Introduction

U3A Benalla University of the Third Age, or U3A, provides opportunities for learning and social interaction to help people over 50 no longer in full time employment to keep physically & mentally alert. ​
48 courses and activities are being presented in Benalla in 2026.
There are no prerequisites or exams!
'U3A Benalla - 30 Years On and Still Growing' - Margaret Jenkins' presentation, April 30, 2026 

Newsletter

Our newsletter is published and our website updated at end of month. ​Deadline - 26th of the month to
[email protected]  
The U3A Benalla email address is now [email protected]. 

Inside

Program News - Update
'Mutual Wills, Powers of Attorney & Funerals' Preparing for the Future with John Barry
'NAIDOC WEEK BENALLA, a conversation' - Art Appreciation
Online Family Research for Life Long Learners - Deb Saunders
Member Wizard - 'Things are happening in our digital space'

President's Message

We are still growing in numbers which is very exciting.  We now have 473 registered members (last count). 

As we grow in numbers, we require more space.  I had a productive meeting with Greg Robertson from Council on 1st July to discuss the Master Plan for the Benalla Seniors and Community Centre building and our Licence.   The building is owned by the Council and, as I am new in my position, I required clarification on several matters. The information I needed was provided. The building will be built upwards with lifts that will make it easier to reach the floor above. There is no discussion that the building be moved outwards in any direction.  Greg has finished the Master Plan, it is to be approved or amended by Peter Keane CEO, then goes to Councillors to amend and approve, then we will receive a copy. I came away from the meeting reassured that U3A are not on the ‘back burner’.  My next important meeting will be with Peter Keane CEO on 11 August. Discussion will be relevant to the future of the building.

Several new members joined U3A Benalla recently so that they could attend John Barry's ‘Planning for the Future’ course.  A couple of them have now also joined in other activities.  John's first class involved approximately 25 members.  Many questions were asked. 

Our other new class is ‘Cooking Together’ which, as you may know, involves students from FCJ and our members.  There are 10 U3A members, and they pair up with 10 students. The first session went well. The group is also meeting on alternate weeks at U3A.  As part of their orientation session at U3A, scones were made on our new stove. As stated last month we have been fortunate to receive a $1000 grant towards equipment for the kitchen ...
                             ...Continue reading ​

Program News Bites

Recorder Group - "Over the last few sessions we have been practising some music sent to us by the Wangaratta recorder group.
We are planning a get-together very soon, which will be terrific and a lot of fun. They have given us a lovely selection of music and we have sent them some of our favourites.​  Bring on the music!"                                    Janet Douglas

Wine Appreciation - "We have returned from our travels to recommence convenor duties.  Our August outing is to Warrabilla Wines, 6152 Murray Valley Highway, Rutherglen. A number of members loudly sing its praises.  Our lunch will be at Precinct bar and restaurant 60-62 Faithful St Wangaratta. 
             Garry and Caroline Smith

 Calendar 

See also - What's On or Monthly Calendar