Dance and Movement

Join me for a Thursday Night Cardio Blast. This 1 hour Dance Mixx class features the best routines to get you moving. Cardio dance routines for 30 mins followed by Strength and resistance training. $10 trial available, with the option of 2 months unlimited classes for just $99. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Join me for a Friday Morning Dance Mixx, featuring the best Cardio and Strength Routines of 2025. $10 trial class available at the door.

**🧗Climbing, onwards and upwards to the Pub: A Vertical Social Adventure** Eat Drink Dance Melbourne – Social Rock Climbing Night Hardrock Climbing, Swanston St (CBD) Thursday 8 January 2026 ****### Before considering going on this event make sure you read the group rules section at the end ###**** **Venue information** inc costs. [Hard Rock Climbing](https://www.hardrock.com.au/prices/) You will need to purchase entry and at a minimum also a rock climbing harness, you also have the option to hire climbing shoes (for a better experience) and chalk although these are not exactly necessary if you are new to the sport. Ready to swap the dance floor for a climbing wall and flirt with gravity for a couple of hours? Join us for Climbing to Pub, a fun, social, slightly chaotic vertical adventure right in the heart of Melbourne. We’ll spend around 2 hours at Hardrock Melbourne (CBD) scaling colourful walls, cheering each other on, and discovering which muscles we forgot existed. Afterwards, for those who want to keep the good vibes rolling, we’ll wander over to a Pub for dinner and drinks from around 8.30pm or earlie—because nothing says “I conquered a wall” like a cold beverage and a hearty feed. **What to Bring** - Water (hydration = happiness) - Small towel - Comfortable, stretchy clothes - Runners (or hire climbing shoes for a much better grip-and-zip experience) - A big carbohydrate snack to keep the energy flowing - Your best “I swear I’m not afraid of heights” attitude **For First‑Timers & New Gym Climbers** If you’ve never climbed before—or you’re new to Hardrock—you’ll need to complete a compulsory safety induction. The friendly staff will outfit you with a harness and teach you how to belay safely (aka: how to hold your climbing partner’s life in your hands with confidence and charm). We’ll be doing roped climbing, so teamwork is part of the fun. **A Note from Your (Very Rusty) Host** Once upon a time I was a climbing and mountaineering instructor… and then came lockdowns, injuries, hand surgeries, and a long break from the vertical arts. So I’ll be right there with you on the baby beginner climbs, laughing, wobbling, and rediscovering my forearms. No pressure, no ego—just a group of friendly humans having a go. **What to Expect** - A fun, flirty, low‑stakes social atmosphere - Lots of cheering, laughing, and “wait, how do I get down?” moments - A guaranteed dose of DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) if you haven’t exercised in a while - A perfect warm‑up for the group’s cycling rides if you want to get those muscles activated Climbing is one of the best social sports around—shared challenge, shared triumph, and plenty of opportunities to chat between climbs. Whether you’re a seasoned wall‑scrambler or a total newbie, you’re welcome. Let’s climb, laugh, flirt with gravity… and then wander to the pub. If you do not get there on time ask at reception for the Meetup group run by Mark **Group Rules and Event Etiquette** **Fitness Requirements**: As this is a beginner event I don't have expectations, but it is a physical sport so having some basic strength would be good. **If people have time constraints** Best to give yourself some wiggle room, Things rarely go to time due to various factors especially in big groups and when you're having fun. But for climbing this is relaxed, exit at will. **+++VERY IMPORTANT+++** **People who do a No Show**. This is unfortunately too common for small group events, there may be people in a waitlist wanting to come on the event and is very inconsiderate. Remove yourself from the going list at least 24 hours before the event to give people on the waitlist an opportunity. **If you do a No Show you will be removed and blocked from the group**. If you remove yourself from the event an hour or two before the event (flaking) you may also be blocked and removed from the group, this is also unfair to people on the waitlist. Please communicate with me if you do not want to be blocked and removed from the group. **People who turn up without registering** This is a major security concern, **DO NOT DO THIS**.You will be asked to leave the event unless you have made arrangements with the organiser **PRIOR** to the event. **People Who Are Late** You will be left behind and or removed and blocked from the group as a **No Show**. It is your responsibility to communicate with me if to think you will be late.. It"s up to you to catch up. This may not be possible on some events.

