Community Events Melbourne

Art

Art has been part of human life for as long as we have tried to express, interpret, and give meaning to our experience. But what actually makes something art, and why do certain works move us while others do not? Our discussion will centre around the nature, meaning, and value of art. This session will be hosted by Daniel. We will meet at **Captain Melville** at **2pm** for a **2:15pm** start sharp. **Please note the new $5 mandatory donation entry fee** (cash or transfer on the day) to help with Meetup subscription costs. There is no prerequisite preparation necessary, nor any philosophical background required; all that is needed is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Café-style discussion and a lively philosophical dojo in the spirit of learning and friendly debate. We welcome your self-reflections, and encourage you to question assumptions while being prepared to have your own assumptions questioned. This event is also posted to the **Philosophy Circle** group. **Possible questions:** * **What are we really saying when we call something “art”?** * **Why does art matter at all?** * **If taste is subjective, why do we argue about whether art is good?** * **Where does the meaning of an artwork live?** And any other questions or curiosities about this topic people might have on the day! Here is a quote. > **“Isn’t the point of art less what people put into it and more what people get out of it?”** Todd Chavez in S6 EP16 *BoJack Horseman*: Hope to see you there!

October Book Club

Welcome to our October gathering of Melbourne Women's Big Ideas Book Club! If you love discovering great books and discussing the ideas they spark, we'd love to have you join us. This is a relaxed monthly lunch where every member brings along a book they've recently enjoyed. There are no set reads and no genre restrictions—just thoughtful books and interesting women. Each member has the opportunity to share what they've been reading, what resonated, what challenged them, or what fell short. From there, the conversation naturally evolves as we explore new perspectives, exchange recommendations, and connect through a shared love of reading. Whether you're a regular attendee or joining us for the first time, you'll find a welcoming group of curious, intelligent women who enjoy meaningful conversation and genuine connection. I can't wait to hear what you've been reading this month.

November Book Club

Welcome to our November gathering of Melbourne Women's Big Ideas Book Club! If you love discovering great books and discussing the ideas they spark, we'd love to have you join us. This is a relaxed monthly lunch where every member brings along a book they've recently enjoyed. There are no set reads and no genre restrictions—just thoughtful books and interesting women. Each member has the opportunity to share what they've been reading, what resonated, what challenged them, or what fell short. From there, the conversation naturally evolves as we explore new perspectives, exchange recommendations, and connect through a shared love of reading. Whether you're a regular attendee or joining us for the first time, you'll find a welcoming group of curious, intelligent women who enjoy meaningful conversation and genuine connection. I can't wait to hear what you've been reading this month.

Come & Try Dragon Boating with the Yarra River Dragons!

**"Come & Try" Dragon Boating with the Yarra River Dragons!** This is a great opportunity to learn how to paddle in a dragon boat. Feeling fit and want to try a new water sport? Want to join a friendly, inclusive and fun team? If this sounds like you, then come and try Dragon Boat Racing with the Yarra River Dragons. We are looking to build our team for the 2026/27 racing season. Come and have a go! **Sign up for a "Dragon Pass" here:** [https://yarrariverdragons.com.au/come-and-try/dragon-pass/ ](https://yarrariverdragons.com.au/come-and-try/dragon-pass/) **More details on our Club website** **What to bring** We would recommend you to wear and bring: * Sports gear and shoes that can get wet * A change of clothes * Towel * Water bottle * Sunscreen, sunglasses and a sports cap or beanie (be sun smart!) **We will provide you:** * Paddle, and * PFD (Personal Floatation Device)

Our monthly social in the Southern Suburbs

Trusting humans in the era of Intelligence | Melbourne TED Talk Community Event

Join the Melbourne TED Talk Community for an engaging session and meet people who like being an ideator, who want to bring their voice to a larger community. In contrast to a typical public speaking training event, where you receive feedback on your amms and aas and the way you present, this goes beyond that. **The objective of this community is to get inspired by some of the best ideas serving humanity, find your own calling and voice, be an ideator, and share your ideas clearly and persuasively.** The talk we will play is one of the amazing talks from the TED Library. In this session, we will delve deeper into the topic and gain perspective, and learn from each other. Be prepared to network, engage in meaningful conversations, and embark on a journey of professional development and leadership growth. **Mark your calendars and don't miss this opportunity to refine your public speaking abilities with the Melbourne TED Talk Community!** **TED Talk link to watch together: TBA** **Agenda (as a guide)** 6.00 PM Registration 6.10 PM Introduction by Attendees 6.15 PM 10-12 min TED talk on screen (optional) 6.30 PM Breakout session (Group / Individual) based on topic 6.40 PM Individual / Group shares their takeaways 7.00 PM Practice the Art of Public Speaking - 2-3 talks of 2-5 minutes 7.10 PM Feedback to the Presenters and overall session 7.20 PM Event Concludes & floor opens for Networking **Location Guide:** We are in the Sue Healy Room which is on 2nd floor. For any issues in locating the room, please call or message on the number displayed in the Foyer near the lift. **Fees:** The event has **a $5 contribution** towards hiring the hall and Audiovisual. This can be paid through PayPal at the time of registration. **RSVP and Non-attendance is taken very seriously by us including a block to attend the future events. So for any reasons you can't attend please change your RSVP to NO atleast a day in advance. This will help the Organisers manage the venue and seating.** Looking forward to seeing you there. The Organizers Raj

Coffee & connections - FREE!

