Armenian Culture

**Address**: 195 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 **Website**: https://www.nelayangroup.com.au/ Dear foodies, let's try Indonesian food this week, make new friends, and enjoy the company of other foodies. Please join our **Facebook Group** for future events information\*\*;\*\* the Link is attached here: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/172BrZ4TKU/ Please "Subscribe" and "Like" the group video. [https://youtu.be/qkLR5DalbFE?si=znCIeVXE7wCPHhT0](https://youtu.be/qkLR5DalbFE?si=znCIeVXE7wCPHhT0) Please kindly inform us in the comments if you are running late. Do not forget to update your RSVP. Call me 0402714889 if you can't find us. 如果迟到，请务必在评论栏里留言告知, 可以去餐馆里面找我们， 我们的桌上放一个Meetup sign。

**Registration required at below link:** **Tickets: $50** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-autumn-edition-or-western-victoria Oot & Aboot is a volunteer-run registered LGBTQIA+ charity creating inclusive outdoor and nature-based experiences that support mental wellbeing. The Community Camp is a relaxed, low-pressure overnight camping experience designed to bring LGBTQIA+ people and allies together in nature. This is our very first 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. Across one autumn night, you can look forward to: * A welcoming and inclusive camp environment * Lawn and board games * Casual group walks in nature * Plenty of unstructured community time to talk, laugh, and connect * A simple self-serve breakfast on Sunday morning This is an **adults-only (18+)** event with a maximum of **30 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. The campsite is located near Barrys Reef, VIC, approximately a one-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. 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 gears (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, and drinks (except breakfast) * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements — please bring food that meets your needs * Some uneven ground and bush walking may be involved * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance. Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Powered and grassed sites * Camp Kitchen: Includes microwave, fridge, kettle, toaster, electric hotplates and grill * Laundry: Washing machine, dryer (coin operated), clothesline * Free WIFI (only certain area) * BBQ (coin operated) * Available to purchase: washing powder, bagged firewood and bagged ice (subject to stock availability) 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. ## FAQs 1\. Who is this event for? This event is for LGBTQIA+ adults and allies (18+). It’s designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure. 2\. 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. 3\. 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. 4\. 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. 5\. Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements. Please bring food that meets your needs. 6\. Can I bring alcohol? Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. 7\. Are pets allowed? No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted at this event. 8\. Will I get the exact location after booking? Yes. Exact campsite location will be shared with confirmed ticket holders for safety and privacy. 9\. What should I bring? Bring your own camping gear, food and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event.

## 🇯🇵 Progressi部: Japanese-English Language & Culture Exchange 🇦🇺 **"Serious Study, Authentic Community" — 本気で学び、本気で交流する。** Join us for our weekly exchange designed for those dedicated to practicing Japanese and English. This is a space to improve your language skills, share cultural insights, and make new, like-minded friends in a respectful environment. ### 🎯 Who This Group Is For We welcome individuals who are here to **actively practice their Japanese or English**. Whether you are looking for a study partner or want to learn more about culture, this is a community for focused and meaningful interaction. **✅ 受付方法 / Event Check-in (Strictly Required)** 到着の際、必ず主催者に以下の提示をお願いします / Upon arrival, please present the following to the organizer: * **Meetupの参加申し込み（RSVP）画面をご提示ください。** / Show your Meetup RSVP confirmation screen. * **予約なし（No RSVP）での参加はお断りしております。** / No walk-ins permitted without a confirmed RSVP. * **Participation Fee: $3 CASH** Non-Japanese citizens. ### 🚫 Conduct & Safety Policy To ensure a high-quality experience for all members, we maintain a strict standard of behavior: * **Immediate Ban:** Any individual found guilty of misconduct or creating "trouble" will be banned from the group immediately.**.** * **Organizer Authority:** The Organizer reserves the right to remove any member at their sole discretion to maintain the safety and integrity of the community. * **Respectful Interaction:** All members are expected to be polite and mindful of others. Do not make fellow participants feel uncomfortable or pressured. * **Privacy:** Please respect the personal boundaries of others. Do not pressure members for private contact information. **If any member makes you feel uncomfortable, please report it immediately to the organizers: Shin, David, or Ray.** *** ### 📝 Event Details * **Time:** Saturday, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM * **Arrival:** Please arrive **10–15 minutes early** due to limited seating. * **Entry Fee:** **$3 CASH** (Non-Japanese citizens). This contribution covers monthly meetup hosting fees. * **Photography:** Photos will be taken during the event for our community archives. ### 🇯🇵 日本語でのご案内 メルボルン市内のカフェで、本気で学べる日英言語文化交流会を主催しています。 * **目的:** 日本語・英語の練習、そして同じ目標を持つ友人作りを目的としています。 * **参加費:** 日本国籍以外の方は $3ドル（現金のみ）。 * **ルール:** 迷惑行為やトラブルを起こす方の参加は一切禁止です。主催者の判断により、即座に退会・出入り禁止の措置を取らせていただきます。 * 困ったことがあれば、すぐにオーガナイザー（Shin, David, Ray）までお知らせください。 ### 🔗 Connect With Us * **Facebook:** [facebook.com/groups/progressibu](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu) * **X (Twitter):** [twitter.com/progressibu](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://twitter.com/progressibu)

