Historic Preservation

**HIKE OVERVIEW:** **The Castlemaine to Maldon Rail Trail is a 16.7km, moderate hike which runs parallel to the Victorian Goldfields Railway. It passes through bushland, farmland and some gold-era historical sites.** **We will start and meet at Castlemaine Train Station and walk towards Maldon. Our route will take us via Muckleford Train Station.** **We will return back to Castlemaine aboard the steam train operated by the Victorian Goldfields Railway. This historic railway served rural Victoria from 1880 through to the 1970’s and has been restored to its former glory.** **Excursion class one way tickets are $37 ($32 concession) and once you have confirmed your attendance, I will advise here in comments when to book your one-way ticket from Maldon. Please wait for the go-ahead to book your tickets as the event may be suspended if we don’t attract enough interest.** ***when advised*** **you can book your tickets at the following link:** [Book train ticket](https://secure.vgr.com.au/BookingCat/Availability/) **USEFUL LINKS:** **For more details on the route including the gradient involved please see the links below.** [https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/railway-track-maldon-to-castlemaine?sh=uoghfo](https://www.alltrails.com/en-gb/trail/australia/victoria/railway-track-maldon-to-castlemaine?sh=uoghfo) [https://www.vgr.com.au/](https://www.vgr.com.au/) **Lunch** **Lunch: In Maldon we will stop for lunch at the Maldon Hotel, 58 Main St.** [Maldon Hotel](https://www.google.com.au/search?client=safari&hs=mGY&sca_esv=b3ca9c57de57aa89&channel=41&biw=393&bih=641&sxsrf=ANbL-n5zcNoRt1nlnk20vEuCOQZJ3tv4UQ%3A1778719407548&kgmid=%2Fg%2F1tdfyvxv&q=Maldon%20Hotel&shem=rimspwouoe&shndl=30&source=sh%2Fx%2Floc%2Fact%2Fm4%2F3) **BEING PREPARED:** 1. **Arrange your transport** 1. **Check the weather forecast** 1. **Suitable footwear / clothing** 1. **Plenty of water / food / snacks** **RSVP’s / START TIME:** **Plans change, but please keep your RSVP up to date to allow others the chance to attend. Aim to arrive 15 minutes before the start time and message if you are running late. Remember that phone reception won't always be available so contact me as soon as possible if required.** **NOTIFICATIONS:** **All notifications will come via the Meetup app. Ensure you have enabled alerts & check the app in the lead up to an event. Notifications may include; comments, instructions & cancellations.** **QUESTIONS:** **Please feel free to post any questions.**

Hello and welcome back to all our past members and welcome to our new members! This is going to be our **last meetup on Meetup.com**, as some of you know we are moving away from the platform. It has become quite expensive **(around $600 per year!)**, and we’ve also had issues with the software with members being removed, which made it hard to stay in touch with everyone, which is why for most of you this would be first time in a while that you've heard from us. Nevertheless, 12 years of minimalist meetups are not going to come to stop - we will still keep going but via the simple and free email list! So if you are still interested in Melbourne Minimalist Meetups please reply with your best email address or email me on **nyamkab@protonmail.com** *(Sorry for those who I have already messaged about this, we've been having some issues with this platform).* So for one last time this month we'll come together to discuss minimalism, with a focus on **frugal winter hobbies** given the increase in costs and decrease in temperature. It would be great to share and learn from each other about what gives us joy and meaning during fall and winter. As usual we will also have a **swap & declutter,** so bring anything you no longer need/want that is still in good condition. Anything that is not wanted will be donated at the opshop at the end of the event. Looking forward to seeing you! Nyamka & Aidan

