CLASSES & EVENTS

If you wish to volunteer to help with our social events, please select this code and we will contact you to discuss further

Our  Office at the Old Courthouse is staffed by Volunteers in the morning from Monday to Friday.

Select the code if you are interested in Volunteering to help in our office and we will contact you to discuss further.

Regular Office Volunteers are granted early enrolment (early access) to the following year's classes.

Some tutors and leaders need assistance to connect to the in-house AV networks and equipment. If you would like to offer support in this area please select this code.

U3A Kingston is run by its Committee of Management all of which are Volunteers and meets monthly.

Select this code if you are interested in Volunteering for the Committee and you will be contacted to discuss further.

All of our Tutors and Class Leaders are Volunteers who share their knowledge and skills.

You do not need to be a trained Teacher, just have a good knowledge of your subject.

Please select this code if you wish to discuss further and you will be contacted by the Course Convenor

This course will be a brief history of the following - Ancient Canaan , The Etruscans, Cyprus, Bronze Age Collapse of the Mediterranean, The Hittites, The Phoenicians, Nuragic Civilisation – (Bronze Age Sardinia), The Luwians, the King of Lycia

This course will be a brief history of the following - The Philistines and Palestinians, Mycenae, Archaic Greece & Greeks, Byblos, Lebanon, Idrimi, more about the Phoenicians, the Peloponnesian War

Using mixed media, we will explore using various mediums to create loose and abstract landscapes each week. Experimenting using limited palettes, oil pastels, acrylic ink, collage and more, we will create a unique piece of art.

All experience levels are welcome, this is a beginner friendly class.

Supplies required:

• A set of acrylic paints, primary colours red, yellow, blue with white and black.
• A selection of acrylic brushes, including one small, medium and large brush. (Mont Marte brand has a wallet of acrylic brushes for under $20.)
• A pad of white A4 or A3 paper
• A water container
• Kitchen towel or cleaning rag
• A palette for paint mixing
• Acrylic paint is hard to get off clothes, please bring an apron or old shirt in case of splashes.
• Lee will supply all mixed media supplies including pastels, inks and collage.

$3 per person to cover extra art supplies

Art class- all mediums.  Self-help (No Tutor).

Art class- all mediums.  Self-help (No Tutor).

We have covered a few historical events in Australia’s colonial and post- colonial history, ranging from the First Settlers of 1788 to the Eureka Stockade and Bean’s Diaries of WWI. There are tens more significant and momentous episodes and decades of stories to unwrap.

The history class will continue in 2025 to delve into the intrigue, the controversy and the impact on the nation. Like all histories of the nations around the world, there are the tasty bits and the bitter-sweet bits, history must be viewed with a broad perspective.

The world is evolving at a frightening pace and the momentum is staggering, with history of cultures and races and languages impacting all of us. Let history inspire you rather than dampen your spirits. Let us appreciate history that was recorded for the way it was by whomever was courageous and willing enough to tell the story.

Note Changed Room and Time 

We read a various selection of books and then have a discussion the following month about what we have read.

We experience a wide selection of books, mostly fiction with some non-fiction, and we enjoy sharing diverse ideas and views in an open, friendly, thoughtful and accepting way. New participants are always very welcome to join us.

Meet 1st Monday of the month in Lewis House Room 3

Note change of meeting day 

Book discussion group

Intermediate Level Bridge

Come along and play a friendly game of 500.

Prerequisites: Ability to shuffle and deal cards

This will be run by Daril Atkins who is a sculptor with cardboard.

Bolivia is an enjoyable card game requiring some strategy and lots of luck. It is played as a partnership game against two or three players. The objective of the game is to make 15,000 points with your partner by creating melds and sequences of 7 cards.

Come on Saturday afternoon for a casual game of solo and a cuppa at the Cheltenham library in Stanley Avenue, Cheltenham, close to the station and shops.

Solo (Whist) is a trick taking card game with trumps and bidding. Every hand is different which makes it exciting, challenging and fun.

Experienced players, inexperienced players and beginners are welcome to join. However an understanding of card games is an advantage.

Council Offices, 34 Brindisi Street, Mentone. Use the entrance with the ramp.

Please wear your lanyard and be on time as you need to be let in.

Canasta and Bolivia. Rummikub. An understanding of these games would be helpful but not essential. We meet every Tuesday throughout the year except for Public Holidays.

Prerequisites: Bring your own lunch

In 'Still in the Pink' we enjoy singing and believe it makes us younger! We sing with piano - songs from the Musicals, traditional and popular  songs. We try to enjoy ourselves and make friends within the Choir. The approach is friendly and informal. Come along and enjoy the special bond that singing together creates.

