Mountains

This is a 2-3 day ride and walking tour . We be staying at Polana Camp near Healsville Sanctuary. "Polana" Camp, is a historic camp set up by post WWII polish migrants, within 4.1 hectares of a native bushland. Located at Badger Creek, it is just 3km away from Healesville town centre with a number of unique cafes and restaurants, supermarkets and more. It is also a walking distance (1.5 km) from the famous Healesville Wildlife Sanctuary. There are a number of tourist's attractions in close proximity and a short drive to the Victoria Yarra Valley wine region with tens of wineries having open cellar doors for visitors. The camp is known for its rich bird life. Very often a laughing kookaburra can be heard, and a number of parrot species would come to the ground (eg. Rosellas, King and Cockies incl the black ones), that are friendly enough to seat on your shoulder or hand for feeding (the camp staff can provide seeds on request).The forest is still a large part of the camp, with a native Australian bushwalking track throughout the property if one would like to explore. Leaving 11:00 from Lillydale Station via the rail trail to Woori Yallock then on back roads to the Polana Camp. The first day will be easy ride around 40km. Arrive at the camp around 3.00 pm . Then can do a walk around the property . Second day ride to Maroondah Dam for a view then on to Yarra Glen for lunch then returning back to Polana. Third day. Into Healsville for late Breakfast at Beechworth Bakery then onto Lilydale Station. Saturday's Route: [Saturdays](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53366453) Sunday's Route: [Sunday Route](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53166553) Monday's Route : [Healsville to Lillydale](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/53397405) You will need. A sleeping bag, pillow case as there are bunks, You can also pitch a tent. Insect repellent. Walking Shoes. Spare tube,repair kit,water There is plenty for food options in Healsville and Yarra Glen . Saturday night there will be a late night BBQ as its a tradition at this camp . Cost: $90.00 for the weekend. Payment David Kuttner CBA bsb 067167 account 1128 5085 It's your responsibility to check the temperature and distance for the day and carry an appropriate amount of water. When riding outside suburbia remember that carrying too much water is better than not enough as the distances between water availability may vary greatly from the planned route due to road closures or other unforeseen circumstances. Check Meetup for any changes the day before the ride, as the ride may be cancelled in the event of extreme weather or other unforeseen circumstances. If you cannot make it to the ride please change your RSVP to 'NO' at least one day before the ride day. This ride is for MBTC club members, or those who have not yet done 3 days riding with us. To join our club check out [https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership](https://www.mbtc.org.au/membership) The MBTC Refund & Cancellation Policy can be found [here](https://www.mbtc.org.au/refund-cancellation-policy/) When I RSVP for this event/activity I acknowledge that the activity of bicycle riding can be dangerous and that I may suffer loss or injury or death and I agree that in consideration of my participation in any event conducted by the MBTC that I will absolve from liability the MBTC, its officers, and any event organizer from all claims, demands, or suits whether for personal injury or property loss suffered whether by negligence or breach of contract or otherwise, save for any right I may have pursuant to the Australian Consumer law. I acknowledge that photos may be taken of me during MBTC rides and social events, and that it is club practice that these photos will be published on Meetup, Facebook, and the club website. I will notify the ride leader and other riders if I wish to not be photographed. MBTC cannot guarantee that my photo will not be published and will promptly honour requests to be removed from MBTC controlled sites.

**\*\*\*This is a pre-booking event. Please visit [artmasterclass.com.au](https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/) choose your ceramic, use the MEETAMC10 coupon code, and make a reservation.\*\*\*** **Ceramic Paint & Sip Workshop - Melbourne** **Hosted by Art Masterclass** Unleash your creativity at our fun and relaxing Ceramic Paint & Sip Workshop! Whether you're a seasoned artist or have never touched a paintbrush before, this workshop is perfect for all skill levels—no prior knowledge is required. Join us for different sessions every day, where you can personalize your ceramic masterpiece while enjoying a glass of wine in the heart of Melbourne. Book your session today and experience the joy of art in a fun and social setting!

Hi Everyone, Let’s grab a coffee, go for a walk around The Tan and enjoy being in the presence, meeting new people, exploring this social event in a relaxed and open environment. The Tan walk, jog or run around is a 3.827km track around the Botanic Gardens. We could do 1 lap, or 2 laps or 3 laps, see how we feel being in the moment. There are cafes on Domain Road right across from the meeting point. Feel free to grab a coffee before the event starts. This event is child and pet friendly. IMPORTANT! *Mind The Walk of this meetup will NOT accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury / accidents for your personal belongings/property at social meetups. *Attending and participating at social meetups you are taking responsibility for your own, self-awareness, well-being and safety. Thank you Mind The Walk

