Another lockdown, now for another start up!

All classes resumed on Monday 21st June.  Hopefully, we can all continue and enjoy our classes together for the rest of the year.  Thank you to all our Convenors for coping with the stop start.  I know some of you continued to offer your classes in other ways.

Our Covid Safe Plan is the same as before--sign in with the QR Code using the Services Victoria App.  If you are unable to do this, a Sign In sheet is available.  We have been working with members keen to learn to use the QR Code as part of the On Target program.  If you need help, On Target Drop-In sessions will run on Thursday mornings from 10-12 on the 8th 15th 22nd & 29th July.

A reminder to members of groups who ride-share that the rate for ride-sharing set by the Committee is $5, to be given to the driver by each passenger, with payment adjusted by agreement for short or longer trips. 
 
We have been successful with a Grant Application to assist with the running costs of our Play Reading Group.  U3A Benalla appreciate the support of the Benalla Rural City Council. The financial support from the Council enables us to keep our Annual Registration Fee at one of the lowest in Victoria.

Dorothy Webber
President

Thanks to Benalla Rural City we have been successful with our recent Community Grant Application.  We have received $2,500 to provide visual equipment in the Senior’s Auditorium for use by U3A Benalla and the Senior Citizens.

Some of the classes have had a drop in numbers, which is not unusual for this time of the year.  Convenors, don’t be disheartened, it’s just the way things go.

The small meeting room is now available for use, though no technology has been installed yet. The rubbish bins now have Padlocks put on them to stop the public using them.    The keys are on the wall inside the kitchen door.  In other news,  the hot water is now up and running!

We are still confirming details of regional restrictions following the initial lockdown and working to clarify whether U3A classes or groups can meet.  If necessary we will draw upon previous strategies developed to offer alternatives.  We will keep you updated when we have further information. ­­

Keep safe everyone.

Dorothy Webber, President

April marked the commencement of the U3A Benalla’s involvement in Wesfarmers Digital Inclusion Partnership Program, a response to the closure of the Target Store in Benalla on Saturday April 10.  The program we are offering ‘On Target--Learning to Shop Online’, commenced with an orientation session in late April for members of the Benalla community keen to undertake the transition to online shopping.  Participants will also be encouraged to learn other vital digital skills required by the modern world, including online Government services, online banking, paying bills online and safe internet usage.  For members of the community who do not have a smart phone which will support online shopping, the pilot program will provide participants with one.  Although the program has commenced any member of the Benalla community who would like to participate can ring me on 0412 263 071 to enrol.

Thank you to the Convenors who attended the Convenors meeting on Wednesday 21 April after Meet and Mingle.  Items raised during the meeting included changes which have been happening in the building and the availability of training and support for convenors in using equipment.

The small meeting room is now empty.  The carpet will be cleaned, new locks and furniture installed, then it will be available for use. 
 
Training and support for convenors in the use of the Photocopier is provided by Geraldine on 0408 522 662 and the use of the Overhead Projector by Margaret on 0424454313.  If you would like to learn how to operate the new Dishwasher in the kitchen, please ring me on 0412 263 071.

A message to members – please remember to sign in to the Seniors Building using the QR code or sign in sheet as you enter the building; to sign the U3A record sessions attended at any venue; to bring your own cup; and, if you are feeling unwell, not to attend classes or activities but to get tested for COVID 19. 

I have become aware that some people don’t know about the Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme. This enables you to claim for travel and accommodation expenses when you have a medical appointment more than 100 Km from home.  Forms are available wherever you have your appointment. The form must be signed by the Medical Practitioner.
​
Dorothy Webber

​​​We have experienced and survived 2020 and are coming to live the new normal.

Two days after our 2020 AGM, U3A Benalla closed for what we thought would be three, maybe four months, never believing it would be 12 months.

In April 2020 some of the committee and members started to learn how to use Zoom. With this new knowledge some Convenors started Zoom Classes others stayed together on email and phone.

As the time dragged on the Committee used Zoom and when permitted face to face Meetings.

There was a lot of discussion about how we could start up but as we had no idea when this would be, it was impossible to forward plan.  A lot of time was spent looking at possible venues as the Seniors Building was closed. We were offered some accommodation ideas by Council and chairs and tables. The accommodation wasn’t suitable, but we have accepted the chairs and tables and these will be used in the small meeting room (the Seniors old office).  Once set up this room will be used for smaller groups.