**\* CLOSED - NO CLASSES** **THE BENTLEIGH CUBAN SALSA** **& BACHATA DANCE CLASSES** are currently **CLOSED** for the **CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR BREAK** **\* THE 2026 BENTLEIGH CUBAN SALSA & BACHATA CLASSES** **start back date will be confirmed in the new year.**

Turn your Thursday evening into something special! Join us at **600 Little Collins St, Melbourne** for a **free beginners Salsa class** that’s all about great music, great people, and unforgettable energy. You don’t need a partner or any experience — just come ready to have fun and learn something new. ✨ **What makes it amazing:** * Easy-to-follow steps designed for first-timers * A vibrant, welcoming crowd * The perfect mix of fun, movement, and social connection 📍 **Where:** The Salsa Foundation — 600 Little Collins St, Melbourne 🕕 **When:** Thursday 6 PM (arrive 5–10 mins early to check in) 🎟️ **Cost:** Free — bookings essential (spots fill quickly!)

Get ready for a night full of rhythm, passion, and Latin vibes at Pachanga Bar Melbourne! 💃🕺 Join us every Thursday for our Bachata & Salsa Social Night — the perfect midweek escape to dance, learn, and connect with amazing people. ✨ What to expect: * 🕣 8:30 PM – Free Bachata Class (Perfect for beginners and anyone who wants to improve their moves) * 💃 9:30 PM till Midnight – Social Dance Party with the best Bachata, Salsa & Latin hits * 🍸 Free Entry * 📍 Pachanga Bar – 95 Queen Street, Melbourne CBD No partner or experience needed — just bring your best energy and a big smile! Enjoy delicious cocktails, meet friendly people, and let the Latin beats take over the dance floor.

Happy 2026, everyone! The happy playlist includes: I Feel Good - James Brown Shiny Happy People - REM If It Makes You Happy - Sheryl Crow Happy - Pharrell Williams Happy Together - The Turtles Happy Days TV theme Can't Stop The Feeling - Justin Timberlake Don't Worry Be Happy - Bobby McFerrin Say Geronimo - Sheppard and lots more! What to bring Please bring your own ukulele. If you can't find one in time, I have three spare ukuleles that you can borrow for this meetup. You can reserve them by leaving a comment in the comments section below. You can bring snacks/food to the venue and the bar will be open. A wide range of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase at very reasonable prices. The session is free but there is a donation box if you like our sessions and want to contribute to our operating expenses. Meeting place Venue will be the Flemington-Kensington RSL, 25-27 Rankins Road, Kensington, VIC 3031. How to Get There Train - From the city, catch a Craigieburn Line train and get off at Newmarket Station, which is 3 stops from Southern Cross Station or 2 stops from North Melbourne. Exit the station, walk 200 metres to Racecourse Road. Head east (away from the station) along Racecourse Road for 250 metres. Then turn right into Rankins Road. The RSL is about 100 metres down Rankins Road, on your left. Tram - The No. 57 tram from the city to West Maribyrnong stops about 200 metres away from the RSL. Get off at stop 25 (Wellington St & Racecourse Rd). Head east along Racecourse Rd and turn right into Rankins Road. Driving - Park along Rankins Road or Parsons Street (around the corner). If you park along Rankins Road outside the RSL, there is a 2-hour limit. But if you park further down Rankins Road (one block further), there is no limit. How we conduct our sessions For the first 30 minutes we usually play very easy songs which are suitable for beginners (even complete beginners), and serve as a warm-up for more experienced players. Beginners, try to attend this part of the session, it's the most important bit for you! The next 30 minutes is usually devoted to learning new songs, according to the theme of week. There will be a 15-minute break in the middle and the last 45 minutes is spent playing songs that participants pick from a list. Important If you are late, please use the meetup app to send messages to me. If you can't attend at the last minute, please change your RSVP or send a message. cheers, Fi Like our Facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/melbourneukulelecommunity/](https://www.facebook.com/melbourneukulelecommunity/)

