U3A Townsville Presidents Report

MAY 2025  President’s Report.  .

There is no doubt that the members of U3A were satisfied with the co-location to Ryan St, the MOU was developed in good faith with the Senior Citizens Committee of the time and U3A seemed very well settled by the U3A members who used that location. But, as we now know the Senior Citizens committee changed their executive and the new committee changed their attitude and commitment to the MOU and our presence at the Senior Citizens premises. This was demonstrated in many ways that left our Branch feeling under siege, with the demand that we sign a 12 month lease and pay the hourly rate to use amenities or leave. It was gratifying to have the huge attendance at the U3A AGM, not only to complete the business requirements of our Incorporation, but also giving time to go over the issues, make suggestions and plan some options. But underneath it all was the survival of our branch and the safety of our members. Our many levels of Duty of Care made it plain that leaving was the best option and it is a tribute to the Committee, the Admin and Tutor volunteers, along with U3A members all of whom achieved a quick removal and set up at D4 COC in Vincent. Although very disappointing for many, we are well placed to continue the U3A purpose of Lifelong Learning, to contribute to raising the level of physical, mental, social health and the quality of life of older people. Townsville was an early adopter of the aims of U3A and although our 8 months of co-location has come to an end, it is important to emphasis that U3A were not at fault and were subjected to much misinformation and unpleasantness. 

As a registered Charity with ACNC, 3/12/2012, we also have obligations under that heading and they include: • maintain a, protect and enhance public trust and confidence in the Australian not for profit sector. • The Governance Standard 5: The duties of Responsible People sets out the following; • to act with reasonable care and diligence • to act honestly and fairly in the best interests of the charity and for its charitable purposes • not to misuse their position or information they gain as a Responsible Person • to disclose conflicts of interest • to ensure that the financial affairs of the charity are managed responsibly, and • not to allow the charity to operate while it is insolvent. Our committee (responsible persons) monitor our obligations under our Associations Incorporation Act as well as the ACNC, and along with the support of the U3A Qld Network, ensure we comply to all areas required of us. So we will pull together and start again to continue with the well being of our members and our branch.

 Pauline Woodbridge OAM