Poetry

We'll meet at the spot where Fed Square meets the Princes Bridge over the Yarra (near the pedestrian crossing closest to the river from Flinders St, on the Fed Square side). We'll walk for about 6km along the Yarra River, through the Botanic Gardens and back along the river to Federation Square for a coffee after the walk. This month, we're reading and talking about 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe. The blurb: "Arguably Achebe's most important novel, *Things Fall Apart* has sold over 10 million copies worldwide and been translated into more than fifty languages Okonkwo is the greatest warrior alive, famous throughout West Africa. But when he accidentally kills a clansman, things begin to fall apart. Then Okonkwo returns from exile to find missionaries and colonial governors have arrived in the village. With his world thrown radically off-balance he can only hurtle towards tragedy. Chinua Achebe's stark novel reshaped both African and world literature. This arresting parable of a proud but powerless man witnessing the ruin of his people begins Achebe's landmark trilogy of works chronicling the fate of one African community, continued in *Arrow of God* and *No Longer at Ease*." Goodreads rating: 3.74 How does a walking bookclub work? Like a normal bookclub, we talk about the book, what else we're reading, have read, or want to read (as well as a few tangents into life outside literature!) but we do it while walking around Melbourne and then over a coffee. We often split into smaller groups as we walk, but we also regroup through the walk. Should I read the book beforehand? The conversation will be more interesting if you do, but you can still come along if you haven't finished it yet! Do I need to bring anything? **Comfy** walking shoes, drinking water, some money for coffee or a bite to eat after if you wish. No need to bring the book unless you want to. No shows No shows (RSVPing yes and not attending) mean the group waits unnecessarily for those who are not coming, thinking you are running a little late. It’s absolutely fine to change your rsvp for any reason up until the walk begins, and you don’t need to leave a comment, send a message or give a reason, but if you don't click that 'change rsvp' button, you may be removed from the group. Membership Fee Did you know that while it is free to attend most events, Meetup charges organisers about $600 a year to organise a group? Members of the Walking Book Club are asked to pay a membership fee of $10 per year (not per event) to help cover this cost. When you join the group, you'll be automatically given a three month trial so you can see what the group is like, without needing to make any payment. If you would like to continue attending events after this, please follow Meetup's instructions to pay the $6.50US/approx $10AUD fee once per year (or contact group organisers if you would prefer to make payment using paypal, payID, cash or bank transfer).

[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.

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)

## **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.

‼️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. ✨

Join us at **Good Heavens**, Melbourne's biggest rooftop bar, for a laid back summertime afternoon of socializing and good times with awesome people. Perched above Bourke Street, Good Heavens serves up signature cocktails, craft beers, and delicious bites, with great city views\* 🌇🔆🎉🤩. We have two reserved areas under Andy & Annita. See you there! ☀️🍹

Book your FREE TRIAL Salsa Class for Absolute Beginner!😍 SOLE LATINO A brand new salsa dance studio in Prahran, Melbourne 🇦🇺✨ Whether you’re stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or ready to level up, we’ve got structured classes to guide you every step of the way. 📅 Salsa classes every Tuesday & Sunday 🕺 Partnerwork & Shines 🔥 From absolute beginner to intermediate 📍 HD Entertainment Level 2 34 King Street, Prahran 3181 SOLE LATINO A brand new salsa dance studio in Prahran, Melbourne 🇦🇺✨ Whether you’re stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or ready to level up, we’ve got structured classes to guide you every step of the way. 📅 Salsa classes every Tuesday & Sunday 🕺 Partnerwork & Shines 🔥 From absolute beginner to intermediate 📍 HD Entertainment Level 2, 34 King Street Prahran 3181 Enter from Mount Street Our Sunday Class: SALSA PARTNERWORK 🕕 6PM – 7PM 🔹 SALSA ESSENTIALS (Absolute Beginner Level) Absolute beginners welcome — no experience needed. First Time dancing, this class is recommended to be taken for at least 2 months. 🔹 SALSA FOUNDATIONS (Beginner Level) Build strong partner work, turns & transitions. This class is recommended to be taken for at least 2 months. 🕖 7PM – 8PM 🔹 SALSA RHYTHM & POLARITY (Intermediate Level) ✔️ Musicality ✔️ Longer combos ✔️ Better connection For dancers ready to sharpen technique and flow ✨ Price: ** Casual : $20 (any Class) ** Starter Pack 7 Classes $105 (Only Salsa Essential/Absolute Beginner) ** 7 Classes Pass $125 (Only Tue& Sun Classes) ** 14 Classes Pass $220 (Tue - Fri - Sun - Social + Free Member) More info : solelatinosalsa@gmail.com +61 431 346 212 0477778612

