Civic Engagement Melbourne

Community Conversations: Pause, Reflect, Reconnect

As another year of Community Conversations comes to a close, we invite you to join us for a special evening to celebrate the conversations, friendships and meaningful connections we have shared and created throughout 2026. This final gathering will be a little different. Over a shared meal, we will take time to reflect on the ideas that have inspired us, celebrate what we have learned from one another, and explore what we would love to see in 2027. Whether you have joined us throughout the year or are coming for the first time, we would love to have you there! **\*\*Please note the 7pm start time\*\*** **Friday 20 November, 7:00pm–9:30pm** **Balwyn Park, 206A Whitehorse Road, Balwyn** The evening is free, with dinner provided. Please register/RSVP to help us plan catering.

Clean-Up & Picnic with Keep It Kirei!

**Clean-Up & Picnic with Keep It Kirei!** Join us for a relaxed afternoon of cleaning up the park, sharing snacks and meeting new people. 🗓️ Saturday, 14th November 🕠 4:30pm (or 16:30 ) 📍 Flagstaff Gardens, Melbourne 💰 Free to join ! 🍪 Please bring some snacks to share and your own drink. Everyone is welcome, whether you come alone or with friends 🤩 **Keep it Kirei** *Creating Connections Through Clean Actions.* 🔗 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/keepitkirei/)

Bentleigh Social Trivia Night

Trivia night at the Bentleigh social!

Royal Botanic Gardens Walk, Coffee, Connection & Bocce on the lawns

Join me for a relaxed afternoon walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens, with time to enjoy nature, share conversations, and connect with others outdoors. The gardens are home to more than 8,500 species of plants, with winding paths, lakes, groves, and open lawns to explore together at an easy pace. We’ll stop at the Terrace Café for takeaway drinks, enjoy a casual game of bocce or conversation together on the lawns, then continue on to the Shrine of Remembrance for views across the city. Whether you come to meet new people, enjoy meaningful conversation, learn and grow through connection with others, or simply spend time in nature you are warmly welcome. **Agenda:** 2:00pm – Meet at the circular sculpture near the Observatory & Visitors Centre, 100 Birdwood Avenue (map and photo below) 2:10pm – Depart 3:00pm – Terrace Café stop, bocce and time on the lawns 5:00pm – Finish at the Shrine of Remembrance This walk is rated easy, with a slow to moderate pace and opportunities to pause along the way. The route is mostly flat, with alternative pathways available near stairs. Please RSVP by clicking “Attend,” and I’ll be in touch with any additional details. This is a rain-or-shine event, and any updates will be posted in the Event Comments on the day.

Melbourne Coercive Control and Domestic Violence Survivors Meetup

🌿 Living the Circle:The Journey of the GREEN BIN| Part 2 of 5

**Ever wondered what happens to your food scraps after the green bin is collected?** 🌱 Join Eco-Impact Tribe for a relaxed, interactive meetup exploring the journey of food and garden waste, from our homes to composting facilities and back into the environment. As part o*f Living the Circle*, our five-part series exploring the circular economy, this second session will look at how food waste is managed, the challenges involved and how we can make the system more circular. 📍 **Meeting Point:** Au79 Café, Abbotsford * **12:30–12:45 pm \| Arrival** Come say hello, settle in at our table, then head to the counter to order your food and drinks. * **12:45–1:00 pm \| Welcome & Introductions** A quick introduction to Eco-Impact Tribe, the session and everyone around the table. * **1:00–1:15 pm \| Following the FOGO Journey** Discover how organic waste can become a valuable resource. * **1:15–1:30 pm \| Lunch & Connection** Take a break, enjoy some food and connect with others. * **1:30–1:45 pm \| Interactive Group Challenge** Explore the opportunities & challenges within the FOGO system * **1:45–2:00 pm \| Open Discussion & Wrap\-Up** Share perspectives, exchange ideas and explore how we can better close the loop. Expect friendly conversations, shared experiences, interactive activities and a fun group challenge. It's also a chance to meet like-minded people, exchange ideas and learn from different perspectives. No expert knowledge needed. Just bring your curiosity! ***About your hosts, Daniela & Osh*** Daniela is the founder of *Eco-Impact Tribe,* a community within *Find Your Tribe Melbourne,* bringing people together to explore sustainability and positive action. Osh holds a Master’s in Sustainability from Deakin University, with a research background in circular economy and food waste management. *Together, we're creating a space to share knowledge, exchange ideas and learn from different perspectives.* 📸 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.

