Conservation Groups Melbourne

Riverside Bush Regeneration

Meeting in the car park of the Heavenly Queen Temple, 20 Joseph Road, Footscray. Bring along a bottle of water, wear a hat and old clothing. Gardening gloves are handy, but these will be provided if you need them. Come and meet some friendly, like-minded people working to increase the amount of native bushland along the banks of the beautiful Maribyrnong River.

Phillip Island Penguins, Koalas & Hike Tour

## Watch the ocean crash, cruise cliffside roads, and lock eyes with a koala mid-nap. Add penguins at sunset and suddenly this isn’t just a stop — it’s a core memory. No filter needed. A day shaped by nature and movement Leaving Melbourne, the journey heads toward Phillip Island with relaxed pacing and local commentary focused on wildlife, coastal landscapes, and conservation rather than scripted facts. Churchill Island, Explore the historical grounds and farming activities, walk the bay trails soaking in the tranquil scenery and enjoying the bird watching huts. Koalas in the wild Koala Conservation Reserve. Begin with a peaceful walk through eucalyptus woodland on elevated boardwalks, where koalas can be seen resting, feeding, and moving freely in their natural habitat. Your entry ticket is included, and the experience prioritizes quiet observation and animal welfare. Free time for lunch in Cowes Stop in Cowes, Phillip Island’s main township, with time to choose your own lunch. Lunch is not included by design, allowing flexibility for different dietary needs, preferences, and cultural beliefs. Cafes, bakeries, and takeaway options are available. Cape Woolamai coastal hike Enjoy a coastal hike at Cape Woolamai, following clifftop trails with sweeping ocean views, rugged rock formations, and abundant birdlife. The hike is paced for enjoyment rather than speed, with time for photos, rest, and appreciation of the landscape. This active element transforms the day from a sightseeing tour into a genuine coastal adventure. The Nobbies coastal boardwalk Continue to The Nobbies, where boardwalks stretch above crashing waves and rocky headlands. Learn about local marine life, seabirds, and the powerful Southern Ocean that shapes this coastline. Penguin Parade at sunset End the day with the world-famous Phillip Island Penguin Parade. Watch little penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle back to their burrows at sunset. Your entry ticket is included, and the experience follows strict guidelines to ensure penguin protection and minimal disturbance. **#Real Small Groups:** Maximum 11 Guests **#Pick-up & Drop-off Location:** [Federation Square Bus & Coach Pickup Drop-off Zone](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/9887a0_2d0590703f45405c9231c0fabc314ad5~mv2.jpeg) **#Pick-up & Drop-off Time:** 11:00am-11:00pm **#Activity Level:** Easy-Moderate ### #What to Bring * Comfortable walking or hiking shoes * A warm jacket (weather can change) * Hat & sunglasses * Sunscreen * Motion sickness medication if needed ### #Important * Not suitable for children under 7 years old * Cancellations or rescheduling require 7 days’ written notice * Requests must be emailed to: [info@ch-ex.com.au](mailto:info@ch-ex.com.au) ### #What's Included * Small-group transport * All entry tickets * Professional local guide * Complimentary drink * Snacks throughout the day * Free one instant printed photo (take-home souvenir) * Carbon offset through tree planting * All listed stops and experiences ### #What's Excluded * Lunch or dinner (to allow flexibility for dietary needs and beliefs) * Personal expenses

Wings & Wild Things of Banyule: Wildlife & Bird Photography

**WEATHER DEPENDENCY & UPDATES** This event is strictly weather dependent. Please check the event page on **Friday 18/9** for a final update on conditions and confirmation. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Join us for a wildlife and bird photography session at Banyule Flats Reserve, a 46.47-hectare haven famous for inspiring Heidelberg School artists. Home to over 153 bird species alongside kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and wallabies, it’s an ideal spot to capture the vibrant nature along the Yarra River and Banyule Swamp. **Schedule** 8.30am - Meet at [Banyule Flats Reserve Car Park ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SpoVRfwEASm13Jd26)(off Somerset Drive, Viewbank) [googlemap link ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SpoVRfwEASm13Jd26) (TBC the trail route) 11.30am - Meet for Brunch - location TBC 12.30pm - Meetup ends **What to Bring:** * Your camera and lens (a telephoto lens is highly recommended, and a wider lens can be useful for habitat shots) * Tripod (optional but can be helpful for stability, especially with longer lenses) * Comfortable and quiet walking shoes suitable for varied terrain * Water and snacks * Appropriate clothing for the weather and potentially muddy conditions * Your respect for nature and a keen eye for detail! Target Birds (we may or may not find): **Ducks & Grebes:** Pacific Black Duck, Chestnut Teal, Pink-eared Duck, Musk Duck, and Hoary-headed / Australasian Grebes. **Kingfishers:** Sacred Kingfisher and Azure Kingfisher **Parrots & Honeyeaters:** Red-rumped Parrot, Australian King-Parrot, Eastern & Crimson Rosellas, Rainbow & Musk Lorikeets, Gang-gang Cockatoo. **Important Notes:** * We will prioritise the well-being of all wildlife and maintain a respectful distance at all times. * Please be mindful of noise and movement to avoid disturbing potential subjects. By signing up and attending this event, you and your guest agree to the above disclosures and the [MEETUP GUIDELINES](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Tlklt2nqT-B8RnDaxvmZv8vsGXy3w8rVpiArNf_-f8/edit?tab=t.0) Annie and Andrew

