THE artistic talents of some of Frankston’s older residents are being recognised thanks to the launch of an annual U3A award to showcase and acknowledge their creative skills.
Frankston U3A member Cheryl Miscamble came up with the idea for an awards ceremony after taking a creative writing class and recognising the “amazing” talents of other club members.
“Some of our members have joined the club on retirement and unleashed a talent that they haven’t used for more than 50 years,” she said.
“For some, it’s just been a hobby but now that they have the time, their talents are being nurtured and it is incredible to see what people can do.”
The awards are given in the categories of painting, drawing and writing. Ms Miscamble, who joined Frankston U3A last year, secured donations and prizes from several local businesses and club members for the launch of the awards last week.
At the inaugural awards night last week, federal Dunkley Liberal MP Chris Crewther acknowledged the significant role U3A plays in the nurturing of skills and provision of a social forum for members.
U3A Frankston is a not-for-profit organisation run by volunteers from four classrooms at John Paul College in Frankston. There are 760 members and 70 classes in a range of subjects. Anyone who is retired or not working full-time is welcome to join.
See u3af.org.au or call 9770 1042 for details.