Cognition

**Details** Support groups for individuals with OCD and their families are offered in-person at the Mental Health Foundation Australia - 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra. Come along and gain support from others with OCD in a comfortable environment at 6:30pm on the second Tuesday of each month. **Facilitator** Facilitating the OCD support groups is Jim Beer, a dedicated community support worker with expertise in mental health. Jim brings his experience and knowledge to guide the group discussions and ensure a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. **Benefits of OCD Support Group** Support groups for individuals with OCD and their families provide an avenue for comfort, safety, and mutual support. These groups offer participants the opportunity to connect with others who understand their experiences and challenges. Additionally, the support groups serve as a valuable platform for learning more about OCD and its impact. Participants can gain insights into the disorder, its symptoms, and effective coping strategies through shared experiences and discussions. This knowledge empowers individuals to better manage their condition and navigate their daily lives. To register your attendance please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/ocd-support-group ](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/ocd-support-group) For other MHFA support groups please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/) If you need any further information feel free to contact us at supportgroup@mhfa.org.au

**In-person event!** ## **The Reality Check** 90% of organisations are seeing some value from AI, but there is a massive gap between the “experimenters” and the “performers.” Most are stuck in Pilot Purgatory—burning through budgets while boards demand proof of return. *** ## **The Session** We’ve bought out from the United States, **Laks Srinivasan** (CEO, Return on AI Institute) to share with our market the global research the Institute has undertaken and published in Harvard Business Review along with the great AI Native offering for Enterprises from AI-Native by Scaled Agile. 1. **The Research:** Laks Srinivasan (CEO, Return on AI Institute) breaks down a global study of 1,000+ executives. He’ll share the “Value Gap” data—revealing exactly what distinguishes organizations winning with AI from those just spending money. 2. **The Blueprint:** We’ll dive into the Scaled Agile AI-Native system. This isn’t just about tools; it’s about the [AI-Native Foundations](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-foundations) and [Change Agent](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-change-agent) and [Leading the AI-Native Organisation](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-leader). Frameworks that rewire how teams work, from prompt fluency to enterprise-scale workflows and how Executives lead AI Native Enterprises. *** ## **The Mix** **5:00 pm Welcome drinks + nibbles** **5:30 pm Data & Strategy:** * Laks presents the Harvard Business Review global research featured findings and the AI Money Map. **6:00 pm Group Jam** * A facilitated “unfiltered” discussion. We’ll explore how to move from scattered AI insights to an executable, AI-Native strategy. **6:30 pm Mingle with drinks + nibbles** *** ## **What’s in it for you?** * **Executives:** Get the metrics and “Board-ready” data to justify AI spend. * **Leads/Agilists:** See the AI-Native Change Agent roadmap to scale AI beyond small pilots. * **Engineers/PMs & Teams:** Learn how to redesign workflows to be “AI-First” without losing agility with AI-Native Foundations.

\*\* Important RSVP [here](https://www.aicamp.ai/event/eventdetails/W2026051322) (Due to room capacity and venue security, it's required to pre-register at the link for admission). RSVP on Meetup is turned off. **Description:** Join us for a community-led developer event focused on AI-assisted coding with GitHub Copilot. This event brings together developers to explore practical workflows, real-world use cases, and hands-on experiences using GitHub Copilot. Whether you are new to GitHub Copilot or already using it, this event will help you better understand how to apply AI-assisted coding techniques in everyday development. **Tech Talk: GitHub Copilot in Practice** **Speaker:** Scott Holden (Microsoft) **Tech Talk: LLMs, GitHub, and Copilot: Concepts, Capabilities, and Practical Use** **Speaker:** Shehr Yar (G42) **Speakers/Topics:** Stay tuned as we are updating speakers and schedules. If you have a keen interest in speaking to our community, we invite you to submit topics for consideration: [Submit Topics](https://forms.gle/JkMt91CZRtoJBSFUA) **Sponsors:** We are actively seeking sponsors to support AI developers community. Whether it is by offering venue spaces, providing food, or cash sponsorship. Sponsors will not only speak at the meetups, receive prominent recognition, but also gain exposure to our extensive membership base of 5,000+ AI developers in Melbourne and 500K+ worldwide.

