Oculus Rift

Ever wondered how humanity would respond to an asteroid heading for Earth? Or how the world might react to first contact with aliens? Welcome to **The Thought Experiment** — a new kind of meetup where we explore big *“What if…?”* scenarios in a fun but thoughtful way. Each session, we’ll pick one scenario (from global crises to wild sci-fi situations) and work together to imagine solutions, strategies, and possibilities. This is for **curious minds of all kinds** — students, professionals, creatives, or anyone who enjoys thinking differently. Some people might bring research, others just bring imagination. Either way, we’ll brainstorm together and see where the discussion takes us. [Thought Experiment Site](https://thoughtexperiment.au/) **We ask everyone to Buy a drink at the venue** **You Need to have Conversational English.** **This is a 3PM start event.** **Format:** * Quick intro to the scenario * Small-group discussions * Share back with the group * Wrap up + (optional) post-discussion drinks For our first meetup, we’ll introduce the format, get to know each other, and jump into a scenario together. ***Story Arc: Cosmic Dread*** Keywords: *Generational Ship, Nature* **Scenario: Remember Me** The launch was flawless. The systems are stable. The mission is progressing. The crew remains calm. All readings align with the original departure data. After months in deep space, nothing appears out of place. Except for one detail. Every star we pass looks strangely familiar. Saturday 3–5 PM Oxford Scholar. A small group. Big imagination. No right answers. Just curiosity, debate and fun.

Ever wondered how humanity would respond to an asteroid heading for Earth? Or how the world might react to first contact with aliens? Welcome to **The Thought Experiment** — a new kind of meetup where we explore big *“What if…?”* scenarios in a fun but thoughtful way. Each session, we’ll pick one scenario (from global crises to wild sci-fi situations) and work together to imagine solutions, strategies, and possibilities. This is for **curious minds of all kinds** — students, professionals, creatives, or anyone who enjoys thinking differently. Some people might bring research, others just bring imagination. Either way, we’ll brainstorm together and see where the discussion takes us. [Thought Experiment Site](https://thoughtexperiment.au/) **We ask everyone to Buy a drink at the venue** **You Need to have Conversational English.** **This is a 3PM start event.** **Format:** * Quick intro to the scenario * Small-group discussions * Share back with the group * Wrap up + (optional) post-discussion drinks For our first meetup, we’ll introduce the format, get to know each other, and jump into a scenario together. ***Story Arc: Cosmic Dread*** Keywords: *Generational Ship, Nature* **Scenario: Remember Me** The launch was flawless. The systems are stable. The mission is progressing. The crew remains calm. All readings align with the original departure data. After months in deep space, nothing appears out of place. Except for one detail. Every star we pass looks strangely familiar. Saturday 3–5 PM Oxford Scholar. A small group. Big imagination. No right answers. Just curiosity, debate and fun.

Join us for some games of (Japanese) Riichi Mahjong at Good Games Box Hill. We welcome beginners and seasoned players alike; let us know ahead of time if you are a beginner. We play with WRC rules with red fives. Please see the following website for more information regarding rules ([https://www.worldriichi.org/wrc-rules](https://www.worldriichi.org/wrc-rules)). Games are timed at 75 minutes + 1 additional hand and scores are tracked on https://scores.vicriichi.org/. Have the best 10 consecutive games between 1 February 2026 and 30 April 2026 to earn a $50 gift card to spend at Good Games! Entry fee: $5. If paying by cash, please pay at the counter. This money is used to pay for our use of the store space, maintaining equipment and other meetup services, and organising larger events open to everyone! Please change your RSVP to not going if you're no longer able to attend. This will give the next person on the waitlist the opportunity to attend. There is free parking available in the Care Park on Watts St next to the store. Want to support Victorian Riichi Mahjong and receive exclusive benefits? Then become an official member! For $30/year, members receive an extensive benefits package that includes: -Eligibility to discuss and vote on Club matters during live Club meetings, and to vote and run for Leadership Officer positions. -Complimentary Vic Riichi merchandise every membership year. -Early access and discounted entry fees for events and tournaments. -Mahjong coaching, workshops, study sessions, and online log reviews. -Access to exclusive members-only merchandise and events. -Access to meetup benefits such as discounted loyalty cards. Please see [here](https://www.vicriichi.org/membership) for more info! If you would like to connect with other Victorian/Australian Riichi Mahjong players online, check out our website, [https://www.vicriichi.org](https://www.vicriichi.org), and join the [Victorian Riichi Mahjong Association (VRMA)](https://vicriichi.org/discord) and [Australian Riichi Mahjong Association (ARMA)](https://discord.gg/m8rYv4fS4F) Discord groups!

