Cycling

**HIKE OVERVIEW:** **The Castlemaine to Maldon Rail Trail is a 16.7km, moderate hike which runs parallel to the Victorian Goldfields Railway. It passes through bushland, farmland and some gold-era historical sites.** **We will start and meet at Castlemaine Train Station and walk towards Maldon. Our route will take us via Muckleford Train Station.** **We will return back to Castlemaine aboard the steam train operated by the Victorian Goldfields Railway. This historic railway served rural Victoria from 1880 through to the 1970’s and has been restored to its former glory.** **Excursion class one way tickets are $37 ($32 concession) and once you have confirmed your attendance, I will advise here in comments when to book your one-way ticket from Maldon. Please wait for the go-ahead to book your tickets as the event may be suspended if we don’t attract enough interest.** ***when advised*** **you can book your tickets at the following link:** [Book train ticket](https://secure.vgr.com.au/BookingCat/Availability/) **USEFUL LINKS:** **For more details on the route including the gradient involved please see the links below.** [https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/railway-track-maldon-to-castlemaine?sh=uoghfo](https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/railway-track-maldon-to-castlemaine?sh=uoghfo) [https://www.vgr.com.au/](https://www.vgr.com.au/) **Lunch** **Lunch: In Maldon we will stop for lunch at the Maldon Hotel, 58 Main St.** [Maldon Hotel](https://www.google.com.au/search?client=safari&hs=mGY&sca_esv=b3ca9c57de57aa89&channel=41&biw=393&bih=641&sxsrf=ANbL-n5zcNoRt1nlnk20vEuCOQZJ3tv4UQ%3A1778719407548&kgmid=%2Fg%2F1tdfyvxv&q=Maldon%20Hotel&shem=rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh%2Fx%2Floc%2Fact%2Fm4%2F3) **BEING PREPARED:** 1. **Arrange your transport** 1. **Check the weather forecast** 1. **Suitable footwear / clothing** 1. **Plenty of water / food / snacks** **RSVP’s / START TIME:** **Plans change, but please keep your RSVP up to date to allow others the chance to attend. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before the start time and message if you are running late. Remember that phone reception won't always be available so contact me as soon as possible if required.** **NOTIFICATIONS:** **All notifications will come via the Meetup app. Ensure you have enabled alerts & check the app in the lead up to an event. Notifications may include; comments, instructions & cancellations.** **QUESTIONS:** **Please feel free to post any questions.**

A bike ride of about 56 km from Sunbury via Caroline Springs and back to the City. This is a new one from Sunbury to Caroline Springs so the route may vary on the day. We'll have lunch, after 28km of cycling, in Caroline Springs at a good bakery and cafe we've been to before. From Caroline Springs, we'll follow scenic Kororoit Creek Trail to Albion and the Sunshine Rail Trail through to Footscray then Dixon Veloway to Docklands and finish at Jeff's Shed (Melbourne Exhibition Centre) by around 3:30 pm. **Getting there:** *Note: Sunbury trains now use Melbourne Metro Tunnel. ie not Flinders St or Southern Cross.* *Take this train or an earlier one to meet us there, thanks.* **Town Hall Station** 9:34 to **Sunbury** arriving 10:24 **Forecast:** Melbourne area: 22°C Partly cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely later in the day. *(At night, I think).* Winds north to northeasterly 15 to 25 km/h. Check this link for more info: https://reg.bom.gov.au/places/vic/caroline-springs/forecast/detailed/#d2026-05-16 **Pace**: \~25 km/h typically. Not too fast nor too slow. **Target group:** Suits Intermediates due to the distance but you can head off early to the train at numerous spots if you like. **Route Map**: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/55068385 \* \* Actual route will likely vary on the day **Bike to bring**: Most bikes. MTBs may struggle with the distance. E-bikes okay. Please check your bike before the day and pump tyres to firm **Bring**: -Water, snacks, spray jacket, spare tube, pump and any tools -Your phone with my number -Emergency Contact Details - See below \* **Contact**: Neil Griffiths - 0419 560 409 (save to your contacts, please) **\*Photo**: Lake Caroline - June 2017 * EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS : Please have these on you in case of a medical emergency. ie Family member's name, phone number and relationship (eg, Sister). Written down, preferably, and with your personal items that you carry so it can be found by emergency personnel attending. "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"

**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: 16 May, this 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.*

