Cycling

Join me for a relaxed day trip to The Great Trentham Spudfest on Saturday 2 May. Spudfest is Trentham’s annual celebration of food, local produce, music, makers, community, and all things potato. Saturday is the Street Fair day, with different precincts across town, plenty of food to try, live music, local stalls, activities, and a lively regional festival atmosphere. We’ll meet at 8:40am outside the V/Line Tickets and Information office on the Ground Floor at Southern Cross Station. The plan is to catch the 9:01am V/Line service from Southern Cross Station, then return on the 5:44pm V/Line coach from Trentham. Once we arrive, we’ll explore the festival at a relaxed pace, grab food, walk around the different areas, and enjoy the day. You’re welcome to stay with the group, split off for parts of the festival, take photos, browse stalls, or meet back later. This is a casual, low-pressure day trip. It should suit people who are happy with a full day out by public transport and a relaxed festival atmosphere. **Links** Meetup start point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/zKpb8eQovKoEJAvq5](https://maps.app.goo.gl/zKpb8eQovKoEJAvq5) Festival website: [https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/](https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/) Program PDF: [https://86866130-1986-463f-8051-3f94276dc998.filesusr.com/ugd/c07cff_edd908aeec7a49ddbf7ec6d3bb4e839e.pdf](https://86866130-1986-463f-8051-3f94276dc998.filesusr.com/ugd/c07cff_edd908aeec7a49ddbf7ec6d3bb4e839e.pdf) Saturday program: [https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/saturday](https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/saturday) Street Fair map: [https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/map-street-fair](https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/map-street-fair) FAQ page: [https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/faqs](https://www.trenthamspudfest.org.au/faqs) Last year’s video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KmgT8CYoNo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0KmgT8CYoNo) **Rough timeline** * 8:40am — Meet outside the V/Line Tickets and Information office at Southern Cross Station * 9:01am — Planned V/Line departure from Southern Cross Station * Late morning — Arrive and head into Spudfest * Late morning to afternoon — Explore the Street Fair, food stalls, music, makers, and different precincts * 5:44pm — Planned return V/Line coach from Trentham * Evening — Return to Melbourne **A Few Things I’m Keen to Try** There are a few Spudfest activities I’m personally hoping to join or try during the day. I’m planning to participate in the Spud Olympics, possibly including several of the different races or competitions if timing works out. The festival currently lists Spud Olympics races from 10:00am to 3:00pm, with Tough Spudder at 3:00pm, at the Railway Precinct. I’m also keen to have a go at The Great Peel Off, which is the potato peeling competition. The festival currently lists heats from 2:00pm at the Railway Precinct, and says it is open to all with peelers provided. I’d also like to try the Devonshire Tea, which is listed as a potato scone Devonshire Tea at the Railway Precinct. Please note this one is currently listed as $10, so bring cash/card if you’d like to try it too. You’re welcome to join me for any of these, or explore the festival at your own pace. We don’t all need to do the same activities the whole time. **Tickets** Spudfest Street Fair entry is free, but some activities or special events may be ticketed or paid. Everyone attending will need to pre-purchase their own V/Line ticket. I’ve already purchased my own ticket. Please check your own public transport ticket, connection details, and live service updates before travelling. **What to bring** * Comfortable walking shoes * Weather-appropriate clothing * Water bottle * V/Line ticket * Phone power bank if needed * A small bag for anything you buy * Cash/card for food, stalls, and any paid activities **What to expect** * Distance: Light walking around the festival precincts * Difficulty: Easy, but it is a full day out * Pace: Relaxed and social * Vibe: Casual, friendly, low-pressure, and welcoming to solo attendees **Important notes** Please arrive on time because we’ll be aiming to catch the planned V/Line service. This event involves public transport, so delays or service changes are possible. Please check your own V/Line/PTV travel details before the day. Some festival areas may be busy, especially around food stalls and popular activities. **Other info** Saturday is the main Street Fair day, with multiple festival precincts across Trentham. The festival runs during the day, so this is intended as a full day trip rather than a short local meetup.

