Community Organizations

**CERES Community Park – Merri River Trail** It’s time we explored a new trail! So this week we are heading over to Brunswick and will walk the Merri River Trail. The **CERES Community and Environmental Park** is on the banks of the Merri River and the trail runs alongside the Merri River. We walk as far as Bell Street, then back for coffee at the Merri Café. **Start:** CERES Park, corner of **Roberts and Stewart Streets**, Brunswick East. Meet just inside the gate. Look for the red umbrella! **Start time:** 9.00 AM **Parking:** There is parking at the CERES Park. But if it is crowded, park anywhere in the surrounding streets. Allow 10 minutes to walk back to the START. **The Walk**: The walk follows the Merri Creek north to Bell Street, Brunswick then back the same trail to the start. **Total distance**: 5.0 km. (approx.) **Time:** Allow 2.0 hours for the walk, plus half hour for coffee. Total 2.5 hours. **Difficulty:** Easy **Toilets:** At the start. **Coffee:** Merri Café located adjacent to the visitor centre.

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

Come along to Andrew's birthday karaoke with dinner at 7pm (both optional) at Customs House Hotel Williamstown. So first part is optional dinner. Table is booked under Andrew Goodwin and my number is 0424453134 if anybody needs to contact me. Here is a copy of the menu. [https://www.customshousehotel.com.au/eat](https://www.customshousehotel.com.au/eat) Then after optional dinner there is optional karaoke. Best to come through a bit before karaoke starts to write down a song or two or more before 9pm to make sure you get in a song or two basically if you're singing. PLEASE NOTE SINGING IS TOTALLY OPTIONAL AND YOU CAN SING AS MANY SONGS AS YOU LIKE (IF ANY) OR JUST CHOOSE TO WATCH ON ALL NIGHT. YOU WILL NOT BE PRESSURED INTO SINGING BASICALLY ANYWAY. IN REALITY WHAT HAPPENS IS SOME PEOPLE WILL NEVER SING BUT SOME OTHERS SEE OTHERS SINGING AND DECIDE TO SING ANYWAY EVEN THOUGH THEY DON'T NORMALLY SING. SO THAT'S JUST THE REALITY OF IT ALL. #### Karaoke hosted by T.D.K.S Entertainment **9pm till late** Let your hair down & be the star! Run by awesome fun loving girls. Over 38,000 songs updated regularly. Event cohosted by Martin Carr. Plenty of parking around and about a 5 minute walk from Williamstown Station and the trains run all night so a good option if you like a few light refreshments. PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS ON MULTIPLE GROUPS.

We will get-together at the KereKere cafe - at the community table just inside the cafe entrance. *This is a group for people with intermediate and advanced level French who are able to engage in a conversation en français. It is not suitable for beginners.* The cafe is close to the corner of Wellington Parade and Lansdowne St, East Melbourne in the Fitzroy Gardens. It takes about 5 minutes on Tram 75 from Flinders St Station, or 15 minute walk. Car parking around Fitzroy Gardens on Sundays now is $2 per hour with a 4 hour limit, Some parking is limited to 1 hour even on Sunday. And occasionally, if there is a game at the MCG for example there might not be much parking at all. Price: The event fee is $4.00 - cash necessary! . and please be sure you are a member of MyFrenchLife.org before attending reunion - merci https://www.MyFrenchLife.org. The event fees are transferred to MyFrenchLife contributing to the meetup platform - thank you. À bientôt ! Veronica and Daniel Réunion Hosts MyFrenchLife.org

