Learn to explore the meaning and message from artworks. Your perceptions and point of view are based on your knowledge and experience. These are shared within a friendly group. Skills of reflection, critical thinking and questioning. Sharing of ideas is a celebration.

A friendly environment for mutual learning is provided for experienced painters. Guidance is provided for the less experienced. Provides a convivial environment where - the advanced artist can paint in companionable company; the intermediate artist can further improve on their skills; the beginner can learn to paint with oil paints.

Craft Jewellery:

This class is for people with some experience in making jewellery.

This class is for competent and ADVANCED thread-work beaders.

We use traditional and contemporary methods to produce jewellery as well as non-wearable pieces.

The class is a drawing class with the emphasis on Tonal drawing. Tonal drawing attempts to recognize and draw the 'lightest lights and the darkest darks'. This then creates the illusion of 3 dimensional shape and form on a flat piece of paper.

This course is for beginners through to advanced photographers. The basics of how to take good, interesting, well composed photos is covered and practiced in class. The class goes to different places around Melbourne every 2 - 3 weeks to take photos or visit photo exhibitions, and then shows them to the rest of the class at the next meeting. The class goes out on longer photo trips for 2-4 days once or twice during the year. This will all be explained.

Rediscover the pleasure of knitting and crochet in a relaxed, social setting. Our group is perfect for anyone wanting to learn a new skill, refresh one from years ago, or simply enjoy their craft in good company. We support each other, share ideas, and work on our own projects at our own pace. It’s not just about making; it’s about connecting.

Tech Café is a friendly, practical weekly session designed to help you build confidence using computers, smartphones, and the Internet. Each session stands on its own, so you can attend at any time, although enrolment is encouraged so we can plan topics and activities effectively.

In Tech Café you will:

• Learn how to recognise scams, phishing messages, and online risks
• Develop practical habits that improve online safety and privacy
• Discover simple, not-so-obvious tips that make everyday device use easier
• Explore new technology trends explained in clear, non-technical language
• Bring your own device and practise hands-on during the session
• Ask questions and learn alongside others facing similar challenges

Our focus is always on helping you feel comfortable, capable, and in control of today’s digital world, so that technology becomes a useful tool rather than a source of frustration.

More information: Tech Cafe web page.

A discussion group on topical national and international affairs. The subject matter is introduced by the tutor but topics can also be nominated by class members.

Monthly talks from our own members, OR A VISITOR. Various members show their holiday snaps. Actually, it's more interesting than that! No need to enrol - just turn up.

A fun way to stretch our minds - with friends - and maybe learn a little

BYO lunch and eat in company. Tea and Coffee available from the kitchen. Usually attended by members after the 11-12:30 pm classes. Great way to chat and catch up.

This class is for people who like to sing to pre-recorded musical accompaniment in front of a live audience (your class members). With the karaoke equipment provided in class, it allows the key of any pre-recorded music to be changed to match the range of the singer, giving the singer the ability to sing virtually any song, in terms of the tonal range. We cater for the more serious singers, as well as those who just want to have a bit of fun. For the more experienced singers, you are encouraged to bring your own media (DVD, VCD, MP4 files (YouTube downloads)) as you would already be familiar with the style of the musical accompaniment. For the novices, we do have a reasonable collection of “golden oldies”, for you to choose, in English and Chinese (Mandarin, Cantonese and Hokkien). Occasionally we have the opportunity to perform publicly, such as at Aged Care homes, local council festivals, and the annual Seniors Festival at Deakin Edge. Participation is on a purely voluntary basis.

A movie will be screened once a month, and is chosen because of a particular actor, director, setting or story-line. They are advertised in the newsletter for each term and in the weekly newsletter.

This is a documentary series exploring masterpiece paintings and their artists. It is conducted with the help of DVD’s and PowerPoint presentations..

