Welcome to Shellharbour City U3A
U3A (University of the Third Age) is a volunteer not for profit based organisation involved in the sharing of knowledge, skills and interests of mainly retired members of the community while promoting the many benefits of life long learning.
Learn, Laugh, Live
Our two speakers were members from our own ranks. It is so great to see our friends getting up and telling us part of their story or sharing their research into matters that interest them.
Our first speaker for 2026 was Sue Halliwell who told us the interesting story of her mother Shirley who has just had her 102 birthday - what an innings!
Born in 1924, what changes she must have seen.
Our second speaker was Jacqui Price who gave a comprehensive run down on the life and work of Dr Fred Hollows.
He restored sight to thousands of people around the world and trained countless eye doctors to do the same. He believed everyone has the right to quality, affordable eye care.
Dr Fred Hollows
Dr Sanduk Ruit
One of the noteable doctors he mentored was Sanduk Ruit an Nepalese opthalmogist who became involved in restoring the sight of over 180,000 people across Africa and Asia using small-incision cataract surgery.
Ruit and Fred Hollows developed a strategy for using inexpensive intraocular lenses to bring small-incision cataract surgery to the developing world.
However, the lenses remained too expensive for many cataract patients. But, in 1995, Ruit developed a new intraocular lens that could be produced far more cheaply and which, as of 2010, is used in over 60 countries and his method is now taught in many medical schools
VALE - HEDDY STERN
Sadly, we advise that Heddy Stern passed away on Tuesday 10th February 2026. Heddy has been a member of Shellharbour U3A since 5th March 2005. She, along with other members, was recognised for her continuous support of our organisation at a special afternoon tea and presentation in December 2024.
Heddy usually sat in the front row and knitted as she listened with interest to the speakers on Tuesday afternoons. She enjoyed reading, having a chat and attending U3A social activities.
Our deepest condolences and sympathies go to her family.
Heddy you will be sadly missed.
Rest in Peace
VALE - GWENDA BURKE
Gwenda, presenting her history research at one of the Tuesday afternoon talks.
It is with great sadness and regret that we announce the sudden passing of Gwenda Burke on Saturday 7th February 2026. Gwenda joined Shellharbour City U3A on 2nd February 2016 and she, and husband Norm, contributed with many tasks in running our club. Gwenda did a marvellous job as Welcome Officer on Tuesday afternoons, making a special effort to welcome visitors and new members.
Gwenda had many interests, she loved dancing and was also involved in various U3A activities and classes, such as computer, watercolour, 20th century history and table tennis to name a few. Gwenda, together with Norm and friends, entertained us with a performance of The Man from Ironbark, a few years ago. On a number of occasions she presented her research from the history class at the Tuesday afternoon talks. Gwenda was a very active U3A member, and will be truly missed.
Our deepest condolences and sympathies go to Norman and family.
Rest In Peace Gwen
