Nature

A relaxed Monday evening exploring the universe from the heart of Melbourne. We’ll begin with an **optional dinner** in South Melbourne, then head to the historic [Melbourne Observatory](https://maps.app.goo.gl/g4R1JhhnDR8ZFEUEA) precinct inside the Royal Botanic Gardens for **Stellar Nights**, hosted by the [Astronomical Society of Victoria](https://www.asv.org.au/Melbourne-Observatory). Stellar Nights is a guided astronomy experience that typically includes: * Telescope viewing (weather permitting) * Viewing through historic and modern telescopes * Short astronomy talks and explanations * A chance to ask questions and learn about what’s visible in the night sky This isn’t a light show or art installation — it’s real observational astronomy run by volunteers who genuinely love space. You’re welcome to join for dinner + the observatory night, or just the main event. **Plan** 5:30 pm – Meet outside **[Oishii Tokyo - South Melbourne](https://maps.app.goo.gl/MehtHSZwghPB7mAm7)** 5:45 pm - Casual seated dinner. Separate bills. 6:45 pm – Walk towards Melbourne Observatory 7:30 pm – Main event begins **Tickets** You’ll need your own ticket for this session. You can purchase it from here [https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/whats-on-melbourne/stellar-nights/](https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/whats-on-melbourne/stellar-nights/). I got my ticket for **$45**. **Important Notes** * Everyone must purchase their own Stellar Nights ticket in advance. * Telescope viewing depends on weather conditions. * Even if clouded out, the evening still includes talks and observatory access. * Dress warmly — you’ll likely be outside at times. * This involves light walking within the gardens. **Who This Is For** * People curious about astronomy and science * Anyone who enjoys calm, structured experiences * After-work social without loud venues or alcohol focus **Meeting point:** Meet outside [Oishii Tokyo - South Melbourne](https://maps.app.goo.gl/MehtHSZwghPB7mAm7) at **5:30pm**. I’ll post a photo of myself here once I arrive. If you’re running late, please message me your ETA beforehand.

Join Queer Meditation Melbourne for an evening of self-exploration and mindfulness in a safe and inclusive space. Start the event with a guided meditation session focused on promoting wellness, positive thinking, and spiritual growth. Connect with like-minded individuals from the LGBT community and enjoy meaningful conversations that nurture self-empowerment and consciousness. After the meditation practice, we will engage in social activities, promoting healthy living and dining out experiences. This event is designed for gay men and gay and lesbian friends who are looking to nurture their spiritual journey while building connections within the community. Come together to foster a sense of belonging and support each other in a space that celebrates diversity and self-care.

http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/4/e/1/600_434665825.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/6/4/f/3/600_434665843.jpeg FREE Fit Club @ Federation Square Get Active with a FREE Fun Group Circuit-Base Workout. Lose Body Fat, Gain Muscle and Have Fun! Suited for: Any level of fitness Meet positive & like minded people in a FUN and supportive environment! Where: Fed Square Amphitheater & River Terrance When: Tues 6pm-6:45pm Wed & Fri 7am-7:45am Optional $5 Recovery Nutrition and social time after the session Mindset and Nutrition workshop afterwards. It's FREE, it's FUN, Ask me how! For more information SMS or call 0450 023 682 Jimmy Adam Hoang to register your spot.

Join Jane outside Brighton Baths for a 1 hour return walk towards Elwood. Then relax with a coffee and chat if the Brighton Yacht Club is open Parking is free if you have a Bayside beach parking sticker. Otherwise try your luck for 2hr free parking in Chelsea or Grosvenor streets. In case you need it my mobile is 0401779137

A mix of dance classes, connections & laughter! We love offering a diverse range of moves to keep things fresh and exciting, and it’s always amazing to see our dance community connecting on and off the dance floor. It’s all about coming together, learning, and having fun! Brighton Beach Bowls Club 2B South Rd Brighton 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Foundation, Beginner & Intermediate levels $25 CASH or PAYID

