Eating & Drinking

**🌊 Ocean Promenade Walk – Brighton Beach to Fed Square via Beacon Cove** Saturday 21 February @ 10 a.m, please meet at 9.45 am \| 16 km of flirty fun\, fresh air\, and cheeky chats. Moderate to Difficult walk mainly because it's looooong! **_⚠️Read about optional train share from Flinders St to Brighton later_** Let’s take the scenic route to connection — join us for a playful oceanfront walk from Brighton Beach to Fed Square (Transport Bar) via Beacon Cove, with plenty of stops for snacks, chats, and cheeky banter along the way. This is Eat, Drink and Dance Melbourne in motion: flirty, social, and full of potential. Celebrate the end of the journey with drinks or food at Transport Bar @ Fed Square **+++Ensure you read the rules at the end before joining. Registering = agreeing to them+++** **👟 The Route** We’ll stroll the stunning 16 km ocean promenade, hugging the coastline from Brighton Beach to Fed Square (Transport Bar) via Beacon Cove and South Bank. Expect sea breezes, café pit stops, and plenty of chances to mingle. Whether you’re here for the views or the vibe, this walk is all about connection — with the ocean and each other. Feel free to exit at any point if the effort or heat becomes a tad too much. Public transport short cuts at St.Kilda and Port Melbourne. **🍽️ Food Stops & Flirty Pauses** We’ll pause at scenic cafés and food stops along the way — perfect for grabbing a coffee, sharing a snack, or sparking a conversation. At the end, we’ll celebrate with fish and chips at Beacon Cove, or hop a tram back to Transport Bar for a cheeky drink or meal around 3 p.m. **🚉 Two Ways to Join** **Option 1**: Meet us at Brighton Beach Train Station at 9.45 am, Departing at 10a.m (last train from Flinders St.) Meet us on the car park side of the platforms for city going trains where the ticket office and toilets are. * **Option 2: Train share** Meet near Transport Bar (Federation Square), on the south western corner alongside the princes bridge and walkway at 9 am to catch the 9:17 a.m. Well leave the corner about 9.10 am. Sandringham train together (35-minute ride). This isn’t just a walk — it’s a moving mixer. Come solo or bring a friend, but be ready to meet someone new, share a laugh, and maybe even spark a little post Valentine's Day chemistry. Please take water and snacks along with sunscreen. Having comfortable walking shoes and clothes is definitely a bonus. **⚠️ Group Rules & Event Etiquette ⚠️** These are basic, commonsense standards that keep events safe, smooth, and enjoyable for everyone. **👟 Fitness Requirements** Walking: 3–4 km/hr We walk at a relaxed pace. Please ensure you meet the fitness level for the event. If the group is forced to wait excessively, you may be asked to leave the event. **⛹️ Pace: Too Fast or Too Slow** Small social events rely on staying together. If you prefer a very different pace, consider going solo, joining a faster/slower group, or choosing events that match your fitness. **👩‍💼 Time Constraints** If you’re on a tight schedule, this may not be the right event. Social activities rarely run exactly on time. **⚠️ CRITICAL EXPECTATIONS ⚠️** **👻 No‑Shows** No‑shows block waitlisted people from attending and disrupt small-group events. - Remove yourself at least 24 hours before the event. - No‑shows will likely be removed and blocked from the group. - Last‑minute cancellations **(“flaking”)** may also result in group removal, especially when there is a waitlist. **👀 Attending Without Being on the Going List** This is a security issue. **Do NOT turn up unannounced**. If you’re not on the Going list and haven’t arranged it with the organiser beforehand, you will be asked to leave. Event check‑ins are performed. **⏰ Late Arrivals** If you’re late, the group will not wait. - You may be marked as a No‑Show and removed from the group. - It’s your responsibility to communicate and catch up—this may not be possible for some events. **🎲 Second Chances** If something goes wrong, communicate with the organiser. Silence + poor behaviour = removal. Communication + accountability = second chances. As the organiser is busy organising this may be impossible during the event. **🚩Disclaimer: No Liability & Organiser Indemnity By participating in this event, you acknowledge and accept full personal responsibility for your own safety, wellbeing, and belongings. The organiser assumes no liability for injury, loss, or damage incurred during the activity. Participation is entirely at your own risk.**

