Secularism

This weeks topic: Mindsight - Seeing without Eyes **Event Info:** The purpose of this gathering is to get together as an inclusive Spiritual Playgroup without any set agenda. We will talk and discuss spiritual topics as well as exchange knowledge, skills, abilities, gifts and healing modalities to help each other unlock our highest potential. The evening is broken up into parts, starting with a group meditation, followed by an activity, then a tea break, finishing with group discussion Every level of experience and background is welcomed, whether you are just starting out with spirituality and want to explore more, or you are a veteran and want to share your wisdom with others. If you are new and don't know anyone, please come talk to me, I can introduce you to regulars. **Topics can include:** Spirituality, esotericism, metaphysics, philosophy, psychic abilities/gifts/intuition, mediumship, working with energy, working with spiritual guides/beings, healing/energy healing, health, wellbeing, mysticism, theosophy, shamanism, starseeds and many others. Whatever comes up during our gatherings, everyone is encouraged to suggest topics and participate. You are welcome to share any spiritual/healing/metaphysical knowledge, experiences, talents that you have with the group or simply enjoy the company of like-minded people & learn from each other through these sessions. **This group is for you if:** -You want to explore spirituality in a fun, laid back setting. -You are looking to unlock deeper aspects of yourself. -You are looking to unlock your intuition/gifts. -You are looking for your calling/purpose/how to be of service. -You want to reach a higher level of self-awareness and apply it to your everyday life. -You are looking to meet and make friends with other like-minded people. -You want to help anchor the spiritual energies. -You enjoy spiritual discussions. -You want to help others. This group is open and accepting of everyone looking to learn or help others, any disrespect will not be tolerated and you will be asked to leave. Keep in mind that this group is not religion based. **What to bring:** -A bottle of water -Optionally feel free to bring a snack but we do ask that you keep the place clean. -$5 contribution which helps cover the cost of the facility **Amenities provided:** -Chairs -Kitchen for tea/coffee/snacks -Toilets **Location:** Level 1/234 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000 **Getting there:** It is a short 3 minute walk from Flinders Street Station, with nearby tram stops as well. There is a parking lot on Flinders Lane as well if you are coming by car, which is 20$ flat rate for the night if you book online (otherwise it is 25$). **Important note:** The event has a capped attendance, and as such we ask that you only RSVP as attending if you know you are able to make it. If you can no longer attend, please change your RSVP to not attending, to allow others to attend. This meetup is also posted on another meetup group, so numbers here do not reflect complete attendance. Kind Regards, Emile and Gunnel Facilitators / your hosts: Gunnel Watkins is a board member of The Melbourne Theosophical Society, she has a background in Transpersonal Art Therapy and is a practicing artist. Emile has been hosting this group via Meetup Group [https://www.meetup.com/melbourne-spirituality-personal-growth-meditation-meetup/events/260755046/](https://www.meetup.com/melbourne-spirituality-personal-growth-meditation-meetup/events/260755046/)

Two thirty-minute presentations followed by Beer & Pizza Speakers: ## From Bits to Collisions: Breaking and Defending Railway OT This session introduces **OT-Security-Lab**, a hands-on railway SCADA/PLC security lab that shows how cyber attacks can create real physical impacts. By simulating safety logic, control registers, and legacy protocols like Modbus TCP, the lab demonstrates how attackers can manipulate OT systems without exploits or malware. It also highlights how Blue Teams can detect these behaviors, helping bridge the gap between IT security and real-world OT environments. Bio: Christian Azuero is a cybersecurity specialist and Technical System Consultant at BMM Testlabs with over five years of experience across firewall auditing, threat detection, DFIR, and regulatory compliance. He designs hands-on Blue-Team and CTF learning environments, including the Hacker Escape Room platform used by students and cybersecurity communities across Australia. Christian holds an MSc in Network & Security from Monash University and multiple industry certifications, and is passionate about making cybersecurity and OT education accessible, practical, and fun.

