Collaboration

Smashing! Try something new Thursday Interactive workshop - Become the charismatic leader Serious about improving your leadership - **Why mess, come to the best** Why is Smashing different to other speaking clubs? Passion!!! 1\. Fast\-paced\, energized and exciting meets 2\. We practice **bold, confident** and **dynamic** leadership! 3. **Everyone talks** multiple times during super-interactive workshops every meet - Plus the chance to speak on the big stage for those that are keen 4. **FAST LEARNING** **Free parking** close-by: O'Connell and Cobden streets **IMPORTANT: Be on time, as doors close when the show starts** “Proudly Australian" – Free-flowing leadership & teamwork Multicultural Hub, 506 Elizabeth St (Opposite Queen Vic Market) Level 1, Purple Room (End of corridor) More to come...

Excited to announce our new ADVANCED openplay session during the week at KCARC! Welcome to Melbourne Volleyball Academy. 🤗 **[[WHAT]]** This session is specifically for games only (no training). There will be a cap of 18 players, allowing for 3 teams of 6. Games will be played to 15 points, with a cap at 18 points. These games are intended to be played at a high-intermediate(BB)/advanced(A) level. Please see an explanation of skill levels on our website here: [https://melbournevolleyballacademy.com.au/skill-levels-explained](https://melbournevolleyballacademy.com.au/skill-levels-explained) **[[WHO]]** The session is intended for Intermediate players. Players should be able to: * Have strong fundamentals for all volleyball techniques * Serve receive a majority of serves well & serve over the net consistently * Basic understanding of 5-1, and 6-2 systems (we do not play a pass middle 4-2 system in this session) * Have an understanding of base defense * Know all/most volleyball rules Players that are not of the intermediate(BB)/advanced(A) level will be asked to leave as we want to ensure that all players have an enjoyable time playing. **[[HOW MUCH $$]]** $21 card payment will be processed on the day via square reader (EFTPOS). **[[WHEN]]** The stadium is booked from 6:30 PM-9:30 PM weekly, every Thursday. However, feel free to come early and stretch as the Community Centre 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 advanced if they are unable to attend. This applies to players on the going list and the waitlist. **[[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 into the gymnasium.

Overcome Your Fear of Public Speaking with Southbank Toastmasters! Ready to transform nerves into confidence? Join us for a fun, interactive workshop to: ✨ Conquer your fear of speaking 💡 Learn pro tips from experienced mentors 📈 Boost your business and career through powerful communication Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned speaker, this is your chance to grow, connect, and shine! 🌟 Don’t miss out—step up to the mic and join us! 🎤

## [⭐](https://emojipedia.org/star)[🏐](https://emojipedia.org/volleyball)Welcome to our Volleyball Days community[🏐](https://emojipedia.org/volleyball)[⭐](https://emojipedia.org/star)### This event is an open gymnasium for 3 hours of pick up volleyball. Bring friends or come alone. This is a great place to socialise and meet new people and play volleyball. 📢\*\*Open to all levels. Attendees normally come from different groups so numbers won't be represented properly on this platform. Please click attending so we know roughly how many to expect from meetup Thanks for checking out our community :) We currently run multiple open gym sessions a week 1. Wednesday 7-10 PM @ Waverley Christian College 2. Thursday 5:30-8 PM @ Waverley Christian College 3. Friday 7-10PM @ Templestowe College 4. Saturday 11:15 AM-1:30 @ Waverley Christian College 5. Saturday 7-10 PM @ Waverley Christian College 6. Saturday 7-10 PM @ Templestowe College 7. Sunday 3:30-6:30 PM @ Templestowe College We also run social competitions in the local area which you can sign up via our website: [https://volleyballdays.com/](https://volleyballdays.com/) You can also find out more about us on our socials: IG [https://www.instagram.com/volleyball_days/](https://www.instagram.com/volleyball_days/) FB Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/696596697166901](https://www.facebook.com/groups/696596697166901) FB Group Training [https://www.facebook.com/groups/volleyball.days.training](https://www.facebook.com/groups/volleyball.days.training) FB Girls Training [https://www.facebook.com/groups/1589458368554545](https://www.facebook.com/groups/1589458368554545) FB page [https://www.facebook.com/volleyballdays](https://www.facebook.com/volleyballdays) YT [https://www.youtube.com/@volleyballdays/featured](https://www.youtube.com/@volleyballdays/featured)