Coffee + Convo = Connection

Let’s catch up over coffee and food and play with the Art of Conversation cards! For those new to the Art of Conversation cards, they serve as an invitation to more in depth and meaningful conversation. Often going deeper than small talk, but how deep you want to go is up to you. An example of some questions you’ll find on the cards includes: ⭐️ Who is a person from your past that taught you something you still use today? ⭐️ What is a belief you held five years ago that you disagree with now? ⭐️ You can go to the past or the future, which one would you choose and why? I like to keep the group small (about six people) to allow for genuine connection to emerge. See you there!

Eco-Impact Tribe:The Conscious Traveller

# **The Conscious Traveller** ### **Small Choices for a More Sustainable Trip** Inspired by a recent trip where I found myself wishing I had more practical tools to make more conscious choices while travelling, I thought: let’s figure it out together. Bring your **tips, experiences and questions**, plus the things you’d love to see changed when it comes to travelling more sustainably. From what we pack to hotels freebies , eating out, shopping and everyday holiday choices, let’s share ideas and learn from each other. **The goal? To leave feeling a little more equipped for our next, more conscious trip.** 📍Meeting Point: **Three Bags Full, 60 Nicholson St, Abbotsford VIC 3067** ☕ Plan for the afternoon * **1:15 PM** — Arrival, coffee & casual introductions * **1:45 PM** — We gently dive into the conversation and fabric exploration * **2:45 PM** — Wrap up and finish (café close / table release) To support the venue, we kindly ask that you purchase a coffee and/or snack during the event. Please note that the venue does not offer split bills, so **cash is preferred**. \* A few photos may be taken for community sharing. If you’d prefer not to be included, just let the host know at the start. **Whether you’re interested in sustainability, conscious living, or simply learning something new, you’re warmly welcome.**

Engineering Machine Consciousness Monthly Meetup

The discussion topic for this meetup will be identity and whether or not history is a necessary condition for consciousness as Dretske proposed. James

🏕️Grampians Camping + Hiking

[👉🏻 GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE) 👈🏻](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1995398850677?aff=oddtdtcreator) [EVENT DETAILS HERE](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1blkChDDC24lwGUHKiQ_leB3uSX7SNmAs/view)

Afternoon walk Scotchman’s Creek Trail

Albert Park Lake - Sunday Walk

**Albert Park Lake** With Father's Day next Sunday, our next Walk will be the following Sunday, September 13th. For this walk, we'll be heading back to the popular Albert Park Lake. We’ll walk the tan track which runs around the entire lake. With the city skyline as the backdrop, it’s the perfect Sunday morning walk – with that all-important coffee along the way. **Start:** Meet outside the **Middle Park Hotel,** corner of **Canterbury Rd** and **Armstrong St**, Middle Park. **Start time:** 9.00 AM **Parking:** Park along Canterbury Road or in the side streets of the Middle Park Shopping Centre. **The Walk**: The walk is the well-formed tan track around the lakeside. It’s a circuit so we’ll walk around the lake and finish back at our cars. **Total distance**: 5.5 km. **Time:** Allow 2.0 hours for the walk, plus half hour for coffee. Total 2.5 hours. **Difficulty:** Easy **Toilets:** Near the start, plus at the café. **Coffee:** The **Boat Shed Café** at the yacht club on the lake.

