Women's Book Club

**Online Speed Dating for Mature Geelong Singles** Live on Zoom. Real conversations. Local people who value genuine connection and traditional dating. **Pick your age group to register:** - Ages 18-32: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - Ages 30-46: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - Ages 40-58: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) - Ages 55+: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Geelong&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=55+&face_v=2.0) RSVP alone does not hold your spot. Register through the link above and complete the quick personality quiz. For mature singles who appreciate meaningful connections and are serious about finding the right person. Host-guided. All ages welcome. Mutual matches shared after the event.

Join me for a full-day ride on the Great Victorian Rail Trail as we cycle from Tallarook to Yea and then return back to Tallarook. We’ll be riding around 80 km in total, so this ride is best suited to people with reasonable fitness who are comfortable riding longer distances at a steady pace. The trail is known for scenic countryside views, relaxed rail trail riding, and the beautiful Trawool Valley section. It should be a great full-day bike adventure for anyone who is comfortable with the distance. We’ll take the train from Southern Cross to Tallarook, start the ride from there, cycle to Yea, take breaks as needed, and then ride back to Tallarook for the return train to Melbourne. This is not a beginner ride. Please only RSVP if you are confident riding around 80 km at an average pace of around 15 km/h. **Links** Meetup start point: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/wqiZN7fa9f3AkPh67](https://maps.app.goo.gl/wqiZN7fa9f3AkPh67) Trail information: [https://www.railtrails.org.au/trails/great-victorian-rail-trail/](https://www.railtrails.org.au/trails/great-victorian-rail-trail/) Related video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm9LIX6vqOE](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm9LIX6vqOE) **Rough timeline** * 6:45am — Meet at V/Line Tickets and Information, Southern Cross Station * 7:16am — Train departs Southern Cross for Tallarook * Morning — Arrive at Tallarook and start the ride * Ride Tallarook to Yea along the Great Victorian Rail Trail * Breaks as needed along the way * Afternoon — Ride from Yea back to Tallarook * Return train options from Tallarook include 5:22pm, 6:43pm and 8:33pm * Around 10:00pm — Meetup ends, depending on which return train we take The return time will depend on group pace, breaks, weather, and train availability. **Tickets** Attendees will need their own valid Myki / V/Line fare for the train travel. Please check your own fare and travel arrangements before the day. **What to bring** * A bicycle in good working condition * Helmet * Front and back lights * Puncture repair kit * Lunch * Enough water * Snacks * Weather-appropriate clothing * Myki / valid public transport fare * Any personal medication or items you need for a full-day ride **What to expect** * Distance: Around 80 km return * Difficulty: Moderate to challenging due to distance * Pace: Steady average pace of around 15 km/h * Vibe: Scenic, practical, relaxed, but still a proper full-day ride We’ll take breaks as needed, but the group will need to keep moving at a reasonable pace so we can return to Tallarook in time for a suitable train. **Important notes** This event is weather dependent and will not go ahead if rain is forecast. This event is also dependent on V/Line train availability. It may need to be cancelled or changed if there are coach replacements, timetable changes, disruptions, or other major issues. V/Line currently notes that bicycles can be carried on trains only if space is available, so bike carriage is not guaranteed. Please be prepared for that possibility. Please make sure your bike is in good working condition before the day. You should be able to manage basic issues such as a puncture, or at least bring the tools and supplies needed. This ride is best suited to people who are already comfortable riding longer distances. If you are unsure whether 80 km at around 15 km/h is suitable for you, this may not be the right event. **Other info** Please check the weather forecast and V/Line service status closer to the day.

“The double act of McKellen and Coel has the onscreen chemistry of the year.” The Guardian. “McKellen and Coel give a master class in line readings throughout “The Christophers.” It’s a real pleasure watching two seasoned actors bounce off each other in service to creating their characters. It’s even more delightful to see this in a film made for adults that has plenty to say about human nature, love, and the inspirations that fuel our lives.” The Boston Globe. We will meet at the Nova bar from 3:45 p.m. onwards and meet after the screening to discuss the film. Please book your tickets early as it is a long weekend. Stefan – 0437777522.

**Online Speed Dating for Mature Melbourne Singles** Live on Zoom. Real conversations. Local people who value genuine connection and traditional dating. **Pick your age group to register:** - Ages 18-32: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - Ages 30-46: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - Ages 40-58: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) - Ages 55+: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=55+&face_v=2.0) RSVP alone does not hold your spot. Register through the link above and complete the quick personality quiz. For mature singles who appreciate meaningful connections and are serious about finding the right person. Host-guided. All ages welcome. Mutual matches shared after the event.

