Fundraising Events

Care to organize something? Step up as event organizer. Please RSVP yes here and you will be contacted via meetup/

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → GRAMPIANS**🏙️ + **CHRISTMAS DINNER** * 📅 **THU-FRI 25-26 DEC, 2-DAY TRIP ☀️** * ✨**Nature, Peaks & New Stories**✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Grampians Getaway — Nature, Peaks & Stories** 🌄 - **CHRISTMAS** Join us and step into the magic of the **Grampians** — where rugged mountain ranges rise above peaceful valleys, waterfalls tumble into fern-filled gullies, and every lookout whispers a story. Across two unforgettable days, we’ll **hike** scenic forest trails, **kayak** across a tranquil lake, uncover ancient Aboriginal **rock art**, and savour **wine** in a beautiful valley setting. Add Christmas **BBQ**, **1-night** Cosy shared **accommodation**, **Meditation** & grounding and plenty of laughter — and you’ve got a journey stitched with memories \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🎒 **All-Inclusive for $319** ✅ Round-trip transport in a comfortable **Mercedes minivan** 🚐 ✅ Guided **10 km hike** with gear 🥾 ✅ **Kayaking** on a stunning lake (gear provided) 🛶 ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee & tea** ☕ ✅ Visit to breathtaking **lookouts & waterfalls** 🌄 ✅ **1-night** Cosy shared **accommodation** ✨ ✅ **Winery visit** 🍷 ✅ Exploration of **Aboriginal rock art** ✅ Christmas **BBQ** ✅ **Meditation** & grounding \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🕒 **2-Day Itinerary Highlights** **Day 1** 🌅 07:30 — Meet at St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street 🍉 08:30 — Refreshment **stop** ☕ 09:30 — Welcome morning **tea & snacks** (included) 🥾 09:45 — Guided 10 km forest+mountain easy **hike** (190m elevation) 🍽️ 13:30 — **Picnic** & lunch (BYO) with tea & snacks (provided, ulimited) 🌄 14:30 — Explore **Venus Baths** & scenic **peaks** 🌊 15:30 — Breathtaking **lookout** visit 🦘 16:30 — Spot native **wildlife** 🚐 17:30 — **Scenic drive** through the ranges 🍝 18:00 — Hotel check-in & relaxation - shared **accommodation** 🏨 20:00 — Christmas **BBQ** - **Group dinner** ✨ 21:00 — **Meditation** under the stars \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Day 2** 🍳 08:00 — Hotel check-out & **breakfast** 🛶 09:30 — **Kayaking** on a beautiful lake (beginner friendly!) 🥪 12:30 — Lunch break + **Picnic** ✨ 13:30 — **Meditation** & grounding 🌅 14:30 — Visit Aboriginal **rock art** sites 🍷 15:30 — **Winery** & **scenic** valley views ☕ 17:30 — Stop for refreshments 🏙️ 19:00 — Return to **Melbourne**, filled with memories 📍 Drop-off: Hamer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$319 transfer** **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** Gra 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now to avoid missing out!** 🎒 S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **Lunch for day 1+2** ✔️ Christmas dinner share plate ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***🌟 Days Include :*** 🥾 A 10 km guided forest **hike** (190 m elevation gain) 🍉 Snacks, coffee/tea, soft drinks 🌄 Visits to stunning **lookouts** 🌺 **Winery** — scenery and beauty combined 🚐 Scenic road trip through ✨ **Meditation** & grounding 😊 Christmas **BBQ** 🛶 **Kayaking** on a beautiful lake ✨ Cosy shared **accommodation** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Credited or refunded only if the event is canceled/moved. Non-refundable in any other cases \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*\*\*Two Days. Endless Views. Lasting Joy**. **\*\*\*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

This Meetup is ideal for people who want to have a game mid-week. This Meetup is also preceded by Tennis Xpress (7pm) which is a beginner coaching course for adults. Glen our tennis leader on the night is the friendliest man and will make all players feel welcome.

Event details: Christmas Eve Dinner at 6 pm: Nan Yang Express南洋茶室, Shop 1/ 128 Little Bourke Street, Chinatown, Carols by Candlelight at 8 pm烛光圣诞音乐会: Sidney Myer Music Bowl Contact June at 0402714889 This Christmas Eve, Sidney Myer Music Bowl will light up for another magical evening of Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight. A cherished tradition, this joyous event will feature live performances from an incredible line-up of ARIA-winning artists, choirs, musical theatre casts, comedians, children’s entertainers and more. All proceeds support kids who are blind or have low vision by providing vital funding for Vision Australia’s specialist children's services. Don’t miss your chance to support a great cause and share the magic in person as Australia’s favourite performers bring the joy and wonder of the season to life.

