Nature

Start your day with calm, clarity, and connection. This is a **gentle walk** through Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens — ideal if you’ve been feeling stressed, disconnected, or just need a fresh start. We’ll move at a slow, mindful pace, take in nature, chat if we feel like it, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Route: https://walkingmaps.com.au/walk/3847 This isn’t a workout or a photography tour — though you’re welcome to take photos. It’s simply a **reset** — a way to feel human again, without pressure. **☕ Optional:** Coffee after the walk **🎒 Bring:** Comfy shoes, water, optional camera or journal **🧠 Mood:** Gentle, quiet, open to connection but no pressure to talk

🎉 **Saturday Morning Badminton Social – All Players Welcome!** 🎉 Looking for a fun and friendly way to start your Saturday? Join us at **ABC (Abbotsford Badminton Center) from 9am to 12pm** for our weekly badminton socials! 3 hours of fun for $25 We’re a welcoming group made up of **beginners, intermediate, and advanced players**, and we love seeing new faces on court. Whether you’re picking up a racquet for the first time or you’ve been playing for years, there’s a place for you here. ✅ All skill levels welcome – beginners, casual players, and seasoned shuttlers ✅ No pressure, just fun games and great people ✅ A chance to improve, connect, and enjoy the sport together Come rally, laugh, and meet some awesome people. Bring your racquet, your good vibes, and we’ll see you on Sunday! (And also badminton shoes) 🕘 **9am to 12pm** 📍 **ABC (Abbotsford Badminton Center)** Please RSVP your attendance via our Whatsapp Group Our WhatsApp Group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/GvezcsiIWGeDOfcxPHQIoR](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GvezcsiIWGeDOfcxPHQIoR)

Hi Radiant Ladies, Join us for a refreshing Saturday walk at Ruffey Lake Park. 👭 Walk at your own pace 🐕 Dogs welcome ☕ Coffee after 🌦️ We walk every Saturday (unless it’s pouring) New ladies welcome. See you! 
Leanne & Lyn 💕

Hi Radiant Ladies, After our Saturday walk, join us at Windchimes Café for coffee, friendly vibes, and a relaxed catch-up. 🅿️ 2-hour parking out front. See you there! Lyn 😀