We like to perform and hope to do more of this.

We will be singing face-to-face in Courthouse Room 1.

Crime, why people commit crime, and how it should be controlled, is a complex and important issue for all societies. Criminology is the study of crime, its causes, responses to crime, punishment and preventative strategies.

We explore various theories of crime causation, the measurement of crime and criminal behaviours. The workings of the main institutions of the criminal justice system – police, courts and corrections – as well as various alternative and diversionary schemes (from state, national and international perspectives) are discussed in detail.

We are an informal group that meet to discuss a wide range of issues that arise via the media, television, newspapers, radio or just a rumour, sometimes sparking a healthy debate with opposing views and interpretation.

THIS COURSE IS A HYBRID FORMAT RUNNING BOTH VIA ZOOM AND FACE TO FACE

All class members will be wait listed at first 

Current Affairs covering the day to day issues that impact daily lives at home and around the world.

Prerequisites: Zoom. Personal laptop /computer equipment per person; hybrid alternatives for opportunities for sharing classes between Zoom/in class.

Dancing the Years Away  - Extending the Repertoire is folk dancing for older folk!  The social dances of yesteryear – fun dancing in a variety of sets (not couples as for ballroom dancing).  Dances drawn from Jane Austen’s Britain, to the ‘Bush’ dances of Australia.

This class will build on the the skills learned in earlier classes.

Due to works in Alan McLean Hall and Railway construction this class will be at Paterson lakes Community Centre 

Dancing the Years Away - Learning the Basics is folk dancing for older folk!  The social dances of yesteryear – fun dancing in a variety of sets (not couples as for ballroom dancing).  Dances drawn from Jane Austen’s Britain, to the ‘Bush’ dances of Australia.

This class will teach the basics of 'sets' , figures and the language of this form of dance.

Due to works in Alan McLean Hall and Railway construction this class will be at Paterson Lakes Community Centre 

Now on Mondays 

This will be a short 6-week course to explore what we need to know to prepare for the GRAND EXIT.

In the course will be:

1. Death – what it means now, what it meant in the past, traditions, rituals, myths.

2. Your bucket list – When? Where? What? How? Who?

3. Design your own funeral – Modest? Lavish? Quiet? Bollywood?

4. Write your own obituary – tell your story as you would like it to be told.

5. Means of disposal – cremation, interment, sea or sky burial.

6. The Law: Voluntary Assisted Dying, Wills and bequests

This will be a discussion group rather than a set of lectures. I will prepare for each topic but all participants will be encouraged to bring their own ideas, beliefs, questions and knowledge to share. Please contact me at bakersally356@gmail.com if you need further information.

Dineout gives an opportunity to experience food from various cultures throughout the city of Kingston at the many restaurants throughout our neighbourhoods.

A social and friendly group meeting the third Wednesday of each month during U3A term dates.

We try new restaurants and cafes, sometimes venturing outside the City of Kingston, to sample a variety of cuisines.

During the months - October - May, we will be going to restaurants in the evening, while in the winter months - June to September we will be having lunches.

Fourth Wednesday evening of the month.

The exercise program aims to maintain and improve mobility, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness in older adults, with the capacity to be physically independent.

Prerequisites - Sufficiently able bodied to perform the exercises from sitting, standing and walking, while remaining suitable for the fit and less fit participants.

There is a charge of $4.00 per session to be paid directly to the tutor to cover her registration costs.

The first class on the 5th of Feb will be at Alan Mclean Hall

From the 12th Feb it is suggested -due to works in the hall as well as noise and lack of parking due to railway construction this group will move to Cheltenham Hall 1218 Nepean Hwy Cheltenham

Are you interested in finding information about your ancestors? We are a peer managed group and our objective is to assist and support members as they work through their genealogy and family histories.

Our sessions include online tutorials, presentations, problem solving and discussions. We have a small internal library of genealogy/Family History books, magazines and CD's. Come and join our like-minded group.

This group of about 12 will meet on the 3rd Monday of each month at 1.00pm Each month a different member will choose a film on general release for all to see in their own time before the next meeting. There we will have a chat some refreshments and discuss the film and make new friends.

This group of about 15 will meet off campus on the 3rd Thursday of each month at 1.00pm Each month a different member will choose a film on general release for all to see in their own time before the next meeting. There we will have a chat, some refreshments and discuss the film and make new friends.

We learn about different techniques and styles of drawing. We share our interests and help each other to experience different mediums sharing our skills and experiences. 