Let’s spend Saturday exploring Scienceworks together. The plan is to meet at Scienceworks in the morning, then move through a full lineup of activities: the Pumping Station Guided Walk, The Glow Show in the Lightning Theatre, several Melbourne Planetarium sessions, and the 4:30pm Fulldome Flicks screening of One Step Beyond. This will be a fairly full day, but the vibe will be relaxed and low-pressure. There will be breaks between sessions, and we can chat, explore the museum, grab food/coffee, or just take it easy between shows. After the final session, anyone who wants to continue hanging out can join for optional dinner at Grazeland Melbourne nearby. Solo attendees are very welcome. **Who this is for** This is good for anyone interested in science, astronomy, space, engineering, museums, planetarium shows, or just doing something a bit different on a Saturday. You do not need to know anyone beforehand. I’ll be there from 10:30am and will help people find the group. **Links** * Meetup start point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/XogEGEFLkeYryFmB7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/XogEGEFLkeYryFmB7) * Scienceworks Map: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/plan-your-visit/visitor-map/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/plan-your-visit/visitor-map/) Pumping Station Guided Walk: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/pumping-station-tour/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/pumping-station-tour/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * The Glow Show: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/the-glow-show/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/the-glow-show/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Starlight: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/starlight/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/starlight/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Black Holes: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/black-holes/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/black-holes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * "Ticket to the Universe" show: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/ticket-to-the-universe/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/ticket-to-the-universe/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Fulldome Flicks: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/fulldome-flicks/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/fulldome-flicks/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Optional dinner — Grazeland Melbourne: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUD9ZTGT41NioKbMA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUD9ZTGT41NioKbMA) **Timeline** * 10:30am — Meet at Scienceworks * 11:00am — Pumping Station Guided Walk * 12:00pm — The Glow Show * 1:00pm — Starlight * 2:00pm — Black Holes * 3:00pm — Ticket to the Universe * 4:30pm — Fulldome Flicks: *One Step Beyond* * 5:30pm — Meetup ends * Afterwards — Optional dinner at Grazeland Melbourne food court The timeline is based on the current Scienceworks session schedule, but attendees should still check the official booking page before purchasing tickets. **Tickets / cost** Please buy your own tickets for the sessions you want to attend. Meetup RSVP does not include museum entry or session tickets. Scienceworks museum entry and individual show/session pricing can vary depending on what you book, so please check the official booking page carefully before purchasing. I recently purchased a Museums Victoria Membership, as it should work out cheaper for me in the long run with multiple museum / Scienceworks visits. If you think you may visit Scienceworks, Melbourne Museum, IMAX, or other Museums Victoria events more often, you may want to check whether membership is worth it for you too. Recommended sessions to book if you want to follow the full meetup plan: * 12:00pm — The Glow Show * 1:00pm — Starlight * 2:00pm — Black Holes * 3:00pm — Ticket to the Universe * 4:30pm — Fulldome Flicks: *One Step Beyond* The Pumping Station Guided Walk is currently listed as included with museum entry, but it is “book on arrival” and may depend on guide availability and weather conditions. Fulldome Flicks may have separate entry conditions, so please check the official ticket page when booking. **Transport** Scienceworks is in Spotswood. Public transport options include train to Spotswood Station, followed by about a 10-minute walk. Please check PTV before travelling in case of disruptions. **Food** There maybe be a café option at Scienceworks during the day, but we may have limited time between some sessions. You may want to bring water and some snacks. After the final session, we can optionally head to Grazeland Melbourne for dinner. Grazeland is next to Scienceworks and is currently listed as open on Saturdays from 12 noon to 10pm, with a $4 entry fee. **Bring** * Your booked tickets / booking confirmation * Water bottle * Snacks or lunch if you prefer not to rely only on café food * Comfortable shoes * Phone charger or power bank * A light jacket **What to expect** This is a full-day museum and planetarium meetup. Most of the day will be indoors, with some walking around Scienceworks and between session spaces. The group may move fairly quickly between sessions, so please arrive on time if you want to stay with the main group. You are also welcome to join only part of the day or leave early. The vibe will be relaxed, friendly, and social. **Weather / backup** Most of the meetup is indoors, so normal rain should not be an issue. The Pumping Station Guided Walk may be affected by guide availability or weather, so if that changes on the day, we can use that time to explore Scienceworks instead. **Important notes** Please book your own tickets in advance if you want to attend the timed shows. Some sessions may sell out. Please try to book the same session times listed in the timeline so we can stay together as a group. If your plans change, please update your RSVP to “Not Going” so numbers stay clear.

**Brighton to Point Ormond – Elwood Beach** ***As it is Mothers Day next Sunday, our next walk will be the following Sunday, 17th May.*** This popular walk along the Elwood foreshore is the perfect outing for an autumn Sunday morning. Join the thousands of Melburnians who regularly walk, jog and ride this wide, well-formed path along the shores of the Bay. Our coffee stop this morning will be at Northpoint Cafe, after we’ve walked from Brighton Beach to Point Ormond and return. **Start:** Bay St, Brighton. Assemble at the beach end of Bay St. **Parking:** Park along Bay Street or in St Ninians Road, off Bay St, just back from the beach. Parking is FREE. **The Walk**: The walk is along the Bayside Trail as far as Point Ormond Lookout and then return the same way. **Total distance**: 6.0 km. **Time:** Allow 2 hours for the walk, including coffee at the end. **Difficulty:** Easy **Toilets:** At several places along the way. **Coffee:** The café at Northpoint Cafe, or other venue (selected on the day) **Cost:** Free

Join us every first and third Saturday of the month to learn about Theosophical principles and how we may apply them to our lives. From its inception in 1875, the Theosophical Society encouraged study of the Ageless Wisdom to discover enduring religious Truth and to make Brotherhood a living reality in the world. *“For real Theosophy IS ALTRUISM, and we cannot repeat it too often. It is brotherly love, mutual help, unswerving devotion to Truth.”* HP Blavatsky, Our Cycle and The Next, 1889. *The mission of the Theosophical Society is to serve humanity by cultivating an ever-deepening understanding and realization of the Ageless Wisdom, spiritual Self-transformation and the Unity of all life.* Resolution passed by the General Council of The Theosophical Society in 1924. According to these principles, a theosophic life is not just theoretical, but must also be practical, indeed must be a life of service. Amid the noise and conflict of the modern world, what might be our role, as individuals and as a Theosophical Society? Through a range of books and Theosophical pamphlets, we will look to both exoteric, widespread social principles and to more esoteric, spiritual principles for discussion and guidance.