Starting a little later so you can still enjoy your Saturday night! It's been a very long time since I did this lap, so this will be at a reduced pace to match my reduced MTB fitness! If you're starting out MTB'ing this is a great location to learn the skills. Lysterfield blue trails are among the easiest blue trails I've ridden. I'll be doing a 15km loop of the Blue trails. These are intermediate trails with some jumps, drops and obstacles with alternate paths around many of these features so you can choose to tackle as much or as little of the challenges as you prefer. I'll point out features to watch out for before each section. **NOTE**: Beginner level mountain biking will require that you are a competent bike rider on tarmac. This includes being able to stand up and move around confidently on a bike while shifting your weight. We will be going at a reduced moderate pace. An opportunity for beginners to come along on the journey and get started. If this is your first time around Lysterfield, don't underestimate the distance. You will get a good workout by the end of it, but you might also get addicted to this sport like I did. A dual suspension mountain bike is recommended, but a decent quality hard tail (front suspension only) mountain bike will also be suitable. These trails are **not suitable** for road bikes, hybrid bikes or full rigid mountain bikes. Department store mountain bikes (Anaconda, Decathlon, etc.) are not recommended, but might make it around once or twice if you go gentle on them. If you're unsure, please message me beforehand. After the ride, there will be an optional stop at Stella's Kitchen for a coffee and a snack. They have a fantastic fruit shop too. **What to bring** * Suitable Mountain Bike with pumped up tyres, working gears and brakes * Helmet * Gloves/Elbow & Knees Protective gear if you have any * Water (bottle or backpack) * Snacks/food * Sun screen/Sun glasses/Protective eye wear **Meeting location** Meet next to the sign at the after hours carpark. https://maps.app.goo.gl/mKbLAmXpBeWKVHDp7 **LIABILITY WAVER** The organiser of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury or accidents to participants or their property on 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.

**✨ An Evening of Creativity in the Artist’s Studio ✨** Step into my studio for an evening of creativity, wine, and inspiration. In this relaxed sip & paint session, the subject is “Abstract Portrait Fun ” “Grab a friend, partner, or loved one—or come solo with a photo—and join a fun, relaxing paint & sip session! Explore abstract painting together as you create a unique partner portrait full of color, emotion, and personality. No experience needed—just bring your creativity and enjoy a few hours of laughter, wine, and art-making. Perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking for a playful creative escape.” I’ll guide you step by step, showing techniques and helping you create a piece that reflects your vision. No experience is needed — just bring curiosity, your creativity, and a glass of wine. 🎨 All art supplies provided 🍷 BYO drinks (or enjoy provided light refreshments) 🌸 Limited seats to keep it cozy & inspiring. Chesse Platter (for snackies) Just bring clothes to paint in. Come for the painting, stay for the atmosphere.

We are heading to the stunning Great Ocean Road! This will be a once a year event. We will be hiring a 24 seater bus with driver. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please get your Trybooking ticket ($89-$109): [https://www.trybooking.com/DHNST](https://www.trybooking.com/DHNST) Payments are managed through Trybooking and not Meetup. You will see an **"Unpaid"** status on your RSVP. The only thing you need is the Trybooking ticket which you will receive by email. You do not have to message me for the same. I will manually update the meetup payment status closer to the event date if the names on Trybooking and Meetup are the same. Trybooking tickets are non-refundable. There is no option to transfer the ticket to a new date. Trybooking tickets will be only refunded if the event is cancelled or moved. **Meeting Point**: Let's meet at Federation Square Bus & Coach Pickup Drop-off Zone at 8:50 AM. It's around 4-5 minutes walk from Flinders Street Station. To get directions, please follow this \*\*[Google Map Link ](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Federation+Square+Bus+%26+Coach+Pickup+Drop-off+Zone/@-37.8171217,144.9679412,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x6ad642b7a89d520f:0x9629c0ef7d056ab5!8m2!3d-37.817126!4d144.9701299)\*\*or click on the meetup map icon. Cost: $89 - Lucky Bird $99 - Early Bird $109 - Regular Locations: **Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery** \- Huge selection of chocolate and ice cream\. They also offer free chocolate tasting which is a bonus\. 🚻 **Memorial Arch at Eastern View** \- Take photo with Great Ocean Road Sign\. Eastern View's memorial arch is one of the first stops on the Great Ocean Road\. The 243km war memorial was built four times in memory of those who built it\. **Teddy's Lookout** \- Teddy's Lookout at Lorne has one of the best ocean and beach views on the Great Ocean Road\. **Apollo Bay** \- Apollo Bay is one of Australia's most picturesque seaside villages\. This is also be our lunch stop\. Please note that lunch is not included as part of the bus ticket\. 🚻 **Loch Ard Gorge** \- The power of the coastline can be truly felt at Loch Ard Gorge\, one of the few places along the Great Ocean Road that can also be accessed from the beach\. **12 Apostles** \- Despite the 30 rock formations along this stretch of coast\, only eight of the original Apostles remain\. 🚻 **Colac** \- Quick stop at Colac on the way back to Melbourne\. 🚻 Please follow us on Social Media for photos, videos & updates: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@explore-melbourne) \| [Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/exploremelb) \| [Facebook Group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/exploremelb) \| [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/xpmelb/) \| [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@exploremelbourne) \| [ExploreMelbourne.AU](https://exploremelbourne.au/) Explore Melbourne is the largest meetup group in Australia with more than 42,000 members. We know these group rules won’t suit everybody, and that’s okay—there are many other groups where you might feel more at home. To keep things safe, fun, and positive, we have 8 simple rules for people attending our events. Over the past 9 years, we’ve removed 342 people (around 0.8%) for breaking them—so please read carefully! ❌ Not a dating group – We’re here to make friends and share experiences, not find soulmates. 📵 No phone numbers – You’re welcome to swap social media if you both agree, but please don’t share or ask for phone numbers. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 No advertising – Please don’t promote other events, groups, or businesses here. 😅 Don’t be clingy – Give people space to mingle and chat with others too. 🚗 No carpooling – For safety reasons and insurance coverage, we don’t allow carpooling or ride-sharing through the group. 💰 No sales pitches – That means no selling, MLMs, pyramid schemes, or “life-changing mentorships.” Keep it scam-free. By joining an event, you agree to follow these rules. Breaking them means removal from all our groups—no exceptions. Thank you! **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 safety and well-being. By joining this event, you agree to the liability waiver mentioned here: [https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/](https://exploremelbourne.au/explore-melbourne-liability-waiver/)

