The University of the Third Age (U3A) is back with a captivating lineup of guest lectures that will intrigue and inspire! But what's all the buzz about? Let's dive in and explore the fascinating topics on offer.
Unsolved Mystery: The Beaumont Children's Disappearance
On February 9th, Stuart Traynor takes us back to a chilling cold case. It's been 60 years since the Beaumont children vanished from an Adelaide beach. Despite the most extensive police search in Australian history, they were never found. But here's a twist: evidence suggests a wealthy businessman was involved. Who was this mysterious figure, and what became of the children? Stuart will reveal all, leaving you on the edge of your seat.
Emergency First Aid: Buying Time
And now for something completely different! Larry Jennett, a 65-year veteran in lifesaving, will teach you how to use a defibrillator to save lives. You'll learn how this device can be a true lifesaver in emergencies, and you'll gain the confidence to act when every second counts. A must-attend for anyone who wants to be prepared for the unexpected.
Aboriginal Astronomy: Seeing the Sky Differently
Robyn Menghi invites us to see the night sky through the eyes of Australia's First Nations people. On February 12th, she'll showcase how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures have interpreted the stars and dark spaces for over 65,000 years. From complex navigation to seasonal calendars and social structures, their understanding of the universe is truly remarkable. Get ready to be starstruck!
The Plastic Revolution: From Rayon to Tupperware
Peter McIlquham's three-part series begins on February 16th with a journey through the history of plastics. From the mid-1800s to the early 20th century, these 'wonder materials' transformed our world. But at what cost? Peter will delve into the explosion of plastics after World War II and how they've become an integral part of our daily lives. A thought-provoking look at the materials that shape our world.
The United Kingdom: A Nation Divided?
Simon Hodsden explores the complex political landscape of the UK on February 19th. From the unification of Scotland and England to the inclusion of Ireland, the UK's history is a tale of unity and division. But the real controversy lies in the modern era. Simon will guide us through the Brexit movement and the resulting calls for independence in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Is the UK truly united, or is it a nation of divided identities?
The Moon: Our Celestial Companion
Peter McIlquham returns on February 26th to unravel the mysteries of the Moon. From ancient worship to modern science, the Moon has captivated humanity. Discover how calendars were created based on lunar phases and explore the many faces of our closest celestial neighbor. And why do we only see one side of the Moon? All will be revealed.
Wollongong U3A's guest lectures are a treasure trove of knowledge, offering something for everyone. And the best part? They're open to the public! So, mark your calendars and join the U3A community for an enlightening experience. But be warned: you might just become a regular!