This week's theme we will be trying out Mindsight- Seeing without eyes. The purpose of this meet-up is to get together as an inclusive group of support and community for those who are spiritual, but not necessarily religious. The session is usually (but not always) divided into two, with the fist half being a practical aspect, followed by open free discussion. We will discuss topics as well as exchange knowledge, skills, abilities, gifts and healing modalities to help each other unlock our highest potential. Our intention is to keep it laid back with a big emphasis on exploring and having fun. Every level of experience and background is welcomed, whether you are just starting out with spirituality and want to explore more, or you are a veteran and want to share your wisdom with others. **Topics can include:** Spirituality, esotericism, metaphysics, philosophy, psychic abilities/gifts/intuition, mediumship, working with energy, working with spiritual guides/beings, healing/energy healing, health, wellbeing, mysticism, theosophy, shamanism, starseeds and many others. Whatever comes up during our gatherings, everyone is encouraged to suggest topics and participate. You are welcome to share any spiritual/healing/metaphysical knowledge, experiences, talents that you have with the group or simply enjoy the company of like-minded people & learn from each other through these sessions. **This group is for you if:** -You want to explore spirituality in a fun, laid back setting. -You are looking to unlock deeper aspects of yourself. -You are looking to unlock your intuition/gifts. -You are looking for your calling/purpose/how to be of service. -You want to reach a higher level of self-awareness and apply it to your everyday life. -You are looking to meet and make friends with other like-minded people. -You want to help anchor the spiritual energies. -You enjoy spiritual discussions. -You want to help others. This group is open and accepting of everyone looking to learn or help others, any disrespect will not be tolerated and you will be asked to leave. Keep in mind that this group is not religion based. **What to bring:** -A bottle of water -Optionally feel free to bring a snack but we do ask that you keep the place clean. -Donations are welcomed which help cover the cost of the facility **Amenities provided:** -Chairs -Kitchen for tea/coffee/snacks -Toilets **Doors open at 6pm** You are welcome to come earlier and peruse the bookshop and chat to others that arrive earlier. The event starts at 7pm. **Location:** Level 1/234 Flinders Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000 **Getting there:** It is a short 3 minute walk from Flinders Street Station, with nearby tram stops as well. There is a parking lot on Flinders Lane as well if you are coming by car, which is 20$ flat rate for the night if you book online (otherwise it is 25$). **Important note:** The event has a capped attendance, and as such we ask that you only RSVP as attending if you know you are able to make it. If you can no longer attend, please change your RSVP to not attending, to allow others to attend. This meetup is also posted on another meetup group, so numbers here do not reflect complete attendance. Kind Regards, Emile and Gunnel

Meditation practicing

Enjoy brunch at historic Pentridge

Ritual starts at 7pm - please arrive between 6.30pm & 7pm. **ONLY INITIATED MEMBERS MAY ATTEND**. Click here for details on how to become a member **[https://esotericbookshop.org/hermetic-order-of-the-red-dragon/](https://esotericbookshop.org/hermetic-order-of-the-red-dragon/)** The whole point of **HORD** is to become ***enlightened*** and to do this by rending apart the ***Veil of Illusion*** leaving the way clear to achieving the ***Knowledge and Conversation of your Holy Guardian Angel***. This is done by 'Solve et Coagula' in Alchemical terms. You undergo a series of challenges that essentially help you pull yourself apart, realise which parts of yourself you have created as an ***'illusion'***, and change that ‘illusion’ so that you can reassemble yourself in a better and more perfect way. ***HORD doesn’t do it. You do it***. But you have the rest of the group to support and back you up as we all go through the process together. Rending the Veil is a ‘profound’ experience. We don’t let go of our illusions easily. The whole process consists of finding your ‘illusions’ and seeing them for what they are – unreal. There is a simple test to check if you’ve found an illusion. **Emotion**. ***If something makes you laugh, cry, get pissed off – congratulations; you’ve found one***. Enlightened Buddhists, when they find another illusion, roll around laughing for hours and hours and hours. In fact, people like the ***Dalai Lama*** spend most of the day rolling around in laughter – the more enlightened you are – the more illusions you find. … the unenlightened just get pissed off. The Hermetic Order of the Red Dragon (HORD) is a ceremonial magic group that evolved from the Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn (GD). For more information: **[https://esotericbookshop.org/hermetic-order-of-the-red-dragon/](https://esotericbookshop.org/hermetic-order-of-the-red-dragon/)** To join, one needs attend at least 3 Invocation/Evocation workshops (Playing with Angels etc) & be sponsored by an existing member. Scio Nescio, Chief Adept …03 9873 3736 or email: esoteric666@optusnet.com.au Next meeting: Tuesday 24th February Email: esoteric666@optusnet.com.au Cost: $20

