U3A Gympie

U3A or University of the Third Age is an international movement to encourage retired and semi retired people to take part in lifelong learning for pleasure. It caters for people who no longer work full time and yet still wish to broaden their horizons; there is no pressure, no exams, just a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. U3A Gympie also welcomes younger people who might wish to share their knowledge with us, the only proviso is that they understand that the classes are aimed at /suitable for older folk. Our Tutors are all volunteers who are willing to share their skills with other Members.U3A was founded in Toulouse, France in 1972. It was a formal University based organisation. 
 By 1975, and international association had been established and in 1981 a less formal concept of self help and mutual sharing was introduced into Britain.
In 1984 the first Australian U3A was formed in Melbourne based on the British model. Gympie U3A held its first class in 1987. Australia now has over 300 U3A branches.