Sustainable Transportation

**Register now to attend! =>** [https://konfhub.com/ksug-au-2026-03-12](https://konfhub.com/ksug-au-2026-03-12) **<=** **Latest promotions** discovered by our community! * Missed **75%** off [LF / CNCF](https://lf.ksug.ai/)? [Get Notified](https://ksug.ai/?notify&ref=meetup) for next BIG drop! * **20%** off [KubeCon Europe](https://ksug.ai/events/?ref=meet) 2026 using code **KSAI20** * Up to **30%** off popular [Books](https://ksug.ai/books/?ref=meet) and [Events](https://ksug.ai/events/?ref=meet) We're excited to welcome you to the upcoming Hands-on workshop — happening in-person at at Amazon ! 🎉 We're actively seeking more awesome AI topic speakers! 👉 [https://speaker.ksug.ai](https://speaker.ksug.ai) **About the event** Learn how to deploy and scale AI applications using Amazon EKS (Elastic Kubernetes Service). This hands-on workshop demonstrates how to build a complete generative AI platform with automated cluster management, hybrid infrastructure, and enterprise-grade observability. **What You'll Learn:** * Leverage EKS Auto Mode for automated Kubernetes cluster management * Architect hybrid node pools for optimal performance and cost efficiency * Implement end-to-end observability and LLM serving with vLLM **Hands-on Lab Experience:** Learn directly from AWS experts who have helped organizations successfully deploy and manage large-scale GenAI infrastructure. Through hands-on labs and real-world examples, you'll learn to master: * EKS cluster setup optimized for NVIDIA GPU workloads * Efficient model serving and scaling using vLLM * Distributed inference architecture implementation with Ray * Comprehensive monitoring and observability using Prometheus and Grafana * Best practices for production GenAI deployments on Kubernetes. **Who Should Attend:** Whether you're looking to deploy your first language model or scale existing GenAI workloads, this workshop will provide you with best practices and hands-on experience using industry-leading tools and frameworks. **Requirements:** * Bring your laptop and power adapter * AWS account access will be provided * Basic familiarity with cloud infrastructure concepts * Basic Kubernetes concepts Through guided exercises, you'll gain practical experience deploying and managing enterprise AI applications on AWS infrastructure. **Full Agenda** **Introduction - AI Platform on Kubernetes** 09:30 - 09:45 GMT+11 Nikola Cuca & Hantzley Tauckoor Explore the fundamentals of running AI/ML workloads on Kubernetes and understand why container orchestration is crucial for GenAI deployments. Learn key concepts and benefits of running AI platforms on Amazon EKS. **Hosting inference workloads on Amazon EKS** 09:45 - 10:30 GMT+11 Frank Fan Deep dive into designing scalable AI architectures that combine cloud and on-premises resources using Amazon EKS, focusing on inferencing. **Hands-on: Explore environment, vLLM model loading, scaling vLLM** 10:30 - 12:00 GMT+11 Frank, Don & Parikshit Hand-on labs on inferencing on EKS using vLLM **Lunch Break** 12:00 - 13:00 GMT+11 **Voice of customers & panel discussion** 13:00 - 14:00 GMT+11 Panel Hear from existing customers who implemented similar architectures in their production environment. **Introduction to monitoring and observability** 14:00 - 14:15 GMT+11 Melchi & Parikshit Explore observsability stack for AI on EKS **Hands-on: Observing LLM Inference workloads** 14:15 - 15:45 GMT+11 Don, Frank & Melchi Hand-on labs on observsability stack for AI on EKS **Quiz & Wrap-up** 15:45 - 16:00 GMT+11 Nikola & Hantzley Interactive knowledge check covering key concepts learned throughout the workshop. Review of best practices, Q&A session, and discussion of next steps for implementing GenAI workloads on EKS. **[Register here](https://konfhub.com/ksug-au-2026-03-12) to secure your spot!** See you all there! **Location:** Amazon MEL12, Level 13.304 [555 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Kbi13GZqj2zDqDz2A) 👉 Join our [Discord](https://discord.com/invite/Rp9WzYyKua) and [WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D9a9IDiCS7U4cqQ0Sh60cz?mode=gi_t) for latest update! 🔖 𝐎𝐧𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐬: ☸ 30% OFF **[Kubernetes](https://lf.ksug.ai/)** Certs - Code: **30K8SUG** ☸ 37% OFF **[KodeKloud](https://ksug.ai/kk/?ref=meet)** Plans - Code: **K8SUGKK** 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐖𝐞 𝐃𝐨 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬: ✅ Learn 𝐅𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 ⚡ ✅ Certify 𝐒𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐑 💰 ✅ Grow 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑 💪 𝟐𝟎𝟎,𝟎𝟎𝟎+ follow **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** 🔥 [linktr.ee/ksug.ai](https://linktr.ee/ksug.ai) *By registering, you consent to the management of your personal information in accordance with KSUG.AI Meetup's [Privacy Policy](https://k8sug.ai/privacy). Additionally, you agree that our sponsors may contact you.* **[KSUG.AI](https://ksug.ai/?ref=meet)** is an independent community and not affiliated with or endorsed by CNCF. Kubernetes, K8s, Kubestronaut are registered trademarks of The Linux Foundation.