Looking to get outside, clear your head, and connect with good people? Join us for a relaxed walk around the beautiful streets and coastline of Port Melbourne. This is a casual meetup—no fitness goals, no pressure. Just a friendly stroll, good conversation, and a reason to step away from screens and into the fresh air. Whether you’re new in town, working from home, or just want a social reason to walk, you’re very welcome. Come as you are. Comfy shoes, water bottle, and curiosity are all you need. **Optional:** After the walk, some of us might grab a coffee nearby — feel free to join if you’re up for it!

**🙋‍♀️**Welcome to our Thursday LATINO language ​exchange meetup.in Partnership with Ms Collins Latin Fiesta, Meet Latinos from many countries and make new friends. **👉We always have between 200 - 250 people attending our Thursday event since this event is listed in 3 different meetup groups.** 👉This is a great opportunity to learn to speak English/Spanish with native and non-native speakers. Many Latino speakers, Europeans, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and other Asians attend our fun and friendly party. 🍺: Discounted 15% house beers and wines 🍸: Extra cost for cocktails and spirit 🍲: Food available is to purchase at the bar with 15% discount on menu. 👉**Fee** of **$4.50** to be paid at the entrance. Dancing: After party is at MSCOLLINS LATIN FIEST FREE ENTRY WITH WRSITBANDS COLLECTED FROM THE EVENT AT DIESEL.MSCOLLINS FIEST IS $10 AFTER 10PM. MS COLLINS 🆔 Please carry a Photo ID as you may be asked at the entrance. 👉**Location**: Upstairs at Diesel Bar

Join us for a relaxed networking drinks with other couples who value meaningful conversation, intentional living, and want to work on a business or a project together (or already are). This isn’t your average couples’ Meetup. 💡 **Please note:** This event is specifically for couples attending together. RSVPs without a +1 (partner) will be cancelled to keep the balance of the group. 📅 **il Mercato Centrale Melbourne** **📍 Limited to 10 couples** so grab your spot early 🍷**Happy Hour** drink specials from 5:00pm **💬 Conversation Starters** Each time we meet includes a few rotating topics to spark insight and great chats: * A habit that made your life better as a couple * A travel story with a twist (funny, unique, or unexpected) * Something you’re learning right now * A tip on how to work with your partner's personality and communication styles No need to prep, just come ready to connect. We’ll mix up seating halfway through so you meet more than just the couple beside you. **🧠 Who This Is For** * Couples into growth, learning, and intentional living * Those building something together, or who want to * People who want deeper connection, not surface-level chat This isn’t networking. It’s real people and real convos. Just bring yourselves, curiosity, and an open mind. We’ll take care of the rest. **👥 Hosted by Matt & Justine Stuckings** Matt & Justine are the kind of couple who live for deep chats over food, spontaneous adventures, and connecting with people who live life on purpose. Matt’s a 6’4 ex-photographer turned marketer and entrepreneur. He’s into Pickleball, boutique breweries, and discovering weird restaurants and books that make life (and business) better. If it helps him grow or gets him thinking differently, he’s probably already into it. Justine’s a connector at heart. She’s a uni teacher and entrepreneur who loves mentoring, dancing, dark hot chocolate, and surrounding herself with people who think big and care deeply. Together, they host events that feel relaxed but intentional, welcoming but meaningful. They started this event to find more of their people. Curious, kind, growth-minded couples who want more than just small talk.

