The U3A Manningham Office 

The Front Office is the welcoming doorway to our halls of learning. It is where questions are answered, problems are solved and friendships often begin. Behind the desk there is careful planning, computer know-how and the ability to juggle many queries at once. At times there are urgent matters that need calm attention. Above all, it calls for genuine people skills.

Robyn Buttling and Tess Gibbs

Office Manager Robyn Buttling brings all of this, and more, to her role every single day. Together with Roster Coordinator, Tess Gibbs, they form a strong and steady presence in the front office. This article pays tribute to their dedication and contribution to U3A Manningham over many years.

About Robyn

Robyn, a retired office manager, joined U3AM in 2013. Within a couple of months, she was already volunteering. Joining midyear meant there were limited class choices, so she enrolled in walking groups, Aboriginal History, Psychology and Philosophy. It was a wonderful introduction to the breadth of learning U3A offers.

After 3 years of volunteering, Robyn was invited by the then Office Manager Jeanette Shaw to step into the role herself. It marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

Robyn’s background

Born and raised in Sydney, Robyn’s working life has been varied and people focused. She has worked as a medical receptionist, dance teacher and fitness instructor. It is easy to see how these roles shaped her warm, easygoing personality and strong communication skills.

A local resident for 22 years, Robyn is the proud mother of three married children and grandmother to four grandchildren aged 18, 16, 7 and 5. Family remains at the heart of her life.

Changes over the past 10 years

Robyn has witnessed significant changes in the way the office operates. Electronic communication has transformed both office systems and the way members interact with U3A. Where once 3 volunteers were needed for each morning and afternoon session, now 2 people manage each shift. Although membership remains strong, fewer members need to visit in person thanks to improved technology.

Classes Robyn enjoys

Robyn does not just work at U3A, she participates too. She currently attends Strength Training as an associate tutor, Mandalas and Dancercise. Staying active and engaged continues to be important to her.

Behind the scenes

Robyn’s role is varied and often busy. She attends Committee of Management meetings and contributes to decisions that guide the direction of U3A. She prepares and runs training sessions for new volunteers, helps establish subcommittees, orders supplies, sends notices, types timetables and oversees the daily running of the office. Much of this work happens quietly in the background, yet it keeps everything running smoothly.

Robyn going forward

From the AGM in March, Robyn will no longer sit on the Committee of Management, and she will step down as Office Manager. However, she will continue to share her experience in the office. She is also looking forward to spending one day each week with her youngest grandchild and has joined a Probus Club.

About Tess

A quiet contributor

Tess Gibbs is our dedicated Roster Coordinator. Coordinating 140 volunteers for the roster requires many hours of preparation and careful organisation. With her calm and gentle manner, Tess manages the complex system with accuracy and quiet determination. Her attention to detail and patience are greatly appreciated.

Tess joined U3AM when it was still located in Templestowe. She initially joined a bridge class and worked as a volunteer in the office. She quickly became more involved in both activities.

Tess met Robyn while they were both working in the office. Over time, a professional partnership grew into a valued friendship. Together they helped build the efficient and welcoming office system we enjoy today.

Tess’s passion

Tess first noticed bridge classes advertised in the brochure, and that simple decision began a lifelong passion. She smiles as she says: ‘Bridge saved my sanity.’

Today she tutors a well-attended bridge class and aims to create a warm, informal atmosphere. She encourages players to relax, learn through discussion and enjoy the social side of the game. It reflects the same thoughtful approach she brings to the office.

Before U3A

Before joining U3A, Tess worked as a therapy radiographer. She spent 7 years living in Papua New Guinea and studied behavioural science on her return. Her varied experiences have clearly shaped her thoughtful and people-centred approach.

Why consider retirement?

When asked why she is considering stepping back, Tess answers with characteristic honesty and humour: ‘Old age. It is time to let other people organise the rosters before my brain fades. I like a brain challenge and helping people, and this job has given me the chance to meet many interesting and lovely people.’

Tess is now training 2 members to coordinate the roster system. It is expected that they will take on the role of Roster Organisers in the near future. It is hard to imagine the position without Tess, yet she is carefully ensuring a smooth transition.

She plans to continue teaching her bridge classes and to spend more time exploring her interest in family history.

With Appreciation

Robyn and Tess have worked harmoniously together for many years. U3A has been more than a workplace for them. It has been part of their social fabric, a place of friendship, learning and shared purpose. Their contribution to the U3AM office has shaped the welcoming spirit that members experience every day.

Dawn Head
Communications Team