**Online Speed Dating for Mature East Melbourne Singles** Live on Zoom. Real conversations. Local people who value genuine connection and traditional dating. **Pick your age group to register:** - Ages 18-32: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - Ages 30-46: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - Ages 40-58: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) - Ages 55+: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=East%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=55+&face_v=2.0) RSVP alone does not hold your spot. Register through the link above and complete the quick personality quiz. For mature singles who appreciate meaningful connections and are serious about finding the right person. Host-guided. All ages welcome. Mutual matches shared after the event.

**SUNDAYLICIOUS \| KING’S BIRTHDAY LONG WEEKEND** **[BUY TICKETS](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sundaylicious-melbourne-kings-bday-long-weekend-june-7-sun-9pm-3am-tickets-1986405843350?aff=Meetup)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sundaylicious-melbourne-kings-bday-long-weekend-june-7-sun-9pm-3am-tickets-1986405843350?aff=Meetup) We’re heading to **Bond Melbourne** for a special long weekend edition of Sundaylicious. Think sexy nightclub energy, big music, beautiful people and a WILD Sunday night in one of Melbourne’s hottest venues.

**Online Speed Dating for Mature North Melbourne Singles** Live on Zoom. Real conversations. Local people who value genuine connection and traditional dating. **Pick your age group to register:** - Ages 18-32: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=18-32&face_v=2.0) - Ages 30-46: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=30-46&face_v=2.0) - Ages 40-58: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=40-58&face_v=2.0) - Ages 55+: [Click to Register](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=500.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=North%20Melbourne&groupurlname=society-of-lively-retirees-socializing-together&ar=55+&face_v=2.0) RSVP alone does not hold your spot. Register through the link above and complete the quick personality quiz. For mature singles who appreciate meaningful connections and are serious about finding the right person. Host-guided. All ages welcome. Mutual matches shared after the event.

Watching Scary Movie at HOYTS Chadstone this Sunday. Ghostface is back - looks like a fun watch. Meeting at the ticket counter at 4:30pm to buy tickets together and sit as a group. Session starts at 4:50pm, out by around 7pm. Happy to hang around after. Open to other times or locations if this doesn’t work - just drop a comment.

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → DAYLESFORD** * 📅 **MON 8 JUN - Public holiday** * 🍂 *Where golden leaves meet quiet adventure* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🍁 Daylesford: Hike, Paddle & Slow Down** May in **Daylesford** is something special. The forests turn amber and crimson, the air becomes crisp and fresh, and the lake reflects soft light. Join us for a beautifully curated day in Victoria’s spa country — where movement meets stillness, and adventure blends with calm. We’ll wander through scenic **forest trails** scattered with falling leaves, **kayak** across a tranquil lake wrapped in **colours,** pause for **meditation** among tall trees, and **savour** the simple pleasure of good company, warm drinks, and slow moments. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🌟 What’s Included — $99 ✔️ Guided 9 km autumn **easy hike** + hiking gear 🥾 ✔️ **Kayaking o**n a peaceful lake (all equipment included) 🚣‍♂️ ✔️ Guided **meditation** in nature 🍃 ✔️ Fresh **Fruit** Platter 🍉 ✔️ Unlimited snacks, soft drinks, coffee & tea ☕ ✔️ Premium round-trip transport (Mercedes minivan) 🚐 ✔️ Boutique small-group atmosphere & meaningful connections----------------------------------- ## **☘️ Your Itinerary: The Perfect Day in Daylesford** **🌅 7:30 AM** – **Pickup** at St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street 🚐 **8:00 AM** – Quick **stop/break** **☕ 9:00 AM** – Welcome **morning coffee/tea & snacks** (provided) **🥾 9:15 AM** – Easy **Hiking** adventure (9 km, 170m elevation) **🎶 12:30 PM** – **Picnic**+**Fruit platter,** with unlimited drinks & snacks (BYO lunch welcome) **🚣‍♀️ 1:30 PM** – **Kayaking** time on beautiful **Lake** (beginner friendly) 🧘 **3:00 PM** — **Meditation & grounding** **💦 3:30 PM** – Visit a **hidden waterfall** for an epic nature moment 🌲 **4:00 PM** \- Organic garlic **🏙️ 5:30 PM** – Depart back to Melbourne, full of beautiful memories 🌅 📍 **Drop-off:** Hammer Hall, Melbourne \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer**: 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** Day 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎒 What to Bring?** ✔️ **Comfortable hiking shoes (or able to supply, let me know size)** **✔️ Wind/water-resistant jacket**🧥 ✔️ **Long pants & long sleeves** 🌿 ✔️ **Hat/beanie** 🧢 ✔️ **BYO lunch** 🍽️ (or can buy on the way) ✔️ **A positive mindset & big smile!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📢 **Questions?** Feel free to **DM me anytime!** 📩 ✨ **Let’s make this an adventure to remember** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share](https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share) Instagram: [nogeography.hike.kayak](http://nogeography.hike.kayak/) [https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/](https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Credited or refunded only if the event is canceled/moved. Non-refundable in any other cases \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- * **A day in nature is a day well spent** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property at this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Join us this King's Birthday for an inner-city trail walk. Come for a social chat and fitness walk. The loop will involve a mix of paths, both flat and paved but also some more dirt trails with more uneven ground. We will pass through Fairfield and Abbotsford. You will be expected to maintain a moderately fast pace (typical pace for Eastern Hiking and Adventures) to ensure we all stay together as a group. We are likely to finish before 1pm but I have allowed extra time as a buffer. **Please read all of the following information before RSVP'ing.** · *Do not FOMO into any of the Eastern Hiking & Adventure events unless you intend to attend, i.e. check the date, the distance and complexity of the walk before joining that walk. Those members who consistently are last minute withdrawals, are no shows or disrespectful to any members or leaders will be asked to remove themselves from that walk and **may be** removed from the group. All the leaders are unpaid volunteers who spend many hours of their own time researching each walk to the best of their abilities at no cost. The organisers attempt to minimise members left on the waitlist (within reason) with priority given to those loyal members who regularly attend walks and provide an enjoyable environment for others.* **Directions**: Enter the Melbourne Polytechnic Student carpark from Yarra Bend Road or park anywhere in a car spot nearby and meet at the carpark entrance. **Fitness Level**: · A good level of fitness is required as you will be expected to walk approximately 5km/hr and we will have a 15min snack rest in the middle. **What to bring:** *2 litres of water - snacks or lunch *appropriate walking shoes - rain/wind/sun protection clothing *SPF50 sunscreen - personal First Aid kit **DISCLAIMER** · Our events may be difficult and/or hazardous. Eastern Hiking & Adventure organisers will not accept liability for any loss, injury or accident. Participants should take care, wear suitable clothing and footwear, maintain their equipment, and act appropriately in their surroundings and follow the directions of the event leader. You are responsible for your own safety. Ambulance cover is strongly recommended and by RSVP’ing to this event you indicate acceptance of these terms. We look forward to seeing you there!