🏐 **Weekly Social Volleyball is Back!** 📍 **Footscray High School – Barkly Campus** We’re back with our weekly social volleyball games and bringing the energy 🔥 🕠 **Gates open:** 5:30 PM (warm-ups) ⏰ **Games:** 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM 🏟️ **3 courts available** * 2 × **Advanced** * 1 × **Intermediate** You’re welcome to come solo or bring a group of friends — everyone’s welcome! 🎟️ **Tickets required** Please purchase your ticket in advance at **vr1volley.org.au/tickets** ❌ No walk-ins accepted 🎒 **What to bring:** * Indoor volleyball shoes * Water bottle * Shorts & t-shirt (it can get hot!) Get ready for competitive games, good vibes, and quality volleyball all night 💙🏐

Weather looks reasonable good on Sunday. Participants are invited to join us for a walk and talk about science, philosophy and technology. We will also have time for coffee & a bite to eat afterwards at The Abbotsford Convent. ## Details **Schedule** **10 am** – Meet at or near the Rotunda at the [Studley Park Boathouse Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Studley+Park+Boathouse+and+Picnic+Area/@-37.8010746,145.0099524,19.5z/data=!3m1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m22!1m16!4m15!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad64390ba3131a7:0xf0456760531db00!2sFairfield+Park+Boathouse+%26+Tea+Gardens,+Fairfield+Park+Dr,+Fairfield+VIC+3078!2m2!1d145.0137071!2d-37.78518!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!2sAbbotsford+Convent,+1+St+Heliers+St,+Abbotsford+VIC+3067!2m2!1d145.0028144!2d-37.80269!3e2!3m4!1s0x0:0xc5b4e7f2ffed7da1!8m2!3d-37.8007946!4d145.0093501) near the boathouse **10.30 am –** Saunter across [Kanes Bridge](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kanes+Bridge/@-37.8001395,145.0095086,19.5z/data=!3m1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m22!1m16!4m15!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad64390ba3131a7:0xf0456760531db00!2sFairfield+Park+Boathouse+%26+Tea+Gardens,+Fairfield+Park+Dr,+Fairfield+VIC+3078!2m2!1d145.0137071!2d-37.78518!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!2sAbbotsford+Convent,+1+St+Heliers+St,+Abbotsford+VIC+3067!2m2!1d145.0028144!2d-37.80269!3e2!3m4!1s0x6ad643a61948cd11:0xa29da82fe9e81dcb!8m2!3d-37.8000822!4d145.0096953) towards [the convent](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Abbotsford+Convent/@-37.8026857,145.0006257,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!8m2!3d-37.80269!4d145.0028144) via [Dights Falls loop trail](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Dights+Falls+Loop+Trail/@-37.8002318,145.0089975,18.17z/data=!3m1!5s0x6ad647468a8e6d4b:0x8bec09a48fc2782d!4m22!1m16!4m15!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad64390ba3131a7:0xf0456760531db00!2sFairfield+Park+Boathouse+%26+Tea+Gardens,+Fairfield+Park+Dr,+Fairfield+VIC+3078!2m2!1d145.0137071!2d-37.78518!1m6!1m2!1s0x6ad6430738fab4cd:0xdb76f953991f8b47!2sAbbotsford+Convent,+1+St+Heliers+St,+Abbotsford+VIC+3067!2m2!1d145.0028144!2d-37.80269!3e2!3m4!1s0x6ad643b6fb99244d:0x4653bb18d09f4f95!8m2!3d-37.7984944!4d145.0074445), observing stunning views of Yarra river (including Dights Falls, urban graffiti, inner suburb farms and more) **12.30** – Hang out at the convent for coffee and a bite to eat. **Topics can include:** – How epistemics (inc science) makes progress – Health, wellness and how to live a good life – Metaethics / ethics – Moral progress and indirect normativity – Latest trends in AI – Economic impacts of AGI, automation, unbounded inequality – UBI - Basic income and universal wealth redistribution – Likelihood of future doom or utopia – Human augmentation, hacking human potential – AI interpretability – ChatGPT, Gemini, ClaudeAI – Automated persuasion, AI dark arts – Future directions in AI – Plato’s cave – Fun theory, value theory Nietzsche: "**All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.** From the process of creative self-discovery one emerges an artist. More often than not, our internal spiritual restoration is accompanied by a physical transformation." Plenty of parking. [Here is an example of how to get there via public transport](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Flinders+Street+Railway+Station,+Flinders+Street,+Melbourne+VIC/1+Boathouse+Rd,+Kew+VIC+3101/@-37.8078241,144.9758788,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m19!4m18!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad642b6af832249:0xe39e415e49a7c44e!2m2!1d144.9670618!2d-37.8182711!1m5!1m1!1s0x6ad643a898057765:0xc5b4e7f2ffed7da1!2m2!1d145.0093501!2d-37.8007946!2m3!6e1!7e2!8j1676109600!3e3!5i1). Sometimes philosophy discussions feel quite sedentary – hence our experiment to cross pollinate exercise and engaging discussions on philosophy. Exertion of both the mind and body at the same time may lead to a fascinating dynamic. A sedentary lifestyle (and by association, philosophy) has been linked to mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Ease the anxieties of the armchair philosopher engaging in mental gymnastics with minimal muscle movement – join our raggle-taggle crew of aspiring philosophers walking the talk! Healthy body, healthy mind! Note, bring elemental protection (umbrellas, sunscreen etc)

