Folklore

Join me for a relaxed walk and bird watching at Albert Park Lake, an extraordinary wetland habitat that is home to nearly two hundred species of birds. Created from a lagoon and originally part of the extensive Yarra River Delta, the lake and its surrounds are a popular parkland for locals and visitors alike. Together we can enjoy conversation and make new friends as we follow the path beside the water's edge and look out for gulls and cormorants roosting on the wharves. We'll wind our way around the lake and pass Gunn Island, a tranquil sanctuary and a safe nesting environment for local and migratory birds. Further around the lake we'll see waterbirds such as stilts, swamphens and coots among the reed beds. When we reach the southern end of the lake we can stop to enjoy the magnificent views of the city skyline across the water. This is a great spot for photography. We'll return to relax and socialise together in the Coots Picnic area and enjoy a snack and a drink. You can pick up a coffee and something to eat at the nearby Sir Albert Cafe or bring your own drinks and snacks. **Agenda** I will meet you at 10am on the lakeside of the Light Rail Tram Stop No.129 Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre. We'll set off at 10.10am and follow the path beside the Melbourne Aquatic Centre and through the picnic area to the lake. From there we'll stroll past the wharves and Gunn Island, follow the long stretch of reed beds and walk to the southernmost point of the lake to take in the stunning views of the city skyline. We'll then make our way back to the Coots Picnic area to enjoy a snack and a drink together. This is an easy walk on flat pathways and the distance will be about 5.5km all up. It will take us around 1hr 45mins at a leisurely pace with stops along the way to enjoy and photograph the birdlife. **Location** Albert Park Lake is located in the suburb of Albert Park, 3km from the Melbourne CBD. The No.96 tram/light rail runs from the Melbourne CBD down past Albert Park Lake. There is free street parking available on Canterbury Road which runs beside the tram/light rail. Parking Fees apply to all car parks within Albert Park. When you RSVP, please click Attend on the event page and I will be in touch via Direct Messages about the details. I will also be available in the Event Comments on the day.

**🌞 Delectable Summer Social Stroll: Full Yarra Bend Circuit About 12 km Moderate to Difficult** **Easter Monday 6 April- 12 PM..Arrive at 11.45 AM please** Join us for a long, lazy, laughter‑filled Autumn social stroll tracing the full Yarra Bend circuit — a gorgeous loop of river bends, bushland, boardwalks, 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. This has a couple of difficult sections where you may need to use your hands. ***+++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. Bonus or not, we'll be going through the section where the many thousands of flying foxes roost during the day. We will also make a diversion to the golf course cafe which is much more manageable to get a snack. 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 autumn sparkle in their step. 🕙 **Timing** The Convent Bakery is rumoured to have ice‑cold smoothies worth writing home about, and we’ll swing by at the end for anyone who wants a refreshing treat. - Meet at 11:45 a.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 12:00 p.m. sharp. Prior to the heat of the day**. Arrive by 11.45 a.m. - 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 the golf course cafe for coffee, cold drinks, or a light bite. Bring a little cash or card if you’d like to indulge. Hopefully it's open, much better than stopping at Studley Park boathouse. **🚶 Route Highlights** - The leafy bends of the Yarra - Dights Falls lookout - Riverbank boardwalks and shaded bushland 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. **🌿 What to Bring** - Comfortable walking shoes - Suitable clothes for a lengthy walk - Water 2 litres - Sunscreen and a hat - A light snack if you like - Curiosity, good humour, and your best summer social energy **⚠️ Group Rules and Event Etiquette ⚠️** These are basic, commonsense standards that keep events safe, smooth, and enjoyable for everyone. **Fitness Requirements**: This should be a moderate to difficult walk for people with average fitness. There are ssmall ections requiring easy scrambles requiring the use of your hands. 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 for a walk and lunch in St Kilda. Meeting 10:30am, on corner of Fitzroy St and Nepean HWY. Making our way to Albert Park Lake at 10:45am. Giving ourselves 1 hour for the walk, to take our time, take in the fresh air and to connect! Throughout event, I'll mix and move you around so we can all connect with each other. Walking also helps our nervous system. Then heading to a local cafe or pub (most likely the Prince Hotel). See comments on day for exact location. Dogs welcomed. Looking like a lovely day.

