January 2024 gave many the chance to take a break: reconnect with family and friends; enjoy some sport, either in-person or on the television; or just ‘chill-out’ and maybe read a book or enjoy some music. Whatever you chose, we trust you enjoyed your break, and perhaps appreciated this year’s milder summer? Meantime, some of your fellow members joined one or more classes in our Summer School program.
Programmed Council maintenance at The Pines delayed the start of our on-site summer school classes until mid-January. So, we started the year with some excursions: a walk along Collins Street to take in the atmosphere and architecture of ‘Marvelous Melbourne’; a visit to the State Library, RMIT and Trades Hall precinct; a Local History walk at Finns Reserve; and a guided tour of Rippon Lea mansion, plus time in the magnificent gardens in Elsternwick.
It was great to get out, stretch our legs and enjoy some of our wonderful city with friends. Fortunately, it wasn’t too hot. Unfortunately, one of our local walks — Pettys Orchard / Tikalara — had to be cancelled at the last minute, due to heavy rain. Thanks to Jim Poulter for his continued support of Summer School.
On 16 January our Pines program commenced. Once again, these classes were well supported. Thanks to Marg Dawdy and Sandra Marshall for running the very popular 9 am Strength Training and 10.30 am Chair-Based Exercise classes, and to Barbara Spagnolo for running Dance to the Beat. Each of these helps our efforts to stay active and maintain our fitness.
Members seeking a chat and some mental stimulation joined classes in Quiz/Trivia, Ancient Egyptian History, Current Affairs and Bridge. Many thanks to tutors Joan Kelleher, Michael Howard, Deidre Raits and Tess Gibbs.
We also want to thank our summer school volunteers who assisted with opening and closing the building and in the Office. Your contribution is much appreciated. Looks like we’re off to a great start in 2024.
Liz Haylock
Summer School Coordinator