## **The Reality Check** 90% of organisations are seeing some value from AI, but there is a massive gap between the “experimenters” and the “performers.” Most are stuck in Pilot Purgatory—burning through budgets while boards demand proof of return. *** ## **The Session** We’ve bought out from the United States, **Laks Srinivasan** (CEO, Return on AI Institute) to share with our market the global research the Institute has undertaken and published in Harvard Business Review along with the great AI Native offering for Enterprises from AI-Native by Scaled Agile. 1. **The Research:** Laks Srinivasan (CEO, Return on AI Institute) breaks down a global study of 1,000+ executives. He’ll share the “Value Gap” data—revealing exactly what distinguishes organizations winning with AI from those just spending money. 2. **The Blueprint:** We’ll dive into the Scaled Agile AI-Native system. This isn’t just about tools; it’s about the [AI-Native Foundations](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-foundations) and [Change Agent](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-change-agent) and [Leading the AI-Native Organisation](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-leader). Frameworks that rewire how teams work, from prompt fluency to enterprise-scale workflows and how Executives lead AI Native Enterprises. *** ## **The Mix** **5:00 pm Welcome drinks + nibbles** **5:30 pm Data & Strategy:** * Laks presents the Harvard Business Review global research featured findings and the AI Money Map. **6:00 pm Group Jam** * A facilitated “unfiltered” discussion. We’ll explore how to move from scattered AI insights to an executable, AI-Native strategy. **6:30 pm Mingle with drinks + nibbles** *** ## **What’s in it for you?** * **Executives:** Get the metrics and “Board-ready” data to justify AI spend. * **Leads/Agilists:** See the AI-Native Change Agent roadmap to scale AI beyond small pilots. * **Engineers/PMs & Teams:** Learn how to redesign workflows to be “AI-First” without losing agility with AI-Native Foundations.

We are a multi-disciplinary group of PhDs and academic staff who write together regularly and help one another to achieve our writing goals through supportive community, focus and a structure that works. We welcome anyone who wants to get some writing done in a collegial, supportive, encouraging environment. You don’t have to be from University of Melbourne (you don’t have to be from university at all!). We use the Pomodoro method, which means we write in timed intervals of silence, then chat and catch up for 5 mins and repeat the cycle. Arrive when you like, leave when you like. The goal is to keep our writing projects progressing and reduce the isolation that can be part of the academic and/or writing life. **Session Outline:** Welcome: 9.00-9.05 (5 mins) Pomodoro 1: 9.05-9.30 (25 mins). Break: 9.30-9.35 (5 mins) Pomodoro 2: 9.35-10.00 (25 mins) Break: 10.00-10.05 (25 mins) Pomodoro 3: 10.05-10.55 (50 mins) Break: 10.55-11.05 (10 mins) Pomodoro 4: 11.05-11.30 (25 mins) **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: There is free public wifi available at the Melbourne Connect Superfloor (speak to the concierge for details). University of Melbourne staff and students can connect to the university wifi; staff and students from other universities can join Eduroam using their home institution's log in credentials. Travel / Parking info: Public bike parking along Swanston and Grattan Streets. Tram routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 16. 16, 64, 67, 72 along Swanston Street (Stop 1) and 19 along Royal Parade (Stop 10). The nearest train station is Parkville Metro Station. Bus routes include 200, 207, 250, 251, 401, 402, 403, 505, 546. There is no public parking available at Melbourne Connect, however the area is well serviced by nearby public carparks, including Cardigan House Parking at 96 Grattan Street and the University of Melbourne Eastern Precinct Car Park at 375 Grattan Street. A taxi rank is located on Grattan Street.

