Nature Walks with Dogs

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'I'd Rather Not' by Robert Skinner. The blurb: 'From one of Australia’s most wryly funny writers comes an original and utterly hilarious memoir of reaching for the stars while lying in a ditch *I was sleeping in what might reasonably be described as a ditch, though I tried not to think of it in those terms for morale reasons . . .* Robert Skinner arrives in the city, searching for a richer life. Things begin badly and then, surprisingly, get slightly worse. Pretty soon he's sleeping rough and trying to run a literary magazine out of a dog park. His quest for meaning keeps being thwarted, by endless jobs, beagles, house parties, ill-advised love affairs, camel trips and bureaucratic entanglements. Sometimes a book catches the spirit of the times. *I'd Rather Not* is about work, escape and that something more we all need. 'I was told this man came from the Adelaide Plains and so commenced to read his work. By the time I realised I'd been viciously misled and he actually grew up in Magill, it was too late. I was already completely in love with the book. It's an absolute bag of lollies.' —Annabel Crabb 'Robert Skinner writes with humour, intelligence and heart. Pick up this book and you may never put it down.' —Tony Birch 'This book is like a big, properly made gin and tonic drunk outside in a garden on a perfect Saturday afternoon.' —Cate Kennedy '…no other book brought me as much joy as this hilarious and deceptively artful collection, and in these uncertain times that is worth plenty.' —Michael Winkler 'No one writes better when the stakes are lower.' —Sam Vincent 'My heart leaps whenever I see Robert Skinner's by-line; I know I am in for a hilarious literary treat complete with wry pearlers, gallows truths and wicked timing. People will say he is Australia's Sedaris, but he's not. He's Robert Skinner and he's a bloody marvel.' —Anna Krien 'Brevity may be the soul of wit, but the nimble economy of this slim volume will make readers pine for more. A decidedly skewed, hilarious collection of life reflections and colorful storytelling.' —*Kirkus* 'Seriously the funniest book I've read all year. I can't stop thinking about Robert Skinner's forays into the most mundane and frustrating aspects of life - Centrelink, being a tour guide, applying for arts funding - and the shameless truths he not only reveals about himself but about us as a society. Read this book with a bottle of wine, and be alarmed and enlightened!' —Alice Pung 'If only all books were as funny, human and true as *I'd Rather Not*. I raced through it, marvelling and envious all the way.' —Michelle de Kretser 'Skinner has been compared to Oscar Wilde, but his book is as self-effacing as it is quip-witted.' —Beejay Silcox, *The Guardian* 'The best Australian books of 2023' 'Skinner has been called the Australian David Sedaris and it's easy to see why. Both have the same droll, self-deprecating humour and both mine their own lives for maximum mirth-making potential. [...] a book with a several-laughs-a-page quotient.' –Thuy On, *Arts Hub* 'The funniest book I have read for a long time' —Andy Griffiths, author of *The Treehouse* series" Goodreads rating: 3.71 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

