English as a Second Language

This session we turn to the strange, dark, and darkly comic worlds of the Coen Brothers with two of their most distinctive films: No Country for Old Men (2007) and Barton Fink (1991). Both films explore characters who find themselves trapped in worlds they barely understand. In No Country for Old Men, a quiet act of greed sets off a relentless chain of violence across the Texas borderlands, raising haunting questions about fate, morality, and whether the modern world has simply become too brutal to comprehend. In Barton Fink, a New York playwright arrives in Hollywood hoping to write meaningful art, only to descend into a surreal nightmare of writer’s block, strange neighbours, and the suffocating machinery of the film industry. Despite their very different tones—one stark and minimalist, the other claustrophobic and absurd—both films share the Coens’ fascination with existential dread, moral ambiguity, and the limits of human understanding. For this meetup: Watch both films beforehand. Come ready to discuss themes, style, performances, and the Coens’ unique blend of philosophy, genre, and dark humour. Some questions we might explore: Is Anton Chigurh a human character, or something closer to fate itself? What does Barton Fink say about art, Hollywood, and the role of the “writer”? How do the Coens use genre (western, thriller, noir, surrealism) to explore deeper philosophical ideas? Why do so many Coen characters seem overwhelmed by the worlds they inhabit? As always, this is a discussion group—we don’t watch the films together. Watch them beforehand and bring your thoughts, interpretations, and favourite moments. Whether you love the Coens or are discovering them for the first time, this should be a fascinating conversation.

## 🇯🇵 Progressi部: Japanese-English Language & Culture Exchange 🇦🇺 **"Serious Study, Authentic Community" — 本気で学び、本気で交流する。** Join us for our weekly exchange designed for those dedicated to practicing Japanese and English. This is a space to improve your language skills, share cultural insights, and make new, like-minded friends in a respectful environment. ### 🎯 Who This Group Is For We welcome individuals who are here to **actively practice their Japanese or English**. Whether you are looking for a study partner or want to learn more about culture, this is a community for focused and meaningful interaction. **✅ 受付方法 / Event Check-in (Strictly Required)** 到着の際、必ず主催者に以下の提示をお願いします / Upon arrival, please present the following to the organizer: * **Meetupの参加申し込み（RSVP）画面をご提示ください。** / Show your Meetup RSVP confirmation screen. * **予約なし（No RSVP）での参加はお断りしております。** / No walk-ins permitted without a confirmed RSVP. * **Participation Fee: $3 CASH** Non-Japanese citizens. ### 🚫 Conduct & Safety Policy To ensure a high-quality experience for all members, we maintain a strict standard of behavior: * **Immediate Ban:** Any individual found guilty of misconduct or creating "trouble" will be banned from the group immediately.**.** * **Organizer Authority:** The Organizer reserves the right to remove any member at their sole discretion to maintain the safety and integrity of the community. * **Respectful Interaction:** All members are expected to be polite and mindful of others. Do not make fellow participants feel uncomfortable or pressured. * **Privacy:** Please respect the personal boundaries of others. Do not pressure members for private contact information. **If any member makes you feel uncomfortable, please report it immediately to the organizers: Shin, David, or Ray.** *** ### 📝 Event Details * **Time:** Saturday, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM * **Arrival:** Please arrive **10–15 minutes early** due to limited seating. * **Entry Fee:** **$3 CASH** (Non-Japanese citizens). This contribution covers monthly meetup hosting fees. * **Photography:** Photos will be taken during the event for our community archives. ### 🇯🇵 日本語でのご案内 メルボルン市内のカフェで、本気で学べる日英言語文化交流会を主催しています。 * **目的:** 日本語・英語の練習、そして同じ目標を持つ友人作りを目的としています。 * **参加費:** 日本国籍以外の方は $3ドル（現金のみ）。 * **ルール:** 迷惑行為やトラブルを起こす方の参加は一切禁止です。主催者の判断により、即座に退会・出入り禁止の措置を取らせていただきます。 * 困ったことがあれば、すぐにオーガナイザー（Shin, David, Ray）までお知らせください。 ### 🔗 Connect With Us * **Facebook:** [facebook.com/groups/progressibu](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu) * **X (Twitter):** [twitter.com/progressibu](https://www.google.com/search?q=http://twitter.com/progressibu)

This is a relaxed, social meetup for anyone interested in practicing Korean or English — no teachers, no lessons, no pressure! We’ll just hang out, chat, and get to know each other while switching between Korean and English as much (or as little) as you like. Whether you’re a fluent speaker or just learning “안녕,” you’re welcome here. Bring good vibes, maybe a drink or snack, and let’s have some fun conversations together! Last attendees must arrive by 8:30pm!

