Alchemy

**Event posted in other places so number shown below doesn't represent how many people will actually come.** **Saturday 14th February** Come along ANYTIME between 10.30am and 5.30pm. **Only $20**, pay on the day - BUT PLEASE DON'T COME IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LIVE WITH FEELS SICK with COVID or FLU! You know? We know how it is … You've read the books and looked up stuff online … and you’re bursting with ideas and questions and you want to talk about it with someone … but … your family won’t understand, your friends won’t take you seriously … and don’t even think about your workmates … That’s why, many years ago, we started Magic Saturdays to provide a safe, comfortable and very pagan space where you can immerse yourself in Witchcraft, Paganism, Magic, Spells, Rituals … everything … nothing is off-limits and there are no stupid questions. Each Saturday, apart from the obvious conversations, we try to do some magic just so you can get a feel for it. The people that come along range from complete beginners to those that have been living the pagan life for some time. It doesn’t matter. Everyone has something to contribute or some just want to soak up the atmosphere. Either way, whether you come for half an hour or the whole day you’ll feel refreshed, empowered and validated … and you may have even met some of our nature spirits. Our shop is also open (it doesn’t cost anything if you just want to come and look at the shop), so remember to top up on your magical supplies while you’re here. We now also have a selection of potted herbs for sale including such magical herbs as Mugwort, Rue and Squill. Tarot readings are also available. When: Saturday, 14th February … Time: … anytime between 10.30am & 6.00pm Where: 130 Boronia Rd., Vermont, Melbourne, 3133 Cost: $20 03 9873 3736 (please note this event is also posted on our website and facebook pages, so the number of people attending shown here does not reflect the number of people that will turn up) **Email:** esoteric666@optusnet.com.au **Website:** [https://esotericbookshop.org](https://esotericbookshop.org/) **How to find us :** https://esotericbookshop.org/contact-us/

Welcome to Melbourne Volleyball Academy! 🤗 **[[WHAT]]** This session will be broken into 2 halves, 1st half is training and the 2nd half is games. Please arrive on time as we start exactly at 6 PM. **[[WHO]]** The training is intended for social volleyball players at the beginner or intermediate level. If you are an 'advanced' player and would like to work on fundamentals, you are more than welcome to join. We also have training and game sessions at our Pascoe Vale location on Friday evenings. **[[HOW MUCH]]** $21 card payment will be processed on the day via square reader (EFTPOS). **[[WHEN]]** The stadium is booked for 6 PM-9 PM. However, feel free to come early and stretch as the Community Centre is open earlier. All players are expected to update their RSVP at least 24 hours in advance if they are unable to attend. **[[THINGS TO BRING]]** We ask that you bring: * Water bottle * Appropriate footwear for indoor court shoes - netball shoes, volleyball shoes, or basketball shoes would be suitable. * Wear contacts or sports glasses if possible. **[[OTHER DETAILS]]** Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play. If you are on the waitlist, or not registered at all, you will not be permitted to play.

Join Stephen Fiyalko, President of the Melbourne Theosophical Society for meditation, self attunement, study and discussion on the Laws of the Universe. We welcome all to join at 5:30pm for a 30 min Meditation and will begin the discussion group at 6:00pm. For those who prefer to just attend the discussion group you're welcome to arrive at 6pm. An understanding of and action within the Laws through our choices give practical tools for facing, managing and surmounting with confidence the many challenges we face in our daily lives, in society and the world itself. Ignorance of the Laws can leave us adrift to be buffeted and feel overwhelmed by stormy seas. Each week will look at one of the twelve Laws which are principles, not rules, seeking a deeper understanding of that Law, our and their inter-relationship with the other Laws. Discussion will involve sharing stories from our lives which contribute to a growing understanding and confidence in our lives. Each session is free, but donations are welcome.

