Women Friends

Welcome to the Melbourne 40+ gay men support group! My name is Steven Cabral and I am a trained group facilitator and counsellor. The idea for this support group was born out of a gap in community service that I observed where mature aged gay men could share and relate to each other in midlife. I found that most of the services seem geared towards the younger generation and rightly so, but I feel there is a particular experience in middle age and onwards that needs to be honoured, supported, and acknowledged. As we transition into a different phase of life, we are faced with a different set of challenges. It is my belief, from my own experience, that some of these are directly, but not exclusively, tied to our sexuality and that can influence self-actualisation later in life in various ways. Some of us may be carrying trauma from a time where we weren't as readily accepted. This may be seeping through other areas of our life and affecting our beliefs of self-worth and love, completely unbeknownst to us. Some of us may be feeling alone at this phase in our lives because we didn't follow the well worn societal map followed by the majority; such as having kids and partners. As a result, we may feel alone in a peer groups or especially within our own families. Some of us may simply be struggling to navigate this new phase and all that it entails ranging from dating in middle age to bigger questions of how to find meaning and purpose in our lives. Some of us may be dealing with grief. If any of this resonates with you, then I want you to know that you are not alone. My hope for the group is that you feel a sense of belonging and shared experience. That, in of itself, can be extremely healing. The group is not a substitute for therapy, but a safe space to share and connect with others on a similar journey and to find and give inspiration. The group is specifically targeted to gay men who are aged 40+ due to the topics covered. Due to the limitations of the space and the need to keep it intimate, there is a maximum of 10 attendees. Venue: Sussex Neighbourhood House Inc. 7 Prospect St, Pascoe Vale VIC 3044 Date/Times: Once a month on Mondays 7:30pm - 9:00pm \*\* Door will be closed 5 mins after group starts so as not to disrupt the group. Booking a spot in group: If it is fully booked, please ALWAYS go on Wait List - the app automatically gives you a spot as soon as someone drops out. I will reminding RSVP'd attendees to change their RSVPs to *Not Going* if they are no longer going, so that those on the Wait List get their place. If you regularly don't show up and don't let me know - I will be in contact to see if there are any issues. Fees: $10.00 This purely to cover the cost of the venue where group is held as well as Meetup subscription. Guidelines: An opening creed will be read at the beginning of each group session. It is paramount though that ALL attendees feel safe, welcomed and respected at ALL times. The group acknowledges the traditional owners of the land and I'd also like to extend that acknowledgement to those with lived experience of mental health challenges. Thank you so much for reading this far - I look forward to meeting you in person. Remember, it only takes a baby step to start change. Please message me directly with any questions. Steven Cabral.

You asked for it and Rainbow Social is giving. Bowling and dinner event has been requested a number of times. \*\*SOLD OUT: To join waitlist, do reach out via DM. Kingpin Bowling (260 Collins St) is hosting us and giving a wonderful discount of bowling and dinner. Provided us with a wonderful discount for bowling and offering lovely food. Your ticket gets you 90 mins of bowling + arcade and dinner **Ticket:** [Dinner and bowling/arcade](https://www.trybooking.com/DLARU) On the night timeline 6pm arrival 6:30pm meals served 7:15pm we start bowling/arcade (split into two groups) 8:45pm we reconnect for a drink and debrief On arrival: Downstairs, mention you’re with Rainbow Social and staff will point you to our spot. If you arrive late: It’s best that you arrive before 7pm, call or text if you’re able late The space is brand new! Grab your ticket and do NOT miss out on your spot! ## Date

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

This month, we will be reading and discussing *Brotherless Night* by V.V.Ganeshananthan, Winner of the 2024 Women's Prize for Fiction, from our International Contemporary category. BLURB. Jaffna, Sri Lanka, 1981. Sixteen-year-old Sashi wants to become a doctor. But over the next decade, a vicious civil war tears through her home, and her dream spins off course as she sees her four beloved brothers and their friend K swept up in the mounting violence. Set during the early years of Sri Lanka's three-decade civil war, *Brotherless Night* is a heartrending portrait of one woman's moral journey, and a testament to both the enduring impact of war and the bonds of home. (348 pages). Happy reading!