We are heading to Dandenong Ranges to take in the stunning Autumn Colours in Dandenong Ranges - Alfred Nicholas, Tindale & Gardens. Please carry takeaway lunch and water. Please follow these two steps to confirm your spot: Step 1: Please RSVP (click going) to this event on meetup. Step 2: Please pay the organizer fee ($20) via Trybooking - [https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXQ](https://www.trybooking.com/DIMXQ) This includes 10% GST and Parks VIC fee of $2.40 per person. Trybooking Tickets will be scanned at the meeting point. The tickets are non refundable and there is no option to transfer the ticket to a different event. The ticket will be refunded only if the event is cancelled or moved. **Meeting Point**: Let's meet infront of the black directions sign at Federation Square at 10:00 AM. Meeting Point Photo: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/16_TULglixHSnN4N9OBXos6rCuCVuICGe/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/16_TULglixHSnN4N9OBXos6rCuCVuICGe/view?usp=sharing) Everywhere in the Dandenong Ranges will be awash with bright autumn colours and fallen leaves in late April/May. We will be visiting Alfred Nicholas, George Tindale and Dandenong Botanic Gardens. **George Tindale Gardens** \- One of the more beautiful gardens in the Dandenong Ranges\. This picturesque gardens boasts enviable collection of rare and exotic plants and flowers\, set under the shelter of the massive Mountain Ash Trees\. **Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens** \- The gardens are known for their picturesque waterfalls\, water features and its iconic ornamental lake and boathouse\. **Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden** \- 36\-hectare garden with extensive paths past diverse plants\, trees & water features\, plus a cafe\. 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. Cost: Organizer Fee: $20 Public transport is free this weekend. 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. We have eight simple rules in place to protect our community and for everyone to have a positive experience. ❌ Not a dating group! – We’re here to make friends, not find soulmates. No flirty business, please! 📵 No phone numbers, please! – Feel free to swap social media if both parties are cool with it, but let’s keep our digits private. Please don’t add people to WhatsApp or other groups. 🔞 Our events are only open to people aged 18 and older. 📢 Please do not advertise other events or groups. 😅 Don’t be a social octopus! – Give people space to chat with others. Please don't be clingy. 🚗 We don't allow carpooling due to safety incidents/our public liability insurance not covering motor related accidents. 💰 No sales pitches! – No selling, no MLMs, no pyramid schemes, no “life-changing mentorship” offers—let’s keep things scam-free. 📸 Cameras welcome, but… – please refrain from taking photos of our members for privacy reasons. By joining this event, you’re giving us a virtual pinky promise 🤝 that you’ll follow the rules. Break them, and—poof!—you’re out for good. No second chances, no do-overs. Let’s keep it fun, friendly, and drama-free! **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/)

Take your doggos out for an afternoon of fun, socialising, and exploring as we wander down Johnston Street together. We’ll be making our way through some of Collingwood’s dog-friendly spots – from a stylish rooftop bar, to an Art Deco-inspired gem, and finally a warm, nostalgic tavern. Whether you’re discovering the neighbourhood for the first time or rediscovering an old favourite, it’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday with your pup. Total walking distance: just 700 metres. Ticketed event only, please book your tickets early at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/collingwood-puppy-pub-crawl-tickets-155644194977?aff=oddtdtcreator 1st Stop – Runner Up Rooftop Bar Perched above the iconic Collingwood Yards, Runner Up Rooftop Bar offers 270-degree views across Melbourne’s inner north. With its laidback, open-air vibe, this breezy rooftop is the perfect place to kick off the crawl. Behind the bar, expect sophisticated cocktails crafted with flair, a vibrant mix of red, white and orange wines, plus a thoughtful selection of spirits, each bringing unique depth and character. To make things even better, Chappy chips and dolmades will be served for human attendees – the ideal bite to pair with your first drink as the pups get ready for an afternoon of adventure. 2nd Stop – Night Hawks bar Our next stop takes us to Night Hawks, a chic Art Deco-lite fit-out bar with cool, easy-going vibes. They’ve reserved us a cosy spot in their back courtyard – the perfect place to mingle with fellow dog lovers while your pups relax. For the pooches: Willow’s Pantry grazing platters, featuring artisan dog cakes made without added sugar, using only certified organic, free-range, and natural ingredients. For the humans: enjoy $10 schooners of Nighthawks Draught, $10 Young Henry Cloudy ciders, $10 Louis dry cider cans – an exclusive offer just for our crew. 3rd Stop – Goldy’s! Tavern To wrap up the crawl, we’ll settle in at Goldy’s!, a traditional-style tavern tucked away in the back streets of Collingwood. With its warm and nostalgic atmosphere, this hidden gem has reserved us a spot in their undercover beer garden. For the pups: a doggie meal of the day, served alongside a decadent doggie cocktail. For the humans: hearty pub fare and a relaxed vibe – the perfect way to end the afternoon with your doggo and new friends, rounding off the crawl into a truly pawfect Sunday evening. 📝 Nitty Gritty Please keep all dogs on-lead while visiting Melbourne’s dog-friendly bars and pubs. Follow us for updates on future Puppy Pub Crawls and other dog-friendly events:📍 Facebook | 📸 Instagram: @crawlpuppypub Need a dog-friendly ride? Try Uber or Uber Pets – just bring a small blanket for your dog to sit on, and be sure to notify the driver before pickup.

