Venture Capital

Ahead of Valentine’s Day, join us at the Atlassian Melbourne office for an Atlassian Community Event exploring modern service management - and why the best service experiences feel a lot like great relationships. In the coming months, customers using Jira Service Management (JSM) will automatically get access to the ‘Service Collection’!  This will be rolled out in phases from February to June. 2026 If you’re already using JSM, this session will help you understand what’s included and how to make the most of it. We’ll explore the Service Collection and how Jira Service Management (JSM) and Rovo AI support modern, human‑centred service teams. Tools included in the Service Collection Jira Service Management (JSM)AssetsCustomer ServiceRovo AI We’ll keep this high‑level and practical, focusing on how these tools come together rather than diving into detailed configuration. Who should attend This event is ideal for: Executive Customer Service Desk Leaders ITSM practitioners Enterprise Service Management (ESM) teams Operations & Support Managers Service & Delivery Leads Atlassian Administrators People, HR, Legal, Facilities & Internal Services teams Anyone using or exploring JSM and AI‑enabled service delivery Presenters Chloe Martin – Senior Solution Engineer, Service Collection Micky Rathod – Senior Solution Engineer, Service Collection Host Michelle Letho – Head of Partnership & Strategic Growth, Willyama Togetha (Atlassian Partner) Details: Date: 11 Feb, 2026 5:30pm – Arrival, drinks & nibbles, Valentine’s‑themed service icebreaker, group photo 6:00–7:00pm – Presentation & Q&A 7:00–7:30pm – Networking Spots are limited – RSVP required. Agenda --- Hosted By Mit Tolia, Atlassian practice & capability lead With 20 years of consulting experience, I specialize in helping organizations leverage Agile and technology to drive business outcomes. Passionate about Agile Lifecycle Management (ALM) tools, I work with enterprises to implement Atlassian solutions that foster business agility, enhance collaboration, and provide meaningful insights for informed decision-making. As an Atlassian geek, my expertise spans the entire Atlassian ecosystem, with a focus on Enterprise Strategy & Planning, Cloud Migrations, and Agile Scaling. I have extensive experience in implementing Jira Align, Jira, Confluence, and Jira Service Management (JSM)—helping teams optimize workflows, inculcate the right behaviors, and scale Agile practices from the team level to enterprise-wide adoption. Always eager to explore new possibilities in the Atlassian space, I thrive on enabling organizations to build adaptive, customer-centric solutions that embrace the future of work and to build communities to constantly learn from each other. Bonnie Emmerson, Atlassian Community Champion Andy Fleming, Atlassian Community Champion Michelle Letho, Account Executive & Networking Junkie Michelle (Miche) Letho is the Melbourne Atlassian Community Event (ACE) Champion and an Account Executive at Willyama Togetha, Australia’s only Indigenous-owned Atlassian Platinum Partner. She helps organisations imagine, build, and scale better ways of working through Atlassian solutions that boost collaboration, visibility, and impact. A member of the Transformers Unite leadership team, Miche supports national change and transformation events that bring practitioners together to learn and share. With a career spanning tech, FMCG, a Startup founder and consulting, she blends commercial know-how with curiosity and heart. If she's not at networking events, outside work, she keeps busy ubering teens at calisthenics and netball. and recharges through yoga, Pilates and hiking. --- Global Partner Atlassian (http://atlassian.com) Millions of users globally rely on Atlassian products every day for improving software development, project management, collaboration, and code quality. For over a decade, Atlassian customers have come together to network, share ideas, solve problems, and find new ways to use Atlassian products. Today, more than 15,000 people take part in Atlassian community events in more than 30 countries. --- Complete your event RSVP here: https://ace.atlassian.com/events/details/atlassian-melbourne-presents-service-collection-hearts-tickets-amp-happy-teams/.