Gentle exercise for Seniors to keep fit, refresh the soul and spirit. Comprises stretching, walking and balance exercises. Attendees are encouraged to bring a resistance band for this class

Tai Chi harmonizes the mind, body, and spirit, focusing on stillness in movement. Through slow, deliberate exercises and controlled breathing, it promotes physical health by improving balance, posture, and energy flow. Mentally, Tai Chi strengthens willpower, concentration, and discipline, helping practitioners stay present and focused. Spiritually, it encourages inner peace through meditation and alignment with the universe. While achieving stillness in movement is challenging, Tai Chi is a practice of progress rather than perfection. Each class offers a journey toward better health, mental clarity, and spiritual harmony, making it a rewarding practice for all.

The list of walks is available on U3A Box Hill's Walking Group webpage. For convenience you could bookmark the page. Most of the walks are on walking tracks within about 5-7km of Box Hill and the surrounding area – often by creeks or the Yarra. Walkers are given a copy of the term's walks or may find them on the U3A web site. (They include a Melway reference) Walkers normally drive to the designated meeting area, usually not more than about 20 mins. The walks are for one and a half hours, about 5-7 kms. Post walk lunch: Some walkers bring a folding chair and a packed lunch and enjoy the pleasant social interaction after the walk. Others may prefer to stop at a cafe nearby for coffee or lunch. Walkers who live close to another walker, may arrange private ride sharing. A list of the walks for the term is available from the office and is posted on the Strabane Hall notice board and on the Website.

This is a fun and effective way to stay fit. Using Nordic walking poles, the whole body will be given a gentle calorie burning workout. As active as jogging, as gentle as walking. Contact the Tutor before joining the class. The highlight is the midpoint coffee stop.

Boot Scooting root'n toot'n line dancing fun! Smooth soled shoes (or boots) will help

Strength and Balance Class for mature adults. Improves mobility and strength while increasing confidence on hand eye co-ordination and balance. Reminder - the sessions aren't completely seated. Participants would need a reasonable level of mobility. Members undertake exercise/fitness courses at their own risk and should always have the approval of their GP before enrolling Course details: 5-10 minute warm up. Followed by a leg work out including TheraBand, Pilates balls and dumbbells. Both seated and standing exercises. I normally include a 2-minute break every 15 min or so. Getting participants to pair up we'll use balls to work on balance, eye and hand coordination and also cardio work. Mainly an icebreaker to have a bit of fun. Followed by a range of 6-7 TheraBand exercises. 2 by seated 5 x standing. Mainly working on upper body strength. Short 2-minute break followed by a range of dumbbell exercises including back work, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Also working on balance and hamstring strength. The last 10 minutes includes a range of 3 seated abdominal exercises x 2 sets. To finish off a 5 minute or so cool down including stretching and loosening muscles. The session concludes at 12.30.

Strength and Balance Class for mature adults. Improves mobility and strength while increasing confidence on hand eye co-ordination and balance. Reminder - the sessions aren't completely seated. Participants would need a reasonable level of mobility. Members undertake exercise/fitness courses at their own risk and should always have the approval of their GP before enrolling Course details: 5-10 minute warm up. Followed by a leg work out including TheraBand, Pilates balls and dumbbells. Both seated and standing exercises. I normally include a 2-minute break every 15 min or so. Getting participants to pair up we'll use balls to work on balance, eye and hand coordination and also cardio work. Mainly an icebreaker to have a bit of fun. Followed by a range of 6-7 TheraBand exercises. 2 by seated 5 x standing. Mainly working on upper body strength. Short 2-minute break followed by a range of dumbbell exercises including back work, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Also working on balance and hamstring strength. The last 10 minutes includes a range of 3 seated abdominal exercises x 2 sets. To finish off a 5 minute or so cool down including stretching and loosening muscles. The session concludes at 12.30.

