Conservation

Hello Minimalists! We are back to our regularly scheduled monthly meetups! If you have stuff to declutter, bring it around and see if anyone could give it a new home. Anything left over we can donate it at the op-shop after we are done at the cafe. Looking forward to chatting about what's been going well in our minimalist journeys and share tips and tricks! P.S. We always appreciate a gold coin donation to help with the cost of the meetup fees (until we figure out a low cost-alternative to Meetup).

* Have fun and meet friendly people at our regular contra dances! Second Saturday evening (except June, Nov) and fourth Sunday evening (except Dec) of each month in 2026, often with live music. Contra dance has some similarities to bush dance and square dance. It is very popular in the USA, Canada and London. The dances consist of interesting patterns, walked to upbeat music. For a good description, look at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance. A good example can be viewed at [http //dancevideos.childgrove.org/contra/contra-modern/163](http://dancevideos.childgrove.org/contra/contra-modern/163-heartbeat-contra) * All dances are called. Singles and couples are all very welcome. The cost is $12 ($6 for students). If no live music, then the cost is $8 ($4 for students). Cash or PayID is preferred. * No experience needed. If first time, please attend for free instruction before the dance from 7.15 – 7.45 pm. * **Uniting Church Hall, 72 Highfield Rd, Canterbury** * You might also like to come beforehand to Bao & Bun Vietnamese restaurant 770 Riversdale Rd at about 6 pm. Just roll up.

Come along at 5pm for our 1 hour Church Service and stay for a free dinner & drinks.

**Collaborate, Share, Talk, Hack, Make, Break, Fix, Enjoy, Learn, Re-use, Contribute** Visitors and newcomers are very welcome, please see https://hackmelbourne.com/newcomer-faq/ for more details. Short walk from Glenferrie train station. Car parking at Hawthorn Town Hall or St Columbs St. Please pay attention to parking signs as the inspectors are always on the job. Bring a laptop and/or project you are working on. There is also a number of group projects that you are welcome to join in. 3D Printing, Laser Cutting, Electronics, Programming, Robotics, Prop Building, Costuming, Milling, Machining, Home Automation and more. The Connected Community Hackerspace (CCHS) is a community workshop, sometimes also known as a makerspace. We are run by members for members and are dedicated to providing facilities, tools and networking for members to achieve their projects. Our members work on personal and group projects. If you are interested in making/hacking join our Discord where like-minded people discuss their projects. See Discord link on our website. hackmelbourne.org Note - not all our members use meetup, so the RSVP's here dont reflect the total numbers.

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → LAKE EILDON**🏙️ * 📅 **SUN 11 JAN, DAY TRIP ☀️** * ***Where calm meets adventure*** 🌿🚶‍♂️🛶 ——————— * 🌿 **JOIN US FOR A NATURE-FILLED ESCAPE!** 🌿 Step into the picture-perfect beauty of the outdoors as we **hike** through a network of peaceful trails, surrounded by native bushland and the friendly company of kangaroos, wombats, and a chorus of colourful birds. 🏞️ **We’ll journey to stunning Lake Eildon** for a relaxing day of **kayaking** across its sparkling waters, followed by a fresh fruit platter and a lakeside picnic to soak up the serenity. 🌄 **Breathe in the views** from scenic lookouts on short, rewarding treks that offer breathtaking panoramas over Lake Eildon and its peaceful valleys. 🌟 **Meditation** \- ground & breathe\, the perfect way to feel balanced after a day of adventure\! ✨ Whether you're a nature lover or just in need of a soul-refreshing getaway, this trip promises connection, discovery, and retreat. Let’s explore, unwind, and make memories **together**. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What’s Included?** *(All-Inclusive for $99!)* ✅ Round-trip **transport** in a comfortable **MERCEDES minivan** 🚐 ✅ Guided **9 km hike** with an elevation gain of 180m 🥾 + gears ✅ **Kayaks** + all gears ✅ Unlimited **snacks, soft drinks, coffee & tea** ☕ ✅ **Fruit platter** 🍫 ✅ **Meditation** & grounding 🧘 ✅ **Picnic** \- with great company ✅ Visit **stunning scenic lookouts** 🌄🦘 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### 🌿 **Here’s the Plan for the Day -** 🌅 **07:00** – Meet at **St Paul’s Cathedral**, Flinders Street 🌲 **08:00** – Short break to stretch and refresh ☕ **09:00** – Morning coffee, tea & snacks (included) 🥾 **09:15** – Begin a 9 km **forest hike** (180 m elevation) 🍽️ **12:30** – **Picnic lunch** (BYO welcome) with unlimited drinks, snacks & a fresh **fruit platter** 🛶 **13:30** – **Kayaking** across sparkling waters (beginner-friendly) 🌟 **15:30** – **Meditation** \- ground & breathe 🌄 **16:30** – Visit to a scenic **lookout point** 🏙️ **18:30** – Return to Melbourne with a head full of stories and a camera full of memories * 📍 Drop-off: Hammer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 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:** Wa 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** 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** 🧢 ✔️ **BYO lunch** 🍽️ (or can buy on the way) ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-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 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **\*\*\**We Hike, We Kayak, We Explore***\*.\***\*\*\*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **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. * Thanks

