Listening

Tuesday nights just got better! Join us at **600 Little Collins St, Melbourne** for a **free beginners Bachata class** — the smooth, stylish Latin dance that’s taking over Melbourne. No partner, no pressure — just good vibes, great music, and easy-to-follow moves that anyone can learn. 🎶 **Here’s what to expect:** * Step-by-step Bachata basics (no experience needed) * A super chill, welcoming crowd * Music that makes you *feel* like you’re on holiday 📍 **Location:** The Salsa Foundation, 600 Little Collins St, Melbourne 🕕 **Time:** Tuesday 6 PM — arrive a few minutes early to check in 🎟️ **Cost:** Free (bookings required — limited spots!)

**Please note:** This event has been posted on multiple Meetup groups. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **How to find us:** Let's meet beneath the landmark clocks at the entrance of Flinders Street Station — i.e. I'll "meet you under the clocks"! **Meetup Time:** 6.30 pm. We will wait about 15 minutes until everyone has arrived. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Details:** Let's enjoy the wonderful light and sound shows, and immerse ourselves in the joyful festive atmosphere that the city warmly welcomes during Christmas! We'll take a leisurely walk to explore some of the main spots with Christmas Lights around Melbourne CBD, adding to the fun and holiday spirit! This will include: * Christmas Square @ Federation Square * Christmas Decorations @ City Square & Melbourne Town Hall * Myer Christmas Windows @ Bourke Street Mall Later on, as it gets dark, we can try and check out some of the following light projections (time pending): * Crown Christmas River Show @ Birrarung-Yarra River Promenade outside Crown Casino * Chapter House Projections @ facades of the St Paul's Cathedral * Flinders Street Station Projections * Melbourne Town Hall Projections After the walk, we'll head back to Federation Square to enjoy some drinks and food together. It'll be a lovely way to unwind and catch up! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* If you have any questions, feel free to drop a message in the Comments section. I look forward to seeing everyone there! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **For more information:** [https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas](https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas) [https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas/decorations](https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/christmas/decorations) [https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-melbournes-best-christmas-lights-and-decorations](https://whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/article/the-ultimate-guide-to-melbournes-best-christmas-lights-and-decorations) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*

Come along and join in a relaxed evening of dev and tech talk, drinks and dinner.

We’re still working to get more people into these Meetups, but our goal is to give PlayYourCourt members a few social tennis outings each week in addition to your practice sessions and Challenge League matches. These Meetups are co-ed, super laid back, and all skill levels are welcome. Post your skill level and a suggested court in the comments section so we can round up as many players as we can for some tennis fun! Also, if you’re looking to meet new practice partners or play some matches and you aren’t already in the PlayYourCourt Community, you can go here to see what we’re all about and sign up: https://www.playyourcourt.com/tennis-community/melbourne-vic/meetup/ If you love tennis, we’d love to have you! Be sure and watch the quick video that explains how everything works. Happy hitting! - Scott

**🙋‍♀️**Welcome to our Tuesday Social + language ​exchange meetup. Meet people from many countries and make new friends. 👉We always have between 150 - 250 people attending our Tuesday event since this event is listed in 3 different meetup groups. Some people come early some come late, best time is between 6pm to 9pm. 👉This is a great opportunity to learn to speak English with native and non-native speakers. Many English speakers, Europeans, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and other Asians attend our fun and friendly party. 👉It is suitable for international students, working holiday people, professional ex-pats, and local Australians. 👉**Fee** of **$3.50** to be paid at the entrance or you can buy something from the bar. No Limited numbers but RSVP is a must. 🆔 Please carry a Photo ID as you may be asked at the entrance. 👉**Location**: Diesel bar & Eatery. we book the whole Second floor, Capacity of 500 people. and the welcoming table is at the door entrance. No entry from Melbourne Central. only from 202 Little Lonsdale St.

To express gratitude for a year of connection and conversation, I thought it would be nice to have a meal together while the days are long and the sun is out. Still thinking of places and cuisines we haven't tried yet, so feel free to DM / WhatsApp me your suggestions! Tentative plan is for lunch somewhere in the CBD followed by a meander in nature (Yarra River and/or a park) and coffee after. We will meet under the clocks at Flinders St and start by exploring Flinders Lane and Degraves Street. There is a $10 organizer fee for this event. You can PayID me at 0403 413 056.