If you have a startup idea or a growing company and you want to join the early stage accelerator Founder Institute from Melbourne, then join us for the in-person 'Founder Night Out' event. At this informal networking event, you can connect with other early-stage entrepreneurs, startup mentors, and advisors from the Founder Institute network. Buy your own food and drinks, Network with potential co-founders, advisors, alumni, mentors and partners. Most of all, ask us anything about the accelerator Founder Institute cohort from Feb-May 2026. ❯ **Attending mentors include Alex Sy (Managing Director, ATLAS Business Consulting and Mentoring Services) and Sameer Babbar** ❯ **Who should Attend?** * Anyone interested in entrepreneurship * Anyone who has applied to Founder Institute or finished Founder Institute in the past * Anyone who has been a mentor with Founder Institute * Anyone who has a pre-seed tech company or a startup idea * Anyone interested in joining a startup accelerator ❯ **What is the Agenda?** * Ask us anything about the startup accelerator Founder Institute * Networking * Buy your own food and drinks **❯❯ This is an in-person event—RSVP here: [https://fi.co/e/387158/meetup](https://fi.co/e/387158/meetup) to secure your spot and be the first to receive event details, including the location when it’s announced.**

We are doing a seminar on how to help increase your income, and to give you some useable tools that you can help apply to your life/new business venture in order to take yourself to the next level, financially! It is no secret that the cost of living is continuing to grow, and will most likely only continue to. So how can you work around this? In this seminar you will learn: \- Who is the most important person in any business\. \- How to set achievable goals\. \- The power of surveying \- PLUS MORE\! Come along and learn some useful tools that could help set you on the right path.

We're thrilled to invite you to our next Microsoft Student Accelerator event on **Wednesday, February 11th at 3:00 PM** at the **Microsoft Melbourne Office**! 🎉 Whether you're looking to understand different tech roles, strengthen your resume, or learn about what Microsoft internships look like, this meetup is for you. Join us for an engaging afternoon filled with insights, practical guidance, and opportunities to connect with industry professionals and fellow students. ## What’s on the agenda: 💬 **Intern Panel & Discussion** – Hear real experiences and insights from students who’ve navigated the internship journey. 📝 **Resume Building & Tips** – Learn practical ways to strengthen your resume and present your skills confidently. 🔦 **Role Spotlights** – Discover different tech pathways through short talks from professionals across multiple disciplines. 🤝 **Networking & Food** – Connect with peers and industry professionals to wrap up the afternoon. 📍 Microsoft Melbourne Office - Level 5, 4 Freshwater Place, Southbank VIC 3006 🗓 Wednesday, 11th February 🕒 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM (AEST) (Please note: meetup event shows time in AWST) We can't wait to see you there! 🤩 Best regards, The MSA Melbourne Team

Hi Architects, Welcome to our first AWS Melbourne Well-Architected User Group Meetup for 2026, including more exceptional speakers and topics! :-D At each meetup we covered off various pillars in detail, best-practices and insights from industry leaders that specialise in the Well-Architected Framework. And giving away drones, of course. Lots of drones. Our speakers this month include: * **Mystery Speaker** **Can Cost Optimisation Improve your other pillars?** In this talk, we'll go through whether Cost Optimisation can improve your security, operational excellence, reliability, etc. and more importantly, how (spoiler alert - it can but it will be an interesting exploration). This month's menu will include: * Pizzas * Beer: Nastro Azzurro * Wine: Big and red 🤤 NB: Please check in up the stairs from the ground floor to the Mezzanine Level. So come join us at 5:30 for a 6pm **SHARP** start, followed by beer, wine, pizza and friendly networking after our talks :-)