**The Harm and Value of Religion** We are looking at religion and what harm it does or what value it has for society if any. And why the recent increase in interest by intellectuals and atheists despite thinking it's obsolete. **VIDEOS** [We DON'T need RELIGION - Sam Harris vs Jordan Peterson](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fpIUjbWd5k) [Why Religion Does more Harm than Good in the World](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gp3pW_2E2BM) [Eric Weinstein - Why Nobody Believes In Anything Anymore](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwylZPb-HWs) **Discussion Outline** 1\. Can we perceive the world without a structure? 2\. Is religion harmful? 3\. Atheist: "Religion is interested in you whether or not you give a shit"

**Event Confirmation Form!** ➡️ We kindly request you fill out this **event confirmation form** to confirm your attendance for the event and your dietary requirements - [https://forms.gle/QwVc4QifPJqfvkd4A](https://forms.gle/QwVc4QifPJqfvkd4A) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## **What's On? ** **Panel:** State of Application Security: 2025 Trends, 2026 Strategy **Speakers:** * Jason Liyanage - Application Security Lead, Sportsbet * Louis Nyffenegger - Founder and CEO, PentesterLab * Raafey Khan - Director of Application Security, CyberCX **Abstract:** Application security is evolving faster than ever. This panel brings together practitioners, security leaders, and strategists for a candid look at what shaped AppSec in 2025 and what organizations are prioritizing in 2026. **The discussion will cover:** * **Vulnerability Trends** — What spiked, what persisted, and what caught teams off guard in 2025 * **Emerging Technologies** — New tools and capabilities are reshaping how applications are built, tested, and defended * **What Worked** — Strategies and approaches that genuinely moved the needle for security programs * **What's Next** — Bets organizations are placing bets for 2026, from new toolchains to shifting security culture Whether you're a hands-on practitioner or a security leader, this session offers grounded insights and forward-looking perspectives to help navigate the year ahead. *** *Placeholder abstract — subject to refinement once panelist details and discussion themes are confirmed.* ## **Location** Atlassian Melbourne Queens & Collins Building, Level 20, 100 Queen Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 ## **Agenda ⏰** * 5:30 - Food is served * 6:15 - Session start * 7:30 - Post-event networking \-\-\- Note: Please complete the event confirmation form: [https://forms.gle/QwVc4QifPJqfvkd4A](https://forms.gle/QwVc4QifPJqfvkd4A)

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!

Join us for a unique workshop hosted by Jenny Kuznetsova on Curative Eurythmy: Movement for everyday wellbeing, an introduction. Curative Eurythmy is a movement modality that creates harmony in the whole being. Through specifically curated movements, our three bodies, physical, etheric and astral are moved into incredible balance. The movements work strongly on the circulatory system and as such create organic deep activation of the breath. As the movements activate circulation in the body as well as flooding it with the health giving breath, the after effects create feelings of inner nourishment, strength and vitality. Curative Eurythmy is able to help with physical, emotional and mental imbalances as well as provide a general boost to our overall wellbeing that is so vital in an age where the nervous system is constantly overwhelmed with the pace of life. You are invited to try this unique and potent modality and experience the benefits firsthand. Non Members - $5 Entry, T.S. Members Complimentary.

