U3A Gold Coast Inc. Southport

University of the 3rd Age (U3A) started in France at the Faculty of Social Sciences in Toulouse in 1973. It was started by Prof. Pierre Vellas. In France the Third Age University is mostly associated with a local university. This academic model is used in many other countries, in particular in continental Europe. By the early 1980s, the scheme reached the United Kingdom where its nature was radically changed to be more a self-help organisation. This model is also used in Australia, Cyprus, Dominica, New Zealand and South Africa. U3A commenced in Melbourne Australia in 1984. From that beginning it has developed into 250 U3As with approximately 85,000 members (as at 2013). These are based in metropolitan, regional and rural areas, and follow the "British" self-help model of teaching and learning over a wide range of subject areas. Members are encouraged to participate either by teaching a subject of their choice, or learning whatever takes their interest. No qualifications are required - no exams - no rewards - other than gaining personal satisfaction in sharing your knowledge on any subject that holds your interest The main office is situated on the first floor of Australia Fair Shopping Centre, Southport. This office is for all Registrations and Administration. Our other locations are at Margaret Street and Community Centre in Lawson street, Southport. There are two semesters per year, with a 4-week break in July and approximately 7 weeks at Xmas/New year. Please refer to the "Classes" page for details. Membership is open to 45+ years. Please note that there is only one fee per year - at registration, this covers all classes. There are no extra cost to attend classes, except for materials that may be required by some classes (e.g. art class, craft, etc.). It all started with the old Southport School in Lawson Street. Then over to the old Community Center, and now to the new Community Center, as well as our study room, reception and Office in Australia Fair.