2026 is here and we are excited to announce Nosh Darbari, Human Centred Service Designer giving our first talk on "Hidden drivers behind good Design work." This talk will explore how Cognitive Load is a precursor to mental health and well-being. Nosh leads with his heart. Innovates with Purpose and Consciousness. He's an internationally experienced product and service designer working at the intersection of technology and human centred experience. Most recently he has worked within the vast and often tangled landscape of a federal government organisation. He thrives in complexity, despite the frustrations. Every challenge is a chance to design better systems or services with more human experiences. Beyond the 9-to-5, Nosh is a seeker of stillness. He chases sunrises and sunsets, not just for their beauty, but for the quiet lessons they offer — presence, perspective, and peace. Nosh also helps people recognise the early signals of stress before burnout takes hold. He helps them to rediscover their point of stability and offers simple, practical tools to navigate the noise of modern life with clarity and care. Event will start at 5:30pm with Pizza, Drinks and networking with the talk starting at 6pm. We are in the Jenny Florence Room on Level 3 at The Ross House Association. **Please enter code #219851 and come up to level 3 where you will need to enter the code again to gain access.** This event is sponsored by [askable](https://www.askable.com/) ([https://www.askable.com/](https://www.askable.com/)) and Experience Design "UX" Agency [blueegg](http://www.blueegg.com.au/) ([http://www.blueegg.com.au/](http://www.blueegg.com.au/))

Salut a tous/Hi everyone Venez nous rejoindre chez Annie Lewis le mercredi 11 mars a 6.30 pm pour bavarder en francais. Ce sera une autre occasion pour se souhaiter bonne annee Annie Lewis se trouve au 138 Bridge Rd, a Richmond. Prenez le tram 48 ou 75 vers Bridge Rd, et decendez a l'arret numero 15. Please join us all at Annie Lewis on Wednesday 11 March at 6.30 pm to chat in French. This will be another opportunity to wish each other Happy New year. Annie Lewis is at 138 Bridge Rd, in Richmond. To get there, catch the 48 or 75 tram and get off near the Epworth hospital (stop 15) Annie Lewis is across the road from the Epworth, a short distance past Lennox street. We have all levels in our group so come along regardless of your ability. As long as you're prepared to give it a go, you'll have a great time and will improve in no time. We ask for a $2 donation to keep the group online at meetup.com. Unfortunately the fee for meetup.com is ever increasing, so we do need your support and contribution to keep this group going. Please - if you RSVP 'YES" it means you're coming and we'll book the space accordingly. Please respect that it is inconvenient if you don't show up - just change your RSVP to 'NO'. C'est façile! \*\* Please note that although we set a start time of 6.30pm, feel free to come at any time. What we aim for is to have one of the organisers present at the time mentioned, but its whatever is best for you! \*\* Please turn on email notifications in settings of meetup so, if I message you , you are aware and can respond and can keep up with changes to events you have RSVPed to. A bientot, Michael/Daniel.

Let's have fun while watching the night view with our friends! 🏃‍♂️Training menu🏃‍♂️ Every Wednesday 6:00p.m~ Fed Square Assembly 【https://maps.app.goo.gl/zmPQ6U533pUDcNSA9?g_st=ic】 If you have luggage, please consider using the lockers at the station. 💥40~60 min Jog+Walk Pace: Easy pace, suitable for beginners. If you got tired, let's walk together. 【schedule】 6:00 p.m Gathering 6:10 p.m Start 7:00 p.m End of training Challengers we are waiting for you 😊

