In this episode, hosts Julia and Jan sit down with Don, U3A Hastings’ Current Affairs Leader, for a lively and thought-provoking conversation about what’s shaping our world, from local headlines to global shifts.

Together, they explore how staying informed keeps the mind sharp and the community connected.

Tune in to hear why lifelong learning and open dialogue are at the heart of what makes Hastings U3A thrive.

🎙️ Recorded at Radio Western Port — where community voices come alive.

In this heartfelt episode of Inspired to Soar with Hannah, we sit down with Linda Perrin — a woman whose story redefines resilience, compassion, and courage.

From leaving home at just 14 to turning her life around, fostering children for over 36 years, and dedicating herself to community service through Lifegate, Fusion, and Orange Sky — Linda’s life is a living testament to the healing power of kindness.

Together, Hannah and Linda explore how pain can be transformed into purpose, how love can heal what’s been broken, and why community matters more than ever.

🎙️ Inspired to Soar with Hannah — where real stories spark real change.

💛 Hosted by: Hannah Swinnerton

🎧 Guest: Linda Perrin

📍 Listen. Reflect. Rise.

Episode #7 – Finding a Voice in a New Country

This week on Anita’s Community Catch-Up, Anita sits down with one of her English students, Walter , or Valter if you’ve got the right accent!

Born in Argentina and raised in Germany, Walter spent the last ten years living in Europe before deciding to swap cold winters for Aussie sunshine. He shares what brought him and his partner (and beloved dog!) to Australia, what made him decide to improve his English, and how his sessions at Advanced Community College have helped him feel more confident and connected in his new home.

We also hear what’s next for Walter as he builds a life under the southern sun.

🎙️ Tune in for a warm, funny, and honest chat about language, courage, and finding community far from home.

Episode #3 — Joan’s Story: Music, Memory & Finding Help at Home

In this heart-warming episode of The Wrinkle Report, Lisa sits down with Joan — a proud member of the Mark & Sylvie’s Home Care family.

Joan shares her remarkable journey as a lifelong piano player and singer, her love for music, and the lessons she’s learned through loss, resilience, and reaching out for support.

After losing her husband, Joan discovered the strength in acknowledging she needed a little help at home , a decision that led her to the caring hands of Mark & Sylvie’s Home Care.

🎹 Tune in to hear how music, community, and compassion can turn life’s hardest moments into harmony.

Episode #6 – Get Crafty with Roz!

In this episode of the U3A Hastings Podcast on Radio Western Port, hosts Julie and Jan sit down with Roz, our creative craft leader.

Discover how Roz found her passion for craft, the inspiring projects happening in the group, and her best tips for bringing more creativity into your daily life. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or simply curious, Roz’s energy and ideas will spark your imagination and maybe even your next handmade masterpiece.

🎙️ Hosted by Julie & Jan

🎨 Guest: Roz – U3A Hastings Creative Craft Leader

📍 Recorded at Radio Western Port

Music: "Dance Till Dawn - 1950s" by Pixabay Artist — via Pixabay

License: Pixabay Content License (Free for commercial use, no attribution required)

Link: https://pixabay.com/music/rock-and-roll-dance-till-dawn-1950s-15163/

Edits: Intro/outro trim and volume adjustment

Episode #47 – Turning Grief into Purpose with Wayne Holdsworth (SmackTalk)

In this deeply moving episode, Hannah sits down with Wayne Holdsworth, founder of SmackTalk, a movement born out of unimaginable loss. After the heartbreaking passing of his 17-year-old son, Mac, Wayne has channelled his grief into creating real change—breaking down the stigma around mental health, sparking life-saving conversations, and building communities that are better equipped to prevent suicide.

Together, Hannah and Wayne talk about:

Mac’s life, legacy, and generous spirit 💙

The raw realities of grief, self-blame, and healing

Why listening is one of the most powerful tools in suicide prevention

How SmackTalk is reframing “mental health” as “mental fitness”

What every parent, friend, and community member can do to support those at risk

This is a powerful conversation about love, resilience, and the courage it takes to speak out.

👉 If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14. You are not alone.

🎙️ U3A Hastings Podcast – Episode #5

Hosts Julie and Janet sit down with Alison, our talented watercolour tutor at Hastings U3A.

In this episode, Alison shares her passion for painting, the joy she finds in teaching, and her tips for helping beginners (and seasoned painters) bring watercolours to life. From inspiring class stories to practical creative advice, Alison’s warmth and experience will leave you feeling ready to pick up a brush.

👉 Tune in, get inspired, and discover how watercolour can spark your creativity.

🎙️ Inspired to Soar with Hannah – Episode #46 with Zoe McKenzie MP

In this episode, Hannah sits down with Zoe McKenzie, Federal Member for Flinders and Shadow Assistant Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Mental Health.

Zoe shares her journey from international trade and law into public service, and the lessons she’s carried into her leadership. She opens up about representing the Mornington Peninsula, her priorities in education and mental health, and how she balances the pressures of politics with staying connected to community.

From scuba diving on the Peninsula’s reefs to shaping national policies that impact young Australians, Zoe’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and heart.

✨ Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, community, and the importance of believing in yourself, no matter the path you take.

Episode 2 of The Wrinkle Report goes deeper than services, it’s about people, purpose, and what it really feels like to be cared for.

Lucie sits down with Kay and Martin from Mark & Sylvie’s Homecare to talk honestly about their work, their stories, and the invisible weight that lifts when the right support is in place.

It’s not just about homecare, it’s about dignity, connection, and the difference that one conversation can make.

🎧 Listen in, reflect, and maybe re-think what ageing well could look like for you or someone you love.