In September 2020 I was advised by Benalla Rural City Council that Grant money was available to do some more upgrades to the Seniors Community Building. I am happy that improvements are continuing as it is 4 years since U3A started using the Building and needs change with our growing numbers.

Our Membership stands at 320 with 39 new members for 2021.  44 Classes are on offer for Semester 1.

We are so fortunate to have Bev Lee who is our Website Manager.  Our website is one of the reasons we attract new members each year.  Thanks to Bev our webpage is always up to date.

Thanks to the Conveners who stepped aside and have helped with a smooth transition.

A special mention and thank you to Margaret Walsh who has convened Easy Walks for a number of years.

I congratulate the first time Convenors and thank them for stepping up.  Without you and all our wonderful, experienced Convenors there wouldn’t be a Benalla U3A.

I won’t mention individuals as I may miss some one, but over the past year we had a number of members pass away. My condolences to their families and friends.  Plus, a number have moved away from Benalla and I wish them happiness for the next stage of their life journey.

Lastly my thanks to the Committee who all work towards the running of, I think a very successful U3A.

​We have two committee members retiring Bill Parris and Pat Gardiner.

Bill has been my Vice-President. Thank you, Bill for all the interesting speakers you have arranged for Meet & Mingle.  Enjoy your travels with Jane.

Pat has been on the committee for 16 years and has spent 11 years keeping the tea coffee and biscuit tins full, also sending out the many get well, congratulation and condolences cards, thank you Pat.

The Committee has decided to present Pat with Life Membership.

After a horrible 2020 it is my hope that our Benalla U3A goes from strength to strength in 2021.

​I would like to thank all the members who have given me encouragement and support over the past year.

Thank you.
 
Dorothy Webber
President

​Following a successful enrolment day, we welcomed back external activities and a number of classes at the Hub and the Town Hall in early February.

Classes at the Seniors Centre resumed on  Monday 22 February.  Guided by convenors, members need to follow Covid regulations which include, where possible, signing in to the building using the QR Code available on the entrance to the Seniors building or near the U3A Meeting Room door.  If you can't check in with the QR Code you will need to complete the sign in sheet.  Ticking the class roll is still required.  This will also support contact tracing as phone numbers have been listed on the roll for contact purposes. 

​We are also asking members to 'book in' for  classes and activities by email or phone where possible, (as Chat N Chew, Wine Appreciation already do) so the convenors know numbers likely to attend. 

Coffee, tea and milk will now be available in the Seniors Building and the Hub, however you will need to bring your own mug if you wish to have morning tea.

U3A Benalla and District’s Annual General Meeting will be held at Meet and Mingle on Wednesday March 17th.  I would like to thank retiring members Bill Parris and Pat Gardner for the highly valued work they have done on the Committee for a number of years.  Positions are now vacant for two members.  If you are interested in stepping up and joining the committee, the 2021 Executive/Committee Nomination Form is now available.
​
Dorothy Webber, President

​Following a successful enrolment day, We have been able to welcome back external activities and a number of classes at the Hub and the Town Hall. 

However, with the lock down announced on Friday 12 February, courses or activities will not be held until Thursday 18th February, perhaps longer if the lockdown is extended.

Access to the Seniors Centre is unlikely until at least Monday 22 February as we will be unable to inspect the building and gain access to the keys until Thursday 18th.  All courses/ activities in the U3A Meeting Room have therefore been cancelled until at least Monday 22 February.  In what might well be a 'stop start' year, the U3A Meeting Room may not be available until the beginning of March.   

​Your convenor will make contact to update you about any changes in meeting dates and venues.    We are also asking members to 'book in' for  classes and activities by email or phone (as Chat N Chew, Wine Appreciation and some other classes already do) so the convenor knows the numbers likely to attend. 

