Food, glorious food!
We are delighted to introduce Maureen Bowman, who has bravely stepped up to take on the important role of Catering Manager for U3A Manningham functions.
Passing the baton
Before we welcome Maureen, we pause to offer our heartfelt thanks to Graeme Martin, who has devoted an incredible 14 years to this role. Few of us can imagine the countless hours Graeme has contributed to making our events such a success. With up to 8 functions a year (and sometimes more), each catering for 150 or more people, the work involved has been immense. Graeme, we salute you for a job exceptionally well done.
About Maureen
Now, to our ‘new kid on the block.’ Maureen has been a member of U3A for around 7 years, where she enjoys both the Calligraphy class and Chess for Fun. A creative spirit, she is also an avid artist and member of the Doncaster Templestowe Artists’ Society. Maureen’s artistic talents extend to porcelain painting, where she serves as Membership Officer for the Victorian Guild of China Painters. She is also a keen knitter and watercolour painter; her dog portraits are particularly well loved!
Music is another joy in Maureen’s life. She sings with the Open Door Community Singers, a choir that performs at venues across Melbourne, from East Ivanhoe Shopping Centre at Christmas time to the Queen Victoria Market and beyond.
When asked about her favourites, Maureen shared that her all-time favourite song is ‘Calon Lân’, a Welsh lullaby, and her favourite food is a ‘big, steamy Thai dish.’
The Catering Team
Behind every U3A function is careful planning and teamwork. A roster of up to 15 volunteers is needed on the day. Food deliveries must be collected, then kitchen staff prepare and serve meals, drink stations are set up and, of course, everything is packed away afterwards so the hall can be used again. It’s a big responsibility, but one Maureen is ready to embrace.
A retired officer of the Australian Defence Force (Army Reserve) with 10 years of service, Maureen values the friendship and connection U3A brings. She says:
‘I enjoy the friendly interaction that U3A offers, and I hope to give back through the role of Catering Manager/Coordinator for U3A Manningham.’
Maureen acknowledges that she has ‘big shoes to fill’ following Graeme’s outstanding contribution. But there is no doubt that with her enthusiasm, creativity and warmth, Manningham U3A catering is in very good hands.
Thank you Graeme, and every success to Maureen as she takes on this new role.
Dawn Head
Editorial Team