## 🇯🇵 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)

**🎲✨ Evergreen Games Day ✨🎲** Join **Bondaroo** for an afternoon of board games, good company, and community at **Evergreen Games** — a charity gaming event raising funds for people affected by cancer through the **Cure Brain Cancer Foundation.** Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or completely new to tabletop games, this is a fun and relaxed way to meet new people, practise English naturally, and enjoy a social Saturday together. 📅 Saturday, 16 May ⏰ 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM 📍 Clyde Hotel, Carlton **Notes:** * A suggested donation of **$10** applies for entry (children enter free). Once you’re in, you’re welcome to come and go throughout the day. * The full event runs from **12:00 PM – 8:00 PM**, so feel free to arrive earlier or stay longer if you’d like to explore more games and activities. 🎮 What to expect: – A huge variety of board games to play – Friendly volunteers teaching games for beginners – Casual social atmosphere & group bonding – Raffles, games, and charity fundraising activities – Food and drinks available at the venue Come solo or with friends — everyone is welcome! Let’s play games, connect, and support a meaningful cause together 🌟 More information about this event: [https://evergreengames.au/](https://evergreengames.au/)

### **🚣‍♂️ Saturday Kayaking at Albert Park Lake! 🌅** Get ready for a **kayaking adventure** right in the heart of the city at the **Sunset & Golden Hour!** 🚣‍♀️✨ Join us this **Saturday** for a fun-filled paddle session, complete with **good vibes, great company, music, and a stunning sunset** over the water. 🌇🎶 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **🎟️ Package Includes – Only $39 PP!** ✅ **Kayaks & gears** 🚣‍♂️ ✅ **Soft drinks & snacks** 🥤🍏 ✅ **Hot tea & coffee** 🍵☕ ✅ **Music & a relaxed social atmosphere** 🎶 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **📍 Meeting Point & Details:** 📅 **Day:** Saturday 📍 **Location:** Albert Park Lake 💲 **Price:** $39 per person 🌊 **Kayaks available – Let’s make some waves!** 🌊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **💳 How to Book:** 📩 **RSVP with a $39 transfer** to secure your spot! **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:** Alb 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Credited or refunded only if the event is canceled/moved. Non-refundable in any other cases \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **🛶 What to Bring:** ✔️ Waterproof/water-repellent clothing 🌊 ✔️ Or spare clothes & shoes (just in case!) 👕👟 ✔️ A positive mindset & excitement for an awesome time! 😃 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **📢 Important!** 📺 **Before attending, please watch these short videos on kayaking safety & techniques:** https://youtu.be/TAEkR13ChPs https://youtu.be/Calmsh4zI5U \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **📲 Have Questions?** Feel free to **DM or call me** ! 📞💬 📌 **Follow & Stay Updated:** 🌍 **Facebook Group:** https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share 📸 **Instagram:** @nogeography.hike.kayak \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🚣‍♂️💙 **Get ready for an unforgettable kayaking experience – see you on the water!** 🌊✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **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!