Ready to organise a meetup event? RSVP for this event. Let me know what it is you wish to do so that I can appoint you as Event Organizer soon thereafter.

### **🚣‍♂️ 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!

3 Teams. 3 Goals. Hexagonal Pitch. A game of alliance and betrayal in equal measure. We are looking for new players and returning players alike to come play a match. Players of any ability, fitness level or background are welcomed - the game is intended to be fun for a Sunday morning rather than super competitive. If you've never played before, that's okay - the rules are as simple as this: * There's no offside - roam where you will * Defend your goal at all costs * No hands (this is soccer-style football after all) Come down for 9:00am, we make some balanced teams and warm up for the match starting at 9:15. Three thirds are played of 25 minutes each so we're usually done by about 11:00am. All fitness and soccer skill levels more than welcome and encouraged! A note regarding junior players: We very much enjoy and encourage junior players to come along and play however please be aware of the following: * As most attendees are adults, all players must be a minimum of 1.5m tall and 13 years of age. Soccer may have incidental contact when contesting a ball, and we would hate for someone small to be injured as a result of running into someone larger than them. * Any players under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a playing parent or guardian. How to find us - We meet on the astroturf pitch near the Baselball and Hockey clubs in Albert Park. The main location we use is called "Dorothy Coleman Field". If we aren't there then there may be a couple of other locations, [as noted on this dynamic map](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1JdDwV4AOV5e-xP5d56m16-eu29GlnZQ&usp=sharing) \- generally we will follow in number order\.

**PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING DETAILS:** This group is suitable for an intermediate type player. Beginners should participate in the Monday program. **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: Sunday * Time: 2.00pm-4.00pm Cost: $10 for Non-Members, $0 for Members. * Participants will play 3 sets of tennis: emphasis on having a good hit of tennis, getting some exercise and making friends. * 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 16 spots for each session.

Younkin Branch Library (Ashville) meeting space is now reserved for any and all interested in or enthused by playing a game of chess. The fourth Monday of each month, 6:00pm to 7:50pm. No fees. Chess sets provided; however, you may bring your own if you wish.

**Soulbits Circle: A Monthly Gathering** **Every fragment of your story is medicine; come weave it into being** **Hosted by: Caitlynn Fortson** **[www.kalikwellnesswithin.org](www.kalikwellnesswithin.org) \| [www.centerfornewlife.org](www.centerfornewlife.org)** **The Center for New Life or Virtual, upon request** **Monthly Circles \| Fridays 6:30\-7:30PM** **Upcoming Dates: 5/1, 5/29, 6/26, 7/24, 8/28, 9/25, 10/23, 11/27, 12/18** A monthly healing space where we gather to tend the pieces of ourselves and weave them back into wholeness that we are. Each session opens with a Soulbits oracle image setting the tone for the gathering we will move through. We will come together to honor the natural rhythms of rooting, rising, releasing, and receiving; the cycles that shape the soul’s journey. Through the four pillars of being: mindset, movement, connection & nourishment, we will create a space where imagery, sensation, and community weave together. Where the body becomes the guide, images act as mirrors, and the soul speaks. This circle is about noticing what rises, honoring what’s true, and reconnecting with the parts of yourself ready to be seen. This is a space to gather your scattered pieces, soften your body, and return to your truth with community by your side. Soulbits Circle is a reminder that every fragment of your story, every soulbit, belongs. Together we weave them into the blooming wholeness that you are. *Energy Exchange: 1-group $20-40 or 6-group $115* *Payment Options: Venmo or Cash* **Please RSVP to [Caitlynn](https://kalikwellnesswithin.org/) via** **email @ [kalik.wellnesswithin@gmail.com](mailto:kalik.wellnesswithin@gmail.com)** **text @ ‪(614) 407-4021‬** 💫

Short North Street Skates return Saturday, April 4 and we’re excited to get back rolling together. These weekly rollouts are a chance to move through the city as a group, build community, and create more visibility for skating and small-wheeled movement in Columbus. Details: Meet: 1160 N High St 9:30 AM meet 10:00 AM rollout All wheels welcome We’ll be skating through the Short North and surrounding areas at a steady, social pace. Routes will use a mix of streets and bike lanes, so comfort navigating the city is helpful, but you don’t need to be an expert. If you’ve been meaning to come out, this is a great place to start. Come solo or bring a friend!