All welcome from beginners to advanced.

Due to high demand for Paul's Wednesday class Paul has started this second class on Thursdays .

We learn about different techniques and styles of drawing. We share our interests and help each other to experience different mediums sharing our skills and experiences.

All welcome from beginners to advanced.

A class for those who already have a reasonable grasp of French grammar and vocabulary but want to improve their listening and speaking skills. We aim to speak as much French as possible, explore French and Francophone events and culture during the class, and not worry too much about making mistakes!

Mostly on zoom, but face to face once a term (in a cafe/restaurant, or outside)

Interested people will need a good level of fitness and be able to walk 10kms, including some uphill. Each walk will involve exploring a different area of Melbourne, with some a bit further out.

Walks will start with tea/coffee at a cafe in the designated area. The walks will involve some culture, history and parklands and the general nuances of the area. After the walk, we will lunch at a cafe in the area we have explored. Transport will consist of train/tram for some walks and carpooling for others.

Walks will be held on the last Friday of each month except for school holidays. Some areas we have explored include Malvern, Brunswick, Williamstown, South Melbourne, Brighton, Mornington and Coburg. We aim to add 3-4 new walks to our list each year.

Gardening all types and conversations. Swapping of plants and occasional outings throughout the year.

NOTE- Gardening is on Tuesdays in 2025

We should be living in a time of unprecedented good health. Instead, we have switched from the infections of the 19th century to our current, mostly non-infectious, chronic, disabling diseases. In addition, we are overshooting the boundaries that protect our precious planet. Let's investigate what constitutes personal and planetary good health, re-engage with nature, and regenerate what we have lost.

Expect me to challenge current dogma and expose myths. No prior knowledge is required, but do bring an open, enquiring mind and a sense of humour.

I deliver the same talk live on Zoom every Tuesday and the following Friday as per the separate Timetable. Feel free to switch between the two days. Choose which modules to attend, or attend them all. Once registered, I will keep you on the mailing list unless you request removal. No need to apologise for non-attendance. Come and go as you wish.

We should be living in a time of unprecedented good health. Instead, we have switched from the infections of the 19th century to our current, mostly non-infectious, chronic, disabling diseases. In addition, we are overshooting the boundaries that protect our precious planet. Let's investigate what constitutes personal and planetary good health, re-engage with nature, and regenerate what we have lost. Expect me to challenge current dogma and expose myths. No prior knowledge is required, but do bring an open, enquiring mind and a sense of humour.

I deliver the same talk live on Zoom every Tuesday and the following Friday as per the separate Timetable. Feel free to switch between the two days. Choose which modules to attend, or attend them all. Once registered, I will keep you on the mailing list unless you request removal. No need to apologise for non-attendance. Come and go as you wish.

This will be a short course to discover how to do Cryptic Crosswords.

In the course will be

1. Going in hard – back to front

2. What are the games?

3. - anagrams

4. – homonyms

5. – run-ons

6. – Spoonerisms

7. – puns

8. Write your own clues.

Be warned, these puzzles can get addictive, but they are good for your brain and can also become a social activity. Please contact me at bakersally356@gmail.com if you need further information.

Continuing to learn Italian

We have renamed the Italian courses this year with simple numbers. If you are previous member of these courses you can identify your session by the start time. 

These courses are not suitable for beginners. If you would like to join a class or change class contact Felicity (felicitywigg@gmail.com) and she will decide what class is suitable for you. 

Intermediate level Italian

We have renamed the Italian courses this year with simple numbers. If you are previous member of these courses, you can identify your session by the start time. 

These courses are not suitable for beginners. If you would like to join a class or change class contact Felicity (felicitywigg@gmail.com) and she will decide what class is suitable for you. 

Speaking Italian 

We have renamed the Italian courses this year with simple numbers. If you are previous member of these courses you can identify your session by the start time. 

These courses are not suitable for beginners. If you would like to join a class or change class contact Felicity (felicitywigg@gmail.com) and she will decide what class is suitable for you. 

Gain confidence performing for others and singing to backing tracks.

Prerequisite -some ability to sing in tune.

We are lucky to have two clubs offering learn to bowl courses. This course is run at Mordialloc Bowling club.

An introductory Course. Learn lawn bowls techniques from Grant Clarke an expert coach at the beautiful Mordialloc Bowls Club. Park off Connell Street.

This group runs once a fortnight and will run for the first two terms when work on the greens will begin.

Prerequisites: Flat shoes Wear your U3A Lanyard please.

(confirm start date)

Discover the hidden secrets of our fabulous city, visit places you've always meant to go to.