Get outside and join us for a day of planting trees, shrubs and ground cover on this beautiful property in the Yarra Valley. Your hosts need help planting seedlings to protect waterways, improve ecosystems and create habitat for wildlife. No experience required - we will train you on the day. Morning tea and lunch are provided for free. You'll meet friendly, like-minded people, and return home knowing that you've done something meaningful. You'll need your own transport, approximately one hour's drive from Melbourne CBD. [More info and registration details](https://events.humanitix.com/help-plant-native-seedlings-at-dixons-creek_link) TreeProject is a not-for-profit organisation that has been growing and planting native seedlings for farmers and Landcare groups for over 30 years. We have grown over 2 million trees! This year alone we are growing over 150,000 trees, and helping landowners plant about 50,000 trees! Come and join us!

✨ I invite you to a special evening born from silence, harmony, and love for music - 🎶 **Music needs no translation — it speaks in the voice of the heart, even when the world falls silent.** In times like these, it feels more important than ever to keep listening — and to truly hear. There is music that sounds beautiful. And there is music that has lived through history. A few things to know before concert [Harmony Bridge: Ukraine–Australia. With Ukraine in the Heart](https://www.facebook.com/events/2444840435976414/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZaiWrl7AdRwZQkjTd5wGfL8ETUtwOtQ-Vs6ndJuTGBF4OQKRYH77tMtTDzcyw3EHXVl4xMPwNZojzfo46Yup3h-uXx0EwfWoNgd7GbYPjS4yrECQtadB0kiBCI2bKc_9g231u4mbqYqrPbl4OR00vgWc_ZCZbDtBlaGjIlM3h32MeJNHU9PZBEblMXgfOq-nfSlsitlkxwwV_qAnY62q43f&__tn__=-UK-R): A string quartet is a form where nothing can be hidden — every sound is exposed, every emotion is real. That is why composers entrusted it with their most personal thoughts. Ukrainian chamber music was often created in difficult times — becoming a way to preserve what could not be spoken aloud. Some of the melodies you will hear were written over a century ago, yet they still resonate as if they were created today. A quartet is always a conversation. Between instruments. Between composer and listener. Between past and present. On 3 May, this conversation will come to life. * **🗓 Sunday, 3 May 2026 – 3:00 PM** **⏰ Doors open 2:00 PM** **📍 Ukrainian House, 3–11 Russell Street, Essendon VIC 3040** * 🎟️ **Tickets:** [https://www.trybooking.com/DKDFH](https://www.trybooking.com/DKDFH?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExODEzeTdTWlV4bUV4dzRzdHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR71eSdmD05pJ_PtDBCBCw1OTw2dzJJfSzLjIxC2q84asDiDVz-nklmP5Kx6bA_aem_3ipqV8ZEvf1tktRE_kI40Q) * or cash at the doors **TICKETS** $35 – GENERAL ADMISSION $45 – CONCESSION STUDENT \| PENSIONER \| UNEMPLOYED All proceeds will support **Harmony Bridge: Ukraine–Australia**, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting Ukrainian music and arts in Australia. 🌿 Music that stays with you long after the final note.