Join us for Melbournes biggest and only XMAS EVE club party USE MEETUP50 for 50% off TICKETS HERE https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1967437795408?aff=oddtdtcreator

**Get ready to taste and make new friends in this sommelier-led event where you can learn about and taste 7 old wines - includes $40 dining credit making your tasting just $5!** THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT: [GET YOUR TICKET HERE](https://oldandrare.eventbrite.com.au) **Your wine night just got a whole lot finer!** \- Includes $40 dining credit \- Small group setting \- Sommelier run Join us for **Old & Rare Wines Tastings** and get ready to make some new friends. Led by qualified Sommelier Antony Anderson (WSET3, WSET4 pending), this evening involves a free tasting of seven back-vintage (old) wines and some wine education, followed by your choice of dinner items and additional drinks from our extensive menus. We'll be gathering at **Life's Too Short Bar**, located in the vibrant **Tribeca Arcade** on **Victoria Parade**, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia, where you can meet like-minded wine lovers and discuss all things wine, food, and common connections and interests. **Your ticket includes a $40 dining credit** towards food and drinks purchased on the evening, making your ticket (almost) free. Reserve your spot now - Then bring your appetite and sense of humour, and join us for a night of conversation, cuisine and, of course, wine! **GETTING THERE:** We recommend you use public transport or rideshare. We are on the 12/109 tram line (stop 16, Wellington St), several Bus Routes (302, 303, 304, 305, 309, 318, 350, 905, 906, 907, 908) or a 5-10 minute walk from Jolimont and North Richmond train stations. If you decide to drive and/or have a designated driver, 2-hour paid parking is available around Powlett Reserve, Darling Square, and the Fitzroy Gardens. Extended paid parking is available at Care Park at 162 Albert Street, East Melbourne or the Epworth Freemasons Car Park in Gotch Lane off Grey Street. **UNABLE TO ATTEND?** Cancellations and Refunds are generally not possible. However, for sudden illness, COVID, or other special circumstances, we may agree to reschedule your session to another night or provide a gift certificate for part or all of your ticket price. Please SMS your request to 0466 045 473\*\*.\*\* **TERMS AND CONDITIONS:** * See the ticket link for further conditions * This is a preferred pre-booked event, but walk-ins may be possible. * RSVPs on Meetup do not constitute a booking. * Minimum spend for F&B following the event is $40 * Minimum Event Sales 2. If the minimum number of seats is not sold, the event may be rescheduled later or cancelled and tickets refunded. * If you have booked a ticket and an event is amended, we will contact you before the event to advise and make new arrangements. * Please note: By Public Health Directives, all attendees must be fully COVID-vaccinated, and proof of vaccination may be required. #meetingpeople #makingfriends #winetasting #blindtasting #winegames #singles #lonely #winelovers #winebuffs #winophiles #melbournewine #winemelbourne #melbournewinetasting #socialwines #makenewfriends #wine #lovers #tasting #event #meetup

**🍻 The Entrepreneur Club – We're meeting for an end of year picnic!** Join us for a monthly gathering of entrepreneurs, builders, creatives, and self-starters who believe business is more than just work, it’s a personal growth journey. Whether you're scaling something or just starting out, this is a space to meet others who think like you do. **💬 What to Expect** ✅ Real convos with people building something ✅ A place to bounce ideas, swap challenges, and share wins ✅ Opportunities to give value and get it in return ✅ Chill vibes, no pitches, just smart people in good company You don’t need a title or a polished pitch, just curiosity and the willingness to connect. **🗓 Format** **2:00pm** – Arrive, ***bring a snack to share***, join a convo **4:00pm** – We wrap, or roll on elsewhere 📍 **Alexandra Gardens** We'll be where the map pin is located. Half way between the Skate Park and the Melbourne University Boat Club, in the gardens. **🎯 This is for you if** * You want more entrepreneurial people in your life * You’re building something, or want to be * You care about growth, not just small talk Bring a question. Bring a challenge. Bring your curiosity. Let’s make it count.

FREE entry if you ATTEND WITH A FRIEND! Bring a gift under $10 if you’d like to participate in secret Santa! (Optional). Come down and make new friends from all over the world on Christmas night!

Friendly game of five a side indoor football (soccer). Indoor trainers/boots. No studs. Played on timber floor. Bibs will be supplied. Game Rules: Kick ins from the side. Goal keeper must throw the ball out when the ball goes behind. No slide tackles. After each goal a spot kick is taken and the opposing team must stand behind the white line (you'll understand when you get there). Keeper rotates every 6 minutes. If you need to pull out of the game for any reason, please RSVP no and then message the event so that another can potentially fill your spot. Please note that you should do this at least 48 hours (the sooner the better) before the game to allow the chance for someone to take your spot. If we are unable to fill the spot then I will not be able to refund you. Thank you.