Strength and Balance Class for mature adults. Improves mobility and strength while increasing confidence on hand eye co-ordination and balance. Reminder - the sessions aren't completely seated. Participants would need a reasonable level of mobility. Members undertake exercise/fitness courses at their own risk and should always have the approval of their GP before enrolling Course details: 5-10 minute warm up. Followed by a leg work out including TheraBand, Pilates balls and dumbbells. Both seated and standing exercises. I normally include a 2-minute break every 15 min or so. Getting participants to pair up we'll use balls to work on balance, eye and hand coordination and also cardio work. Mainly an icebreaker to have a bit of fun. Followed by a range of 6-7 TheraBand exercises. 2 by seated 5 x standing. Mainly working on upper body strength. Short 2-minute break followed by a range of dumbbell exercises including back work, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Also working on balance and hamstring strength. The last 10 minutes includes a range of 3 seated abdominal exercises x 2 sets. To finish off a 5 minute or so cool down including stretching and loosening muscles. The session concludes at 12.30. *Members to bring their own dumbbells (1-3 kgs).**

Strength and Balance Class for mature adults. Improves mobility and strength while increasing confidence on hand eye co-ordination and balance. Reminder - the sessions aren't completely seated. Participants would need a reasonable level of mobility. Members undertake exercise/fitness courses at their own risk and should always have the approval of their GP before enrolling Course details: 5-10 minute warm up. Followed by a leg work out including TheraBand, Pilates balls and dumbbells. Both seated and standing exercises. I normally include a 2-minute break every 15 min or so. Getting participants to pair up we'll use balls to work on balance, eye and hand coordination and also cardio work. Mainly an icebreaker to have a bit of fun. Followed by a range of 6-7 TheraBand exercises. 2 by seated 5 x standing. Mainly working on upper body strength. Short 2-minute break followed by a range of dumbbell exercises including back work, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Also working on balance and hamstring strength. The last 10 minutes includes a range of 3 seated abdominal exercises x 2 sets. To finish off a 5 minute or so cool down including stretching and loosening muscles. The session concludes at 12.30. *Members to bring their own dumbbells (1-3 kgs).**

Strength and Balance Class for mature adults. Improves mobility and strength while increasing confidence on hand eye co-ordination and balance. Reminder - the sessions aren't completely seated. Participants would need a reasonable level of mobility. Members undertake exercise/fitness courses at their own risk and should always have the approval of their GP before enrolling Course details: 5-10 minute warm up. Followed by a leg work out including TheraBand, Pilates balls and dumbbells. Both seated and standing exercises. I normally include a 2-minute break every 15 min or so. Getting participants to pair up we'll use balls to work on balance, eye and hand coordination and also cardio work. Mainly an icebreaker to have a bit of fun. Followed by a range of 6-7 TheraBand exercises. 2 by seated 5 x standing. Mainly working on upper body strength. Short 2-minute break followed by a range of dumbbell exercises including back work, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Also working on balance and hamstring strength. The last 10 minutes includes a range of 3 seated abdominal exercises x 2 sets. To finish off a 5 minute or so cool down including stretching and loosening muscles. The session concludes at 12.30. *Members to bring their own dumbbells (1-3 kgs).**

Strength and Balance Class for mature adults. Improves mobility and strength while increasing confidence on hand eye co-ordination and balance. Reminder - the sessions aren't completely seated. Participants would need a reasonable level of mobility. Members undertake exercise/fitness courses at their own risk and should always have the approval of their GP before enrolling Course details: 5-10 minute warm up. Followed by a leg work out including TheraBand, Pilates balls and dumbbells. Both seated and standing exercises. I normally include a 2-minute break every 15 min or so. Getting participants to pair up we'll use balls to work on balance, eye and hand coordination and also cardio work. Mainly an icebreaker to have a bit of fun. Followed by a range of 6-7 TheraBand exercises. 2 by seated 5 x standing. Mainly working on upper body strength. Short 2-minute break followed by a range of dumbbell exercises including back work, biceps, triceps and shoulders. Also working on balance and hamstring strength. The last 10 minutes includes a range of 3 seated abdominal exercises x 2 sets. To finish off a 5 minute or so cool down including stretching and loosening muscles. The session concludes at 12.30. *Members to bring their own dumbbells (1-3 kgs).**

Laughter Yoga can reduce anxiety and depression and is particularly helpful to improve our sleep. Whether the laughter is real or fake, just laughing will make our brain release happy hormones, let us relax our emotions, reduce stress and promote good health.

