Support Group

Welcome to the Melbourne 40+ gay men support group! My name is Steven Cabral and I am a trained group facilitator and counsellor. The idea for this support group was born out of a gap in community service that I observed where mature aged gay men could share and relate to each other in midlife. I found that most of the services seem geared towards the younger generation and rightly so, but I feel there is a particular experience in middle age and onwards that needs to be honoured, supported, and acknowledged. As we transition into a different phase of life, we are faced with a different set of challenges. It is my belief, from my own experience, that some of these are directly, but not exclusively, tied to our sexuality and that can influence self-actualisation later in life in various ways. Some of us may be carrying trauma from a time where we weren't as readily accepted. This may be seeping through other areas of our life and affecting our beliefs of self-worth and love, completely unbeknownst to us. Some of us may be feeling alone at this phase in our lives because we didn't follow the well worn societal map followed by the majority; such as having kids and partners. As a result, we may feel alone in a peer groups or especially within our own families. Some of us may simply be struggling to navigate this new phase and all that it entails ranging from dating in middle age to bigger questions of how to find meaning and purpose in our lives. Some of us may be dealing with grief. If any of this resonates with you, then I want you to know that you are not alone. My hope for the group is that you feel a sense of belonging and shared experience. That, in of itself, can be extremely healing. The group is not a substitute for therapy, but a safe space to share and connect with others on a similar journey and to find and give inspiration. The group is specifically targeted to gay men who are aged 40+ due to the topics covered. Due to the limitations of the space and the need to keep it intimate, there is a maximum of 10 attendees. Venue: Sussex Neighbourhood House Inc. 7 Prospect St, Pascoe Vale VIC 3044 Date/Times: Once a month on Mondays 7:30pm - 9:00pm \*\* Door will be closed 5 mins after group starts so as not to disrupt the group. Booking a spot in group: If it is fully booked, please ALWAYS go on Wait List - the app automatically gives you a spot as soon as someone drops out. I will reminding RSVP'd attendees to change their RSVPs to *Not Going* if they are no longer going, so that those on the Wait List get their place. If you regularly don't show up and don't let me know - I will be in contact to see if there are any issues. Fees: FREE - This is a once off event in consideration for this weeks group not running as anticipated. Guidelines: An opening creed will be read at the beginning of each group session. It is paramount though that ALL attendees feel safe, welcomed and respected at ALL times. The group acknowledges the traditional owners of the land and I'd also like to extend that acknowledgement to those with lived experience of mental health challenges. Thank you so much for reading this far - I look forward to meeting you in person. Remember, it only takes a baby step to start change. Please message me directly with any questions. Steven Cabral.

Join Queer Meditation Melbourne for an evening of self-exploration and mindfulness in a safe and inclusive space. Start the event with a guided meditation session focused on promoting wellness, positive thinking, and spiritual growth. Connect with like-minded individuals from the LGBT community and enjoy meaningful conversations that nurture self-empowerment and consciousness. After the meditation practice, we will engage in social activities, promoting healthy living and dining out experiences. This event is designed for gay men and gay and lesbian friends who are looking to nurture their spiritual journey while building connections within the community. Come together to foster a sense of belonging and support each other in a space that celebrates diversity and self-care.

Play board games with around 20 people on 5+ tables in Elsternwick. Friendly. Inclusive. Free entry, Crunchy Euro and Thematic games. Close to public transport and free parking. Exclusive use of a function room with good lighting at the Caulfield RSL. Join our group in the Aftergame App to stay in touch: https://aftergame.app/groups/bayside-games-1853 Games are sometimes organised in advance on our WhatsApp group or in the Aftergame app, however most games are organised following a brief discussion at the venue on the Monday night. Recently we have played the following games: Euros: Brass, Dune Imperium, Anachrony, Endeavor Deep Sea, Inis, On Mars, Ark Nova, Galactic Cruise, Viticulture, Scythe, Concordia, Terra Mystica, Gaia Project, Terraforming Mars, Castles of Burgundy, Lost Ruins of Arnak and Grand Austria Hotel, and Orleans Economic: Indonesia, Food Chain Magnate, Bus, Irish Gauge and Container. Thematic: Voidfall, Dune (Original), Root, Eclipse, Nemesis, Spirit Island, Undaunted, Chaos in the Old World, The Godfather, Spartacus and Dominant Species. **Arrive early** The best time to arrive is around 6:50pm as people discuss which games they would like to play before starting longer games at 7:00pm. Arrive early and we can ensure that you are included in a game. However, should you arrive after 7:00pm you may need to wait for games to finish to be included, or if people are playing long games, it might not be practical to start a new game. **Full bar and snacks available** The Caulfield RSL generously provide the venue free of charge. A selection of food and drinks are available for purchase at the bar. Note that only food or drink purchased at the RSL can be consumed at the venue. We look forward to seeing you!