WEATHER DEPENDANT Just a random coffee meetup outside kerekere cafe in Fitzroy gardens. Come and grab a coffee and/or snack. We usually meet and stand outside the cafe on the left under/near the big tree. Just a friendly way to meet others that might be by themselves or new in Melbourne. Just a very casual and laid back vibe. You may come and go as you please Please be respectful to each other and be careful about sharing personal information. This is NOT a dating meetup, just friends. Disclaimer: the organizers are not responsible for any loss of property or injury incurred at a meetup. We are volunteers who simply provide a platform to make friends. Please be responsible for your belongings and safety. Also these outdoor meetups are weather dependent too. We all know how unpredictable Melbourne can be Looking forward to meeting you and probably seeing some old faces too.

Calling all \*\*female-identifying, non-binary and gender diverse \*\* filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts! Join us at **5pm** **Monday Apr 6 (the first Monday of every month)** in the Emporium food court (located behind Grill’d Burger Restaurant) for a chance to build relationships in the film community. **From 7pm onwards, we will continue the evening with drinks and/or a meal at The Lions Hotel - Melbourne Central.** This event is an expansion of the very successful **Movie Mutuals Wednesday Night Networking group** which has grown remarkably, with a weekly turnout of over 50 participants, blending newcomers with regulars to create a vibrant, diverse community. Whether you’re a writer, actor, animator, or independent filmmaker, come share your experiences, discuss current projects, or chat about favourite films. This event fosters connections among like-minded women, non-binary and gender diverse people, encourages friendships, and opens doors for collaboration. **RSVP** to help us gauge attendance. You will become part of a growing network of film professionals and enthusiasts. **What to Expect:** *There’s no set theme, workshop, or speaker. It’s a relaxed gathering where filmmakers, actors, and creatives can connect, discuss projects, share needs, and learn from each other. Beyond this networking event, we also host weekly Wednesday night meetups, exclusive events such as table reads, cinematography workshops with Panasonic, member screenings, and more.* \*Note: Our community emphasizes collaboration, friendship, and goodwill rather than promotional activities. If you wish to promote a workshop, course, screening, or similar event, please contact the organizers first. Promotional privileges are generally reserved for trusted, long-standing members.

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your lamp, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** Join us for a hands-on workshop where families can learn the art of creating beautiful Turkish lamps together. This unique and engaging class will guide parents and kids through crafting intricate and colorful lamps. No prior experience is required, as our expert instructors will provide step-by-step instructions on design, assembly, and decorating techniques. This workshop is perfect for families and friends to bond, unleash their creativity, and take home a stunning handmade craft that can brighten any room. Come discover Turkish lamp-making's magic with your little ones in a fun and supportive environment. In this 2.5-hour workshop, you'll lose track of time and end up with a beautiful lamp to take home!

For those who aren't coming to the Discworld convention in Sydney, we will also be attending DandyCon, so come say hi if you're free. From the website: Get ready for a vibrant, nerdy day out at Dandy‑Con 2026 on Saturday 11 April, 11am–4pm. Back bigger than ever across Dandenong Library, Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre and the Drum Theatre, this free festival is bursting with hands‑on fun, colour and community energy. Explore the stallholder exhibition where you can buy your favourite merch and fanart from fandoms like Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen and more. Meet creators, play games, craft your own merch, snap a photo‑booth moment and dive into tabletop adventures, roving characters and a lively cosplay competition. A perfect day out for fans of all ages.[https://libraries.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/dandycon](https://libraries.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/dandycon "https://libraries.greaterdandenong.vic.gov.au/dandycon") [https://www.facebook.com/events/1445901587257994/?active_tab=discussion](https://www.facebook.com/events/1445901587257994/?active_tab=discussion "https://www.facebook.com/events/1445901587257994/?active_tab=discussion") When: Saturday, April 11th, 11 am–4 pm Where: Dandenong Library, Walker Street Gallery and Arts Centre, and the Drum Theatre

Join us for a relaxed and thought-provoking meetup centered on the work of Michelangelo Antonioni, with a special focus on Red Desert and its enduring influence. We’ll explore how Antonioni uses landscape, color, and silence to express alienation and emotional disconnection, making Red Desert a landmark in modern cinema. From its striking visual design to its unconventional storytelling, we’ll unpack what makes his style so distinctive—and why it still resonates today. We’ll also bring The Passenger into the conversation, considering how its themes of identity, movement, and detachment echo or evolve Antonioni’s vision. Please note: this is a discussion-based meetup—we do not screen films during the event. Participants are encouraged to watch the films beforehand so we can dive straight into conversation, analysis, and shared perspectives. Whether you’re already a fan of Antonioni or just discovering his work, this is a space to think deeply, exchange ideas, and connect with others who appreciate cinema as an art form.