U3A Benalla and District’s Annual General Meeting will be held at Meet and Mingle on Wednesday March 17th.  I would like to thank retiring members Bill Parris and Pat Gardner for the highly valued work they have done on the Committee for a number of years.  Positions are now vacant for two members.  If you are interested in stepping up and joining the committee, a nomination form for 2021 will be available on the website soon. 
​
Dorothy Webber, President

Welcome back to U3A.    Following a successful enrolment day, the timetable for the first half of 2021 will commence on 1st February 2021.   Your convenor will have been in contact with you prior to the commencement of groups with details of where and when your activities begin.     As was included in the Covid Safe plan in the January Newsletter, morning and afternoon teas will not be available at the present time.    If you require beverages or food you can bring your own.   Remember, any member of U3A Benalla who is feeling unwell is asked not to attend a class or group to which they belong, but instead get tested for COVID 19 after phoning Benalla Health to make an appointment.

Members who have an activity scheduled at the U3A Room at the Senior Citizens Centre during the first two weeks of February have been advised that, unless they have been notified by their convenor of a change of venue, their activities will not take place until at least the week beginning 15th February as building alterations/renovations are still taking place at the Senior Citizens Centre.  Unless you have been advised by your coordinator of a change of venue, then your activity will not take place.  Hopefully, we can get back to our usual accommodation by the third week of February.  I will give you an update during the second week of February.  

All other groups, I hope you enjoy getting back together after such a long break.'

U3A Benalla and District’s Annual General Meeting will be held prior to Meet and Mingle on Wednesday March 17th.   There will be more information in the next newsletter.
​
Dorothy Webber
President

As Dorothy our President goes through the process of moving house, I am happy to give her report this month.  Our sympathy to Rupe Cheetham and family on the passing of Gwen.  Gwen will be missed very much in U3A.  Hopefully, all those who have been unwell are feeling much better as restrictions begin to lift and the future looks brighter. 

Many of our members are enquiring about the possibility of resuming our activities in the near future.  The negotiations with Council and venues such as the Bowls Club are continuing.  The Benalla Bowls Club have been very helpful, but as they run their rooms as a business we have to fit around their ongoing commitments.  It is a real possibility we will be using their facilities for some of 2021.  Council still cannot give us a definite answer as to when we can use our room at the Seniors complex, but we continue to talk with them. 

The committee have had another Zoom meeting and are confident of having a real face meeting next week, as timetables and venues for 2021 need to be finalised.  The committee moved that enrolment fees for existing members in 2021 will be waived, new members will still have to pay enrolment fees. 

Some of the smaller groups are looking forward to having a reunion before Christmas, in the form of lunch or a gathering in the gardens.  We are also holding an informal pre-Christmas social gathering for all U3A members under the trees near the Benalla Art Gallery on Wednesday 16 December from 10 to 11.30 am – bring your own chair, beverages and Christmas cakes. 

A newsletter with further information and an Enrolment Form will be sent out in January informing everyone of our movements for the first semester. 
  
Have a Happy Christmas everyone and may 2021 be a much better year all round. 
​
Geraldine McCorkell
Secretary

The morning get-together in the Gardens was most enjoyable.  We plan to continue these social gatherings, with the next gathering to be held on Tuesday November 10th from 10 – 11.30, again in the Benalla Gardens near the Art Gallery.

We are continuing to work with Council and are looking at possible venues for sessions next year while the air conditioning is being renovated at the Seniors Community Centre. 

With changes in Covid-19 rules happening all the time, it has been hard to plan additional sessions with any degree of certainty.  Convenors are encouraged to organise end of year meetings/celebrations for their groups in line with social distancing regulations.

My thanks go to all our Convenors for being positive and keeping in touch with the Committee and Members.  To the Convenors who have been able to run their groups - Congratulations. 

The Committee will be meeting soon to discuss next year’s program.  We hope in the New Year we can once again offer our Members the wonderful selection of courses U3A Benalla is known for.
​
Dorothy Webber

Photograph - Proud Richmond supporter and U3A President Dorothy Webber with committee member Margaret Jenkins at October's 'Meet and Mingle' (covid-style!) in the gardens.

​Here we are in October 2020, the year we could never have expected.

I need to look at the positives, having the time to pack up the house and get ready to move.   Also, the time to help clear out my sister’s unit.    Barbara is now living in Echuca. 

Like many of you, I’ve missed seeing my family.  l’m very grateful for my friends in Benalla, and it’s been great when we have been able to meet for a coffee or lunch.

As a Committee we are keeping in touch with the Council and you will hear any news when we do.