🌸 **Mid Summa Social Bar Night** 🌆 **Saturday 10 January 7:00 PM @ Lustre Bar, Melbourne CBD Optional Dance Extension @ Fadd Gallery from 10:00 PM** Or we'll figure it out on the night. **Update:** Happy hour cocktails for all the ladys and lady boyz between 7 and 10. No luck on discounts for knuckle draggers like me though 😭 Melbourne’s social scene is blooming again—and so are we. Join us for the first night of Eat, Drink and Dance, 🌸 . Think candlelight, cocktails, and the kind of atmosphere that makes introductions feel effortless. Whether you come solo or with a wingperson, you’ll find yourself in easy orbit with friendly others who are curious, open, and ready to vibe. Expect flirty banter, warm welcomes, and the kind of conversations that start with “So what brings you here?” and end with “You have to meet my friend…” If you’re a woman who’s outgrown the backpacker and dive bar circuit and a man who prefers charm over chaos—this one’s for you. 💃 Part Two: Open option but this is a regular haunt. Think Whiteheart Bars off Little Bourke St or Swing & Sway at Fadd Gallery (from 10:00 PM) _Address:14 Corrs Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000. About 5 or so minutes walk away just off Little Bourke St in China Town._ When the clock strikes ten, the rhythm calls. We’ll drift to either Whiteheart Bar or Fadd Gallery, Who knows maybe QT Rooftop Bar is also on the way, where the dance floor pulses with throwback magic—70s funk, 80s synth, and 90s pop that knows how to flirt. Whether you’re a shoulder-shrugger, a hip-swinger, or just there for the vibe, this is your chance to move, mingle, and maybe make a memory or two. Come for the cocktails, stay for the chemistry. Eat. Drink. Dance. Repeat. **Notes** If you can't make it please update your RSVP. The bar has a very limited capacity and it's always courteous to allow people on the waitlist a chance to come.

**LEC Back to Dance Day is your invitation to reset, reconnect, and step into 2026 with energy!** This immersive day of Salsa Dancing is designed for dancers with some prior experience - whether you’re new to LEC or returning after a break. Instead of overwhelming you with long classes, we’ve curated short, focused sessions that help you: \- Reignite your Salsa passion \- Feel confident in your movement \- Reconnect with your body and the music \- Experience the energy and culture of LEC Dance School You’ll be guided by multiple LEC teachers through a dynamic mix of partnerwork, footwork, and body movement, finishing with a fun shines 'jam' session with a group of our instructors - designed to awaken your energy for the year ahead. **What to Expect:** Welcome & warm-up/social 3 focused dance sessions Mini social to finish A look at class pathways & memberships for 2026 **Who this is for:** \- Dancers with some experience \- New dancers to LEC \- Returning students feeling a little rusty/holiday mode \- Anyone ready to start the year with movement & intention Not suitable for complete first-timers with zero dance experience. (See our Beginner courses!) **When & Where:** La Encantada Collective – 69 Abbotsford Street, West Melbourne January 10th - 11:00am - 2:00pm Limited spots available, numbers are capped. EARLYBIRD price $25 until Monday 5th Jan. **Bookings essential.** Book your spot and start 2026 dancing! [https://momence.com/l/a8hMWdzg](https://momence.com/l/a8hMWdzg?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExSHFzYUowYkVObFZLc1UyUXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5sFgYnmsVoyov0TRW3R8VnMCiRSwvjyK1ZaU5yQUTwbz4vPHpOQrPpgvhn_Q_aem_4-wdZWOpfFmcUOFFiov7KA)