**💘 Eat, Drink & Dance Melbourne: The Pre‑Valentine’s “Last‑Minute Love Grab” Party** 💘 Friday 20 February 7:00pm – 10:30pm Lustre Bar, Flinders Lane **##### !! Update - Moved to Fri 20 Feb** Melbourne, assemble your charm, your courage, and your most persuasive eyebrow raise — because Valentine’s Day has come and gone, and this is your final chance to secure a date before the city descends into roses, prix‑fixe menus, and smug couples holding hands like they invented affection. Join us at Lustre Bar, where the cocktails sparkle, the lighting forgives, and the mood is set firmly to romantic chaos. This is a night for the bold, the hopeful, the delightfully unhinged, and anyone who refuses to spend Saturday eating supermarket chocolate and tubs of ice cream like a lonely Chewbacca on the couch (again). **⚠️Expect**: * Flirty icebreakers that make “So what do you do?” feel like a relic of a more boring civilisation * Silly mini‑games designed to nudge strangers into becoming “entangled parties of interest” * A soundtrack calibrated for maximum swoon‑potential * A room full of people who are also pretending they’re “just here for fun” By 10pm, those who have successfully paired, tangled, or otherwise conspired with another human will be invited to continue the adventure as we spill into a dance venue of our choosing. Think of it as the Valentine’s Migration: a flock of seagulls abd romantically‑charged humans moving gracefully (or not) toward a dance floor where destiny, chemistry, and questionable rhythm await. Whether you leave with a Valentine, a new crush, or simply a great story, you’ll be in excellent company. **Dress code**: Cute, confident, or chaotically optimistic. **Vibe**: Romantic comedy meets mild social experiment. **Goal**: Snatch a Valentine before the clock strikes midnight on Cupid’s deadline. Come for the cocktails. Stay for the chemistry. Dance for the glory.

Hi Radiant Ladies, After our Saturday walk, join us at Windchimes Café for coffee, friendly vibes, and a relaxed catch-up. 🅿️ 2-hour parking out front. See you there! Lyn 😀

**TICKETS HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blank-an-improvised-star-wars-story-tickets-1980533956378?aff=oddtdtcreator** A live, fully improvised Star Wars movie One audience suggestion. One galaxy. No script. *Blank: An Improvised Star Wars Story* delivers hilarious, untold, and completely unofficial adventures from a galaxy far, far away. Fuelled by an audience suggestion, the cast creates a brand-new cinematic spectacle live onstage—introducing original characters, unseen worlds, and the stories Disney would never dare to tell. Familiar faces may appear, but nothing is predetermined. Each performance is a fully self-contained chapter of Star Wars, crafted in real time using the language of film: smash cuts, sweeping reveals, quiet character moments, and epic finales. With no script and no safety net, the performers become the actors, writers, directors, and crew—building an entire movie before your eyes. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or completely new to the galaxy, this is fast-paced, geeky comedy *is* the show you’re looking for!

Mornings are for good coffee and better conversations. Join us for a relaxed meetup designed to skip small talk and get straight to real connection. We’ll rotate through a few light chats! It’s casual, welcoming, and perfect for anyone new to Melbourne or just wanting deeper connections.

Hi everyone, Hope you are off to a good start in '26! Our first event for the year will be drinks at the Brighton Beach Hotel (beer garden) on Saturday 21st Feb. Please rsvp if you will attend (and update if you can no longer attend) as will need to advise the venue of attendee numbers. I look forward to seeing you there. Kind regards, Peter.