Join us every **Wednesday at 5 PM** at the Emporium food court (located behind Grill’d Burger Restaurant in the CBD, not near Melbourne Station) for a dynamic networking event tailored for filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts. Afterward, we continue the evening with Happy Hour drinks at a nearby bar and a chance to grab dinner together. Understanding that schedules vary, feel free to join at any time that suits you. Rain or shine, our community has gathered every week for the past year, maintaining a consistent and welcoming environment. Our group has grown remarkably, with a **weekly turnout of over 50 participants**, blending newcomers with regulars to create a vibrant, diverse community. Feel free to bring friends interested in filmmaking; it’s a great way to introduce new faces to our expanding network. Whether you’re a writer, actor, animator, or independent filmmaker, come share your experiences, discuss current projects, or chat about favorite films. This event fosters connections among like-minded individuals, encourages friendships, and opens doors for collaboration. At **7 PM**, we move to The Carlton Club, a five-minute walk away, where we continue networking in a more formal rooftop setting over drinks and food. This change of venue offers an ideal environment to keep conversations flowing. **RSVP** to help us gauge attendance and become part of a growing network of film professionals and enthusiasts. Though the event begins in the afternoon, the relationships you build here can last well into the night and beyond. **What to Expect:** *Our Wednesday meetup is primarily a large networking event for industry professionals. There’s no set theme, workshop, or speaker. It’s a relaxed gathering where filmmakers, actors, and creatives can connect, discuss projects, share needs, and learn from each other. Conversations flow freely around the table, fostering an environment of growth and camaraderie. Beyond Wednesdays, we also host exclusive events such as table reads, cinematography workshops with Panasonic, member screenings, and more. Each week brings fresh dialogues—some participants discuss their weekend shoots, others exchange insights with seasoned producers and directors, and a few engage in filmmaking exercises. It’s a space designed for creative engagement without strict structure or formal oversight.* *Note: Our community emphasizes collaboration, friendship, and goodwill rather than promotional activities. If you wish to promote a workshop, course, screening, or similar event, please contact the organizers first. Promotional privileges are generally reserved for trusted, long-standing members.

This is our monthly meetup where we hang out and chat about investing. There's no fixed format, we just meet with like-minded individuals to discuss investing strategies and stock picks, at a bar or cafe. All levels of experience welcome. Second Friday of the month. Bring laptops/tablets etc if you like because we do research.

Instead of having coffee while watching Netflix, we’re coming together as a community, connecting in person, sharing tips, providing support wherever we can AND having coffee together ☕. * **What We’re About** You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with, so join us — and be part of a community that rises above circumstances and creates opportunities. Inspire and be inspired by those who make things happen. It's a relaxed, organic space to connect with like-minded people and network—genuinely talking, learning from each other, and connecting over shared interests. * **What to Expect** Casual Meetups: We gather semi-regularly at a local café to chat about everything from stepping outside your comfort zone to business ideas, creative projects, and building a life aligned with your purpose. It’s relaxed, easy, and welcoming—no need to have anything “figured out.” An Easy-Going Space: We keep things simple and low-pressure. Once everyone arrives, we ease in with some light conversation and naturally break into smaller groups. Networking: Feel free to introduce yourself or let people know what you're working on if you feel like it. And if anyone wants to quickly shout out what they’re working on or looking for before we settle in, go for it—it’s a great way to spark new conversations. * **Host Support** If you’d like a one-on-one chat with me about your business, just tap me on the shoulder. I’ll be floating around and happy to make time for you. **Quick note for the day:** Depending on the weather, we might go for a walk around Blackburn Lake. Just remember to wear comfy shoes :)

