Warwick’s branch of the University of the Third Age (U3A) has negotiated a 10-year lease to take on additional rooms at its premises on the corner of Tooth Street and the Cunningham Highway.
U3A is a world-wide not-for-profit group which aims to help mature people stay active and motivated by structuring social groups and educational classes.
President Louize Fulton said U3A Warwick would start the first term on 22 January with 23 courses, including some, such as science and book club, which have been running for many years. Nowadays U3A Warwick offers a wide range of courses including birdwatching, card games, Tai Chi, languages, music and Scottish country dancing.
“U3A Warwick first obtained use of a small room at 1 Tooth Street in 2005 and by 2012 we were leasing a block of three rooms. Last year we took the opportunity to lease extra space when the neighbouring tenant, Endeavour Foundation, moved out.
“The new space is about the same size as our existing rooms. There is a kitchen and we are also able to share outdoor space with other tenants. We plan to apply for grants this year to buy furniture and equipment and to refurbish,” she said.
Ms Fulton said the 10-year lease with the Southern Downs Regional Council was negotiated with favourable terms.
“We currently have approximately 200 members but obviously now there is space to structure new classes and allow existing courses to relocate from other venues.”
The Warwick group is holding sign-on days for new and existing members on the 18th and 19 of January at 1 Tooth Street from 10am to 2pm.
U3A Warwick has a website with comprehensive information including a downloadable membership form u3awarwick.org.au/