This year's Lunar New Year starts on 17 February. So in honour of the Year of the Horse and having listened to your suggestions for the letter B, we're going to Box Hill. **ITINERARY (TBC)** 11am - Meet at the entrance of Box Hill Train Station. This is the plan: * Visit Fo Guang Shan Box Hill Temple * Yumcha for lunch (or equivalent Asian food) * See a lion dance together (if there's one when we're there) * Visit an Asian supermarket. In short, we're going to wander around and soak up the Lunar New Year ambience, Box Hill style. P.S. There's an organizer fee of $10 for this event. You can PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low). **Note:** I am capping the group at 9 persons to fit a round table in a Chinese restaurant and because yumcha servings typically come in threes. If you are no longer able to attend, please update your status to Not Going.

🥟🔥 **Momos, Mirth & Magnificent Flavours!** 🔥🥟 **Dinner at Aagaman Indian–Nepalese Restaurant, Rosanna** Calling all adventurous eaters (and confirmed **momo freaks** — yes, it’s absolutely a THING 😆) from the **Melbourne Women’s Over 50 Friendship Group – Northern Branch**! We’re off to **Aagaman Indian Nepalese Restaurant** for a dinner that’s a little bit different and *very* delicious. Expect gorgeous Nepalese flavours alongside Indian favourites — think dumplings you dream about, spices that flirt (not shout), and plates you’ll want to talk about all night. 📅 **Friday 21st February** 🕕 **6:00 PM** 📍 **137 Lower Plenty Rd, Rosanna VIC 3084** Why you’ll love it: 🥟 Nepalese momos (steamed, juicy, legendary) 🌶️ Fabulous, less-ordinary flavours 😂 Laughter, friendship, and zero cooking or washing up Come hungry, come curious, and come ready to declare your undying love for dumplings. This is dinner with personality — and excellent company to match. ✨ RSVP wisely — momo regret is real if you miss out 😉 MENU: https://aagamanrestaurant.com.au/aagaman-rosanna-lower-plenty-rd/ Parking over the road and around the corner. At 6pm won't be an issue.

We will meet at the starting point. Take a round trip to St. Kilda Botanical Garden, hang for a coffee/ bite in between, then loop back to the start. If you don’t feel like coffee/bite, you are welcome to just join us for a walk. Take it slow and start from there. Come join us for a chilaxing catchup! **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30mins in advance. We will wait up to 15mins before heading off. Once we start, we won't be able to keep track with messages. **\-\-\- RSVP/ Change of Plan \-\-\-** If you change your plan or decide not to attend. Please update your RSVP, so others can attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos to Friends….Expand Your Social Circle Meetup group is a community of individuals who prefer to take it slow to get to know people over time in Melbourne. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, chilling, culture exchanging, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **\-\-\- WhatsApp Group \-\-\-** We use WhatsApp for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the WhatsApp Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * taking advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

