Don’t miss Graeme Connors – Sharing a little of his life journey and his own ‘What next?’ moments. One of the highlights of the U3A Network Queensland State Conference in Mackay on 12 May 2027 will be a very special keynote presentation by one of Queensland’s most loved and respected singer-songwriters, Graeme Connors.

With a career spanning more than five decades, Graeme Connors has become an iconic voice of Queensland. His songs and stories celebrate our people, our landscapes and the experiences that shape our lives. His unique ability to combine music, humour, warmth and storytelling has earned him a loyal following across generations.

At the conference, Graeme will present a little of his own life story including his own what next moments – a thought-provoking and entertaining reflection on life, change, possibilities and looking forward to the next chapter.

The title itself is particularly relevant to the U3A philosophy. Retirement is not an ending; it can be the beginning of an exciting new stage filled with opportunities to learn, explore, contribute, connect and discover something new. Graeme invites us to consider the question of ‘What next?’ with curiosity, optimism and perhaps a little humour.

This promises to be more than a keynote presentation. It will be an opportunity to sit back and hear the stories of an extraordinary Queensland performer, his music, his career and perhaps reflect on our own ‘What next?’, as you travel A Little Further North with Graeme Connors.

Graeme Connors is coming to Mackay – and this is one conference session you won’t want to miss! Join us on 12 May 2027 and be inspired, entertained and reminded that there is always something wonderful waiting for us to discover next.

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President Muriel Kilcullen and members of U3A Mackay encourage delegates and visitors to their tropical paradise to stay longer in Mackay and enjoy the many attractions of this picturesque and vibrant part of Queensland’s Coral Sea Coast.

Here are just some of the many attractions of the region.

Once the macropods retreat to the bush, swap the sand for city in Mackay’s CBD. This town isn’t just another coastal stop – it’s a blend of art deco beauty, street art, and restaurant menus fuelled by the produce-rich region.

If you’re craving nature, point your wheels west to Eungella National Park, a rainforest haven sitting high above the Pioneer Valley. The name itself means ‘land in the clouds’ and once you’re up there, you’ll see why. Keep your eyes peeled at Broken River – it’s one of the best places in Australia to spot a platypus in the wild.

For a dose of waterfall magic, hit Finch Hatton Gorge. Want a different perspective? Zip-line through the rainforest canopy for an adrenaline rush with a view.

When it’s time to head back, cruise through the Pioneer Valley’s sugarcane fields (head further south to Sarina Sugar Shed if you want to learn more about the sugar cane production in the region) and make pit stops in historic towns like Marian, Mirani, Pinnacle, Finch Hatton, and Eungella for a cold drink or a country bakery treat.

If fishing is your game, Mackay Isaac is the place to play. The fish are always biting here – whether you’re reeling in barramundi inland or chasing big catches off the coast. Top fishing spots include Seaforth, Cape Hillsborough, Eungella Dam, Kinchant Dam, and Constants Creek. Pack your rod and reel… or regret it later.

Want to know more about what to do in Mackay? Swing by a Visitor Information Centre for the inside scoop from the locals who know it best.

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U3A Mackay has secured discounted accommodation packages with Oceans International Hotel, also the venue for the two days of the conference.

Oceans International is Ocean offers well appointed rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms and garden views. Each room includes a work desk, TV, and free WiFi. Guests can enjoy a sauna, terrace, and balcony. The modern, family-friendly restaurant serves Australian cuisine with vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. The bar offers cocktails and live music. Located 2 km from Mackay Airport, the hotel is a short walk from Far Beach and close to BB Print Stadium Mackay. Nearby attractions include Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre and Mackay Marina.

View and download the accommodation packages here.

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U3A Mackay has been announced as host for the U3A Network State Conference 2027 to be held in the tropical city of Mackay on the Coral Sea Coast of Queensland. Theme for the conference is ‘A Little Further North’.

President Muriel Kilcullen said that U3A Mackay are building the 2027 conference around three key experiences: Learn, Share, and Connect. Their goals are that every delegate will: learn something, contribute or share something, take back useful things for their own U3A group, and, most importantly, network, engage, and establish connections across U3As.​

Photo: President Muriel Kilcullen, Judy Morris and Lyn Geraghty announce U3A Mackay as hosts for the 2027 U3A State Conference.

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U3A Sunshine Coast have prepared a conference programme that combines traditional subjects on healthy ageing and membership growth with modern considerations in the use of community engagement in promoting U3A membership along with exciting opportunities that scientific research offers to older Australians to live longer, healthier lives. The social get-togethers will also be something special.