Welcome to Melbourne Volleyball Academy! 🤗 **[[WHAT]]** This session will be broken into 2 halves, 1st half is training and the 2nd half is games. Please arrive on time as we will start exactly at 6:30 PM. Our intention is to have this training be the 'next step' after our beginner-level training at North Melbourne Community Centre. We will be focusing on learning what specific roles on the court entail, improving 'volleyball IQ', breaking bad habits, and building better techniques. **[[WHERE]]** The session will be held as Pascoe Vale Girls College. Please enter via Cornwall Road through the back gates as other entrances onto the campus will be closed **[[WHO]]** The training is intended for social volleyball players at the intermediate level or 'B' level (for more details on volleyball levels, please visit our site here: https://melbournevolleyballacademy.com.au/skill-levels-explained). Players are expected to: * have strong fundamentals * pass freeballs and serve receive consistently * understand 4-2 system (pass middle rotation) * have some knowledge of 5-1 (1 setter all around) or 6-2 (back row setter only) systems * understand 'base defense' * help others and have good sportsmanship If you are a high intermediate (BB) or advanced player (A) you are more than welcome to join but you may find our open play sessions for BB/A level players more suitable. For players that are at the beginner level, we suggest attending our training on Fridays at North Melbourne Community Centre 6-9PM as beginners may find the drills and level of play too difficult. Players will be asked to attend a different session if their play is deemed unsafe or if they are not of the appropriate skill level. **[[HOW MUCH]]** $21 card payment will be collected on the day via square (EFTPOS) payment. **[[WHEN]]** The stadium is booked for 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM. However, feel free to come early and stretch as the stadium is open earlier. **Last-minute dropouts and no-shows will have a zero-tolerance policy going forward.** All players are expected to **update their RSVP at least 24 hours** in advance if they are unable to attend. This applies to players on the going list and the waitlist. **[[THINGS TO BRING]]** We ask that you bring: * Water bottle * Appropriate footwear for indoor court shoes - netball shoes, volleyball shoes, or basketball shoes would be suitable. * Wear contacts or sports glasses if possible. **[[OTHER DETAILS]]** Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play. If you are on the waitlist, or not registered at all, you will not be permitted to play.

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your cheeseboard and coaster, use the *MEETAMC10* coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Unleash your creativity at our Resin Art Workshop in the heart of Melbourne! Join us for a fun and interactive session where you'll learn the art of resin pouring from expert instructors. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this workshop is perfect for everyone. You'll create stunning, unique pieces to take home and enjoy, all while surrounded by like-minded creatives. Our workshops provide all the tools, materials, and guidance you'll need to bring your vision to life. Discover the mesmerizing flow of resin, explore vibrant pigments, and watch your art evolve into a glossy masterpiece. Each session is designed to be both educational and relaxing, making it the ideal activity to unwind, socialize, and spark inspiration. Spaces are limited, so book your spot today and dive into the colorful world of resin art with us!

Osteria Ilaria offers modern Italian cuisine with a focus on seasonal produce, and was a request for 2026 by one of the members of this group. I’ve booked for 6 Fine Diners to enjoy the Chef’s menu at $120 per person for dinner from 7pm on Friday 13 February - take a look at the menu here for more details: https://www.osteriailaria.com/#menu For those who like a wine pairing, there’s the option to add this for $95 on the night. 
Join the waitlist to express interest. Once I have names in the waitlist, I’ll send you a ‘Meetup Message’ to confirm you have a spot and how to pay. You’ll need to send me $50 to secure your place (equivalent to the cancellation fee, this will be deducted from your bill when we settle up). Once paid I’ll move you from the waitlist to going. Please check that you don’t have your settings blocking messages; if I can’t contact you I’ll have to move on to the next person. Also if you don’t respond to my message within 3 days, I’ll let you know that I’m offering the seat to the next person on the waitlist. 
Thanks and looking forward to trying Osteria Ilaria with you in Feb!

Beloved Friends , You are warmly invited to join **Osho Dynamic Meditation** — a powerful space to release stress, let go of built-up tension, and breathe freely again. Through movement, breath, and silence, allow the mind to unwind and the body to relax. No experience is needed — just come as you are and reconnect with your true nature, with awareness, aliveness, and inner peace. We would love to share this meditative journey with you. http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/e/0/600_453663808.jpeg When : Every Saturday , 7:30am to 8:30am Where : Elwood Angling Club, Foreshore, Elwood Contribution : $15 "Just to be is such a great celebration if you know how to take the conditioning off. This 'taking off' you will learn through Dynamic Meditation. it will not be caused; it will come to you uncaused. Meditation will create a situation in which you will come to the unknown; by and by you will be pushed from your habitual , mechanical, robot-like personality. be courageous: practise Dynamic Meditation vigorously and all else will follow. it will not be you doing, it will be a happening" OSHO - Meditation the art of ecstasy With Love and Hugs, Bodhiprem * If you are coming along for the first time, please arrive 10 minutes early for instructions, Please see below a link for the Dynamic Meditation Instructions: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hjxr9MySioc&feature=youtu.be

This is a paid event, $50 — please purchase your tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/DIVKN 14th February, Carlton. You’re invited to an unhurried afternoon of tea and inner listening. We’ll start with organic tea, prepared and shared slowly. Once the room settles, we will watch a 45-minute video presentation - an introduction to the Deck and how to use it in a grounded way. Then you’ll do your own simple practice: draw a Card see what it stirs, and share with us only if you want to (quiet participation is completely welcome).

