Historical Tours

Discover the beauty of Wilsons Promontory National Park on a day trip from Melbourne. Hike to the summit of Mount Oberon, explore the Big Drift, and relax on Squeaky Beach. Embark on a road trip to Wilsons Promontory National Park, a slice of paradise with white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and untouched landscapes. Begin your adventure with a hike through bushland, then head to the Big Drift **5.5km** return, where vast sand dunes stretch toward the horizon. Feel the untamed beauty of this open landscape. Next, visit Tidal River, where calm river waters meet the sea. Take a moment to reset in this peaceful place before continuing your journey. Climb Mount Oberon for sweeping summit views over the Prom’s coastline. The climb is worth every step for the breathtaking vistas, **6km**. Walk along Squeaky Beach, where pure white quartz sand squeaks beneath your feet. Enjoy the unique sensation as you stroll along the shore. Finally, visit Wilsons Prom Wildlife Park for close encounters with native Australian animals. Learn and connect with wildlife in this protected space before returning to Melbourne. ### What to Bring * Comfortable walking or hiking shoes * A warm jacket (weather can change) * Hat & sunglasses * Sunscreen * Motion sickness medication if needed ### What's Included * Small-group transport * Professional local guide * Complimentary drink * Snacks throughout the day * Free one instant printed photo (take-home souvenir) * Carbon offset through tree planting * All listed stops and experiences ### Important * Not suitable for children under 7 years old * Cancellations or rescheduling require 7 days’ written notice * Requests must be emailed to: [info@ch-ex.com.au](mailto:info@ch-ex.com.au)

Get ready to embark on a journey to undisclosed locations. We will be hiring a 24-seater bus with a driver for this adventure. This is our 5th surprise trip. We're setting off to explore locations we have not been as part of the group over the last 9 years. But here's the twist: the full itinerary stays under wraps until you're seated on the bus. If you are a youtuber or content creator, please message me before signing up. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please get your ticket via Trybooking ($99 - Lucky Bird, $109 - Early Bird, $119 - Regular) - [https://www.trybooking.com/DJMUM](https://www.trybooking.com/DJMUM) Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date if the names on Trybooking and Meetup are the same. Trybooking payments are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Trybooking payments will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved to a new date. **Meeting Point:** Let's meet in Federation Square Bus & Coach Pickup Drop-off Zone (Corner of Russell and Flinders Street) at 9 AM. Please don't be late. We should be back to city around 9 pm. **[Google Map Link](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Federation+Square+Bus+%26+Coach+Pickup+Drop-off+Zone/@-37.8174106,144.9702863,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x9629c0ef7d056ab5?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiExo-b6taDAxVWslYBHbHtA2sQ_BJ6BAhYEAA)** Walking distance is flexible. Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) This is a rain-or-shine event. Please carry takeaway lunch, water, and snacks. We will make a stop on the way if you want to pick takeaway lunch. Cost: $99 - Lucky Bird $109 - Early Bird $119 - Regular Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 44,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group – We’re here to make friends and share experiences, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers – You’re welcome to swap social media if you both agree, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 No advertising – Please don’t promote other events, groups, or businesses here. 😅 Don’t be clingy – Give people space to mingle and chat with others too. 🚗 No carpooling – For safety reasons and insurance coverage, we don’t allow carpooling or ride-sharing through the group. 💰 No sales pitches – That means no selling, MLMs, pyramid schemes, or “life-changing mentorships.” Keep it scam-free. By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **Liability Waiver:** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