RSVP on https://www.meetup.com/gdg-melbourne/events/313154207/ We at GDG Melbourne and Women Techmakers Melbourne are holding a night of talks, food and networking for International Women's Day! All genders and all levels of technical expertise welcome! Codeword: IWD Our friends at Block are hosting us at their office, make sure you check the address - it is different to our usual venue! We have two great sessions lined up: Thao Tran: When Tech Turns Personal: A Human Story of Digital Safety, Resilience and Recovery" Thao is the founder of Ditox, a digital health and wellness company that helps organizations, families and individuals to reduce digital behavioral and mental health issues and improve social connection in a hyper-connected digital world. Leadership & Career discussion panel Hosted by Katie Barnett (Engineering Manager at Bilue, GDE Android, WTM Ambassador) Agenda *** Hosted By Katie Barnett, GDE Android / GDG Organiser Katie is passionate about all things Android. She has taken on a wide variety of challenging projects including in the live event, media and travel space. Her favourite thing is to see someone having a delightful experience using something she has worked on. Katie is very active in the development community, she is a Google Developer Expert for Android, one of the organisers of GDG Melbourne and is a Women Techmakers Ambassador. She frequently runs events, speaks on technical and non-technical topics and enjoys writing blog posts to share her experience with others. Katie is based in Melbourne, Australia but loves to travel the world and outside of tech she enjoys boardgaming and attempting to finish many craft projects. Suesi Tran, Senior Flutter Developer Google Developer Expert in Dart, Flutter & Firebase, Women Techmaker Melbourne ambassador, GDG Melbourne & Flutter Melbourne co-organiser. In short: Flutter is love, and mobile is life. Poornima Sivakumar, GDG Organiser Lovee Jain, GDG Organiser Lovee is a Software Engineer at Prezzee, a GDG Melbourne Organiser and also a Women Techmakers Ambassador. A tech inquisitive philomath, she loves problem solving and solution design. She has worked at a city council where she developed a lot of useful system integrations and while at Prezzee she develops and works on multiple gift card solutions to cater the B2B2C market. Zach Jensz, GDG Organiser Passionate about the web, seamless UX and accessibility. I love attending meetups, find me and come say hi! Ujjawal Raj, GDG Organiser Bramley Turner-Jones, GDG Organiser Yuba Raj (UV) Panta, GDG Cloud Organiser Kartik Arora, Android Engineer Google Developer Expert in Android Android Engineer @ Bilue Carolyn Ai Chi Wong, *** Partner Block (https://block.xyz) *** Complete your event RSVP here: https://gdg.community.dev/events/details/google-gdg-melbourne-presents-international-womens-day/.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we’re gathering for an intimate women’s dinner in Richmond. This evening is a space for thoughtful conversation around sustainability, leadership, and the everyday actions that shape our communities. Unlike a structured workshop, this is a curated dinner designed for meaningful exchange — women who care about impact, growth, and living consciously. We’ll explore: ✨ What leadership looks like in everyday life ✨ How sustainability intersects with career and values ✨ The kind of future we want to help build Seats are intentionally limited to 12 to keep the conversation personal and impactful. **Please note:** Registration is required via Humanitix. The exact Richmond location will be shared upon confirmed booking. Reserve your seat here: https://events.humanitix.com/her-impact-our-planet

* Saturday evening should be pleasant after 25°C during the day \* **Ride**: An easy pace late afternoon / early evening ride via the bike paths and up the Maribyrnong River trail to the lookout in this event's cover photo. We'll have something to eat (Fish and chips / Chinese, etc) nearby in Ascot Vale before returning to the city via the new Veloway. *Note: The sun will set before we finish so you will need your lights.* **Forecast:** 25°C and mostly sunny. Light winds becoming southeast to southwesterly 15 to 20 km/h during the day. https://reg.bom.gov.au/places/vic/aberfeldie/forecast/detailed/#d2026-03-14 **Bike**: Any mechanically sound bicycle. Lights should be fitted. Pump to firm & check your tyres, please. **Speed**: 22 km/h max on the flat **Distance**: 30 km return We meet in Docklands near the ferry terminal and ride via Docklands Hwy path to the Maribyrnong River. We'll follow the bike path upstream as far as Aberfeldie to check out the views from the higher riverbank opposite the Dept of Defence. Then we'll turn back to Ascot Vale to have something to eat in Union Rd before cycling our way past the racecourse and showgrounds, going back to town on the river path and the Dixon Veloway above Footscray Rd. **Map**: [https://ridewithgps.com/routes/6985629](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/6985629) \* \*Actual route may vary on the day **Bring**: \- Water\, spare tube\, pump and any tools\, \- Bike lights \- A jacket for later\, \- Your phone with my number\. **Contact**: Neil Griffiths, 0419 560 409 \***Photo**: Aberfeldie view over the river - Feb '15 "All riders are riding at their own risk and Melbourne Cycling does not take any responsibility for any injuries or accidents you may have on any of our rides"