There will be a cap of 18 players, allowing 3 teams of 6. Games will be played to 15 points. These games are intended to be played at an intermediate to advanced level. $8 per person if you wouldn't mind! 😁🙏 Account name: Tam Nguyen BSB: 067873 Account number: 12770014 Or PayID: 0481463419 *Make sure to attach YOUR name!* RSVP opens each Friday at 10:00pm Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play.

**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 1.00pm inside Kindred Studios at the large table near the tiered seating. We have the space available until 3.00pm. **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. .

Welcome to Melbourne Volleyball Academy! 🤗 **[[WHAT]]** This session is for social volleyball games where there will be 3 teams of 6. Please arrive on time as there will warm-up time provided for 15-20 minutes at 11 AM. **[[WHO]]** The session is intended for social volleyball players at the beginner/intermediate level. Players should: * Understand basic volleyball rules (3 touches, foot faults, etc.) * Call for the ball when playing and communicate well * Ready to learn (or already know) 5-1 system * Efficient in passing/hitting/setting/serving If you are uncomfortable with the base fundamentals, we recommend coming to our beginner training sessions on Friday 6-9PM or Saturday 2-5PM. **[[HOW MUCH]]** $21 card payment will be collected on the day via square (EFTPOS) payment. **[[WHEN]]** Saturday afternoon from 11 AM- 2 PM. However, feel free to come early and stretch as the Community Centre 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 **[[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.

☕ **Girl Who Boss Coffee Catchup!** ☕ We don't usually do this, but with several of our events selling out in advance and because we're still in the "new year, new us" mood, we decided to create a last minute, spontaneous coffee catchup - for anyone still looking for some Saturday morning plans. Join us for a relaxed and casual coffee catchup, where like-minded women come together to connect, chat, and share ideas! Whether you're a career professional, entrepreneur, or creative, this is the perfect chance to meet other inspiring women in a welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

We will be meeting at Starbucks to learn together. Come with an online class you're already going through or an interest and we will try to connect you with a course where you can learn it. Already have a skill you want to contribute to a Kaggle Datascience competition? We will work on these too! Laptop required :)