Come for a delicious Hawker style Vietnamese meal and settle in for a meaningful conversation on "Freedom". Bring your favourite celebratory chocolate to share. We start our exploration using short selections from the Bahá’í teachings and other inspirational sources. The aim is to uplift, inspire and motivate; the conversation will benefit from all participants’ viewpoints. Everyone is invited to positively contribute to elevated conversations, inquiry, consultation and learning. As we learn from one another we hope to build new connections, bridges of unity and respect for all humanity.

## **Fact Finding Mission: Kirtan at Kindred** 📍 **Kindred Studios, Yarraville** 📅 **Sat, 18 Apr, 7pm – 9pm AEST** Curious about mantra meditation, kirtan, or Eastern spirituality—but not sure what to expect? A few of us are heading along to **Kirtan at Kindred** for a light-hearted **“fact finding mission”** 🕵️‍♂️🎶 Come join if you'd like to explore, observe, participate, and discuss afterwards. ### **What is Kirtan?** Kirtan is a form of meditative music from the Bhakti Yoga tradition involving: 🎵 Music 🪘 Mantra chanting 🧘 Meditation 🤝 Community No experience needed—whether you're: * Curious * Sceptical * Spiritual * Or just enjoy live music All welcome. ### **Plan** We’ll attend together, enjoy the event, and use it as an opportunity to: * experience kirtan firsthand * reflect on its meaning/practice * discuss impressions afterwards 🎟️ **Event Tickets / Details:** [https://events.humanitix.com/kirtan-at-kindred-april](https://events.humanitix.com/kirtan-at-kindred-april) 📍 **Venue Info:** Kindred Studios – creative arts space in Melbourne’s inner west.

**Who are we?** *East Asian Singles Community of Melbourne (30-45)* is a welcoming group for East Asian singles looking to connect in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. We focus on **small group events** where it’s easier to have real conversations, share interests, and build genuine connections. Our goal is simple: create a **friendly, casual space** where we can enjoy fun activities, explore shared hobbies, and grow a supportive community together. **The Event** Join us as we walk around and enjoy a local market at QVM that celebrates Latin American culture, with plenty of food, performances and local goods. There will also be live music so it is sure to be a vibrant day out! Check out their webpage for more details: [https://cachivacheslatinmarket.com/](https://cachivacheslatinmarket.com/) **Meetup Time and Point:** Time: Sunday 19th April 11am Where: Queen Victoria Markets *(exact location will be shared on the day)* Come along for a relaxed walk, good vibes, and great company. Looking forward to seeing you there! 💃

Join us as we walk around and enjoy a local market at QVM that celebrates Latin American culture, with plenty of food, performances and local goods on offer. There will also be live music so it is sure to be a great day out! Check out their webpage for more details: [https://cachivacheslatinmarket.com/](https://cachivacheslatinmarket.com/) 📍 **Meetup Point:** Queen Victoria Markets *(exact location will be shared on the day)* Come along for a relaxed walk, food, good vibes, and great company. Looking forward to seeing you there! 💃