Your fav event is back!! Coffee & connections at Caulfield Park, hosted by Oscar. Is it a FREE event, if you wish to contribute, please do so below. **Ticketed here:** [Coffee tickets](https://www.trybooking.com/DPPEJ) This has been by far the most popular and in demand event on our calendar. Oscar and Brynn will meet and greet you on arrival, mix and move you around, whilst also engaging and interacting. Your ticket covers admin fees, the cost of running events and hosting fees. Coffee and connections is just that, a relaxed way to connect. Bring your coffee and chat in the outdoors. No loud music, the sun is shining and great people to meet. Throughout event, the hosts will suggest for people to mix and move. It is also what you make event! **Please arrive by 11:30am.** **Meeting point:** By the pond, Balaclava Rd. Get your ticket and see you there\~ Dogs welcomed!

Halloween Themed Community Camp (Healesville VIC | 1.5 Hours from Melbourne CBD)

**Registration is required at below link:** **Tickets: $50** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-oct-2026-edition-or-healesville-vic-or-1-5-hours-from-melbourne-cbd Oot & Aboot’s Community Camp is a relaxed, low-pressure overnight camping experience designed to bring LGBTQIA+ people and allies together in nature — this time with a Halloween twist!. This is our sixth camping event, and we’re intentionally keeping it simple. There’s no packed schedule or expectations — just space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the outdoors in good company (maybe with a few pumpkins and cobwebs thrown in). Across one night, you can look forward to: * A self-paced 1.5 hour hike to Maroondah Reservoir Park (Saturday morning, optional) * A welcoming and inclusive camp environment, dressed up for the season * Lawn and board games * Swimming * Spooky storytelling around the campfire (bring a tale to share, or just come listen) * A Halloween-spirited campfire hangout — costumes and Halloween makeup welcome (but never required!) * Plenty of unstructured community time to talk, laugh, and connect * A simple self-serve breakfast on Sunday morning Feel free to bring a costume, some face paint or Halloween makeup, decorations for your site, or just your regular camping gear — however much (or little) Halloween spirit you're in the mood for is totally fine with us. This is an **adults-only (18+)** event with a maximum of **15 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. New: pre-event WhatsApp group For this event, we're trialling an opt-in WhatsApp group for confirmed ticket holders. It's a relaxed space to say hi, ask questions, or get to know a few faces before the day — especially handy if you're coming solo and want a bit of a heads-up on who else will be there. Joining is completely optional — your phone number may be visible to other members — and the group will be deleted 3 days after the event. The campsite is located in Healesville, VIC, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. For safety and privacy reasons, the exact location will be provided only to confirmed ticket holders and can be found on the ticket sent via email after payment. Please remember to check your junk or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox. Know before you go: * Participants should bring their own camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, cooking stove, utensils and drinks (except breakfast). Please reach out if you don't have any or missing some of the camping gear, we may have a solution for you * If you'd like to get into the Halloween spirit, feel free to bring a costume and/or Halloween makeup — face paint and makeup remover are worth packing if you go this route * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accommodation of specific dietary or allergy requirements. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether this event is right for you. Please ensure your own needs are met by bringing food that suits your requirements * Our events take place in outdoor environments across various locations in Victoria, which may involve uneven ground and bush walking. Some venues may not meet all accessibility needs. As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accessibility assistance. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether a specific event is right for you. If you feel you may need support on the day, we encourage you to bring a carer or support person * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance, though registered assistance animals are welcome Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Powered and grassed/gravelled sites * Camp Kitchen: Includes microwave, toaster, kettle, fridge and free barbeques * Swimming pool * Water taps throughout the park * Toilets and showers * Campfire is allowed when conditions are suitable Oot & Aboot events are grounded in respect, inclusion, and care. We aim to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ people and allies feel safe, welcome, and supported. If you’re looking for a gentle way to reconnect with nature and community, we’d love to have you join us. ## Know before you go * Who is this event for? This event is for LGBTQIA+ adults and allies (18+). It’s designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure. * Do I need camping experience? No. This is a relaxed community camp. If you can set up basic camping gear, you’ll be just fine. * What does my ticket include? Your ticket covers campsite fees, access to facilities, lawn and board games, casual group walks, and a simple shared breakfast on Sunday morning. * What food is provided? A simple self-serve breakfast (bread, spreads, fruit, tea & coffee) is included. Please bring your own food and drinks for all other meals. * Is this event accessible for people with mobility needs? Our events take place in outdoor environments across various locations in Victoria, which may involve uneven ground and bush walking. Some venues may not meet all accessibility needs. As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accessibility assistance. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether a specific event is right for you. If you feel you may need support on the day, we encourage you to bring a carer or support person. * Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accommodation of specific dietary or allergy requirements. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether this event is right for you. Please ensure your own needs are met by bringing food that suits your requirements." * Can I bring alcohol? Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. * Are pets allowed? Unfortunately we're unable to accommodate pets, though registered assistance animals are welcome. * Will I get the exact location after booking? Yes. Exact campsite location will be shared with confirmed ticket holders for safety and privacy. * What should I bring? Bring your own camping gear, food, cooking stove, utensil, and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event. Please email or text us if you would like to borrow some camping gear. We might be able to arrange for you.

