Gallery Visits Melbourne

Practice Magic 2 at Palace Como

90s iconic come see this great girls film and enjoy some laughs together. Happy to negotiate dates and time

Day trip to Shepparton: Archibald Prize & Facing Modernity private guided tour

Ballarat: Markets, Trams, World Press Photo & a Night at the Observatory

Join me for a big, easy-going day out in Ballarat, finishing under the stars at the historic Ballarat Municipal Observatory. We'll ride the V/Line up together in the morning, wander a farmers market, jump aboard 100-year-old trams, take in the powerful World Press Photo exhibition, and end the night stargazing through the observatory's telescopes before catching the train home. We'll meet at Southern Cross Station, travel up as a group, and spend the day moving between spots by foot and local bus. It's a full day — roughly 8:45am to nearly 11pm — so come ready for a fun, packed itinerary rather than a quiet one. A few of today's stops are run by other organisations, and we're just an independent social group heading along together. A Meetup RSVP is not a ticket, so please book or pay for the things that need it (details below). Solo attendees are very welcome — this kind of day is a great, low-pressure way to meet people. **Who this is for** * Anyone who enjoys a full day out with a mix of markets, history, photography and astronomy. * People happy to walk a fair bit and hop on and off local buses over the day. * Solo-goers welcome — you'll have the whole group to chat with. * No special fitness needed, but there's a good amount of walking, some of it after dark at the end. **Links** * Meetup start point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/aT7fyDYBkQSVVcpW8 * Ballarat Farmers Market: https://ballaratmarkets.com.au/ * Ballarat Tramway Museum (tickets): https://btm.org.au/ * Ballarat Tramway Museum video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5b3IWVcXFs * World Press Photo (via Art Gallery of Ballarat): https://www.artgalleryofballarat.com.au/explore/exhibitions/world-press-photo * World Press Photo 2026 video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRc8ZsRHeJo * Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum: https://ballaratobservatory.org.au/ * Observatory booking: https://ballaratobservatory.org.au/event/term-3-evenings-july-25th-to-september-26th-2026/ **Timeline** * 8:45am – Meet at the V/Line Tickets and Information window at Southern Cross and say hello * 8:55am – Head to the platform together * 9:15am – V/Line departs for Wendouree * 10:51am – Arrive at Wendouree Station * 10:55am – Walk over to the Ballarat Farmers Market (North Gardens Reserve, roughly 15–20 minutes) * 11:15am – Explore the market and grab some lunch * 12:30pm – Short walk to the Ballarat Tramway Museum nearby * 12:45pm – Visit the Tramway Museum and enjoy the tram rides * 2:30pm – Walk to the bus stop * 2:35pm – Catch bus 26 towards the city centre * 3:15pm – World Press Photo at the Ballarat Mining Exchange * 4:45pm – Head back to the bus stop * 5:10pm – Catch bus 23 towards the observatory (Mount Pleasant) * \~5:45pm – Arrive near the observatory * 6:00pm – Observatory evening session begins * 8:00pm – Session ends * 8:10pm – Walk to the bus stop (about 1km / 15 minutes) * 8:36pm – Catch the bus towards Ballarat Station * 8:45pm – Arrive at Ballarat Station * 9:24pm – V/Line departs for Melbourne (this is the last train of the night) * 10:52pm – Arrive at Southern Cross Station — meetup ends **Tickets / cost** A few separate things to sort out, all paid directly to each place: * Trains and local buses: you'll need a Myki (tap on and off). The Ballarat line and Ballarat's buses are Myki-enabled, and weekend travel is covered by a daily fare cap — check current fares when you plan. * Ballarat Farmers Market: free to enter; bring some cash for food and stalls. * Ballarat Tramway Museum: the museum currently lists $15 adult and $13 concession, with the tram ride included. Pay on the day. * World Press Photo: free entry. * Ballarat Municipal Observatory: **booking is essential and this is the key thing to book yourself.** The observatory currently lists $35 adult and $25 concession. Book your own spot via the observatory's Term 3 Evenings page (link above). The session needs a minimum of 4 people to run, so please book early. An RSVP here does not include observatory entry. **Transport** We're doing this whole day car-free by V/Line and local bus, so a Myki is essential. If you're driving to Southern Cross instead, allow time to park before 8:45am. The final leg of the night relies on a single bus back to Ballarat Station to catch the 9:24pm train — since that's the last Melbourne-bound train of the night, it's worth checking the bus time on the PTV app on the day, and having a rideshare as a backup just in case. **Bring** * A Myki with enough balance for the day * Cash for the market and lunch * Money/card for the tramway museum and your observatory booking confirmation * A warm jacket — Ballarat evenings get cold, and we'll be outside at the observatory * Comfortable walking shoes * A water bottle and any snacks **Expect** * Difficulty: easy but long — a full day with a fair bit of walking * Pace: relaxed but steady; we have trains and buses to catch * Vibe: friendly, curious and social * Group style: we move between stops together and look out for each other **Important notes** * This is a casual social meetup arranged so we can head along together. It isn't run by, affiliated with, or endorsed by the Ballarat Farmers Market, Ballarat Tramway Museum, the Art Gallery of Ballarat / World Press Photo, or the Ballarat Municipal Observatory. Please book or pay for your own entry directly with each; an RSVP here isn't a ticket or guaranteed entry. * Heads up on the exhibition venue: the Art Gallery of Ballarat is closed for building works, so World Press Photo is showing at the **Ballarat Mining Exchange** in the city centre. Entry is free. * The observatory session depends on the weather. If it's cloudy, stargazing and telescope viewing are replaced with a virtual sky tour, and the session still runs. * The day involves a lot of walking and some late-evening travel. Please take part within your own ability, follow all venue and staff instructions, and look after your own safety and wellbeing on the day. * If your plans change, please update your RSVP so numbers stay clear for everyone. **Other info** We're at the mercy of public transport timings, so let's keep an eye on the time at each stop and stick together, especially for that last train home.

