Procrastinators

We are a multi-disciplinary group of PhDs and academic staff who write together regularly and help one another to achieve our writing goals through supportive community, focus and a structure that works. We welcome anyone who wants to get some writing done in a collegial, supportive, encouraging environment. You don’t have to be from University of Melbourne (you don’t have to be from university at all!). We use the Pomodoro method, which means we write in timed intervals of silence, then chat and catch up for 5 mins and repeat the cycle. Arrive when you like, leave when you like. The goal is to keep our writing projects progressing and reduce the isolation that can be part of the academic and/or writing life. **Session Outline:** Welcome: 9.00-9.05 (5 mins) Pomodoro 1: 9.05-9.30 (25 mins). Break: 9.30-9.35 (5 mins) Pomodoro 2: 9.35-10.00 (25 mins) Break: 10.00-10.05 (25 mins) Pomodoro 3: 10.05-10.55 (50 mins) Break: 10.55-11.05 (10 mins) Pomodoro 4: 11.05-11.30 (25 mins) **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com). **Other Important Details:** WiFi name/password: There is free public wifi available at the Melbourne Connect Superfloor (speak to the concierge for details). University of Melbourne staff and students can connect to the university wifi; staff and students from other universities can join Eduroam using their home institution's log in credentials. Travel / Parking info: Public bike parking along Swanston and Grattan Streets. Tram routes 1, 3, 3a, 5, 16. 16, 64, 67, 72 along Swanston Street (Stop 1) and 19 along Royal Parade (Stop 10). The nearest train station is Parkville Metro Station. Bus routes include 200, 207, 250, 251, 401, 402, 403, 505, 546. There is no public parking available at Melbourne Connect, however the area is well serviced by nearby public carparks, including Cardigan House Parking at 96 Grattan Street and the University of Melbourne Eastern Precinct Car Park at 375 Grattan Street. A taxi rank is located on Grattan Street.

While there is plenty of advice available out there about public speaking, we think the best way to gain confidence is to practice and learn by doing, in a fun, friendly forum over dinner. Gourmet Toastmasters is set in the familiar and comforting soundings of a restaurant. We meet monthly, on the second Tuesday of each month, upstairs at the Malvernvale Hotel. We have a range of supportive club members from beginners looking to improve their public speaking, through to long term experienced Toastmasters, who impart their gift of knowledge and experience for all club members. Guests are more than welcome to visit the club, so come along, make new friends, learn from others and experience their journey. **Date:** The second Tuesday of each month **Time:** 6:30pm - 9.30pm **Location:** Malvervale Hotel 1321 Malvern Rd, Malvern As we are located in a restaurant we have a set cost of $40 for a 2 course meal, and bookings are essential. So please email [contact@gourmettoastmasters.org](mailto:contact@gourmettoastmasters.org) to find out more. We hope to see you for dinner!

**Struggling with study or learning? You’re not alone.** This meetup suits people at all levels of study skill. Too many children, teenagers, and adults find studying difficult—not because they lack ability, but because they were never taught **how to learn**. This meetup introduces the basics of **Study Technology**—a practical, proven approach that shows how learning really works and how to overcome common study barriers. It applies to children, teens (and parents), teachers, and adults alike. You’ll discover simple, effective methods to improve understanding, confidence, and performance—whether at school, work, or online. Teachers and parents often see rapid improvements in both behaviour and results. Yes, it *is* possible to improve study performance—in just **five easy steps**. If you can’t attend in person, online options are available. **Join us and learn how to study effectively—once and for all.** See you at the meetup, **Pam** When learning clicks, confidence follows.

Hello everyone ,let me start by giving you one of my favorite quotes, "Success is an organised activity". Today we are going to be talking about Business Management . Business management at its core involves the actions of planning, organizing , leadership and understanding the difference between good and bad control . We are going to be taking a look at these aspects and see how they fit in to your business. An understanding and mastery of the concepts will give you an edge over others in your industry and set you up on the road to success. If for any reason you can not make it ,contact us on 0449 970 191 and will organize a Free one on one briefing with you I hope to see you there ! Cheers

