Hi everyone! 👋 Due to some hiccups with our regular library venue this week, we'll be hosting our meetup at (our potential new home) Balam Balam Place, in Brunswick. Things will run as they always have, we'll just be in a sparkly new space!✨
NOTE: The following 2 fortnightly meetups (June 6th + 20th) will return to being at Bargoonga Nganjin, North Fitzroy Library - but may eventually transition over to BBP.
HOW TO GET THERE:
Balam Balam Place is a new creative/community precinct in the heart of Brunswick, on the corner of Saxon and Phoenix St, just off Sydney Rd!
Accessible by the number 19 tram or by train (Upfield line), Brunswick station is just a short walk (approx. 5 min) away. Jewell station is also closeby (less than 10 mins walk)
There is also Woolworths (and some parking) next door, and plenty of restaraunts and bars nearby if you wish you continue hanging out after the meetup.
HOW TO FIND US:
We will be on Level 2, Room 201, but one of our hosts will be waiting outside the building (on the Saxon St side) to meet you, just in case!
Weather permitting, some of the group may wish to move outdoors to mingle in the fresh air. Feel free to move between spaces as needed.
There are also accessible bathrooms on the floor, and a communal kitchen on Level 1 to make yourself a tea or coffee or to grab a snack!
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Our fortnightly autistic social meetups are where we come together through shared experiences, meaningful discussions, and a strong sense of belonging within the autistic community.
Whether you're seeking connection with others on a similar journey or interested in exploring diverse perspectives within our lived experiences, these gatherings are an exclusively autistic-safe space.
You're warmly invited to build friendships, share insights, and enjoy the company of fellow autistics in a supportive social environment.
Although our meetup is co-hosted by some of our autistic members, there is no formal facilitation; everyone is encouraged to contribute as they are able to, in shaping a positive meetup experience together, while respecting differing opinions and individual needs.
See you there! ♥
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- MEETUP RULES - Please read -
- Treat everyone with kindness, respect and compassion. Rudeness, discrimination, hostility, or disruptive behavior during meetups will not be tolerated.
- Our group is about making connections and enjoying shared time among fellow autistic folk. Keep interactions positive, supportive and lighthearted.
- We are all responsible for our own comfort and feelings. If a topic feels uncomfortable, feel free to take a break, self soothe and regulate as needed.
- Respect others' privacy and do not share personal details about attendees outside of the group.
- We are a social group, not a support group. Not a substitute for therapy or counselling. If you need advice or a space to work through personal struggles, please reach out to a qualified health professional.
- Please listen to the co-hosts, even if you disagree. We make decisions for the the benefit of the entire group. If you have concerns, you may discuss this respectfully, via Meetup private message.
- We have a zero tolerance policy for drugs, violence, racism, sexism, transphobia, ableism, and homophobia.
- Please stay home if you are sick or feeling unwell (see further safety guidelines at the very end of the event description)
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Important Note: Once the event reaches the capacity of 45 RSVPs, Meetup may prompt you to pay to join the waitlist. Please know this is entirely a Meetup platform feature and not connected to our group. We are a free Meetup and will never charge for attendance. You do not need to pay anything to join our events.
If RSVPs are full, feel free to join the waitlist. When people cancel or un-RSVP (which often happens, even on the day of the event), you’ll automatically be moved up the queue and added as "attending." Keep an eye on your status, as this often happens at the last minute.
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- COVID & Sickness Safety Guidelines -
Many in our community are at higher risk of severe illness due to disabilities, chronic conditions, or compromised immune systems. To keep our events safe and accessible for everyone, please follow these guidelines:
- If you’re sick or feel unwell in any way, please stay home
- If you’ve been sick in the past 1-1.5 weeks, take a Covid/Flu/RSV test to confirm you’re no longer contagious before attending. Even if you feel better, you may still be infectious.
- If you've been in close contact with someone who is sick, consider testing or skipping the even to keep others safe
- Masks are encouraged, especially in indoor spaces or when distancing isn’t possible.
- Hand sanitizer will be available, please use it upon arrival and as needed.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue, and wash your hands afterwards
- If someone asks for space, please respect their request.
- If you develop symptoms after attending an event, notify an organizer
By following these guidelines, we help keep our events safe, welcoming, and accessible for all. Thank you for looking out for each other!
