In 1993 a group of ten people paid one hundred dollars each to become Olympic Members and financed the beginning of the University of the Third Age Capri. Marje became president in 1995. In addition the role of Tutor Co-ordinator was carried out by her, and she taught Keyboard and Art. Marje was a dynamo working hard to find and increase the number of tutors and educational subjects. She also arranged for audit lectures at Griffith University for U3A students and a series of special lectures for U3A students on a monthly basis for the three coastal branches.
Marje’s varied life in commerce and social welfare made her an efficient and astute person with practical knowledge, well able to negotiate on behalf of U3A. After a notice to quit Capri rooms in January 2000, enrolments were arranged in a private home and our branch commenced at private homes of people who generously volunteered them and a newspaper appeal launched. Dr. Andrew Bode, Principal of Broadbeach State School offered study rooms and offices. Incorporation having been achieved in 1994, the name was changed to U3A Capri-Broadbeach Association Inc. Andrew Bode agreed to become Patron and the branch continued at Broadbeach State School until the Prep classes began. Marje began to look for other premises but her health necessitated her resignation. After a long and debilitating illness her demise in July 2010 was sadly felt by those who remember her enthusiasm and her powerhouse leadership. This branch owes a great deal to this most remarkable lady. |