This class is for beginners with none to a few years of tai chi experience. The aim is to learn tai chi to achieve a better health and way of life. It covers the fundamentals of tai chi quan, the principles and the basic theory of tai chi. One will learn self awareness, body balance, bio-mechanics etc while executing the various tai chi movements. There will be warm up exercises like 8 Brocade Qigong, body movement, footwork before learning the 8-methods-5-footwork, then the main 8,16 and 24 steps of tai chi.

本课程面向零至数年太极拳基础的初学者，旨在通过太极习练提升健康水平、改善生活方式。教学内容涵盖太极拳基本功、核心理念与基础理论。学员将在习练各式太极动作过程中，领悟自我觉察、身体平衡、生物力学等要诀。课程从八段锦气功热身、肢体活动及步法训练开始，继而学习八法五步基本功，最终掌握太极八式、十六式及二十四式核心套路。

We work through a puzzle each week as a group, helping each other understand the rules and indicators to solve the mysteries of a cryptic crossword. Enjoy the mental exercise!

Western Mah Jong for players with some experience. Tiles racks and counters are provided. Beginners cannot be catered for at this stage.

A sociable group plays this classic board game.

Easy-to-learn card games played in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. New members are welcome. Solo and 500 are the ONLY card games played in his class. Members choose which one they wish to play each week - plus - They can play 500 one week and Solo the next week if desired.

Eastern/ Chinese mahjong is played with about 144 tiles by 4 players. It is similar to the western card game of Rummy but played with tiles. Is a game of skill, adaptive strategy, observation and most important of all, LUCK. There are various rules for the game but players will set them before commencement. Unfortunately this is not a beginners class and players must have some experience.

Learn strategies for completing these challenging number puzzles in a supportive , convivial atmosphere.

For any course enquiries, members can contact the office for Bruce Bourke’s mobile number.

This series of talks is delivered via Zoom, and each class is presented live, twice a week by Dr John Beaney, a retired medical practitioner with 50 years' experience. The Friday class repeats the contents of the Tuesday class. If you wish you can attend either class, or even both.
In these classes I cover a wide range of issues concerned with how some food damages our personal health and
how industrial agriculture is damaging the planet, turning the land into desert and contributing to climate change.

I welcome questions. Please contact me on ozebeanz@gmail.com or 0438 752 146.

This series of talks, is delivered via Zoom and each class is presented live, twice a week by Dr John
Beaney, a retired medical practitioner with 50 years' experience. The Friday class repeats the contents of the
Tuesday class. If you wish you can attend either class, or even both.
In these classes I cover a wide range of issues concerned with how some food damages our personal health and
how industrial agriculture is damaging the planet, turning the land into desert and contributing to climate change.
I welcome questions.
Please contact me on ozebeanz@gmail.com or 0438 752 146.

In the Bible, Moses instructed the people to “choose life” (Deuteronomy 30:19). In 2026 we will investigate how this principle has shaped the Jewish people for more than three millennia, through the lens of Jewish beliefs, ethics, and practices; Jewish history and communities; and Jewish contributions to civilisation. Most sessions will also begin with a segment called “Israel matters”, with updates about events in Israel and the Jewish world. Jewish religious festivals will be highlighted as they occur during the year.
The course is for non-Jewish people, and is designed to suit both new and returning participants, with readings from Jewish sages and rabbis selected to be stimulating for all. In keeping with Jewish tradition, questions and discussion are welcome, the only requirement being mutual respect. The course is conducted on Zoom, on Wednesdays, from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm.

A study of Mandarin language and culture for people who have some knowledge of the language. Instructions in English.

Participants need to have done a recent French for Beginners course or to have studied French at school for at least two years. Members who want to refresh their grammar, build their confidence may benefit from attending this class as well as the 'Advanced' class. The tutor uses a variety of learning materials and customises each session to the needs of the participants.

