January at Horsham U3A is a fresh start to the year and a chance to shine a light on some important causes and simple ways we can support them together.
Hello January
January often feels like a pause between the busy Christmas period and the start of term, but it is also full of awareness campaigns that fit beautifully with U3A values: learning, community and looking after one another. This month we are highlighting Blood Donor Month, Hobby Month, Braille Literacy Month, Hot Tea Month and Cervical Cancer Awareness.
Blood DonOR MONTH
January is traditionally a difficult time for blood stocks, with regular donors away or busy and hospitals still needing supply. If you are eligible, consider booking a donation or encouraging friends and family to do so. Even if you can’t donate yourself, simply sharing information about the need for donors or offering to drive someone to an appointment can make a real difference.
Where you can donate
Dixon Drive, near the Angling Club.
https://www.lifeblood.com.au/donor-centre/vic/horsham-mobile-donor-centre
Hobby Month
Hobby Month is perfectly suited to Horsham U3A. Our courses and activity groups give members the chance to try something new or return to a long‑forgotten interest. January is a great time to browse the 2026 Course Guide, pick up a fresh hobby, or invite someone new to come along and learn with you. A new craft, language, history group or walking program might be exactly the spark needed to start the year well.
You can download the new 2026 Course Guide below.
Braille literacy Month
Braille Literacy Month reminds us how vital accessible reading is for people who are blind or vision‑impaired. Take a moment to learn a little about braille, notice where it appears around town, or explore audio and large‑print books in your own reading life. Supporting organisations that provide accessible materials and services helps ensure everyone can continue to enjoy learning throughout life.
hot tea Month
Hot Tea Month may sound light‑hearted, but a shared cuppa is often where friendships are made and worries are eased. At Horsham U3A, tea breaks are part of the glue that holds our groups together. This January, you might celebrate by trying a new blend, inviting someone for a chat over a mug, or bringing a thermos to your first class of the year.
Cervical Cancer Awareness
January is also a key time for cervical cancer awareness, encouraging women to keep up‑to‑date with cervical screening tests and HPV vaccination where recommended. Reminding daughters, granddaughters and friends to book their check‑ups can be a life‑saving conversation. Reliable information is available through national cancer councils and local health services.
Flower of the Month – Hibbertia
Our Australian flower for January is the Hibbertia, sometimes called the guinea flower, with its bright yellow petals and hardy nature. It is a cheerful reminder of resilience in summer heat and a fitting symbol for the causes we are supporting this month—quiet, steady efforts that brighten lives.
As we step into 2026, Horsham U3A invites members to enjoy the sunshine, share a cup of tea, explore new hobbies and keep these January awareness causes in mind.