If you’re pursuing a career in **tech architecture**, I’d love you to join this upcoming event organised by **Women in Architecture Australia**! Please make sure to **register on Humanitix** (RSVP on Meetup won’t secure your spot): https://events.humanitix.com/women-in-architecture-networking-event-in-melbourne-xu49tqj2 I’m partnering with and supporting **Women in Architecture Australia** in their mission to create a more inclusive and diverse architecture community. If you’re exploring or growing your career in architecture, you’re more than welcome to join us for this inspiring and supportive session. Careers in architecture rarely follow a straight line. They’re shaped by ambition, opportunity, trade-offs, and the realities of life outside of work. Join us this International Women’s Day for an evening of honest conversation, shared experience, and community connection as we explore: #### **Balancing Ambition, Life, and Leadership: Navigating a Career in Architecture** This panel will spotlight the career journeys in architecture and tech, and unpack what it really takes to build a sustainable, meaningful leadership path in the profession. 🎙 **Moderator:** Gretchen Scott, Kaleida 🎙 **Panellists:** **[Whitney Cali](https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-cali-4474984/) -** Group Executive - Product, Technology and Data - LMG **[Fiona Mahony](https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-mahony-99890513/) -** [Enterprise Architecture Principal - Telstra](https://www.linkedin.com/company/1636/) **[Sangeeta Vishwanath](https://www.linkedin.com/in/sangeetavishwanath/) -** [Head of Digital - Mantel](https://www.linkedin.com/company/13577383/) **Timing:** 5:30 pm – Arrival / Networking 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Panel Discussion 7:30 pm onwards – Networking Keep an eye on our LinkedIn page for any updates: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-in-architecture-wia-australia/](https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-in-architecture-wia-australia/) *** #### What to Expect **Real Career Stories** Hear how our panellists have navigated key career moments, leadership growth, and challenges along the way. **Ambition and Sustainability** Explore how women balance progression, personal priorities, and long-term success in architecture roles. **Leadership Without the Stereotypes** Discuss what leadership looks like today, and how to build influence in your own style. **Inclusion and Representation** Reflect on the importance of diversity in architecture and the pathways needed to bring more women into the profession. **Networking & Community** Stay after the panel to connect with peers and be part of a supportive architecture community. *** **Who Should Attend?** This is for anyone working in, alongside, or curious about architecture and tech, including students, grads, practitioners, leaders, allied professionals and supporters of inclusive workplaces. **Why Attend?** * Gain practical insight into career development and leadership * Meet and learn from accomplished women in the field * Expand your network across architecture and technology * Support a more inclusive and diverse profession \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Follow me on LinkedIn for more information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yana-martens/ Just moved to Australia? Grab your FREE guide to land your first tech job! [https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/](https://yanamartens.com/first-tech-job-in-australia/)

**About this event:** Have you been dreaming of going tiny? Are you curious about minimal living, off-grid setups, or just downsizing your life in Victoria? You are not alone! We are launching a new community for enthusiasts to connect, share stories, and support one another. (Please book ticket in EventBrite [here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/monthly-minimal-living-meetup-tiny-home-tickets-1983064391979?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl) ) Imagine a life with less clutter, less debt, and more freedom. We are building a community in Victoria for those who want to step away from the traditional housing market and embrace tiny homes and minimal living. For our first-ever meetup, we are keeping it simple. We’ll meet in the park to introduce ourselves and discuss what we want to create together. Whether you want to talk about the technical side (trailers, solar, regulations) or the lifestyle side (downsizing, remote work), this is the place to start. Come along, make new friends, and let’s talk about how to make big dreams happen in tiny spaces. Please book your ticket https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/monthly-minimal-living-meetup-tiny-home-tickets-1983064391979?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl **What to expect:** This is a strictly casual, unstructured meetup. No presentations, no sales pitches, and no pressure. Just a relaxed afternoon in the park with like-minded people. We’re simply gathering to discuss: * Who is already living the tiny life? * Who is dreaming/planning? * What are the local hurdles (council rules, finding land, etc.)? * How can we support each other? **Who should come:** Whether you have your tiny house plans drawn up, you're already living in one, or you just watched a documentary and thought "I could do that"—you are welcome here. **What to bring:** * A camping chair or picnic rug. * Your own snacks/drinks. * Sun protection (or an umbrella—it is Melbourne/Victoria after all!). **About Your Host** Hi, I’m Karen. After exploring over 50 countries, I’ve chosen Melbourne as my home. As an entrepreneur, I’ve come to realize that we don't need much to be truly happy. In fact, nature provides us with so many "free luxuries"—from sunlight to green spaces—that we often overlook in the modern world. I am channeling this philosophy into building my own tiny home in Victoria this year. I started this group because I realized that while the tiny house movement is growing, the journey can feel a bit lonely. I want to build a supportive local community where we can share resources, untangle the regulations, and help each other turn these small dreams into reality. * **Wet Weather Plan:** (e.g., "If it rains, we will move to a cafe close by.")