Join, Stephen Fiyalko, President of the Melbourne Theosophical Society, at 1:30pm on Saturday 14 February 2026 for a talk and practical workshop, in follow-up to previous talks, which looks at life’s purpose as one becomes aware of, engages with and embraces the process of transformation. This talk and workshop considers how to engage together joyfully with transformational choice in the context of the 12 Laws (principles not rules) of the Universe, their keys and theosophy. The Laws themselves suggest that who we consider ourselves to be based on our nature, personality, knowledge, karma, education, emotions, social constraints, habits, ego, mind and the hidden shadow self can form a barrier to perceiving ourselves, other people and the world as it is because according, e.g., to the Law of Relativity perception based on comparison and judgement clouds clarity of mind. The question is asked: how can the choices on the path to spiritual transformation we make be well-grounded without clarity of mind? Does the answer relate to the possibility that transformation is a continuous process which can be facilitated by our growing awareness of the Laws of the Universe and the influence of the hidden Shadow. The talk also considers how all of the Laws flow gracefully through all our lives and that with application of their keys in tandem can magnify the effect and joy of the choices we make. The talk and workshop will consider the practicality of embracing with compassion and joy every aspect of our whole being within the Laws which teach us in tandem the lessons of awareness needed to take us forward on the path of spiritual transformation. The point is made that the Laws themselves have purpose; that our journeys are very personal; that we learn by our own choices at our own pace; but we can benefit from sharing our journeys together. Handouts will be provided. Non-members will be asked to donate $5 at the door, Members are free.

Namaste Healers. Do you have topics you don't want to talk about? What about people and past events you don't want to think about? Over time, many of us accumulate thousands of small hurts that we carry around in our energy body – hurts that dampen our mood, sap our energy, and emotionally weigh us down. And here is the thing: time doesn't heal them. All it does is bury them. So we might think we've gotten over them, but then we hear a pop song, cast our eyes over an old photo album, taste a wine we shared with an ex, and our heart tightens, and we feel the pain of unresolved emotions. At this Reiki practice night, through both group Reiki and meditation exercises, we'll study techniques for healing the past so we can enjoy a brighter present. So come along. Begin clearing out the emotional gunk in the system, and leave feeling lighter and happier. Hope to see you there! Jeremy ## Time to Expand Your Reiki with Pellowah Healing? Pellowah is the **yin to Reiki's yang.** High-vibrational healing energy. Incredible symbols. Potent chakra meditations. Expanded consciousness. You'll be surprised by how much it expands your healing abilities. To find out more about our upcoming Jan. 31 - Feb. 1 **Pellowah healing** course, [click here](http://www.pellowah.net.au/pellowah-courses.html).

Join Edward Sinclair as we read, explore, reflect and study together some fascinating Theosophical texts. This session we will be reading from a theosophical text titled: **Theosophy: An Introductory Study Course** by John Algeo *‘Have you ever wondered about the “big” questions of* *life?* *Who am I really?* *Why is the world the way it is?* *Where did I come from?* *What am I doing here?* *What comes next?* *When will I find out all these things?’* This book covers many fascinating topics such as karma, reincarnation, life after death, and the purpose of life to name a few. This is an introductory book but is a fascinating exploration for all. Open to TS members and non-members - all are welcome. For persons wishing to find out about membership of the The Melbourne Theosophical Society, we invite you to attend this study group, after the session there will be an opportunity to ask questions concerning membership. Non Members $5 Entry, T.S. Members Complimentary.