A great atmosphere to meet new people and have some fun… Our dance instructors are awesome and you get to dance with everyone after the classes to the Live band. Become an appealing dancer with some of the most respected Dance Instructors in Melbourne. At Melbourne Salsa we teach you how to be a great social dancer, to give you more scope on the social floor. *** BACHATA BEGINNER LEVEL 7:00PM (Suggested duration 3–6 months) This class breaks down the rhythm and timing, basic footwork variations and leading/following fundamentals, with basic turn patterns at a slow pace. No experience required. *** BACHATA INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 7:00PM (Suggested duration 12 months) This level expands on intricate and lengthy routines at a faster pace. Requirement: For those who have danced for at least 6 months in Beginner level 1, dance in time and can pick up complicated new moves with ease. *** SALSA BEGINNER LEVEL 8:00PM (Suggested duration 3 months) This class breaks down the rhythm and timing, basic footwork variations and leading/following fundamentals, with basic turn patterns at a slow pace. No experience required. *** SALSA BEGINNER LEVEL 2 8:00PM (Suggested duration 3- 6 months) This level is not for first time Salsa students, to enter this level you must have previously completed at least 4-6 lessons in Salsa. With an emphasis on timing and more leading and following techniques, this is a faster-paced class with weekly easy to learn moves. Requirement: First Timer level or understanding of Basic footwork, timing & turn patterns. \*\*\* SALSA INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 8:00PM (Suggested duration 12 months) This level expands on intricate and lengthy routines at a faster pace. Requirement: For those who have danced for at least 6 months in Beginner level 1, dance in time and can pick up complicated new moves with ease. *** SOCIAL DANCING: Featuring a LIVE LATIN 10 piece band and DJ’s from 9.00 pm. FEES: ***ALL FOR ONLY $35*** (CASH ONLY or EFT) Whether you choose one class or 2 classes its $35 flat rate including the LIVE BAND social from 9pm. MS Dance cards cannot be used at The Night Cat. $30 entry General entry (no classes) from 8.30pm only *** DETAILS: • Our classes are structured so that you can start at any time throughout the year and you can come & go as you please. • No partner or bookings required. • The dress code is smart/casual. • Ideal footwear for ladies- a medium to high heel. • Ideal footwear for men – leather or hard rubber sole shoe. • Class is subject to change without notice. For more details call Melbourne Salsa on 95312023 or email info@melbournesalsa.com.au The Night Cat, 141 Johnston Street, Fitzroy.