**Join your local guides on the best pub crawl in Melbourne!** Meet at WAX Music Lounge on 250 Flinders St, and explore the best, most well-known venues with people from all over the world. With **4 free 'welcome shots'** upon entry to each bar followed by exclusive drink deals at each, you'll see just why Melbourne is known as the nightlife capital of Australia! Experience a range of Melbourne's most famous bars & pubs throughout the night, with **free entry** for all, and reduced entry/recommendations at the end of the event to keep your night going strong! Play games, **win prizes** and mingle with locals, travelers & everything in between on the most sought-after event in Melbourne! * **4 FREE SHOTS** * **4 BARS ALL WITH FREE SKIP-THE-LINE ENTRY** * **PLENTY OF GAMES AND PRIZES TO BE WON** * **UNLIMITED MEMORIES & CHANCES TO MAKE FRIENDS IN THE CULTURAL CAPITAL OF AUSTRALIA!** Starting at 5:30PM at WAX Music Lounge on 250 Flinders St, you will receive your skip-the-line wristband, free welcome shot and mingle with other attendees before we introduce our games and prizes to be won throughout the evening. We then mix it up weekly, visiting some of Melbourne's most iconic and well-known bars with your pub crawl crew who have lived and breathed the city for most of their lives. **Make sure to lock in your spot ASAP as tickets often sell out!**

Are you ready for some more *conniving*, *falsehoods* and *mischievous antics* at Temple Arden, North Melb? **What to Expect:** Blood on the Clocktower is a social deduction game requiring a storyteller to take a roughly a dozen people through a series of "days and nights" where townspeople try to identify and hunt down a *demon* before they become the hunted. **Beginners welcome!** You don't need to know how to play **AT ALL**, so please bring a friend, we will run a tutorial for those who need it. **NOTE** BOTC requires fluent English, the crux of this game is communication and deception. **2 Strike Policy** Late-leavers: attendees who cancel within 24 hours of the event. No-shows: attendees who mark themselves as “going” but don’t turn up. Someone who does either of these once will be forgiven but flagged. On a second offence, they will be removed. Long-time regulars will be afforded some leniency. Legitimate reasons will be considered for leniency. **Re: payment and refunds** - If there is an issue with paypal, message us. - If you are bringing a guest, toss us a message if there are payment problems. - We have no issues giving a full refund if before 48 hours of the event. Otherwise it causes us problems with prep, thanks for understanding! Additionally, if the game doesn't run, you'll receive a full refund also.

Please go to C.G.Jung Society of Melbourne website to register , in order to get the zoom link. Jung believed that “suffering” is not an illness; it is the normal counter pole to happiness.” — C G Jung, CW16: § 179 Cinderella and her Sisters, is the tale of a young and vulnerable woman whose lived experience of early childhood trauma has severely impacted on her psychological, physical, and spiritual wellness. The name Cinderella, means rebirth of the feminine. This talk will explore Cinderella’s journey as she reaches out for professional help. Its context is today’s culture and society that has become skewed toward a patriarchal approach that has led in part to the separation of treatment modalities. When we recognise the relationship between clinical psychiatry, psychoanalysis, and the symbolic phenomenology of the soul, we find a deeper meaning to the human condition. Reaching a common understanding of language within what too frequently remains disparate fields of mental health may be a step forward in bringing a cohesion and unity to an individual’s care. Cinderella is a story of the transformation of the soul, and the restoration of the Feminine archetype in today’s patriarchal society. About The Speaker Christina Thomas is a Jungian Analyst who trained with the C G Jung Institute in Zurich. She has a private psychotherapy practice in Melbourne and is an experienced group facilitator, whose Jungian and spiritual orientation ensures her ability to work deeply with the unconscious language of dreams, fairy tales and myths. Christina currently runs a popular community dreamwork group in Richmond and facilitates their monthly meetings. She has worked in psychiatric hospital settings, where she designed and facilitated psychodrama groups for adolescents with behavioural problems.