In keeping with the conference theme, ‘Celebrating 40 Years of U3A in Queensland’, we are honoured to welcome the Governor of Queensland, Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM to mark this important milestone for the U3A movement in Queensland and to officially open the two-day conference.

The conference also marks the end of tenure as President U3A Network Queensland for Rhonda Weston AM who will hand over to a new president at the Annual General Meeting.

Master of Ceremonies for the conference will be Mr Llew Paulger, a previous Executive Principal of Kelvin Grove College, known for his engaging personality and as an effective communicator.

Some highlights of the conference will include:

• Presence of the Governor of Queensland
• Reflections on 40 years of U3A by Network President Rhonda Weston AM
• Keynote address by UniSC Vice Chancellor and President Professor Helen Bartlett, distinguished academic leader and gerontologist
• Anniversaries of U3A founding U3As in Queensland: U3A Sunshine Coast and U3A Brisbane along with the 30-year anniversary of the University of the Sunshine Coast
• Excellent lineup of guest speakers including Rob Brough, media personality and rugby league coach
• Not to be missed official Network Queensland Dinner featuring three-course fine dining and Spencer Howson as after dinner speaker
• Latest scientific research on healthy ageing from UniSC’s Thompson Institute and its Clinical Trials Unit
• Navigating the Financial Aspects of Residential Aged Care under the Aged Care Act 2024
• Panel discussion and Q&A with Network Queensland Management Committee members
• Closing address by Professor Victoria Trainer will focus on ‘Ageing Today, Offering new Solutions to Pressing Issues’.

As an overview of the conference proceedings, the following notes describe how the conference will unfold over the three days.

Meet & Greet Welcome Function:
Drinks, Canapés and Chats at The Bower Tree with entertainment by ‘Sam and Gemma’

Conference Day 1 – Morning:

• Address by the Governor on contribution of the U3A movement in Queensland to the social framework of seniors statewide.
• Welcome address by Network President Rhonda Weston AM on lived experience of U3A locally, nationally and internationally.
• Keynote address by Professor Helen Bartlett on the reasons U3A is important to the healthy ageing paradigm and as a valuable partner with UniSC
• Neill Gillett on the importance of engagement with Volunteering Queensland in filling gaps in the volunteer cohort of U3As.
• Katie Spence of Sage Care Advice on navigating the financial aspects of Residential Aged Care under the Aged Care Act 2024.
• Professor Alex Elibank Murray on animal research in Conservation, Climate Change Adaptation, Koala Research and Megafauna Protection.

Conference Day 1 – Afternoon:

• Rob Brough on ‘How Fabulous is our Third Age’.
• Guitarists and Singers from U3A musical interlude.
• Alain Brunet from The Thompson Institute on Brain Research, Mental Health & Wellbeing and how we can make the most of our later years.
• Clinical Trials Unit of UniSC explaining the introduction of advanced treatments and therapies into later life.

Official Network Dinner:
Featuring three-course fine dining and Spencer Howson as after dinner speaker. View Menu

Conference Day 2:

• Panel Discussion and Q&A involving the current Network committee on membership growth, governance, technology, opportunities and challenges.
• Network AGM, announcement of the 2027 host and presentation by the U3A host.
• Kenzo Sugawara, an expert in social media and communication, on how social media can play an important part in communications and marketing local U3As.
• Closing Address by Professor Victoria Trainer on ‘Ageing Today, Offering new Solutions to Pressing Issues’.

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UniSc ‘Auditorium’, venue for the U3A Network Conference

This year’s U3A Network State Conference to be staged on the Sunshine Coast 12 -14 May has gained support from some great sponsors who are providing financial help to ensure the conference is an excellent celebration of 40 years of U3A in Queensland.

So far, the following community minded organisations have committed their support to the conference:

Gold Sponsors:

• Westfund Health Insurance
• Private Portfolio Strategies
• Sage Care Advice
• University of the Sunshine Coast

Silver Sponsors:

• Great Value Holidays

President of the host U3A Mike Loftus, said he congratulated the conference sponsors on their commitment to supporting U3A in its 40th year in Queensland.

“This financial and community support helps our U3A stage a memorable conference celebrating an important milestone for the U3A movement in Queensland,” he said.

“I would also mention that a great supporter of U3A, in the University of the Sunshine Coast, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year and we are grateful for the support that the university has provided to U3A Sunshine Coast over those three decades.

For more information about the conference please visit the Conference 2026 page here.