Join us to see Melbourne Museum’s special exhibition ‘ROME: Empire, Power, People’ followed by lively discussion about the relevance of themes such as power and human dignity, over lunch in Lygon Street. Please scroll right through to end to see discussion points for lunch AND suggested prior reading link. Meet at museum: 11.45 am Exhibition: 12.00pm - 1.15pm Walk to restaurant: 10min Lunch: 1.30pm @ Il Gambero 166 Lygon Street Indicate in comments if you are coming to exhibition and / or lunch. ***New Members:*** New members are more than welcome, we are a good-natured bunch who value friendship and exploring the realm of next wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! ***Cost:*** $35 adult, $30 senior, $30 concession **PLEASE PURCHASE TICKET DIRECTLY ON MUSEUM WEBSITE FOR ROME: EMPIRE, POWER, PEOPLE FOR 12.00PM 19 APRIL AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT** [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/) $5 CONTRIBUTION (IF YOU CAN) TOWARDS ONGOING OPERATIONAL COSTS ***About the exhibition:*** From the fall of Julius Caesar to the power and ambition of an Empire, the exhibition showcases the luxury of Imperial Rome, the spectacle of the gladiator arena, the bustling marketplaces and the everyday experiences of Romans. Explore Ancient Rome’s political, social and spiritual worlds through over 180 objects dating from the Imperial period 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, with all of the objects on display in Melbourne for the first time ever. The splendour, drama and humanity of Rome is brought to life in detail with scenography and multimedia, giving visitors an immersive experience and vivid portrait of a civilisation that continues to shape our world today. ***Link with modern humanism and points for discussion over lunch:*** **🏛 Power, Citizenship, and Human Responsibility** Rome’s political system—centralised under the emperor yet still tied to republican ideals—invites reflection on **human agency**, **leadership**, and **ethical governance**. * The emperor’s authority shows how power can stabilise or destabilise societies, prompting questions about **justice**, **accountability**, and **the common good**. * The expansion of citizenship, culminating in the *Constitutio Antoniniana* (212 CE), highlights evolving ideas about **belonging**, **rights**, and **inclusion**. * The Senate, magistrates, and local elites demonstrate how communities negotiate **shared responsibility** and **public service**. Humanist connection: Studying these structures encourages us in the 21st Century to consider what fair leadership looks like, how societies might distribute power, and how individuals contribute to civic life. **🎨 Culture, Creativity, and the Value of Expression** Roman cultural life—its literature, architecture, philosophy, and public entertainment—reveals a civilisation deeply invested in **human creativity** and **shared cultural identity**. * Writers like Seneca, Pliny, and Juvenal explored moral questions, emotions, and the human condition. * Monumental architecture expressed collective values: memory, pride, identity, and aspiration. * Religious and philosophical traditions (Stoicism, mystery cults, local deities) show humans searching for meaning and ethical frameworks. Humanist connection: These cultural expressions affirm the humanist belief that creativity, reflection, and intellectual inquiry enrich both individuals and communities. **🏺 Social Life, Dignity, and the Human Condition** Roman society was hierarchical, unequal, and often harsh—especially for enslaved people, women, and the poor. Yet it also reveals universal human experiences: family, work, belonging, resilience, and aspiration. * The *familia* structure shows how people sought stability, identity, and continuity. * Urban life—baths, markets, forums—demonstrates the importance of **community spaces** where people meet, talk, and coexist. * The presence of slavery and inequality invites ethical reflection on **human dignity**, **freedom**, and **justice**. Humanist connection: By examining both the achievements and injustices of Roman society, we can reflect on the importance of empathy, moral reasoning, and an understanding of how societies can uphold—or violate—human dignity. **🌍 Why This Link Matters for Learning** Connecting Rome to humanist values helps us: * see history as a lens for understanding ethical questions; * recognise the continuity of human concerns across time; * reflect on how societies shape and are shaped by human choices; * develop critical thinking about power, culture, and identity; * understand that studying the past is ultimately about understanding people. It turns the Roman Empire from a distant civilisation into a mirror for thinking about what kind of world we want to build today. ***Suggested prior reading:*** In preparation for the exhibition it is recommended to read about the events of Rome during this time period of 1st Century CE to the 3rd Century CE, and the philosopher Seneca. [https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic](https://www.britannica.com/place/ancient-Rome/The-transformation-of-Rome-and-Italy-during-the-Middle-Republic) [https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/seneca/)

A ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee) is a combination of a party and night of traditional Scottish dancing. Join with the Brunswick Scottish Society and learn how to do fun dances, and have some BYO drinks. Don't worry if you don't know how to dance -- the lovely people will teach you. This is the best $5 night you'll ever have! This is like a big party in a hall with BYO drinks, BYO glass/cup, BYO food and lots of Scottish Dancing. Most of the dances are like square dances with everyone being told or shown what to do. A few of the dances are similar to those done at ballroom places such as the Pride of Erin Waltz, Parma Waltz, Charmain Foxtrot or Evening 3 Step. Don't worry if you don't know any, they teach you. It finishes early, about 11pm, which is good as it's cheap drinks (BYO) you are probably best to use Public Transport. The 96 Tram gets you back to the CBD quite quickly. Some of us pop around the corner after and go to the Lomond Hotel on Nicholson St. The Lomond Hotel normally has a good band and dancing with free entry. Note: The number 96 tram just outside the hotel is one of the trams that is now running all night. It is a family event so you can bring children who might enjoy learning to dance. There can be six or seven other children there or there may be none. FAQ: COST: Normally $5 tickets at the door but this March event is free TIME: 7:45pm for an 8pm start LOCATION: Fleming Park Hall, 104 Victoria St., Brunswick East (the building just east of the Brunswick Bowls Club - 96 tram, stop #26. Note: If you end up at the tram terminus you have gone one stop too far. FOOD: Normally we bring food for a shared dinner - such as pasta, a salad, or cupcakes. Due to covid we are currently not having a shared dinner but you can bring snacks for yourself or immediate group at your table. DRINKS: bring your own + bring glasses/cups WEAR: plaid/tartan if you have it. It's not required, it's just way more fun! AFTER: drinks at the Lomond Hotel on Nicholson Note: This is being placed on a number of meetup groups and similar. We feel that having around 50 people dancing is quite good for this hall but previously had months with it going towards double this. Consequently we're now setting maximum RSVP numbers with the maximum being shared between groups. We monitor the total RSVPs over all groups and when we get enough people we cut off each group's maximum so that further RSVPs go onto wait lists.

We are heading to Dandenong Ranges to take in the stunning Autumn Colours in Dandenong Ranges - Alfred Nicholas, Tindale & Gardens. Please carry takeaway lunch and water. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP (click going) to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXQ](https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXQ) This includes 10% GST and Parks VIC fee of $2.40 per person. Trybooking Tickets will be scanned at the meeting point. The tickets are non refundable and there is no option to transfer the ticket to a different event. The ticket will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved. **Meeting Point**: Let's meet infront of the black directions sign at Federation Square at 10:00 AM. Meeting Point Photo: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/16_TULglixHSnN4N9OBXos6rCuCVuICGe/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/16_TULglixHSnN4N9OBXos6rCuCVuICGe/view?usp=sharing) Everywhere in the Dandenong Ranges will be awash with bright autumn colours and fallen leaves in late April/May. We will be visiting Alfred Nicholas, George Tindale and Dandenong Botanic Gardens. **George Tindale Gardens** \- One of the more beautiful gardens in the Dandenong Ranges\. This picturesque gardens boasts enviable collection of rare and exotic plants and flowers\, set under the shelter of the massive Mountain Ash Trees\. **Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens** \- The gardens are known for their picturesque waterfalls\, water features and its iconic ornamental lake and boathouse\. **Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden** \- 36\-hectare garden with extensive paths past diverse plants\, trees & water features\, plus a cafe\. 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. Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 Public transport is free this weekend. 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 eight 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. 📸 Cameras welcome, but… – please refrain from taking photos of our members for privacy reasons. 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/)

Let’s get together for a relaxed Saturday brunch! This will be the very first event for our group. Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, get out more, or just enjoy good conversation over brunch, this is the perfect place to start. We’ll be meeting at The Goat Gahanna for great food, drinks, and a welcoming, no-pressure atmosphere.

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

Ciao a tutt\*! Let's meet Monday at 6.30pm at the Upper Arlington Library (Tremont Branch) in **Meeting Room A** to speak in Italian for 1 hour.

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Soccer + vegan deli eats = the perfect Saturday ⚽🌱🔥 We’re kicking things off with soccer (all levels welcome!) and then heading to Vida’s Plant-Based Butcher for some seriously good food—Vida’s Reubens, Philly cheesesteaks, Chipotle Cheddar Melt and classic deli sides. Whether you’re playing, socializing, or just here for the food, this is a great way to meet like-minded people and enjoy the day! Game → Food → Good vibes 📍 Soccer - Park of Roses 3923 N High St Columbus, OH 43214 📍 Vida’s Plant Based Butcher 1724 Northwest Blvd Unit C Columbus OH, 43212