Our Committee 2023/2024

Constant Hughes-Treherne - Chairman 

After a career in Information Technology my wife Elna and I retired to George in 2018. I enjoy the outdoors, birdwatching, hiking and cycling.

Cell number: 072 273 6611

Mike Holland - Vice-Chairman

I am a Physical Metallurgist by profession and have spent most of my career managing the integrity of high-pressure equipment in the South African synthetic fuels industry prior to lecturing extensively on the subject internationally. I am the immediate past Chairman of the George/Wilderness U3A and have been a member of U3A for around 15 years.

Cell number: 082 418 8545

Suretha Bester - Minutes Secretary

I was born in Stellenbosch, grew up in the Karoo and settled in Pretoria. I was a very privileged "stay at home mom" to our two boys. Once they were in high school I too "went back to school" as a personal assistant to a College Director. Andre and I gave up the Gauteng "rat race" for a healthier lifestyle in George in 2018.

Noleen Vermeulen - Newsletter compiler and editor

I grew up and was educated in the Eastern Cape, before spreading my wings. My husband and I eventually settled in Springs before moving to the Vaal Dam. My son and daughter both live in South Africa so I can fortunately spend plenty of time with my grandchildren. I joined U3A when I moved to George.

Claudia Harris - Treasurer

I am a retired accountant, widowed with four children and nine grandies. I love music, gardening, reading, and birding.

Jeanette West - Membership Secretary

I grew up in Johannesburg where I studied and worked before getting married.  Richard and I spent the early years of our marriage on various mines before moving to Benoni which is where we lived before retiring to George in 2018.  Our son and family live in Australia.  We joined the U3A when it started in Benoni and enjoy hiking, reading, playing bridge and exploring the beautiful Garden Route.

Roza Barnes - Armchair Travel and Digital Photography

I retired to George from Johannesburg in 2011. I lived here before so it was more of a "Home coming".  My career was in the Medical field and I retired as a Nursing Service Manager. I have two sons, both residing in the USA with their families. I have four grandchildren, all born in the States.  I might be retired but still enjoying dancing, hiking, travelling, good music and photography. By being a member of the U3A George/Wilderness I constantly improve my general knowledge, my skills and love socializing and meeting new people.

Cell number: 084 626 1048

Jill Holland - Social Secretary

I am a former technical librarian and a kindergarten schoolteacher and was a very successful potter for many years.  I am the immediate past Secretary of the George/Wilderness U3A and have been a member of U3A for around 15 years.

Johan Viljoen - Equipment and Website

I am a former SA Navy officer. Erna and I moved to George in 2016. We have two children. One in Pretoria and one teaching English in Taiwan. I joined U3A in 2017 and thoroughly enjoy the stimulating and varied talks and activities. My duties include administering the website and looking after our sound and other equipment. I am also the "chief projectionist." 

Cell number: 082 567 1626