Sunday Evening Meditation 5.30 to 6.30pm Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our activities. Incense and other dharma books and items for sale 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

Hey Poetry Lovers! This group is on a roll. Here’s the gist: We meet at the **Capital One Café in Chinatown** from **12pm - 2pm** every other week. For enrichment, we start by reading and reflecting on a **“published poem”**, suggested by someone in the group. No advance preparation is necessary. But feel free to check out some of the poems we’ve read [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vSyE_wCLQCPHRrKmN5F9tOIeeRQUZESxjRXGVBoCF2uU8Gm0_d0uECiCBCQXEy6ksxfsBOhtRIOpW3T/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E). Or submit suggestions for future meetings [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexGc2Z2Kp6bZW0D3_hfJ7NUUkfNHf7TXX-43FglCeBd9EF2Q/viewform?usp=send_form). Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Ian / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

Let’s hang out and journal together, trade stationary and stickers, and have a good time! Please note, we do not have a reservationtion, so we will do our best to find some good spots when we get there. The address is:

Greetings Soul Warriors! Let us gather at **2:30 PM** at the Trust Conference Room at the C Burr Artz Public Library and get our poetry on! Note that we will be meeting on Sunday rather than Saturday due to the availability of the room at the library. This meeting will consist of chatting, reading, and reflecting. All styles of poetry are welcome, from conventional, to the slightly insane, to the completely bonkers. All levels of engagement with the poetical arts are welcome - don't be inhibited if you don't have experience in poetry, I myself am secretly a total neophyte with no credentials that would be relevant to leading a poetry group. Whether you bring something to share or just your winning personality, I hope to see you there!

Looking for a quiet, focused space to write? Come be part of our writing group—a dedicated time just for writing alongside fellow writers in your community. No readings, no critiques, no peer-review—just you writing within a supportive atmosphere. 7pm-7:15pm: Find your seat, set up your writing station, quick intro's. 7:15pm-8:45 pm: An hour and a half of silent focused writing. 8:45pm-9pm: Quick debrief, pack and head home. Can't wait to see you! :)

Greetings Soul Warriors! Let us gather at **2:30 PM** at the Trust Conference Room at the C Burr Artz Public Library and get our poetry on!! This meeting will consist of chatting, reading, and reflecting. People with all levels of previous engagement with the poetical arts are welcome. Please bring a work you've written and would like to share or just your own congenial personality and an open mind. I look forward to seeing you there!

**Looking for a group you can write with *whilst sipping your fave coffee*?** ☕✍️ Then come join **Shut Up & Write!** on **Saturday, January 24th from 1:30pm to 4:00pm** at **Ridgetop Coffee & Tea**! Whether you're cranking out a novel, journaling, looking for new friends, or just trying to get that stubborn paragraph right—we’ve got a cozy seat and a supportive group waiting for you! **No critiques, no peer review, no pressure—just a chill space to get words on the page.** 📝 **What to expect:** 1:30–2:00pm – Grab your coffee or tea, find your seat, and meet your fellow writers. 2:00pm–3:30pm – Silent, focused writing time 3:30–4:00pm – Debrief, celebrate any writing wins, commiserate on any obstacles, and head out feeling accomplished. **RSVP Info:** The room seats only 8 people comfortably! RSVP as soon as possible to secure your spot!! If you are unable to attend, please cancel your reservation **ASAP** so those on the wait list are able to RSVP and attend!!! **Meeting Room:** Enter the coffee shop, walk straight towards the play area and on your left you will see a meeting room just past the bathrooms. The room has a TV, white board, and walls are painted green. **What to Bring:** Whatever helps you focus, and be productive. There is a wall outlet at each end of the room, so you're able to bring your laptop to write. You're welcome to bring headphones if you enjoy listening to music while working. **Parking & Accessibility:** there is a large parking lot out front and it is free! There are no stair cases when entering the coffee shop or when inside. This coffee shop is incredibly spacious with many seating options. If you have any questions, please message me through MeetUp. I'm happy to help. **Dietary Information:** many GF, Vegan, and SF options. Just ask your barista when ordering for specifics! Can’t wait to see you there! 🎉