Book Lovers

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'The Emperor of Gladness' by Ocean Vuong The blurb: "**Ocean Vuong returns with an achingly beautiful novel about chosen family, unexpected friendship, and the stories we tell ourselves in order to survive.** One late summer evening in the post-industrial town of East Gladness, Connecticut, nineteen-year-old Hai stands on the edge of a bridge in pelting rain, ready to jump, when he hears someone shout across the river. The voice belongs to Grazina, an elderly widow succumbing to dementia, who convinces him to take another path. Bereft and out of options, he quickly becomes her caretaker. Over the course of the year, the unlikely pair develops a life-altering bond, one built on empathy, spiritual reckoning, and heartbreak, with the power to alter Hai’s relationship to himself, his family, and a community at the brink. Following the cycles of history, memory, and time, *The Emperor of Gladness* shows the profound ways in which love, labor, and loneliness form the bedrock of American life. At its heart is a brave epic about what it means to exist on the fringes of society and to reckon with the wounds that haunt our collective soul. Hallmarks of Vuong’s writing – formal innovation, syntactic dexterity, and the ability to twin grit with grace through tenderness – are on full display in this story of loss, hope, and how far we would go to possess one of life’s most fleeting mercies: a second chance." Goodreads rating: 3.93 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

Hosted by WinkMe Asia at [Nur Uyghur Restaurant](https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&&p=510e45d5bbaac7ed961c8e5030b670bdeb624b7db59fd3b953bc0640bfda0168JmltdHM9MTc3Mjc1NTIwMA&ptn=3&ver=2&hsh=4&fclid=116ae084-f2d8-6f9d-236a-f783f30d6e41&u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuYmluZy5jb20vYWxpbmsvbGluaz91cmw9aHR0cHMlM2ElMmYlMmZib29raW5ncy53b3dhcHBzLmNvbSUyZm1ha2UtYm9va2luZyUyZm51cnV5Z2h1cnJlc3RhdXJhbnQlM2ZzcmMlM2R3ZWImc291cmNlPXNlcnAtbG9jYWwmaD1mNmZrbkJPdmx0Z2xHdUolMmZsQ3F0QVlMYzVwaXolMmJmelV3WG9xdElFNmtVVSUzZCZwPWx3X21hZ3NtbHQmaWc9NjZBQjRCOEE0RDk1NDg5RjhCQTBDRDJGOUM5OTVFQTcmeXBpZD1ZTjJBODA0MjM3RTMzMjcxNDE&ntb=1) in Malvern Join us for a relaxed and engaging evening designed for singles who share a love for Asian cuisine and meaningful connections. This is not a loud party or awkward speed dating session — it’s a thoughtfully curated social night where great food and natural conversations come together. Agenda for the Evening 6:45 PM – Arrival & Welcome Mingling Guests arrive, grab a drink, and casually mingle. Our hosts will help break the ice and introduce you to others. 7:00 PM – Shared Dining Experience We’ll enjoy a curated Asian dining experience together. Sharing food makes conversations flow naturally and keeps the atmosphere warm and relaxed. 8:00 PM – Guided Connection Rounds Lightly structured rotations or small group conversations to help everyone meet more people without pressure. 9:00 PM – Open Social Time Stay, chat, exchange contacts, and continue conversations with those you connected with. ✨ What to Expect • A welcoming, friendly crowd of singles • Balanced male–female ratio (where possible) • Relaxed atmosphere — no pressure, no games • Quality conversations over great Asian food • Hosts who ensure no one feels left out • A mix of professionals and like-minded individuals Whether you’re new to dating events or simply looking to expand your circle, this evening is about connection, community, and enjoying the experience. Come hungry — for good food and good company. We will host the first event on 4th of March a Wed night, then after that it will be held on every Thu night . Cost Dinner is estimated at around $40-$50 per person (food only). Drinks are not included — guests may purchase their own drinks directly at the venue. We keep things simple and transparent for everyone .