Enjoy Williamstown Botanic Gardens, Williamstown Beach beach, a Williamstown Sunday ***Craft*** Market in historical heritage side. With short break at Kiosk or Cafe near beach during walk. During walk (or towards ends of walk, but not Meetup end) visit *Sunday Craft Market* near Gem Pier, on shops & historic buildings side of Williamstown. Forecast TBA (16C & rain if Sun; 22C partly cloudy if change to this Saturday). Meet Outside Williamstown Station (last station on the the line\*). Under Big Tree just Outside Station entrance. (Is only 1 Platform here). Meet 12:30-12:40pm. My Phone 0402816644; Best to phone/text. We'll be walking past Williamstown Beach Station during walk, if any persons wish to join us, but not for the Full Meetup/Walk. 2 mins by train back to Williamstown Station (if u drove), or 15 mins walk. Route/plan may vary depending on temp (if gets quite hot, we'll go to village side, with plenty shaded places); OR if weather changes. We may walk early or later during walk to Sunday *Craft* Market (open till 4); all Craft Market items are Created, Handmade, Home Grown or Baked. (*Different market & different location - Alongside Nelson Place/Near Gem Pier - to one we went to last time)* We'll spend about 30-45 minutes there — Check out stalls, grab a coffee or cold drink. And some food, or treats :) to take home. Bring shopping bag or something to put any purchases, if you do, in. If we do market near towards end of walk; after *official Meetup end, we can go to best, most range, icecream & sorbet place in Melbourne.* For those who wish to leave; is easy 7 mins walk to Williamstown Station. Another option, *for yourself,* info re Williamstown to St Kilda Ferry is below As well as visit to Market we'll walk to & through the Park like Botanic Gardens. We'll stop here briefly. Also Toilets less busy & bit cleaner available here, than along beach. (No Toilets at Market, but some at Station/Meet Point) We'll also walk along the foreshore path near the beach. Group can choose to stop at the on foreshore kiosk/cafe — if weather is pleasant & not too breezy or fresh or too hot (__C forecast), OR to go to proper but casual cafe, with beach & bay views. After our almost final stop, we can walk to/via either Williamstown Beach Station (or, Williamstown Station). Those who drove can easily get train 1 station back to Williamstown Stn, if have a myki, OR credit card (new) Option tap may be also available. Or if some people wish, can walk back to Williamstown Station, BUT it will mean, total duration of event will be longer than posted/scheduled. OR, after Meetup/Walk & Cafe some may like to take Ferry to St Kilda — $22 one-way (/$34 return if wish to, if Home is in Williamstown area). I've put duration as generous 2.5 hours (to allow for longer time at market, & at kiosk OR cafe). But we can finish earlier, if you wish. Total actual walking time/distance: approx 75-90 minutes/4-5 kms. Remember to wear hat, sunscreen & bring water. This Walk/Wander is also posted on/combined with 2 more groups; event/meetup is Open to all (18+ - under 18s may attend with an adult). A train arrives at 12:26. Intention is walk to start by/before 12:45pm! If are late getting there; or on next train (arrives 12:46) please post comment on Meetup. I'll post comment which way we go, to start. But may not respond promptly to comment msg, as may be pointing out some items & explaining re them My Phone 0402816644. Best to phone/text, than msg me via Meetup. Public Transport: Take (direct) Train from Flinders St Station or Southern Cross Station, to Williamstown Station. Or take a train from (the new) Town Hall Station or State Library Station, & change at Footscray Station, to Platform 6 for Williamstown Line train. \*If unfamiliar with the Williamstown Line, last 3 stations are: North Williamstown, Williamstown Beach, Williamstown Station/line ends. Mentioning, as some general public get off train at Williamstown Beach Station when meant to go Williamstown Station. Parking/Driving: Recommend parking in Hammer St, & then walk around corner (along Ann St), to Williamstown Station area. There's a few only unrestricted parking spots directly outside the Station, but doubtful if a good place to park, for a few hours. There's the Railway travelers carparking area 35 metres from the station. Finding Me/Us: Exit Williamstown Station (only 1 exit/1 platform) & look to the left, where there's a big tree. Or if drove, go to Ann St (on north side of Station) & walk past Station. [\*Please Note: I posted/edited/copy-modified quickly details (from last walk in Williamstown); please check details in a day or 2, for any alterations]. (And I will condense so easier to read it all).

