Northern Illawarra U3A (University of the Third Age) hosted the U3A Illawarra Cluster Mini Conference on October 15, involving U3A branches in Wollongong, Central Illawarra, Shellharbour, Kiama and the Southern Highlands.

It was the fifth mini conference since the U3A groups got together in Warilla.

U3A branches run their own community education and social activities.

Northern Illawarra U3A publicity officer Joan Fleming said the conference included a discussion about the future of U3As, led by NSW U3A secretary Jean de Hosson.

The social and educational program included Paul Wand speaking about Joice NanKivell Loch MBE, one of Australia's most decorated women who worked with refugees in Poland, Greece and Romania after World War I and II.

Entertainment was provided by the Illawarra U3A choir, Northern Illawarra U3A drama club, and a poetry reading from Lawrence Bond of Wollongong U3A.

Ms Fleming said members discussed promoting U3A to residents of IRT villages and providing interesting speakers.

The Northern Illawarra branch meets at 9.30am on Wednesdays at Thirroul Community Centre, followed by the film society at 12.30pm.

Call 4267 3161 or go to northernillawarra.u3anet.org.au for more details.