Whether you’re an indoors or outdoors person, there’s articles and links to organisations for all kinds of interests here. From calligraphy to birdwatching, you’ll find something to inspire a new hobby, or encourage and nurture an old favourite.
Activities
A little bit country
For over 70 years the Country Women’s Association has made life better for women and children living in rural Australia and their work is just as relevant, if not more so, in these modern times.
With approximately 25,000 members and 1500 branches, the CWA is the largest women’s organisation in Australia and is self-funded and neither political nor sectarian, with their opinion being sought on many issues. Members are asked to participate in preparing responses to proposed legislative changes before they are sent to the appropriate body.
The CWA also offer great opportunities to get out there and meet new people and learn new skills, with classes being run in crafts, drama, cooking, public speaking and floral art. Workshops are also held to enable older members to get to grips with today’s modern technology such as ATMs, computers and electronic banking.
It’s all for a good cause too! As well as supporting local communities, The CWA have published the Country Classics cookbook, which is packed full of useful recipes for feeding a family or making and freezing for those living alone. The proceeds from the sale of the cookbook provide a scholarship to enable a nurse to undertake an undergraduate course and continue to work in a rural or remote community. Scholarships are also awarded at state level to students of all ages, in all fields.
For more information on how to locate and join your local CWA branch or to find out more about the excellent work they carry out across the country, click here.
Going clubbing!
Many thanks for your feedback on what you like to do with your spare time and what clubs you belong to. We’d like to share your experiences with particularly good clubs, ideas you have for new clubs or simply things that are easy, cheap (or even better free!) to do in your area. Below are some ideas you’ve already sent us and if you have any more, feel free to
Most of the clubs suggested are local but it gives you an idea of what is out there and a starting point to find what you’re looking for. Some of the other suggestions we were given were to try your local libraries, RSL clubs and churches, many of these often have different clubs that may interest you.
CAE book club
As well as providing short courses that you may find interesting, the Centre for Adult Education also support book groups all over Australia, providing all materials for a small annual fee. With over a 1,000 titles on offer, you’re sure to find something that interests you. Whether you wish to start your own book club or join and existing one, contact CAE for further information
University of the Third Age
U3A’s are great clubs to join if keeping your mind active is important to you. If learning a language, updating your computer skills, or developing your interest in art appeals, then your local U3A should be able to assist. There is also a social side to many U3A’s with many of them arranging lunch and dinner outings and even trips to the theatre. For more information click here