**Unlock Meaningful Connections at Our Speed Friending Event** [LINK TO BOOK](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meaningful-conversations-group-speed-friending-tickets-1980675711371?aff=oddtdtcreator) Ready to step out of your comfort zone and make authentic connections? Join us at *The Bank on Collins* for an exclusive Speed Friending event with structured conversations designed for ambitious professionals and like-minded individuals who are eager to forge meaningful connections - not just small talk. This event attracts a diverse group of individuals who are serious about building friendships and expanding their network. Whether you're a professional climbing the career ladder, a creative pushing the boundaries of innovation, or an entrepreneur chasing your next big idea, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded go-getters who think big and dream even bigger. In a world where quality relationships are key to success, we believe that life is better with great people in it. This event is your opportunity to meet dynamic, driven individuals who are all about growth, collaboration, and real conversations. Be prepared to dive deep with thought-provoking questions that foster vulnerability and genuine connections so you can Find Your Tribe. Whether you're a seasoned event-goer or this is your first event, we're here to support you every step of the way. Push past surface-level interactions and start building the kind of relationships that truly matter. **Event Structure:** * **6:30 pm:** Arrive, grab a drink, and mingle. (Pro tip: Happy hour ends at 6:30 pm, so come early to snag a deal!) * **6:45 pm - 8:00 pm:** 4 rounds of group speed friending. You'll meet 16-20 like-minded people ready to connect on a deeper level. * **8:00 pm - 8:30 pm:** Post-speed friending social networking. This is where the magic happens—spend time with the people you vibed with most and start building real friendships. **Investment:** $10 [BOOK YOUR TICKETS HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meaningful-conversations-group-speed-friending-tickets-1980675711371?aff=oddtdtcreator) To support the venue, please buy a drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) or snack during the event. **Liability Disclaimer:** By attending this event, you acknowledge that you are participating voluntarily and are responsible for your own health, safety, and well-being during the session. *Find Your Tribe Melbourne* and its hosts are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur. Please take care, be mindful of your surroundings, and participate within your own comfort level. **Photo & Video Disclaimer:** Please note that photos and videos will be taken throughout the event and may be used on our social media channels or other platforms. If you prefer not to be photographed or filmed, kindly inform one of the hosts at the beginning of the event. **Take the leap - join us for a night of transformative connections and step into a community of movers and shakers. We can't wait to meet you!** Link to book: [Meaningful Conversations - Group Speed Friending Tickets, Thu, Feb 12, 2026 at 6:30 PM | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meaningful-conversations-group-speed-friending-tickets-1980675711371?aff=oddtdtcreator) Instagram: @findyourtribemelb

## 💘 KISMETRIX \| True Connection [Ticketed Event](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26193) ### Valentine’s Eve Singles Drinks at Konar Bar Hosted by **KISMETRIX \| True Connection** 📍 **Konar Bar (Roof Top) : 483 North Road, Ormond Vic 3204** 📅 **Friday, 13 February** 🕖 **7:00 PM – 10:00 PM** Valentine’s Day is tomorrow. If you’re single… **this is not the night to stay home.** This is our **Valentine’s Eve Singles Drinks** — a high-energy, feel-good Friday night created for people who want *real connection*, not another night of swiping or small talk that goes nowhere. No speed dating. No awkward games. No dating apps. Just a packed bar, great drinks, and singles who actually showed up. ## 👥 Age Groups (Ticketed) To create a balanced, comfortable crowd, tickets are released in **two overlapping age groups**: * **25–39** * **35–55+** Guests receive **coloured name tags** on arrival to help our hosts make thoughtful introductions early in the night. As the evening unfolds, the room naturally opens into **relaxed mingling across the whole crowd**. This format keeps the energy high, social, and natural — exactly how a great night out should feel. ## 💫 About the Event Tired of dating apps that go nowhere? Over speed dating that feels like an interview? So were we. KISMETRIX \| True Connection was created for singles who want something more human — real conversation\, real presence\, and real chemistry\. You’ll walk into a room full of people who: * Are done with ghosting and endless chatting * Want to meet face-to-face, not behind a screen * Value connection, conversation, and vibe over outcomes Come for a drink. Stay for the energy. Leave glad you didn’t sit this one out. ## 🎯 Who This Night Is For This event is for singles who: * Want something more real than apps * Enjoy good conversation and social energy * Are open, curious, and emotionally mature * Want a great Friday night — regardless of what “happens” Come solo or with friends — many do. ## 🍷 The Vibe Expect: * A lively, welcoming bar atmosphere * Great music and Friday-night energy * Hosted introductions early, free flow later * A crowd here for connection, not pressure Think less “dating event” — more **the place to be the night before Valentine’s**. ## ✅ Why People Love KISMETRIX Events * No swiping. No apps. Just real people. * No timers or forced interactions. * Thoughtful structure without rigidity. * A great night out — even if you come alone. Many guests come “just for a drink” …and end up staying all night. ## 🎟 Book Now [Official Website](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/all-events/?event=26193) OR [EventBrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/feb-13th-kismetrix-valentines-eve-singles-night-konar-bar-ormond-tickets-1981392337820?aff=oddtdtcreator) Valentine’s Eve events **fill fast** — and capacity is limited to keep the night social, not chaotic. Door price (if available): $59. Online tickets recommended. 👉 **Secure your ticket early.** If you’re single this Valentine’s weekend, this is where you want to be. **Refund Policy:** Tickets are non-refundable. If you can no longer attend, you’re welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else in the same age group. ## **🔗 Stay Connected with Kismetrix \| True Connection** Love this event? We run a variety of experiences to help people meet and connect in meaningful ways. 📧 **social@kismetrix.com.au** 🌐 **[www.kismetrix.com.au](http://www.kismetrix.com.au "http://www.kismetrix.com.au")** 📱 Follow us on **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/ "https://www.instagram.com/kismetrix_/"), [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523 "https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559826808523") & [Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353 "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/kismetrix-singles-events-84848288353")** 📄 \*\*Important Notice:\*\*By registering for this event\, you confirm that you have read and agree to Kismetrix \| True Connection’s[ Terms & Conditions](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/terms-and-conditions-2/"),[ Privacy Policy](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/privacy-policy/"),[ Disclaimer](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/disclaimer/") and [Code of Conduct](https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/ "https://www.kismetrix.com.au/code-of-conduct/").Some events may be non-refundable as stated in their individual descriptions.🤝 Collaborations: **collabs@kismetrix.com.au**