**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.

The Buddhist spiritual path centres on our own mind’s vast potential for peace, compassion and wisdom. True lasting happiness does not depend on external factors but comes from looking inwards to better know our own mind and heart. This course presents key insights from the Buddha’s life and teachings to show how, through meditation and shifting our focus inwards, we can find true, unending contentment. This course presents key Buddhist frameworks that guide our path, including: * The three vehicles of Buddhism, which progressively show how we can nurture our innate peace, compassion and wisdom. * The four seals, which encapsulate what is unique about the Buddha’s teachings and sets them apart from other religions and philosophies. Including teachings from foremost Tibetan masters of our time, space for contemplation, reflection and discussion, and guided meditations, this course will give you practical tools to help you work with your mind and take charge of your spiritual path. **Details** Where: Attend in person at Rigpa Melbourne, 803 Nicholson Street Carlton North. **When**: Monday evenings, for 9 weeks, starting 27 April 2026, a break on 8 June 2026, and finishing 29 June 2026. **Time**: 7.00pm – 9.00pm AEDT. **Cost**: 9-week module: Full $180, Concession $90. **Register here:** [https://rigpa.org.au/event/this-life-the-buddhas-guide-to-inner-transformation-melbourne-april-june-2026/2026-04-27/](https://rigpa.org.au/event/this-life-the-buddhas-guide-to-inner-transformation-melbourne-april-june-2026/2026-04-27/)

A mix of dance classes, connections & laughter! We love offering a diverse range of moves to keep things fresh and exciting, and it’s always amazing to see our dance community connecting on and off the dance floor. It’s all about coming together, learning, and having fun! Brighton Beach Bowls Club 2B South Rd Brighton 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm Beginner & Intermediate levels $25 CASH or PAYID

Join in at 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra for the Mental Health Foundation Australia Monthly Depression Support Group. Introducing Akshay as our current facilitator. Akshay has completed a Bachelor of Psychological Sciences and is passionate about understanding and managing depression, anxiety and stressed based disorders. Akshay takes a non-judgemental, compassionate approach to addressing mental health issues and engages participants to share in a positive and safe environment. Come along and be with people who understand and share in your experiences. They may start out as strangers but they will quickly become friends. To register your attendance please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/depression-support-group](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/depression-support-group) You can also sign up for the Online Depression Support Group which is held on the second Monday of each month on the same page. For other MHFA support groups please see: [https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/](https://supportgroup.mhfa.org.au/) If you need any further information feel free to contact us at supportgroup@mhfa.org.au

• What we'll do Hi Meetup members, we do not post any of our catch ups though Meetup.com anymore, once you've been approved for our private Facebook group, you will get all the details you need from us there. We have had to do this to protect our many members from fraudulent visitors. I hope you understand! Please still apply to join meetup, and then once approved through here, you will be sent the information required. • What to bring • Important to know

Hey everyone 🙂 After a great first event, I’m hosting a second relaxed afternoon music jam in Melbourne for people who enjoy creativity, connection, self-expression, and meeting new people. This will be a safe and welcoming space to explore expression through music, whether you’re experienced or just starting out. Vocalists, instrumentalists, loop artists, songwriters, and people of all skill levels are welcome. An amp, acoustic guitar, keyboard, and RC300 Loop Station will be provided, but feel free to bring your own instruments as well. If you’ve been working on original songs and would like to share them and get supportive feedback, that’s also very welcome 🙂 Feel free to bring food, drinks, instruments, snacks, or anything else you’d like to share with the group. Please RSVP on the Meetup platform and also message me before the event date to confirm your attendance, as there will only be space for 3 females and 3 males to help keep the group balanced. We’ll meet near Coulson Gardens Playground 35–55 Chifley Dr, Maribyrnong VIC 3032 If you have any questions or you can’t find us on the day, please text me (Deborah), the event organiser, on 0422410522 🙂