Join us for a gentle seaside walk from **Brighton Beach Station (**first stop **= Beach Boxes)** to **St Kilda**, designed for people who enjoy meaningful conversation without pressure or performance. We’ll walk at an easy pace, naturally breaking into small chats as we go. There’s light structure (so no one feels awkward arriving solo), but plenty of freedom to simply enjoy the walk, the views, and the company. This is for you if you enjoy: * Thoughtful, curious conversation * Being outdoors and moving your body gently * Social connection that feels relaxed and human * Meeting like-minded people without loud venues or small talk overload **Good Conversation questions will be available** (completely optional). After the walk, those who wish can stay on for an **early dinner around 5:30pm** in St Kilda. ### **Details** 📍 **Start:** Brighton Beach Train Station 🕒 **Meet:** 3:00pm 🚶‍♀️ **Walk:** Brighton → St Kilda (**8km** easy pace) 🍽 **Optional:** Dinner around 5-5:30pm 💸 **Cost:** Free 👟 **What to bring:** Comfortable shoes, layers, water, sun protection Open to **young-at-heart adults (approx 25–50)**, but age isn’t rigid - vibe matters more. **NOTE:** Travelling from Melb CBD? There's a bus replacement service today (Sandringham Line) from South Yarra. That bus arrives at Brighton Beach station at **2:40pm**. For this event, people park their car near St Kilda Beach and catch public transport (trams + train / bus) to Brighton (52min journey).

**Join Social Threads for a relaxed, friendly session where we’ll explore simple ways to feel more connected – both with the people around us and in our neighbourhood.** In this workshop, you’ll: * Learn practical, hands-on tools to build stronger everyday connections * Grow your confidence in engaging with others in natural, everyday settings * Feel more empowered in how you approach social connection * Walk away with a customised *social toolkit* that we’ll create together There’s **no right or wrong** in this discussion - just open, supportive conversation. You’ll also have the opportunity to **connect and form friendships** with fellow attendees in a welcoming space. Bring a pen and your journal – we’d love to have you there!

✨ **Do you want to...** * 🫶🏽 Connect with like-minded people in your local community? * 🏋🏽‍♂️ Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others? * 🌈 Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn)? * 🧘🏼‍♂️ Experience a simple yet powerful meditation practice to find calm and clarity? Or maybe you just want to... ☮️💟☯️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet some amazing new people?** *** ### **Join us on Sundays!** Let’s come together, share positive energy, and build a warm, supportive local community. **Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** *** ### **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection *** ### **Everyone is welcome!** All ages (with guardians for under 18), backgrounds, genders, and experiences – no meditation experience needed. The event runs for about **2.5 hours**, but you’re free to come and go as you need. *** ### **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue costs, provide resources, and keep this meditation community alive and growing. * **Warm jumper/jacket** (just in case!) * **Water** * **Any books/resources/inspiration you’d love to share** *** ### **Where?** 📍 **250 George St, Fitzroy VIC 3065** Enter through the church gates. You’ll see a small garden on the left and stairs on the right leading up to the **Dance of Life Yoga Studio (first door on your right upstairs).** *** ### **Important Notes:** * Spaces are **limited**, so if you can’t make it, please update your RSVP to “Not going” or send us a quick message. * **No-show policy:** To keep it fair for everyone, repeat no-shows without notice may not be able to RSVP in the future. * Attendees under 18 must have a guardian present.

Like to start our year hanging with nature/forest bathing, walk, looking at arts/NGV and in person conversation/dreams. Please have good walking shoes, bottle of water (predict cooler weather). We will stop often to group chat in a good sitting areas.