Enjoy Williamstown Botanic Gardens, Williamstown Beach beach, a Williamstown Sunday ***Craft*** Market in historical heritage side. With short break at Kiosk or Cafe near beach during walk. During walk (or towards ends of walk, but not Meetup end) visit *Sunday Craft Market* near Gem Pier, on shops & historic buildings side of Williamstown. Forecast 27C, partly cloudy, sunny at times. **Meet Outside Williamstown Station** (last station on the the line\*). Under Big Tree just Outside Station entrance. (Is only 1 Platform here). Meet 12:30-12:40pm. My Phone 0402816644; Best to phone/text. We'll be walking past Williamstown Beach Station during walk; if any persons wish to join us, but not for the Full Meetup/Walk; 2 mins by train back to Williamstown Station (if u drove), or 15 mins walk. Route/plan may vary depending on temp (if gets quite hot, we'll go to village side, with plenty shaded places); OR if weather changes. We may walk early or later during walk to Sunday *Craft* Market (open till 4); all Craft Market items are Created, Handmade, Home Grown or Baked. (*Different market & different location - Alongside Nelson Place/Near Gem Pier - to one we went to last time)* We'll spend about 30-45 minutes there — Check out stalls, grab a coffee or cold drink. And some food, or treats :) to take home. Bring shopping bag or something to put any purchases, if you do, in. If we do market near towards end of walk; after *official Meetup end, we can go to best, most range, icecream & sorbet place in Melbourne.* For those who wish to leave; is easy 7 mins walk to Williamstown Station. Another option, *for yourself,* info re Williamstown to St Kilda Ferry is below. As well as visit to Market we'll walk to & through the Park like Botanic Gardens. We'll stop here briefly. Also Toilets less busy & bit cleaner available here, than along beach. (No Toilets at Market, but some at Station/Meet Point) We'll also walk along the foreshore path near the beach. Group can choose to stop at the on foreshore kiosk/cafe — if weather is pleasant & not too breezy or fresh or too hot (__C forecast), OR to go to proper but casual cafe, with beach & bay views. After our almost final stop, we can walk to/via either Williamstown Beach Station (or, Williamstown Station). Those who drove can easily get train 1 station back to Williamstown Stn, if have a myki, OR (new) credit card Option tap may be also available. Or if some people wish, can walk back to Williamstown Station, BUT it will mean, total duration of event will be longer than posted/scheduled. OR, after Meetup/Walk & Cafe some may like to take Ferry to St Kilda — $22 one-way (/$34 return if wish to, if Home is in Williamstown area). [ANZAC Station & Metro Tunnel Line is great option, if in Inner South Suburbs/ Bayside east side Suburbs; to get Inner West, & Bayside West, suburbs, As can change at Footscray Station, to Williamstown train. Instead of crowded tram to CBD/to Southern Cross or Flinders St Stns]. Another option (Private Operator): Ferry from St Kilda to Williamstown [$22 one-way/34 return] then 12 mins/850m walk to Williamstown Stn] I've put duration as generous 2.5 hours (to allow for longer time at market, & at kiosk OR cafe). But we can finish earlier, if you wish. Total actual walking time/distance: approx 75 minutes/3.5-4 kms. Will be nice 21C Sunny; remember to wear hat, sunscreen & bring water. This Walk/Wander is also posted on/combined with 2 more groups; event/meetup is Open to all (18+ - under 18s may attend with an adult). Some attendees may not be single, & some may not be 30s-60s range — is demographics of one group this is on. & often Rsvps, to my events. Getting there: A train arrives at 12:26. If late or on next train (arrives 12:46), please post a comment on Meetup. If all rsvps arrive by 12:40 we'll leave. My Phone 0402816644. Best to phone/text, than msg me via Meetup. Public Transport. Take a Direct Train from Flinders St Station or Southern Cross Station, to Williamstown Station. (Williamstown trains wont go via City Loop, then). Or take a train from (the new) Town Hall Station or State Library Station, & change at Footscray Station, to Platform 6 for Williamstown Line train. \*If unfamiliar with the Williamstown Line, last 3 stations are: North Williamstown, Williamstown Beach, Williamstown Station/line ends. Mentioning, as some general public get off train at Williamstown Beach Station when meant to go Williamstown Station. Parking/Driving: Recommend parking in Hammer St, & then walk around corner (along Ann St), to Williamstown Station area. There's a few only unrestricted parking spots directly outside the Station, but doubtful if a good place to park, for a few hours. There's the Railway travelers carparking area 35 metres from the station. Finding Me/Us: Exit Williamstown Station (only 1 exit/1 platform) & look to the left, where there's a big tree. Or if drove, go to Ann St (on north side of Station) & walk past Station.

**Brighton to Point Ormond – Elwood Beach** ***As it is Mothers Day next Sunday, our next walk will be the following Sunday, 17th May.*** This popular walk along the Elwood foreshore is the perfect outing for an autumn Sunday morning. Join the thousands of Melburnians who regularly walk, jog and ride this wide, well-formed path along the shores of the Bay. Our coffee stop this morning will be at Northpoint Cafe, after we’ve walked from Brighton Beach to Point Ormond and return. **Start:** Bay St, Brighton. Assemble at the beach end of Bay St. **Parking:** Park along Bay Street or in St Ninians Road, off Bay St, just back from the beach. Parking is FREE. **The Walk**: The walk is along the Bayside Trail as far as Point Ormond Lookout and then return the same way. **Total distance**: 6.0 km. **Time:** Allow 2 hours for the walk, including coffee at the end. **Difficulty:** Easy **Toilets:** At several places along the way. **Coffee:** The café at Northpoint Cafe, or other venue (selected on the day) **Cost:** Free