🌟 **How To** **Be A Social Butterfly And...** ### *Practice Group Conversations the Neurodivergent Way!!* Do you ever watch people effortlessly move between groups at events and wonder how they do it? Do you want to feel confident joining conversations, adding thoughtful insights, and creating real connection without forcing yourself to perform? This session is a practice lab for learning how to navigate groups with awareness, curiosity, and genuine presence. *** 💬 **What This Session Is About** In many social spaces the real skill is not talking more. The real skill is **listening deeply and adding value at the right moment**. In this workshop we explore how to become the kind of person who can enter conversations naturally, understand what people are really talking about, and contribute something meaningful. This workshop helps you practise: • listening to the context of a conversation before speaking • noticing what people might be missing, needing, or feeling • adding thoughtful insight at the right moment • asking powerful questions that deepen the discussion • recognising whether a group needs ideas, empathy, energy, or curiosity When you listen carefully enough, what you say can land in a way that makes people pause and think "That was thoughtful. I never considered that before." *** 🧠 **The Real Secret of Working a Room** Many people believe social success in groups comes from talking about themselves or trying to impress others. In reality the opposite is true. People remember the person who **added value** to the conversation. Sometimes that value is an idea. Sometimes it is a thoughtful question. Sometimes it is simply recognising and validating the emotion behind what someone is sharing. We will practise learning to notice: • what people are talking about intellectually • what emotions might be underneath the conversation • when someone might need empathy and space • when someone might want energetic discussion and ideas Different groups need different things. The skill is learning to sense what will help the most. *** 🔄 **How the Session Runs** The meetup is divided into two practical phases. ***\-\-\-\-\-\-First half: spontaneous mingling practice\-\-\-\-\-\-*** Participants will move between small groups and practise: • listening in before speaking • understanding the context of the discussion • contributing thoughtfully at the right moment • experimenting with adding value to different conversations This is about observing group dynamics and learning what people might actually need in that moment. ***\-\-\-\-\-\-Second half: intentional group navigation\-\-\-\-\-\-*** In the second phase we practise approaching groups with intention. You might enter a group with a simple internal goal such as: • learning something about a topic • contributing helpful insight • building a meaningful connection • supporting someone who seems unheard But the key principle is this: * **you pursue the goal by giving value rather than trying to take something.** When people feel that you are trying to extract attention, approval, or connection, the interaction often feels draining. When people feel that you are offering curiosity, attention, insight, or encouragement, the interaction becomes energising. Your focus becomes listen carefully understand what might help and offer that freely without expecting anything in return. *** 🌱 **What You Will Practise** • joining conversations in a natural, respectful way • reading group dynamics and energy • deciding when to contribute and when to listen • asking questions that deepen discussion • recognising when a group values empathy versus ideas • moving between groups without feeling awkward • adding genuine value to conversations You will begin to notice that when you read people accurately and contribute something meaningful, their energy changes. They lean in. They become more animated. They remember you. Real connections start to form because **you helped bring the conversation to life.** *** 👋 **A Note From the Facilitator** As an autistic and neurodivergent coach I once found group conversations extremely confusing. Through years of practice in recruitment, interviewing, social events, friendships, and coaching, I realised that group interaction is not a personality trait. It is a learnable skill. This session is about experimenting, observing, and practising that skill together in a supportive environment. Progress matters more than perfection. If by the end of the evening you understand a little more about how to listen, add value, and navigate groups with confidence, that is a meaningful step forward. *** 📝 **Before and After** You will be invited to optionally share: • what feels hardest about group conversations • what situations tend to overwhelm you socially • what kind of interactions you would love to feel more confident in At the end we will gather feedback so future sessions can evolve based on what participants actually find most helpful. The goal is not to perform. The goal is to **learn how to bring energy, curiosity, and value into the spaces you enter.** * ***And when you do that, people remember you for it.....*** ***No more dead end numbers and contact cards....*** ***Stoke real connection, with real skills and practice.***

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

Sunday arvo, $7 pints, live music, what more could you want! Rocky Ridge Brewery, which has taken over from Thunder Road Brewery, offers a bunch of boutique craft beers. So come join us for a drink or three and banter!

