the potential of the collections and pointed out particularly interesting exhibits. One interesting aspect was the amount of material accessible if you only knew to look in the drawers underneath display cabinets. Many fascinating items are squirreled away, we discovered.

We discovered the ways early settlers saw their new world, came to record it and exploited it. The wars with the traditional owners of Tasmania were a theme of one gallery. The last gallery we examined held all sorts of interesting memorabilia from our past, including the currencies used and the way they developed. My favourite was a chair with solid metal rings for carrying poles. This chair was used to carry Lady Jane Franklin when she took breaks from walking during her epic journey to the West Coast with Governor Franklin.

Left: Snakebite antivenom created and sold by Charles Underwood in the 1800s.

Tasmania’s first one pound note – from the Colonial Galleries, TMAG.

by Anna Melton

(Newsletter Editor)

TRANSPORTED BY THE DELIGHTS OF MUSIC

by Jane Hall (Co-Coordinator for Kaleidoscope)

On Monday July 30^th, our Kaleidoscope group were joined by a number of other members to attend a presentation by Frances The.

Frances is a professional musician with an orchestra based in Amsterdam. Also, she belongs to another group of musicians who play Baroque music in the manner and style it would have been presented by the composer. Frances has been invited to play in Sydney and Melbourne. Being a Tasmanian, she coupled this with a visit home to see family and friends. She kindly offered to present her renditions at U3A Clarence, Hobart and Kingston.

There was some interesting discussion on how musicians need to be sleuths to discover what the composer had in mind and the style of the violin and bows - including how these were held by the musician.

Frances then played several pieces for us and we were transported for that time.

I was thrilled to be able to arrange this presentation. Also, I want to give credit to all members who attended, making this a worthwhile exercise for Frances.

Thanks also to Eileen Levett and her Tai Chi group who very kindly exchanged rooms for the session, allowing more people to attend in comfort and for our presenter to have the “best” room for acoustics.

l

Finally my winter fat is gone. Now I have spring rolls.

In the winter we snuggle up, decline to go for healthy walks and in the longer evenings we are tempted to indulge in chocolates and lollies and other temptations which we would be too busy for in the warmer weather.

I usually make only a working cup of coffee to take with me into the garden or study to keep me on track. In the winter it is too tempting to have a biscuit as well even though I do not have a sweet tooth. Consequently I find my clothes have shrunk!

I am looking forward to warmer weather when a salad is the best bet and to longer days when I will be tempted into the garden for an extra half an hour rather than just drop in a chair in front of anything on the TV. If I try really hard perhaps I will manage to take off a little weight. I have no complaints with my current weight but if I continue to put it on like I have recently I will be like the back of a bus or a hippopotamus in a couple of years.

Even the garden is bursting out all over. My native plants are still giving lots of colour; the bulbs are joyfully welcoming spring, the Camellias are giving a wonderful display and Daphne is scenting the garden for me.

For many years after moving to Acton we had a breeding pair of frogmouths on our property. The male arrives first and makes a very low almost droning cooing noise then the female joins him. They are difficult to see against the gum tree branches and sit so close together that it takes a while to make out that there are two of them. We had young ones consistently for over 30 years, mostly two but sometimes only one. Then after some drought years we did not see any for about 3 years. This year we were delighted to see the pair back. Unfortunately there are no babies. I can only assume that after dry weather there are not enough small mammals and insects to feed them enough to raise offspring. We are keeping our fingers crossed for next year. I find them such fascinating birds

We do have our first currawong in the garden this week. Seeing them close on the ground rather than in a tree I realize how big they are and what a ferocious beak.

I am quite pleased with myself. I have planted my spring pinkeye potatoes this year. Perhaps it is not too late to start another strawberry bed. The garden cycle is so comforting. As the seasons come and go it gives me a lift and reminds me that I am a small but relevant part of a much larger whole.

I don’t bother with spring cleaning I only have to do it all again next year. (Maxine)

PTO for News

Supreme Opportunity

Tour of the Supreme Court

Sunday 28^th October 2018 9.30 to 12 noon

Every year the Australian Institute of Architects arranges, with the owners of interesting buildings, for access to be given to the public. For the last few years the Supreme Court of Tasmania has opened its buildings in Salamanca Place and allowed conducted tours.  Traditionally the tours have been hosted by the Chief Justice or a Supreme Court Judge who provides information and answers questions regarding the Court. Peter Partridge, the architect of the complex, talks about the buildings’ design. 

We are very fortunate in that Peter is a member of our U3A and has arranged a tour on Sunday 28 October exclusively for U3A Clarence. As the tour will visit all parts of the buildings, pre-registration together with wearing our name badges is a requirement.

Security and access has been arranged from 9.30am until noon.

No name badge no entry. If you need a replacement lanyard and membership name badge please give Secretary Sue Storr (or me) an envelope with your name on it and $5.

The tour is free and numbers are limited. Attendees will be on their feet for the whole of the 2 hours and will need to cope with stairs. We will meet in the entry foyer of the Civil Court Building and the tour will start at 10.00am. There will be a list for interested members on the Board in room 6.

Anniversary booklet $10

Our 25^th Anniversary commemorative booklet “In Celebration of Silver: U3A Clarence Turns 25” will be launched at our special event on 4 October at Blundstone Arena. It comprises a delightful variety of member prose, poetry and photographs. Pre-ordered copies that have been paid for will be available for collection immediately after the launch.