## *Practising Extroversion the Neurodivergent Way* ## 🌟 From **Small Talk → Real Talk** Do you want to be more social but without forcing yourself to be loud, performative, or overwhelmed? Do you want to feel confident starting conversations in groups or crowds… **and** know how to gently take them somewhere meaningful when the moment is right? This session is a **practice lab** for exactly that. *** ## 💬 **What This Session Is About** Many neurodivergent people actually enjoy connection, but struggle with the *starting*, the *spontaneity*, and the *surface-level phase* of conversations. This workshop helps you practise: * starting light, surface-level conversations * building courage to speak to new people * rotating through conversations with ease * and learning how (and when) to guide a chat from small talk into something more engaging and meaningful All while **honouring your nervous system**, your need for processing time, and your personal boundaries. You don’t need to become a “social butterfly” …but you *can* become socially confident, relaxed, and deeply appreciated for who you are. *** ## 🧠 **Why Surface Talk Matters (Yes, Really)** Small talk isn’t the enemy, it’s the *bridge*. Weather, study, work, hobbies… these are entry points. When you know how to use them skillfully, they become doorways into richer conversation. We’ll practise how to: * respond with curiosity instead of pressure * notice which threads are worth pulling * ask follow-up questions that invite meaning * and sense when someone is open to going deeper The *right* people will appreciate this often more than you expect. ✨ *** ## 🔄 **How the Session Runs** The session is structured, flexible, and supportive: * Short teaching segments (clear, simple, practical) * 20-minute practice blocks with different drills * Quick rotations so you experience variety and spontaneity * Optional participation, nothing is compulsory * Live feedback and adaptation based on how the group is feeling * Space for pauses, grounding, and regulation as needed You’ll practise both: * **starting conversations**, and * **deepening them gently and appropriately** *** ## 🌱 **What You’ll Practise** * Initiating conversations without overthinking * Being socially present without masking * Bridging from surface topics into meaning * Sharing a little more of yourself, safely and wisely * Reading social energy and pacing yourself * Honouring when you need space, silence, or rest *** ## 👋 **A Note From the Facilitator** I’m an autistic, neurodivergent coach and this was once *extremely hard* for me. Through years of lived experience, recruitment work, interviewing, dating, friendship-building, and formal coaching training, I’ve learned how to make social connection **a skill and habit**, not a vague personality quirk that people can't replicate. This session is about practising that skill together, so it becomes something your body knows how to do — not something you have to force. *** ## 📝 **Before & After** You’ll be invited (optionally) to share: * what feels hardest about socialising in groups * where surface-level conversations tend to stall * what you want more confidence with And at the end, you’ll be invited to give feedback so future sessions can be shaped around what you actually need.