Walk/Tour - Yarra River Heritage, & Melbourne History. Plus Lunar New Performance @Crown, +[Optional\*] Chinatown Festival Walk alongside the Yarra River, learn about the 1830s-1880s anglo-european settlement of Melbourne, discover some riverside heritage places & enjoy views. Meet at Outdoor tables @Cups & Cones, Southgate Shopping Centre, Southbank; alongside the Southbank riverside promenade. We'll depart 3:30 Sharp & walk quickly to Crown, for 4pm LNY Performance. *May do only that; depends on weather/rain.* If lose me/us walking to Crown, or at/& ***to Re-Group at Crown:*** *Meet in Upper Foyer* @Crown main Atrium (towards Queensbridge St); *at top left of the big marble staircase in the Atrium.* Though the walking pace is casual, it will be a 4-5km walk, & a full afternoon & early evening, learning a bit re Melbourne heritage places, Yarra River heritage, & more. We will be stopping a number of times to learn of Melbourne history, & will visit a few heritage places. ***Please note: event*** *is **Tour-ish.** It's not a full tour, just to show/explain some things of interest. It's also not just a walk as will stop several times.* Route, & Listed Locations/Points of Interest, below, may change on day. From Crown/After the CNY performance This will be a walk along north side of river & along parts of South Wharf & Southbank riverside precinct, where we can stop briefly at a pop up cafe along the riverside promenade, right next to the river. \*From the river, we will walk via Heritage listed Arcades, to Chinatown/Little Bourke St/Russell St areas & enjoy the festivities\*. \*\**Dependant on weather*: Clear till about 5pm then chance of light rain between 5-7pm. Probable heavier rain & thunderstorm from approx 7pm (after the Meetup). 26C@5pm; 22C at7pm with probable rain. During our Walk - *some of below may be included, not all* \- as replacing with some LNY events & locations: Walk over the Sandridge Pedestrian bridge, with sculptures & panels dedicated to everyone who came to Melbourne in past many decades. Learn of the first train line (1854) in Melbourne (& first in Australia). See where sailing & steam ships used to dock in the Yarra River, before the Spencer St bridge was built. Learn where the first ships & the first european immigrants landed when they came up the Yarra River. Find out why a row of old buildings was called Banana Alley Learn a few things about Melbourne generally, such as the Hoddle Grid (Melb's CBD street's layout). There will be also some 'modern' places included in the walk/tour. Stop to take photos of some of the best views in Melbourne. Past Spencer St, walk on the Jim Stynes & Seafarers pedestrian bridges & have a look at North Wharf before that area is closed for a redevelopment Also go into Seafarers House which is not much different to as it was in the early 1900s. We will take a 10-15 minute break during the walk for a cold drink, takeway food but NO cafe break this time. But time @Little Bourke CNY We will finish walk at a cafe or eatery; or at something cool - literally. Please do not attend this event if unwell, have cold or flu like or covid symptoms. Bring mask if prefer to wear in crowded indoor places or outdoor ones. Remember to: -take care when crossing roads without signals/crossings, or obey walk/don't walk signals -keep to left side on paths (many are shared with bikes) -Bring water/drink bottle, hat or cap, jacket, sunscreen or umbrella, etc; -wear suitable clothing and footwear, -act appropriately in/to your surroundings. Disclaimer: The organizers of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss or accidents by participants on this activity. This meetup will be combined with a Multinationals group, & Daytime Events group