Normally be at the Mordialloc station around 9.00 am on the 1st Wednesday of the month.  Timing does vary but you'll be advised of the details each month by email and/or WhatsApp.  If you cannot attend a class you MUST advise me as there is a large waiting list.

Participants are to bring their Myki card as we travel by train to the city. Make sure you have your Mobile phone, Name Tag/Lanyard and a concession card or Seniors card (if you have one).  We always have lunch at a cafe or restaurant. If you prefer not to attend, that's fine.

All applicants will be waitlisted. The Tutor will contact those that are accepted into the course.

Discover the hidden secrets of our city and suburbs, visit places you’ve always meant to go.

Held 1st Thursday of the month. Start and finish times to be confirmed, depending on the visit.

All participants will be wait listed. The Tutor will contact those that are accepted into the class.

Low impact line dancing. An hour of fun and exercise. There is a charge of $3 per session to be paid directly to the tutor. Internet access and watching videos are an advantage for learning. 

Some basic line dancing or other dance experience required. Maximum class of 30. Initially all applicants will be waitlisted and the convenor will contact all new entrants. Preference will be given to new entrants and previous participants who attend regularly.

Closed toe shoes and appropriate clothing are a condition for safe participation. If members have an underlying health condition that may affect their dancing, please feel free to discuss this privately with the convenor. She may be able to make modifications, if possible.

Due to works in Alan McLean Hall and Railway construction this class is moving to Cheltenham Hall 1218 Nepean Hwy Cheltenham 

You will learn to dance a variety of line dances in an easy relaxed atmosphere. 

 Come along and have fun. There is a charge of $2 paid directly to the Tutor.

On the 11th and 18th of Feb only this class will be held at Carrum Activity Centre

 38 Valletta St Carrum.

For those who wish to explore some more challenging dances. This class to run after my beginners class to cater for the more experienced. 

Prerequisite -A basic understanding of line dancing steps. A reasonable level of mobility. 

$1 payment to Tutor 

On the 11th and 18th of Feb only this class will be held at Carrum Activity Centre

 38 Valletta St Carrum.

A strategy tile game of both skill and luck played in a friendly environment. Beginners and more experienced players are more than welcome. We do not score.

All members will need to obtain a copy of 'The Mah-Jong Player's Companion' by Patricia A. Thompson and Betty Maloney.

Marquetry is the art of making pictures out of wood veneers. Learn to create articles of beauty.

Class members need to have a cutting board and a set of cutting blades (available from a $2 shop)

Presented by Ana Greeno who has taken many groups walking through our city's history. Ana enjoys sharing her knowledge and encourages attendees to contribute with their stories.

Powerpoint presentation (past and present) on different suburbs of Melbourne.

A look at paintings by Australian women from the 1890s to 1940s.

This is not a teaching class but assistance is given.

Using the following mediums: water colour drawing oils and acrylics.

 The venue is at Dingley Neighbourhood House, approx 10 mins easy drive from our main venue at Mordialloc.

Using the following mediums: water colour drawing oils and acrylics. This is not a teaching class but assistance is given. The venue is at Dingley Neighbourhood House, approx 10 mins easy drive from our main venue at Mordialloc.

Learn to make the most of your camera. One week we go on location to take photos, this ranges from city visits to rural places. The next week we meet at the Courthouse to share our photos and discuss techniques and ways of improvement.

The Courthouse meetings are on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. When in house, classes will be held every second week. The alternate weeks are held for excursions and practice. You will be notified about venues.

The course will require the use of more complex digital cameras and knowledge on how to use them. It will provide regular outings followed by image evaluation back at the Courthouse the following week. The classroom sessions will contain content of a practical and advanced nature, including some lightroom and photoshop support. It is suitable for more advanced photographers and for those wishing to enter competitions. It is not suitable for beginners.

Prerequisite- 1 year in the Fundamental Course or evidence of an advanced level of camera a knowledge.

Pickleball is a paddleball sport that combines elements of tennis badminton and table tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball similar to a Wiffle Ball over a net. Pickleball is a fun game to play either casually or in a tournament setting and while it is not as intense as tennis can be just as competitive and enjoyable.

There is a charge of $35 for term 1 for this class, to be paid on enrolment. Please use your 'Member Number' as the 'reference' on your payment. 

Tuition is available for beginners. All equipment supplied. Rubber soled shoes are essential.

Pickleball is a paddle ball sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and table tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of composite material to hit a perforated polymer ball over a net. Pickleball is a fun game to play either casually or in a tournament setting and while it is not as intense as tennis, can be just as competitive and enjoyable.