**💗 First Timer Friendly Speed Dating – Connect Online, Feel at Home!** **🚨 ATTENTION: RSVPing Here Will NOT Reserve Your Spot!** You need to click the registration link for your age group below, register, and complete the personality quiz to be entered. **Spots fill up quickly** – act now to secure yours! **✅ Step 1: Find Your Age Group & Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 🌈 **Looking for genuine connections?** This event was made for you! Our online speed dating events are specifically designed with first-timers in mind. Every conversation is guided, every interaction is comfortable, and you never have to leave your home. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Anyone looking for a fun, structured way to meet new people - Anyone anxious about crowded bars or in-person meetups - Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment - First-timers who want to date without the pressure of face-to-face meetings ⭐ *"The online format was perfect for me. I felt comfortable and had a blast!"* – Geelong single **How It Works** 1. **Register for Your Age Group** – Choose the session that matches your age range above and complete registration. 2. **Complete the Personality Quiz** – We'll match you with compatible Geelong singles for the best experience. 3. **Go Live** – Enter the Zoom room, meet your host, and get ready for a great night. 4. **Start Chatting** – Short, timed conversations with compatible Geelong singles. No awkward silences! 5. **Match Results** – Find out who you clicked with. If the feeling is mutual, we connect you! **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom-based experience – connect from the comfort of your own home - **Location:** Your favourite spot at home – slippers optional, charm required - **Host:** Warm, professional host dedicated to making everyone comfortable - **Vibe:** Warm, genuine conversations with Geelong locals who are looking for real connection --- ✨ Online speed dating perfect for first-timers – meet local singles from the comfort of home. Join us! 💓 ✨

**💝 Your First Speed Date Starts Here – Online, Easy & Pressure-Free!** **🔴 IMPORTANT NOTICE: RSVP ≠ Guaranteed Entry!** You must register via your age group link below AND complete the personality quiz. This is required to participate. **Limited spots** – register immediately to avoid missing out! **📌 Register for Your Age Group Here:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 💡 **Curious about speed dating but nervous?** We've got you! Whether you've never speed dated or you've never even been on a proper date, this event is for you. Our friendly format and experienced hosts make everyone feel welcome from minute one. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Anyone who believes great chemistry starts with great conversation - Singles who feel more comfortable meeting from home first - Anyone looking for a fun, structured way to meet new people - Remote workers who love the convenience of online meetups - First-time speed daters ready to try something new **Event Details** - **Format:** Interactive Zoom event – feel like you're in the same room - **Location:** Your personal space – the most comfortable date venue ever - **Host:** Charismatic host who keeps the energy positive and the nerves low - **Vibe:** Comfortable chats with East Melbourne singles in a supportive, beginner-friendly environment - **Atmosphere:** Positive, inclusive, and judgement-free - **Matches:** Mutual matches revealed after the event - **Support:** Our host is available before, during, and after the event - **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good! **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Complete the Personality Quiz** – We'll match you with compatible East Melbourne singles for the best experience. 3. **Log In & Relax** – Join the Zoom call and let the fun begin. Your host handles the logistics! 4. **The Fun Part** – Rotate through rounds of lively chats with pre-matched East Melbourne singles. 5. **Connect After the Event** – Mutual matches are shared so you can continue the conversation. 💡 **Remember:** Everyone is here to have fun. Relax, be curious, and enjoy the ride! **Frequently Asked Questions** **What if I'm shy or introverted?** You're in the right place! The online format and guided conversations make it easy and comfortable for everyone. **How long are the conversations?** Each round is a few minutes – long enough to feel a connection, short enough to keep things exciting! **What if I don't match with anyone?** That's okay! Many people attend multiple events before finding their match. Each event is a new opportunity. --- ✨ Your comfort zone is your superpower. Speed date from home and meet someone incredible! 💘 ✨