**🚲 Eat Drink Dance Melbourne – Summer Social Cycle!** Saturday 3 January • 10.30 AM – approx. 2:00 PM Please be at the Ferris wheel at 10.15 AM. We will leave by 10.30 AM **Meet & finish at:** Love Café, South Wharf (next to the Skyline Ferris Wheel & Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre) Ready to roll into the new year with sunshine, good company, and Melbourne’s most iconic cycling loop? Join us for a 30 km social ride around the Capital City Trail—fun, flirty, relaxed, and absolutely not a race. Think of it as a moving summer hangout with wheels. **_### If you are considering coming on this event please ensure you read the group rules at the end_ ###** **🌞 What to Expect** - A chilled 3‑hour ride with rest breaks every 30–45 minutes - A friendly pace where conversation is encouraged and Lycra‑hero energy is optional - Plenty of time to snack, hydrate, laugh, and enjoy the long‑overdue warm weather (…it’s Melbourne, so fingers crossed) - A big scenic loop through the inner suburbs, leafy **riverside paths, and long stretches** along the Yarra - A gorgeous skyline moment on the return leg—one of the best views in the city **🚴 No Bike? No Problem** You can hire one just across the river at Blue Tongue Bikes in Batman Park. Easy. Feel free to bring an electric bike if you're lazy! ****🚲** What to bring****** Bike, water, bike lock, helmet, fun and smiley 👀 😉 **❤️ Start & Finish** We’ll meet at Love Café—because where better to kick off a flirty summer ride than a place literally called Love? After the loop, we’ll roll right back there to unwind, cool down, and enjoy a well‑earned drink together. **🎉 Vibe Check** This is relaxed exercise, not a time‑trial. It’s about sunshine, connection, movement, and a little playful summer energy. Come for the ride, stay for the people. **Group Rules and Event Etiquette** **Fitness Requirements**: This should be a moderate level of difficulty for most riders. Please ensure you can walk between 3 and 4km/hr and 200m vertically in an hour. If riding a consistent pace of around 10 to 15km/hr is great. We usually walk or ride at a relaxed pace but people have time constraints and it's not fair for people in the group to wait around for extended periods for you to catch up. Please go on easier events with the group if you are unsure. **People who walk/ride very fast and prefer being by themselves** This is a group activity and I can't manage the group if it splits up, please consider going by yourself or joining a faster group. **If people have time constraints** Best to give yourself some wiggle room, Things rarely go to time due to various factors especially in big groups. If you have very specific time goals and constraints it's best not to come. **+++VERY IMPORTANT+++** **People who do a No - Show**. This is unfortunately too common for the small group events, especially when we have people in a wait list wanting to come on the event. Remove yourself from the going list 24 hours before the event starts to give people on the waitlist an opportunity. **If you do a No Show you will be removed and blocked from the group**. If you remove yourself from the event an hour or two before the event you may also be blocked and removed from the group as this gives very little time and opportunity for people on the waitlist to prepare and is inherently unfair to people on the waitlist. Please communicate with me if you do not want to be blocked and removed from the group. **People who turn up without registering** This is a major security concern, **DO NOT DO THIS**.You will be asked to leave the event unless you have made arrangements with me **PRIOR** to the event. **People who are late** You will be left behind and or removed and blocked from the group as a No-Show. It is your responsibility to communicate with the organiser if you think you will be late, otherwise you will be blocked and removed from the group. It is up to you to catch up and or attempt to communicate with me.

Join us for a relaxed morning of community connection, light activity, and caring for the Maribyrnong River. **What to Expect:** We will walk along the riverbank and surrounds collecting litter, enjoying fresh air, gentle exercise, and friendly conversation. After the clean-up, we will head to Myrtle Café together for a coffee and chat. This is an optional part of the event, and all are welcome to join. **What to Bring:** * Drinking water * Sunscreen * Closed shoes * Gloves (optional – we also provide gloves if needed) We will supply rubbish bags, and have gloves, extra sunscreen, and hand sanitiser available. **Meeting Point:** We meet at Footscray Wharf, near Waterside Metal Art in Footscray. This location offers shelter and free parking on nearby streets. **Important Information:** Please check the exact meeting point before attending. If you need help finding us on the day, call 0418 184 457 or 0415 635 063. Our clean-ups take place once a month and continue in all weather, unless conditions are extreme. Please check the event page on the morning of the clean-up for any last-minute updates.

* 🌏 **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

Start your day with calm, clarity, and connection. This is a gentle walk through Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens — ideal if you’ve been feeling stressed, disconnected, or just need a fresh start. We’ll move at a mindful pace, take in nature, chat if we feel like it, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Route: https://walkingmaps.com.au/walk/3847 **☕ Optional:** Coffee after the walk **🎒 Bring:** Comfy shoes, water, optional camera **🧠 Mood:** Gentle, quiet, open to connection but no pressure to talk

