Ocean Conservation

Location changed to Botanical Gardens! Weather looks reasonable good on Sunday. Participants are invited to join us for a walk and talk about science, philosophy and technology. There will be a humanist event in the Botanical Gardens afterwards. I believe parking is free far side of the botanical gardens ([near eastern gate B and Tecoma gate C](https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/interactive-map/)) - no longer free everywhere else. **Schedule** **10 am** – Meet outside the Botanic Gardens Visitors Centre (near the Melbourne Observatory Building and the Shrine of Remembrance) **10.30 am –** Venture into the gardens and walk around the outer walkway (anti-clockwise), eventually spiraling inwards towards the lake. **12.30** – Sit somewhere near the lake to have lunch, BYO (note the Terrace Cafe may be closed). **Possible topics:** – Moral realism - a stance independant moral ontology - useful for capturing non-arbitrary moral choice. – Moral anti-realism? – Can AI be fault tolerantly aligned to moral realism? can AI be aligned to fault tolerantly to anti-realism? – Is sentience required for moral reasoning? moral deliberation? Can sentience be a hindrance to moral reasoning? see AI beating humans at Moral Turing Test - [https://www.reddit.com/r/science/comments/1ci798x/gpt4_passes_moral_turing_test_after_a/](https://www.reddit.com/r/science/comments/1ci798x/gpt4_passes_moral_turing_test_after_a/) – AI Safety, automated persuasion, orthogonality thesis – ChatGPT, future directions in AI – How epistemics (inc science) makes progress – Health, wellness and how to live a good life – Metaethics / ethics – Moral progress and indirect normativity – Latest trends in AI – Economic impacts of AGI, automation, unbounded inequality – UBI - Basic income and universal wealth redistribution – Likelihood of future doom or utopia – Human augmentation, hacking human potential – AI interpretability – ChatGPT, Gemini, ClaudeAI – Automated persuasion, AI dark arts – Future directions in AI – Plato’s cave – Fun theory, value theory Nietzsche: "**All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.** From the process of creative self-discovery one emerges an artist. More often than not, our internal spiritual restoration is accompanied by a physical transformation." Sometimes philosophy discussions feel quite sedentary – hence our experiment to cross pollinate exercise and engaging discussions on philosophy. Exertion of both the mind and body at the same time may lead to a fascinating dynamic. A sedentary lifestyle (and by association, philosophy) has been linked to mental health concerns like depression, anxiety, and chronic stress. Ease the anxieties of the armchair philosopher engaging in mental gymnastics with minimal muscle movement – join our raggle-taggle crew of aspiring philosophers walking the talk! Healthy body, healthy mind! Note, bring elemental protection (umbrellas, sunscreen etc)

This is a relaxed, social meetup for anyone interested in practicing Korean or English — no teachers, no lessons, no pressure! We’ll just hang out, chat, and get to know each other while switching between Korean and English as much (or as little) as you like. Whether you’re a fluent speaker or just learning “안녕,” you’re welcome here. Bring good vibes, maybe a drink or snack, and let’s have some fun conversations together! Last attendees must arrive by 8:30pm!

[Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) Hello! This event is for people new to Australia who have not been to this location (International Students, Working Holiday Makers and tourists)! No evidence is required. I will trust you! This is my third Meetup group! My profile will show my other two groups. Why is the fee so low? Because this project is my community service to give back. I explain this further below. Over 60 road trips done in 4 years! Photos on Instagram link above. **\-\-\- ROAD TRIP SUMMARY AND ITINERARY \-\-\-** Day trip to Phillip Island. Phillip Island always feels so relaxed. Must be all that natural beauty combined with "island time"! This is a rain or shine event! The sights are always beautiful, no matter the weather! **Itinerary: Lookout before Phillip Island - enter Phillip Island - Pyramid Rocks - Nobbies Centre - Cowes - Berrys Beach - exit Phillip Island (you can swim at the beach or just walk/relax)** **Meeting point: Fed Square, 9 am**. Back there by **6:30 pm**. Meet by the steps (main entrance, opposite the Swanston Street tram stop). **\-\-\- PAYMENT \-\-\-** **Total fee: $20 in total (no other costs). This covers a new, large rental (SUV), fuel and driver.** **Eventbrite link for payment:** [https://phillip-island-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au](https://phillip-island-road-trip.eventbrite.com.au/) **Cancellations:** If I cancel the road trip for any unforeseen issues, a full refund will be given. If you cancel, there is no refund. **Why is the fee so low?** The low fee is just a formality. It might sound too good to be true or that there is a catch. There is no catch. I am simply someone who has been giving back for many years. I playfully call this project a “Melbourne travel secret”! There are people in this world who want to genuinely give back without any expectations because they are truly fulfilled and grateful for what they have. I am one of those people. This is my community service. I am not doing this for money and I never have. Money cannot buy passion. The nature of majestic Australia helped me find peace and passion and I want to give back by sharing that inspiring nature with people new to this country. If they are also inspired by that nature, then that is my reward. There is no hidden agenda in doing this project. The reason I am being quite upfront is because in this day and age, there is always a catch when people do something like this. There is none with me and I am not selling or promoting anything. I do not need anything because I have peace, passion and fulfilment. I have everything. I am truly humbled and grateful. Photos from road trips are on Instagram link below: [Instagram: Road Trips by The Dancing Voyager: Ron Singh](https://www.instagram.com/the_dancing_voyager_ron_trips) **\-\-\- RESPONSIBILITY\, LIABILITY\, SAFETY \-\-\-** As your driver, I am responsible and liable for your safety while we are in the vehicle. Passengers are insured as per the Australian law. For times we are outside the vehicle, we then become responsible for our own liability and safety, just like every other capable adult in society. **\-\-\- BREAKS/MEALS \-\-\-** There will be many breaks for sightseeing/walks. I will stop at places where food/snacks will be sold but you are welcome to bring your own as well. There will be a lunch break at either a cafe or takeaway shop. **\-\-\- WEATHER AND WHAT TO WEAR \-\-\-** Please see itinerary for location details and check the weather a few days before to dress accordingly. My advice is to always be prepared! Recommend to have something to cover you if there is rain or if winds suddenly get cool. Also recommend to carry sunscreen and a hat in case it does get sunny. Please also wear good, comfortable shoes that can provide protection from water (in case there are muddy areas). You can bring many things, as the vehicle will have a lot of storage space. My road trips do not have a lot of long walks. The focus is on sightseeing, relaxing and appreciating the beauty of nature. **\-\-\- CONTACT \-\-\-** If you need to contact me, please reach out through Meetup, Eventbrite or Instagram.

‼️Public transport is free on weekends during January‼️😄 For this event we will be going to Port Melbourne Beach 🏝️ Slap on your sunscreen, grab your beach gear and any art supplies you like. Look for the location in the event image. We will just be relaxing at the beach drawing together. If you aren’t sure what to draw the club has a weekly drawing theme, just ask me what the prompt is 😊 ✏️ We welcome all artists of any skill level or medium, Whether you’re a beginner or pro, traditional or digital, absolutely anyone can join. ⚠️IMPORTANT⚠️ Please do not attend if you are sick. I have multiple chronic illnesses so my immune system is extremely weak. keep everyone safe by staying home if you are unwell ☔️ If the weather changes I will move the event location —————————————————— Check out our instagram @shypeoplesdrawingclub to see more about our awesome group. We also have a Discord group for online events if you would like to join and chat with more artists. ✨

