U3A Newsletter No 28

FRIDAY 31 JULY  at 10 am in the Catholic Church Hall

The Critical Role of Civil Society in shaping RSA's political future

by Dr Rachel Fischer (OUTA)

This presentation will explore how civil society strengthens South Africa's democracy by promoting accountability, transparency and public participation. Using OUTA's work and ParliMeter as a case study, it will examine how civic innovation and parliamentary monitoring can empower citizens, strengthen oversight and help shape a more accountable political future for South Africa.

SATURDAY 1 AUGUST – This will be an ADVENTURE - not a talk!

EXCURSION TO THE GANTOUW PASS led by MARTIN ETSEBETH

Following his fascinating presentation on the history of the notorious Gantouw Pass (adjacent to the current Sir Lowry’s Pass) which gave ox wagons access to the Overberg region, Martin has agreed to lead an excursion to the site.

Meet at the Catholic Church Hall at 08:45 for departure at 09:00. If possible, share transport with others to minimise traffic because parking near the site at the Steenbras Dam is limited. If necessary, we will also arrange sharing transport at the Hall.

The walk to the site is uphill but not inaccessible to persons with limb replacements. Nonetheless, a walking stick and sturdy shoes are recommended. Bring your own coffee and snacks and we will picnic at the crest with the wonderful view of the valley below.

The entire excursion will probably last 3½ - 4 hours. Should the weather prevent access to the site, we will advise by email beforehand.

No reservations necessary – all are welcome.

TUESDAY 4 AUGUST at 10 am in the Catholic Church Hall

BETTY’S BAY: BETWEEN MOUNTAIN AND SEA

by Skip Krige

Skip Krige will reflect on the Coffee Table Book, Betty’s Bay: Between Mountain and Sea which was published in December 2025. He was the coordinator of the Editorial Team. Some of the historical high-lights are the establishment of the Whaling Station at Stony Point in 1912, the Hangklip Beach Estates in 1937; also the role of World War 2 and the completion of Clarence Drive, the establishment of the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden in the 1950s and more.

FRIDAY 6 AUGUST at 10 am in the Catholic Church Hall

Australia’s Outback Railway

Narrated by Chris Tarrant  [DVD]

This fascinating documentary follows the legendary Ghan train on its 3,200 km journey from Adelaide to Darwin through the heart of the Australian Outback. Along the way, he explores the railway's remarkable engineering, its colourful history, touches on Aboriginal history and culture, the Afghan camel-train legacy, and the vast, spectacular landscapes that define Australia's Red Centre.

FOR FURTHER  INFORMATION / ENTERTAINMENT !

Looking for something special to do on Womans’ Day on Sunday 9^th AUGUST ???   please see notice below.

This will be be a lovely way to celebrate and show appreciation to the women in your life.

This talented performer is the daughter of one of our members and very well known in South Africa for her song-writing.