This class is structured around articles on culture and social affairs sourced from the French media/Internet. It involves reading the articles in preparation for each class where we will go through complex vocabulary, expressions and grammar 'tricks' that bother participants. The objective is to have a lively conversation around those topics.

A good conversational knowledge of French is required. The current group is quite advanced and the conversation free-flowing on diverse topics.

We will be joining a loosely organised group of German speakers.

You do not need to be a member of U3A Box Hill to attend these meetings, but if you are already a member, please enrol and Manfred will introduce you to the other group members.

Diese Gruppe ist für alle, die Deutsch sprechen und ihre Sprachkenntnisse bei einer Tasse Kaffee üben möchten. Grundkenntnisse sind erforderlich. Es wäre schön, gemeinsam zu üben und voneinander zu lernen, neue Leute kennenzulernen, die sich für Deutsch begeistern und ihre Konversationsfähigkeiten verbessern möchten, Tipps zum Deutschlernen auszutauschen und von Muttersprachlern über ihre Kindheit und Jugend in deutschsprachigen Ländern sowie über die deutsche Kultur zu hören.

Die meisten regulären Mitglieder sind auf mittlerem bis fortgeschrittenem Niveau oder sind Muttersprachler.

📍 Churchill Cafe, 13 Hamilton St, Mont Albert VIC 3127

A basic knowledge of the Italian language is required

Prerequisite is Italian 2 or similar level of ability.

Spanish for beginners. This course is an introduction to the Spanish language and the culture of Spain & Latin America

Spanish for more advanced beginners. This course is an introduction to the Spanish language and the culture of Spain & Latin America

Do You Speak Another Language at Home?

A friendly conversation class for people who speak another language at home.
We practise everyday English — talking, listening, and the words you need at the shops, at the doctor, and with your neighbours. Relaxed and enjoyable, with an experienced, qualified teacher. No exams, no homework, all levels welcome. New class starting in Term 4.

A monthly meeting (including school holidays) to discuss classic and modern literature chosen by group members. Class leader will be by rotation of enrolled class members.

A monthly meeting (including school holidays) to discuss classic and modern literature chosen by group members. A great deal of fun to be had in a private home. Members take turns to chair the discussion of the book, its author and its relevance to our world.

A monthly meeting (including school holidays) to discuss classic and modern literature chosen by group members. A different book each month provides for all tastes and interesting discussions while sharing a sociable afternoon tea. The Chris Hammer novel was enjoyed by all.

Study is made of the components of poetry such as meter, rhyme, form, sound and sense. Choices are made from medieval to present-day poets from eastern, western and Asian cultures. Some historical research is undertaken on the cultures that form the thoughts of the poets. Each term some presentations are made by individuals on the work of different poets.

Join a community of creative writers and friends at our weekly writing group. Share your work- prose, poetry, accounts of personal experiences, family history, fictional stories - and receive constructive feedback in a supportive environment. New Members always welcome !

A chance for singers to get together in an informal social atmosphere. It is helpful if members can read music and have a good sense of pitch. Box Hill members will be a guest members of U3A Deepdene for this course which is held in Deepdene

Members with an interest in music from Folk to Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Contemporary periods are welcome to join. Programs feature documentaries, visiting professional musicians and excursions to concerts. Sessions are led by different presenters sharing their love of music. This year, visual presentations will be featured, with possible outings to music-related sites.

These sessions will include music videos from the halcyon days of Rock and Roll. While these videos will include sections from the major performing artists of the time such as Elvis, Chuck Berry and Jerry Lee Lewis through to the Beatles, Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen, there will also be examples from some of the earlier Rhythm and Blues, Country, Jazz and Gospel artists, many now forgotten or unrecognised, who had such a major influence on those who followed and reaped the success and the rewards.

This class introduces you to a relatively simple to play instrument. Learn the simpler chords and notes in a convivial, supportive environment.

The aim is to create a U3A Box Hill ukulele choir. Instruments are available to be borrowed. Come and do your brain a favour by learning new skill.

This class introduces you to a relatively simple to play instrument. Learn the simpler chords and notes in a convivial, supportive environment. The aim is to create a U3A Box Hill ukulele choir. Instruments are available to be borrowed. Come and do your brain a favour by learning new skill.