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → NOOJEE** 🏙️ * 📅 SUN **3 MAY, DAY TRIP ☀️** * ✨ Travel far enough to feel both adventure and calm. ✨ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Escape the city and join us for a beautifully balanced day in nature — where everything is taken care of, and all you need to do is arrive, breathe, and enjoy. From the moment we leave Melbourne, the rhythm begins to slow. The road opens into rolling Gippsland hills, forests deepen, and the air shifts — fresher, softer, calmer. In **Noojee**, we ease into a **gentle, scenic hike** through tall trees and peaceful trails, moving at a comfortable pace with space to connect, unwind, and simply be present. After the walk, we gather for a **relaxed picnic with a fresh fruit platter, snacks, and drinks — all included**. A moment to share, recharge, and enjoy nature together. The afternoon flows into a **quiet riverside experience** — a short walk through town brings us to the water, where we pause for a **guided meditation and grounding session**, surrounded by stillness. We continue with a scenic drive through the countryside, stopping at a **beautiful lookout** for views across the rolling hills, before finishing the day with a visit to a **local sculpture gallery** — adding a creative and cultural touch. No planning. No stress. Just a smooth, meaningful day of nature, movement, and connection. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🎒 **All-Inclusive Experience — $99** ✅ Comfortable **Mercedes minivan transport** 🚐 ✅ Guided **10 km scenic hike** + gear support 🥾 ✅ Meditation & grounding session 🌿 ✅ Fresh **fruit platter picnic** 🍉 ✅ Unlimited **snacks,** soft drinks, coffee & tea ☕ ✅ Scenic lookouts & curated itineraries 🌄 ✅ Friendly, welcoming group atmosphere \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- #### 🕒 Itinerary: 🌅 **07:00 — Pick-up from Melbourne CBD (St Paul’s Cathedral)** ⛽ **07:30 — Stop break** 🌿 **09:00 — Arrival in Noojee** ☕ Morning tea / coffee / snacks *(all included)* 🥾 **09:15 — Easy Scenic Hike** • \~10 km \| \~170 m elevation • Comfortable pace, forest & views 🍉 **13:00 — Picnic Lunch** • Fruit platter + snacks + drinks *(all included)* 🌊 **14:00 — River Walk + Meditation** • Gentle walk through town • Guided grounding session by the water 🌄 **15:00 — Lookout Stop** • Scenic views across Gippsland hills 🎨 **15:30 — Sculpture Gallery Visit** 🚐 **18:00 — Return to Melbourne CBD** 📍 Drop-off: Hamer Hall \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** NOO 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**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! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **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 Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \*\*\*Where Relaxation Meets Adventure **\*\*\*** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **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 sound, light, and movement. Enchanting Kirtan is a live sacred-music experience blending ancient mantra, soaring melody, rhythmic grooves, and heart-centred meditation. The music wraps around you in rich, immersive surround sound, carrying every note and vibration through the room like a living wave. Giant floor-to-ceiling visuals wrap the space in colour and movement, while candlelight, soft rugs, and cushions invite you to sink in, stretch out, or move freely. Every detail is designed to draw you fully into the experience—body, heart, and mind. The evening unfolds as a flowing sacred sound journey, moving from gentle breath and stillness into joyful singing and free, natural movement. Some come to sing or dance, others to rest and receive. Feel free to move, sing and dance, riding the waves of transcendental sound. Or simply relax, letting the waves wash over you. Come solo or bring friends and family. Everyone is welcome to step into this beautiful, heart-opening world that leaves you feeling uplifted, connected, and glowing from the inside out. Spaces are limited - book now to be part of this unforgettable evening. **Enchanting Kirtan: Sacred World Music & Meditation Experience** **Friday 1st May 7pm - 9pm** **Darebin Arts Centre: 401 Bell St, Preston** **Free community event \| All welcome \| Donations appreciated** **We're running 3 immersive events in Victoria! Check them out here: [https://collections.humanitix.com/enchanting-kirtan-victoria-tour](https://collections.humanitix.com/enchanting-kirtan-victoria-tour)** Enchanting Kirtan is a free community event run by volunteers - a gift of music, meditation, and connection. Donations are welcome to help us share sacred sound with more communities across Australia.