**🌞 Delectable Summer Evening Social Stroll: Full Yarra Bend Circuit - Moderate to Difficult** **Saturday 17 January - 4.30 PM AM..Arrive at 4.15 PM please** Join us for a long, lazy, laughter‑filled summer evening social stroll tracing the full Yarra Bend circuit — a gorgeous loop of river bends, bushland, boardwalks, rising flying foxes and iconic Melbourne nooks. This is our expanded version of the smaller Yarra Bend walk many of you enjoyed, now stretched into a full, flirty, scenic adventure. *Now that I've done the walk, I have to update the difficulty level lol. Its mostly easy but there are rough sections that you could expect in a proper bushwalk* ***+++Ensure you read the rules at the end before joining. Registering = agreeing to them+++*** We’ll begin at the Abbotsford Convent, (or more specifically st the Collingwood children's farm entrance), wander past Dights Falls, pause for snacks at the Studley Park Boathouse, and follow the river’s contours through some of the most beautiful natural pockets in inner Melbourne. Expect birdsong, breezes, shady gums, and plenty of social mingling along the way. You can choose your own finale: * 11 km Full Yarra Bend Circuit ending back at the Convent, or * 14 km Extended Merri Creek Trail Option finishing at Rushall Station for those who want a little extra summer sparkle in their step. 🕙 **Timing** Meet at 4:15 p.m. at the gates of the Collingwood Children’s Farm (about 50m from the Convent entrance at the end of the road). **\- Walk begins at 4:30 p\.m\. sharp\. hopefully after the worst heat of the day and on the beautiful late afternoon coolness**. * Expect 3–4 hours depending on pace, weather, silly jokes, banter, and snack enthusiasm. My priority is having a relaxing time so I'm not following a strict timetable. **☕ Mid‑Walk Pause** We’ll stop at Studley Park Boathouse or the Golf course cafe ror more reliable coffee,, a sit down cold drinks, or a light bite. Bring a little cash or card if you’d like to indulge. **🚶 Route Highlights** * The leafy bends of the Yarra * Dights Falls lookout * Riverbank boardwalks and shaded bushland * Roosting Flying Foxes * Abbotsford Convent * Studley Park Boathouse * Optional Merri Creek extension to Rushall Station * Plenty of photo spots, conversation pockets, and nature‑soaked moments **🚆 Getting There** * Train to Victoria Park Station is the easiest option, followed by a short walk to the Convent. * Parking at the Convent can be a gamble on weekends — arrive early if you’re trying your luck or choose elsewhere. **👀 Stuff to know** The walk cam be quite rough in a few places, expect some minor scrambles on rough and slippery ground **🌿 What to Bring** * Comfortable walking shoes * Comfortable walking clothes * Water 2 litres * Sunscreen and a hat * A light snack if you like * Curiosity, good humour, and your best summer social energy 😜What not to bring * Purses, Tote bags, long dresses * Clothes more suitable for Chadstone than a rough urban hike * Jeans aren't a good idea. **⚠️ Group Rules and Event Etiquette ⚠️** These are basic, commonsense standards that keep events safe, smooth, and enjoyable for everyone. **Fitness Requirements**: This should be an easy to moderate walk for people with average fitness. Ensure you can walk around 4km/hr for about 4 hours with breaks. Walk 15km comfortably with a small pack. We walk at a relaxed pace. Please ensure you meet the fitness level for the event. If the group is forced to wait excessively, you may be asked to leave the event. **⛹️ Pace: Too Fast or Too Slow** Small social group events rely on staying together. If you prefer a very different pace, consider attending solo, joining a faster/slower group, or choosing events that match your fitness.. **👩‍💼 Time Constraints** If you’re on a tight schedule, this may not be the right event. Social activities rarely run exactly on time **⚠️ CRITICAL EXPECTATIONS ⚠️** **👻 No‑Shows** No‑shows block waitlisted people from attending and disrupt small-group events. * Remove yourself at least 24 hours before the event. * No‑shows will likely be removed and blocked from the group. * Last‑minute cancellations (“flaking”) may also result in removal, especially when there is a waitlist. **👀 Attending Without Being on the Going List** This is a security issue. **Do NOT turn up unannounced**. If you’re not on the Going list and haven’t arranged it with the organiser beforehand, you will be asked to leave. Event check‑ins are being introduced **⏰ Late Arrivals** If you’re late, the group will not wait. * You may be marked as a No‑Show and removed from the group. * It’s your responsibility to communicate and catch up—this may not be possible for some events. **🎲 Second Chances** If something goes wrong, attempt to communicate with the organiser. Silence + poor behaviour = removal. Communication + accountability = second chances. This may not be possible during the event as the organiser is busy organising.

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan PS FOR VEGETARIANS / VEGANS: I'm checking with the Drexel now to confirm that veg / vegan options will be available. Their regular menu DOES list both options so I think we should be okay. I'll update this note once confirmed.

**It's National Margarita Day!** Let's throw off our winter blahs and bask in the delight of margaritas and mexican food! We'll find a good spot...or, two to gather for drink specials, food and fiesta. [El Vaquero](https://www.vaquerorestaurant.com/menus) on Rte 161 Dublin has a huge bar area where we'll meet. Those wanting to sit down and eat dinner can grab a seat at our reserved table. Those just there for margs and chips n salsa can hang out in the bar. Their wonderful ***Happy Hour lasts til 8pm every night - Jumbo Margarita $9.99 Flavor $10.99!***