English Conversation Thursday Class

We invite you to come and practise your English with people from all over the world in a friendly environment. We are open to all levels from beginner to advanced. We have classes in small groups and you will be placed in one of these groups according to your level of English. Our free conversational English classes are every Thursday evening (except term breaks). If you are coming for the first time, please come on time for registration. Please note: English Corner is for non-native speakers. Our team of facilitators is really looking forward to having a wonderful time speaking English with you! **Please scan the QR code upon arrival to register your attendance.** If this is your first time, we recommend arriving a bit earlier to complete your initial registration. In case you aren't able to join us face to face we have an Online Alternate English Conversation Thursday class option too! Sign up for this on Meetup.

Still Life Drawing & Social Hike

[👉🏻 GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE) 👈🏻](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2003848013350?aff=oddtdtcreator) **🗓️ Date:** Sunday, 15 November 2026 📍 **Location:** Warrandyte State Park (Approximately 45 minutes from Melbourne CBD on weekends) **🚙 Need a lift?** Refer to the event on Eventbrite. 📏 **Hike Distance:** Around 10 km total. 🔗 **Trail Map:** Refer to the event on Eventbrite. 🕙 **Hike Start Time:** 9:45 AM. Please arrive 15 minutes early at the hike/parking location (shared via a private Instagram group chat). This gives time for a quick check-in, icebreaker and, if available, a toilet break before we kick off at 10:00 AM. 🕔 **Hike End Time:** 1:00 PM. 🚶‍♂️ **Pace/Difficulty:** Friendly and social / Easy \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🎨🥂 **Still Life Drawing Experience** We’re excited to bring you Australia’s first Social Hikes x Still Life Drawing experience! Our talented volunteer artists from our community will be on hand to help guide you and make the experience fun and enjoyable for everyone. Spend the afternoon painting the beautiful scenery, recreating your favourite photo from the hike, or simply letting your creativity run wild. Enjoy a relaxing 2–3 hour still-life painting session at [Nevermind Bar.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/94k9vgEcRAFPBDaY9 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/94k9vgEcRAFPBDaY9") 🕙 **Still Life Drawing Start Time:** 3:00 PM 🕔 **Still Life Drawing End Time:** 5:30 PM \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 👩🏻‍🍳🍪 Kitchen by Lily will be offering their **signature caramel slice** on the hike [@kitchen.bylily](https://www.instagram.com/kitchen.bylily?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&psln=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== "https://www.instagram.com/kitchen.bylily?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&psln=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==") 👉Please ensure you follow us on Instagram [@SocialHikesAU](https://www.instagram.com/socialhikesau/ "https://www.instagram.com/socialhikesau/") before booking, as Instagram does not allow us to add non-followers to group chats. After purchasing your ticket, you'll receive a WhatsApp message with the group chat link within approximately 1 hour. If you do not have WhatsApp, DM us on [@SocialHikesAU](https://www.instagram.com/socialhikesau/ "https://www.instagram.com/socialhikesau/") or reach out via SMS (info at the end). **Please note:** Start / Assembly location on Eventbrite may not be accurate (due to their software mapping limitation) - exact location to be shared on IG group chat. If you do not have Instagram or WhatsApp, it's your responsibility to reach out to us via the contact number below. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- *Looking to meet new people, explore nature, and have a good laugh along the way?* This is your perfect Sunday plan! 🎉 We’re excited to invite you to our upcoming Melbourne Social Hike. A welcoming day out where the focus is all about fun, friendships and fresh air. Whether you come solo or bring a mate, you’ll leave with new connections and memories! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🚙 Carpooling Makes It Happen** At Social Hikes Australia, carpooling is a big part of what makes our hikes possible. Every extra seat means another person gets to join. Fewer cars, easier logistics and a more social, fun start to the day. Carpooling is also a great way to meet people before the hike even begins, share a few laughs, get to know each other, and arrive together. It’s simple, social, and one of the best parts of the experience 🌿 💡 Carpool tickets are offered at a discounted price to encourage drivers to offer seats and make the hikes accessible for everyone. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 👉 **For Drivers** If you’ve got spare seats, offering a lift makes a big difference. It helps others join, reduces parking stress and makes the ride more enjoyable from the start. 👉 **For Passengers** Passengers are to contact drivers directly using the details provided in the carpool sheet (linked at the top of the description). The sheet shows information from carpooler tickets (Drivers Offering Seats). ✨ **Best practice:** Try to organise your ride before purchasing a ticket to avoid last-minute stress. 🚽Use the toilet before arriving, as there may not be toilet facilities at the meeting point or along the hike. **Please note:** Drivers and passengers should stick to the arrangements they make. We do not recommend swapping drivers or cars after you’ve agreed on a ride. If you do decide to change, please make sure all parties are clearly informed and agree to avoid confusion. If a driver forgets, gets mixed up, or doesn’t pick you up, Social Hikes Australia (and your driver) are **not liable** for any inconvenience caused. For this reason, it is best to keep things simple with the driver you first arranged with. ⚠️ **Important Notes** * Please stick with the carpool arrangement you agree on. * Avoid swapping drivers unless everyone is clearly informed and agrees. * Petrol, parking, and other costs are not included in the ticket price. These should be agreed upon directly between the driver and passengers. * Social Hikes Australia is not responsible for any issues with private carpool arrangements. 📍 **Pick-Up Info** Drivers will share their preferred pick-up locations, such as major CBD train stations like Parliament, Richmond, South Yarra, Southern Cross, or North Melbourne. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🤩 Why Join?** 🌟 Make new friends in a relaxed, casual way. 🌟Enjoy nature and fresh air while meeting like-minded people your age 🌟Friendly vibes full of laughs, chats and good times guaranteed 🌟You never know. Today’s hiking buddy could be tomorrow’s uni mate, housemate, or travel buddy! 🌟Your safety is our priority. Equipped with a first aid kit on hand. