Connection

Visitors and newcomers are very welcome, please see https://hackmelbourne.com/newcomer-faq/ for more details. COVIDSafe restrictions are also in place, please see https://hackmelbourne.com/covid-19-restrictions/ for the latest. Short walk from Glenferrie train station. Car parking at Hawthorn town hall. Bring a laptop and a project you are working on. There is also a number of group projects that you are welcome to join in. We have starter kits for Arduino, a couple of 3D printers, various tools and equipment available for use. Typically our sessions run from 6:45pm till later in the evening (depending on our members' availability to close) but if you're new please come early.

We are a multi-disciplinary group of PhDs and academic staff who write together regularly and help one another to achieve our writing goals through supportive community, focus and a structure that works. We welcome anyone who wants to get some writing done in a collegial, supportive, encouraging environment. You don’t have to be from University of Melbourne (you don’t have to be from university at all!). We use the Pomodoro method, which means we write in timed intervals of silence, then chat and catch up for 5 mins and repeat the cycle. Arrive when you like, leave when you like. The goal is to keep our writing projects progressing and reduce the isolation that can be part of the academic and/or writing life. **Session Outline:** Welcome: 9.00-9.05 (5 mins) Pomodoro 1: 9.05-9.30 (25 mins). Break: 9.30-9.35 (5 mins) Pomodoro 2: 9.35-10.00 (25 mins) Break: 10.00-10.05 (25 mins) Pomodoro 3: 10.05-10.55 (50 mins) Break: 10.55-11.05 (10 mins) Pomodoro 4: 11.05-11.30 (25 mins) **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: There is free public wifi available at the Melbourne Connect Superfloor (speak to the concierge for details). University of Melbourne staff and students can connect to the university wifi; staff and students from other universities can join Eduroam using their home institution's log in credentials. Travel / Parking info: Public bike parking along Swanston and Grattan Streets. Tram routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 16. 16, 64, 67, 72 along Swanston Street (Stop 1) and 19 along Royal Parade (Stop 10). The nearest train station is Parkville Metro Station. Bus routes include 200, 207, 250, 251, 401, 402, 403, 505, 546. There is no public parking available at Melbourne Connect, however the area is well serviced by nearby public carparks, including Cardigan House Parking at 96 Grattan Street and the University of Melbourne Eastern Precinct Car Park at 375 Grattan Street. A taxi rank is located on Grattan Street.

**Welcome to 'GENESIS' - The Generative AI Filmmaking Networking Event!** ***THIS MAY BE A LIMITED EVENT - PLEASE MAKE SURE TO RSVP.*** This group is for individuals interested in exploring the intersection of generative AI technology and movie making. Whether you're a filmmaker eager to discuss movie production, a technician looking to collaborate, or simply wishing to learn more and discuss AI in film, this group is for you! Join us at the Emporium food court (located behind Grill’d Burger Restaurant in the CBD, not near Melbourne Station) to discuss AI technologies, workflows, productions, AI ethics, government responsibility and more. After 7pm, we continue the evening with Happy Hour drinks at a nearby bar and a chance to grab dinner together. Feel free to bring friends interested in AI filmmaking; it’s a great way to introduce new faces to our expanding network. RSVP to help us gauge attendance and become part of a growing network of film professionals and enthusiasts. Though the event begins in the afternoon, the relationships you build here can last well into the night and beyond. At 7 PM, we move to The Carlton Club, a five-minute walk away, where we continue networking in a more formal rooftop setting over drinks and food. This change of venue offers an ideal environment to keep conversations flowing. We want to foster a supportive network for creativity, film and television production, and collaboration between the world of cinema and AI. Connect with like-minded individuals and explore the exciting world of generative AI filmmaking together at GENESIS.