## **⚽ Welcome to Street Football Culture** **📸 Instagram: [@streetfootballculture](https://www.instagram.com/streetfootballcult)** **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/share/19Vw4Xzbi5/?mibextid=wwXIfr **We’re a passionate community of street football Culture lovers who come together regularly to play, connect and celebrate the beautiful game. Our games are friendly, inclusive, and full of energy open to anyone, regardless of age, background, or skill level.** **🗓️ Weekly Game Details: Updated** **Join us for casual 6v6 futsal every Saturday night at Flagstaff Gardens Courts.** **📍 Location: 309–311 William St, West Melbourne VIC 3003** **🕓 Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM** **🏟️ Venue: Two side-by-side courts** **📢 Please arrive 10 minutes early to warm up and help set up teams.** ## **🎮 Match Format** **We’ll be forming four teams (A, B, C, D). Feel free to name your team if you're coming with a crew.** **Each team manages their own substitutions. Captains and vice-captains will coordinate things. If you're bringing your own squad, you’re welcome to stick together!** ### **🏆 Tonight's Game Schedule (Saturday)** **Match 1:** **🆚 Team A vs Team B** **🕖 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM** * **First Half: 25 mins** * **Half-Time: 5 mins** * **Second Half: 25 mins** * **Draw? Penalty Shootout (3–5 mins)** **Match 2:** **🆚 Team C vs Team D** **🕖 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM** * **Same format as Match 1** **Match 3: 3rd Place Playoff** **🆚 Losers of Match 1 vs Losers of Match 2** **🕗 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM** * **First Half: 25 mins** * **Half-Time: 5 mins** * **Second Half: 30 mins** * **Draw? Penalty Shootout** **Match 4: The Final** **🆚 Winners of Match 1 vs Winners of Match 2** **🕗 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM** * **Same format as Match 3** **Goalkeeper Rotation: Every player rotates into goal after a goal is conceded.** ## **👟 What to Bring** * **Footwear: Futsal shoes or runners only (artificial turf court)** * **Hydration: Water fountains available nearby** * **Toilets: Public restrooms close by courts (5-min walk)** ## **📢 Important Reminders** * **Participation is at your own risk. No insurance or on-site medical support is provided.** * **Respect the game. Respect each other.** * **Good vibes only — we value sportsmanship and inclusivity.** * **Celebrate everyone’s effort — win or lose, we’re one community.** ## **📲 How to Book Your Spot** https://forms.gle/f7W9kx1aQvJxDQzT8 **📱 WhatsApp: [https://whatsapp.com/](https://whatsapp.com/)** **📸 Instagram: [@streetfootballculture](https://www.instagram.com/streetfootballcult)** **Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/share/19Vw4Xzbi5/?mibextid=wwXIfr **🎟️ Fee: $10 per player** **💳 Payment Options:** * **PayID** * **Bank Transfer** * **After payment, please take a screenshot and Either: Send it to us Via Message, or show it to us at the court.** * **Refund Policy** * **Full refunds are only offered if the event is cancelled (e.g. due to poor weather).** * **If you need to cancel, please give us at least 4 hours’ notice.** **🔥 Let’s Play!** **We can’t wait to see you on the pitch for another amazing on Saturday of futsal.** **Let’s bring the energy, the passion, and above all — the heart.** **See you there!** **#streetfootballculture**