Hi there Join us for a lovely lunch at Trend Cafe in Southbank followed by a stroll through the botanic gardens in the city. There is also the possibility of not coming to lunch and just meeting us at the gardens directly. New members are more than welcome, we are a friendly bunch who are interested in friendship and exploring the realm of second wave humanism. Interested? Come and join the conversation! **12.30PM LUNCH AT TREND CAFE AND RESTAURANT, SOUTHBANK** [menu](https://trendcafeandrestaurant.com.au/menu/) **2.30PM STROLL THROUGH THE BOTANICAL GARDENS** After lunch we will go for a nice easy walk through the gardens. We will explore some of the 'Living Collections'. Check them out here and let us know what interests you: [botanic garden living collections](https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/melbourne-gardens/discover-melbourne-gardens/melbourne-gardens-living-collections/.) IF YOU'RE UNABLE TO ATTEND LUNCH, JUST COME AND MEET US AT THE BOTANIC GARDEN. WE WILL BE AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS VISITOR CENTRE AT 2.30PM. LET US KNOW IN COMMENTS WHAT YOU ARE INTENDING TO DO. If you can contribute a $5 fee for running costs that would be greatly appreciated. We look forward to seeing you for a summer celebration. Claudia and Jenny

## **Social Threads x Kismetrix** [(Ticked Event)](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/jan-18-understanding-social-connection-social-threads-x-kismetrix-tickets-1980147414220?aff=oddtdtcreator) ### **Understanding Social Connection** **📅 Sunday 18 January 2026** **⏰ 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM** **📍 RYVE, Level 1, 38 Shafton St, Huntingdale VIC 3166** **🍹 Light refreshments included** ### Feel more connected… without awkward small talk In a world of dating apps, surface-level conversations and busy lives, many people feel disconnected — even when they’re around others. **Understanding Social Connection** is a highly interactive, facilitated workshop designed to help you experience what real, meaningful connection actually feels like. This workshop is **facilitated by Social Threads** and **hosted by Kismetrix**. ### This is not a lecture **This is a guided, human experience** You won’t be sitting and listening. You’ll be: * having real conversations * meeting people one-to-one * learning about yourself * and feeling genuinely connected The workshop is designed around **conversation, not theory** — so instead of being talked at, you’ll take part in meaningful discussions and simple, practical exercises that show you how connection is built in real life. ### What you’ll explore Through guided activities and reflection, you’ll discover: * how genuine connection is formed * how emotional intelligence (EQ) shows up in relationships * how you come across when meeting new people * what makes others feel safe, seen and drawn to you You’ll rotate through **one-to-one partnered conversations**, allowing you to connect with a wide range of people in a relaxed, supported way. ### What you’ll leave with The session ends with a **facilitated group conversation** that brings together the insights, patterns and learnings from the room — giving you **practical tools you can use** in dating, friendships, work and everyday life. ### This workshop is for you if you: * feel tired of shallow conversations * want more meaningful relationships * feel awkward or unsure when meeting new people * are curious about how you relate to others * value emotional intelligence and personal growth You do **not** need to be single. You do **not** need to be outgoing. You just need to be open. ### Tickets - [BOOK HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/jan-18-understanding-social-connection-social-threads-x-kismetrix-tickets-1980147414220?aff=oddtdtcreator) 🎟 **Early Commitment** — $69 *(limited)* 🎟 **Standard / Last-Minute** — $99 Limited capacity to keep the space safe and high quality. Light refreshments included. ## **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways. 📧 **s[ocial@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:ocial@kismetrix.com.au "mailto:ocial@kismetrix.com.au")** 🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")** 📱 Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523") & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353")** 🤝 Collaborations: **[collabs@kismetrix.com.au](mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au "mailto:collabs@kismetrix.com.au")** 📄 **Important Notice:**By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/"),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/"),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/") and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/").Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions.

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

👉🏻 [GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE) ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1977239373191?aff=oddtdtcreator)👈🏻 🗓️ Date: Sunday, 18 January 2025 📍 Location: Sorrento Beach (Approximately 1 hour & 40 minutes from Melbourne CBD on Sundays) 📏 Hike Distance: Around 15 km total 🕙 Start Time: 2:45 PM. Please arrive at the hike/parking location (shared via the private Instagram group chat). This allows time for a quick ice breaker and, if available, a toilet break at the car park before we set off. The hike will begin promptly at 3:00 PM. 🕔 End Time: 6:30 PM 🚶‍♂️ Pace/Effort: Friendly and social / Easy. ⌛️ Average Hike Duration: 4–5 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. 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 adhere to the arrangements made 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 $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! 🌿🎉

This is our very first Evocean meetup—and it’s intentionally simple. Join us for a relaxed, welcoming gathering for women living with autoimmune conditions who are craving connection, understanding, and a calmer way forward. No pressure. No fixing. Just real conversation and community. We’ll spend time: • Meeting one another in a supportive, judgment-free space • Sharing why we’re here (only if you want to) • Learning a short, gentle nervous system reset you can use anytime • Setting the tone for what this community will become together This is not a medical talk or a support group focused on symptoms. It’s a space to reconnect with yourself and meet women who truly get it. Come exactly as you are. Energy levels welcome. Quiet observers welcome.