Hello friends, This month we will (finally!) be an entirely standalone community event, not for profit and volunteer run. We have booked a large event space in the Multicultural Hub across from Vic Market. Pizza and beverages will be graciously funded this month by Dragos, but we would really love to see other food and beverage sponsors in the future. **We can also really use additional volunteers to watch the door, help carry in food and drinks, or help with set up or clean up. Please send us a message if you're able to help.** This event will survive if people are involved and want to make it survive! Cheers, Lesley **Talk 1: A practical methodology to secure critical infrastructure** OT Cybersecurity is current in a “perfect storm scenario”. This is due to: ● Increased OT automation ● Increased regulation ● OT cyber maturity lags IT cyber maturity ● OT cyber risk impacts safety and production While many large organisations are well-resourced with dedicated teams, smaller organisations who aren’t able to appoint a dedicated OT Cybersecurity leader often struggle to deliver an effective OT Cybersecurity uplift program. This talk outlines why practical, lightweight approaches to complicated scenarios suit most critical infrastructure organisations and how such an approach would work in practice. **Speaker:** Leon Poggioli is the founder of NetSeg, an advisory organisation focused on consulting around OT Cybersecurity Strategy and Program Development. He founded NetSeg after recognising that many organisations with OT Cybersecurity obligations don’t have the necessary knowledge and experience to drive a program which requires different capabilities and stakeholders than IT Cybersecurity programs require. OT Cybersecurity is in a “perfect storm” - with increased OT automation and connectivity increasing the attack surface, increased regulations, not to mention the fact that any organisation with an OT network likely relies on that network to conduct their core business! Before founding NetSeg, Leon was the Australia New Zealand Country Manager for Claroty, one of the Gartner leaders for CPS (Cyberphysical Systems) Protection Platforms, and worked with a wide range of Australian and New Zealand organisations to drive their programs using Claroty’s technology. Leon also has a YouTube channel @NetSeg_IO where he shares short-form videos on a range of OT Cybersecurity topics. He has also been featured several times on Australian television and talkback radio. **Talk 2: Managing a Crisis in Critical Infrastructure -** **Incident Command System** Critical infrastructure is increasingly exposed to cyber-physical threats impacting essential services like energy, water, and transportation. This session introduces ICS4ICS, a proven incident response framework adapted for Industrial Control Systems (ICS) and Operational Technology (OT). It enables IT, OT, and cybersecurity teams to collaborate with clear roles, shared language, and coordinated response during high-impact incidents. Attendees will gain practical insights into managing cyber incidents that can escalate into physical disruptions, improving resilience and response effectiveness. Designed for cyber, natural, and accidental events, ICS4ICS supports cross-sector and public-private coordination. **Speakers:** Sanam Makadia • Cyber Security Architect and Advisor • Thought leader and advisor with more than 2 decades of experience in design, consulting, architecture, Risk and Governance • Interest in topics such as Cyber strategy, GRC, operational technology/industrial control systems (OT/ICS) and robotics & artificial intelligence (AI) Peter Lake • Cybersecurity Strategy Lead and CTF coach • Passionate about capacity building for neurodivergent young people, coaching, and building Cybersecurity career pathways. • Keen interest in critical infrastructure, space cyber awareness, incident response and management.

A new venue for another amazing dining experience, shared with great company. Nothing beats a popular Hot Pot (Malatang) after a long day in weather like this. Looking forward to meeting you all soon. Address: David's Master Pot 大味麻辣烫 [1408/462 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000](https://maps.google.com/maps?vet=10CAAQoqAOahcKEwjg8c7hqNuUAxUAAAAAHQAAAAAQCA..i&rlz=1C5CHFA_enAU1053AU1053&pvq=Cg0vZy8xMWZrMXJkYjY4IhQKDkRhdmlkJ3MgSG90cG90EAIYAw&lqi=Cg5EYXZpZCdzIEhvdHBvdCIDiAEBSMjR2JvErYCACFoWEAAQARgAIg5kYXZpZCdzIGhvdHBvdJIBEmhvdF9wb3RfcmVzdGF1cmFudJoBRENpOURRVWxSUVVOdlpFTm9kSGxqUmpsdlQycENNMUZ0VFhSU2JIQllXREJ2ZDJSVVRYbGhWRXBvWWxkNFZFMVlZeEFC-gEECAAQNg&fvr=1&cs=1&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=au&sa=X&ftid=0x6ad65d5f66a89133:0xa4f034d78471cb2a) https://davidsmasterpot.com.au/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=google_business_profile

Let’s catch up over coffee and food and play with the Art of Conversation cards! For those new to the Art of Conversation cards, they serve as an invitation to more in depth and meaningful conversation. Often going deeper than small talk, but how deep you want to go is up to you. An example of some questions you’ll find on the cards includes: ⭐️ Who is a person from your past that taught you something you still use today? ⭐️ What is a belief you held five years ago that you disagree with now? ⭐️ You can go to the past or the future, which one would you choose and why? I like to keep the group small (about six people) to allow for genuine connection to emerge. See you there!