**🔥 MELBOURNE'S NO.1 BAR CRAWL! 🔥** Want an epic night out for just **$15**? Here’s what you need to do: 1\. Click "**Attending**" on the Meetup event 2\. Pre\-book your ticket at [ontherocksbarcrawl.com](ontherocksbarcrawl.com/melbourne/book-now) – Use promo code “**MEETUP26**” on an '**Online Saver**' ticket for $10 off your ticket price! 3\. ARRIVE **BEFORE 18:30** (strict cutoff – no exceptions!) ⏳ Miss any of these steps? It’s **more expensive** on the door! If you're late, your discounted ticket won’t be valid. **WHATS INCLUDED?** 🍹 **1 Free Drink at EVERY Bar** 🚀 **VIP** fast-track entry to **4 top** **venues** 🕺 **Free** pass to the best **nightclubs** at the end of the night 👫 Fun games and friendly guides throughout the night We’re officially TripAdvisor’s #1 nightlife experience in Brighton (UK), Barcelona, and now Melbourne! **ARRIVAL INFORMATION:** 📍 'Alfie's Melbourne', 167 Franklin St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia 🕢 Arrive BEFORE start time (18:30) **💡 IMPORTANT INFO:** 🔞 18+ only – bring a valid Driving Licence or Passport (other IDs may not be accepted) 💬 Contact +61 436 399 434 if you have any issues! 🚫 Due to previous negative experiences, we do not allow stag/hen dos or same-sex groups of 9+ on our public crawls. (Private bookings available – email enquiries to info@ontherocksbarcrawl.com) **🔥 DON’T MISS OUT – BOOK YOUR $15 TICKET [HERE](ontherocksbarcrawl.com/melbourne/book-now) NOW! 🎉**

**In-person event!** ## **The Reality Check** 90% of organisations are seeing some value from AI, but there is a massive gap between the “experimenters” and the “performers.” Most are stuck in Pilot Purgatory—burning through budgets while boards demand proof of return. *** ## **The Session** We’ve bought out from the United States, **Laks Srinivasan** (CEO, Return on AI Institute) to share with our market the global research the Institute has undertaken and published in Harvard Business Review along with the great AI Native offering for Enterprises from AI-Native by Scaled Agile. 1. **The Research:** Laks Srinivasan (CEO, Return on AI Institute) breaks down a global study of 1,000+ executives. He’ll share the “Value Gap” data—revealing exactly what distinguishes organizations winning with AI from those just spending money. 2. **The Blueprint:** We’ll dive into the Scaled Agile AI-Native system. This isn’t just about tools; it’s about the [AI-Native Foundations](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-foundations) and [Change Agent](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-change-agent) and [Leading the AI-Native Organisation](https://prettyagile.com.au/course/ai-native-leader). Frameworks that rewire how teams work, from prompt fluency to enterprise-scale workflows and how Executives lead AI Native Enterprises. *** ## **The Mix** **5:00 pm Welcome drinks + nibbles** **5:30 pm Data & Strategy:** * Laks presents the Harvard Business Review global research featured findings and the AI Money Map. **6:00 pm Group Jam** * A facilitated “unfiltered” discussion. We’ll explore how to move from scattered AI insights to an executable, AI-Native strategy. **6:30 pm Mingle with drinks + nibbles** *** ## **What’s in it for you?** * **Executives:** Get the metrics and “Board-ready” data to justify AI spend. * **Leads/Agilists:** See the AI-Native Change Agent roadmap to scale AI beyond small pilots. * **Engineers/PMs & Teams:** Learn how to redesign workflows to be “AI-First” without losing agility with AI-Native Foundations.

**Ready to Speak with Confidence?** **Want to Lead with Impact and Express Yourself Clearly?** **Join Manningham Toastmasters – Where Speakers Become Leaders!** Whether you want to conquer public speaking anxiety, sharpen your communication skills, or grow into a stronger leader — Manningham Toastmasters is the place for you! We're part of **Toastmasters International**, a global non-profit run by volunteers, and we’re passionate about helping people *just like you* unlock their full potential. Our meetings are packed with energy, learning, and a whole lot of fun. ✨ **What to Expect:** * Impromptu Speaking (we call it Table Topics — and it's a blast!) * Prepared Speeches from passionate members * Feedback that’s positive, supportive, and helps you *grow* * Leadership opportunities that build your confidence — fast! We meet twice a month, and **guests are always welcome!** You can attend **up to three meetings for FREE** — come see what we’re all about before signing up. 📅 **When:** 2nd and 4th Thursdays, 7:00–9:00 PM 📍 **Where:** Box Hill Library, Bert Lewis Room, 1040 Whitehorse Rd, Box Hill VIC 3128 🚀 **Take the First Step** – Visit our website to learn more and book your guest spot: https://www.toastmasters.org/Find-a-Club/00006780-00006780