IMPORTANT NEW INFORMATION - LOCATION CHANGE TO MELBOUNE CITY. Due to cool weather forecast for Christmas Day, we've decided to skip the beach and opt for something a little more cozy. Plan A (good weather): If the weather’s good enough, we’ll meet at 5pm in FITZROY GARDENS for a casual drink/snack (feel free to bring something to sip), then head to the DUKE OF WELLINGTON around 6. Plan B (shit weather): If the weather sucks, we’ll skip the park and meet directly at the DUKE OF WELLINGTON at 5pm. Get ready for a Christmas miracle, mates! ✨ Localish is stoked to host our inaugural Orphans Christmas – no actual orphans required (but seriously, all are welcome!) 🎄 If Christmas feels a bit lonely without the fam or mates, we've got you! Join us for a day of company, connection, and top-notch snacks. Bring a plate to share and BYO bevs for the picnic part of the event. Join our Localish Facebook group to stay up-to-date with all our events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/localishconnections/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

Wind down after Christmas, with your fellow LGBTQIA+ folks for a social evening of board games at Marché Board Games Cafe! We have access to the games library at the cafe. If you have a game that you want to share, please feel free to bring it along. We play all sorts of games - card games, party games, strategy games - and we're happy to teach new players. Groups for games usually form between 6:30-6:45, so it's important to try arrive on time to ensure you're allocated to a game/group. Anyone arriving late may have to wait for a game if all groups have started. The cafe has drinks and food available. Check out their menu here: https://mbgcafe.com.au/menu.pdf We only accept payment at the time of booking to reserve your spot. This means you will need to pay the booking amount via PayPal at the time of booking to confirm your spot. If you can't make it to the event, please ensure you get in touch by messaging the event hosts or emailing rainbowbg.melbourne@gmail.com at least one day before the event, and we can reverse your payment via PayPal. The cafe does NOT have a liquor licence. Consuming alcohol on the premises is illegal, and will result in any members being banned from future events. See you on Boxing Day!

🌿 The Social Stroll Plan Date & Time: 27 December, 1pm Start/Finish: Rushall Station car park (station entrance) Distance/Duration: ~10km, ~3 hours (leisurely pace with stops) 🚶 Segment 1: Rushall Station → Merri Creek Circuit - Kick off with a flirty, social vibe—think light banter and playful “post‑Christmas detox” jokes. - The Merri Creek bushland offers shaded paths, bird calls, and a gentle warm‑up for the legs. - Incorporate a “Grievance Alignment Chart” moment: everyone shares one funny holiday grievance (too much pudding, awkward family karaoke) as a satirical ritual. 🌊 Segment 2: Merri Creek → Dights Falls (Yarra Bend Park) - Arrive at Dights Falls, where the Yarra cascades over the historic weir. - Pause for a mini‑ritual: “Dance of the Falls”—a playful group stretch or sway, channeling the Eat Drink Danc ethos. Yoga instructors wanted otherwise we'll learn Gangnam style dancing from a Kpop YouTube video. This certainly assists in my attempt to start a Korean boy band! - Snap group photos with the falls as backdrop—badge‑worthy material for your satirical campaign kits. ☕ Segment 3: Dights Falls → Studley Park & Studley Park Boathouse - Meander through Studley Park picnic areas, weaving in bushland and river views. - Arrive at the Studley Park Boathouse for coffee, snacks, and a cheeky toast to “post‑Xmas drop tour hair and relax vibes.” - Suggested ritual: “Compliance Log of Indulgence”—each person logs their chosen snack as part of the satirical kit. 🌳 Segment 4: Return via Yarra Bend → Rushall Station - Stroll back along the Yarra Bend bushland, soaking in late‑afternoon light. - Close with a “Re‑Education Pamphlet” reflection: what indulgence will you drop before the Kokoda prep walk? - Finish at Rushall Station car park, energized but relaxed. 🎭 Thematic Layering - Eat Drink Danc Melbourne spirit: playful rituals, spontaneous stretches, satirical mottos. - Post‑Christmas vibes: light detox humor, relaxed pace, indulgence logs. - Preparation for Kokoda 1000 Steps (Jan 4): - Treat this as a training stroll—steady pace, mindful breathing, light climbs and dumb jokes and an attempt to create a bachelorette style recruitment drive for groupies for the Korean boy band I'm planning without the swimsuit competition. - Encourage group camaraderie: “If we can laugh through 10km, we can climb 1000 steps.” --- 🪧 Suggested Motifs & Slogans - “Falls, Feasts & Footsteps” – motto for the day. - Badges: - Commissar of Coffee (for the first to order at the boathouse) - Dance Marshal of Dights (for leading the falls stretch) - Studley Snack Auditor (for logging indulgences) --- This stroll becomes more than a walk—it’s a social satire circuit, a playful ritual of bushland, falls, coffee, and camaraderie, all while gently prepping for the Kokoda 1000 steps climb and walk next week