Walk/Tour - Yarra River Heritage, & Melbourne History. Plus Lunar New Performance @Crown, +[Optional\*] Chinatown Festival Walk alongside the Yarra, learn about the 1880s settlement of Melbourne, discover some riverside heritage places & enjoy views. Meet at Outdoor tables @Cups & Cones, Southgate Shopping Centre, Southbank; alongside the Southbank riverside promenade. We'll depart 3:30 Sharp & walk quickly to Crown, for 4pm LNY Performance. *May only do that; depends on weather/rain.* If lose me/us walking to Crown, or at/& ***to Re-Group at Crown:*** *Meet in Upper Foyer* @Crown main Atrium (towards Queensbridge St); *at top left of the big marble staircase in the Atrium.* Though the walking pace is casual, it will be a 4-5km walk, & a full afternoon & early evening, learning a bit re Melbourne heritage places, Yarra River heritage, & more. We will be stopping a number of times to learn of Melbourne history, & will visit a few heritage places. ***Please note: event*** *is **Tour-ish.** It's not a full tour, just to show/explain some things of interest. It's also not just a walk as will stop several times.* Route, & Listed Locations/Points of Interest, below, may change on day. From Crown/After the CNY performance ***(& weather dependant)***: This will be a walk along north side of river & along parts of South Wharf & Southbank riverside precinct, where we can stop briefly at a pop up cafe along the riverside promenade, right next to the river. \*From the river, we will walk via Heritage listed Arcades, to Chinatown/Little Bourke St/Russell St areas & enjoy the festivities\*. \*\**Dependant on weather*: Clear till about 5pm then chance of light rain between 5-7pm. Probable heavier rain & thunderstorm from approx 7pm (after the Meetup). 26C@5pm; 22C at7pm with probable rain. During our Walk - *some of below may be included, not all* \- as replacing with some LNY events & locations: Walk over the Sandridge Pedestrian bridge, with sculptures & panels dedicated to everyone who came to Melbourne in past many decades. Learn of the first train line (1854) in Melbourne (& first in Australia). See where sailing & steam ships used to dock in the Yarra River, before the Spencer St bridge was built. Learn where the first ships & the first european immigrants landed when they came up the Yarra River. Find out why a row of old buildings was called Banana Alley Learn a few things about Melbourne generally, such as the Hoddle Grid (Melb's CBD street's layout). There will be also some 'modern' places included in the walk/tour. Stop to take photos of some of the best views in Melbourne. Past Spencer St, walk on the Jim Stynes & Seafarers pedestrian bridges & have a look at North Wharf before that area is closed for a redevelopment Also go into Seafarers House which is not much different to as it was in the early 1900s. We will take a 10-15 minute break during the walk for a cold drink, takeway food but NO cafe break this time. We will finish the walk at a cafe; or at something cool - literally. Please do not attend this event if unwell, have cold or flu like or covid symptoms. Bring mask if prefer to wear in crowded indoor places or outdoor ones. Remember to: -take care when crossing roads without signals/crossings, or obey walk/don't walk signals -keep to left side on paths (many are shared with bikes) -Bring water/drink bottle, hat or cap, jacket, sunscreen or umbrella, etc; -wear suitable clothing and footwear, -act appropriately in/to your surroundings. Disclaimer: The organizers of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss or accidents by participants on this activity. This meetup will be combined with a Multinationals group, & Daytime Events group

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → BELLS BEACH & OTWAYs** 🏙️ * 📅 **SUN 22 FEB, DAY TRIP ☀️** * ✨ “Hike gently. Breathe deeply. Live fully.” \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Escape the city and join us for a beautifully balanced day where ocean energy meets forest calm. We begin with an **easy coastal-and-forest hike**, moving between dramatic clifftops, peaceful bush trails, and open viewpoints. Along the way, we pause for a short **meditation** and grounding — a moment to slow down, breathe, and reconnect. After the walk, we enjoy a relaxed **picnic lunch** with a view, featuring a fresh **fruit platter** and refreshments. The afternoon adds a touch of indulgence with a visit to a **chocolate** factory, followed by **winery** stop for scenic views, tastings, and the chance to enjoy wood-fired pizza before our return to Melbourne. A day of good vibes, gentle movement, and shared moments in nature. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What’s Included?** *(All-Inclusive for $99!)* ✅ Round-trip **transport** in a comfortable **MERCEDES minivan** 🚐 ✅ Guided **9 km hike** with an elevation gain of 170m 🥾 ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee & tea** ☕ ✅ Fresh **Fruit** Platter 🍉 ✅ **Meditation** & grounding 🧘 ✅ **Picnic lunch stop** with great company 🧺 ✅ Visit Chocolate factory & Winery ✅ Visit **stunning scenic lookouts** 🌄🦘 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- #### 🗺️ **Day Trip Plan** 🚐 **07:30** — Pick up St Paul’s Cathedral ☕ **08:00** — Refreshment stop 🌊 **09:30** — Arrive Bells Beach · Morning coffee/ tea/ snacks 🥾 **09:45** — Easy coastal + forest scenic hike (\~9 km \~170 m elevation) 🧘 **12:00** — Meditation & grounding 🍉 **13:00** — Picnic lunch with a view + Fruit platter · Snacks · Drinks 🌿 **14:00** — Otways lookouts & short forest walk 🍫 **14:30** — Chocolate factory visit 🍷 **15:30** — Winery visit + Tasting (optional)+🍕Optional wood-fired pizza 🚐 **18:00** — Return to Melbourne 📍 Drop-off: **Hammer Hall**, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** BB 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **BYO lunch** 🍽️ (or can buy on the way) ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Credited or refunded only if the event is canceled/moved. Non-refundable in any other cases \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- * **A day in nature is a day well spent** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

