Local History & Culture

Come and learn about the International Language, Esperanto, from experienced speakers who have travelled the world, attended international conferences, and made friends with people from many different countries. Esperanto is simple to learn, regular, and a very powerful tool for international communication. Our Monday meetups are tailored to whoever shows up on the night, so feel free to drop in, no matter what your level (curious/interested/beginner/conversational/expert). We can offer one-on-one lessons or a range of group activities, conversation, and games. We meet at Enderby Esperanto Centre, suite 304, 343 Little Collins Street. Your first visit is free, and meetups are free for members, however if neither of these apply we ask for $5 to help cover venue costs. If you want to join our Discord server for Esperantists in Victoria, please visit [https://discord.gg/6cgKjQhkWa](https://discord.gg/6cgKjQhkWa "https://discord.gg/6cgKjQhkWa")

Hugh Jackman and Emma Thompsons new film. “The Sheep Detectives brims with charm, wit, and a twisty murder mystery that can only be solved by the most endearing set of farm animals since Farmer Hoggett said “That’ll do” to Babe the pig.” [RogerEbert.com](http://RogerEbert.com) “What really lingers after The Sheep Detectives is its tone: earnest, uncomplicated sweetness, rooted in the love that we — whether human or sheep — have for those with whom we share our lives, and a gentle acceptance of loss as part of that love.” The Seattle Times. We will meet at the Nova Bar from 6 p.m. onwards. Please book your tickets early, Stefan - 0437777522

The Buddhist spiritual path centres on our own mind’s vast potential for peace, compassion and wisdom. True lasting happiness does not depend on external factors but comes from looking inwards to better know our own mind and heart. This course presents key insights from the Buddha’s life and teachings to show how, through meditation and shifting our focus inwards, we can find true, unending contentment. This course presents key Buddhist frameworks that guide our path, including: * The three vehicles of Buddhism, which progressively show how we can nurture our innate peace, compassion and wisdom. * The four seals, which encapsulate what is unique about the Buddha’s teachings and sets them apart from other religions and philosophies. Including teachings from foremost Tibetan masters of our time, space for contemplation, reflection and discussion, and guided meditations, this course will give you practical tools to help you work with your mind and take charge of your spiritual path. **Details** Where: Attend in person at Rigpa Melbourne, 803 Nicholson Street Carlton North. **When**: Monday evenings, for 9 weeks, starting 27 April 2026, a break on 8 June 2026, and finishing 29 June 2026. **Time**: 7.00pm – 9.00pm AEDT. **Cost**: 9-week module: Full $180, Concession $90. **Register here:** [https://rigpa.org.au/event/this-life-the-buddhas-guide-to-inner-transformation-melbourne-april-june-2026/2026-04-27/](https://rigpa.org.au/event/this-life-the-buddhas-guide-to-inner-transformation-melbourne-april-june-2026/2026-04-27/)

A mix of dance classes, connections & laughter! We love offering a diverse range of moves to keep things fresh and exciting, and it’s always amazing to see our dance community connecting on and off the dance floor. It’s all about coming together, learning, and having fun! Brighton Beach Bowls Club 2B South Rd Brighton 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Beginner & Intermediate levels $25 CASH or PAYID

Join us at Eltham Leisure Centre for a FREE fun-filled Walking Football Mixed Gender Session, brought to you by Walking Football 4 Health Victoria. This event is designed for anyone looking for a low impact sport to stay active, be part of a welcoming community, and most importantly have fun. Our friendly host, Paul, will be there to introduce you to walking football, ensuring a safe and engaging experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage in sports, socialise, and promote a healthy lifestyle in a welcoming community environment. There is no cost for this program. Sign up now and be a part of this exciting Walking Football Session. If you wish to contact the organiser, Mick directly, you can do so on: 0430 163 550 Email: info@wf4hvictoria.org.au Website: [Walking Football | Walking Soccer | Walking Football 4 Health](https://wf4hvictoria.org.au/) Facebook: [Walking Football 4 Health Victoria Group | Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria)

Play board games with around 20 people on 5+ tables in Elsternwick. Friendly. Inclusive. Free entry, Crunchy Euro and Thematic games. Close to public transport and free parking. Exclusive use of a function room with good lighting at the Caulfield RSL. Join our group in the Aftergame App to stay in touch: https://aftergame.app/groups/bayside-games-1853 Games are sometimes organised in advance on our WhatsApp group or in the Aftergame app, however most games are organised following a brief discussion at the venue on the Monday night. Recently we have played the following games: Euros: Brass, Dune Imperium, Anachrony, Endeavor Deep Sea, Inis, On Mars, Ark Nova, Galactic Cruise, Viticulture, Scythe, Concordia, Terra Mystica, Gaia Project, Terraforming Mars, Castles of Burgundy, Lost Ruins of Arnak and Grand Austria Hotel, and Orleans Economic: Indonesia, Food Chain Magnate, Bus, Irish Gauge and Container. Thematic: Voidfall, Dune (Original), Root, Eclipse, Nemesis, Spirit Island, Undaunted, Chaos in the Old World, The Godfather, Spartacus and Dominant Species. **Arrive early** The best time to arrive is around 6:50pm as people discuss which games they would like to play before starting longer games at 7:00pm. Arrive early and we can ensure that you are included in a game. However, should you arrive after 7:00pm you may need to wait for games to finish to be included, or if people are playing long games, it might not be practical to start a new game. **Full bar and snacks available** The Caulfield RSL generously provide the venue free of charge. A selection of food and drinks are available for purchase at the bar. Note that only food or drink purchased at the RSL can be consumed at the venue. We look forward to seeing you!