**SECRET CELLAR DINNER:** **Riesling Rivals - Clare Valley versus Mount Barker (and Yarra Valley)** **Join us for a fun night of tasting, dining, and reminiscing about all things Riesling at our exclusive eight-guest Sommelier-led wine event!** THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT: [GET YOUR TICKET HERE](https://rieslingrivals.eventbrite.com.au) Join us for a special once-only exploration into these two (three) **Riesling Regions** ! Join our sommelier, Antony Anderson (WSET4), for a delightful evening of exploring the history and flavours of six cellared wines, from Australia's Clare Valley (SA)and Mount Barker (WA), over a perfectly matched three-course dinner (see the line-up below). This particular event compares and contrasts (mostly) two wineries: Skillogalee and Permission to Pivot (with a little Helen's Hill Yarra Valley thrown into the mix), and reveals how these wines are developing into exceptional wines when cellared properly. Aged Australian Rieslings are especially revered for their long-term cellaring potential, where they transform from fresh citrus and floral notes to complex honey, nutty, and toasty characters after a decade or more. This transformation is due to their high acidity, which acts as a natural preservative. Join us to explore these three wineries and three regions with Riesling's high acid which makes it a perfect pairing with rich seafood like salmon, which the wine's citrus-palate also compliments, hence the salmon-focussed menu. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to indulge in these fine wines from Australia, and expand your palate and wine knowledge - come share your favourite wine stories! The event will be held at **Life's Too Short Bar** located in Tribeca Arcade, Victoria Parade, East Melbourne VIC, Australia. Grab your ticket and get ready to sup, sip, savour, and socialise in a cosy atmosphere surrounded by fellow wine enthusiasts. See you there! **THE LINE UP:** **ARRIVAL** NV Skillogalee Sparkling Riesling **BRACKET 1** 2022 Skillogalee Riesling vs 2022 Permission to Pivot Riesling * *Hot Smoked Salmon, Neufchatel, Potato Rösti, Dijon & Mint Dressing (GF)* **BRACKET 2** 2021 Skillogalee Riesling vs 2019 Helen's Hill High Country Riesling * *Baked Norwegian Salmon, Whipped Potatoes, Hollandaise (GF)* * *Rocket, Pear, Walnut & Grana Padano Salad with Dijon Dressing (GF)* **BRACKET 3** 2021 Permission to Pivot L.S.D. Riesling * *Passionfruit & Lemon Curd Panna Cotta, Roasted Strawberries (GF)* **GETTING THERE:** We recommend you use public transport or rideshare. We are on the 12/109 tram line (stop 16, Wellington St), several Bus Routes (302, 303, 304, 305, 309, 318, 350, 905, 906, 907, 908) or a 5-10 minute walk from Jolimont and North Richmond train stations. If you decide to drive and/or have a designated driver, 2-hour paid parking is available around Powlett Reserve, Darling Square, and the Fitzroy Gardens. Extended paid parking is available at Care Park at 162 Albert Street, East Melbourne or the Epworth Freemasons Car Park in Gotch Lane off Grey Street. **UNABLE TO ATTEND?** Cancellations and Refunds are generally not possible. However, for sudden illness, COVID, or other special circumstances, we may agree to reschedule your session to another night or provide a gift certificate for part or all of your ticket price. Please SMS your request to 0466 045 473. **TERMS AND CONDITIONS:** * See the ticket link for further conditions * This is a pre-booked event, walk-ins are not possible. * RSVPs on Meetup do not constitute a booking. * Minimum Event Sales 6. If the minimum number of seats is not sold, the event may be rescheduled later or cancelled and tickets refunded. * If you have booked a ticket and an event is amended, we will contact you before the event to advise and make new arrangements. * Please note: By Public Health Directives, all attendees must be fully COVID-vaccinated, and proof of vaccination may be required. #meetingpeople #makingfriends #winetasting #blindtasting #winegames #singles #lonely #winelovers #winebuffs #winophiles #melbournewine #winemelbourne #melbournewinetasting #socialwines #makenewfriends #wine #lovers #tasting #event #meetup