Stay positive!
​
Dorothy Webber, President

Well, they say no news is good news, but not in our case at U3A.  Council have no plans in the foreseeable future to reopen the building.

With the changes still happening daily, we can only continue as we have been for the last 3 months.

At a recent Zoom Committee Meeting we decided to get together for lunch in the gardens next to the Art Gallery on Wednesday 22 July at 12 noon. BYO lunch, tea/coffee, chair etc.  This will depend on numbers that can gather, and of course the WEATHER. 

Stay safe and sound and we will all survive.
​
Dorothy Webber,
President

I hope you are all safe and well, and not feeling too down by the quarantine.     At least now we can visit family and friends.    We still must practice social distancing.

I know a lot of you are missing the company of your U3A friends and are longing to be back together.

This newsletter contains news that some of the external groups are starting up, while some groups are using Zoom.  The Zoom groups are working well, and we may have more on the way.   Other contact with members is also happening, with some Convenors ringing and emailing their groups.

The Committee held its first Zoom Meeting recently. It was great to see everyone together, to catch up with Network and other news.

We have received a Community Grant from the Benalla Rural City to replace our old heavy Whiteboard with a light-weight magnetic whiteboard.

As I write, there is no news as to when the Council are going to reopen the building.  As you will understand, we cannot plan for restarting at this time because we don’t know what the rules will be in the future.

Dorothy Webber,
​President

What a trialling time we are all having. I must say I am up one day and down the next. Missing what was my normal life. I wonder if our old normal will ever return. 

I have been receiving a Newsletter from U3A Network Victoria each week, so we the Committee are keeping in touch with the Network’s recommendations.

A number of our Conveners are running their Courses by email, we have been having Zoom Meetings and some Courses have started using Zoom. Your Convener will contact you if this is one of your classes. Of course, this is not available to all. 

We may be able to run a future Meet n Mingle as a Zoom meeting.  We could listen to a guest speaker using the mute feature, so all we would hear is the speaker.

As we are all missing our families and friends, make use of Technology and be thankful we have it. If you need tech support, I may be able to help, no promises. 0421263071.

Stay Home and Stay Safe

Dorothy Webber
President

​Because of the situation with the Corona virus and the latest spatial requirements, the Committee has decided to shut down Benalla U3A.

We will review this decision at the end of Semester 1. This  decision includes all off-site Groups.

We hope that when we resume you are all fit and healthy. Stay safe.
​
Dorothy Webber
President
21 March 2020

It is with great pleasure that I make my report for the last year.

We have had many social events this year:   A Benalla Rural City Sponsored Morning Tea at which the Recorder Group entertained us, was held in October.  On the same day we followed on with a Be Connected sponsored BBQ lunch, a busy day as both events had to be held that week.  The November Meet n Mingle was once again entertained by the Singing for Fun Group and the display of the work of the Patchwork Group  Our first evening event was held in February.  A good time was enjoyed by all with tasty Pizzas and a cake to celebrate Benalla’s involvement with Be Connected.

​We continue with our meetings with Council and other users of the building.  Looking to the future we were asked to put forward our suggestions for the redesign of the interior of the building.  We await what that decision will be.  My thanks go to Margaret Jenkins who put a very professional design together.  With a view to utilising the space more efficiently, the Thursday mornings Singing for Fun and Community Singing now meet in the auditorium.

The success of U3A Benalla is largely due to the wonderful Conveners who continually put themselves forward to lead sessions, and my wonderful Committee who have worked so hard for you this year.

The growth of the Benalla retirement community sees our membership growing.  Currently we have 341 members - 246 Ladies and 95 Gentlemen.  This is an increase of 66 from what we had last year.  Considering that we had 60 new members last year and so far 68 this year that is incredible growth.  We have 48 courses on offer in Semester 1. The future of Benalla U3A is looking very positive as we continue to grow our membership and courses.

Once again I have kept close relationship with the Network by attending the Regional Meetings. 
A two-day meeting was held here in Benalla at BPACC in April and a one-day meeting was held In Seymour in September.  Having myself and members of our committee attending and networking is beneficial to us and all U3As across our region.  Geraldine McCorkell regularly attends the meetings at the Network in Melbourne and keeps us updated.  My thanks to Geraldine for this service.
 
Once again my thanks to the Committee who have helped me no end over the last year.