Our local amphibians and reptiles are both susceptible to habitat destruction and pollutants and can often be victims of being misunderstood. Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for an introductory look at our local amphibians and reptiles, what our citizens can do to help protect their habitats, and what related programs are available through Loudoun Wildlife to help monitor populations and increase community awareness of these often overlooked and fragile species. This presentation takes place at Rust Library and is co-sponsored by the Loudoun County Public Library and Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy.

Join Nextgen Birders for a fun-filled day of birding at **Lake Fairfax Park** followed by a board game session at the **Northern VA Bird Alliance (NVBA) HQ**! Feel free to join us for the **morning walk**, the **afternoon game session**, or **both**! ***Agenda:*** * **9:00 am - 11:00 am:** Birding around Lake Fairfax Park * **11:00 am - 1:00 pm:** Board games and trivia at NVBA HQ ***Morning Birding Detail*s** (Lake Fairfax Park) * **Meeting Spot:** Main parking lot (near the restrooms and playgrounds) * **Address:** 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA 20190 * **The Walk:** We will walk a portion of the trail along the lakeshore, looking for waterfowl and other birds of interest. * **Trail Note:** The trail includes both paved and unpaved sections. We highly recommend wearing **closed-toed shoes**. ***Afternoon Board Game Details (NVBA HQ)*** * **Location:** National Wildlife Federation Building (approx. 12 mins drive from the park) * **Address:** 11100 Wildlife Center Dr suite 100, Reston, VA 20190 * **Games:** We will have multiple sets of **Wingspan** as well as bird-themed **trivia** and more! * **Refreshments:** Light snacks and drinks will be provided. You are welcome to bring a festive treat to share! ***Additional FAQs:*** * **Parking:** Parking is **free** at both Lake Fairfax Park and the NVBA HQ. * **Metro:** The closest Metro stop is **Wiehle-Reston East** (Silver Line). Please note that both locations are a sizeable walk from the Metro, so taking an Uber or bus from the stop is likely the easiest option. We look forward to seeing you there!

Please join us every week for power networking! Our Chapter Passed $1,666,736 USD in the past 12 months! BNI members, on average, increase their business 20% the first year. Our chapter is a dynamic, committed group of business people who know how to refer business to each other. Come for our meeting -- stay for the referrals!!! We have open categories for individuals who will bring enthusiasm and integrity to our meeting. Just one person per professional specialty is allowed in each chapter. Visit a meeting to find out more and lock out your competition! Register Here: https://bninovanorth.com/va-nova-north-bni-mclean-business-connection--n136/en-US/visitorregistration?chapterId=16988

***Registration required at Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy -*** [Birding Algonkian - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-algonkian-january/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy on a search for birds at the Algonkian Regional Park in eastern Loudoun County. This bird walk takes place each month except December. With extensive frontage along the Potomac River, its rich bottomland forests, extensive wetlands and grassy areas combine to make it Loudoun’s top birding hotspot. Bring binoculars if you have them. We’ll meet at the boat ramp next to the parking lot.

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy registration at [Birding Gilbert’s Corner - Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://loudounwildlife.org/event/birding-gilberts-corner-january/) Join Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy for a bird walk at the relatively new [Gilbert’s Corner Regional Park](https://www.novaparks.com/parks/gilberts-corner-regional-park) in Aldie (see map below). With a combination of scrub, brush and meadow, this park is a great birding hotspot in southwestern Loudoun. *Limit 14. **Registration required.*** ***Questions:*** *Contact Joe Coleman at [jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org](mailto:jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org)*.