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🎟️ **Tickets:** **All tickets are $20 per person.** This helps cover: * Public liability insurance * A $2.40 contribution per ticket directly to Parks Victoria * Experienced guides with a tour operator license who know the trails well * First aid kit and safety equipment for the group 🚗 **Carpoolers Discount** If you’re driving and offer seats to passengers, your ticket is only **$5** 🙌. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🥾 What to Bring:** 👟 Comfy hiking shoes 💧 2–3L of water 🥪 Snacks/lunch ☀️ Sun protection (hat, sunnies, sunscreen) 🦟 Bug spray (always a good idea) 🎒 Optional: hiking poles, wet weather gear/raincoat \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📌 **How It Works:** After purchasing your ticket, you’ll receive a link to our private Instagram group chat. All final details will be shared there: Hike route, meet-up location and any last-minute updates. Friendly pace, friendly faces! This hike is intentionally slow–medium so everyone can enjoy and chat along the way. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Why Join Us?** 🌱 Make new friends in a relaxed, casual way. 🌱 Enjoy nature while meeting people your age. 🌱 No pressure, just good vibes and real connections. 🌱 You never know. Today’s hiking buddy could be tomorrow’s uni mate, flatmate, or travel buddy! 🌱 Your safety is our priority. Equipped with a first aid kit on hand. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🍽️ **Food Arrangement** After our hike, we love keeping the good vibes rolling with a meal together. We’ll suggest a café or restaurant that’s usually on the way back toward the city, so it’s easy for everyone and avoids extra driving. It’s always a highlight of the day swapping stories from the trail, sharing laughs and getting to know your fellow hikers even better over some good food. Joining is optional, but most people stick around because it’s such a fun way to finish the adventure. Everyone just covers their own meal, and we’ll confirm the spot in the Instagram group chat on the day. When booking, you’ll be asked if you’d like to join: Yes / No / Not Sure. The organisers will confirm the restaurant or bar on the day, based on feedback. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **⚠️ Important:** Must be 18+ years old to attend. Hike at your own risk. You are responsible for your own safety and belongings. Respectful, kind behaviour is a must. We are a positive and welcoming community. Zero tolerance for any unwelcome behaviour. We’re here to have fun together! For this hike, we recommend that all participants download the AllTrails app before the event. This will help you: * View the trail map in advance * Track your progress during the hike * Stay on course in case you get separated from the group Having AllTrails ensures everyone can enjoy the hike safely and confidently. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **📜 Liability & Waiver** By joining this hike, you acknowledge that participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Social Hikes Australia is not liable for accidents, injuries, illnesses, theft, or transport-related issues. 🚑 If you have previous injuries, medical conditions, or health concerns, discuss with the organiser before purchasing your ticket. Transport/carpooling is a community initiative only, not a service. 👉 Please make sure to read our [Terms & Conditions (click here)](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tUzOL94hk5Uk5c7FOjiPRHXZz--5H9p5/view?usp=share_link "https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tUzOL94hk5Uk5c7FOjiPRHXZz--5H9p5/view?usp=share_link") before purchasing your ticket. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Refund Policy:** Tickets are non-refundable unless the hike is cancelled or rescheduled. Tickets cannot be transferred to another hike unless agreed with the organisers. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🚭 NO Smoking & Vaping Policy** To keep the experience enjoyable for everyone, smoking and vaping are not permitted during the hike or while walking with the group. We want everyone to enjoy the fresh air and nature without smoke or vapour, and to reduce fire risk, especially during summer. Hikers who ignore this policy may be asked to leave the event and may not be permitted to attend future hikes. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🌧 Rain Policy** If the forecast shows over 15 mm in 6 hours or 20+ mm during the day, we may postpone or adjust the hike to keep things safe and enjoyable. Slippery trails, flooding, and poor visibility are no fun or safe. We’ll also reschedule for thunderstorms or if trails are still soaked from heavy rain the days before. Light rain (under 5 mm/hour) is usually fine. We’ll check each hike case-by-case. Safety first 🌿 If it changes and gets heavier, we’ll reschedule for the following event instead. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🌿 About Social Hikes Australia** Social Hikes Australia started in 2023 with one simple goal: bringing people together through nature. Since then, we've completed over 45 hikes, exploring everything from coastal walks to mountain peaks and hidden trails. Along the way, we've met hundreds of amazing people, created lifelong friendships, and built a community that keeps growing. We're excited to now be expanding across Australia, with regular hikes becoming part of our schedule. Every event is a chance to explore somewhere new, meet like-minded people, and spend a day outdoors surrounded by good company. Whether you're an experienced hiker or it's your very first hike, everyone is welcome. Come for the hike, stay for the friendships. 👉 Follow us on Instagram [@SocialHikesAU](https://www.instagram.com/socialhikesau/ "https://www.instagram.com/socialhikesau/") for upcoming hikes and updates. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💸 Where Your Contribution Goes:** Advertising and outreach – helping us bring in new people to every event. $2.40 per person – paid directly to Parks Victoria as part of the per-day use fee. Public liability insurance – so we’re covered for safety and compliance. First aid kit supplies – keeping our hikes safe and prepared. Tour Operator Licence. Every ticket makes it possible to cover the essentials and keep creating safe, social, and welcoming outdoor adventures. 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **📞 Organiser Contact:** We highly encourage you to text our organiser team before purchasing your ticket if you have any concerns about transport: Jacob 📱 [0404 870 123](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/manage/events/1998884832342/details "https://www.eventbrite.com.au/manage/events/1998884832342/details") l Sebas 📱 [0435 993 237]() 🥳 Ready to make friends, explore Melbourne’s beautiful nature, and have a blast? Spots are limited, so grab your ticket now and let's hike, laugh and connect! 🌿🎉