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

Join us at Speak Easy Melbourne for a fun and interactive language exchange meetup where we will be practicing both Japanese and English conversational skills. Whether you are a beginner or fluent speaker, this event is perfect for anyone looking to improve their language skills in a relaxed and informal setting. Come meet new friends, engage in conversations, and enhance your language learning journey. Our experienced language facilitators will guide you through various activities designed to help you practice English and Japanese in a supportive and welcoming environment. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a culturally enriching experience while honing your language proficiency. Let's chat, learn, and have a great time together!

Join me to experience over 140 works of two of the most visionary and influential fashion designers in recent history, Vivienne Westwood and Rei Kawakubo. We will meet, explore the exhibition, and have a tea, coffee or something to eat together from the Arts Centre Cafe in the NGV gardens. *‘Emerging in the 1970s, both rebelled against rigid social expectations to find artistic and economic freedom through fashion. Self-taught iconoclasts who challenged the ‘rules’ of dress, their work is grounded in the desire for change. Throughout their careers, Westwood and Kawakubo have reframed ideas of beauty, gender and the relationship between body and garment through their rejection of fashion norms.’* Entry to this event is ticketed, a full priced Adult ticket is $40 For more info and to book tickets: [https://connect.ngv.vic.gov.au/70406](https://connect.ngv.vic.gov.au/70406 "https://connect.ngv.vic.gov.au/70406") When booking, book the 2pm Entry time Tickets can be purchased directly from the NGV ahead of the date, without transaction fees. **Location:** National Gallery of Victoria, International 180 St Kilda Road Melbourne **Agenda:** I will meet you outside the NGV at **1.45pm** so we are ready to head in at **2pm**. We will explore the exhibition until around 4pm, then head to the Arts Centre cafe for a tea or coffee together. When you RSVP, please click Attend on the event page and I will be in touch about the details, and any questions you have. I will also be using Event Comments on the day to stay connected with everyone.

**Saturday \| 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM** 📍 **Kerekere Green Cafe (Fitzroy Gardens)** Start your day with good coffee and great conversations. Join Bondaroo for a relaxed morning **Coffee Chat** where you can meet new people, share stories, and ease into the weekend. Whether you’re new to Melbourne or just looking to connect with others, this casual meetup is a friendly space to chat, make friends, and enjoy one of Melbourne’s iconic cafés. **What to expect:** ☕ Casual coffee and conversations 🤝 Meet international students and locals 🗣 Practice English in a relaxed setting 🌏 Share experiences and tips about living in Melbourne Just grab a coffee, pull up a chair, and join the conversation. See you there! **Note**: This event has limited spots. Please only RSVP if you plan to attend. If your plans change, kindly cancel your RSVP so someone else can join. ✨ **Bondaroo** **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * Adherence to the liability waiver is mandatory: [Read here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=sharing) * By attending this event, you are consent to our media policy: [Read here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=sharing)

Our late afternoon get-together (from time to time) (4-6pm) for a drink and conversation *en français* at Southgate food court by the Yarra river. It is easy to find. We will get together in the sheltered seating area (as per photo above) outside the food court *en plein air.* Southgate food court is just across the river from Flinders Street Station. We can buy a glass of wine or hot drink inside the food court. A glass of wine costs $11 at Grill'd or Rhumbas. Any change of arrangement, will be posted on the meetup website.

We will get-together at the KereKere cafe - at the community table just inside the cafe entrance. *This is a group for people with intermediate and advanced level French who are able to engage in a conversation en français. It is not suitable for beginners.* The cafe is close to the corner of Wellington Parade and Lansdowne St, East Melbourne in the Fitzroy Gardens. It takes about 5 minutes on Tram 75 from Flinders St Station, or 15 minute walk. Car parking around Fitzroy Gardens on Sundays now is $2 per hour with a 4 hour limit, Some parking is limited to 1 hour even on Sunday. And occasionally, if there is a game at the MCG for example there might not be much parking at all. Price: The event fee is $4.00 - cash necessary! . and please be sure you are a member of MyFrenchLife.org before attending reunion - merci https://www.MyFrenchLife.org. The event fees are transferred to MyFrenchLife contributing to the meetup platform - thank you. À bientôt ! Veronica and Daniel Réunion Hosts MyFrenchLife.org

How about we kick off the best day with a jog and coffee together? Trust me, you won't want to miss out! 🏃‍♂️Training menu🏃‍♂️ Every Sunday 8:00~ Fed Square Assembly 【https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmPQ6U533pUDcNSA9?g_st=ic】 If you have luggage, please consider using the lockers at the station. 💥40~60 min Jog+Walk Pace: Easy pace, suitable for beginners. If you got tired, let's walk together. 【schedule】 8:00 Gathering 8:10 Start 9:00 End of training Challengers we are waiting for you 😊