After a short break, Pitch Labs is back with the first event of the 2026 season. Styled after a 'pitch competition', this event is for entrepreneurs, and the entrepreneurial-curious. Learn about on-going initiatives from local area founders, and there will be ample time for networking. This event will bring together start-up founders and enthusiasts in the DMV area for an exciting opportunity to hear about a fellow founder, and give feedback on their pitch and product, and get to network around founders from the area. Location: 10300 Eaton Place, Fairfax VA - many thanks to our venue sponsor Fairfax Country Economic Development **Our Agenda:** 1\. Basic group introductions 2\. First "Pitch" Presentation \(\~15 minutes\) 3\. Community Q&A 4\. Second "Pitch" Presentation \(\~15 minutes\) 5\. Community Q&A 6\. Break out sessions & general networking More information will be provided as we get closer to the meetup. **Speakers** TBD Parking will be shared before the event. Pitch Labs is a member of the [DMV Petri Dish Network](https://www.dmvpetridish.com/ "https://www.dmvpetridish.com/")

✨ Join us for our **3rd Saturday Social Ballroom Dance** and step into an evening filled with friendly dancers and the extraordinary musical DJ and Instructor talent of **Michael Sims**, where you can sign up for dances with Michael during the evening! **7:30 - 8:30 PM: Bachata Dance lesson by** **Michael Sims, of Lite on Your Feet Dancing.** **8:30 - 10:30 PM: Ballroom Dance music by Michael Sims.** $15 (cash or check) includes the lesson plus the dance, cold water and special scrumptious snacks this evening. Dress is Ballroom Casual. Please no cutoffs, T-shirts or jeans. Dress to Impress! No experience, reservations or partner needed. All Singles Welcome!! 1,850 sq. ft. beautiful oak dance floor. Plenty of free, safe parking ## Questions? Find Colvin Run at [http://www.colvinrun.org](http://www.colvinrun.org) or visit [http://www.meetup.com/colvinrun-org/](http://www.meetup.com/colvinrun-org/) or contact [Kathy.Milks@ColvinRun.org](mailto:Kathy.Milks@colvinrun.org) Please go to our **[website](https://www.colvinrun.org/the-events/calendar)** [calendar](https://www.colvinrun.org/the-events/calendar) for all dances at Colvin Run Dance Hall.

## **1 Million Cups Loudoun Workshop: How AI Can Work for Your Business** **Wednesday\, January 28 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun – Ashburn** Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword — it’s a practical tool that businesses of all sizes can begin using today. Join **1 Million Cups Loudoun** for a special **workshop-style presentation** led by **Victor Meer of AI Prime** and **Jay Jay Billings of Band Gap AI**, designed to help entrepreneurs understand how AI can realistically support their business operations. This workshop will provide: * A clear, practical overview of what AI actually is * Real-world examples of how businesses are using AI today * Insight into where automation can save time and reduce friction * Guidance on how to start leveraging AI without needing technical expertise Whether you’re AI-curious, overwhelmed by the noise, or ready to explore automation in your business, this session will help you think clearly about where AI fits — and where it doesn’t. As always, coffee, conversation, and community are at the heart of 1 Million Cups Loudoun. ### What Is 1 Million Cups? 1 Million Cups is a national program powered by the Kauffman Foundation that brings together entrepreneurs and community members for weekly conversations that educate, support, and inspire. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Join us on **January 14 at 9:00 AM** for coffee, connection, and a meaningful conversation about reimagining after-school education in Loudoun County. **We look forward to seeing you there.**

This volleyball game is for BB/A or higher level players. Everyone will be on waitlist first and one day before the game I will move players in.

Join us for another session of our study group as we dive into the fascinating world of Large Language Models (LLMs) using the book **Build a Large Language Model from Scratch** from Manning. In this session, we will finish **Chapter 7: Fine-tuning to follow instructions**. In the last session, we talked about how to prepare the dataset for instruction fine-tuning and in this session we will perform the fine-tuning and evaluate the model afterwards. This isn't just a lecture! Come ready to ask questions, share insights, and code along. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, this is the perfect opportunity to build a strong foundation together. If you plan to work with the code on your own laptop during the session, try and set-up the environment ahead of time (https://github.com/rasbt/LLMs-from-scratch/tree/main/setup). We will be meeting at the North County Governmental Center this time that is across from the Reston public library.