✨ **EVENT OVERVIEW** We are heading north for this special Valentine’s Day gathering. This is a collaboration between Find **Your Tribe Melbourne** and **Soulful Conversations** coming together to celebrate love in its many forms — romantic, platonic, self-love, and love for humanity — through soulful conversations and meaningful connections. Rooted in openness, curiosity, and respect for diverse perspectives, this event invites you to slow down, reflect, and engage in conversations that go beyond surface-level chat. In the spirit of **Valentine’s Day**, we’ll explore spiritual and philosophical perspectives on love, connection, and purpose, while creating space to meet like-minded people who value depth, authenticity, and community. Whether you’re spiritually curious, philosophically inclined, or simply seeking more meaningful connection, you are warmly welcome. **TICKET** Tickets are $10, which covers your coffee (or equivalent drink of choice) on the day, and any remaining funds will be donated to Oxfam. 🌿 **EVENT STRUCTURE** 12:30 pm – Arrival & Welcome Arrive, grab a drink or lunch, and settle in. This is a relaxed arrival period to meet others and ease into the space. 12:45 pm – Soulful Conversations A guided discussion exploring spiritual and philosophical quotes on love, encouraging reflection, shared insights, and respectful dialogue across different perspectives. 2:00 pm – Find Your Tribe Connection Activity A facilitated connection activity hosted by Find Your Tribe Melbourne, designed to help you engage more deeply with others through thoughtful prompts and intentional conversation. 📍 **MEETING POINT** Please ask café staff for the reservation under “Soulful Conversations” or meet us at the back of the café where we will have large tables. 🌱 **NEW HERE?** **Soulful Conversations** Soulful Conversations creates a welcoming space to explore meaningful topics through reflective dialogue inspired by the Baha'i teachings and drawing on spiritual and philosophical ideas in an inclusive and open-hearted way. **Find Your Tribe Melbourne** Find Your Tribe is a community where ambitious professionals, creatives, entrepreneurs, and change-makers come together to build authentic connections and support personal and professional growth, with a mission to foster meaningful relationships and conscious leadership. **LIABILITY DISCLAIMER** By attending this event, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and are responsible for your own health, safety, and well-being during the activities. *Soulful Conversations* and its hosts are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur. Please take care, be mindful of your surroundings, and participate within your own comfort level. **PHOTO AND VIDEO DISCLAIMER** Please note that photos and videos may be taken throughout the event and may be used on our social media channels or other platforms. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, kindly inform one of the hosts at the beginning of the event.

**1\. The good: class struggle and alienation from labor** "In ancient times, the haves were the slave-owners and the have-nots the slaves. The interests of these two groups were entirely opposed. Any increase in the prosperity of the owner is at the expense of the slave and vice versa. It is a zero-sum relationship. So conflict is an unavoidable consequence. ... In Marx's analysis, this arrangement amounted to an 'alienation' of the slave from the fruits of his labor. Marx advocated the 'labour theory of value' in which the value of something is based on the labor used to produce it." (Frame, 283) a) Do we measure economic value? (Scarcity, survival, aesthetics, labor or some sort of combo?) b) Would you agree that alienation is a powerful phenomenological description? (Why, why not?) [Video: 'The Great British Class System, Explained' ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWx2MhyFYyY) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SWx2MhyFYyY c) Why is class less discussed in our modern world than gender, race and religion? **2\. The bad: dialetical materialism** "Marx was a determinist like Hegel, and he believed that the laws of being progressed in the form of a Hegelian dialetic. [movement between contrasting viewpoints] But he beleived that the ultimate causes of events were material, not mental. So he was a dialetical materialist. Further, in his view, those ultimate causes were economic." (Frame, 282) a) 'Materialism is a deficient philosophical paradigm', why or why not? b) How do we prevent our theories being overapplied? (Eg Marx thinking everything is economic.) [Optional Video 'Optimistic Nihilism' by Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBRqu0YOH14&t=1s) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MBRqu0YOH14&t=1s **The ugly: revolutionary eschatology** "...Therefore the poor are driven to revolt. Again Marx anticipates that this will bring a radical change in the social order, a revolution. Marx believed that in this particular revolution the proletariat will be the winner. So society will be governed for a time by a 'dictatorship of the proletariat'." (Frame, 284) a) Some revolutions are celebrated (eg the American Revolution), so why do so many turn out badly (eg the French Revolution)? b) Is change possible without 'breaking a few eggs' and after one revolution what prevents a cylce of revolution and counter-revolution? **Bonus: cultural Marxism** "a really bigoted quack [conspiracy theory](https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=conspiracy%20theory) wherein [conservatives](https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=conservatives) assert that there is a conspiracy where black people, lgbt people, leftists, immigrants, and anti-colonial advocates are seen as working together to instill Marxism under the pretense of [multiculturalism](https://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=multiculturalism)." (Urban Dictionary, 2013) Optional preperation movie: 'Land of the Blind' (2006) - Recommended with caution, some adult content. *A History of Western Philosophy and Theology* by John M. Frame

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter. Please bring something comfortable to lay on like a yoga mat. Being a pillow for your head or for under your knees and a blanket to cover over yourou. The library can get cold. Bring some water to help flush your body for after the session.