You must check into with the host and say you are with Suzie or Columbus Meetup To get the drink specials you must check in before 8:30 pm These are the drinks specials: $3 Domestic Draft- Miller Lite & Coors Light $3 Well Liquor Cocktails (no doubles/no redbull/no shots) $4 Vizzy Seltzers $5 Select Call Liquor-Titos, Bacardi, Bombay, Cazadores Reposado, & Jack Daniels (no doubles/no redbull/no shots) $5 Select Shots- White Tea Shots & Fireball

**⚔️ Introduction to Wargaming & Painting Miniature Soldiers at The Arcane Foundry ⚔️** Join me in **The War Room at [The Arcane Foundry](https://share.google/S5i6DYJnJteHWeKtd)** for a laid-back evening of hobby talk and tabletop fun! For just **$15**, you’ll get a **3D-printed regiment of 20 high quality resin models** of your choice to paint — a **$40 value!** Bring your creativity, relax, and let’s make something awesome together. **Choose one from Below:** * 20 Orc Warriors * 20 Empire Soldiers * 20 Dwarf Warriors * 20 Elf Spearmen Step into a world where strategy meets artistry — and where every painted figure tells a story of battle, honor, and imagination. Join **Daclaud** at **The Arcane Foundry** for an evening that introduces newcomers and enthusiasts alike to the timeless craft of **tabletop wargaming** and **miniature painting**. My own journey began with a fascination for fantasy — knights in armor, grim and hardened warriors, and monstrous creatures locked in epic battle. That passion led me to **Dungeons & Dragons**, where I painted my first **Basic Heroes set** and felt the spark that comes from bringing a character to life in miniature form. Not long after, I discovered **Warhammer Fantasy** and **Warhammer 40,000**, and I was hooked. The vision of vast armies clashing across the table — each unit meticulously painted, each story unfolding through dice and imagination — became my creative obsession. During this event, we’ll explore the **origins of wargaming**, from its early military simulations to the richly detailed worlds of modern tabletop battle systems. You’ll learn how to **build and customize your own armies**, paint your first figures, and experience the joy of turning strategy and storytelling into a hands-on art form. Whether you’re drawn by the lore, the hobby, or the thrill of commanding miniature legions, this introduction will open the gates to a world that has captivated hobbyists for generations. **🎨 RSVP today and join us at The Arcane Foundry — where every brushstroke and battle tells a story.**

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

[The Board Walks](www.theboardwalks.com) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** **and join us for a 5-mile walk** (10,000+ steps!). **What to expect:** We walk as a group and dive into topics that go beyond small talk. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **Come prepared:** We ask that you bring a thoughtful topic with you. At the start of the walk, everyone shares their topic with the group, and these become the launching points for conversations throughout our 5 miles together. Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. Be a good egg and bring a topic that'd make people go "Oooh, interesting." **Important notes:** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). We want everyone to have a great experience, and this format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. **FAQs:** * We have multiple first-timers on each walk! We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are very welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **Logistics:** * **Arrive on time.** If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we kindly suggest that you skip the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and one of our goals is to create a "phone-free" space — which means everyone (including the host!) will be fully present. We can't answer messages during the event. * **Read our [Ground Rules](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules)**. Our host gives an overview of what to expect at the beginning of the walk. * **Share the magic**. If you enjoy the event, send **[this](www.theboardwalks.com)** to a friend. We're currently in 7 cities with more on the way (Austin, SF, NYC, Denver, Columbus, Boone, London). 🤠👋 **If you want to go deeper...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. * We're currently building our waitlist. Apply [here.](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board)

# Save the date! FUTURE MEETINGS! [](https://www.meetup.com/funandfood/events/299189211//attendees/) [Hosted By](https://www.meetup.com/funandfood/events/299189211//attendees/) [Dara T.](https://www.meetup.com/funandfood/events/299189211//attendees/) This listing is information only. Each event will be scheduled individually. ## DO NOT TRY TO SIGN UP ON THIS LIST! January 12 , 2025 - Greek epiphany: Blessing of the Waters, Mad Greek Restaurant February 9, 2025 - Valentine's Day in Germany, Hillgarten Beer Garden, Hilliard March 15, 2025, Indian Holi Festival, Aab India Restaurant April 6, 2025 - Chinese: Hanchi / Qingming Festival May 4, 2025 - Japanese Golden Week, Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant June 8, 2025- Hawaiian King Kamehameha Day, Ohana Grill Hawaiian Restaurant July 5, 2025, 60's Nostalgia: Dance to the Moonbats, JT's Restaurant (Fabulous pub food and great beer, as well as dancing music). They play British Invasion music. Dining Out Fun Times Make New Friends ## Photos (1) [See all](https://www.meetup.com/funandfood/photos/34336422) Add photos