Want to be able to articulate your thoughts with clarity and precision? Want to overcome your public speaking anxiety and become a confident presenter? Want to develop leadership skills and become a better communicator? Join Elsternwick ToastMasters Club! Toastermasters is a not-for-profit organisation that is run by volunteers. We provide a supportive and positive learning experience in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self-confidence and personal growth. We have meeting regularly, each meeting has a range of activities for you to participate in, such as impromptu speaking, prepared speech, debate,etc. You will also receive constructive feedback which helps you improve your performance. Guests are welcome! We offer three meetings for free to our guests before joining as a member,so you can get a taste of how ToastMasters works and decide if it's right for you. When: 2nd and 4th Thursday, 7pm-9pm Where: 450-452 Kooyong Rd, Caufield South Visit our website to find out more: https://elsternwick.toastmastersclubs.org/ Send us an contact form through our website to reserve your spot if you'd like to attend our meeting as a guest.

Too many kids as well as teenagers and adults have problems with study. Today's meetup will inform you about the basics in STUDY TECHNOLOGY that provides an understanding of the basics of learning and supplies exact ways to overcome all the pitfalls one can encounter during study. This is applicable to young children, teenagers (or their parents that are trying to help them) and adults alike. Study Technology shows how one studies in order to comprehend a subject so one can apply it. Laws on which learning is based and workable methods have also been discovered for anyone to apply for themselves or when teaching others. Too many students graduate from school and college unable to put to use what they’ve learned in school. It’s not that they’re stupid or that their teachers didn’t know how to teach. More than likely it traces back to the one thing missing from most educations—learning how to learn in the first place. We all went to school, yet isn’t it odd that no one taught us how to study? The information presented at this meetup can help anyone improve others or his own ability to learn. It is a practical tool that parents and teachers alike can use to enhance a child's study performance. You’ll learn the barriers that lie between your own or a child's education. And you will very quickly learn how to overcome them. This technology will enable you or a child to pursue any subject with skill and confidence. Teachers who have "hard to handle/distributive " or slow learners in class will absolutely love the amazing turn around most often seen in improved behaviour and student performance in class. If you or your child has difficulties at school (or learning new things at work or online) than this meetup is important to you. If you can not make it to our meetup than contact the organizer and arrange it to suit your time. This technology can if one was to live far away be taught online. (extension course) You may offcourse also opt to have this technology taught to your own child by experienced volunteeer staff or learn about this yourself and transfer this knowledge to those you want to have better grades. Yes it is possible to improve anyone's study performance. All it takes is just 5 steps. See you at this meetup. Pam

Toastmasters is a worldwide organisation which empowers its members to conquer their fear of public speaking and become better communicators. There is no need to formally register for the event, just RSVP to this meetup event if you can, then simply show up in person on the evening. If there is no one at the entrance, please message one of the organisers on this app For more information, check out the City Centre Toastmasters website [here](https://citycentretoastmastersmelbourne.toastmastersclubs.org/). What we'll do at the meeting: \- Impromptu speaking \(Table Topics\): Everyone can take part in this\! \- Prepared Speeches: Please note that only Toastmasters members can give prepared speeches\. \- Get friendly and constructive feedback on your speaking\. \- Get to know each other during the break\, before\, and after the meeting\. Important to know * Members of this Meetup are not automatically members of the club. Meetup refers to people who belong to the City Centre Toastmasters Meetup group as 'members,' but from a Toastmasters' point of view, people are only members if they've paid their club dues.