BeSocial. Coffee and New Friends!

Join us for a relaxed and welcoming “Coffee & New Friends” meetup, the perfect opportunity to unwind, enjoy a great cup of coffee, go for a walk and connect with new people in a friendly, low-pressure environment. Whether you’re looking to expand your social circle, have meaningful conversations, or simply get out of the house, this is a space where everyone is welcome. Come as you are, grab a drink, come for a walk and leave with new connections. To help you get the most out of the event, we ask that you download our app before you arrive (or upon arrival). The app will be used throughout the event for prompts, activities, and other interactive content so having it ready will ensure you can fully participate. https://apps.apple.com/au/app/besocial/id6759604739 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appetiser.besocial&hl=en Event photography and videography may take place at this event. Images and footage captured may be used in future BeSocial promotional materials. If you do not wish to appear in promotional materials, please notify Nexaro Group Pty Ltd before the event by emailing support@besocialapp.co, or let the event hosts know on the day.

MEL MLOps Community #19 | Advanced Evals & Deep Agent Harnesses

We are stoked to announce our next **Melbourne MLOps Community Meetup** of the year! We’re gathering at Mantel to unpack the realities of building reliable, production-ready AI agents. Join two top-tier industry experts to learn how to move beyond basic evaluations and build the structural harnesses that turn fragile demos into real-world tools. 🎤 Our speakers and topics: 🧪🎯 **The Lesser of Two Evals:** Why Your Agent Passes Benchmarks and Fails Users **Josh Gillies**, Senior Software Engineer @ Prefactor Traditional LLM evaluation metrics (correctness, groundedness, and hallucination checks) are necessary starting points, but they aren't enough to guarantee a great agent. In production, agents encounter unexpected multi-turn branching, bad conversations, and tools which can fail in a myriad of ways. In this talk, we’ll explore evaluations beyond using a single-prompt LLM as a judge and look at Agent quality as a holistic system. 🏗️🧠 **Your Agent Needs a Harness:** How deep agents actually work **Lisa Sherin**, Founding Deployed Engineer @ Langchain Most agent demos work because someone is watching. The gap between a demo and something you'd let run unattended isn't the model, it's the harness around it: how you structure the loop, hand it tools, manage context, and recover when a step goes wrong. This session pulls apart the agent harness pattern and how Deep Agents use it to plan, delegate, and stay on task over long-running work. **Networking** The Melbourne MLOps Community is committed to fostering a space where AI/ML engineers and practitioners can connect, exchange ideas, and build meaningful relationships. Come ready to discuss: * The tools you’re experimenting with * Trends you’re seeing in ML and MLOps * Challenges you’re tackling * Ways to find peer support We’ll have food, drinks, and the perfect space for great conversations — so feel free to bring along anyone interested in ML, MLOps, or AI more broadly. **Agenda** 🍕 **5:30pm** – Networking, drinks & food 🙋 **6:00pm** – Welcome 🎤 **6:10pm** – Presentation by Josh ❓ **6:30pm** – Questions for Josh 🎤 **6:40pm** – Presentation by Lisa ❓ **7:00pm** – Questions for Lisa 🍻 **7:10pm onwards** – Networking, drinks & food We’re looking forward to seeing you there! **P.S.** If you can’t make it in person, we’ll be streaming the event via Google Meet. Google Meet link: [https://meet.google.com/fxh-hpsg-ryt](https://meet.google.com/fxh-hpsg-ryt)

Neurodivergent Hobby Hangout 🎲

Japanese Dinner ELSTERNWICK