Collection and Installation Days - 2026 Exhibition 🖼️✨

‼️ THIS EVENT IS FOR THE MEMBERS DROPPING OFF THEIR ARTWORKS FOR THE EXHIBITION ‼️ From the 15-17th of September we will be doing the collection and installation of the artworks for the exhibition. If you are a participant please RSVP so we know what day to expect you to deliver your artworks. Please let us know when you have arrived so we can let you in 🙏 Volunteers are welcome to join, please message me to ask about volunteering to help set things up 🖼️✨

Secular Party Victorian Division Meeting

Monthly meeting for the Victorian Division of the Secular Party of Australia. We welcome anybody who is interested in a secular Australia. (The meeting officially starts at 7:30, with dinner prior from 6:30). http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/f/3/c/600_306312092.jpeg

(Co-hosts required) 🎨 Street Art Photo Walk & Conversation - Fitzroy

***\*\*Interested in co-hosting this event? Message Sarah Rus to learn more\*\*\**** Join us at 4:30pm for a relaxed street art walk through Fitzroy, exploring laneways, murals and hidden creative spots while conversation unfolds naturally along the way. **Where to meet:** out the back of 322 Brusbwick Street - look for the group on the footpath. We start walking at 4:45pm sharp. If you love photography, bring your camera or smartphone (charged) to snap some fun photos along the way. We often pose in front of our favourite artworks. Be prepared to be silly with us 🤪 (optional, of course.) This event is about moving at a comfortable pace, noticing what's around us, and letting conversation unfold organically as we walk. There's no need for art knowledge - curiosity is more than enough. The walk has a light structure to help things flow, but nothing rigid. You're welcome to chat as much or as little as you like, and enjoy the experience your own way. Running late? Use the map in the photos to catch us up, and keep an eye on the group as we move between laneways. **Recommended:** download the [Street Art Cities](https://streetartcities.com/) app, which we'll use to hunt down the art. After the walk (around 6pm) you're welcome to stay on for dinner nearby - completely optional. Head back to where we started and choose between: * Hecho En Mexico, 326 Brunswick Street * Yeshi Ethiopian Restaurant, 328 Brunswick Street * Tawooq Fitzroy Lebanese, 329 Brunswick Street Have a chat on the walk and decide together where you'd like to eat. Best suited to adults who are **young-at-heart** and enjoy exploring the city, being outdoors and connecting through shared experiences. Most of our members are somewhere between 25 and 50. Strictly 18+. Sometimes the day doesn't go entirely to plan - a laneway is closed, the group spreads out, the weather turns. That's part of it. Come as you are, keep an eye on the plan, and enjoy what's in front of you. Conversation's an invitation here, never an obligation. Can't wait to see who shows up. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **HOST RESOURCES:** [https://mastercoaches.net/good-conversation-club-questions.pdf](https://mastercoaches.net/good-conversation-club-questions.pdf) Print double sided. Cut up cards. Hand out at start of event. Guide people to introduce themselves to other guests eg eg talk to someone wearing the same colour or someone who is similar height.