Clear skies + easygoing vibes 🌞 Vidula (founder of ***Connect Through Play***) will be guiding an afternoon of drama-inspired, interactive games designed to help you meet new people in a fun, low-pressure way. Think movement, laughter, structured group activities - just show up, play, and connect. A great chance to meet new people and make friends. Meeting point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3oaqAs5gAoz5EKV6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3oaqAs5gAoz5EKV6) Cost: $4 (covers meetup costs) Payment details: Account name - Social Threads BSB - 063106 Account number - 10989323 **Payment confirms your spot.**

✨ Melbourne x Adelaide friendship crossover incoming ✨ We’re teaming up with an Adelaide social group (Be Social Adelaide) who are visiting Melbourne for a special night of fun connection games, laughs, and meeting genuinely good people. No awkward small talk. No standing around pretending to check your phone. Just fun activities designed to make conversations happen naturally. If you've ever thought: "I wish making friends as an adult was easier..." this is for you. Expect: 🤝 Fun connection games 😄 Chill, low-pressure vibes 🌏 Meet both Melbourne and Adelaide legends ✨ Potential new friendships (or at the very least, a really wholesome time) 😋A few nibbles We’ve booked a private space just for us, so numbers are limited. 📍 Boyd Community Hub - Assembly Hall 💲 $5 (covers venue + meetup costs + snacks) Payment details: Account name: Social Threads BSB: 063106 Account number: 10989323 **Payment confirms your spot.** Questions or can’t find the group on the day? Call Arjun: 0448 474 277 📞 Come solo, bring a friend, or take a tiny leap outside your comfort zone. Some of the best friendships start that way!

Welcome! Last month, we trialled Dymocks Cafe for our venue and people loved it. So we're going to meet there this month too. **HOW TO FIND US** When you enter 234 Collins, go down the escalator to the basement where Dymocks is (you can't miss it, there's books and people everywhere), turn right and you'll see the cafe next to the cashier. Come up the stairs and join us. **ITINERARY** 11am: Meet at Dymocks Cafe (upstairs) inside Dymocks Bookstore, 234 Collins St. Choose your seat. Order a drink to support the cafe. (They have a decent range of sweet and savoury snacks.) Enjoy your book. 12.15pm: Let's chat about what we read, what we loved, and why. 1pm: End of event. [OPTIONAL EXTRA] For those who are not too tired, we can go for lunch together after the event. **COST:** There is an organizer fee of $5 for this event. You can bring cash on the day or PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low). **GETTING THERE:** The closest train stations are Town Hall (4 min) and Flinders St (6 min).

Join me to explore the stunning '1000 Steps' in the Dandenong Ranges, the first section of the Kokoda Track Memorial Walk. For those who would like to, we can catch the train together from Southern Cross to Upper Fern Tree Gully, a chance to chat, connect, make new friends before we begin our walk. The track starts at the Fern Tree Gully picnic grounds, the staircase winds up a steep hill along a creek through rainforest, before emerging into a clearing where we can enjoy beautiful views of Melbourne through the trees. We will complete the loop by taking the Lyrebird Track back to the picnic grounds, and will stop in at the 1000 Steps Cafe for a coffee or something to eat. The Dandenong's is home to beautiful flora and fauna, including giant Mountain Ash trees, Rainbow Lorikeets and Lyrebirds. The path has steep sections on both the staircase and down Lyrebird Track, and is described as moderate to challenging and suitable for reasonably fit people. The track is **3kms** and takes around **1.5 hrs** to complete. The staircase is one way, however there are many places along the track to stop and rest. We will walk slowly, and have a rest at the clearing before heading back down. For anyone who would like to join but is not keen on the stairs, there are walking tracks to explore that run along the creek, from the Ferntree Gully Picnic Ground, with many beautiful spots to sit and relax and enjoy the environment. **Agenda:** I will meet you at **Southern Cross Station at 10.20am** at the Water Tower Clock We will catch the **10.35am Belgrave train** to **Upper Fern Tree Gully** Anyone driving can meet us at the Memorial Mates Statue, at **12pm** We will walk the 1000 Steps, and reach the cafe around 2pm After a coffee or something to eat we can explore the tracks at the foot of the hill, And then catch the **3.30pm** Belgrave train back, reaching Flinders St Station at **4.30pm.** We will keep to the times in the schedule as public transport runs to a reduced timetable on weekends. When you RSVP please click attend on the event page, and I will be in touch about the details, I will also be available in the Event Comments on the day and add any updates there about weather conditions if needed.