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter. Please bring something comfortable to lay on like a yoga mat. Being a pillow for your head or for under your knees and a blanket to cover over yourou. The library can get cold. Bring some water to help flush your body for after the session.

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

MCKS PRANIC HEALING® Level I In PRANIC HEALING® Level 1, you learn the basics of working with your energy aura, including learning to "scan," or feel the energy, to "sweep," or clean away congested energy, and to "energize," or supplement areas in your aura that have a pranic deficiency. PRANIC HEALING® has been taught to doctors, nurses, massage therapists, acupuncturists, chiropractors, shiatsu practitioners, and many others in the healing field. It has allowed them to heal confidently and consistently in the shortest learning time possible. These professionals find PRANIC HEALING® very effective and easy to apply. Other topics covered in PRANIC HEALING® Level 1: Energetic anatomy: You will learn to work with the network of chakras, meridians and auras to accelerate the healing processes of your body. Preventive healing: You will learn to remove the negative energetic patterns of a disease to prevent it from fully manifesting as a physical ailment. Self-Pranic healing: You will learn to apply these healing techniques to accelerate your own healing. Step-by-step techniques for ailments related to your: respiratory system, e.g., asthma,; circulatory system, e.g., heart ailments; gastrointestinal system, e.g., irritable bowel syndrome; musculoskeletal system, e.g., arthritis and back pain; reproductive system, e.g., menstrual problems. You'll also learn how to address common problems as migraines and sinusitis. Additionally, you'll learn to apply distant healing to loved ones who are not present in the room with you. All PRANIC HEALING® courses are "experiential," which means that you learn by actually performing the techniques and exercises in class - on yourself and those around you. During class, all the principles will be explained thoroughly and you will practice the techniques exhaustively so you will be confident in your ability to produce positive results when you finish the course. This is Day 2 of 2 Attendance at day one is required to attend day 2. The Course text book is Choa Kok Sui, "Miracles through Pranic Healing" Please bring this with you to class. PRANIC HEALING® Level 1 is a prerequisite to all other GMCKS courses. For those interested to review the class...Review fee is only $75!! LOOK AT THIS!! Review for FREE when you bring a new student to class with you.

This is a time where players of all ages, and skill levels can gather and enjoy a nice Sunday full of Chess!

As you may or may not know--I didn't until late last year--Aristotle wrote extensively on "friendship" in the Nicomachean Ethics. After 69 years the concept of friendship still creates questions and uncertainty. I had close friends in high school and for a few years after high school but our interests diverged and people moved all over the country so it was hard to maintain connections. * So if I/you haven't talked with a friend for several years, are you still friends? Are we friends who meet at Drunken Philosophy or Omnipresent Atheists? * Can you be friends with someone with whom you have virulently divergent political views? Sartre and Camus could not. * Aristotle regarded friendship as essential to a good life, not merely an added "bonus." Do you agree? * In the Nicomachean Ethics (Books VIII and IX), he claims that wealth and power are meaningless without friends. Trump has wealth and power but seems to have no real friends, but wealth and power seem meaningful to him in perverted ways. Can you have meaning in your life without friends? * Do men and women view and maintain friendships in different ways? * Aristotle categorizes friendship into three types, based on what forms the bond: * **Utility**: Based on mutual benefit, but this type is fragile and ends when the usefulness ceases. * **Pleasure**: Based on shared enjoyment (e.g., humor, hobbies). Common among youth but fades as interests change. * **Virtue (The "Complete" Friendship)**: Based on mutual respect for each other's character and goodness. You wish good for the other for their sake, not yours. * **Key Principles of "True" (Virtuous) Friendship:** * **Permanence**: Virtuous friendships last a lifetime whereas those based on utility and pleasure are fleeting. * **Reciprocity**: Requires mutual goodwill; secret or unreciprocated affection does not qualify. * **The "Second Self"**: A true friend is "another self"—their virtue helps you understand and improve yourself. * **Time and Intimacy**: Deep ("complete") friendships are few, built on time and shared experiences. * **Self-Love and Friendship:** * Good friendship starts with being a friend to yourself. * They distinguish shallow egoism (chasing honors) from real self-love (pursuing virtue). * A virtuous person’s pleasant self-company allows them to be a stable, good friend to others. * Aristotle argues that one's social circle ultimately reflects one's character—a view with striking relevance today. Well--the Drunken Philosophy social circle certainly reflects good character!