Support Group

Over the Easter long weekend, Bendigo’s beautiful Rosalind Park and surrounding streets will be transformed into a vibrant precinct bursting with family-friendly entertainment. An extensive program of activities and attractions offers something for all ages. Be in the hunt for 80,000 Easter Eggs on Good Friday, experience the thrills of Carnival Central, find a treasure at the Rotary Market, rock along to live music or keep the kids busy in a park filled with hands-on activities and performances. Dance, drums, Lion teams and 100,000 crackers are all part of Awakening of the Dragon, as Bendigo celebrates its Chinese heritage at the Dai Gum San Precinct. **For information on this festival:** [https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/whats-on/easter-sunday](https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/whats-on/easter-sunday "https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/whats-on/easter-sunday") and [https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/program](https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/program "https://www.bendigoeasterfestival.org.au/program") **Schedule:** **7:15am** meet at platform southern station Bendigo line (please check at the train station board for platform number) - Free public transport **7:40am** train departs and arrives at 9:55am then walk for 1km to View st **10:10am** meet at main entrance View street if you use your own transport. **10:15am - 12:10pm** Explore Queen Victoria garden Easter Sunday at the festival at Rosalind Park Hargreaves Mall Mundy Street **Optional** "DAI GUM SAN 9.30am-11.30am and 3pm-6pm Golden Dragon Museum" (entry fees apply) **12:15pm** head to McCrae Street corner with Mundy st **12:30pm to 2:00pm** Sherridon Homes Gala Parade - Parade Route: View Street, McCrae Street and Bridge Street. **2:30pm: 300pm** head to Bull Street for Bull Street Music Festival **3:00pm** head to Bendigo train station for **3:28pm** departure (train departs every one hour) **3:28** End of event Lots of food trucks to get Food and drinks Please note that it will be hard to keep the group together as crowd size may be around 80,000 people or more. Keep a note on our schedule on where we will be during the event. Look forward to having you join us for this exciting event. Rowan and John

Relaxed. Neurodivergent-friendly. Your night, your way. XP Nights are easygoing evening sessions for adults 18 and over, designed with neurodivergent comfort in mind. Each night, we choose what we want to do. No pressure, no fixed plan, just a variety of options to explore together. You might be into: 🎮 Console gaming 🎨 Creative activities 🎲 Board and card games 📺 Group watch parties 🛋️ Sensory-friendly Come solo or with a friend. There’s no pressure to talk, join every activity, or be anyone but yourself.

TO MAINTAIN A GENDER BALANCE ALL MALES MUST ATTEND WITH A FEMALE FRIEND, NO EXCEPTIONS. All females are welcome to attend alone but encouraged to attend with a female friend too for free drinks and food! MUST TAP “ATTEND” and include all guests. UNLIKE other meetups which are overwhelmingly male dominant, we provide ONLY gender balanced events where females also have a chance to meet other females, not only men. WE ARE COMMITTED TO EQUAL GENDER REPRESENTATION IN THE IT INDUSTRY. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

***Happy Easter long weekend!*** 🎉🥂 **Before daylight savings heads over the horizon, bounce upstairs like the Easter Bunny 🐰 to the stunning State of Grace Rooftop.** Bring good vibes to soak up the sunset and panoramic views of Marvelous Melbourne with friends old and new. Flying solo or new to the group? No worries, many of us are. Come say hi to Andy or Annita and we’ll do an intro with other members 💃🏽🕺🏽. ***If you’d like to come along and not yet paid the $12 member contribution for the next 12 months, please do so, and the easiest way is direct to the group's account -*** ***Andy Annita UE Account*** ***bsb 670864 acc 35256989 ref (your name).*** 🙏🏽😊. **See you there** 🥂🥳 🌅

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

Keep the energy high with our Sunday Pickleball Socials! Whether you’re playing for fun or looking for some friendly competition, this session is perfect for all skill levels. 💰 $20 per person \| 2\-hour session 🏓 Basic paddles & balls provided 👥 Approx. 7 players per court 🔥 Great for fitness & social play! 📍 Location: SPORTS POINT Altona North, Unit 1, 64-66 McArthurs Road, Altona North, VIC 3025 📞 Contact: 0403 556 859 \| ✉ Email: admin@sportspoint\.com\.au Register for SOCIALS using any of the below options: \- https://bookings\.sportspoint\.com\.au/ \- https://opensports\.net/sports\-point\-indoor\-pickleball/tab/events