Cantonese Opera, an art form inscribed onto the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009, is one of the main categories in Chinese Opera. It is a traditional art form that involves music, singing, and acting. Join us in learning to utilise Gong Chi notation (工尺譜) and singing techniques. This course is for those interested in Cantonese Opera singing.

This class uses philosophical concepts to examine and analyse social issues.

Entertaining Philosophical Ideas

These sessions provide for a thoughtful and engaging experience with a relaxed group of thinkers. It is an opportunity to share ideas, listen and ask questions. Our first session will be the topic, Forgetting and Remembering.

The Indigenous Garden Project aims to build on all the fabulous plantings of native and indigenous plants by U3A volunteers over the years in the garden surrounding the Strabane Avenue Hall. The council has donated 250 plants through their Gardens for Wildlife program and the project coordinators have also grown more plants from cuttings and seeds, so hundreds of indigenous plants are being added to the garden. This initiative is designed to create an environment that attracts and supports more native insects and birds, contributing to the local ecosystem's health and biodiversity. This project is open to all interested members of U3A Box Hill. Participation is flexible, with work sessions scheduled on an as-needed and as-available basis, allowing members to contribute at their convenience. Tasks within the project include weeding, watering (especially over summer - if you miss U3A over the summer break, here's a chance to come and meet up with other members), planting, mulching, propagation, photography, signage, collecting materials . . . . bring whatever talents you have, and we'll see if there is way to incorporate them. Join us in cultivating a vibrant, indigenous garden that nurtures our natural heritage and brings life to our community space.

The art (or craft!) of wine appreciation is socially developed in this series of wine samplings. A donation of $10 to cover costs of each session is required. Welcome to new members.

This group enjoys the opportunity to discover the variety of wines worldwide that offer us an incredible learning experience about climate, terroir, history, and the people who produce wine.

Be the welcoming face of U3A Box Hill

Would you like to be part of the team that keeps our U3A running smoothly? We’re looking for friendly members to help in the office.

What you’ll do
• Greet members and visitors and help them feel at home
• Answer the phone and handle simple enquiries
• Issue parking permits to members
• Collect the mail and keep the office organised
• Optional: assist with basic computer or printing tasks if you enjoy that

What’s in it for you
• Be at the heart of the action — meet tutors, members, and visitors
• Enjoy a friendly, social atmosphere while helping out
• Feel good knowing you’re making a real difference to our community
• Flexible: swaps available if needed
• Only 3 hours per session

No special skills required – we’ll show you what to do, and you’ll always have support nearby.

special skills required – we’ll show you what to do, and you’ll always have support nearby.

Be the welcoming face of U3A Box Hill

Would you like to be part of the team that keeps our U3A running smoothly? We’re looking for friendly members to help in the office.

What you’ll do
• Greet members and visitors and help them feel at home
• Answer the phone and handle simple enquiries
• Issue parking permits to members
• Collect the mail and keep the office organised
• Optional: assist with basic computer or printing tasks if you enjoy that

What’s in it for you
• Be at the heart of the action — meet tutors, members, and visitors
• Enjoy a friendly, social atmosphere while helping out
• Feel good knowing you’re making a real difference to our community
• Flexible: swaps available if needed
• Only 3 hours per session

No special skills required – we’ll show you what to do, and you’ll always have support nearby.

Be the welcoming face of U3A Box Hill

Would you like to be part of the team that keeps our U3A running smoothly? We’re looking for friendly members to help in the office.

What you’ll do
• Greet members and visitors and help them feel at home
• Answer the phone and handle simple enquiries
• Issue parking permits to members
• Collect the mail and keep the office organised
• Optional: assist with basic computer or printing tasks if you enjoy that

What’s in it for you
• Be at the heart of the action — meet tutors, members, and visitors
• Enjoy a friendly, social atmosphere while helping out
• Feel good knowing you’re making a real difference to our community
• Flexible: swaps available if needed
• Only 3 hours per session

No special skills required – we’ll show you what to do, and you’ll always have support nearby.