Experience the magic of kirtan in one unforgettable evening! Lose yourself in the sound. Enchanting Kirtan is a live sacred-music experience blending ancient mantra, soaring melody and rhythms, and heart-centered meditation. It’s an immersive, flowing sacred sound journey that moves from gentle stillness to joyful collective song & ecstatic dance. Think soft lighting, fusion world music, deep connection, and that indescribable feeling when the whole room is in harmony. Come solo or bring a friend! Everyone’s welcome in this beautiful, heart-opening experience that leaves you glowing from the inside out. Enchanting Kirtan: Sacred World Music & Meditation Experience Saturday 10th January 7pm - 9pm Darebin Arts Centre (Grevillea Room): 401 Bell St, Preston Free community event \| All welcome \| Donations appreciated Book in here: [https://events.humanitix.com/enchanting-kirtan-preston](https://events.humanitix.com/enchanting-kirtan-preston)

December's outdoor version of Silent Book Club was a hit, so January's will be at Fitzroy Gardens too. Bring your own book, read in silence, and we'll gather afterwards for a chat about what we enjoyed. **ITINERARY** 11am: Meet at the lawn outside Kere Kere Green Cafe next to the visitor information centre at Fitzroy Gardens. Find a cosy spot to read. You might want to take your book for a meander around the park. 12.15pm: Meet back on the lawn to chat about your book. 1pm: End of event. **Note:** Feel free to bring your deck chair / picnic mat, whatever you need to feel comfy. Coffee and lunch can be purchased from the cafe. If you're running late, look for us at 12.15pm on the lawn outside Kere Kere Green Cafe. There is an organizer fee of $5 for this event. You can bring cash on the day or PayID me at 0403 413 056 (Serena Low). **Getting there:** The closest train stations are Jolimont (2 min across the road) and Parliament (10 min walk).

**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.** **In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.** **Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.** **It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.** **Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026** **Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm** **Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio** **All are welcome- bring a friend!** For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)

Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap January 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Join Wild Ones Columbus for their annual native seeds swap. If you have native seeds to share, please label them with the Latin name and common name. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but remove as much stem as possible. Bringing seeds is not required. Bring bags or envelopes to store seeds. Inniswood Metro Gardens 940 S. Hempstead Rd. Westerville, OH 43081 Phone (614)895-6216 This event will be held in the Greenhouse/Multipurpose Building located near the east end of the parking lot. Click here to see the Inniswood map. If you have native seeds to share, label each species with this information: * Botanical Name * Common Name Species we will accept: * Species native to our ecoregion (8.2.4) - Best * Species native to Ohio and surrounding states - Good * Straight species only - no cultivars. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but don’t leave much stem on the seed heads. Please email the list of species to Mary May so we can prepare information for attendees. You can bring the seeds on the day of the swap, or we can arrange to have them picked up beforehand - just let her know in the email. If you don’t have any seeds to bring, no worries. If you are new to native plants or didn't have time to collect seeds, there are ALWAYS plenty from those that do bring them! We love to see "newbies" at our seed exchange! Also, remember to bring something to put seeds in such as envelopes, paper bags or containers.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

**Practice presence, boundaries, and authentic relating in a warm, beginner-friendly circle for real connection and growth.** This monthly connection circle offers a warm and welcoming space to deepen your relational skills using the technique of Authentic Relating. Together, we will practice being present, boundaried, and real with ourselves and with others. Each month, we focus on essential themes like presence, boundaries, and communication. You'll learn a bit of technique, then have the opportunity to explore and practice with others in a supportive group setting. This event is open to all and beginner friendly. You’re welcome to come on your own or with your partner(s), though no partner is required to participate. Most of our time will be spent seated in chairs, with optional invitations to stand or move. Your participation is always your choice. Consent, autonomy, and safety are core values in this space. **[Tickets can be purchased in advance](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/the-center-for-conscious-connection-4337003) or in person** and are offered on a sliding scale ($22 to $44). After our circle, we’ll enjoy some light snacks and informal social time. **Important details:** * Arrival time is between 6:45 PM and 7:15 PM * Doors will be locked at 7:15 PM to maintain the integrity of the container * You are welcome to leave at any time if needed * Please bring a water bottle * This is a sober space. Alcohol and substances are not permitted **Schedule:** * 6:45 to 7:15 PM – Arrival and check-in * 7:15 to 8:30 PM – Facilitated Authentic Relating Circle Experience * 8:30 to 9:00 PM – Social time and snacks Our circle is led by **Robyn Bragg**, a relationship and embodied intimacy coach who creates grounded and sacred space for people to grow more fulfilling relationships rooted in trust and communication. Robyn believes that personal growth, presence, and a sense of humor are essential tools for navigating love and connection. She also offers workshops and coaching both online and in person. To stay updated on future offerings or to explore volunteer opportunities, be sure to connect with Robyn or join her mailing list.

Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)

Join the [Columbus Vegan Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/columbusveganmeetup/) on **Saturday, January 10, 2026, at 11:00 AM** at **1043 W 3rd Avenue in Grandview**! Come hang out and enjoy delicious pastries from this **all-vegan, family-owned** local favorite. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just curious, it’s the perfect time to build your social circle and support a community business. See you there!