**💓 Geelong Online Speed Dating – A Guided, First-Timer-Friendly Experience!** **🔴 IMPORTANT NOTICE: RSVP ≠ Guaranteed Entry!** You must register via your age group link below AND complete the personality quiz. This is required to participate. **Limited spots** – register immediately to avoid missing out! **✅ Step 1: Find Your Age Group & Register:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=diamond-dust-love-constellation&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=diamond-dust-love-constellation&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=diamond-dust-love-constellation&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=diamond-dust-love-constellation&ar=55+&face_v=2.0) --- 😎 **Skip the awkward bar approach.** Try guided online speed dating! Whether you've never speed dated or you've never even been on a proper date, this event is for you. Our friendly format and experienced hosts make everyone feel welcome from minute one. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - First-time speed daters ready to try something new - Busy professionals who value their time and comfort - Singles looking for genuine connections beyond dating apps **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual via Zoom – structured rounds in a warm, friendly setting - **Location:** Wherever you're most relaxed – that's your venue tonight - **Host:** Charismatic host who keeps the energy positive and the nerves low - **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Geelong singles – fun and easy - **Matches:** Mutual matches revealed after the event - **Privacy:** Your contact info is never shared without mutual consent - **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good! **How It Works** 1. **Sign Up** – Click the registration link for your age bracket above. 2. **Complete Your Profile Quiz** – A quick questionnaire so we can find your best matches. 3. **Show Up on Zoom** – Grab a drink, get comfortable, and let the host guide you through each round. 4. **Start Chatting** – Short, timed conversations with compatible Geelong singles. No awkward silences! 5. **Discover Your Matches** – We'll notify you of any mutual interest after the event. The rest is up to you! 💡 **Helpful hint:** Prepare 2-3 fun questions to ask – it keeps conversations flowing naturally. **Frequently Asked Questions** **What if I'm shy or introverted?** You're in the right place! The online format and guided conversations make it easy and comfortable for everyone. **Is my information private?** Absolutely. Your contact details are never shared without mutual consent. **What's the personality quiz for?** It helps us match you with compatible people so your conversations are more likely to click! **Can I attend from my phone?** Yes! Zoom works on any device, though a laptop or tablet gives the best experience. --- ✨ Real people, real conversations, real connections – all from your living room. 🌹 ✨

**💓 Speed Dating Reimagined – Online, Relaxed & Perfect for Beginners!** **⚠️ PLEASE READ: Simply RSVPing Will Not Secure Your Spot!** To join this event, click your age group registration link below, sign up, and complete the short personality quiz. **Capacity is strictly limited** – don't delay! **🎯 Select Your Age Group & Register Now:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=18-32&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=30-46&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=40-58&face_v=3.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=360.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=roaming-star-love-galaxy&ar=55+&face_v=3.0) --- 😌 **Dating shouldn't feel stressful.** That's why we made this event! We built this event for people who are tired of apps but not ready for crowded mixers. It's the sweet spot – online, intimate, guided, and full of genuine Melbourne singles looking for real connections. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - First-time speed daters ready to try something new - People returning to dating after a break who want a gentle start - Singles looking for genuine connections beyond dating apps - Singles who feel more comfortable meeting from home first **How It Works** 1. **Claim Your Spot** – Choose your age range and complete the sign-up process. 2. **Complete the Personality Quiz** – We'll match you with compatible Melbourne singles for the best experience. 3. **Hop on Zoom** – Your host will welcome you and walk you through everything. 4. **Enjoy the Conversations** – Each round is timed and guided so every chat feels natural and fun. 5. **See Who Liked You Back** – Mutual matches sent to your inbox. Your next chapter begins! **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom video event – interactive, personal, and welcoming - **Location:** Wherever you're most relaxed – that's your venue tonight - **Host:** Your personal guide through the evening – friendly, encouraging, and fun - **Vibe:** Low-pressure connections with welcoming Melbourne singles – fun and easy - **Rounds:** Multiple short rounds so you meet plenty of people - **Tech:** All you need is Zoom, a webcam, and a smile - **Icebreakers:** Fun prompts provided to keep conversations flowing ⭐ *"10/10 would do again. The host was amazing and I actually had fun dating!"* – Melbourne first-timer **Frequently Asked Questions** **Do I need to download anything?** Just Zoom! If you've used Zoom before, you're all set. We'll send you the link after registration. **What if my internet drops?** No worries – our host will help you reconnect. Technical hiccups happen and we're prepared for them! --- ✨ Your next great connection could be one Zoom call away. Don't overthink it – just show up! 💗 ✨

