Some people quietly become the heart of an organisation, and for U3A, that person is Andrew Barnett.

While we are fortunate to have many dedicated and hardworking members in leadership roles, Andrew’s constant presence, reliability and willingness to help make him truly unique to our organisation. Rarely does a function or class take place without Andrew working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Whether it is checking lighting, setting up computers, arranging rooms or solving last-minute problems, Andrew is always there, calmly making sure events and classes proceed without a hitch.

About Andrew

Andrew was raised and educated in Springvale. At the age of sixteen, he joined the army, beginning a remarkable thirty-year career that saw him progress from army apprentice to captain.

Andrew and his partner, Daniela Cursio, our Tutor Coordinator, have lived in Templestowe for the past fifteen years.

Andrew’s Army Career

Andrew trained as a motor mechanic apprentice and eventually managed the workshop. His skills and practical knowledge later led him into the purchasing and assessment of construction equipment, where his keen eye for detail helped identify faults and defects before equipment was approved for purchase.

Following his retirement from the army, Andrew continued serving as a public servant. In this role, he developed and updated technical policies and regulations and spent five years overseeing the technical advancement of army engineers.

For the following eight years, Andrew worked as a Technical Auditor, travelling throughout Australia auditing army workshops.

U3A and Andrew

Andrew joined U3A in 2016 and quickly became an invaluable member of the Committee of Management.

At each Committee meeting, Andrew prepares a detailed monthly report. His work often involves liaising with council regarding building operations and addressing matters that affect the smooth running of our organisation. He also researches and presents quotes for replacement equipment and new purchases when needed.

Classes and Interests

Andrew is involved in many aspects of U3A life, including:

• Movie Club – Co-Tutor
• Golf for Fun – Andrew admits he finds golf personally challenging!
• Cryptic Crosswords – Tutor, a perfect match for someone who enjoys solving problems.

Andrew is also a loyal supporter of the Collingwood Football Club.

Hobbies and Generosity

One of Andrew’s hobbies reflects his generous nature perfectly. Over the years, he has sourced more than fifty disused laptops, restored them and freely donated them to members.

As Maintenance and Equipment Manager, Andrew is always willing to assist members with their computer problems and technical challenges. Nothing ever seems too much trouble.

U3A sincerely thanks Andrew for his untiring dedication, commitment and generosity. Organisations like ours thrive because of members who quietly give their time, energy and expertise so willingly.

Thank you, Andrew. You are the first person we call when something goes wrong and the driving force behind all maintenance and equipment matters.

Got a maintenance problem?

Just remember: Ring for Andrew!

Dawn Head

Communications Team