🎾 **KISMETRIX \| True ConnectionFriday Morning Pickleball Social \| Play\, Move & Meet** Hosted by KISMETRIX \| True Connection 📍 PicklePlay Dingley Village: 352 Boundary Road, Dingley Village, VIC 3172 📅 Every Friday — starting Friday, 8 May 2026 🕙 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (Hosted) ### A RELAXED MORNING TO PLAY, CONNECT & MEET NEW PEOPLE Some of the best conversations don't start with a question… They start with a game. Join us every Friday morning for a casual, social pickleball session — where movement, laughter, and connection come naturally. No pressure. No awkward setups. Just real people, shared moments, and an easy way to start your Friday. ### 🎾 WHAT TO EXPECT * Casual pickleball games in a friendly, social setting * Rotating play so you naturally meet different people throughout the morning * All skill levels welcome — beginners absolutely included * A relaxed, low-pressure vibe (rallies over scores) * Paddles available if you don't have your own * Limited spots to keep the experience social and enjoyable Come solo or bring a friend — most people attend on their own. ### 💛 WHO THIS IS FOR * Adult singles who enjoy staying active and meeting new people * Those who prefer a relaxed, social environment over structured formats * Beginners curious about pickleball * People open to connection — whether friendship, community, or something more * Those who value genuine, in-person connection over apps This is an inclusive, open event for all adult singles — no age segmentation, no categories. Just everyone in the room, playing together. ### ✨ THE KISMETRIX EXPERIENCE This is not a typical singles event. It's not speed dating, and it's not about pressure or performance. At Kismetrix, we create spaces where connection feels natural — through shared experiences, movement, and presence. At Kismetrix, we create spaces where connection feels natural — through shared experiences, movement, and presence. * No swiping * No forced interactions * No awkward games * Just real people, in real life ### 🔁 A WEEKLY RHYTHM This is a recurring Friday morning series. You're welcome to come once, occasionally, or make it part of your week. Familiar faces, easier conversations, and a low-key community that builds naturally over time — no commitment required. ### 📋 WHAT TO BRING * Comfortable clothes you can move in * Clean indoor court shoes * A water bottle * A relaxed, open mindset Paddles are available to borrow if you're new or travelling light. ### 💌 AFTER THE EVENT You'll have the option to stay connected through our "**Continue the Conversation**" form — whether for friendship or something more. ### 🔗 ABOUT KISMETRIX \| TRUE CONNECTION Kismetrix is a Melbourne-based social experience designed to bring people together in real life. No swiping. No endless texting. Just real people, real conversations, and genuine connection. ### 🔔 IMPORTANT NOTES * This is a social connection experience — outcomes are never guaranteed * Respect, boundaries, and consent are essential to maintaining a safe and welcoming space * Tickets are non-refundable but may be transferable * Please arrive a few minutes early so we can start on time **Hosted by** KISMETRIX \| True Connection 📧 [social@kismetrix.com.au]() 🌐 [www.kismetrix.com.au]() Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix]()_ By attending this event\, you acknowledge and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection's Terms & Conditions\, Privacy Policy\, Disclaimer\, and Code of Conduct\.

Come for a coffee or lunch and settle in for a meaningful conversation on "Oneness", exploring the oneness of humanity. We start our exploration using short selections from the Bahá’í teachings and other inspirational sources. The aim is to uplift, inspire and motivate; the conversation will benefit from all participants’ viewpoints. Community members of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs are invited to contribute to elevated conversations, inquiry, consultation and learning. As we grow together and learn from one another we hope to build new connections, bridges of unity and respect for all humanity.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

CONNECTED – Grove City A casual, people-first networking gathering. CONNECTED – Grove City is a casual, people-first networking gathering. Join us for a relaxed, low-pressure space to meet new people, build real relationships, and have meaningful conversations — no sales pitches required. From 7:30–8:30 AM every 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Grove City Business Center. Coffee & baked goods available for purchase at Pick ’Em Up Joe's. Free street & public lot parking behind the building. Free to attend & open to all!

Topic to be announced. **THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/ **DIRECTIONS** Franklin University Fisher Hall 300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8 Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map. NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com

Let’s meet and share discussion of the James Baldwin short story collection, Going to Meet The Man.