**Event posted on our website too so number of people responding here does not show actual numbers attending.** Let’s have fun exploring the worlds of angels & nature spirits. You might find you garden suddenly blooming or your pockets full of gold! These evenings are open to anyone that wishes to come along; and at which we will be exploring, in a hands-on fashion (in other words, you get to do some of the conjuration – if you wish – or you can just watch) the invocation and evocation of angels, planetary spirits, elementals, daemons, etc. You don’t need to wear magical robes or bring magical tools or weapons but are welcome to do so if you wish. ***Warning for those with sensitive noses. We will be burning incense.*** **Cost:** $20 **When:** Tuesday 7th Aptil - arrive between 6.30 & 7pm if you can. If you're running late, come anyway. We go to at least 9pm. **Where:** 130 Boronia Road, Vermont, Melbourne, 3133 **Contact:** David 03 9873 3736 or [esoteric666@optusnet.com.au](mailto:esoteric666@optusnet.com.au) ***For more details click this link:*** https://esotericbookshop.org/invocation-evocation-magic-workshop/ ***How to find us click this link:*** [https://esotericbookshop.org/contact-us/](https://esotericbookshop.org/contact-us/) For more background information see our website blog on[ ](https://esotericbookshop.org/high-ritual-ceremonial-magick/)***[ceremonial magic](https://esotericbookshop.org/high-ritual-ceremonial-magick/)***

**Registration required at below link:** **Tickets: $5** https://events.humanitix.com/april-2026-oot-and-aboot-x-euphoria-social-lgbtqia-afternoon-wellbeing-walk Join Oot & Aboot in collaboration with Euphoria Social for a relaxed LGBTQIA+ Afternoon wellbeing walk at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. This is not a fitness session. This is not a race. This walk is designed to create space for slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and building safe community. At the start of the walk, you’ll have the option to select a simple intention word to carry with you throughout the afternoon. We’ll move at a gentle, inclusive pace through the gardens, pausing occasionally to notice elements of the natural environment — such as scent, sound and scenery — and reflect on how time in green spaces supports mental wellbeing. No one is left behind. You’re welcome to talk, walk quietly, or simply be present. ## Post-Walk Community Coffee (Optional) The event concludes with a coffee at The Observatory for those who wish to continue connecting. This is completely optional. ## Meeting Point We will meet outside The Visitor Centre of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. Please arrive by 2:50 pm for an 3:00 pm sharp start. ## Agenda * 2:50 pm - 3:00 pm ### Arrival & Welcome * 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm ### Gentle Guided Walk Short Nature Pause * 3:45 pm - 4:30 pm ### Optional Community Coffee The Observatory Cafe in front of the Visitor Centre. ## Know Before You Go 1\. Who is this walk for? This walk is for LGBTQIA+ adults seeking connection, gentle movement and time in nature. All fitness levels are welcome, provided you are comfortable walking 4-5 km at a relaxed pace. 2\. How far will we walk? Approximately 4–5 km on mostly flat, accessible paths, with some sections that may be slightly hilly. 3\. What should I bring? Please bring: * A bottle of water * Hat * Sunscreen * Comfortable walking shoes Staying hydrated is essential, especially in warmer months. 4\. What should I wear? Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Enclosed walking shoes recommended. 5\. What happens if the weather is bad? The event will be cancelled if severe weather is forecast. Participants will be notified at least 24 hours prior. 6\. Is this a therapy session? No. This is a peer-led wellbeing walk focused on community and nature connection. It is not a therapy or clinical service. 7\. Can I get a refund? Tickets are non-refundable. You may transfer your ticket to a future event with at least 24 hours’ notice. 8\. Can I ask for a wheelchair? Please let us know at least 48 hours in advance so we can book with the Visitor Centre, as availability is limited. ## About the Collaboration Oot & Aboot is a volunteer-run registered LGBTQIA+ charity creating inclusive outdoor and nature-based experiences that support mental wellbeing. Euphoria Social, a grassroots not-for-profit championing mental health, inclusion, and belonging for LGBTQIAPN+ communities across Victoria. Together, we’re creating safe spaces to move, breathe and belong.

With daylight saving time over, we're back to a 10 am start. Meet in the car park right at the end of Breen Drive at Dendy Park past the tennis courts. We’ll walk around Dendy Park, some do 1 lap, others 2. As the Dendy cafe is currently closed, we'll head to Rustica on Hampton st. for a coffee & chat Any concerns, don't hesitate to get in touch on 0409 219 524 - Gillian

The topic for April is "Water" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

We’ll be having a game night! Bring a game, snack, drink or just yourself!