A place to connect

U3A Morning Tea at T-Harmony in Roma. Bayden Waldron, Jenny Stinson, Lynn Bowden, Edna Tedford, Judy Walsh, Christine Webster and Robyn Waldron.

The University of the Third Age (U3A) has been operating in Roma since 2011 providing a safe and social space for the older community.

“U3A is about people getting together,” said Activities Coordinator, Evan Dunster.

Results from a survey the group conducted last year, showed people in the older community were lonely and were looking for a place to connect with others.

“That is the importance of what we offer. We offer that social connection,” added President, Linda Scarce.

Due to the unfortunate closure earlier this year of the Senior Citizens group that had been operating in Roma since 1975, U3A has come into occupation of their old hall.

Linda said the new space provided by the hall has opened U3A to new and exciting opportunities for their members.

“Having this hall means we can put more activities on and try new activities too.”

Strictly speaking, the group is not exclusive to the older community and does welcome anyone eighteen years or older, however, this is quite rare.

U3A is about fostering integration between all different groups within the community and extends event invites to other community organisations like BlueCare and Anglicare.

“Their clients can fit into what we do, and many people can benefit from our activities as we offer them on both the gentle side and more vigorous side,” said Linda.

The PCYC also supports U3A by lending equipment for events such as their upcoming Senior Games in light of the recent 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

The Senior Games will be held on Wednesday, August 24, at the old Senior Citizen Hall for $5 and will feature games like carpet bowls, mini golf, and darts, as well as an included morning tea and soup selection for lunch.

If you are interested in becoming a member, please contact Linda Scarce on 0427 934 281.