Do you live in the Southern suburbs? Want to explore what the Southern suburbs has to offer? Or are you just interested to catch-up with like-minded people? Once a month Steph hosts our Southern socials. It is a great opportunity to meet others. Our emphasis is on fun whilst helping and supporting each other. The socials include drinks and chats, casual coffees, dinners and other activities suggested by members from time to time. Our socials are informal and open to all. We pay for own food and drinks individually and there is no charge for the organisation of the events. We hope to see you!

Some trained COUNT volunteers work together once a month at RMH (http://www.rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer.php) as Housewarmers (usually on the 1st Sunday from 1 – 5 PM). Some schedule other shifts at their convenience. You may try this out with less fuss by following a "Fast track" or go through the normal process. Fast track • Arrange a time to shadow a COUNT volunteer. Call Dave Nohle at 614-268-9558 (cell). • Show up and try it out. • Complete application, etc. later. Normal process • Complete an online application (http://rmhc-centralohio.org/volunteer/). • Attend orientation in advance. • At orientation you will complete forms agreeing to keep family/patient info private and allowing a background check and tour the facility. • Complete one training shift. Daily shifts are: morning 9 AM - 1 PM, afternoon 1 - 5 PM and evening 5 - 9 PM. • Schedule shifts online using the on the RMH scheduling system (http://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/?FROM=32895). The Ronald McDonald House (RMH) provides housing and meals for families with sick children. The Columbus RMH is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. COUNT has been volunteering there since May 2014. Housewarmers work with RMH guests to provide a home-like environment - greet, assist with family needs, answer phones, give tours, assist with checkin/checkout, prepare guest rooms after checkout, clean facility, laundry, restock supplies and staff the front desk. RMH Housewarmers volunteer at least one four-hour shift a month. All Housewarmers must complete an application and agree to a background check before they can be full fledged volunteers.

**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.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Come assist Van Buren Shelter (https://ymcacolumbus.org/locations/vanburen) staff in serving dinners and cleaning up on the 3rd Tuesday of each month. Dinner for the women is 5-6 pm and for the families is 6:15-7:15 pm. There is ample free parking available in the shelter's lot. The recommended area to park is in green in the image above. There will be a new entrance for the time being. We are asking all volunteers to enter through the Donation Dock door, the orange mark on the image above. This door is located between the Single Adults and Family Shelter. You will see 2 large garage doors with a large green trash compactor in the center. Please head to the closest garage door to the building wall, with a ramp leading up. There, you will see a door with a sign stating instructions on how to enter the building. Please ring the doorbell, and a staff member will come and escort you into the building. If a staff member takes longer than 5 minutes, please call the front desk at 614-689-2020. This is a new process for us, and we do not want to keep you waiting! We appreciate your patience as we navigate this temporary change. The shelter needs a volunteer count the day before the event so sign-up ends Monday at 4:50 PM. Afterwards some of us go to the Omnipresent Atheists Weekly Meetup in progress to have a bit to eat or drink (http://www.meetup.com/omnipresentatheists/). Volunteers must be 14 or older. Since we will be working around families, the YMCA does not permit volunteering by individuals with convictions for violent or sexual crimes. The YMCA reserves the right to run background checks on volunteers. For questions, comment on this page or contact: Andrew, awhit12@yahoo.com, (614)937-5802 (cell). Please let Andrew know if you volunteer anytime other than our COUNT events so that he can count your hours toward our service record.

We will do around 3.5 miles on the paved trail. Toni will be leading at the front - around 16 minute mile - and I’ll be bringing up the rear closer to a 19 minute mile (or as appropriate). No one left behind. Optional lunch at Paddock Pub.