**"TechWalking" - Networking + Walking** Are you a tech professional looking to network beyond the screen? Look no further than my upcoming #TechWalking event! ‍♀️ Join us for a refreshing walk around the scenic Albert Park Lake. It’s the perfect chance to connect with industry peers while getting in some steps! I know many of you have been tuning in to my online events, but we've never had the opportunity to meet in person. Let's change that! Check out the video from the last event: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/JOva9E3XYhE We'll kick things off at **10 am sharp** at the Albert Park Fitness Station. Please, don't be late! We're hitting the trail around the lake as soon as we gather. And trust me, you won't want to miss it – unless you're up for a bit of a sprint to catch up! (we're going anti-clockwise) This event is pet and kid-friendly, as long as your little ones and furry friends can manage a 5 km walk, they're more than welcome to join. Looking forward to meeting you all in real life! Join the TechWalking group on LinkedIn! [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14477058/) \*\*\* Follow me on LinkedIn for more information: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/) Just moved to Australia? Grab your FREE guide to land your tech job! [https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/](https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/) Subscribe to YouTube Channel: [https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia](https://www.youtube.com/@ITCareerinAustralia)

Start point: WE HAVE A NEW CAFE! **Truffles Patisserie** **192/194 Carlisle St, St Kilda, 3182** It's at the corner of Carlisle and Chapel St's. End point: Who knows? Distance: Approx 4 to 6km (each way) Estimated time: 60 to 90 minutes (stopping and starting).

**Who We are..... 🤝** Our journey to bring people together began in January of 2022. The group was started with a simple intention to gather and meet some likeminded people - connecting through the powerful act of meditation and sharing our genuine selves while sitting in a circle that represents equality, harmony and wholeness( *we believe everyone in the circle is a teacher and a student at the same time)*. And over the last 4 years of consistently coming together, we have fostered a beautiful, loving, dependable community where members from all walks of life have experienced a sacred space to sit in silence together and meditate, share their authentic selves, give presence to others and forge meaningful and long lasting connections. The Meditations are guided by Sana(co-founder and host), who is a Trained and certified meditation teacher by the Meditation Association of Australia, and has been guiding meditations for 3+ years in corporate and community settings. ✨ **Do you wish to....** * Experience a simple yet powerful meditation and breathing practice to find calm, relaxation and clarity * Connect with like-minded people in your local community and foster meaningful connections * Meet others who are passionate about growing, uplifting themselves, and supporting others * Share insights from your personal journey (or simply listen and learn) Or maybe you just want to... ☮️ **Spend your Sunday evening in a peaceful, zen space and meet new people? Bring a friend (or two!) and let’s connect.** **What’s on the evening’s flow?** * **Open meet & greet** – connect and settle in * **5 min guided meditation** to land into the space and connect within * **Sharing circle** (totally optional!) – share your thoughts or simply listen * **20-30 min guided meditation** – for relaxation and deeper connection **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).** **What to bring?** * **Donation:** A contribution of **$10 or more is recommended**. Your donations directly help us cover venue, meetup membership and other costs, provide valuable 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** **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. **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.