Hi everyone, This Christmas dinner will be held at my friend Paul's place in Cranbourne, Melbourne. I will be going as well if anyone is needing a ride from the Western suburbs of Melbourne or city. Please message for the address. This festive season, let’s come together once again to celebrate the spirit of community, friendship, and good food right here in Cranbourne, Victoria. If this Christmas finds you far from your homeland or family, you’re not alone! Join us for a warm Christmas Potluck Dinner and a fun Kris Kringle gift exchange — a time to share laughter, stories, and traditions with others who are also looking for connection and belonging this holiday season. 📅 Date: 25 December 2025 🕔 Time: 5:00 pm 📍 Location: Cranbourne, Victoria (address will be shared with attendees) 👫 Feel free to bring a +1 or a new friend! Please bring a dish that reflects your cultural heritage — or simply something you enjoy! Don’t worry if you can’t cook; store-bought is just as welcome. We’ll enjoy music, laughter, and dishes from around the world as we make this Christmas a little brighter together. And of course, don’t forget to bring a small gift (around $15) for our Kris Kringle game — the rules will be revealed on the day! With warmth and holidays.

## Details 📍 \[DIESEL BAR\] \| 🕖 Every Friday \| 🎟 FREE ENTRY \| ⏰ From 7PM till LATE Get ready to unleash your inner superstar at our **new weekly Friday Night Karaoke Open Mic**! Whether you sing in English, Spanish, Korean, Arabic, Japanese, French, Portuguese—or all of the above—this stage is yours! 🌍 **INTERNATIONAL SONG COLLECTION** We’ve got tracks in *multiple languages*, so bring your voice and represent your culture! 🎤 **OPEN MIC VIBES** Solo, duet, or group performance? It’s all welcome. Sign up on the night and grab the mic when your name is called. 💃🏽 **ELECTRIC ATMOSPHERE** Meet international friends, cheer for new voices, and vibe with our amazing multicultural community. 🍹 **Special drink deals** all night 📸 Photo & video moments to remember 🎉 Surprises and sing-along moments guaranteed! **Tag your crew, warm up those vocal cords, and see you every Friday from 7PM till late!** ✨ *FREE ENTRY – Everyone welcome* ✨

Progressibu Japanese English exchange Saturday 4pm-6pm Progressi部 日英言語文化交流 - Saturday 4pm-6pm Share your English and Japanese language and culture at this informal weekly exchange. It's a great chance to improve your English/Japanese, make new friends, and have a coffee Due to meetup website monthly charges, there's a fee of $3 CASH for non Japanese citizens. Please check with the organizer before participating. Please arrive 10-15 min early, due to limited seat Join Progressibu in Facebook / twitter [www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu](https://www.facebook.com/groups/progressibu/?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZU9yB5_cPpRTKYc3XF8vD06VrLHEQq9YYp1j9Pipvbs2uKX3TXvzsyYNVxa9ZA9pqDHkbLv7yoB7kXwbh9s6e1FCg6-ycT8N1X9rgTgMcQZ6Q&__tn__=q) [twitter.com/progressibu](https://twitter.com/progressibu?fbclid=IwAR0-tRnPLLN7tM9T9RxLODXiRjb2uJecTzmz-3PWGKcaOQaZu_u8oI4kDIk) 本気で話せる、本気で学べる、 本気な人に出会える場を目指して。日本語の初心者でもネーティブスピーカーでも誰でも参加できます。 BYOPassion. メルボルン市内のカフェで日英言語文化交流会を主催しています Relaxed, easygoing environment for cultural, language exchange and make new friends Photos will be taken during the event **RULE: Any harassment will not be tolerate, ban permanently.** **Do not make the people you speak uncomfortable. Anyone from Progressibu Japanese English event is making you uncomfortable, please come and speak to the organiser Shin , David,** **Ray**

IMPORTANT NEW INFORMATION - LOCATION CHANGE TO MELBOUNE CITY. Due to cool weather forecast for Christmas Day, we've decided to skip the beach and opt for something a little more cozy. Plan A (good weather): If the weather’s good enough, we’ll meet at 5pm in FITZROY GARDENS for a casual drink/snack (feel free to bring something to sip), then head to the DUKE OF WELLINGTON around 6. Plan B (shit weather): If the weather sucks, we’ll skip the park and meet directly at the DUKE OF WELLINGTON at 5pm. Get ready for a Christmas miracle, mates! ✨ Localish is stoked to host our inaugural Orphans Christmas – no actual orphans required (but seriously, all are welcome!) 🎄 If Christmas feels a bit lonely without the fam or mates, we've got you! Join us for a day of company, connection, and top-notch snacks. Bring a plate to share and BYO bevs for the picnic part of the event. Join our Localish Facebook group to stay up-to-date with all our events: https://www.facebook.com/groups/localishconnections/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT

## Details **🙋‍♀️**Welcome to our FRIDAY FREE Social + language ​exchange meetup. Meet people from many countries and make new friends. 👉This is a great opportunity to learn to speak English with native and non-native speakers. Many English speakers, Europeans, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and other Asians attend our fun and friendly party. 👉It is suitable for international students, working holiday people, professional ex-pats, and local Australians. 🍺: Discounted 15% house beers and wines 🍸: Extra cost for cocktails and spirit 🍲: Food available is to purchase at the bar with 15% discount on menu. 👉**Fee** of **$3.00** to be paid at the entrance is Waived so FREE but if you can buy something from the bar. THAT WOULD BE GREAT! No Limited numbers but RSVP is a must. 🆔 Please carry a Photo ID as you may be asked at the entrance. 👉**Location**: Diesel bar & Eatery. we book the whole Second floor, Capacity of 500 people. and the welcoming table is at the door entrance. No entry from Melbourne Central. only from 202 Little Lonsdale St.

Join us for a friendly and relaxed English meetup in South Melbourne! This gathering is perfect for anyone who wants to practise English, meet new friends, and feel part of a welcoming community. Whether you’re an international student, new to Melbourne, or simply looking to connect with others, you’ll find a supportive space to learn and grow. Each week, we run **two simple sessions**: **Daily English**, where you learn useful everyday vocabulary, and **Learning English from the Bible**, where we explore short passages in clear, beginner-friendly English. You’ll also meet people from different cultures and enjoy meaningful conversations in a warm, inclusive environment. Come along, make new friends, and enjoy learning English in a place where everyone is welcome. We’d love to meet you!

Our January program is privileged to have Kristen Tregar as our speaker. Ms. Tregar is the co-author with John de Lancie (the actor who portrayed the character Q on Star Trek next generation) of a radio play depicting the events surrounding the Kitzmiller v. Dover Area School District trial. The trial decided the issue of some of the Dover school district board members attempting to insert creationism disguised as "intelligent design" into the 9th grade biology curriculum. She will discuss the trial and the process of writing the play. (Bob Leonhard has seen the play and it is riveting and tense). Ms. Tregar's bio is below: Kristen Tregar is a dramaturg, director, playwright, and theatre teacher. She earned her Ph.D. in Drama and Theatre from the UC San Diego and UC Irvine joint program. In addition, she has a MS in Forensic Science from City University of New York- John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a MA in Educational Theatre from New York University- Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. In 2013, in collaboration with Irish colleagues, she founded *The Ireland Project*, an intercontinental devised theatre work with high school students in New York and Tallaght, Ireland. Her original short story "Far From Here" was recently published in *Stay Awhile Longer: More Scenes From Temecula Valley*. She has two rescued dogs (Kira and Harry) and she rides, competes, and foxhunts with her horses, Andromache and Baker Street Irregular. Food and drinks will be provided at the event. Feel free to show up a little bit early to hang out and talk. 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

Join Sacred Sound Alchemy Columbus for a transformative Sound Bath experience that will take you on a journey of self-discovery and healing. Immerse yourself in the powerful vibrations of various sound instruments like crystal singing bowls and rain drums, carefully orchestrated to balance your chakras and uplift your spirit. The soothing sounds will help you release negative energy, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. This event is perfect for those seeking a moment of tranquility and a chance to connect with their inner selves. Whether you are new to sound healing or a seasoned practitioner, you will benefit from the harmonious frequencies that will resonate with your body and soul. Come and allow yourself to be enveloped in a wave of healing energy, leaving you refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready for life's next chapter. Please bring something comfortable to lay on like a yoga mat. Being a pillow for your head or for under your knees and a blanket to cover over yourou. The library can get cold. Bring some water to help flush your body for after the session.

Rev. Steven Clevenger is an ordained spiritualist minister with over 40 years experience as a Spiritual Healer, Clairvoyant and Spiritual Teacher, educated and trained at the White Lily Chapel. Rev. Siobhan Wolf Shaffer is an ordained spiritualist minister and certified medium and healer with over 20 years experience. She began her development in 1988 in Pennsylvania and continued when she moved to Ohio in 1998 where she studied at Rays of Lights Church with Rev. Steven Clevenger. Our full worship services consist of an inspirational lecture, healing meditation, and messages from the spirit world that serve to demonstrate evidence of eternal life. Please visit our Official Church Website (http://raysoflightchurch.com) for more information.

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."