Join me for a relaxed walk along the Frankston Foreshore and through the beautiful Sweetwater Creek Reserve with its bushland, birdlife, cascades and granite outcrops. We can enjoy moving and chatting together as we follow the coastal path through the sand dunes, beside the water's edge and out along the historic Frankston Pier. We'll stroll along the boardwalk through a beautifully restored native habitat before making our way up to Oliver's Hill lookout to take in the expansive views across the bay. This is an ideal opportunity for photography and locating landmarks in the distance. We'll have time to enjoy a coffee and conversation by the water. **Agenda** I will meet you at 10am out the front of Waves on the Beach Restaurant at the end of Wells Street. We'll set off at 10.15am and follow the path through the foreshore reserve and out along the Frankston Pier. From there we'll join the boardwalk and then head up to Oliver's Hill Lookout. We'll take a break at the Little Olly's coffee van for a drink and a snack or you may like to bring your own. After that we'll explore the Sweetwater Creek Nature Reserve before making our way back to the starting point. This is an easy to moderate walk along the foreshore trail with a steep section up Oliver's Hill and some steeper stairs in the Sweetwater Creek Reserve. The distance will be about 8km all up and the walking time is around 2.5 hours. **Location** Frankston is located 54km south-east of the Melbourne CBD The train ride from Melbourne to Frankston is about 1 hour and 7 minutes. It's a 10 minute walk from Frankston Station down Wells Street to the Waves Restaurant. If you are coming by car it takes around 50 minutes from Melbourne. There is free street parking on Nepean Highway, Wells Street and Gould Street. Parking spots outside Waves Restaurant are limited to 2 hours. When you RSVP, please click Attend on the event page and I will be in touch via Direct Messages. I will also be available in the Event Comments on the day.

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 💕

Nature Printing with Gelli Plate Thursday May 21, 2026 Join local artist Diana Andrews to explore the process of gelli plates. This hands-on, creative experience is suitable for all skill levels, focusing on creating unique monoprints without a traditional printing press. All materials will be provided, but participants are asked to bring additional leaves. Class Fee - $30 6PM - 8PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park Register and pay here: [https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/269/May-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/269/May-2026)

Art in the Park: DIY Garden Mosaic Stepping Stone Saturday, May 30, 2026 In this fun hands-on workshop, let your creativity flow as you design and craft your own mosaic stepping stone, perfect for adding a personal touch to your outdoor space! You will use concrete, colorful tiles, and your imagination to create a unique piece of garden art. No experience needed! We will provide the concrete, molds, tiles, and some inspiration patterns. If you have any ceramic pieces, glass, or stones of your own that you would like to add to your mosaic, feel free to bring them, but we will also have plenty on hand. Your mosaic stepping stone will need to set and dry, so we will create them on this day and you will pick yours up within the next week. * Ages 16+. * Registration required by May 26. * Yard ReWild discount applies. Class Fee: $20 1PM - 3PM Location: Shelter 6, Infirmary Mound Park Register here [https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/269/May-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/269/May-2026)

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens Free Communal Garden Class Series GROWING MUSHROOMS In this class, we will discuss how to raise mushrooms on logs outdoors as a way to raise food in parts of your yard that are usually too shady to grow vegetables or other crops. We will discuss what mushroom species can be cultivated, what tree species they can grow on, and demonstrate how to prepare and inoculate the logs. By following these steps, you can have your own bountiful mushroom harvest! APRIL 27 | 6:00-7:30 PM | WELLS BARN 1851 E BROAD ST, COLUMBUS, OH 43205 INSTRUCTOR: MARC AMANTE Mare Amante is an Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator with Central State University who is also currently serving as CSU Extension's Agriculture and Natural Resources Interim Program Leader. He has worked on and managed diversified vegetable farms across the Midwest and currently owns and operates an urban farm here in Ohio where he raises microgreens, vegetables, raspberries, and log-grown mushrooms for sale to local markets and restaurants. Registerefor free here https://www.fpconservatory.org/events/cg-growing-mushrooms/

This Monday 4/27/26 at 6:30p we will walking at Thompson Park. The address is 5600 Thompson Rd. We will meet at the shelter house. The walk will be approximately 2 miles on paved trails~Join us if you can.

**Pagans on the Patio! Summer/Fall Series** A casual gathering the first Thursday of each month. Time to relax, meet new people, and reconnect with old friends. There is no charge for the event itself and all are welcome but there are a few guidelines: 1. **You are expected to purchase food and/or drink to compensate the Cantina and our server.** 2. **No soliciting. Do not bring samples of your wares or brochures of your services.** 3. **Please respect the spiritual and political views of others that are present. No disruption of the peace.** In case of inclement weather, we will find seating indoors. I hope to see you there. Blessed be! \~ Cynthia ❤️---

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. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."