Please join us this Sunday as we discuss work, labour, machines and the good life. Ilya will be leading this session. It's a big topic and we are likely to continue talking about it next Sunday. **We will meet at the Queensberry Hotel, 593 Swanston Street, Carlton (100m north of previous location) at 2pm for a 2:15pm start sharp.** **We kindly ask attendees to pay $5 to attend to help with MeetUp costs & venue costs. This is not mandatory, but if you are a regular member it would be appreciated. Any extra moneys will go towards buying food and drinks for the table. The venue also expects us to spend money as a group, so grateful if everyone could buy a drink from the venue.** There is no pre-requisite preparation necessary, nor a philosophical background, all that is required is a curious mind. These discussions are both a Socrates Cafe style discussion and lively metaphysical dojo, in the spirit of learning and friendly debate, so please feel free to challenge assumptions and be prepared to have your own assumptions challenged. Find below some questions to consider, however these are free-ranging events and the below serve as a springboard for the discussion: **Why we work** 1\. If there was no economic necessity – would you still choose to work? 2\. Would you do similar work to what you currently do or something else? 3\. What is “work” as opposed to leisure or other activity? 4\. Is doing work essential to living a ‘Good Life’? 5\. Do you feel guilty when not working? 6\. Is becoming competent at a profession important for identity formation? **Paradox of productivity** 7\. Why is it that no matter how much the economy is industrialised and automated\, there have always been enough new jobs created to keep unemployment low? 8\. In 1930\, the prominent economist John Maynard Keynes predicted that within 100 years technological improvements would result in a 15\-hour work week\. Why hasn’t this happened? 9\. We live in a society where much has been simplified to ‘a click of a button’\, yet why do we feel busier than ever? 10\. Has the removal of bottlenecks caused us to live at a more frenetic pace? 11\. Does difficulty and friction create meaning? Do resistance and constraint force us to slow down and better appreciate life? **Work in my backyard** 12\. To what degree does work \(and associated competition\) function as a necessary ‘sorting mechanism’ for status and resources? 13\. Competition for many jobs – especially those that are prestigious \- is increasingly global\. Has it become harder for people who want a ‘normal’ job \(and the good life\)? 14\. How does the globalisation of work affect how we see the ‘relevant moral community’\, such as between Australia and developing nations? 15\. Is globalised work a trend towards greater justice or injustice? **Augmented Indolence?** 16\. While the advent of every technology introduced thus far has not reduced human labour in aggregate\, with AI will it finally be different this time? 17\. If AI replaces numerous types of jobs wholesale\, what new work may be created \(or greatly expanded\) for humans to do? 18\. If aggregate human labour was drastically reduced\, is it more likely that people will feel liberated from economic necessity\, or beset by a crisis of meaning? 19\. What is worse – a life of constant work\, or no work at all? Hope to see you there!

Turn Anxiety into Happiness! Become your natural self again. Discover the drug-free way to a healthy mind. This educational talk is based on the book Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health by New York Times bestseller author L. Ron Hubbard. Dianetics is an exact science of the mind. In this educational talk you will learn about the hidden source of all irrational thoughts and behavior as well as unwanted emotions (anxiety, fear, suppression, and apathy) and how to handle them forever. Free entry and free parking. Please send messages to host if you have any question.

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas

This month we’ll be ready The Fifth Season by NK Jemisin. Feel free to come even if you don’t finish the bookk!

Join us for a Japanese Book Fair + Ramen Meetup! We’ll browse the used Japanese Book Fair together at Yokoso Center, then head next door to Tensuke Ramen from 5–6 PM to enjoy ramen and other Japanese dishes. After we eat, we’ll hang out and play a few casual games. Come for books, stay for food and community, open to all!

We will show a variety of methods for building agents that run in Microsoft Foundry. This covers the different types of agents: Prompt, Multi, and Hosted, as well as the development lifecycle using evals and traces.

This meeting will be an open discussion of adjusting to vision loss guided by participant interests. Target audience for this group is persons who are visually impaired, especially those who have experienced recent loss, however, all are welcome, including family members and supports. Light refreshments will be served. You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.