### **🚣‍♂️ Saturday Kayaking at Albert Park Lake! 🌅** Get ready for a **kayaking adventure** right in the heart of the city at the **Sunset & Golden Hour!** 🚣‍♀️✨ Join us this **Saturday** for a fun-filled paddle session, complete with **good vibes, great company, music, and a stunning sunset** over the water. 🌇🎶 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **🎟️ Package Includes – Only $39 PP!** ✅ **Kayaks & gears** 🚣‍♂️ ✅ **Soft drinks & snacks** 🥤🍏 ✅ **Hot tea & coffee** 🍵☕ ✅ **Music & a relaxed social atmosphere** 🎶 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **📍 Meeting Point & Details:** 📅 **Day:** Saturday 📍 **Location:** Albert Park Lake 💲 **Price:** $39 per person 🌊 **Kayaks available – Let’s make some waves!** 🌊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **💳 How to Book:** 📩 **RSVP with a $39 transfer** to secure your spot! **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** Alb 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Credited or refunded only if the event is canceled/moved. Non-refundable in any other cases \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **🛶 What to Bring:** ✔️ Waterproof/water-repellent clothing 🌊 ✔️ Or spare clothes & shoes (just in case!) 👕👟 ✔️ A positive mindset & excitement for an awesome time! 😃 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **📢 Important!** 📺 **Before attending, please watch these short videos on kayaking safety & techniques:** https://youtu.be/TAEkR13ChPs https://youtu.be/Calmsh4zI5U \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **📲 Have Questions?** Feel free to **DM or call me** ! 📞💬 📌 **Follow & Stay Updated:** 🌍 **Facebook Group:** https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share 📸 **Instagram:** @nogeography.hike.kayak \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🚣‍♂️💙 **Get ready for an unforgettable kayaking experience – see you on the water!** 🌊✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