**Train for 2 weeks. Race on 17 May.** *Free entry. No experience needed. All equipment provided.* Ever wanted to try dragon boating—but didn’t know where to start? Here’s your chance to go from complete beginner to race day in just 2 weeks. 👉 Join the Race Ready crew now! We’re running a Race Ready Program leading into a friendly regatta at Docklands on 17 May, and you’re invited to join our crew. ⸻ **What to expect:** * 🚣‍♂️ Learn the basics (no experience needed) * 💪 Fun, full-body training sessions * 👥 Meet a welcoming and social team * 🏁 Race in a real dragon boat event (free entry) ⸻ **Program details:** * 2 weeks of training (Tues/Thurs evenings, Sat mornings) * We recommend attending 2–3 sessions over the program to feel confident for race day * All equipment provided * Support from experienced coaches and crew **⸻** **Who is this for?** * First-timers * People looking for a fun way to get fit * Anyone wanting to meet new people in Melbourne ⸻ **What to bring:** * Comfortable gym clothes * Water bottle * A positive attitude ⸻ **Location:** Docklands ⸻ **Why join?** Most of our members started exactly like this—just giving it a go. This is the easiest and most fun way to try dragon boating, and experience the thrill of a real race! ⸻ **RSVP:** Spots are limited for the race crew, so register early.

**Another Autumn Classic! A bit longer and hillier than last Sunday’s ride. Car based. Start and finish in Woori Yallock.** **58 km, 1000 vm, hilly. 75% good gravel roads, 5% rougher roads, 20% sealed.** **Medium / Intermediate.** **Suitable for reasonably fit riders with good gravel riding experience. Bikes should be gravel-worthy, with good range of gears and suitable tyres for variable terrain and surfaces. No skinny slick tyres!** **Meeting at Woori Yallock shops at 8:30am for pre-ride fuel and lunch stock up (bakery, super market, butcher, chemist, liquor store). No shops enroute. BYO all food, and at least 2 large bidons of water.** **Pedal off at 9:00am.** **A bit of the Warby Trail to warm up. Back roads and trails through Launching Place. Climbing through Gladysdale to the heights of Hoddles Creek. Plenty of stunning autumn views of rolling hills, vineyards, orchards, tall forests and fern gullies.** **A well deserved lunch break (BYO) will be at the 30 km mark at Kurth Kiln Picnic Area** [https://www.mammaknowseast.com.au/places-to-go/kurth-kiln-picnic-grounds-gembrook](https://www.mammaknowseast.com.au/places-to-go/kurth-kiln-picnic-grounds-gembrook) **where we can chill out, eat, and wander around for a bit.** **Beautiful Shepherds Creek Road heads us out of the Regional Park after lunch and up on to scenic Old Beenak Road in to Yellingbo. Back roads past orchards on the way up to East Seville hill, then the quiet Old Warby Highway in to Woori.** **Route here:** [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54797248](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54797248) **RIDE REGISTRATION FORM** **The form should be available within a day or two of the ride announcement. The link to the form will be seen in the event messages when you RSVP. Please complete it when available.** **ESSENTIAL ITEMS** **Functioning headlight & tail light** **Spare tube and a puncture kit** **MYKI card, ATM card/cash, basic tools, rain gear, food/snacks, etc** **WATER** **It's your responsibility to check the temperature and distance for the day and carry an appropriate amount of water. When riding outside suburbia remember that carrying too much water is better than not enough as the distances between water availability may vary greatly from the planned route due to road closures or other unforeseen circumstances.** **Check Meetup for any changes the day before the ride, as the ride may be cancelled in the event of extreme weather or other unforeseen circumstances.** **If you cannot make it to the ride please change your RSVP to 'NO' at least one day before the ride day.** **This ride is for financial MBTC members, or those who have not yet done three single day rides with us.** **To join our club check out** [https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership](https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership) **When I RSVP for this event/activity I acknowledge that the activity of bicycle riding can be dangerous and that I may suffer loss or injury or death and I agree that in consideration of my participation in any event conducted by the MBTC that I will absolve from liability the MBTC, its officers, and any event organiser from all claims, demands, or suits whether for personal injury or property loss suffered whether by negligence or breach of contract or otherwise, save for any right I may have pursuant to the Australian Consumer law. I acknowledge that photos may be taken of me during MBTC rides and social events, and that it is club practice that these photos will be published on Meetup, Facebook, and the club website. I will notify the ride leader and other riders if I wish to not be photographed. MBTC cannot guarantee that my photo will not be published and will promptly honour requests to be removed from MBTC controlled sites.**

**PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS:** This group is suitable for intermediate/advanced type player - who want to play singles matches. You need to be able to play a high level of tennis to participate. This group is not suitable for a beginner-type player. **YOU WILL NEED TO REGISTER AND PAY VIA THE ATTACHED LINK TO SECURE YOUR SPOT:** https://play.tennis.com.au/RoyalParkTennisClub/Coaching **Players who just register their interest on Meetup, do not have their spots secured and may miss out.** **Registration Opens:** 6 Days in advance at 9am **Registration Closes:** Close 6pm the day *before* the event. This is to finalise player numbers and organise a playing roster. **Social Tennis Structure:** * Location: Royal Park Tennis Club (333 The Avenue, Parkville, Melbourne) * Day: Friday * Time: 6.30pm-8.30pm * Cost: $18 for Non-Members, $12 for Members. * Participants will play some singles matches on the day. * After each set, participants will rotate around. * Balls are provided each week. * Racquets are available for hire if required. * Some refreshments are available for purchase. * Please remember to wear shoes suitable for tennis! * Maximum of 8 spots for each session.

**Social Pickleball - All Levels Welcome!** \*\* [Instagram: @rmit_pickleball](https://www.instagram.com/rmit_pickleball/) [WhatsApp: RMIT Pickleball Club](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G7VE0NcThWWIgLnnJBVQBq)\*\* \*\* Paddles and balls provided! Beginner friendly - simply show up and we’ll teach you the basics \*\* Grab a paddle, play pickleball, and meet new people! \*\* Who is it for?\*\* * Members of public and RMIT students * Complete beginners * Intermediate players * Advanced players (up to DUPR 4.5 expected) **✅ How to join?** 1. **Become a club member** [at the RMIT Store](https://store.rmit.edu.au/pages/club/pickleball) (one-off payment) 2. **RSVP** on Meetup to join the session 3. When marked as **“Going”**, pay for the session: **\- Payment link** is in the **comment section below** (posted 1-3 days before) \- Use your RMIT Store account with a club membership \(from step 1\) 4. Can’t attend? Update your RSVP to “Not Going” **⏳ Priority on waitlist** 1. Clear Meetup profile with name and photo 2. RMIT students 3. Regular attendees \*\* On the day\*\* * New players, please **introduce yourself to the host** * New players wanting a **rules intro**, please arrive on-time and ask a host * Have your **emailed ticket receipt ready** \- it will be checked on the day \*\* Cancellations and Refunds\*\* * No refunds for change of mind, non-attendance, or no-shows * Refunds only if the event is cancelled (weather or court availability) * Credit for a later session may be offered by agreement in case of event cancellation * Pay only when we share the payment link in Meetup - using old links is at your own risk Whether you are new to pickleball or a regular player, this is a great way to get some games in and connect with the community. Come solo or bring a friend - everyone is welcome! \*\* Spots are limited, so RSVP early! \*\*

