Get ready for an exciting journey with Wollongong's University of the Third Age (U3A) as they kick off their 2026 program with a series of captivating guest lectures! These sessions, held at the Salvation Army auditorium in Burelli Street, promise to be an intellectual feast for all.
Unraveling a 60-Year Mystery: The Disappearance of the Beaumont Children
On Monday, February 9th, at 9:30 a.m., Stuart Traynor takes us back to a chilling case from 1966. Jane, Arnna, and Grant Beaumont, aged 9, 7, and 4 respectively, vanished without a trace from Glenelg Beach in Adelaide. Despite being the most extensive police investigation in Australian history, the children and their abductors remain a mystery. But here's where it gets controversial... recent evidence suggests they were taken by a powerful Adelaide businessman who passed away in 2004. Stuart will unveil the latest research and theories, shedding light on this dark chapter and potentially revealing the final resting place of these innocent lives.
Saving Lives: The Power of Defibrillators
Also on Monday, at 11:30 a.m., Larry Jennett steps up to present his talk, 'We are Buying Time'. Larry, with his 65 years of experience in the lifesaving movement, will educate us on the importance of emergency first aid and resuscitation. He'll show us how defibrillators can be our secret weapon, giving an unconscious person a fighting chance while we wait for the paramedics to arrive. Larry's expertise will ensure the U3A audience is well-equipped with the knowledge to operate and safely use a defibrillator, a skill that could make all the difference in an emergency.
Exploring Aboriginal Mythology and the Night Sky
On Thursday, February 12th, at 9:30 a.m., Robyn Menghi invites us to delve into the rich cultural heritage of Australia's First Nations people. Starting from 1770, Robyn will contrast the European explorers' view of the night sky with that of the indigenous Australians. For over 65,000 years, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived in harmony with the night sky, using its patterns for navigation, seasonal calendars, resource management, law, and social structure. Robyn will illustrate how their deep knowledge of the sun, moon, stars, and dark spaces connects them to their ancestral Elders and Country.
The Rise of Plastics: A Historical Perspective
On Monday, February 16th, Peter McIlquham begins a three-part series on 'The Ubiquity of Plastics'. The initial presentation takes us back to the mid-1800s, exploring the development and adoption of new 'wonder materials', or plastics, like rayon, bakelite, and cellophane. Plastics have been instrumental in shaping modern society, from electricity networks to communication. Peter will also delve into the post-World War II era, highlighting how plastics became an integral part of our daily lives and examining some of the materials that revolutionized households, such as nylon, Tupperware, cling wrap, and silicon.
Divided Nations: The United Kingdom's Complex History
Under the 'Divided Nations' theme, Simon Hodsden explores the intricate divisions within the United Kingdom on Thursday, February 19th. The lecture begins with the history of the unification of the Crowns of Scotland and England, leading to the Act of Union. Simon will explain how Ireland became part of the United Kingdom and the problems that ensued. The audience will be guided through the calls for referendums in the 1970s, leading to separate legislative bodies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Simon will conclude with the polarizing divisions caused by the Brexit movement and the emergence of modern English devolution movements, adding complexity to the idea of a 'United' Kingdom.
The Moon: Earth's Constant Companion
Peter McIlquham returns on Thursday, February 26th, at 9:30 a.m., to explore the mysteries of the Moon. From its worship as a god by early mankind to its influence on major calendars from different societies, the Moon has always held a special place in human history. Peter will delve into the science behind lunar phases, eclipses, blood moons, and supermoons. And this is the part most people miss... we only ever see one side of the Moon!
Wollongong U3A offers these thought-provoking talks and lectures every Monday and Thursday morning during school terms. So, if you're a retiree looking to continue your learning journey or a member of the public curious about these stimulating activities, feel free to join!
Don't miss out on these unique opportunities to expand your knowledge and engage with like-minded individuals. See you there!