Queer & Neurodiverse aims to offer a variety of social events for people of all genders, sexualities and ages (18+). We would like to provide opportunities for people to form meaningful connections in the real world. Whether you're a social butterfly, or a bit of a wallflower, we hope to create a pressure free space where you can just be yourself. Please join us for a relaxed social picnic at Footscray Park with some fellow queer and neurodiverse pals! Bring some food for yourself, or something to share, and a blanket/chair. Your hosts, Ben & Hamish, are both experienced mental health professionals who live with neurodiversity. We are both passionate about providing inclusive, friendly, and accessible spaces within our community. Discrimination, bullying, and harassment will not be tolerated. This event is support worker friendly and free of charge.

Come for lunch or a coffee and settle in for a meaningful conversation on "Finding Hope in Turbulent Times". We start our exploration using short selections from the Bahá’í teachings and other inspirational sources. The aim is to uplift, inspire and motivate; the conversation will benefit from all participants’ viewpoints. Community members of all ages, backgrounds, and beliefs are invited to contribute to elevated conversations, inquiry, consultation and learning. As we grow together and learn from one another we hope to build new connections, bridges of unity and respect for all humanity.

**༅།༅།Tibetan Art Group (TAG) – Learn Painting & Symbolism།།** A SPECIAL WORKSHOP DURING THE EASTER HOLIDAYS (IN MALVERN) Join TAG to explore Tibetan art and meet like-minded people. Workshops are creative, educational, and mindful (not therapy). **Current events (limited):** • Runs monthly or during holidays • Group bookings (5+) available anytime • CBD or Malvern (2–3 hrs) • All materials provided – take your artwork home **Pricing:** $25/hr full \| $15/hr concession Explore Buddhist iconographic painting through guided, hands-on practice—traditional symbolism, Buddha imagery, and unique designs in a relaxed setting. Led by a Tibetan practitioner with experience in community, school, TAFE and local govt programs. Open to all levels. Small group, supportive space. **Bookings:** Full payment secures your place. Limited spots (also listed on other platforms).

This Easter, we’re celebrating a little differently — with connection, conscious choices, and simple conversations around the things we often take for granted… like chocolate and coffee 🍫☕ Join Eco Impact Tribe for a relaxed Walk & Talk through the beautiful Royal Botanic Gardens. A chance to slow down, enjoy the sunshine, and explore how small everyday choices can create a wider impact. This is a casual and welcoming event for anyone who enjoys meaningful conversation, nature, and meeting like-minded people — without pressure or formality. We’ll gently explore ideas around fair trade, ethical consumption, and conscious living, keeping everything light, open, and conversational. If you like feel free to bring along an ethical or fair trade chocolate to share. **Meeting Point:** We’ll meet at the Kiosk of **The Observatory** **Café at 11:30 AM** inside the Royal Botanic Gardens, so you’re welcome to grab a coffee before we begin. If possible, bring your own takeaway cup. 📩 If you’re running late, please DM me! **Plan for the day:** • Meet and greet at the Observatory Cafe at 11:30AM ([https://maps.app.goo.gl/gskx6xgNiJF1f72g6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/gskx6xgNiJF1f72g6)) • Gentle group walk through the gardens • We stop at **Central Lawn** to connect and relax ([https://maps.app.goo.gl/EPbmiZzVk1wRoD989](https://maps.app.goo.gl/EPbmiZzVk1wRoD989)) **What to bring:** • Comfortable walking shoes • Water • Hat and sunscreen if it’s sunny • Have something to sit down • A reusable coffee cup (preferable) • Your good vibes Whether you’re new to sustainability or already passionate about it, this is a welcoming space to connect and reflect together. Happy Easter Everyone!