***One incredibly awesome gig @ Transport Bar with Woody Samson!*** With his guitar, trumpet, piano, drum machines, and a five-octave vocal range, Woody turns every set into a full-scale experience, and its all about great music, good vibes, and fun times all round! 💃🏽🕺🏽 New to the group or flying solo? No worries, many of us are. Come say hi to Andy or Annita and we’ll do an intro with other members. We'll have a reserved area in the 'Glasshouse' area where the band is, and let the good times roll! 💃🏽🎉🍸🕺🏻. If you haven't yet paid your $12 membership fee for the group, please do so to attend this event directly to the group's account - Andy Annita UE Account bsb 670864 acc 35256989 ref (your name) **Thank you!**

Join us on Friday, March 13th, 2026, for Workplace Ninja User Group Australia in Melbourne. As a standout conference on endpoint management, Workplace Ninja provides the stage for workplace management and security professionals to share insights on their journey towards modern management and cloud native. Agenda: 09:00 - 09:15 - Welcome with **Jose Schenardie** 09:15-10:05 - **Cut the Sneaky DNS: Zero Trust DNS on Windows 11 - Steve Mercer** 10:05-10:30 - Short break 10:30-11:20 - **What's new (and next) in Windows 365 and Azure Virtual Desktop - Matt Shadbolt** 11:20-11:40 - Sponsored Session 11:40-12:30 - Lunch break 12:30-13:20 - **App Control for Business Deep Dive - Nathan Atkins** 13:20-13:35 - Short break 13:35-14:25 - **Remote Help for Intune - Is this the cloud native support saviour we have been waiting for? - Sean Ollerton** 14:25-14:40 - Short break 14:40-15:30 - **Vibe Coding: Infra as Code for Windows Management with Intune - Steven Hosking** 15:30-15:45 - Short break 15:45-17:00 - **AMA with Speakers** 17:00-18:00 - **Networking and Refreshments** We look forward to seeing you there.

Our 20th Altona weekly evening ride in its 12th season. Only a few to go before daylight saving ends on Easter Sunday, 5th April \* Td'A is a 50km evening ride in the daylight saving months and intended for intermediates due to the speed and headwinds. We cycle on bike paths to Williamstown and Altona and return in the dark on paths and roads. Meeting in South Wharf at Jeff's Shed on Clarendon St, we ride through Docklands to Williamstown for a short break then continue on the coastal path to the seaside suburb of Altona for a quick bite (30mins or so) in the park opposite the fish and chip shop and other eateries. Usually, we're back in town around 9:30pm. **Forecast:** 19°C, 0 - 1mm rainfall. Cloudy. Medium chance of showers, most likely in the morning and afternoon. Winds southwesterly 15 to 25 km/h turning southerly 20 to 30 km/h during the morning. Check this link before the ride date: https://reg.bom.gov.au/places/vic/altona/forecast/detailed/#d2026-03-12 *Strong winds are the usual experience on this ride making it unsuitable for beginners whenever blowy which is most of the time.* **Bike:** Any mechanically sound bicycle. Check it and pump your tyres before coming. MTBs may struggle. **Lights:** Excellent lights that illuminate the path are essential. Consider bringing spare lights. **Speed:** 25 km/h typically on paths where appropriate and faster on a few roads but it is mostly paths. You can be sure of headwinds by the coast. **Distance:** 50 km for the round trip **Map:** https://ridewithgps.com/routes/6954193 \* \* Actual route may vary on the night **Bring:** \- Water\, jacket\, Myki\, tube\, tools\, bright bike lights\, \- Your phone with my number\. \- Emergency Contact Details \* **Contact:** Neil Griffiths - 0419 560 409 **Photo:** Altona Sunset- Feb '26 **\*EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS** : Please ensure you carry these on you in case of a medical emergency. ie Family member's name, phone number and relationship (eg, Sister). Written down preferably and with your personal items so it can be found by emergency personnel. There is a link to a template in our Meetup homepage (browser) down in the discussion area. https://www.meetup.com/melbournecycling/discussions/ "All riders are riding at their own risk and Melbourne Cycling does not take any responsibility for any injuries or accidents you may have on any of our rides"