**About this event:** Have you been dreaming of going tiny? Are you curious about minimal living, off-grid setups, or just downsizing your life in Victoria? You are not alone! We are launching a new community for enthusiasts to connect, share stories, and support one another. (Please book ticket in EventBrite [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/monthly-minimal-living-meetup-tiny-home-tickets-1983064391979?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) ) Imagine a life with less clutter, less debt, and more freedom. We are building a community in Victoria for those who want to step away from the traditional housing market and embrace tiny homes and minimal living. For our first-ever meetup, we are keeping it simple. We’ll meet in the park to introduce ourselves and discuss what we want to create together. Whether you want to talk about the technical side (trailers, solar, regulations) or the lifestyle side (downsizing, remote work), this is the place to start. Come along, make new friends, and let’s talk about how to make big dreams happen in tiny spaces. Please book your ticket https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/monthly-minimal-living-meetup-tiny-home-tickets-1983064391979?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl **What to expect:** This is a strictly casual, unstructured meetup. No presentations, no sales pitches, and no pressure. Just a relaxed afternoon in the park with like-minded people. We’re simply gathering to discuss: * Who is already living the tiny life? * Who is dreaming/planning? * What are the local hurdles (council rules, finding land, etc.)? * How can we support each other? **Who should come:** Whether you have your tiny house plans drawn up, you're already living in one, or you just watched a documentary and thought "I could do that"—you are welcome here. **What to bring:** * A camping chair or picnic rug. * Your own snacks/drinks. * Sun protection (or an umbrella—it is Melbourne/Victoria after all!). **About Your Host** Hi, I’m Karen. After exploring over 50 countries, I’ve chosen Melbourne as my home. As an entrepreneur, I’ve come to realize that we don't need much to be truly happy. In fact, nature provides us with so many "free luxuries"—from sunlight to green spaces—that we often overlook in the modern world. I am channeling this philosophy into building my own tiny home in Victoria this year. I started this group because I realized that while the tiny house movement is growing, the journey can feel a bit lonely. I want to build a supportive local community where we can share resources, untangle the regulations, and help each other turn these small dreams into reality. * **Wet Weather Plan:** (e.g., "If it rains, we will move to a cafe close by.")

Joins us for a walk through Burnley Gardens followed by lunch at the Bridge Hotel. Burnley Gardens are located inside at the Burnley Campus of the University of Melbourne. It has over 22 self-guided stops, you’ll discover the gardens' history, design principles and current uses, and learn about the rare plants, specific garden beds, historical events, iconic trees and modern elements of green infrastructure featured. Parking is available on Yarra Boulevard or FR Smith Drive. We meet at 11:00 am in front of the Summer House building, which is the #1 stop at self guided tour of the gardens. The Summer House building is located near Main building (Reception). Here is google map pin: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/KR6DL2hhHPYEJ11U9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KR6DL2hhHPYEJ11U9) From there we walk (or drive) to the Bridge Hotel (642 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121) for the lunch. The table will be booked for 12:30. So if you can't make it to the garden you are welcome to join us only for the lunch.

TO MAINTAIN A GENDER BALANCE ALL MALES MUST ATTEND WITH A FEMALE FRIEND, NO EXCEPTIONS. All females are welcome to attend alone but encouraged to attend with a female friend too for free drinks and food! MUST TAP “ATTEND” and include all guests. UNLIKE other meetups which are overwhelmingly male dominant, we provide ONLY gender balanced events where females also have a chance to meet other females, not only men. WE ARE COMMITTED TO EQUAL GENDER REPRESENTATION IN THE IT INDUSTRY. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

Free at Bexley Library Adventures in Ecological Horticulture with Rebecca McMackin Wednesday, March 18 1:00pm - 2:30pm Gone are the days when a garden could be ornamental alone. We now recognize the impact that our land care practices have on the ecosystems around us, and can see the importance of encouraging biodiversity. Thankfully, we do not need to sacrifice beauty when we invite butterflies and songbirds into our gardens. Rebecca McMackin has cultivated gorgeous landscapes in the toughest environments possible: urban parks, school playgrounds, and the sidewalks of New York City. She will take lessons from her work at Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Museum, and decades of research to share how those of us who are fortunate enough to care for land, can do it beautifully and ecologically. Rebecca McMackin is an ecologically obsessed horticulturist and garden designer. She writes, lectures, and teaches on ecological landscape management and pollination ecology, as well as designs the rare public garden. She is currently Lead Horticulturist for the American Horticultural Society, an Associate with the Harvard Divinity School’s Thinking with Plants and Fungi Initiative, and Consulting Arboretum Curator for Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, NY. Rebecca spent a decade as Director of Horticulture of Brooklyn Bridge Park, where she managed 85 acres of diverse parkland organically. Their research into cultivating urban biodiversity and ethical management strategies has influenced thousands of people and entire urban parks systems to adopt similar approaches. She has been published by and featured in the New York Times, Gardens Illustrated, on NPR and PBS. Her garden for the Brooklyn Museum recently won the PPA’s Award of Excellence and her TED Talk has been viewed over a million times. She holds M.Sc. from Columbia University and University of Victoria in landscape design and biology and recently completed the Loeb Fellowship at the Harvard Graduate School of Design. This program is presented in partnership with Rooted in Bexley and generously funded by the Bexley Community Foundation and Bexley Community Author Series Fund.