A loop ride from Fed Square via the Mooney Ponds Trail, the Zoo, Merri Creek Trail, Main Yarra Trail, Anniversary Trail, Outer Circle Trail, Djerring Trail to Caulfield and then on-road/bike lanes back to Fed Square. Coffee stop at District 35 (or thereabouts, recommendations welcome), lunch at Carnegie Station (Koornang Road eateries or BYO). You are welcome to drop off the ride at any time, preferably at or before Caulfield Station. Ride will be subject to weather and may be cancelled at short notice - so far, so good. Route: [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54781777](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54781777) This ride is for financial MBTC members or those who have not yet done three single day rides with us. To join our club, check out [https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership](https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership) RIDE REGISTRATION FORM The form should be available within a day or two of the ride announcement. The link to the form will be seen in the event messages when you RSVP. Please complete it when available. ESSENTIAL ITEMS * sunny disposition * completed Ride Registration Form * be comfortable riding in/beside traffic for 10 km on the return leg (option to drop off at Caulfield) * a comfortable, working bicycle or E-bike * Functioning headlight & tail light * Spare tube and a puncture kit * MYKI card * ATM card/cash * basic tools * rain gear * food/snacks, etc WATER It's your responsibility to check the temperature and distance for the day and carry an appropriate amount of water. When riding outside suburbia remember that carrying too much water is better than not enough as the distances between water availability may vary greatly from the planned route due to road closures or other unforeseen circumstances. Check Meetup for any changes the day before the ride, as the ride may be cancelled in the event of extreme weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If you cannot make it to the ride please change your RSVP to 'NO' as soon as you know but no later than the day before ride day. The MBTC Refund & Cancellation Policy can be found [here](https://www.mbtc.org.au/refund-cancellation-policy/). When I RSVP for this event/activity I acknowledge that the activity of bicycle riding can be dangerous and that I may suffer loss or injury or death and I agree that in consideration of my participation in any event conducted by the MBTC that I will absolve from liability the MBTC, its officers, and any event organiser from all claims, demands, or suits whether for personal injury or property loss suffered whether by negligence or breach of contract or otherwise, save for any right I may have pursuant to the Australian Consumer law. I acknowledge that photos may be taken of me during MBTC rides and social events, and that it is club practice that these photos will be published on Meetup, Facebook, and the club website. I will notify the ride leader and other riders if I wish to not be photographed. MBTC cannot guarantee that my photo will not be published and will promptly honour requests to be removed from MBTC controlled sites.

**Ride**: A ride we did last in Feb '25 Let's ride from the City out to Blackburn Nth via Koonung Trail (near Eastern Fwy) to visit Blackburn Lake Sanctuary (Lunch in Blackburn first) and return via Gardiners Ck Trail. We'll be on paths with some Blackburn roads involved to make the linkage. See the map below. **Target group**: Suited for intermediates. E-bikes okay if you're confident. **Trains:** Coming in by train? There are bus replacements on Frankston and Craigieburn lines. https://www.metrotrains.com.au/planned-works/ **Forecast**: 26°C. Partly cloudy. 10% chance of 1mm rain over the day. https://reg.bom.gov.au/places/vic/blackburn/forecast/detailed/#d2026-05-02 **Distance**: Approx 56 km **Speed**: 22-25 kmh on the flat sections (not too slow, not too fast) **Map & GPS files:** [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/8388315](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/8388315) Note: Koonung Trail does go up and down a bit. We will also encounter detours from the path due to works on the Eastern Fwy. **Bring**: Sunscreen, spray jacket, snacks, water, tools, tube, phone (with my number), money for lunch and emergencies. **Contact**: Neil Griffiths - 0419 560 409 (make sure you have my number, please) \***Photo**: Blackburn Lake - (Apr 2023) "All riders are riding at their own risk and Melbourne Cycling does not take any responsibility for any injuries or accidents you may have on any of our rides"

There is a vibrant food culture in Clayton. With Asian flavours. If you like Yum Cha or Ba Minh's its got it all. Then we will explore the DIngley Bypass trail. We will meet at Caulfield Railway Station outside Platform 1. Any type of bicycle will do as it is on roads and cycle paths. Bring water . Your bike needs to be in good order. Ride route [Caulfield - Gardenvale](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54522163) RIDE REGISTRATION FORM The form should be available within a day or two of the ride announcement. The link to the form will be seen in the event messages when you RSVP. Please complete it when available. ESSENTIAL ITEMS Functioning headlight & tail light Spare tube and a puncture kit MYKI card, ATM card/cash, basic tools, rain gear, food/snacks, etc WATER It's your responsibility to check the temperature and distance for the day and carry an appropriate amount of water. When riding outside suburbia remember that carrying too much water is better than not enough as the distances between water availability may vary greatly from the planned route due to road closures or other unforeseen circumstances. Check Meetup for any changes the day before the ride, as the ride may be cancelled in the event of extreme weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If you cannot make it to the ride please change your RSVP to 'NO' at least one day before the ride day. This ride is for MBTC club members, or those who have not yet done 3 days riding with us. To join our club check out [https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership](https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership) When I RSVP for this event/activity I acknowledge that the activity of bicycle riding can be dangerous and that I may suffer loss or injury or death and I agree that in consideration of my participation in any event conducted by the MBTC that I will absolve from liability the MBTC, its officers, and any event organiser from all claims, demands, or suits whether for personal injury or property loss suffered whether by negligence or breach of contract or otherwise, save for any right I may have pursuant to the Australian Consumer law. I acknowledge that photos may be taken of me during MBTC rides and social events, and that it is club practice that these photos will be published on Meetup, Facebook, and the club website. I will notify the ride leader and other riders if I wish to not be photographed. MBTC cannot guarantee that my photo will not be published and will promptly honour requests to be removed from MBTC controlled sites.