Be the welcoming face of U3A Box Hill

Would you like to be part of the team that keeps our U3A running smoothly? We’re looking for friendly members to help in the office.

What you’ll do
• Greet members and visitors and help them feel at home
• Answer the phone and handle simple enquiries
• Issue parking permits to members
• Collect the mail and keep the office organised
• Optional: assist with basic computer or printing tasks if you enjoy that

What’s in it for you
• Be at the heart of the action — meet tutors, members, and visitors
• Enjoy a friendly, social atmosphere while helping out
• Feel good knowing you’re making a real difference to our community
• Flexible: swaps available if needed
• Only 3 hours per session

No special skills required – we’ll show you what to do, and you’ll always have support nearby.

Be the welcoming face of U3A Box Hill

Would you like to be part of the team that keeps our U3A running smoothly? We’re looking for friendly members to help in the office.

What you’ll do
• Greet members and visitors and help them feel at home
• Answer the phone and handle simple enquiries
• Issue parking permits to members
• Collect the mail and keep the office organised
• Optional: assist with basic computer or printing tasks if you enjoy that

What’s in it for you
• Be at the heart of the action — meet tutors, members, and visitors
• Enjoy a friendly, social atmosphere while helping out
• Feel good knowing you’re making a real difference to our community
• Flexible: swaps available if needed
• Only 3 hours per session

No special skills required – we’ll show you what to do, and you’ll always have support nearby.

Be the welcoming face of U3A Box Hill

Looking to stay active, connected, and make a practical contribution? Join our Welcome Desk team and play a key role in keeping U3A Box Hill running smoothly.

What you’ll do:

Welcome members and visitors and create a positive first impression
Handle phone enquiries and day-to-day questions
Manage incoming emails and respond or direct them appropriately
Assist with simple membership tasks (lookups, updates, basic enquiries)
Issue parking permits and support general office coordination
Help keep the office organised and running efficiently

Training and support:

Structured, hands-on training to get you started
Work alongside experienced team members until you’re confident
Ongoing support when needed — you’re never on your own

Why join:

Stay engaged and connected with a vibrant community
Be part of a capable, collaborative team
Use and build practical admin and digital skills
Flexible roster with easy swaps

No prior experience needed — just a willingness to learn and contribute.

Our U3A relies on well-managed technology to support classes, communication, and daily operations. The IT Systems Administrator team helps keep our systems reliable, secure, and easy for volunteers to use.
This role is shared – ideally across 3–4 volunteers – so that responsibility, knowledge and workload are distributed. Each person contributes according to their skills and availability, and we support one another.

Key Responsibilities
• Maintain and monitor computers, office equipment and network systems.
• Evaluate technology needs and propose practical improvements.
• Commission and configure new equipment.
• Maintain website hosting and cloud infrastructure (Linux-based), including backups.
• Administer the email system and assist with role-based and volunteer account management.
• Manage the office mobile phone, including secure storage, charging, configuration, software updates, and asset tracking.
• Assist tutors and office volunteers with technical issues, either remotely or onsite.
• Create simple, clear documentation and procedures so that others can work confidently.

Helpful Skills:
• General IT knowledge, willingness to troubleshoot and learn
• Clear communication and a calm, supportive approach
• Familiarity with Linux, networking, or cloud hosting is useful (not mandatory)

Benefits of Volunteering
• Apply and expand your technical skills in a friendly, real-world environment.
• Learn new systems at your own pace with support from teammates.
• Shape how U3A uses technology to improve access, communication and learning.
• Make a visible difference to the experience of tutors, volunteers and members.
• Flexible hours — much of the work can be done remotely and on your schedule.
• Be part of a supportive team that values collaboration and shared knowledge.

If you enjoy problem-solving and would like to contribute behind the scenes, we would love to hear from you.