## ✨ KISMETRIX \| True Connection [Ticked Event](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26306) ### The Valhalla \| Elegant Singles Night Hosted by **KISMETRIX \| True Connection** 📍 **Valhalla Bar (Basement, Olderfleet Building)** 477 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 📅 **Saturday, 14 March** 🕖 **7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Hosted)** (Venue open late) ### AN ELEGANT SATURDAY NIGHT FOR THOSE WHO PREFER DEPTH OVER NOISE Hidden beneath the iconic Olderfleet Building lies **Valhalla** — a Scandinavian-inspired underground bar where atmosphere, design and conversation take centre stage. This is our **Elegant Singles Night** — a refined Saturday social for those who want real conversation, good energy, and connection that unfolds naturally. No swiping. No forced rotations. No loud, chaotic party crowd. Just confident adults showing up — in real life. ### 👥 AGE GROUPS [(TICKETED)](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26306) To create a balanced, comfortable room, tickets are released across two overlapping age groups: • **30–48** • **38–60** Guests receive coloured name tags on arrival to help our hosts support thoughtful introductions early in the evening. As the night progresses, the room naturally opens into relaxed, free-flowing mingling. This structure keeps the atmosphere elegant, social and effortless — without pressure. ### 💫 ABOUT THE EVENT Tired of dating apps that go nowhere? Over speed dating that feels like an interview? So were we. KISMETRIX \| True Connection was created for singles who want something more human — real presence\, real conversation\, and genuine chemistry\. You’ll walk into a room full of people who: * Are done with endless chatting and ghosting * Want to meet face-to-face, not behind a screen * Value depth, respect and good energy * Care about how they show up — socially and emotionally Come for a drink. Stay for the conversation. Leave glad you came. ### 🎯 WHO THIS NIGHT IS FOR This event is for singles who: * Prefer substance over surface * Enjoy meaningful conversation and elegant social settings * Are emotionally mature and socially aware * Want a great Saturday night — regardless of outcomes Come solo or with friends — many do. ### 🍷 THE VIBE Expect: * A moody, intimate underground bar setting * Nordic-inspired design and refined ambience * Hosted support early, free flow later * An elegant, socially aware crowd * **Happy Hour drink specials available at the bar** Think less “dating event” — more **a Collins Street Saturday night done properly**. ### 🎟 TICKETS & INCLUSIONS Get your ticket [HERE](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26306) Your ticket includes: * Entry to the curated **KISMETRIX Elegant Singles Night** * Hosted support throughout the evening * A thoughtfully balanced social experience Drinks and small plates are available for purchase directly from Valhalla, with **Happy Hour specials** offered during the event. 🎫 Tickets are limited to maintain quality, balance and atmosphere. Early booking is strongly recommended. ### ✅ WHY PEOPLE LOVE KISMETRIX EVENTS * No apps. No swiping. Just real people * No scripts or awkward structures * Thoughtful curation without rigidity * A genuinely enjoyable night — even if you attend solo * Many guests come “just for a drink” … and end up staying all night ### 🔔 [BOOK NOW](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26306) Spaces are limited to maintain the energy and quality of the room. **Refund Policy:** Tickets are non-refundable. If you can no longer attend, you’re welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else in the same age group. ## **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways. 📧 **social@kismetrix.com.au** 🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")** 📱 Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523") & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353")** 📄 \*\*Important Notice:\*\*By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/"),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/"),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/") and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/").Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions.🤝 Collaborations: **collabs@kismetrix.com.au**

Debutante is a monthly non-competitive showcase for emerging drag performers, held at Pride of our Footscray. The show starts at 8PM. Free entry and no booking required.

Happy New Year! Apologies for the radio silence. I've been MIA for the last couple of months...life and all. But now I'm back to it. Let's start the year by trying out Hazel. Here's the group [MENU](https://hazelrestaurant.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/HAZEL-Chefs-Menu-A5-90.pdf) at $95pp. As usual, a $20 deposit will be required to secure your spot (to avoid no-shows and last minute cancellations). This will be returned to you on the night, or if you change your RSVP with at least 48hr notice. See you there! Priscila

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

Sunday arvo, $7 pints, live music, what more could you want! Rocky Ridge Brewery, which has taken over from Thunder Road Brewery, offers a bunch of boutique craft beers. So come join us for a drink or three and banter!

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!

Joins us for a walk through Burnley Gardens followed by lunch at the Bridge Hotel. Burnley Gardens are located inside at the Burnley Campus of the University of Melbourne. It has over 22 self-guided stops, you’ll discover the gardens' history, design principles and current uses, and learn about the rare plants, specific garden beds, historical events, iconic trees and modern elements of green infrastructure featured. Parking is available on Yarra Boulevard or FR Smith Drive. We meet at 11:00 am in front of the Summer House building, which is the #1 stop at self guided tour of the gardens. The Summer House building is located near Main building (Reception). Here is google map pin: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/KR6DL2hhHPYEJ11U9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KR6DL2hhHPYEJ11U9) From there we walk (or drive) to the Bridge Hotel (642 Bridge Rd, Richmond VIC 3121) for the lunch. The table will be booked for 12:30. So if you can't make it to the garden you are welcome to join us only for the lunch.