Trip to the Victorian Police Museum

Artsy Hangout 👩‍🎨🌲✨

Grab your art supplies and a picnic blanket or camp chair and let’s get together for an artsy hangout on the grass outside Balam Balam Place 👩‍🎨 all kinds of artists and skill levels are welcome to join! If you aren’t sure what to create the club has a weekly theme, just ask me what the prompt is! ☕️ The Home Economics cafe is at the entrance to the main building if you want to grab a drink or sit inside the cafe area ☔️ If there is rain this event will either be moved to Brunswick Library or cancelled ⚠️IMPORTANT⚠️ Please do not attend if you are sick. Keep everyone safe by staying home if you are unwell 😷 —————————————————— If you RSVP and don’t show up to this event your name will be put onto a list of members to kick from the group if it happens multiple times! 📝

Artsy Afternoon @ O3Space ✨

Join us for a chill artsy afternoon, bring any art supplies you like 👩‍🎨🎨📝✨ Access to O3Space requires you to have the minimum ( FREE! ) membership that you sign up for when you download their app. Simply download the O3Space app, create a profile and use the QR code at the gate to enter/exit the building. The gate is located inside the tram on the right side of the cafe ☕️🚊 The free membership allows you in the building for up to 3 hours per week, if you go over they might charge you so make sure to use the QR code on your way out!! There is a timer countdown in the app so you know how long you have been there ⏰

Fad Gallery Happy Hour and great dance vibes!$8 Happy Hour $10 Fireballs!

🎉 Join Us at FAD Gallery Bar! Welcome- Anita will be out fabulous host again🥂 Looking for a fun, easygoing way to meet new people and kick off your weekend? Come hang out with us at FAD Gallery Bar in the heart of Melbourne CBD! 🎨 About the Venue: FAD is an iconic, laneway bar with a unique artistic vibe — think comfy couches, art on the walls, cool music, and that classic Melbourne laneway feel. 🍻 Happy Hour: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM Hosted from 6:00 but feel free to rock up early for Happy Hour as the venue staff are friendly and there are always some early attenders. Enjoy great drink specials during happy hour and very cheap drinks after that — perfect for chatting, chilling, and making new friends. Feeling hungry? Fad has delicious pies and pasties 👋 No need to know anyone — come as you are! This is a relaxed, welcoming meetup where everyone’s there to have fun, make connections, and enjoy good drinks and great company. 💃 Good Vibes & Dancing: Later in the night the bar transforms into a dance-friendly space with DJs and groovy tunes — whether you want to boogie or just hang out, it’s a great crowd and no one’s a stranger here!