**People Analytics 101: Making Sense of Compensation Data** Compensation data is one of the most widely used and widely misunderstood forms of people analytics. The session will cover where compensation data comes from, including market pricing data, internal payroll data, and benchmarking sources, and how companies think about structuring and analyzing that information. We will explore how compensation data is leveraged to set salary ranges, manage internal equity, support hiring and retention, and align pay with business strategy. A portion of the session will address common data challenges and limitations, such as market noise, inconsistent job matching, and incomplete datasets, while keeping the primary focus on practical use rather than technical depth. The session will also look ahead at where the space is going, including the growing impact of pay transparency laws, expanding pay equity requirements, and emerging regulations in the US and Europe that require organizations to report on gender and pay gaps. The goal is to give attendees a clear mental model for how compensation analytics works today and why getting it right is becoming increasingly critical. (note: we are back at Rev1 this month!) **About Our Speaker** [Alex Moore](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexscottmoore/) is the founder of [Moore Cooperative](https://moorecooperative.com/), where he advises organizations on compensation strategy, pay equity, and people analytics. His work focuses on helping organizations like the Ohio Supreme Court design, analyze, and communicate compensation systems that are data-informed, defensible, and aligned with organizational goals. Alex lives in Granville, Ohio and has three little kiddos. More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)

Calling all founders, CEOs, lawyers, doctors, and entrepreneurs to join our special *Founder Edition* of Sip & Read meetup event. Let's sip on fine wine and discuss our first book **The 5AM Club- Own Your Morning Elevate Your Life, by Robin Sharma**. We will pair this book with our favorite wine at **Wine on High** and engage in thought-provoking discussions on startup businesses and entrepreneurship, and network with like-minded individuals in a cozy book club setting. Come prepared to discuss this month's book. At the end of each book club meeting, we will take next book and venue suggestions from the participants for the next meeting. Whether you are a book lover, women entrepreneur, or a content creator, this event is perfect for sharing ideas and insights with other funders and founders in the entrepreneurial world. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together. Sign up now to reserve your spot! *Fun fact! This meetup was established in 2015 and had over 1,000 members. I had to shut down operations while attending law school, but we're back!!*

NFT's are here to stay folks! This is a group for like minded people interested in understanding, leveraging, using, creating for, profiting from, trading too i suppose, NFT's.. everything around them, complexity, fear and exploits, best practices and more. **PLUS** This group will talk AI ART tools, techniques, artists, video, audio, prototypes and more in the AI assisted production space- ART specifically, but we can get into any aspect of some of the cooler things happening in AI in general.

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

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