Welcome, readers! Our June read is ***Endurance: Shackleton's Incredible*** ***Voyage*** **by Alfred Lansing.** A work of nonfiction, and one of the most astonishing survival stories in history, we follow Sir Ernest Shackleton and his crew after their ship is crushed by Antarctic ice. Stranded in one of the harshest environments on Earth, the men endure months of isolation, freezing temperatures, and near starvation—yet refuse to give up hope. Lansing brings their ordeal to life through vivid detail and firsthand accounts, capturing both the brutality of nature and the resilience of the human spirit. At its core, the story is a powerful testament to leadership, perseverance, and the unbreakable will to survive against impossible odds. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **all** **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

[Columbus library link to book](https://cml.bibliocommons.com/v2/record/S105C3351321) Location: The Goat River South 219 S High St, Columbus, OH 43215 Street parking is free on Sundays [Menu](https://static1.squarespace.com/static/686d3ed16745133042482c5f/t/68ff654dbb03b96875430bde/1761568077220/all_brunch-20250311.pdf) Book summary: On a hot day in Bethlehem, a twelve-year-old Palestinian-American girl is yelled at by a group of men outside the Church of the Nativity. She has exposed her legs in a biblical city, an act they deem forbidden, and their judgement will echo on through her adolescence. When our narrator finally admits to her mother that she is queer, her mother's response only intensifies a sense of shame: 'You exist too much,' she tells her daughter. Told in vignettes that flash between the U.S. and the Middle East--from New York to Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine--Zaina Arafat's debut novel traces her protagonist's progress from blushing teen to sought-after DJ and aspiring writer.

Welcome, readers! Our July read is ***A Short Walk Through a Wide World*** *by Douglas Westerbeke*. We'll follow a young woman bound by a mysterious condition that forces her to keep moving across the globe. As she journeys through vibrant cities, quiet landscapes, and centuries of time, each stop reveals new connections, fleeting relationships, and deeper questions about belonging. The novel blends adventure with introspection, exploring what it means to search for home when you can never stay in one place. It’s both a love letter to the vastness of the world and a poignant meditation on identity, memory, and human connection. Looking forward to discussing with everyone We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar** Happy reading!

Join us as we discuss our June pick: Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider! Book description: Even though she's not one of them, Brynn has spent her life among the Alaha, training to be a guard and waiting for the chance to attend the annual market hosted by the Kenta–the very same people who exiled her adopted community to a life at sea. Going to the market is a rite of passage eagerly anticipated by all young guards, but Brynn does not anticipate breaking a century-long peace treaty while there. Nor does she plan for the intense encounter with an enemy soldier that now threatens to unwind the fragile coexistence between their people–and everything Brynn once believed about herself to be true. Brynn's loyalty to the Alaha is tested when the truth of her identity is brought to light by this soldier who's taken an oath to bring her back to where she belongs. Narrowly escaping death on the violent high seas, Brynn's connection to the Alaha is further tested when she learns about the world of magic she's been denied. She was once certain of her fate and where she belonged, but the dark, knowing eyes of this stranger have her questioning everything, including her heart. Packed with knife fights and seafaring adventure, METAL SLINGER is the smash-hit start to the romantic fantasy duology, the Fire & Metal series

Come join us to discuss our July pick "Tusk Love" by Thea Guanzon! Book description: A merchant’s daughter who yearns for adventure gets more than she bargained for when she falls for a broodingly handsome stranger in this saucy romantasy from the New York Times bestselling author of The Hurricane Wars. “A true delight of a book! Spicy and heartfelt—this one is a winner all around.”—Katee Robert, author of Neon Gods As the daughter of an ambitious merchant, Guinevere’s path has been predetermined: marry into a noble house of the Dwendalian Empire, raise her family’s station, and live quietly as a lordling’s obedient wife. But Guinevere longs for a life unbounded by expectations, for freedom and passion and adventure. Those distant dreams become a sudden reality when her caravan is beset by bandits, leaving her guards slain and Guinevere stranded alone on the dangerous Amber Road. Her only chance of survival is to travel alongside Oskar, the aloof half-orc who saved her during the attack. Unlike Guinevere, Oskar’s path is not so set in stone. With his mother dead and his apprenticeship abandoned, all that’s left is a long, lonely walk to a land he’s never seen to find family he’s never met. The last thing he needs is a spoiled waif like Guinevere slowing him down—even if the spark between them sizzles with promise. Despite his cold exterior, Oskar is brave and thoughtful and unlike anyone Guinevere has ever met. And while Guinevere may be sheltered, she brings out a softness in him that he has never dared to feel before. As the flames of their passion grow, they realize that soon they’ll need to choose between their expected destinations or their blossoming romance. Written by New York Times bestselling author Thea Guanzon at the behest of Critical Role’s Jester Lavorre, Tusk Love brings the most romantic story on Exandrian bookshelves to life.