Held in the Senior Citizen’s Centre off Russell Street on Wednesday, more than 250 course enrolments were accepted in just over an hour.

A huge range of courses, groups and study options are available through the U3A including: craft, writing, first aid, drama, chess, armchair travel, metaphysics, music appreciation and a range of languages.

U3A president Lindsay Cox said the Bathurst group had a membership of 550 people and many have signed up for courses for years.

“We go by the motto of if you don’t use it you lose it. That’s what it’s all about,” he said.

“U3A is for active retirees, it’s for mind and body.

“It’s a community effort and it’s one of the best things I’ve ever been involved with.”

German and creative writing course facilitator Jenny Maclennan has taught for the U3A for the past six years.

“I love it, it’s an enjoyable thing to do,” she said.

Bathurst U3A membership is $30 and all courses are included in this cost.

New members are always welcome and enrolments can still be made by visiting Bathust U3A online at or by visiting The Neighbourhood Centre at 96 Russell Street.