Hello everyone! We’re back with another weekday social chess event at Brick Lane Market next to Queen Vic Market. The perfect spot to cure those early workweek blues. Come and enjoy an after work beer and play some chess with like minded people - its totally free. All skills welcome from beginner to pro - you don't need to be good to join us! Boards, pieces and clocks will be provided. Stay up to date through our socials or WhatsApp community: message me (AJ - 0434409720) and I’ll add you to the chat. Social links IG FB: [https://linktr.ee/MelbourneChessSociety](https://linktr.ee/MelbourneChessSociety)

**ATHEIST SOCIETY** \- Melbourne\, Australia\. ***"Artificial Intelligence".*** **Dr. Ian Storey** will present the topic and lead the discussion. **Venue**: Unitarian Hall, 110 Grey Street East Melbourne. (Adjacent to the Epworth Freemasons Hospital). **Zoom** Meeting ID: 852 9852 4260 Passcode: 249550 All are welcome. Come early to socialise before (and after) the meeting. These hybrid meetings are on the 2nd Thursday of the month, 8pm. Convenor: John Perkins - Tel: 0411 143 744 - **[jlperkins@tpg.com.au](http://jlperkins@tpg.com.au/)** Atheist Society: **[Website](https://reason101.tech/Atheist/Society.htm) \- \- \- [Meetups](https://www.meetup.com/melbourne-atheists/)**

**Description**: Join me to knit or crochet in the warm, friendly environment of Kindred Studios where we can share our skills and ideas. Knitters, crocheters and crafters of all abilities are welcome. The conversation is relaxed as we work on our projects together and it's a great way to make new friends. The Bass Note Cafe is within the studios and will bring great coffee and delicious snacks to our table. **Agenda**: I'll meet you at 10.00am inside Kindred Studios at the large table near the tiered seating. We have the space available until 12.00pm. **Location**: Kindred Studios 3 Harris St Yarraville Street parking is available nearby in Harris, Cowper, Hyde and Whitehall Streets. There are large red signs on the footpath to guide you to Kindred Studios. If you are coming by train take the Williamstown/Werribee line to Seddon Station. It's then about 10 minutes to walk to the Studios. When you RSVP please click attend on the Event Page and I will be in touch via direct message. I will also be available on the Events Comments page on the day. .

E is for Exhibition, and what better exhibition than ROME: Empire, Power, People. After pondering the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, we continue our Italian adventure by exploring the delicious flavours of Italy conveniently located nearby in Carlton: think pasta, pizza, gelato, tiramisu, perhaps a nice espresso or a glass of vino... **ITINERARY** 11am: Meet at the foyer of Melbourne Museum for meet and greet and to purchase your ticket if you haven't done so. Here's the link to purchase your Rome exhibition ticket (includes museum entry): https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/whats-on/rome-empire-power-people/ We will enter as a group but feel free to meander at your own pace as you explore the exhibits. If you only want to visit the museum but not the Rome exhibition, general admission is $18. https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum/tickets/ 12.30pm - Meet back at the foyer to proceed to lunch together. 12.30-2pm - Lunch and coffee in Carlton (exact venue TBC). 2pm - End of event. **NOTE** There is an organizer fee of $10 for this event. Feel free to PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low) or bring cash on the day. **GETTING THERE** The closest train station is Parliament.

Meditation on Twin Hearts is a great way to clear your mind and has been designed by Master Choa Kok Sui to flush out negative thoughts and emotions. This guided meditation is practiced in over 120 countries with proven testimonials of positive transformations on life. It has many proven scientific benefits that include: · Reduction of stress and anxiety · Improved brain waves and enhanced focus, cognitive behaviour and clarity · Improved health and wellbeing At the end of the meditation, you may stay for the free Pranic Healing Clinic. Everyone over the age of 16 years is welcome and is suitable for experienced and new meditators alike. Find us: Calma Spa & Skin Clinic 1100 High St Armadale VIC 3143 For more information visit: [www.phwn.com.au](www.phwn.com.au) Like and subscribe to our socials: **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/pranichealingwithnatalie/)** **[YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_O8il6Ivcdljc8797OS9iQ/videos)** **[TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@pranichealingwithnatalie)** For any inquiries contact: info@phwn.com.au or call: 0478973107 We look forward to welcoming you. Namaste, Natalie