This role is ideal for someone who is comfortable using a computer and would like to help U3A Box Hill stay connected with members online. You don’t need to be “technical” — just willing to learn a few simple tools. The role is flexible and can grow according to your interests. Focus on just one area (e.g. Facebook moderation) or contribute across several. What You’ll Do (choose one or more) 1. Social Media Engagement (Facebook) Help keep our online community welcoming and up-to-date by: • Posting news and class highlights • Sharing photos or reminders • Moderating comments to ensure friendly, respectful interaction • No prior experience managing a page is needed — we’ll show you how. 2. Website Content Updates (optional) If you’re interested, you can assist with basic updates on our website (WordPress), such as: • Updating class or event information • Uploading newsletters or images • Improving clarity and readability of pages Training and ongoing support will be provided. You can learn at your own pace. 3. Developing Helpful Guides & Procedures (optional) Some volunteers enjoy: • Writing short “how-to” notes • Creating clear steps for others to follow • Helping refine simple, member-friendly communication This is a valuable contribution — especially if you like clarity and organisation. What You Bring • Basic confidence using email, web browsers, and simple online tools • A friendly approach to communication • Willingness to learn and to work collaboratively • Respect for privacy and member information What You Gain • Practical, useful digital communication skills • The opportunity to shape how our organisation connects with members • A flexible role that fits the time you have available • The satisfaction of helping U3A members stay informed and engaged Support This is not a technical or “IT manager” role. You can start with simple tasks, and only take on more if and when you feel ready. Training and guidance will be available.

• Support our Membership Team by entering and editing data on the UMAS Membership System.
• Approximately 1 -2 hours per term on Mondays.
• Training and assistance are provided.
• Basic computer skills are required.

Help keep our hall and grounds in good nick. Working bees are help twice a year. Work includes tidying the garden, spring cleaning the inside and outside of the hall at Strabane Avenue, and whatever else is needed. Usually on a morning in the term breaks, and lunch is provided afterwards! Bring your own tools.

Help keep our hall and grounds in good nick. Fix small things, put up notice boards and similar handy person jobs as they arise. You'll probably need your own tools.

Help to maintain the library in good order. Follow established guidelines for adding new material donated by U3A Members. Routinely weed the collection according to the guidelines. Volunteers in the team are on a rotating roster and perform their duties when the front room is free. Training is provided. Experience working in library would be an advantage but not essential. An interest in books and reading is important.

Help in the planning and set up for U3A Box Hill functions. Members will be advised by event coordinator as and when required.

Help with planning, food and drink preparation for functions held during the year such as New Members Afternoon Tea, Xmas Lunch. Then cleaning up after. (groan)

Help with keeping the kitchen clean and tidy, deal with the dishwasher, keeping the fridge clean and tidy etc

Our U3A thrives because members step forward to help guide its future. Joining the Committee of Management (CoM) is an opportunity to contribute to the direction, wellbeing, and sustainability of our organisation.
The CoM works as a collaborative team to make decisions, plan ahead, support programs and volunteers, and help ensure U3A Box Hill remains welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant. Committee members also develop relationships across the organisation – with tutors, activity leaders, office volunteers, and the wider membership.
This is a leadership role, but leadership here means listening, contributing ideas, and working constructively with others. You do not need prior committee experience – a willingness to learn, be engaged, and act in the best interests of the organisation is what matters.

How membership works:
• Committee members are nominated and elected at the Annual General Meeting.
• The Constitution limits the number of voting CoM members.
• However, interested members may attend CoM meetings as guests (non-voting) if they would like to learn more or contribute to discussions before deciding whether to nominate.

Key responsibilities:
As U3A Box Hill is an Incorporated Association, CoM members are regarded as Association Directors and are expected to:
• Act in good faith and in the best interests of the organisation.
• Exercise reasonable care and diligence in decision-making.
• Understand and support our financial sustainability.
• Disclose and manage any conflicts of interest.
• Use information and position responsibly.
• Comply with our Constitution and policies.

Meetings are held monthly, with flexibility to contribute according to your availability. If you would like to take part – either as a guest or as a potential nominee – we warmly welcome your interest in helping shape the future of our U3A.