$29 per person for 2 hours of training (includes table hire) ## 🏓 MELBOURNE TABLE TENNIS COACHING @ MSAC Ready to seriously improve your table tennis — or finally start the right way? Join our **ongoing in-person group coaching sessions at MSAC**, where you’ll train in a structured but fun environment with players who come regularly, as well as new faces every week. Our sessions are designed for **both total beginners and advanced players.** You don’t need experience — and you won’t be bored if you already have it. ### What to expect * ✅ **10–15 players per session** * ✅ **2 experienced coaches on court** * ✅ **Structured drills + match play** * ✅ **Individual feedback based on your level and goals** * ✅ **A welcoming group that trains regularly** You’ll work on **technique, footwork, consistency, tactics, and real match situations** — not just hit balls randomly. We organise the group so everyone is challenged at the right level. ### Why people love these sessions * Ongoing training with a real community * Fast improvement, not just social play * A great way to **move, learn, and make friends** * Fun, supportive atmosphere with serious coaching behind it Whether your goal is to **learn from scratch, get fitter, sharpen your skills, or start competing**, this is a perfect place to train. ### What to bring * 🏓 **Bat/paddle** (if you have one — if not, we’ll provide it) * 👟 **Sports shoes (runners)** * 👕 **Comfortable sports clothes** * 💧 **Water bottle** * 🧴 **Small towel** Grab your paddle, bring your energy, and come hit with us at MSAC. Please send me an email to: p.tretinik@gmail.com to confirm attendance. This helps me to book enough table for a smooth session. NOTE: If this is not your first time coming to this meet up, the cost is $36 for the whole 2 hours.

## **Fortnightly Monday Community Nights** **Facilitated by Sasa Lestrange** 🕕 Starts 6PM \| 🎟️ $5 Entry \| 🔒 15 Spaces Only ### **The Quick Details** Come as you are, bring what you love. Whether you’re sketching, crafting, chatting, or diving into a YouTube watch party over the projector, this is your space to relax and connect. Bring your own arts and crafts, share your favourite tunes, or just hang out with good people. Got a TTRPG group? You’re welcome to play here. Looking for one? Use our Discord to find fellow adventurers and storytellers. This is a chill, welcoming evening for creatives, gamers, and anyone who wants to spend time in good company. No pressure, no prep — just good vibes and shared space. ## **Why Join** * Make new friends or bring your own crew * Get out of the house and into the community * Perfect for newcomers to Melbourne or anyone wanting to build good habits * Enjoy a relaxed, inclusive atmosphere ## **Facilitator** Your host, **Sasa of EGAD**, will welcome you, introduce you to the space, and help get the group started — often with a game or by interest. ## **Food & Drink** Snacks and drinks are available on the ground floor. You can also BYO, or join the **6:30 PM Schnitz order** for dinner. ## **Accessibility** The event space is up one flight of stairs, and bathrooms are not wheelchair‑friendly. Lighting is bright white overhead unless the group opts to dim for projector use. ## **Timing** You don’t need to be on time — just note that if you’re joining for games, you might wait for a table to free up. ## **Suggestions** Got an idea for an activity or theme? Absolutely share it! The group votes on what to do each night. Let’s kick off the week with fun, creativity, and connection.

