What a wonderful celebration we had on Sunday!  Here is the lowdown!
Our event was a true testament to the “spirit of Christmas and community camaraderie”.  From the moment guests were greeted by the delightful Santa cutouts courtesy of Bright Rotary and the Bright United Mens Shed, to being ushered into our beautifully adorned hall by our playful elves (Ann Borschmann and Jenny Swaneveld) there was an undeniable buzz of excitement in the air.

The hall was transformed into a festive wonderland with Christmas trees, greenery hanging from the rafters, and walls draped in seasonal fabrics and our stage  added to the charm with exquisite decorations lent to us by Amanda from our very own Bright Xmas shop, “Making Spirits Bright”.  Bruce McDonald starred in a magical display featuring Santa in his iconic red chair at the North Pole and our guests sleeted confetti snow upon him!

The afternoon was filled with joyous melodies as Alpine Voices, led by the talented Olivia Stapleton, serenaded us with beloved Christmas carols like “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “Jingle Bells.” Our MC, Michael Smith, added to the festive spirit by donning a whimsical Christmas turkey hat and guided us through entertaining activities, including a spirited rendition of the Australian version of “The 12 Days Of Christmas.”  Each guest participated by holding an animal profile, enthusiastically waving their “animal” whenever their creature was mentioned—a spectacle akin to a Mexican Wave at the MCG !!. Laughter and cheer abounded.

A sumptuous meal was prepared by Dave McKinnon from The High Country Chef, featuring a delightful prawn cocktail entree followed by a superb buffet roast dinner. 
Continuing with entertainment our poet laureate Penny White swept around the hall reciting her clever poem and later Helen Brecknell presented captivating and beautiful photos of U3A activities on our new electronic screen.

Dessert, tea, coffee, and chocolates rounded off the meal perfectly, allowing plenty of time for mingling and heartfelt conversations among friends old and new.

Special thanks to Jan Smith, our dedicated social convener, and her incredible team including Jenni McFadyen for her creative hall decorations that truly wowed us. We are also grateful to Ann Borschmann, Jenny Swaneveld and Bruce Mc Donald, Michael Smith, Olivia Stapleton and the choir, Jules Thompson, Caroline Riedy, Penny White and Helen Brecknell for their contributions, as well as the invaluable assistance from Rob Riedy, Jan and Andrew Bird, Mirry McDonald and Paul McFadyen. 

Thank you to everyone who made this event possible and to you, our members and friends who participated and a big thankyou to those extending positive vibes to the team.
It was a day filled with laughter, friendship, and the true spirit of Christmas epitomising our U3A Community.

Some images from the Mt Dunn Circuit Walk. Thanks, Barry, for the image of our group at the lunch spot on Wild Dog Plain.

Bright U3A can certainly live it up! Welcome to 2024 was celebrated in style. With Jan organising the dinner and catered by High Country Chef, we all had a great time.

A full house of 62 guests included members from nearly every activity group in U3A, making it a very relaxed, convivial occasion. 

The happy chatter told it all.

A two course, sit down dinner, catered by Dave Mc Kinnon of “The High Country Chef” was an excellent meal of roast meats and vegetables, followed by fruit salad and pavlova.

To be held at Bright Golf Club on Friday 30th June.

9 holes of social play. Bring your own clubs and pay $25 green fees at the clubhouse when you arrive.
Meet at 9:45 and having coffee and lunch at Punkah Pantry after the game.
Further info from Jan Smith — social@u3abright.org.au

The golf event will be on 12th May at 9:30am. The golf course has been booked.

“The social committee would like to start a U3A casual social 9 hole golf group. 
The plan is to meet monthly, probably on Fridays.
Cost will be the fee for 9 holes at Bright Golf course. All are welcome to join, no handicap needed.

If interested please email Jan Smith michaelandjansmith@gmail.com “

Images taken at the Dinner celebrating our move into the new premises at 2 Cobden St.

THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED

Bright U3A has accepted the offer of a community keg on Wednesday 22nd February.

Come along for a beer from 5pm onwards.

Instead of paying for your drink, you make a donation and 100% is donated to Bright U3A.

Several U3A members are staying for dinner. If you wish to join us, please email Jan Smith

michaelandjansmith@gmail.com

and she will book you in.