YUMI – The Whole World: The Pacific fight for climate justice

Jumping Creek (Warrandyte) Walk

HiKE🥾retreat - GOLFIELDS JOURNEY: A Camino-Style🗺️Adventure +🌅Sunset🛶Kayaks

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → GOLDFIELDS**🏙️ * 📅 **SAT-SUN** 25-26 **SEP, 2-DAY TRIP ☀️** * **🌄 HiKE Retreat – Goldfields Journey** **✨ A Camino-Style Walk of Stillness, Connection & Adventure ✨** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **2 Days \| 55 km \| Small Group \(7 walkers\) \| Camino\-Style Supported Experience** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Step into history, nature, and soul** on this Camino-inspired retreat walk through Victoria’s Goldfields. Over two unforgettable days, we’ll journey 55 km along the scenic Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail, where rolling **farmland, historic bridges, wildlife**, and **creative country** towns set the stage for reflection, connection, and discovery. ✨ This is more than a **hike.** It’s a **mindful** adventure — a chance to walk at a soulful pace, share stories, enjoy silences, and reconnect with nature and self. Supported every step of the way by our minivan, we’ll travel light and carefree, focusing only on the path ahead. 🌙 Evenings bring cozy **country stays,** hearty local **meals**, warm **accommodation**, **kangaroo** greetings, and shared circles beneath the stars. Our retreat closes with a golden-hour **sunset kayaking experience** — a perfect symbol of flow, stillness, and arrival. 💫 *Come walk with us. Slow down. Breathe deeply. And let this journey become your story.* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🎒 What’s Included: **🌟 All-Inclusive Package - Just $249!** ✅Round-trip transport in a comfy **Mercedes minivan** 🚐 ✅ 1-night **accommodation** **in cozy country house** (shared rooms) 🛏 ✅ Guided **55 km retreat hike (2 days)** + minivan support (for luggage) 🥾 ✅ Gourmet **Soup** 🍵 + Fresh **Sandwich** Selection 🍞 ✅ Sunset **kayaking** experience + gears 🌊 ✅ Morning **coffee & tea** + unlimited snacks, soft drinks ☕ ✅ Guided **Meditation** in nature 🧘🏞️ ✅ Reflection **cards**, pilgrim passport + stamps ✅ **Fruit** platter 🍉 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## Itinerary ### 🕊️ Day 1 – Ballarat → Linton (29 km) * 06:30 – Meet in Melbourne (**St Paul’s Cathedral**, Flinders St) * 07:30 – Gentle **break** stop ☕ * 09:00 – Arrival: **Morning coffee/tea** (provided, unlimited) 🍵 * 09:15 – Begin **Walk:** silent first steps through gold rush landscapes 🚶‍♀️ * 11:00 – Mindful pause: **Meditation** & grounding in nature 🍃 * 13:00 – Nourishing **Lunch**: **gourmet soup** 🥣 + fresh **sandwich** 🥗 * 14:00 – Continue **walk**: through peaceful goldfields scenery✨ * 16:00 – Wildlife **connection** 🌳 * 17:00 – Arrive in Linton – check in cozy **country house** 🏡 * 18:00 – **Group dinner** at local restaurant 🍽️ * 20:00 – **Evening circle** + starry sky reflections 🌌+ peaceful music ### **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** ## 🌳 Day 2 – Linton → Skipton (26 km) * 07:30 – **Breakfast**🍞 at local café ☕ * 08:30 – **Begin walk** – couples walk & mindful silence 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ * 11:00 – Reflection stop: ✍️ journaling + **meditation** ✨ * 13:00 – Picnic lunch by creek 🧺 + **fruit platter** 🍇 * 16:00 – **Arrive** in Skipton – closing ritual at old station 🙏 * 17:00 – Sunset 🌅 **kayaking** – golden hour bliss 🛶 * 18:00 - **Platypuses** viewing time 🌳 * 18:30 – Celebration **time** together 🥂 * 19:30 – Depart back to Melbourne, full of beautiful memories 🌅 📍 **Drop-off:** Hammer Hall, Melbourne 🚐 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🌟 Trip Highlights 🥾 **Guided 55 km Camino-style walk** – Ballarat to Skipton Rail Trail 🍲 **Gourmet soup + sandwich + unlimited snacks/drinks (inc.)** 🛏 **1 night in cozy country accommodation** (shared rooms) 🥘 **Group dinners** celebrating local food & flavour 🚌 **Full Mercedes minivan support** for luggage + rest stops 🍉 Fruit **platter** 🧘 **Mindful practices** – meditation, journaling, reflection cards 🌅 **Sunset kayaking** with all gear provided 🌌 **Evening circles** under starry skies 📖 **Pilgrim passports & stamps** at trail towns \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **RSVP to secure your spot. Please make a** 💳 **Transfer $249** no later than a **week** before the trip: **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** HR 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**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** * Lightweight backpack (20L) * Comfortable walking shoes & socks 🥾 * Weather-appropriate layers + rain gear * Water bottles or hydration system * Journal & pen (optional for reflections) ✍️ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **✨ *Limited to 7 spots only.*** **📩 DM for details or to reserve your place -** let me know your dietary requirements \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** * The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property on 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!