Any remaining copies will be sold on U3A days during the remainder of Term 3. If you want to be assured of your copy or copies, please place your order on the sheets on the U3A noticeboard.

Why not purchase extra copies? They would make lovely gifts for family or friends. The price is $10:00 per booklet, but we are offering a special deal for members who pre-order and pre-pay: buy two for $17:00 or three for $25:00. Of course this offer also applies to those who have already pre-ordered and paid for their copies.

To order your booklet please use put your name on the list on the notice board in room 6

Payments should be placed in an envelope with your name and number of copies on the front, and the envelope should then be dropped into the Silver Anniversary box on the table in the morning tea room.

Electronic payments may be made as usual. Account name : University of the Third Age – Clarence Inc. BSB : 06 7103 (CBA Rosny Park) Account number : 059047 Reference : Member’s first name and surname and the word booklet

Christmas luncheon Our Christmas luncheon will be held on Monday 26^th November at the Howrah Recreational Centre. More details later.

AGM on Wednesday 20 February. More details later.

President’s Message July 2018

Can you tell me where the delete winter button is? Jeanne Owens

As the dusk descends by about 5 pm on the shorter days it is time to turn on the heater, draw the curtains, put on as many clothes as possible (blow colour coordination) and curl up in a ball and hope to hibernate. It is the time for hearty broths and casseroles which are ignored in the summer (wonderful slow cooking). We can justify eating these substantial meals without guilt because we need the fuel. We always nibble more in the long boring evenings. We will worry about the new spare tire in the spring not now.

The shortest day is past and I am beginning to notice the lengthening of the days, which makes me feel more optimistic. The coldest month is August so there is a shortage of real comfort.

Wandering around the garden is a bit solemn except that the native plants come into flower. Is it my imagination that the wattle is blooming earlier each year? Cutting back the fuchsias seems a good idea and not too challenging.

My mind turns to the vegetable garden, very slowly and reluctantly. Shall I bother with pink eye potatoes this year? Have I cut back the perennial runner beans and sufficiently protected them from the frost? I need to plant strawberries again as I cleared the beds completely in autumn. What about tomatoes in October is it worth it when a neighbor grows plenty for a good price? Still it is lovely to eat tasty home grown. What about zucchini, always too much for us but nice to distribute them at 6 to 8 inches to friends and neighbours. I can do a great deal of gardening and feel quite virtuous without moving from my armchair.

Winter is also the time to look at cruise brochures to plan for the future without spending a penny (oops showing my age), moving from a chair or committing a fortune and, at the same time, quietly meditating on the wonderful trips we have made. The Freycinet Peninsular is perennially beautiful and when I think of it I am reminded of all the visiting friends and family we have taken there.

Perhaps I don’t hate winter as much as I thought

I’m sorry for what I wore when I was cold

News

Trivia afternoon

We have arranged our traditional Trivia Quiz afternoon on Thursday August 9 at the Howrah Recreational Centre 1-3pm. This is always a fun event with a pleasant afternoon tea. Cost will still be $10.

25 Anniversary Celebration

Please register for this event soon and before 31 August, because we have a final date to advise Blundstone of numbers. In response to queries I have received I have a short notice of advice about details on the next page for those going.

I also list on the next page some forthcoming events which you may be interested in.

Jocelyn

president@u3aclarence.com

Interesting events for your action

UTAS Open Day Sunday August 5^th 10 am to 3pm. 17, Liverpool Street.

The UTAS Medical Science Precinct will be open to the public and will have activities to showcase medical research and technology

Festival of Bright Ideas Saturday August 18^th 10 am to 5 pm. Princes Wharf 1, Hobart.

Menzies will be at Tasmania’ largest science engagement festival. Come and chat with the PhD students to learn something new and surprising about the Human body.

2018 Menzies Debate Thursday September 13^th UTAS Medical precinct. 5.30 for nibbles and drinks. Debate 6 to 7.30pm

SURGERY IS THE BEST THERAPY FOR OSTEOARTHRITIS

Six expert speakers all kept in line by the funny and irreverent Bernie Hobbs from ABC Science. You get to vote on the outcome.

Information and registration at Menzies Facebook page, www.menzies.uta.edu.au or reception desk 6226-7700

25^th Anniversary Reminders

Seating

Seating will not be allocated. If you want to make up a group, make sure you get there early and delegate one of your group to select the table.

I think it is good to use these events to get to know new people or to catch up with others you have shared lectures with in the past but have not seen for a while.

Parking

Parking around Blundstone Arena can be a problem on a busy day so try to get there early. Drop off your passengers if necessary and park a little further away.

Arrival Time

9.30 Unless you are one of the set up crew. There is under cover waiting area at Blundstone’s Arena so you can be safe from bad weather should you arrive too early.

Buses

Buses will leave Rosny at 9.15am and Depart from Blundstone Arena at 3.30 pm.

Payment for non Members

I have been asked if it is possible for non members to pay on the day. This is not possible because we have to let Blundstone’s know the final numbers before then.

The online registration form has information regarding electronic payment. Cheques should be payable to U3A Clarence and posted to Box 774, Rosny Park 7018. Cash will be accepted in an envelope clearly marked with the amount ($35 per person), the name of the person attending and their contact details.

Final Point Make sure you enjoy the day.