# 🌟 *Breat Procrastination and Staring at The Crowd When at Social Events with Taking a Minimum Viable Step!* Do you want to feel confident stepping into group conversations, knowing exactly what to say, when to say it, and how to build momentum naturally? Do you want a clear structure that makes socialising feel *doable*, while still allowing real, organic, human connection? This session blends **structure with spontaneity**, so you can practise social confidence in a way that actually works for your brain. *** # 💬 **WHAT THIS SESSION IS ABOUT** This is a **guided practice lab** for group interaction. Instead of guessing what to say, you will work with: • specific topics chosen by the group on the day • simple, powerful questions to guide conversation • structured rounds that make it easier to start and continue interactions You are not performing or “being social” on command, you are learning a **repeatable process** that helps you enter conversations naturally and build depth from there. The structure gives you clarity. Your responses stay *real, personal, and fully your own.* *** # 🧠 **WHY THIS WORKS** ## *Minimum Viable Steps (MVS)* Starting conversations is often the hardest part. So instead of forcing yourself to “be social”, we focus on: ### ***Minimum Viable Steps (MVS)*** Small, achievable actions like: • approaching a group • listening for context • asking one simple question • sharing one small response These steps reduce overwhelm and help you build momentum naturally. You are not powering through, you are **following a chain of small wins** that lead into flow. *** # 🔄 **HOW THE SESSION RUNS** This session is structured into **timed rounds (approx. 8 minutes each)**. Each round gives you a clear, simple objective. ## 🔹 *Structured Group Rounds* • You will begin in small groups with a defined topic • Each round includes suggested questions to guide interaction • You are free to respond in your own way, nothing scripted ## 🔹 *Rotations* At the end of each round: • two people rotate out of each group • each joins a different group This creates: • clarity on where to go next • repeated practice starting new conversations • exposure to different dynamics and people *No guessing. No awkward hovering. Just clear next steps.* *** # 💡 **TOPICS & QUESTIONS** At the start of the session, we will: • gather topics participants are genuinely interested in • write them down and use them throughout the rounds Each round will include **simple, open questions** related to the topic, designed to: • spark conversation easily • create direction without rigidity • allow natural sharing and depth You follow the structure, but what you share is always your own. *** # 🌱 **WHAT YOU WILL PRACTISE** • starting conversations decisively (again and again) • entering groups with clarity instead of hesitation • listening before contributing • asking simple questions that open conversation • building flow through small, manageable steps • rotating between groups with confidence • staying present without overwhelm Over time, this becomes **automatic**. *** # 📝 **BEFORE & AFTER** At the beginning: • you will complete a short reflection on meaningful connection in your life At the end: • you will share what worked, what did not, and what could be improved This helps shape future sessions based on what actually supports you. *** # 👋 **A NOTE FROM THE FACILITATOR** This is not about being the most confident person in the room. It is about learning a structure that helps you: • take action • reduce overwhelm • build real connection step by step You do not need to get it perfect. ## ***You just need to take the next small step.***

Hi all, us at NeuroSparks are having another fortnightly meeting and we'd love to see you there! When: the 16th of May (Saturday) from 12:30-3:30PM. Where: we will be meeting at the Majorca Room at the City Library. Access to the room is via a lift or steps in the foyer. The City Library is located at 253 Flinders Lane, right next to Flinders Street/Town Hall Station. This social gathering will be for those looking to connect with others in the community. It'll be a very casual setting, where everyone can be themselves and can and go when they feel like it. For anyone wanting to continue socialising after the room booking ends, we encourage you to get out and hit the town together! **People are welcome to bring food/drinks to the event. Conveniently for us, there is a cafe on the library's ground floor and there are many cafes also nearby on Degraves Street! But for the sake of continuing to use the venue, please tidy up after yourself.** This event is open to all neurodivergent people and anyone who values a friendly, inclusive space. Many attendees come on their own, so if you’re feeling a bit hesitant, know you’ll be in good company and warmly welcomed. If the group/noise feels too overwhelming at any point, there is a silent study room next door to decompress in. If at any point you have concerns or feel uncomfortable about any group member, please notify one of the organisers. **For the purposes of not overwhelming attendees, we will be capping RSVPs at 50 people maximum. If you have RSVP’d and can no longer attend, please cancel your booking, to allow others to attend. If you sign up for the waitlist and Meetup prompts you to pay, please ignore this, as this event is not intended to be paid for.** Looking forward to seeing all of you there! Disclaimer & Safety Notice By attending this Meetup, you agree: • Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. • Organisers are community volunteers, not medical or professional providers. • You are responsible for your own safety, choices, and belongings. • Organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage at any time. • If you have health or access needs, please make your own arrangements. • In an emergency, call 000 immediately. By joining, you accept full responsibility for your actions and well-being.