**Summary** For this event, we will do the [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at [The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/), a ten-thousand acre conservation center in Muskingum County. It is the largest such center in North America and one of the largest in the entire world. During this tour, we'll visit The Wilds' rhino herd in their state-of-the-art heated barns and learn how The Wilds' animal management team takes care of one of the largest herds of rhinos outside of Africa and Asia. **The date and time of this tour** We will be doing the 1:00 p.m. [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) on Saturday, February 28. The tour is scheduled to last 90 minutes. **What you need to do to attend** Signing up here on Meetup will not get you into The Wilds for the tour. You must go out to The Wilds' [website](https://www.thewilds.org/) and [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour). Please [purchase your ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour), then sign up here on Meetup so I know how many to expect. **Attendance cap** There are only eight total slots/tickets available for this tour. As I obviously have already bought one of the tickets, that leaves seven spaces for everyone else. If you are interested in this event, I urge you to [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at The Wilds' website as soon as possible. Since their website is obviously public, nothing prevents other people having nothing to do with *GOhio!* from buying their own tickets, thereby potentially taking an available slot away from you. **Additional notes on attendance** I have now run several events at The Wilds. While the location of The Wilds and the pricing of the tickets generally leads to small turnouts, the people who have gone have all enjoyed it and were glad they went. If you've never been to The Wilds and you like zoos or animals at all, you are likely to find any tour at The Wilds to be a rewarding experience. **Tickets and pricing** [Tickets](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) for this tour are $95, or $76 if you're a Wilds' member. I've posted screen shots, below, to help you be sure you're buying tickets for the correct event. Wilds' memberships pay for themselves if you go to The Wilds at least twice a year, and [Columbus Zoo members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) get a discount on memberships to The Wilds. I will always run at least two events a year at The Wilds. Tickets for all Wilds' tours must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance of the actual tour. **Cancellations and refunds** Per The Wilds' [Cancellation Policy](https://www.thewilds.org/policies): *In order to be eligible for refund and accrue no rescheduling fees, cancellations must be made at least 14 days in advance of reservation. Cancellations made within 14 days of reservation will not receive a refund.* You may [contact The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/contact) at (740) 638-5030 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or you can email them at information@thewilds.org. **Waiver of liability** After you purchase your ticket, you will likely be asked to fill out a waiver of liability. This is a very short document and should take you no more than two minutes to complete. **Where we'll meet** We will meet at The Wilds, whose actual address is [14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732](https://www.google.com/maps/place/14000+International+Rd,+Cumberland,+OH+43732/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837dae07a595557:0xa1ceca93325a8bd1?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Please try to be there by 12:30 p.m. For most Wilds' tours, a shuttle bus will take you to the actual spot of the tour. So think of this as though you're going to the airport to catch a flight. It helps to be on time. The Wilds generally asks that people arrive at least thirty minutes because the scheduled start time of their tour. **GPS / Getting to The Wilds** The Wilds is in a very rural area, but I've never had a problem getting there with my GPS (I have Verizon). I've also uploaded a JPG map, below, of Muskingum County. Sometimes, though, it's hard to get a signal when you're at The Wilds and getting ready to leave. So you might want to consider downloading an offline map in Google Maps. Your cell phone should pick up a signal, however, within a few minutes after you leave. The Wilds' Visitor Center does have free Wi-Fi. **Carpooling?** If you want to carpool, I recommend discussing this in the comments, below, to this event. While I don't myself carpool, I will do what I can to help you arrange something if I can. **The weather** Dress for the weather. Just because the barn is heated doesn't mean it will be warm. And wear closed-toed shoes. Wilds' tours typically run no matter what the weather is. **After the tour** Once we're done with the rhinos, we'll head over to the very highly rated [Y-Bridge Brewing Company](https://ybridgebrewing.com/). The brewery is about thirty minutes from The Wilds, and it will be on the way back to Columbus for most, if not all, of us. The brewery's actual address is [1417 Linden Ave Ste D, Zanesville, OH 43701](https://www.google.com/maps/place/1417+Linden+Ave+d,+Zanesville,+OH+43701/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837edd6cc50824f:0xe3a0af1ccb2aefbf?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Y-Bridge Brewing does not serve food; however, they have several [food options](https://ybridgebrewing.com/food-options). I encourage you to check these out ahead of time on their website for yourself. However, here are a few of them: *Within walking distance -- 120 feet away* * [Angry Bull Saloon](https://www.facebook.com/AngryBullSaloonZanesville/) (pizza & subs) * The Corner Pub Sports Bar and Grill (classic bar food) *Delivery options -- [Door Dash](https://www.doordash.com/)* * [4 Star Pizza](https://fourstarpizza.com/), (740) 452-9300 * [Donatos](https://www.donatos.com/), (740) 452-7900 * [Pizza Cottage](https://www.pizza-cottage.com/), (740) 455-6000 * [Dominos](https://www.dominos.com/), (740) 455-3126 * [Papa John's](https://www.papajohns.com/), (740) 450-4100 If you live in the area or can't make The Wilds but still want to meet us at the brewery, that's fine too.