This is my favourite go-to ride to clear the head and dust off the suit. Meet at Black Horse Hotel carpark Bulla 8.45-9am. Will head off at 9am sharp. There's a BP station next door to fill up. Will be a scenic ride. Big open vistas and open roads with not too much traffic. Spirited pace. Return route via Gisborne. Easy access to Calder fwy.

Start point: WE HAVE A NEW CAFE! **Truffles Patisserie** **192/194 Carlisle St, St Kilda, 3182** It's at the corner of Carlisle and Chapel St's. End point: Who knows? Distance: Approx 4 to 6km (each way) Estimated time: 60 to 90 minutes (stopping and starting).

**Welcome to Badminton Social (羽球匯友) Meetup!** Join us for regular badminton, social meetups, and a great time on the court around Caulfield. Let's build a welcoming badminton community and make some amazing memories together! Whether you are a beginner or a pro, this event is perfect for anyone looking to stay active, make new friends, and enjoy some friendly plays. Our group is made up of both local and international members, creating a diverse and welcoming atmosphere for everyone to join in. Not only will you have the chance to improve your Badminton skills and stay fit, but you'll also have the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for healthy living and staying active. Come and be a part of our community in Melbourne, where friendships are made on and off the court. **Details as below:** When: 2 May, this coming Saturday Time: 5pm - 6.30pm Where: Monash Sport Caulfield (1-min walk from Caulfield Station / free parking around the Station) Fee: $12 per head (PayID to the organizer) *#Limited spots - first come first served (RSVP)* *#Please bring your own racket(s); or you can rent it from the Centre (if needed)* ***#Please kindly update your RSVP as soon as possible if you need to cancel, so hopefully others can still get a spot to join. Cancellations within 24 hours or no-shows will be charged the full rate - Many thanks for your understanding and cooperation.*** *#Please let the organizer know after the first play, if you'd like to play regularly with the group ongoing and enjoy exclusive offer - Organizer will add you to our Whatsapp group for the regulars :)* *DISCLAIMER:* *By* *attending any event hosted by this Meetup group, you acknowledge and accept that participation involves inherent risks, including injury or loss of property, and you assume full responsibility for your safety. The organizers are not liable for any damages, injuries, or losses that occur, regardless of cause. You agree to follow any event guidelines, act responsibly, and understand that you are responsible for your own well-being. By attending, you accept these terms.*

This is an all inclusive event to inform, support and help bring special needs families and the community together. Come and enjoy family and sensory friendly: games, activities, snacks, free stuff and more! Meets the 2nd Saturday of each month. Located at Village Chapel - 30 Circleville Avenue, Ashville, OH 43103.

✨ **Pickleball Clinic (for all skill levels)** **(TUES MAY 12, 7-9)** **YOU MUST SIGN UP AND PAY PRIOR TO TUESDAYS CLINIC WITH LINK BELOW:** [Pickleball Summer 2026 - Calendar - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=686961&item_id=2948671&actr=3) No equipment required (bring your own paddle if you prefer). Non beginners are also welcome for the clinic to improve skills and learn strategy. We will break the group into 2 to learn based on skill levels. Come out, improve your game, and meet great people. All skill levels welcome! Columbus Ski Club Membership is not required for the workshops. Try out the sport before committing to the 8 week league.