Tuition is available for beginners. All equipment supplied. Rubber souled shoes are essential.

There is a charge of $35 for term 2 for this class, to be paid on enrolment.

A game of skill and luck for 2, 3 or 4 players.  Easy to learn and play. We swap groups each week and don’t keep score. It’s a lot of fun.

All welcome- beginners and experts!

Bring a bag of 10cent coins and come and have a laugh and a cuppa with us at the Cheltenham library.

Bring a bag of 10cent coins and come and have a laugh and a cuppa with us at the Cheltenham library.

Suits all standards of player. Matches will be doubles on three tables. Participants need rubber-soled shoes.

Table tennis will continue to run through the holidays except for the period between Christmas and new year .

Allan Mclean Hall will be closed for 4 or five days for works at a date to be notified in the summer holidays.

Allan Mclean Hall will be closed 10-28 Feb for work on floors and painting.

There will be no table tennis during these periods.

Suits all standards of player. Matches will be doubles on three or four tables. Participants need rubber-soled shoes.

Table tennis will continue to run through the holidays except for the period between Christmas and new year .

Allan Mclean Hall will be closed for 4 or five days for works at a date to be notified in the summer holidays.

Allan Mclean Hall will be closed 10-28 Feb for work on floors and painting.

There will be no table tennis during these periods.

Suits all standards of player. Matches will be doubles on three tables. Participants need rubber-soled shoes.

Table tennis will continue to run through the holidays except for the period between Christmas and new year .

Allan Mclean Hall will be closed for 4 or five days for works at a date to be notified in the summer holidays.

Allan Mclean Hall will be closed 10-28 Feb for work on floors and painting.

There will be no table tennis during these periods.

TAI CHI & QIGONG -- Beginners and Continuing
10.30 -11.30 Beginners program of Warm-ups, Qigong, and Sun style Tai Chi 
11.30 -12.00 Participants from 2024 will continue with Tai Chi for Arthritis 2 a further 21 moves. 
There is a charge of $7 per session to be paid directly to the tutor.
Additional notes:  Suitable footwear and clothing are a condition of participation.

Note New Venue: Alan Nieman Hall ,14  Baxter Avenue Chelsea 

This course is useful for people interested in :

•    making their home more comfortable in winter and summer
•    reducing their energy bills and reducing their vehicle fuel bills
•    reducing the impact of climate change and extreme weather events
•    using more effective and healthy household appliances and vehicles
•    Knowing what is changing in the electricity grid and gas supply
•    Clarifying Victorian household rebates for electrification
•    Being aware of Victorian household efficiency standards and assessments

Overall – why the energy transition is happening, how it will affect us and how to benefit from it.

The making of the modern middle east.

Turkish social group for Cards and Board games. This group is a Turkish Seniors Social Group. New members are welcome! A variety of cards and boardgames are played. Gin Rummy is very popular.

 Bring those UFO'S (unfinished objects)-your knitting your crochet that cross-stitch you started years ago etc. and come and join a group of like minded ladies.

This group is for those wishing to play ensemble music in parts using TAB notation.

Prerequisites - You need to be able to read TABs and be prepared to practise your parts. A basic ability is enough to enable you to join the group.

Course for intermediate ukulele players including some technical skills development and happy strumming and singing.

Prerequistes - You will need to know around 12 basic chords and have a steady strumming technique. The two Ukulele Club books are required and available at most music shops.

Walk ( about 10 km) and morning tea $7 

For those who are attempting to write a Novel or Memoir and for those wishing to start. A small friendly group with the aim to assist interested participants complete their projects. There will be some lectures at the start to give background around Plot Setting and Characters and how to turn your story into a novel or memoir.

Given the nature of conversations the course must be limited to a maximum of twelve.

Prerequisites: None only a desire to write a novel or memoir.

The course is designed for fun and for you to be engaged as a writer beginner or not.

Our friendly group members share work on a wide range of topics and help each other to build the confidence to explore our creative side. Short stories, memoirs, poetry, how to set plots, improve characters, the list is endless. A plus is that we get to think more about our lives and others through our writings.

Gentle yoga, with an emphasis on enhancing flexibility and maintaining fitness. Many exercises will combine stretching with the breath. Most exercises will be done standing, with about a third of the class being floor exercises. While I am offering the year, I may take some time off for things like travel plans that I have not made yet - you will be warned if I do go away.

Please bring a mat. Wearing a U3A lanyard is compulsory to get into this council building. And it is important that you are on time to be let in. 34 Brindisi St Mentone. Use entrance with ramp.