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** TBD **YouTube Link** TBD

This meetup is a beginner-friendly session introducing version control for Unity projects, with a look at three common tools: Git, Perforce, and Unity Version Control. The goal is to help you understand what version control is, why it matters for Unity development, and what options are out there. The format will likely be presentation-style, with live demos and time for questions throughout. You'll see each tool in action and learn how they fit into a Unity workflow. What to Expect: * An introduction to version control and why it's essential for Unity projects * An overview of Git, Perforce, and Unity Version Control * Demos of each tool in a Unity workflow * Tips for getting started * No prior version control experience required * Resources for continued learning All experience levels are welcome. Whether you're new to version control or already using one of these tools, this session will help you understand what each one offers. Food and drinks provided. Join us to learn more about version control options for Unity.

Join Neurospicy Columbus at the Stauff's for coffee and then a stroll through the Book Loft nearby! This will be a friendly chat for like minded individuals with Autism and/or ADHD (or somewhere on the Neurodiverse Spectra).

At Unity of Columbus, our Youth and Family Ministry nurtures the spiritual growth of children and families through love, joy, and practical spiritual teachings. Each Sunday, children explore timeless spiritual principles through stories, creative activities, music, and group sharing in a safe and welcoming environment. Our program encourages children to discover their own inner light, express kindness, and develop a personal connection with God. Together, we celebrate diversity, cultivate understanding, and inspire each child to live with purpose and compassion. Parents and families are invited to join in this uplifting journey of learning, laughter, and spiritual connection.

Practical AI for Power BI Developers A year ago, “agentic AI” was mostly hype for Power BI teams. Today, it deserves your undivided attention. For Power BI pros, there is now a real opportunity to reduce repetitive development work, accelerate delivery, and help developers do more, but only when strong DataOps practices are in place to make AI workflows effective. This session is a no-nonsense introduction to effective AI patterns for Power BI and Fabric development. Along the way, we will make sense of the growing pile of terminology, including skills, plugins, hooks, and MCP. You will see examples of how modern AI tooling can help with development tasks across Power BI and Fabric, along with the prerequisites, guardrails, and DataOps principles needed to use it responsibly. Whether you're burned out on AI hype or already using Copilot CLI daily, this session will show you the foundations that are finally making AI-assisted development genuinely useful.

Join us every 3rd Sunday of the month right after the Sunday Service for our Potluck Fellowship — a warm and welcoming time to connect, share, and celebrate community together! Bring your favorite dish to share (homemade or store-bought — all are welcome) and enjoy a delicious meal with friends old and new. It’s a wonderful opportunity to relax, laugh, and deepen your connections. Come hungry for good food, uplifting conversation, and heartfelt fellowship!

Join us for a practical, beginner-friendly guide to choosing the right large language model. We’ll compare major models like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and Llama, talk about when to use hosted APIs versus local models, and break down the tradeoffs around cost, speed, quality, privacy, context windows, coding ability, and reliability. You’ll leave with a clearer mental model for picking an LLM based on your actual use case instead of hype, benchmarks, or brand names. No deep AI background required. LOGISTICS AND PARKING: The talk starts at 7:00 PM. The first half hour is reserved for everyone to get set up and mingle. Free pizza and drinks! The cheapest parking option is to find street parking, which will only cost you a few bucks. Otherwise, park in the nearby veteran's museum lot for $8. It's highly recommended you avoid the nearby $15 garage parking.