🌟 **A new one-on-one, personality-based connection experience** Many of you have been asking about structured events and if I’d ever bring them back. Well… here it is - a new version, more intentional, and built around something I care about : **matching people based on personality.** Over the years, I’ve seen how hard it can be to find people you truly click with as adults. Small talk goes nowhere, and most events don’t give you the space for real conversation. 💫 **What to Expect** This is not speed dating, and it’s not a big mixer. It’s a curated, one-on-one connection experience where you’ll meet a few people who’ve been matched to you based on personality and vibe. Expect: * A cosy, comfortable venue * A hosted structure so you’re never left awkwardly standing around * A series of guided one-on-one conversations * A relaxed atmosphere where you can genuinely be yourself * This is not dating focused event, there will be a seperate one for dating Each conversation is designed to feel natural — because the match is based on compatibility Get your tickets here - https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1986746381910?aff=oddtdtcreator 🧭 **Before the Event** Once you get your Eventbrite ticket, you’ll receive a **short personality test (If you have already taken the test at a previous event you don't need to do it again)**. It takes only a few minutes but helps us understand your communication style, energy, and compatibility factors. This is how we curate meaningful one-on-one pairings for the event. 🌿 **Come Join Us** If you’re tired of small talk and ready to meet people who truly fit your personality, this is for you. A warm, intentional space created for deeper conversations and genuine chemistry - whether it becomes friendship, something romantic, or just a surprisingly great chat. RSVP now — spots are kept limited to ensure quality one-on-one time.

Hi Radiant Ladies, One of our ladies suggested this beautiful restaurant. Let’s enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the water at Southbank together. Lyn

A gentle invitation to the Sisterhood 🌿✨ If you’re a woman who has experienced trauma and are looking for a safe, supportive, and understanding community, then this is for you💛 Join us for a lighthearted, soul-nourishing evening designed to help you unwind, recharge, and connect with like-minded women. This is a relaxed, welcoming space to get to know the Sisterhood—where conversation flows easily, laughter is encouraged, and you can simply show up as you are. Sip on a warm herbal tea, settle in, and enjoy meaningful connection in a supportive and easygoing atmosphere. Whether you feel like sharing or just listening, you’re invited to be part of a circle that values warmth, authenticity, and togetherness. Due to the cost of living pressures, this will be a donation-based event so you only give what feels right for you. Come as you are. Leave feeling a little lighter, a little more connected, and gently recharged 💛

Jacket Bar!! New bar open in High St Thornbury offering a cosy vibe with live Spanish guitar music this Friday 24 April. I’ve been there and it’s lovely. Finish off the week and start the weekend sipping on your favourite drink(non alcoholic too) while connecting with other like minded women keen to meet new friends. With live Spanish guitar music and flamenco 💃 entertainment and Happy Hour prices until 8pm it’s a fab night out. (Eat before hand as limited food available) HAPPY HOURS @ JACKET $10 Aperol Spritz $10 Pints $10 Glasses of Wine $18 Negroni & Old Fashioned WED-THURS 5pm - 8pm FRI-SUN 3pm - 8pm Would like to book a table so please RSVP if you’re coming along. Cost:$5 (Meetup organiser fee) Payment can be made through PAYID when making your RSVP. PAYID: 0417 387 640 A Rodriguez Hope to see you there 🤗

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. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

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. 8PM EVERY FRIDAY & SATURDAY (LAST ENTRY STRICTLY 8.30PM) AT 215 QUEEN’S

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.

Join us for a relaxed and delicious brunch at Littleton’s Market! This is the perfect chance to unwind, enjoy great food, and connect with an amazing group of women who are in a similar stage of life. What to expect: * Casual, friendly conversation * Great food and cozy atmosphere * A chance to meet like-minded women and build connections

Hi ladies. Let's hike the Edward Thomas, Spring Creek, and a little multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Please bring a water bottle as needed and appropriate shoes. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Join us for a cozy evening of books and conversation. 🗓 Tuesday\, May 12 \| 6:30 p\.m\. Hilliard Branch \| 4500 Hickory Chase Way Schedule 6:00 p.m. – Book sale opens 6:30 p.m. – Author talk 7:15 p.m. – Audience Q&A 7:30 p.m. – Book signing It’s a great chance to pick up a new book, hear an author’s perspective, and share the experience with a community of readers.