U3A (University of the Third Age) originally started in 1972 in France and the aim is to offer interesting and informal courses as well as other cultural activities such as outings and lunches. In 1986 Walter Eacott founded the so-called “Retired Persons of Werribee”, and it soon became the wish of a number of those members to start up a U3A group in Werribee. At that stage, the nearest U3A group was in Footscray and towards the end of the 1980’s we joined in classes there for a couple of years, until finally we decided to set up our own U3A Werribee group. So in January 1992, we who were living in what was then called the City of Werribee, called an interest meeting to gauge support for starting up our own branch of U3A and there was an enthusiastic response. By February of that year, we became established with 35 members, running courses in history, psychiatry, calligraphy, art and current affairs.

At the beginning of 2024 our organisation had 157 members. Our courses have also grown to include yoga, Tai-Chi, senior men in light exercise, line dancing, exploring history, music, mosaics, needlecraft, cards, book club, mahjong, computers, line dancing, ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ and movies groups.

We are one of many other similar U3A’s in Victoria who are part of the U3A Network Victoria group for 55 + age retired and semi-retired persons throughout the state.

U3A Werribee conducts courses at venues throughout Wyndham. These include Wyndham Park Community Centre, Tarneit Community and Learning Centre, Heathglen Retirement Village in Werribee, Hoppers Crossing Sports Club in Hogans Road, Hoppers Crossing and Private Residences. Our Course Leaders are members of U3A who share their particular skills with other members of our organisation.  We are managed by a committee of volunteers elected by the members.

The third age refers to that stage of life that follows after the earlier stages of youth and also work/home-making periods of life. Our courses cover a wide range of interest areas, from academic to physical and artistic activities. Our members enjoy both the intellectual engagement and the social aspect of our courses.