Registrations for the conference are now open. Please register here.

Venue for the conference social events, ‘The Bower Tree, Sippy Downs.

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Registrations are now OPEN for the U3A Network Queensland State Conference to be hosted by U3A Sunshine Coast 12 – 14 May 2026.

U3A Sunshine warmly invites U3A delegates from across Queensland to this year’s conference, celebrating the 40th anniversary of U3A in Queensland  and promising an inspiring event with an impressive lineup of great speakers and activities.

Theme for the conference is ‘Celebrating 40 years of Lifelong Learning’.

Register for Conference 2026 here.

“The U3A Network State Conference is coming to the Sunshine Coast,” said President Mike Loftus. “We begin the celebrations of 40 years of U3A in Queensland on Tuesday 12th May, followed by two days of inspiring conference sessions on Wednesday and Thursday. Indulge in a delightful Conference dinner on the Wednesday night.

“We warmly invite U3A delegates and members from U3As across Queensland to join with us to celebrate four decades of U3A in Queensland.”

We eagerly anticipate welcoming you to this exceptional event and sharing the many delights of the Sunshine Coast with members from other parts of Queensland.”

“This coastal haven, renowned for its pristine beaches, lush national parks, and abundant wildlife, provides the perfect backdrop for meaningful discussions and collaboration.”

The two-day conference will be held on the University of the Sunshine Coast campus that coincidently celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. The social events will be held at the nearby Bower Tree RSL venue known for its luxurious decor and excellent cuisine.

Beyond the engaging conference program, share and enjoy everything the Sunshine Coast has to offer encompassing beach resorts, surf spots and rural hinterland. It stretches from Caloundra north to the Cooloola section of the Great Sandy National Park.

Find your Sunshine Coast moment here.

Save the Conference Dates:

• Pre-conference welcome ‘Meet & Greet’ event evening of Tuesday 12 May
• Conference Day 1 Wednesday 13 May
• Official U3A Network Dinner evening of Wednesday 13 May
• Conference Day 2 and U3A Network Queensland AGM on Thursday 14 May

Regular updates on conference news and activities will be published on the conference website here.

Above: The Auditorium on UniSC Campus, venue for the two-day conference.

Above: The Bower Tree RSL Club, venue for the conference social events.

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Westfund Health Insurance has shown its support for seniors on the Sunshine Coast and elsewhere by becoming the first Gold Sponsor for the U3A Network Queensland State Conference to be held on the Sunshine Coast 12 -14 May 2026.

U3A Sunshine Coast President Mike Loftus said it was particularly pleasing to have Westfund as a major sponsor of next year’s State Conference. “Westfund is an award-winning, not-for-profit, member-owned Australian private health insurance fund with a history spanning over 140 years. The company is known for focusing on the health and wellbeing of regional communities and currently serves over 135,000 members across the country.”

As a not-for-profit organisation, Westfund focuses on keeping premiums low and returning benefits to its members. The health fund offers a range of hospital and extras cover policies for singles, couples, and families, with options to combine them. All policies include unlimited emergency ambulance cover. Members can reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs for medical procedures by choosing doctors and specialists who participate in the Access Gap Scheme.

More information about Westfund and its health insurance offers are detailed on their website here.

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The U3A Sunshine Coast conference planning team for the U3A Network State Conference 2026 have secured an allocation of accommodation rooms with Holiday Inn Express Maroochydore.

Accommodation is for 2 nights arriving 12 May and departing 14 May. One night stays are not available from this allocation.

Two room options are available:
10 x Twin rooms at a cost of $220 per night, which includes a buffet breakfast for 2 people
10 x Queen bed rooms at a cost of $170 per night, which includes a buffet breakfast for 1 person (based on single room occupancy).

The hotel is located at 42 First Avenue & Fairway Drive Maroochydore.

Advantages of this location for conference attendees are:

• Short walk to many cafes and restaurants and the major shopping centre ‘Sunshine Plaza’
• Short walk to the Maroochydore beach
• Rooftop swimming pool
• Proximity to public transport
• Car parking nearby

To get to the conference venue at the University of the Sunshine Coast will take you 20 minutes by car or by Translink # 616 bus from the Maroochydore bus station, approx. 25 minutes.

How to book your accommodation:

Important: Please email groups@connecthospitality.com and quote the booking code #M17 requesting a booking from our conference allocation. You will receive a reply with a link to an online booking form for all of your details and payment.

All accommodation arrangements will be between you and the Holiday Inn Express Maroochydore (external to U3A).

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