🤠 Monday nights — Boot Scootin’ Hustle (Line Dancing) Line dancing is an absolute blast — upbeat, energetic, and surprisingly addictive! Wonderfully warm, welcoming vibe — the kind of people you’ll want to dance with every week. Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking for somewhere fun to move, you’d fit right in! Brighton Beach Bowls Club 2B South Rd Brighton 6:00 pm – 6:45 pm $15 CASH or PAYID May Madness Sale = 4 x line dancing classes for $40

This is a Paid event at Cost of $35 with only 15 spots . Once you are confirmed as going please make payment to secure your spot. Details Lets explore some of Melbourne's Iconic landmarks. We will first explore the Royal Botanc Gardens including the stunning Fern Gully, Sensory Garden,Australian Forest Walk, Arid Garden, Guilfoyles Volcano, Long Island and the Southern China Collection. This will be approx 4km walk At 3 pm I have pre booked a 45 min guided tour of the Shrine of Remembrance . We will have ample time to explore the Galleries which houses over 800 historical artefacts, view the Crypt, and Sanctuary areas and also take in views over the city from the Balconies. 4.45pm We will watch the Last Post Service in the Forecourt . This moving ceremony honours Victorian Veterans and features a piper, bugler and a Shrine Guard Parading in Historic Uniform. COST : $35 pp. Note please pay asap to secure your place . if payment isnt received within 48 hours I will offer the spot to someone on the waiting list. Please make payment via options below and include name & Shrine in reference Pay Id ref: russellchellew@gmail.com or account transfer BSB: 805–050 Account: 100040923 Meeting Place We will meet outside the Royal Botanic Garden Visitor Centre at 1.15pm . click on red M on the Map for exact location .

https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1572681?fbclid=IwdGRjcARVc0dleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEe62V65GrZv-CpIkQ-JfpxrvS7qKsiSC8nR68UX2NLJM0Vv8K_GpVQYzbL0mg_aem_NzRVjLjyRYkndjRfukpz9Q Tickets must be purchased for entry to this event. An RSVP on Meetup will not gain you entry without a ticket. What is a Saturday night Spectacular? It’s a variety trivia-ish style 3ish hours of team-based fun (and much, much (well, some...) more) on a Saturday night. How good is your general knowledge? Do you know your music? Can you solve puzzles? Want to take part in some team challenges? Up for a singalong? Want some hands on challenges? Then come join a mixed table and see if your team can vie to win the grand prize of $120! Let your hosts take you on a 3 hour journey of fun, laughs and terrible commentary. Come for the fun, stay for the prizes. Presented with thanks to the Edinburgh Castle Hotel. Please support your local venue and partake in dinner and drinks while you play. This is a non refundable event.

Come along for a relaxed local catch-up at the Mitcham Hotel Sports Bar. Meet new people, have a chat, and enjoy a drink or coffee. New people always welcome. I’ll have a bike helmet on the table so people can find the group. Please RSVP if attending so we know who to expect.

Get outside and join us for a day of planting trees and shrubs on a beautiful property in the Yarra Valley. Come and help to protect waterways, improve ecosystems and create habitat for wildlife. Share the day with a fun bunch of outdoorsy folk who like doing good! No experience required - we will train you on the day. Morning tea and lunch are provided for free. **[YOU MUST REGISTER VIA THIS LINK!](https://events.humanitix.com/help-plant-native-seedlings-at-healesville-4)** This link tells you everything you need to know - what to bring, where to go, FAQs - and you MUST register on this page! You'll meet friendly, like-minded people, and return home knowing that you've done something meaningful. You'll need your own transport, approximately one hour's drive from Melbourne CBD. TreeProject is an award-winning, not-for-profit organisation that has been growing and planting native seedlings for farmers and Landcare groups for over 30 years. We have grown over 2 million trees! This year alone we are growing over 150,000 trees, and helping landowners plant about 50,000 trees! Come and join us!

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

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

June meetup at the Library. We’ll play games and have casual conversation in Japanese and in English. All levels of Japanese ability, from non-speaker to native, are welcome. After the meetup we will go out to eat at a local restaurant.

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.