Join us for a relaxed Sunday morning picnic followed by a visit to the vibrant **Indonesian Festival at Queen Victoria Market**. It’s a great chance to enjoy good food, meet new people, and experience Indonesian culture together. **Meetup Location:** 📍 **Flagstaff Gardens – Picnic Area** (on Google Maps), near the playground 🕚 **11:00 AM** **Highlights & Activities** 🧺 **Picnic at Flagstaff Gardens (11:00 AM – 12:00 PM)** We’ll start with a casual picnic at the park. Bring some snacks to share and relax while getting to know others. 🥘 **Indonesian Festival at Queen Victoria Market (12:00 – 1:30 PM)** After the picnic, we’ll head to Queen Vic Market to explore the Indonesian festival, grab lunch, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Participants are free to roam around the market and check out the food and stalls. 🎉 **Optional Festival Time** Our event officially finishes at **1:30 PM**, but you’re welcome to stay longer and enjoy the festival, which continues until **5:00 PM**. **Note**: This event has limited spots. Please only RSVP if you plan to attend. If your plans change, kindly cancel your RSVP so someone else can join. **What to bring:** • Snacks to share • Water bottle • Picnic blanket or mat (optional) • Check the weather and dress accordingly Come along for a laid-back Sunday of **picnic, culture, and community**. ✨ **Bondaroo** **Community Rules** ✨ * This is a rain-or-shine event. * 18+ only. * Maintain respect and no unsolicited contact. * No advertising and selling during the event. * Adherence to the liability waiver is mandatory: [Read here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hKqVIMcXMFdzvpjqO3KRf_uQ5xAzd-jt/view?usp=sharing) * By attending this event, you are consent to our media policy: [Read here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rgNOcewZs-tKYUEBt3gV84hob1HdDXydjrGf_tEiXjQ/edit?usp=sharing)