A gentle space to slow down and connect — Soulful Sundays is about real conversations, shared presence, and meaningful human connection. We meet in person for heart-to-heart conversations in a welcoming, respectful environment. This group is for those who value sincerity, depth, and mutual support. Conversations often explore life, purpose, growth, and the human experience — grounded, open, and real. If you’re looking to build authentic, lasting connections with like-minded people, you’re warmly welcome. Carlton Gardens, **Address:** 1-111 Carlton St, Carlton VIC 3053 **Where we meet: Royal Exhibition Building front steps.**

Ok let's do something interesting and different. Let's do a coffee crawl in Lygon Street Carlton. So half an hour at each venue except the final venue which is Brunetti Classico which is however long people like. So have a coffee (or hot chocolate or tea etc) at as many venues as you like and feel free to leave a comment in the comments section on your opinion of the best coffee for the day. And obviously option to have brunch or lunch at any venue you so desire. And option to come or go in any part of the coffee crawl you so desire. And I will book a table at venues I can though some will just be walk in. My (Andrew's) phone number is 0424453134 if anybody needs to contact me. So here's the schedule. 11AM Number 1: Good Measure (193 Lygon Street Carlton) 11.30AM Number 2: Beto Breakfast (254 Lygon Street Carlton) 12PM Number 3: University Cafe (257 Lygon Street Carlton) 12.30PM Number 4: Cyrus Artlounge (277 Lygon Street Carlton) 1PM Number 5: Heartattack and Vine (329 Lygon Street Carlton) 1.30PM Number 6: Brunetti's Classico Carlton (380 Lygon Street Carlton) Event cohosted by Martin Carr. So to get here catch either the trams (Numbers 1,3,5,6,16,64,67,72) up Swanston Street preferably from Melbourne Central or otherwise Flinders Street Station and just walk from the tram stop around corner of Grattan Street and Swanston Street for just 2 minutes to Lygon Street. Parkville Station likely a 5 minute walk to Lygon Street btw. Likely to be plenty of parking around the general area on a Sunday. PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT IS ON MULTIPLE GROUPS.

**🌿 First Meetup: Gentle Picnic at Malvern Gardens** Join us for our very first gathering—a relaxed, low-key picnic where you can connect, share, or simply be in good company. This is a safe, non-judgmental space for anyone living with chronic pain or invisible illness. **Agenda:** * Arrive, settle in, and get comfortable * Introductions (optional—just say hello if you prefer!) * Light conversation, sharing experiences, or quiet companionship * Optional gentle activities like short walks around the gardens **What to Bring:** * Something comfortable to sit on (blanket, mat, or chair) * Any snacks or drinks you’d like to share or enjoy * Layers/clothing for the weather * Yourself, exactly as you are—no need to bring anything else. Participate and much as you feel like on the day. * Board games or books, writing or drawing materials if you fancy. No pressure! **Finding the Group:** * Look for a small circle of blankets near the central lawn area * If you arrive early or have trouble finding us, call or text [organiser’s phone/email] * I'll be wearing a snow leopard print scarf..; ) Come as you are and enjoy a calm, supportive space where you can exhale, be seen, and connect with others who understand. ***

Join WQC on April 25th from 11am-1pm at Inniswood Metro Park for a Nature Photo Walk. All types of cameras welcome! Let's enjoy spring to the fullest... 🌻🌼🌷🐤

We'll meet at Wyandot Park, cross Riverside Dr at Lane Rd, then walk south along the water to Griggs Park and back — around 5 miles total. A scenic out-and-back route along the Scioto River. One of the nicer stretches of trail in Columbus. Parking is available at Wyandot Park, off Lane Rd. Here's an overview of the route on Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/uqweEoi6vcpY4esTA See you there.

[The Board Walks](http://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!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started — but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. 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?" 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. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *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. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this 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 welcome — please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). 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. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. 🤠👋 **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. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).

Over time I'm hoping to organize a hike to all the Franklin County Metro Parks. This is the first one so if you're interested jump in! We'll start with the Canopy Walk, a cool feature of this park. Climb 100 stairs to the top - or take the elevator if stairs aren't your thing. At the top there are a bunch of things to play on - a rope bridge, a fireman pole that we can slide down - and more! About fifteen minutes there and we'll head to the natural trail, Buttonbush, Maple and Beech Trail for 2.2 miles then do a 1.7 mile loop on the paved Greenway Trail. We'll be passing our cars as we transition if you only want to do the first loop, or the second loop. Pace of around 3.5 mph but no one left behind. If there is an interest we can grab lunch nearby afterward.