Dorothy Webb
​President

​We have started the new year with plenty of enthusiasm and continue with new memberships daily. Our numbers are very impressive.   Of course, this is due to our wonderful Convenors and the courses we have on offer.

My biggest thank you to all the volunteers at the RedB4 Book Shop for handing out our Membership packs and handling the Registration Forms.

Benalla U3A’s Annual General Meeting will be held at Meet & Mingle on Wednesday 18th March from 10am to 12 noon. A Nomination form has been sent out with the March Newsletter and is available here. Give a thought to coming on the Committee. It is important to have new people with new ideas to keep our U3A growing in the future.

It has come to my notice that many Members aren't aware that they can claim Travel and Accommodation when they travel 100k or more to a Medical Appointment. One member only found this out after 2 1/2 years of travelling to Melbourne. Seems it’s one of those things you only find out about by word of mouth.
​
A wonderful Social Dinner was held recently in conjunction with the Be Connected program. Thanks to tBe Connected for the Grant that enabled us to enjoy a get together and meal.

​
​Dorothy Webber

​​Welcome to 2020!  May we all have a great start to the U3A year.

Our Summer School classes were well attended and enjoyed, with Community Singing now timetabled throughout the year.

We have some classes with large numbers, hopefully this will work itself out.

The Good Things Foundation have once again supported our Be Connected program with a grant. This will fund a Social Evening and Meal to be held on Wednesday February 26th following the Be Connected class. All members are welcome.

​Did you miss Enrolment Day?  Don't despair!  Enrolment kits are available at the RedB4 Book Shop (next to Hide's Bakery) and on the website.  Completed Enrolment Application/ Renewal Forms can be left at RedB4 for collection or posted with payment to The Secretary, U3A Benalla, PO Box 674, Benalla 3671.

U3A Benalla and District’s Annual General Meeting will be held prior to Meet and Mingle on Wednesday March 18th.  There will be more information in the next newsletter. 
​
Dorothy Webber, President

​Benalla U3A’s Summer School Program is now in its third year!  In December 2017 Dorothy Webber piloted a summer program with a session dedicated to Trivial Pursuit, and a second session ‘Morning Memories’ where stories and photographs were shared. In January 2019 the first ‘Tech Savvy Be Connected’ summer school program was offered by Jenny Sawyer and Margaret Jenkins.  In 2020, three summer school activities are being held in the U3A meeting room over the January break: 
 
Tech Savvy Be Connected   Tuesday 7, 14 and 21 January – 10am-11am 
Whether or not you attended previous sessions last semester, you are welcome to bring your portable devices to our summer school to extend your computing know-ledge & skills. Contact:   Margaret Jenkins 5762 6944 Jenny Sawyer 0409 545 182

Patchwork     Thursday 9 & 23 January - 10am-4pm
The Patchwork Group is continuing its tradition of holding day long sessions in January, increasing the number this year from one to two.    Contact:  Dorothy Webber 5762 2116 or 0412 263 071

Community Singing  Friday 10, 17 & 24 January - 10.30 am-11.45 am
Due to a kind offer by Brian Greed, Singing for Fun are running three Community Singing mornings in January.   Singing for Fun members and other members of U3A are invited to attend.  Each session will have a break for morning tea and is expected to finish about 11.45 am.   Contact: Margaret Jenkins 5762 6944
 
Life Ball    Recommences Monday 13th January  9.45 to 11.30am
Life Ball is also returning in mid-January at the Benalla Indoor Recreation Centre in Ackerly Avenue.  Weekly sessions recommence Monday 13 January.
Contact:  Max Powell 0423 525 565

​Did you miss Enrolment Day?  Don't despair!  Enrolment kits are available at the RedB4 Book Shop (next to Hide's Bakery) and on the website.  Completed Enrolment Application/ Renewal Forms can be left at RedB4  for collection or posted with payment to The Secretary, U3A Benalla, PO Box 674, Benalla 3671

Dorothy Webber, President

​As we rush headlong to the end of the year, l look back at the successful year we have had at Benalla U3A.

The new courses that started in 2019 have generated interest, and I hope the new courses for 2020 will do the same.

The two BBQs we had this year were a great social event and at the Morning Tea in Seniors Week we entertained 75 members and guests with a performance by our Recorder Group.