Let’s spend Saturday exploring Scienceworks together. The plan is to meet at Scienceworks in the morning, then move through a full lineup of activities: the Pumping Station Guided Walk, The Glow Show in the Lightning Theatre, several Melbourne Planetarium sessions, and the 4:30pm Fulldome Flicks screening of One Step Beyond. This will be a fairly full day, but the vibe will be relaxed and low-pressure. There will be breaks between sessions, and we can chat, explore the museum, grab food/coffee, or just take it easy between shows. After the final session, anyone who wants to continue hanging out can join for optional dinner at Grazeland Melbourne nearby. Solo attendees are very welcome. **Who this is for** This is good for anyone interested in science, astronomy, space, engineering, museums, planetarium shows, or just doing something a bit different on a Saturday. You do not need to know anyone beforehand. I’ll be there from 10:30am and will help people find the group. **Links** * Meetup start point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/XogEGEFLkeYryFmB7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/XogEGEFLkeYryFmB7) * Scienceworks Map: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/plan-your-visit/visitor-map/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/plan-your-visit/visitor-map/) Pumping Station Guided Walk: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/pumping-station-tour/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/pumping-station-tour/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * The Glow Show: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/the-glow-show/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/the-glow-show/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Starlight: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/starlight/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/starlight/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Black Holes: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/black-holes/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/black-holes/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * "Ticket to the Universe" show: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/ticket-to-the-universe/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/ticket-to-the-universe/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Fulldome Flicks: [https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/fulldome-flicks/](https://museumsvictoria.com.au/scienceworks/whats-on/fulldome-flicks/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) * Optional dinner — Grazeland Melbourne: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUD9ZTGT41NioKbMA](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUD9ZTGT41NioKbMA) **Timeline** * 10:30am — Meet at Scienceworks * 11:00am — Pumping Station Guided Walk * 12:00pm — The Glow Show * 1:00pm — Starlight * 2:00pm — Black Holes * 3:00pm — Ticket to the Universe * 4:30pm — Fulldome Flicks: *One Step Beyond* * 5:30pm — Meetup ends * Afterwards — Optional dinner at Grazeland Melbourne food court The timeline is based on the current Scienceworks session schedule, but attendees should still check the official booking page before purchasing tickets. **Tickets / cost** Please buy your own tickets for the sessions you want to attend. Meetup RSVP does not include museum entry or session tickets. Scienceworks museum entry and individual show/session pricing can vary depending on what you book, so please check the official booking page carefully before purchasing. I recently purchased a Museums Victoria Membership, as it should work out cheaper for me in the long run with multiple museum / Scienceworks visits. If you think you may visit Scienceworks, Melbourne Museum, IMAX, or other Museums Victoria events more often, you may want to check whether membership is worth it for you too. Recommended sessions to book if you want to follow the full meetup plan: * 12:00pm — The Glow Show * 1:00pm — Starlight * 2:00pm — Black Holes * 3:00pm — Ticket to the Universe * 4:30pm — Fulldome Flicks: *One Step Beyond* The Pumping Station Guided Walk is currently listed as included with museum entry, but it is “book on arrival” and may depend on guide availability and weather conditions. Fulldome Flicks may have separate entry conditions, so please check the official ticket page when booking. **Transport** Scienceworks is in Spotswood. Public transport options include train to Spotswood Station, followed by about a 10-minute walk. Please check PTV before travelling in case of disruptions. **Food** There maybe be a café option at Scienceworks during the day, but we may have limited time between some sessions. You may want to bring water and some snacks. After the final session, we can optionally head to Grazeland Melbourne for dinner. Grazeland is next to Scienceworks and is currently listed as open on Saturdays from 12 noon to 10pm, with a $4 entry fee. **Bring** * Your booked tickets / booking confirmation * Water bottle * Snacks or lunch if you prefer not to rely only on café food * Comfortable shoes * Phone charger or power bank * A light jacket **What to expect** This is a full-day museum and planetarium meetup. Most of the day will be indoors, with some walking around Scienceworks and between session spaces. The group may move fairly quickly between sessions, so please arrive on time if you want to stay with the main group. You are also welcome to join only part of the day or leave early. The vibe will be relaxed, friendly, and social. **Weather / backup** Most of the meetup is indoors, so normal rain should not be an issue. The Pumping Station Guided Walk may be affected by guide availability or weather, so if that changes on the day, we can use that time to explore Scienceworks instead. **Important notes** Please book your own tickets in advance if you want to attend the timed shows. Some sessions may sell out. Please try to book the same session times listed in the timeline so we can stay together as a group. If your plans change, please update your RSVP to “Not Going” so numbers stay clear.