**Black Hill Regional Park → Paris Baguette (Germantown)** **Sunday \| March 22\, 2026 \| 10:00 AM** **Join us for a Sunday morning in nature, centered on meaningful conversation along the trail.** **We’ll meet at the Black Hill Regional Park Visitor Center parking lot around 10:00 AM and spend about 60–90 minutes on the scenic lake trails, surrounded by water, trees, and open sky. The morning setting offers space to be present, notice the landscape, and let conversation unfold naturally as we walk.** **After our time on the trails, we’ll continue on to Paris Baguette in Germantown Town Center for coffee or a pastry and keep the conversation going.** **This group is for gay men who enjoy being outdoors, care about how food is grown and gathered, appreciate thoughtful conversation, and value authentic friendships built at a natural pace. This is not a hookup space, a dating pool, a nightlife extension, or a professional networking circle. The aim is simply to share time outdoors, exchange ideas, and see what connections take root from there.** **What to bring:** * **Comfortable walking shoes** * **Water** * **Weather-appropriate layers** **Feel free to arrive a few minutes early so we can gather and get started together.**

Rockville Vegans will be picking up trash on the outside of Poplar Spring Animal Sanctuary as part of their adopt-a-highway program. Poplar will provide all the supplies - gloves, bags, and visibility vests. We will be parking just inside the gate as you enter the farm property.

Come celebrate the golden anniversary of the showcase transit of Washington, the Metrorail! We'll be traveling back and forth over the original stretch of the Red line that opened on March 27, 1976, distributing [t-shirts](https://transitenthusiastsdc.wordpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/t-shirt-order-form.pdf), balloons and stickers. Once we've spread our cheer, we'll retire to the Metro Bar just outside the Rhode Island Avenue station to reminisce and celebrate more. Join us! **NOTE**: Our "official" celebration begins at 4:30. We may add a noontime celebration if there is enough interest. Please email me at williamrice63@gmail.com if you'd like to participate in the earlier event. **ALSO NOTE**: WMATA has of this writing not yet announced what it is doing to celebrate. We will monitor its communications and keep you updated if we adjust our activities to accommodate the agency's plans.

Welcome to the first Park Club of 2026! Drake Khazal has recommended Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve in Loudon County, saying "It's not a very demanding hike because it's mostly flat land, so it's a nice leisurely stroll. Also lots of water and open meadow, when I was there lots of wild flowers but since we'll be heading there in mid march and it'll still be a bit cold they may only just be starting to pop up out of the soil. Also it's a nature preserve so lots of wildlife we may not get a chance to see elsewhere in NoVa, assorted birds and even some larger fauna (if we're lucky but they're very shy)" As in the past, we'll be meeting up and taking a look around, walking a trail, and enjoying nature and conversation. A nice chill activity for anyone to join whether you are a member of CCAN, a passionate environmentalist, or simply a person who loves nature. If you have any questions, feel free to ask.

Join us for an all plant-based meal at the always popular Sunflower Vegetarian Restaurant in Vienna, VA. We've made a reservation for 20 attendees, so don't delay in RSVPing as this will fill up. You can preview Sunflower's menu [here. ](https://www.crystalsunflower.com/menu) Parking is available in the restaurant's lot and the Vienna Metro station is 1.6 miles away. Rides may be available from attendees with cars so please communicate needs/availability in the comments below. Please note that there is no outdoor dining at this venue and that this is an indoor event. **Update Your RSVP** Out of respect for others interested in attending this limited-space event, please update your RSVP promptly as your schedule changes. **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

Come and join Northern Virginia porcelain artists. We will provide all the paints and materials needed. Just bring your smile and creativity. We paint from 10:00 am - 2:00pm every Tuesday & Wednesday. Please RSVP in advance if you like to join oir group. Text: 703-906-9150 We are located few minutes from Tyson’s corner in McLean.

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.