## **Bachata ConeXión Saturdays: 'Red Velvet Nights' 💃🌹** **Bachateros of Melbourne—the wait is over!** We are kicking off 2026 in spectacular style. Join us for the launch of our brand-new Saturday residency: **'Red Velvet Nights.'** This is more than just a social; it’s an unforgettable dance experience designed to connect the Melbourne Bachata family. ### **✨ THE DETAILS** * **📅 Date:** Saturday, 10th of January * **📍 Location:** Sokol Melbourne Inc (497 Queensberry Street, North Melbourne) * **👗 Dress Code:** Red and/or Black (Dress to impress!) *** ### **⏰ THE SCHEDULE** * **8:00 PM:** Bachata Workshop (Open Level) — Sharpen your skills before the party starts! * **9:00 PM – 1:00 AM:** Social Dancing (The main event) ### **🎵 THE MUSIC & VIBE** We’ve curated a world-class lineup of DJs to keep the floor burning: * **The Mix:** 70% Bachata, 30% Salsa + a touch of Kizomba and Zouk * **The DJs:** DJ Pombo, DJ JT (Spain), and DJ Spanky *** ### **💰 PRICING (Book Online to Save!)** Avoid the queues and save money by booking your spot early. 👉 https://www.trybooking.com/DIEVM *** ### **📍 HOW TO FIND US** **Sokol Melbourne Inc** is located in North Melbourne. Search **"497 Queensberry st"** in Google Maps for direct navigation. We will have our team at the door to welcome you into the family! **Connecting the Bachata Community of Melbourne! Everyone is welcome.** *Stay Updated: Follow us on Instagram **@bachataconexion***

This is a weekly event for our community to meet in-person at the beautiful Yarra Bend forest for some inspiring mindful walking and movement. We do this movement practice online twice each weekday (7am and 7pm) - but this is our community's chance to meet up in real life! Specifically the practice is called Good Vibrancy and is a fairly concise 30-minute practice involving a sequence of... \- Breath\-work for inspiration \- Movement for grace \- Compassion for love/gratitude \- Mindfulness for balance \- Visualisation for intention \- Qi Gong for abundance It is designed to align one's whole self (mind, body, spirit) around one's higher ideals - for example freedom and abundance. This not only feels amazing but also, over time, will make success a simple and straight-forward choice - because limitations, distractions and complications will become increasingly irrelevant. If this is your first time doing the practice you will likely feel highly elated from engaging with your fullest self (perhaps for the first time - and on a public beach). This is not a bad thing it's just part of the process of starting a new practice - stick with it and you will feel grounded and refreshed. The visualisation part (Life Visualisation) involves reimagining your past "story" and future "script". So please have a general idea of your ideal life/future in mind and note that if you have unresolved trauma it's not a good time to delve into that aspect of your past. The compassion part of the practice (Heart Invocation) involves a short/silent/personal prayer (because this is an effective method of tuning into abundant, universal love) - if you don't want to pray you can sit this part out but please respect other peoples' choice to pray. Perhaps around 11.45am we will go to Studley Park Boathouse for lunch for about 45-min - if you are attending lunch please purchase a beverage or something to eat! Thanks

# **Band: The Pegheads; Caller: Liz Burkhart** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

Let's meet at one of our fav clubs for good drink and socializing before this great cover band plays at 9:00pm. [LDNL](https://ldnl.net) (hip hop, r&b, pop) ***No cover***. Attire: dressy casual. **FOOD AND DRINK**\*: Drinks. No food service. Bring your own or order in.\* As usual, I'll have a basket of SNACKS on hand. Parking in lots surrounding the big red barn (property community center off Hayden Run). [https://livethebarn.com](https://livethebarn.com)

# **Band: Old Possum's Menagerie; Caller: Richard Ades** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

**Caller: Dan Kappus** **Band: Trillium** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Salsamante Dance Academy will be at Swerve to share the Rhythm & Energy of Bachata & Salsa. These are Beginner Level lessons to get you comfortable and understand the two dances. Spread the Good News to all. Swerve Dance & Fitness Complex 640 Lakeview Plaza Blvd A, Worthington, OH 43085 Bachata 7pm-8pm Salsa 8pm-9pm $15 - One Lesson $20 - Both Lessons