We certainly need it, both in relation to the majority of the elected representatives as well as senior council staff.

The local government elections can't come soon enough.

U3A Batemans Bay has been providing courses and social activities for the over 50s in the Eurobodalla Shire for more than 20 years. It is a unique organization in that every person involved, including the committee and tutors, is a volunteer.

Tutors are members who offer their time, knowledge and interests to others.

A variety of activities are offered which are held at different venues throughout the shire. Some of the many activities enjoyed by U3A participants are classified under the broad headings of arts and crafts, languages, history and culture, physical activities, literary activities (including book groups), recreational activities, science and general interest.

Joining U3A is a great way of meeting people. As one member says: "Moving 10 years ago to the Bay from Sydney, we did not know anyone in the area. Joining U3A gave us the opportunity to meet other people with similar interests. We now have a great circle of local friends."

In previous years, registration day was one of the highlights of the year. Members would meet each other, talk to the tutors and enrol in the activities offered.

Batemans Bay U3A has a Covid-19 policy. Registration is therefore now online at bbay.u3anet.org.au.

Application for membership is now open. The cost for new members for a year is $40. Renewing membership, for this year only, is $30.

Most courses are free of charge, with the exception of incidentals such as materials used in the course. Some activities ask for a voluntary gold coin donation.

Enrolment in the courses are accepted from Thursday, January 21.

As well as online, new members may also join and enrol in classes on Thursday, January 21, from 9.30-11.30 am at the Community Centre, Museum Place, Batemans Bay. Existing members can only renew and enrol online, except for those members who do not have internet.

All face-to-face courses will adhere strictly to Covid-19 safe practices.

Otherwise courses will be held on-line.

Due to the Covid-19 safe practices, course participation numbers are limited and early enrolment is advised. If a course is fully booked, members will be placed on a waiting list.

New tutors are always welcome. Do you have a skill, knowledge or specific interest you might want to share?

Please contact coordinator2@bbay.u3anet.org.au

For all information about Batemans Bay U3A go to the website: bbay.u3anet.org.au or call 82505262 and leave a message.