After a very hot February, the weather has now settled into Autumn temperatures, with glorious sunshine plus a few days of much needed rain.

U3A Aldinga has made a great start with many interesting courses and activities, led by keen leaders who bring a broad range of skills and experiences. Each leader invests much time and energy into organising their course, and we thank them very much for their dedication and hard work.

As course leaders are volunteers who put significant effort into planning and running classes, advising them of an absence is a matter of courtesy. If you wish to discontinue with attending the class, it is also important to let the leader know as it allows other members to take up vacant places.

I have received a flyer about participating in the Cog Coach brain study. It is aimed at people who feel their memory has worsened, and have not been diagnosed with dementia. It is a 45-60 minute online focus group where people will be given information on an online lifestyle intervention aimed at preventing cognitive decline in older adults at risk of dementia. For more information there is a web page at https://redcap.link/cogcoachsurvey plus an email address where you can contact them cogcoachbrain-study@unimelb.edu.au.

After successfully publishing their book ‘Voices of the Fleurieu’ the Creative Writing Group successfully launched it at Aldinga Library on Friday, 20th March. Congratulations to the team, certainly a great achievement for all members.

During next term on Monday, 11th May, there will be a two hour Chair Based Yoga Plus session run by Kamini, who has extensive experience in many aspects of fitness, therapy and relaxation training. The two hour course includes a combination of the different therapies, which looks very exciting. Please read the full description of her session in the program.

We give a very warm welcome to our new members, and look forward to meeting you. We are very happy that you have joined our community which involves much learning, creative and leisure opportunities. Plus plenty of opportunities for socialising.

I wish you all a very successful and happy second term.

Nola van Dam

March 2026