Join us for a special Easter themed Neurosparkles picnic on Easter Sunday at the Treasury Gardens near the water fountain. Come down, enjoy the sunshine (fingers crossed 🤞!), meet new people and share some Easter treats including chocolate eggs and hot cross buns! **When:** Easter Sunday 5th April **Time:** 12:30pm to 4:30pm **(come and go anytime)** **Where:** Treasury Gardens, John F Kennedy Memorial, look for a group of people sitting/standing next to the water fountain. It's located near the Old Treasury Building, the closest street is Treasury Place. **Feel free to bring a picnic blanket, board/card or garden games, food/drinks to share, or even some hot cross buns and Easter eggs - but this is entirely optional.** Pets are allowed if they're well-behaved ;) Though children are not as this is a Meetup group for adults. If you have issues finding us feel free to comment below or message an event host via Meetup or post in our WhatsApp/Discord community. Location is here: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/NE8AEc9kjrc4aARF8) What to bring (optional): * Picnic mats, foldable chairs, or blankets * Easter eggs, hot cross buns, snacks or drinks to enjoy or share * Games or cards if you’d like to keep things lively * Bug zapper to keep the pests away! Remember to stay hydrated, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen and insect repellent or use a zapper. In case of poor weather, we will move the meetup into the Kerekere Café at the Fitzroy Gardens or reschedule the event (check this page for any changes). Nearest transport: • Route 48 or 75 tram, Stop 9 (Lansdowne St) then 5 minute walk • Route 11, 12, 48 or 109 tram, Stop 8 (Collins/Spring St) then 7 minute walk • Short walk from Parliament Station **The event is open to all neurodivergent people and anyone who values a friendly, inclusive space. Many attendees come on their own, so if you’re feeling a bit hesitant, know you’ll be in good company and warmly welcomed.** If at any point you have concerns or feel uncomfortable about any group member, please notify one of the organisers. Disclaimer & Safety Notice By attending this Meetup, you agree: • Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. • Organisers are community volunteers, not medical or professional providers. • You are responsible for your own safety, choices, and belongings. • Organisers are not liable for injury, loss, or damage at any time. • If you have health or access needs, please make your own arrangements. • In an emergency, call 000 immediately. By joining, you accept full responsibility for your actions and well-being.

**Hosted by Unity of Columbus \| Facilitated by Carisa Holmes\, EFT Practitioner** Join us for a powerful and uplifting workshop where you’ll be introduced to **Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), also known as tapping**—a simple, effective method that helps release stress, calm the mind, and restore emotional balance. In today’s fast-paced world, many of us carry tension, anxiety, and emotional blocks that impact our well-being. This interactive session will guide you through practical techniques you can use anytime to create a sense of peace and clarity.

**Complex Trauma Support Group** Our group is intended for survivors of complex trauma. If you are here, it’s likely that so much of who you are and what you have experienced in this life is actually invisible to most people––to family, society, coworkers, and the people who are around you. We are a peer-led group of survivors creating opportunities for ourselves and others to share our experiences, share support, and build relationships in kind community together. Survivor experiences might include: child sexual abuse, incest, child trafficking, and other experiences of people living with traumatic dissociation and complex PTSD. **What to expect at your first meeting:** Currently, we are offering a bi-monthly in person group at 2:00pm on the first and third Sunday of the month. The only criterion for joining the group is that you are a survivor of trauma wishing to have more kindness in your own life and share kindness with others, and that you agree to practice to group’s relational agreements available for view here: https://www.kindgroups.com/agreements. Joining the group is free of charge. We ask that new people connect with us for 30 minutes on the phone or on zoom before coming to their first group, so that we can determine together that we are a good fit. Our meetings last approximately 90 minutes. Participants are never required to share. You’re also welcome to choose a pseudonym and you will never be asked for private information. You are welcome to leave at any time. The kindness that survivors can share when among others who have survived similar childhood experiences is something we rarely get to experience. Time spent with others who understand even a little bit more about us is a relief. Our hope is to help ourselves and others experience that we are not alone. We wish for our efforts to be a cause of kindness in our own lives and the lives of each other. You can read more about the groups at www.kindgroups.com.

This meeting will be a presentation by Brannan Kenny of Hadley about their free remote services. Target audience for this group is persons who are visually impaired, especially those who have experienced recent loss, however, all are welcome, including family members and supports. Light refreshments will be served. You can also join the meeting by Conference Call at (518) 263-8851.

**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.

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

Join Neurospicy Columbus at the Stauff's for coffee and then a stroll through the Book Loft nearby! This will be a friendly chat for like minded individuals with Autism and/or ADHD (or somewhere on the Neurodiverse Spectra).