The event was opened by Rhonda Hoban, Mayor of Nambucca Shire, who warmly commended U3A for its wide range of activities and its contribution to the wellbeing of the senior members of the community.

President Sandra Edmonds welcomed guests, then asked life members Barbara Box, June Harrison and John Gardner to join her in presenting two new life memberships to mark the occasion of the 20th anniversary.

Min Cameron and Pat Richardson are the only two current members who were present at that first meeting on July 17, 1998.

For 20 years Min and Pat have been involved in the growth of U3A Nambucca Valley, from the original nine members to the almost 400 members we have today, and their commitment and dedication are worthy of reward.

The awards were followed by the cutting of an anniversary cake by Barbara, a founding member, and a precis of the history of U3A by long-time member Ian MacDiarmid.

Then followed several items of entertainment by various U3A groups – skits in Italian and about the joys of fishing, Scottish Country Dancing reels and strathspeys, upbeat Zumba routines, Ukulele items, a poetry reading, and a grand finale of synchronized swimming for seniors that brought the house down!

This was a great celebration of all that U3A offers its members and its community – fellowship, knowledge, enjoyment and stimulation.  

Here’s to the next 20 years!