BeSocial. Real Talk Night (Prompt-Based Conversations)

Join us for “Real Talk Night” a deeper, more meaningful kind of meetup built around prompt-based conversations. Each session features thoughtful questions designed to spark honest discussions, fresh perspectives, and genuine connection. This is a space to go beyond small talk, share experiences, and be heard in a supportive, respectful environment. You can participate as much or as little as you like — whether you’re opening up or simply listening, you’re welcome here. **Please note that downloading our app is a requirement for attending the event.** The app will be used throughout the event for prompts, activities, and other interactive content so having it ready will ensure you can fully participate. https://apps.apple.com/au/app/besocial/id6759604739 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appetiser.besocial&hl=en **Event photography and videography may take place at this event. Images and footage captured may be used in future BeSocial promotional materials.** **If you do not wish to appear in promotional materials, please notify Nexaro Group Pty Ltd before the event by emailing [support@besocialapp.co,](http://support@besocialapp.co,/) or let the event hosts know on the day.**

Rotary Club of MALVERN Lunchtime Meeting

About our meetings \~ start on time \~ finish on time \~ welcomes cultural diversity \~ welcomes men & women To ask any questions about Rotary, our club, our projects and/or this weeks meeting please email our President on president@rotarymalvern.org.au

Brighton Theatre Co @ 1.30pm - Play "A Simple Act Of Kindness"

Gallery & Coffee Friend Outing

Join a small group for a relaxed gallery visit followed by coffee and conversation. This event is a great way to meet people without the pressure of constant talking. We’ll explore a gallery or exhibition together, take our time looking around, and then head to a nearby cafe afterwards to chat about what we saw. Art, design, and creative spaces naturally give people something to talk about, making this a great event if you want connection to feel more organic. You don’t need to know anything about art to join — curiosity is more than enough. Come solo, meet the group, and enjoy a thoughtful weekend activity with people who are also looking to make genuine friendships. The coffee afterwards is where conversations can continue and people can get to know each other more personally. **Perfect for:** creative people, gallery lovers, coffee lovers, quiet conversationalists, and anyone wanting a calm social experience. **Please note that downloading our app is a requirement for attending the event.** The app will be used throughout the event for prompts, activities, and other interactive content so having it ready will ensure you can fully participate. https://apps.apple.com/au/app/besocial/id6759604739 https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appetiser.besocial&hl=en **Event photography and videography may take place at this event. Images and footage captured may be used in future BeSocial promotional materials.** **If you do not wish to appear in promotional materials, please notify Nexaro Group Pty Ltd before the event by emailing support@besocialapp.co, or let the event hosts know on the day.**