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.
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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