👉🏻 [GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE)](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1977234752370?aff=oddtdtcreator) 👈🏻 🗓️ Date: Sunday, 11 January 2026 📍 Location: Rosebud Beach (Approximately 1 hour & 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD on Sundays) 📏 Hike Distance: Around 15 km total 🕙 Start Time: 3:00 PM 🕔 End Time: 7:00 PM Sun sets at 8:35 PM 🚶‍♂️ Pace/Effort: Friendly and social / Easy. ⌛️ Average Hike Duration: 4–6 hours, depending on the group’s pace 💬 Community Chat Access: You'll be added to our private Instagram group chat after booking! **Optional Swim After the Hike 🌊** If you’d like to stick around after the hike, you’re welcome to stay for a relaxing swim 🏊 . We’ll be finishing close to sunset, so the weather is much gentler, and there’s less chance of getting sunburned. It’s a really peaceful way to end the day if you feel like it. Note: The swim is optional and not part of the official event. Looking to meet new people, explore nature, and have a good laugh along the way? This is your perfect Sunday plan! 🎉 We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Melbourne Social Hike. A welcoming day out where the focus is all about fun, friendships, and fresh air. Whether you come solo or bring a mate, you’ll leave with new connections and memories! 🤩 Why Join? 🌟 Make new friends — super easy, zero pressure 🌟 Enjoy nature and fresh air with great company 🌟 Friendly vibes — laughs, chats, and good times guaranteed 🌟 Your next hiking buddy might just become your next uni mate, housemate, or travel buddy! ✨ Best practice: Passengers should try to secure transportation before purchasing a ticket to avoid any last-minute stress. **Important Carpooling Note** Drivers and passengers should stick with the arrangements they make in the Transport Group Chat. We **do not recommend swapping drivers or cars** after you’ve agreed on a ride. If you do decide to change, please make sure **all parties are clearly informed and agree** to avoid confusion. If a driver forgets, gets mixed up, or doesn’t pick you up, Wilderness Seekers Victoria (and your driver) is **not liable** for any inconvenience caused. For this reason, it is best to keep things simple with the driver you first arranged with. In the transport chat, drivers will share their preferred pick-up locations, often major CBD train stations like Parliament, Richmond, South Yarra, Southern Cross, or North Melbourne. 🎟️ **Tickets:** **All tickets are now $20 per person.** This helps cover: * Public liability insurance * A $2.40 contribution per ticket directly to Parks Victoria * Experienced guides with a tour operator license who know the trails well * First aid kit and safety equipment for the group 🚗 **Carpoolers Discount** If you’re driving and offer seats to passengers, your ticket is only **$5** 🙌. 🥾 What to Bring: 👟 Comfy hiking shoes 💧 2–3L of water 🥪 Snacks/lunch ☀️ Sun protection (hat, sunnies, sunscreen) 🦟 Bug spray (always a good idea) 🎒 Optional: hiking poles, wet weather gear/raincoat 📸 How It Works: * After purchasing your ticket, you’ll receive a link to our private Instagram group chat. All final details will be shared there: Hike route, meet-up location, and any last-minute updates. * Friendly pace, friendly faces! This hike is intentionally medium, so anyone with some fitness can enjoy and chat along the way. Why Join Us? 🌱 Make new friends in a relaxed, casual way. 🌱 Enjoy nature while meeting people your age. 🌱 No pressure, just good vibes and real connections. 🌱 You never know. Today’s hiking buddy could be tomorrow’s uni mate, flatmate, or travel buddy! 🌱 Your safety is our priority. Equipped with a first aid kit on hand. 🍽️ Grab food after the hike (optional) ⚠️ Important: Must be 18+ years old to attend. Hike at your own risk. You are responsible for your own safety and belongings. Respectful, kind behaviour is a must. We are a positive and welcoming community. Zero tolerance for any unwelcome behaviour. We’re here to have fun, together! 📜 Liability Waiver: By joining this hike, you acknowledge that participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Wilderness Seekers Victoria is not liable for accidents, injuries, illnesses, theft, or transport-related issues. 🚑 If you have previous injuries, medical conditions, or health concerns, discuss with the organisers before purchasing your ticket. Transport/carpooling is a community initiative only, not a service. 👉 Please make sure to read our [Terms and Conditions (Click Here)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tUzOL94hk5Uk5c7FOjiPRHXZz--5H9p5/view?usp=drivesdk) before purchasing your ticket. Refund Policy: Tickets are non-refundable unless the event is cancelled or rescheduled. Tickets cannot be transferred to other events unless agreed with the organisers. 👉 Follow us on Instagram for updates and upcoming hikes: @wildseekvic 📞 Admin Contact: We highly encourage you to text our admin team before purchasing your ticket if you have any concerns about transport: Sebas 📱 0435 993 237 \| Jacob 📱 0404 870 123 🥳 Ready to make friends, explore Melbourne’s beautiful nature, and have a blast? Spots are limited, so grab your ticket now and let's hike, laugh, and connect! 🌿🎉

### **🚣‍♂️ 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!

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)

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.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Java Central Café and Roaster](https://javacentral.coffee/)**!**

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

**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.