. 🎬 Movie Night You, Me & Tuscany Join us for a cinematic escape to the sun-drenched vineyards and romantic landscapes of Italy as we gather to watch You, Me & Tuscany, the new feel-good romantic comedy starring Halle Bailey and Regé‑Jean Page. Set against the breathtaking beauty of Tuscany, the film follows a spirited young woman whose impulsive decision to stay in a Tuscan villa leads to unexpected adventure, heartfelt moments, and a romance she never saw coming. Expect an evening filled with: 🍿 A beautiful cinematic escape to Italy 🍷 Relaxed social vibes and great conversation ✨ A feel-good romantic story perfect for movie lovers Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies, stunning travel settings, or simply enjoy experiencing great films with great people, this will be a perfect night to unwind and connect. Come ready to relax, laugh, and be transported to Tuscany for the evening. Follow Black Love & Friends on [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/share/17oXQtZz36/) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/blackloveandfriends?igsh=djVrYnhqeG5nMjBx) to stay connected and be the first to hear about upcoming dimnets, social gatherings, and other exciting member-only events.

Meeting Room 2b, Main Library Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. We desirere to cultivate a space where all questions are welcome and all members are treated with compassion and respect. All backgrounds are welcome.

**The Listening Room — First Gathering** So much of life happens in loud spaces and quick conversations that never quite go beneath the surface. The Listening Room is meant to be the opposite of that — a quieter space where people can slow down, talk honestly, and actually listen to one another. For this first gathering, we’ll meet in a small group and explore a simple conversation prompt together. The goal isn’t debate or performance — just thoughtful conversation and the chance to connect with others in a genuine way. Our prompt for this gathering will be: **When have you felt truly seen or understood by another person?** Everyone will have the opportunity to share if they’d like, but there’s absolutely no pressure — listening is just as valuable as speaking here. We’re keeping the group intentionally small so the conversation can feel relaxed and natural. Looking forward to meeting you. — Benny

**Confidence & Connection: Using Your Authentic Truth to Find Your People** Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself, it’s about knowing where you belong and who you can grow alongside. In this April Confidence Lab Happy Hour, we’ll explore how living in your authentic truth helps you find your people, build meaningful collaborations, and create spaces where vulnerability is met with respect rather than risk. Together, we’ll reflect on what it looks like to advocate for yourself with clarity and care, and how confidence deepens when it’s rooted in connection rather than comparison. Featured speaker **Lachandra Baker**, founder of **[LBB Edutainment](https://www.lbbedutainment.com/)** and author of *Your Own Biggest Cheerleader*, will share reflections on authenticity, psychological safety, and the power of community over individual achievement. Drawing from personal stories—including the significance of turning 53—Lachandra will invite us into a conversation about showing up fully, being seen, and choosing relationships that support who you truly are. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with space for reflection, shared insight, and intentional connection—plus drinks, light bites, and the kind of conversations that remind you you’re not meant to do this alone. Come as you are. Leave feeling clearer about your voice, your people, and the confidence that grows when both are aligned. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

You are warmly invited to a beautiful **Ladies' Tea Party**. Join us for an elegant afternoon of fellowship, laughter, and meaningful connection as we gather in a peaceful and welcoming space. This special event is an opportunity to relax, enjoy delightful tea and treats, and celebrate the joy of community with other women, your daughters, granddaughters, nieces, and friends. This tea party is a wonderful way to build friendships, share conversation, and enjoy a refreshing time together. - Formal Attire

GRANVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY Plant Swap May 3, 2026 3-4 p.m. Granville Public Library | 217 E. Broadway Is your perennial garden overflowing? Did you start too many native plant or vegetable seeds? Bring your extras to trade with other gardeners. Participants will be able to walk away with one new plant for each one they bring. Plants considered invasive are prohibited from the plant swap. [Click here to read list of prohibited plants ](https://www.oipc.info/list-of-assessed-species.html) To encourage participants to remove invasive plants & plant native plants, Pollinator Pathway will be offering free native plants at the swap. Please label the plants you bring.