# 🌟 *Breat Procrastination and Staring at The Crowd When at Social Events with Taking a Minimum Viable Step!* Do you want to feel confident stepping into group conversations, knowing exactly what to say, when to say it, and how to build momentum naturally? Do you want a clear structure that makes socialising feel *doable*, while still allowing real, organic, human connection? This session blends **structure with spontaneity**, so you can practise social confidence in a way that actually works for your brain. *** # 💬 **WHAT THIS SESSION IS ABOUT** This is a **guided practice lab** for group interaction. Instead of guessing what to say, you will work with: • specific topics chosen by the group on the day • simple, powerful questions to guide conversation • structured rounds that make it easier to start and continue interactions You are not performing or “being social” on command, you are learning a **repeatable process** that helps you enter conversations naturally and build depth from there. The structure gives you clarity. Your responses stay *real, personal, and fully your own.* *** # 🧠 **WHY THIS WORKS** ## *Minimum Viable Steps (MVS)* Starting conversations is often the hardest part. So instead of forcing yourself to “be social”, we focus on: ### ***Minimum Viable Steps (MVS)*** Small, achievable actions like: • approaching a group • listening for context • asking one simple question • sharing one small response These steps reduce overwhelm and help you build momentum naturally. You are not powering through, you are **following a chain of small wins** that lead into flow. *** # 🔄 **HOW THE SESSION RUNS** This session is structured into **timed rounds (approx. 8 minutes each)**. Each round gives you a clear, simple objective. ## 🔹 *Structured Group Rounds* • You will begin in small groups with a defined topic • Each round includes suggested questions to guide interaction • You are free to respond in your own way, nothing scripted ## 🔹 *Rotations* At the end of each round: • two people rotate out of each group • each joins a different group This creates: • clarity on where to go next • repeated practice starting new conversations • exposure to different dynamics and people *No guessing. No awkward hovering. Just clear next steps.* *** # 💡 **TOPICS & QUESTIONS** At the start of the session, we will: • gather topics participants are genuinely interested in • write them down and use them throughout the rounds Each round will include **simple, open questions** related to the topic, designed to: • spark conversation easily • create direction without rigidity • allow natural sharing and depth You follow the structure, but what you share is always your own. *** # 🌱 **WHAT YOU WILL PRACTISE** • starting conversations decisively (again and again) • entering groups with clarity instead of hesitation • listening before contributing • asking simple questions that open conversation • building flow through small, manageable steps • rotating between groups with confidence • staying present without overwhelm Over time, this becomes **automatic**. *** # 📝 **BEFORE & AFTER** At the beginning: • you will complete a short reflection on meaningful connection in your life At the end: • you will share what worked, what did not, and what could be improved This helps shape future sessions based on what actually supports you. *** # 👋 **A NOTE FROM THE FACILITATOR** This is not about being the most confident person in the room. It is about learning a structure that helps you: • take action • reduce overwhelm • build real connection step by step You do not need to get it perfect. ## ***You just need to take the next small step.***

Come along and learn about the five ways to address a problem, handling backlogs, and what exactly control is.

📚 #InPursuit is a book club for entrepreneurs, creatives, and curious minds who know personal growth fuels business growth. **See a lot of RSPVPs and wonder how it works? We'll break up into groups of 6-8 to share our insights, then swap groups after 30-45min so you can maximise learning from everybody!** *Note: this even is not organised by or affiliated with The State Library of Victoria* **That's what #InPursuit is all about** It’s not a traditional book club, it’s a space for people who are actively designing a better life through the pursuit of business, creativity, and personal growth. This event is for anyone #InPursuit of better business, life and relationships. Instead of reading the same book, we each come prepared to share one powerful insight from something we’ve read in the past 3-months. Anything non-fiction that’s moved us forward. Whether it’s a mindset shift, a productivity system, a new philosophy, or just a truth that punched us in the gut. This is a place to unpack it together and hear what others are learning too. We’re not just here to *read*. We’re here to *integrate*. Because when we grow, our business and our lives grow too. **🔍 Why Join? You'll leave with:** * 5–10 fresh insights from books you may never have picked up * Deeper awareness of how others think, lead, and evolve * New connections with people walking a similar path toward purpose, results, and impact This isn’t a lecture. It’s a room full of people building themselves while they build the thing. **📖 How It Works** First time? No pressure to share, just come curious. We'll break up into groups of 6-8 and share our insights, then swap groups so you can maximise the learning! Returning? Bring one idea you’ve read about in the last 3-months and be ready to speak on: 1. What did you learn? 2. How did it shift your perspective about the world or yourself? 3. How has it changed the way you show up or behave? We keep it structured, but flexible. After sharing, we open up to Q&A, personal stories, challenges, and deep dives. Some of the best insights come from the conversations *after* the share. **🧠 Who This Is For** * Entrepreneurs or side-hustlers finding their footing * Business owners, and doers building toward better * Curious minds who love ideas but care more about action * People tired of shallow conversations and hungry for growth If you’re working on something—or becoming someone—this space is for you. It’s a practice ground for people who want to grow forward. We’re all #InPursuit of mastery, momentum, and the kind of success that starts from within. **Map on how to get there** We're in the Create Quarter on the ground level (back right of the Quad as you enter from Swanson St). We'll likely be on a long table together. https://www.slv.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/SLV-EnglishMap_Jan25.pdf