Wings & Wild Things of Banyule: Wildlife & Bird Photography

**WEATHER DEPENDENCY & UPDATES** This event is strictly weather dependent. Please check the event page on **Friday 18/9** for a final update on conditions and confirmation. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Join us for a wildlife and bird photography session at Banyule Flats Reserve, a 46.47-hectare haven famous for inspiring Heidelberg School artists. Home to over 153 bird species alongside kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and wallabies, it’s an ideal spot to capture the vibrant nature along the Yarra River and Banyule Swamp. **Schedule** 8.30am - Meet at [Banyule Flats Reserve Car Park ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SpoVRfwEASm13Jd26)(off Somerset Drive, Viewbank) [googlemap link ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SpoVRfwEASm13Jd26) (TBC the trail route) 11.30am - Meet for Brunch - location TBC 12.30pm - Meetup ends **What to Bring:** * Your camera and lens (a telephoto lens is highly recommended, and a wider lens can be useful for habitat shots) * Tripod (optional but can be helpful for stability, especially with longer lenses) * Comfortable and quiet walking shoes suitable for varied terrain * Water and snacks * Appropriate clothing for the weather and potentially muddy conditions * Your respect for nature and a keen eye for detail! Target Birds (we may or may not find): **Ducks & Grebes:** Pacific Black Duck, Chestnut Teal, Pink-eared Duck, Musk Duck, and Hoary-headed / Australasian Grebes. **Kingfishers:** Sacred Kingfisher and Azure Kingfisher **Parrots & Honeyeaters:** Red-rumped Parrot, Australian King-Parrot, Eastern & Crimson Rosellas, Rainbow & Musk Lorikeets, Gang-gang Cockatoo. **Important Notes:** * We will prioritise the well-being of all wildlife and maintain a respectful distance at all times. * Please be mindful of noise and movement to avoid disturbing potential subjects. By signing up and attending this event, you and your guest agree to the above disclosures and the [MEETUP GUIDELINES](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Tlklt2nqT-B8RnDaxvmZv8vsGXy3w8rVpiArNf_-f8/edit?tab=t.0) Annie and Andrew

Milkyway in Regional Victoria - One Solo Photo

Please note that **this event is not open for photographers** (no option to bring Camera/GoPro or tripod). We will be taking photos of people with the Milkyway. \*\* Trybooking tickets will be posted once this event is confirmed based on the weather forecast. The event is usually only confirmed a day in advance \*\* We will scan Trybooking tickets at the meeting point. Please note that Trybooking tickets will only be refunded if the event is moved or cancelled. Trybooking Tickets are non-refundable. There is no option to also transfer the ticket to a new date. Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid" status on your RSVP**. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. **Meeting Point**: Let's meet in the Corner of Spencer Street and Bourke Street (Station Side - Near the steps) at 7:10 PM and head to regional VIC. Driving to the destination is not an option for any of our stargazing events. We should be back in the CBD around 11:45 PM. **Meeting Point Photo**: [[[https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2)](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2)](https://bit.ly/2SkyVL2) \*\* Please make sure you bring your Myki. Please ensure that it has atleast $11.40 or have myki Zone 1/2 pass. Please ensure that your myki money is added before coming to the meeting point. \*\* Please carry a warm jacket. Please carry takeaway dinner as there are no food options at the destination. Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 - Early Bird, $25 - Regular Transport: Myki Money: $11.40 If you have Myki Zone 1/2 Pass: $0 Concession: $5.70 Taxi: $50 (In an event where Vline services are cancelled ) Photos: All the images will be uploaded to our Facebook Group (Explore Melbourne) - [https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb ](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) and meetup. I take one solo photo for everyone with the Milkyway. These events are not aimed at photographers. Location: For the safety of people attending the event and flexibility to change location at the last minute based on the weather forecast, we will only share the location details with people at the meeting point. For the safety of people attending future events, please do not share the Milkyway location with anyone. Also, please do not tag the location when sharing photos on Social Media. The Milky Way Galaxy is one of the most interesting naked eye sights in the night sky. We live under light-polluted skies, and to see a glimpse of the Milkyway, we need to travel outside the city. Many Solo and some group photos from previous events: [https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=1F0fE1-s4mkkNIi1oATIVBE3I5riDTRO3](https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=1F0fE1-s4mkkNIi1oATIVBE3I5riDTRO3) Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia. We have seven simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ **Not a dating group!** – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 **No phone numbers**, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please **don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups**. 🔞 Our events are only **open to people aged 18 and older**. 📢 Please **do not advertise other events or groups**. 😅 **Don’t be a social octopus!** – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We **don't allow carpooling** due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 **No sales pitches!** – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)