Celebrate Melbourne's creative community at **The Artisan’s Guild**, running **every Sunday, 2–6pm** inside the **Fortress Melbourne Tavern**. Meet local artists and makers, discover unique handmade pieces—from prints and pins to jewellery and crafty curios—and chat with the people behind the work. Make an afternoon of it: order a pint or a mocktail, grab some legendary Tavern fare, and settle in amongst the cozy medieval vibes. Even watch our D&F tables pave their adventure together! Whether you’re hunting for a gift, building your hoard of treasures, or just here for the chill weekend vibes, this is the perfect low-key Sunday. Free entry. Family-friendly. Drop in anytime. Are you a maker interested in a stall at a future Guild? Get in touch with Fortress Melbourne to apply. hi@fortress.games **TERMS & CONDITIONS** * *Fortress is a licensed venue, and as such, a valid ID is required and checked upon entrance to the premises.* * *Unaccompanied minors are not permitted in the venue at any time. Please make sure any guests under 18 are accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.* * *Minors are not allowed in the venue past 8:00 pm* * *No outside food or drinks.* *More information on valid forms of identification and Fortress' minors policy can be found here: [www.fortress.games/minors/](https://www.fortress.games/minors/)*

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

Customer identity resolution becomes increasingly complex as organizations scale across multiple systems, regions, and data formats. Traditional rule-based approaches often fail to keep up with data variability, require constant manual tuning, and struggle with real-time processing needs. This session presents a practical approach to building a scalable identity resolution pipeline using AWS services and modern AI techniques. The architecture combines data ingestion through Amazon S3 and AWS Glue, transformation pipelines using Spark on EMR, and machine learning models deployed via SageMaker for entity matching and standardization. Graph-based relationship modeling is implemented using Amazon Neptune to improve resolution accuracy by incorporating household and shared attribute context. We will walk through how machine learning models can be used for name and address normalization, how intelligent blocking strategies improve matching efficiency, and how feedback loops can be introduced to continuously improve accuracy. The session also highlights how serverless components such as AWS Lambda can be used for orchestration and real-time processing. **SPEAKER BIO** Mosaic Syed is a Senior Data Engineering and Cloud Solutions Architect with over 20 years of experience designing and delivering scalable, secure, and high-performance data solutions across global enterprise environments. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mosaic-basha-syed-92300856 **CALL FOR SPEAKERS** Learn more: [https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/](https://www.awscolumbus.com/get-involved/) **THANK YOU** *VEEAM* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Veeam*, please visit their website: [https://www.veeam.com/](https://www.veeam.com/) **DIRECTIONS** 8800 Lyra Dr #450 · Columbus, OH go to 4th floor. **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

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

Wild Ones Columbus Annual Native Plant Sale Saturday, May 23th, 2026 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (Eastern Time) Overbrook Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4131 N High St, Columbus, OH, 43214 Public Welcome, Family-Friendly Free Event A wide variety of native flowering plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees will be available from Wild Ones Columbus and local vendors Natives in Harmony, Leaves for Wildlife, and Scioto Gardens. Wild Ones will publish a list of plants that will be available at this year's sale closer to the event date. Be sure to stop by! Show up anytime!