JAPAN NIGHT FESTIVAL 5 – Cherry Blossom EDITION Presented by MELLIFE Date: Saturday, 28th March 2026 (SAT) Time: 6:00pm – 10:00pm Venue: La Di Da (Melbourne CBD) ID required at entry (passport, license, etc.) TICKET INFO (LIMITED TO 500) Ticket link below チケットはこちらから! https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/japan-night-festival-5-presented-by-mellife-jpen-social-community-tickets-1983252113459?aff=oddtdtcreator&utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAb21jcAQNxiZleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA81NjcwNjczNDMzNTI0MjcAAafT_E3zYicO3BptEGlKsg82z2XAjDa0AwIF21YVratILytwQ5lmYpDlpGbjpQ_aem_GPvUHbVArqdkWJ1_N_t4uQ ・$15 Early Bird (+ Web Fee) ・$20 Pre-sale (+ Web Fee) (until sold out or 11:55pm, 27/03/26) ・$30 Door Price (+ Web Fee) (if available) ONLINE PAYMENT ONLY No cash accepted on the day After welcoming 700+ attendees at our past event, Japan Night Festival is BACK — bigger, better, and even hotter ! If you love REAL Japanese culture, music, drinks, and that electric Melbourne nightlife… YOU’RE IN THE RIGHT PLACE! SCHEDULE OF THE NIGHT 6:00pm – Doors Open 6:30pm – 6:45pm: RIN SAKURA: Singer performance 7:15pm: Rock-Paper-Scissors Tournament (Win amazing prizes including a $100 Myer gift card, a $50 Amazon gift card, and more!) 7:45pm: F5ve Group Dance performance 8:30pm – 2am: CLUB TIME! J-POP / K-POP / Anime / International Party Hits ***IMPORTANT*** From 10:00pm onward, the venue will be operated by a different organisation. MELLIFE is not responsible for any incidents occurring after that time. WE LOVE COSTUMES! IF YOU COME Wearing full cosplay or a kimono ENTRY IS FREE! (ID still required) *neck above cosplay will not be accepted and require ticket purchase. Whether you’re going traditional or creative, we welcome your style! FOOD & DRINKS Japanese street food will be available (menu TBA). And of course – authentic Japanese drinks including: ・ Japanese Highball ・ Lemon Sour ・ Umeshu (Plum Wine) ・ Premium Japanese Spirits: YAMAZAKI, HIBIKI, HAKUSHU, TOKI, HAKU Vodka PHOTO NOTICE There will be professional photographers and videographers on-site. By attending, you agree that your image may appear on our social media or in event promotions. WHY YOU SHOULD COME ✔ Over 700+ people attended ✔ Huge mix of locals, Japanese community, and international guests ✔ A welcoming, inclusive, and fun space for all – solo or with friends ✔ Great music, great people, unforgettable vibes MELLIFE MOTTO “Always open. Always safe. Always fun.” We aim to create a friendly and respectful space for everyone. Harassment, pressure, or rude behavior will result in removal – no exceptions or refunds. PLEASE NOTE ・No cloakroom/lockers – travel light ・No entry for guests previously banned from our events ・Stay updated here: @japan_night_festival Join us for the most exciting Japanese night of the year in Melbourne! Let’s dance, celebrate, and make this winter one to remember 🇯🇵🇦🇺 JAPAN NIGHT FESTIVAL 5– SAKURA編 主催：MELLIFE（メルライフ） 前回のイベントでは、なんと700人以上が来場！ Japan Night Festivalが、さらにパワーアップして帰ってきます！ リアルな日本文化、音楽、お酒、そしてメルボルンのナイトライフが好きなあなたへ―― このイベントはあなたのための夜です！ 【開催日】2026年3月28日（土） 【時間】18:00～22:00 【会場】La Di Da（メルボルンCBD） 【入場時にID必須】（パスポート・運転免許証など） 【チケット情報（限定500名）】 ・$15 アーリーバード （＋Web手数料） ・$20 前売り （＋Web手数料） ※販売終了または2026年3月27日（金）23:55まで ・$30 当日券 （＋Web手数料）（在庫がある場合のみ） お支払いはオンライン限定 当日は現金のお支払いはできません 【イベントタイムスケジュール】 18:00 – 開場 18:30～18:45：旅する シンガー、桜りん、ライブパフォーマンス 19:15～： 賞品付きじゃんけん大会 （$100のMyerギフトカード、$50のAmazonギフトカード、などの豪華賞品あり！） 19:45： ローカルユニットF5ve によるダンスパフォーマンス 20:30～22:00： クラブタイム J-POP / K-POP / アニソン / 洋楽パーティーミュージック [注意喚起] 22時以降は他団体による運営となります。 それ以降のトラブル等については、当団体では責任を負いかねます。 【コスプレ・着物での来場は入場無料！】 フルコスプレ or 着物でのご来場で、なんと入場無料！ （IDの提示は必要です） 伝統スタイルでも、創造的なスタイルでも大歓迎！ 【フード＆ドリンク】 日本の屋台風フードをご用意予定（※詳細は後日公開） 本格的な日本のお酒も提供します： ・ ハイボール ・ レモンサワー ・ 梅酒 ・ プレミアム日本酒・スピリッツ（山崎・響・白州・季・白ウォッカなど） 【撮影についてのご案内】 イベント当日は、プロのカメラマン・ビデオグラファーが撮影を行います。 ご参加をもって、SNSやイベント広報用に画像・映像を使用されることに同意いただいたものとします。 【こんな方にオススメ！】 ✔ 過去700人以上が参加した大人気イベント！ ✔ 日本好き・国際交流好きが大集合！ ✔ 一人でも安心して楽しめるインクルーシブな空間 ✔ 音楽・人・雰囲気すべてが忘れられない夜に！ 【MELLIFEのモットー】 「いつでもウェルカム、いつでも安心、いつでも楽しい」 すべての方が安心して楽しめるよう、フレンドリーで敬意ある空間を提供しています。 ハラスメント・強要・失礼な行動があった場合は、即退場・返金不可です 【ご注意事項】 ・クローク・ロッカー等はありません → 荷物は少なめでお越しください ・過去に問題を起こし、出入り禁止となった方の入場はお断りします ・最新情報は Instagram → @japan_night_festival をチェック！ この冬、メルボルンで最もアツい「日本の夜」を体験しよう！ 踊って、飲んで、出会って、最高の思い出をつくろう！🇯🇵🇦🇺

**ADDRESS**: 250 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000 **TIME**: Saturdays Join us for a delightful evening where you can taste a variety of dishes that blend Eastern and Western flavors, while making new friends and expanding your social circle. Explore the language and culture of a multicultural society in Melbourne through interactive activities and conversations. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and savor the best of both worlds at our East Meets West event! 1\. Please join our Facebook Group for future events; the Link is attached here: [https://www.facebook.com/share/g/172BrZ4TKU/](https://www.facebook.com/share/g/172BrZ4TKU/) 2\. Please "Subscribe" and "Like" the group video\. [https://youtu.be/qkLR5DalbFE?si=znCIeVXE7wCPHhT0](https://youtu.be/qkLR5DalbFE?si=znCIeVXE7wCPHhT0) 3\. Please inform us in the comments if you are late\. Please update your RSVP\. Call me 0402714889 if you can't find us\. 如果迟到，请务必在评论栏里留言告知, 可以去餐馆里面找我们， 我们的桌上放一个Meetup sign。

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening evening of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will individually choose from the menu and pay for their own meal.)

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. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

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. 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."

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. 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."

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Belle's Bread Bakery and Cafe. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

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."