#### Turning Rentals Into Income: How Investors Pay Off Properties Faster #### **Featuring Guest Speaker: John Blackburn** **👉 Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)** #### A lot of people get into real estate because they want freedom. Then they buy a rental…and realize most of the rent goes straight to the bank. They technically own property, but the mortgage controls the income. And waiting 30 years for properties to be paid off doesn’t feel realistic. This meetup is about understanding a different way to think about rental properties… one that focuses on paying them off sooner so the income is actually usable. **Featured Guest Speaker: John Blackburn** We’re excited to welcome John Blackburn as our guest speaker for this event. John has been actively investing in real estate since 2006 and has: * Been involved in **5,000+ real estate transactions** * Helped investors **acquire over $150 million in rental property** * **Raised more than $100 million** in private capital John didn’t start with family money or shortcuts. He built his portfolio by focusing on clear systems, real numbers, and long-term strategy. For this meetup, John will walk through how investors shift their focus from simply owning rentals to building properties that eventually pay them…without a mortgage attached. **What You’ll Learn** John will break down, in simple terms: * Why most rental properties don’t produce much usable income early on * Why buying more rentals isn’t always the answer * How investors structure their properties to pay off mortgages in a fraction of the time * How properties can work together to eliminate debt faster * What changes once rentals become free and clear This approach is often referred to as an accelerated paydown strategy — using rental income intentionally to reduce debt sooner, rather than waiting decades for mortgages to run their course. John will also share a simple calculator you can use to see how this works with real numbers and realistic scenarios. **The Core Idea** When a rental has a mortgage, the rent has one job: **pay the bank.** When a rental is paid off, the rent has a different job: **pay you.** Most people only see one timeline…30 years. This session shows how investors shorten that timeline and gradually increase their income as properties become free and clear. **Who This Event Is For** This event is for people who want more than just “owning rentals” on paper. * Rental owners who are tired of most of the rent going to the bank and want a clearer path to real, usable income * New investors who want to understand how rental properties actually build wealth over time before jumping in * People with capital who want to invest in real estate with intention and a long-term plan * Anyone serious about freedom and curious how rental properties transition from debt-heavy assets into income-producing ones **Event Details** **Location:** Ohio Brewing Company - 421 E 2nd Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 **Date & Time:** January 25th, 6–8 PM (Doors open at 5:30) **Cost:** Free (Seats are limited - RSVP required) **👉 Get your FREE TICKET [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/turning-rentals-into-income-how-investors-pay-off-properties-faster-tickets-1980492192461?aff=cicmeetupapp)** If you’ve ever wondered how rental properties actually turn into freedom —this is the room to be in.

Join us for something different as we get together to see EPIC: ELVIS PRESLEY IN CONCERT! While researching his 2022 film, director Bas Luhrmann came across and compiled rare and previously unseen interviews and videos of Elvis in concert to create “one of the most exciting concert films you’ve ever seen!” Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Part documentary, part concert film, the latest from director Bas Luhrmann is a follow-up to his 2022 film starring Austin Butler. While researching the film, he came across 68 boxes of previously unseen interviews, concert performances and outtakes from previous films. A combination of offstage and onstage Elvis, comes a film that “befits the magnitude of Elvis as a performer but also offers deeper revelations of his humanity and inner life." It is written/directed by Baz Luhrmann (ELVIS, MOULIN ROUGE, THE GREAT GATSBY) and stars the legendary Elvis Presley! TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NmqWusmzp0k BUZZ AND ACCLAIM: The film screened at the 2025 Toronto Film Festival where it was the runner up in the category People’s Choice Award for Documentaries. Next Best Picture says, “Certain to energize longtime fans and generate new ones for generations to come, EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert is a masterwork of montage.” And according to the NY Post, whether you have a room in the house devoted to Elvis or not, this truly “Epic” concert film is an energizing experience!” PLAN: We’ll plan for a pre-show bite at nearby BRAVO around 5 or 5:30pm followed by a 7pm-ish showing on one of their larger screens. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised. Please list your seat number in the Comments below. Exact showtime and meeting details will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

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. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Good Cafe](https://goodcafeeaston.com/)!