At the last Meet and Mingle the Singing for Fun Group performed to 58 members. The display from the Patchwork Group showed how many talented members we have.

Enrolment days will be held on Monday January 13th and Wednesday January 15th - both will be at the Seniors Community Building. Advertisements will be in the Ensign.  

The latest version of the 2020 Semester 1 ‘Month Overview’ Timetable has been sent out with the December newsletter. Membership renewal forms, program details and timetables will be sent out early in the New Year and be available on the website and at RedB4 Books.

As we move towards Christmas and the holidays, enjoy your time. Come back in 2020 with all your enthusiasm and once again we will have a wonderful year.
​
Merry Christmas to you all!

Dorothy Webber,
​President

Our Seniors Week Morning Tea was a great success!  Many thanks to all the workers who put it together, the Recorder Group for their performance and the Collectors group for displaying a broad range of collectibles for the pleasure of our guests.
 
Once again, thank you to the BBQ team from the Lion’s Club for our lunch.

On the 25th of October, 26 of our Convenors met and shared their experiences. Such a positive group of great people, we at Benalla are so fortunate that they share their expertise with us. On a personal note, many thanks go to Pauline Bailey for her words after the meeting.

The Program Committee have been working on the timetable for Semester 1 2020.  It is now almost ready to go to Benalla Council.

Our last Meet & Mingle for 2019 will be held on Wednesday 20th November. Once again, the Singing for Fun Group will entertain us and the Patchwork Group will display their work.

Come along and join us.

Dorothy Webber,
​President

On 17th September Lorraine Knox and I attended a U3A Regional Meeting in Seymour. Benalla was congratulated on our growing membership and our diverse courses.  It’s always great to come together with other U3A’s and share ideas.

October’s Meet & Mingle on Wednesday 16th October will be replaced by a celebration of Seniors Week.  There will be a Morning Tea at 9:30 am sponsored by Age Friendly Benalla & Benalla Rural City Council.   This will be followed by a 'Get On Line' week BBQ Lunch at midday sponsored by The Good Things Foundation, with the Be Connected class meeting for their session after lunch.  Come to one or come to both!  RSVP Dorothy 0412263071 or email president@u3abenalla.com.

Meetings have been held with all users of the Seniors Community Centre to discuss how best to use the space.  More news to come.  Happily all users are now welcome to use the automatic doors when they are  open.

Convenors’ Workshop  Friday October 25th 1:30 pm. This is to thank our dedicated volunteers and run training on photocopier, overhead projector, TV, etc.
 
Housekeeping - The Urn   The tap of the urn must be facing the front.  If it is left slightly off-centre the tap the tap will leak.

Christmas Lunch 2019  A date for your diary!  Our Christmas luncheon will be held at the Goorambat Railway Hotel  on Wednesday November 27th.   Lunch & Bus $40 -  Lunch only $35.  Form will be included in November’s Newsletter.  For further information or to RSVP, contact Heather Rodgers 5762 4086.
​
Dorothy Webber
President

The Be Connected BBQ was a great social event.  Most of the 34 members who attended have continued with the Be Connected Program.  ​

Save the date! Convenors Workshop - Friday afternoon, October 25th at 1:30pm   The final word on Car Pooling - $ 7.00 return trip.   Please use common sense if it’s a short trip (eg to the Reef Hills).
​
Dorothy Webber, President

Our thanks go to Benalla Rural City Council. U3A received $2500 from the 2019 Community Grants Program. Our submission was to cover the cost of installing and the running for 12 months the NBN plus two cellular wifi tablet devices.   40 grants were awarded at a cost of $75,841. This is a wonderful initiative of our Council.

Heading in to Second Semester thanks go to all our dedicated Convenors.  As always you are doing a great job.

Activities such as Bushwalking, Winery activities etc. at times require Car pooling.   The payment to the driver is $5.00 or $7.50 return trip. If you require further information, ring me 0412 263 071.

As winter rolls on many members head north. I wish you safe travels. I will be away in August so can all calls be directed to Geraldine 0408 522 662. At Meet & Mingle last week the number of spam calls was discussed. NBN do not ring and threaten to disconnect your service. Stay aware and just hang up. Under no circumstances give control of your computer to anyone who calls.

Dorothy Webber,  President