We'll meet at The Capital One Café, 167 Easton Town Center, Space A-103. This is in the main mall where the Microsoft store used to be, on your left if you're standing at the bottom of the AMC Theater escalator. Join us on Saturday for an hour of uninterrupted wordmaking! • What we'll do Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 10AM on Saturday mornings. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. SCHEDULE: 10:00 - SESSION 1: quick intros. 10:10 - timer starts: write for 1 hour. 11:10 - chat / take off / keep writing. OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING happens at 11A-11:30ish. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. (I’ll be the person with the Shut Up & Write! sign.) If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! • What to bring Whatever you need to be able to write! Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block noise or the occasional conversation by other patrons. Electrical outlets are limited, so charge your devices before whenever possible. See you at The Café on Saturday!

Bring your Raspberry Pi, Arduino, microcontroller, or any other electronic project and join fellow electronics makers for a night of creativity and collaboration! This session is open forum to share your current projects—whether complete or in progress, it’s all interesting! Whether you’re deep into embedded systems, exploring new ideas, or just getting started, you’ll find a welcoming space to collaborate, share, and get inspired. **New to electronics or curious about tinkering?** You’re absolutely welcome. If you’re a beginner and want to experiment, I’ll have a couple of starter kits available so you can try things out—whether that’s blinking your first LED, putting something on a display, or experimenting with simple sensors. No pressure and no experience required—just an interest in learning and building. While we continue to pursue a more permanent venue for this Meetup, we’ll be using public library facilities based on availability. This session will be at the Worthington Park Library in the Olentangy Meeting Room.

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at 7:00pm on Wednesday, February 11 at Streetlight Guild. Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **SCHEDULE:** 6:45ish - Quick introductions 7:00 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:00 - The End **OPTIONAL SOCIALIZING** happens before and after the writing hour. Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. **BEING LATE IS OKAY:** just show up and get settled! If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing & I look forward to seeing you at Streetlight Guild! **WHAT SHOULD I BRING?** Whatever you need to be able to write! You're welcome to bring earplugs/headphones if noise will bother you! **OTHER IMPORTANT DETAILS:** * **RSVP:** Please RSVP by 6:00pm the evening of the meeting. This helps me know how many to expect, and if we'll need additional space! * **COVID:** While masks are not required, please be mindful of the other writers around you and their comfort levels. * **WIFI/OUTLETS:** Outlets are limited, so please ensure your devices are charged when you come! But Streetlight Guild does have free WiFi! Yay! * **PARKING:** There is free public parking at Streetlight Guild.

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

Greetings writers! Come down and join your fellow wordsmiths for one hour of uninterrupted writing time in the upper level of the Market District Supermarket in Upper Arlington. The main entrance of the shopping center opens onto stairs/elevator leading up to the 2nd floor cafe section where we will have a table displaying a sign with the Shut Up & Write logo. Writing is largely a solitary craft. Practicing with others in a community setting may be the thing you need to fire your own routine. We’ll meet on Wednesday evenings, starting the clock at 6:30, following a brief period of introductions. This is solid writing time and all inclusive. Any project is acceptable, be it fiction, non -fiction, work or homework assignment. All is welcome and will remain private to you. The market boasts a Starbucks, a full service bar and various affordable food options. Parking is plentiful, free Wifi is provided as well as outlets for charging your devices, though they are somewhat limited, so plan accordingly. Show up as early as you like, or stay late. This group tends to socialize some, both before and after the alloted time, but this is not mandatory to you. Feel free to come and go as you please and late arrivals are welcome. The cafe may be noisy on occasion so headphones/ earbuds are reccommended as you see fit. Please try to RSVP if possible so that we may grab enough seats for all—the venue can be busy at times. Feel free to message me privately wth any questions and/ or concerns you may have. Happy writing!

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** TBD **YouTube Link** TBD