**Our March pick is *God of the Woods* by Liz Moore.** **This month’s novel is an award-winning literary mystery that blends family drama with psychological suspense. It explores women’s voices and relationships while delivering an exciting, eerie, and deeply suspenseful story. The book is 576 pages in print or 14 hours and 35 minutes on audiobook.** Early morning, August 1975: a camp counselor discovers an empty bunk. Its occupant, Barbara Van Laar, has gone missing. Barbara isn’t just any thirteen-year-old: she’s the daughter of the family that owns the summer camp and employs most of the region’s residents. And this isn’t the first time a Van Laar child has disappeared. Barbara’s older brother similarly vanished fourteen years ago, never to be found. As a panicked search begins, a thrilling drama unfolds. Chasing down the layered secrets of the Van Laar family and the blue-collar community working in its shadow, Moore’s multi-threaded story invites readers into a rich and gripping dynasty of secrets and second chances. It is Liz Moore’s most ambitious and wide-reaching novel yet.

**Our April novel is: *The Hong Kong Widow* by Kristen Loesch** **This month’s novel blends gothic atmosphere with historical fiction and chilling horror, set against the haunting backdrop of China. The book is 368 pages in print and 10 hours and 42 minutes on audiobook.** In 1950s Hong Kong, Mei is a young refugee of the Chinese Communist revolution struggling to put her past in Shanghai behind her. When she receives a shocking invitation—to take part in a competition in one of the city's most notorious haunted houses, pitting six spirit mediums against one another in a series of six séances over six nights, until a single winner emerges—she has every reason to refuse. Except that the hostess, a former Shanghainese silent film star, is none other than the wife of the man who once destroyed Mei’s entire life. It is promised the winner will receive a fortune, but there is only one prize Mei wants: revenge. Decades later, the final night of that competition has become an infamous urban legend: The police were called to the scene of a brutal massacre but found no evidence, dismissing it as a collective hallucination. Mei knows what she saw, but now someone else is convinced they know what she did. She must uncover the truth about the last night she ever spent in that house—even if the ghosts of her past are waiting for her there. . . .

Join us for a cozy evening of books and conversation. 🗓 Tuesday\, May 12 \| 6:30 p\.m\. Hilliard Branch \| 4500 Hickory Chase Way Schedule 6:00 p.m. – Book sale opens 6:30 p.m. – Author talk 7:15 p.m. – Audience Q&A 7:30 p.m. – Book signing It’s a great chance to pick up a new book, hear an author’s perspective, and share the experience with a community of readers.

This will be the first ever Book Club Meet up for this group! * We will be discussing Dating After the End of the World by Jeneva Rose (if you would like a free EPUB copy of this book to read on kindle, message me & I can send you the ebook) * ***Changed the book from Daggermouth due to it being independently published and hard to find in print**** * Feel free to attend even if you haven't started or finished the book ◡̈ ! * Small snacks will be provided. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks & drinks too! * Even if the meetup event shows full, you are welcome to come. If you can no longer attend the event, no worries, just please try to update your status on meetup for it.

Calling all founders, CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to join our special *Founder Edition* of Sip & Read meetup event. Let's sip on fine wine and discuss our first book **The 5AM Club- Own Your Morning Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma**. We will pair this book with our favorite wine at **Wine on High** and engage in thought-provoking discussions on startup businesses and entrepreneurship, and network with like-minded individuals in a cozy book club setting. Come prepared to discuss this month's book. At the end of each book club meeting, we will take next book and venue suggestions from the participants for the next meeting. Whether you are a book lover, women entrepreneur, or a content creator, this event is perfect for sharing ideas and insights with other funders and founders in the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Sign up now to reserve your spot! *Fun fact! This meetup was established in 2015 and had over 1,000 members. I had to shut down operations while attending law school, but we're back!!*

Welcome, readers! Our March read is **_The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver._** The story follows Taylor Greer, a young woman from rural Kentucky who leaves home for the West, only to find herself unexpectedly becoming the guardian of an abused Native American toddler named Turtle. In Tucson, Arizona, they form a makeshift family with a diverse group of people, including Guatemalan refugees and a single mother, exploring themes of motherhood, community, belonging, and finding hope in hardship. The story blends humor with serious issues, creating a story about finding family in unexpected places. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

This month we’ll be ready The Fifth Season by NK Jemisin. Feel free to come even if you don’t finish the bookk!