Join Stephen Fiyalko, President of the Melbourne Theosophical Society for meditation, self attunement, study and discussion on the Laws of the Universe. We welcome all to join at 5:30pm for a 30 min Meditation and will begin the discussion group at 6:00pm. For those who prefer to just attend the discussion group you're welcome to arrive at 6pm. An understanding of and action within the Laws through our choices give practical tools for facing, managing and surmounting with confidence the many challenges we face in our daily lives, in society and the world itself. Ignorance of the Laws can leave us adrift to be buffeted and feel overwhelmed by stormy seas. Each week will look at one of the twelve Laws which are principles, not rules, seeking a deeper understanding of that Law, our and their inter-relationship with the other Laws. Discussion will involve sharing stories from our lives which contribute to a growing understanding and confidence in our lives. Each session is free, but donations are welcome.

The Humanist Monthly Program is our longest running event and still a community favorite. In the old days it used to be called "Going to HCCO" and we still like to think of it as our flagship event. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. Our March speakers are Molly Gaines and Zack Parrish, co-organizers of the Secular Education Association: They will share their story of how a small group of Ohio parents grew into a national organization tracking released-time religious instruction and other church–state issues in public schools. The presentation will cover SEA’s early wins and hard lessons, what we’re seeing nationally right now, and how local advocates can play a meaningful role in protecting public education. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of the landscape — and practical ways to get involved. Going forward our meetings will be hybrid. You can meet us in-person or attend online Join Zoom Meeting [https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1](https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87836564953?pwd=4Mi57ElZkDIFlb1fnlNwOJ0NiOK4tP.1) Meeting ID: 878 3656 4953 Passcode: 760812 One tap mobile +19292056099,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (New York) +13017158592,,87836564953#,,,,\*760812# US (Washington DC) The formal presentation will start at noon

Sleep in on Sundays. When you've had your fill of pajama-time, roll out and have some tasty brunch with your fellow Humanists!

ASH is Atheists, Skeptics and Humanists of First Unitarian Universalists of Columbus Ohio TBD Snacks are usually available, and you are welcome to bringing something to share!

Mental Health, how do you understand it? How can you improve it? How do you get rid of stress, anxiety and uncertainty? These emotions are buried deep in your reactive mind. Find out what the reactive mind is, and in the process find yourself. Have you ever suffered from a traumatic experience, a deep loss or been through a painful breakup? Has your ability to communicate suffered as a result? And after that, even though you "moved on" did you find that things were never quite the same? Have you ever looked at childhood photos, or reminisced your early life and wondered where that happiness and spark went? Are your emotions out of your own control? Have you ever felt, even if you aren’t aware of it, that possibly you are getting in your own way of your happiness and success? How does this affect your self-confidence? Find out what is at the root of all stress, anxiety, depression and self-doubt. Find out how and why you hold yourself back from achieving your goals and having the life you have dreamed of. As soon as you learn what is at the root of these unwanted conditions, you’ll see it is something you can DO something about. You will not be labeled or categorized at this MeetUp. This group is hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

We may pick a specific topic and post in advance or may discuss current events and various ad hoc topics . We would love to spend time hanging out and getting to know one another. Atheist, agnostics, other non-theists, and atheist-friendly people are welcome to join us. Note: COUNT operates a Facebook page at www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions (http://www.facebook.com/groups/COUNT.discussions/) to promote discussions among members and visitors.

Jimmy V's Grill & Pub in Grandview Heights. You are responsible for your own meal/drinks. We usually don't have any agenda other than eat, drink and talk. :) If the weather is nice we will be on the back patio, otherwise we are in the cigar room. This group has been meeting every Tuesday evening for over a decade. Many attendees do not RSVP on meetup. Please don't let the small number here discourage you. Anyone/everyone is welcome to come. We'd love to have you join us. COTA bus #5 comes to W. 5th and Wyandotte Rd. And it's a minute walk to the restaurant.