**You are invited to our men's conversation group, the Men Being Well program** run by Relationships Australia Victoria and Life Is Foundation. This free program is for men to meet, discuss and explore wellbeing through **connection**, **reflection** and **peer support**. **IN-PERSON Men's Gathering on Wed 27th MAY at 7 to 9 PM** Men Being Well hosts monthly Men’s Gatherings or conversation groups and several all-day Men’s Retreats throughout the year. Our events are aimed at positive mental health and wellbeing for men and include regular discussion about life issues and challenges. The relaxed format is welcoming and a safe place to reflect on your personal journey. We hope you can join us in Canterbury, Melbourne and look forward to relaxed and thoughtful discussion. *Please contact us via email (or message us on Meetup) for address details and a brief chat if you are coming along for the first time.* Please email us and join our mailing list as well: **menbeingwell@rav.org.au** Visit our webpage for more dates and information about the Men Being Well program: [www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/relationships-wellbeing-courses/men-being-well/](https://www.relationshipsvictoria.org.au/relationships-wellbeing-courses/men-being-well/) Regards from your Men Being Well Program Facilitators

**The idea for this group is to build a community where men can gather together and build connections & learn and grow from each other.** How we start each meeting is by each of us checking in with our "roses and thorns" aka what are the good things and the bad things going on in your life recently? Then we will go into a topic discussion. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **COMMUNITY AGREEMENTS** \*\*THERE WILL BE A ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY FOR NO-SHOWS. IF YOU RSVP TO A MEETING AND FAIL TO SHOW UP WITHOUT NOTICE, YOU'LL BE REMOVED FROM THE GROUP. THIS IS TO PRESERVE THE INTEGRITY OF THE GROUP\*\* 1. Confidentiality - EVERYTHING that is shared NEVER leaves this space so that this space remains safe and sacred. There is a zero tolerance policy for this. If a man is in violation of this, they will be permanently removed from the group. 2. Non-Judgement - we respect and honor every man’s truth so that we may receive the same from others. While we may not agree on everything, we commit to respecting every man’s perspectives and engaging in honorable discussion with one another. 3. Be committed - honor your commitment to this group and to yourself. If you attend a meeting, please commit yourself fully to the meeting. Also be committed to your own journey. When we fail, we own it & clean it up. 4. Speak from the heart - this is NOT a space to “look good”, have the “right” answers, and have it all together. Relax and know you are not alone. Be exactly who you are within the safety of this space. 5. Be supportive - This means always willing to provide encouragement to your fellow men, encourage action and momentum in each other’s lives.. Be willing to challenge each other. Be willing to hold each other accountable. 6. Participation - what you receive from this community will be a reflection of what you put into it. Period. We ask that you share your perspectives, reflect on others, and give/receive support when and where it’s needed.

NOTICE CHANGE OF LOCATION. WE WILL BE MEETING AT THE SHARON WOODS METRO PARK - THIS MONTH ONLY. Sharon Woods Metro Park, 6911 Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43081 Enter the park from Cleveland Avenue and stay on the main park drive until it dead-ends into a turn around parking lot. We will meet at the Schrock Lake Shelter just off this parking area to the right. We will be taking a Guided Walk with access very near the shelter, on the Edward S Thomas trail, an ADA flat, hard-packed gravel surface trail. This walk will be led by Carrie Keller, Outdoor Naturalist at the park, and Megan Richley, Inclusion Coordinator for the Metro Parks. Wear sneakers or other shoes covering the entire foot. Sandals or flip-flops are ill advised. Sighted guides will be available. 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. There will not be a Conference Call option for this meeting.

Join us for the first gathering of The Pause Collective — a supportive meetup for neurodivergent women navigating perimenopause, menopause, burnout, overwhelm, and life transitions. This will be a relaxed, low-pressure coffee shop meetup focused on connection and conversation. No need to prepare anything. No pressure to share. Come as you are. We’ll spend time getting to know each other, talking about what brought us here, and exploring what kind of community we’d like to create together. This space is neurodivergent-affirming, self-diagnosis-friendly, and supportive of different communication styles and energy levels.

**Welcome to the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentucky’s Support Group.** *\*\*This meeting has been moved to the 4th Monday of each month.* This group is a safe space for **survivors of traumatic and acquired brain injuries**, as well as their **families and caregivers**, to find support, share experiences, and connect with others who understand the journey. Whether you're newly injured, a longtime survivor, or supporting a loved one, you’ll find comfort, information, and encouragement here. Our professionally facilitated groups offer a confidential, compassionate setting for healing, learning, and growing together. Join us to discover the power of community—because no one should walk this road alone. *All survivors of ABI/TBI and those who care for them are welcome.* \* This meeting is for persons with brain tumors and their guests. \*\* This is a hybrid meeting. For those meeting in-person dinner is served at 5:45pm. Online begins at 6:30pm.

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.