Creative Groups Sydney

Immersive Signal EP2

Hey everyone! **Immersive Signal is back** **for EP2** this time at **NeonDynamo**. Join us for an evening of immersive industry talks, creative exchange, and AV performance, bringing together artists, producers, scientists, sound artists, studios, and technologists working across light, projection, public space, biotech, installation, performance, and new media. Following the energy of our first edition, we’re continuing the mission: to build a stronger, more connected immersive creative community in Sydney, one that brings local talent into the same room, opens up space for collaboration, and connects Sydney’s scene with bigger global conversations. For this edition, we’re inviting speakers from across different corners of the immersive world, from Vivid Sydney production and biotech research to sound, public art, installation, and experiential design. **Speakers** Melanie Horkan, Producer of Vivid Sydney Dr Sean O’Donoghue, Biotech Scientist, UNSW Sydney Phondupe, Composer & Sound Artist Adela Lines & Simone Chua, Amigo & Amigo More to come… **Plus AV performance** **Presented by JŪ YU Lab** with Melanie Horkan and Susan Kosti **07/07** **6 PM** **NeonDynamo** **Free event** Come through, meet people, share ideas, and help shape the next wave of Sydney’s immersive scene.

ELIZABETH BAY HOUSE - Treading Feintly

MYSTERY ARCHITECTURE SKETCH

Crafty Creations Group

**Your monthly dose of creativity & community.** Welcome to the Beverly Hills Craft-ernoon! Got a knitting project you can’t seem to finish? Eager to meet other creative people in your corner of Sydney? Or just looking for a welcoming space to relax and make something with your hands? Our community Craft-ernoon is for you. Think of it as a creative hub for everyone—from kids discovering the joy of glitter glue to seniors sharing a lifetime of skills. It’s a relaxed, unstructured afternoon to connect with neighbours of all ages. **What to bring:** * **Your current project:** Whether it’s crochet, sketching, or scrapbooking, bring it along! * **Just yourself!** If you don’t have a project, don't worry. We’d love your help knitting or sewing a "Trauma Teddy" to comfort someone in need. All materials are provided. * **The kids!** We’ll have a station with simpler crafts ready for little hands. **All the nitty-gritty:** * **When:** 2pm on the first Saturday of every month * **Where:** Beverly Hills Baptist Church, 9 Warrawee Place, Beverly Hills (sadly, the one near Hurstville, not LA!). We're in the main hall at the back of the building. * **Cost:** Free! Seriously. We’re happy to provide the space and materials. * **Parking:** Warrawee Place can be tight, so try Tooronga Terrace or Ponyara Road for more spots. **A note from our hosts** Beverly Hills Baptist Church is delighted to host this community gathering. Our goal is simple: to provide a warm, welcoming space for people to connect and create. There are no strings attached, no religious program—just good company and craft. Everyone is welcome, exactly as you are. **Questions or ideas? Get in touch!** Alison: 0414 810 137 \| [alisonleader@gmail.com](https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&q=mailto%3Aalisonleader%40gmail.com) [bhb.org.au](https://www.google.com/url?sa=E&q=https%3A%2F%2Fbhb.org.au%2F)

Enshittification and the Power of Platforms: Is There a Way Out?

Ever wonder why so many digital services you rely on seem to be getting simultaneously worse and more expensive? More ads. Sponsored search results. Subscription creep. Auto‑renew traps. Dubious 'surge' charges. Sneaky fees. Forced sign-ins. Cancel buttons hidden. There's a term for this phenomenon: enshittification — the gradual degradation of platforms that once seemed like technological miracles offering us convenience, connection, and democratisation. But enshittification - the Macquarie Dictionary’s Word of the Year for 2024 - is just the surface symptom of something far more corrosive. Beneath the declining user experience lies a fundamental reshaping of our economy where a handful of tech platforms have positioned themselves as inescapable gatekeepers, extracting unprecedented wealth from workers, businesses, and consumers while accumulating dangerous concentrations of power — what some are now calling technofeudalism. What happened to the internet's promise of widespread prosperity and a stronger democracy? How did we end up locked into systems that seem designed to serve everyone except us? And most importantly: what can we do about it? Come join us for a vital conversation about reclaiming our digital future and building an economy that works for everyone, not just the platform owners. **Book: *Enshittification – Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What to Do About It* (2025) by Cory Doctorow** **Book (Alternative): *The Age of Extraction – How Tech Platforms Conquered the Economy and Threaten Our Future Prosperity* (2025) by Tim Wu** **Pdf Resource:** ***[Infographics and Summary Tables](https://1drv.ms/b/c/adb4f7488b2eef0a/IQB0CITwHhHJSaFBbJDhZmMEAcDSAace_BN1Q6aSYILezCI?e=edqfP9)*** (A prepared document of selected ideas from the two books) This month you have two options to read depending on your preference towards the level of analysis, style of writing, and your ease in accessing the book. *Enshittification: Why Everything Suddenly Got Worse and What to Do About It* by Cory Doctorow is a punchy, provocative, and highly readable take on why so many digital platforms seem to decline over time. Doctorow, who coined the term ‘enshittification’, argues that platforms follow a predictable lifecycle—starting out user-focused, then shifting to business customers, and finally extracting for themselves—in each stage squeezing the group it previously courted. The book is fast-paced, example-rich, and written in an accessible, almost conversational style, making it ideal if you enjoy sharp arguments, memorable concepts, and contemporary tech critique. It’s particularly appealing for readers who like books that spark immediate reactions and connect directly to everyday experiences online. *The Age of Extraction* by Tim Wu takes a broader, more analytical approach. Wu situates the problems of digital platforms within a larger historical and economic pattern, arguing that we are living in an “age of extraction” where powerful actors systematically draw value from users, workers, and society. The tone is more measured and reflective, with a focus on big-picture thinking and long-term trends. This book will appeal to readers who enjoy connecting ideas across economics, history, and politics, and who prefer a more structured, conceptual framework over a punchy polemic. Please read one (or both), depending on your interests. *The Age of Extraction* is 226 pages (or 6 hours) and *Enshittification* is 340 pages (or 10 hours, not available on Audible but is available on other platforms). Join us for a drink (and optional meal) at 6:30pm on Monday, 6th July, on the 2nd floor of the Keg & Brew Hotel in Surrey Hills (i.e. up two flights of stairs). The venue is conveniently located near Central Station and the Light Rail. Bring along an example of an app or digital service you used to really like that has since become enshittified—something you can have a quick rant about to kick off the conversation! 😊 Hope to see you there! P.S. Please adjust your RSVP if you have indicated that you will come but are no longer able to do so. This is courteous to other people if there is a waitlist. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- These are just optional links to consider to supplement the reading of the books. Feel free to pass on other useful links in the discussion section. **Videos & Podcasts** * Two-for-one: Cory Doctorow and Tim Wu together! (Curiously, as kids they were classmates in the same small primary school in Toronto!): [The Ezra Klein Show – We Didn't Ask for This Internet (1.5hrs)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yepnhe1T-9U&t) [The Oxford Internet Institute - Enshittification and Extraction (1.5hrs)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkYxMQJ9c94) * Cory Doctorow Interviews: [Prospect Magazine (28mins)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9XRREj1DSo&t) [Doctorow on The Daily Show (15 mins)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2e-c9SF5nE) [The Guardian (24 mins)](https://www.theguardian.com/news/audio/2025/nov/24/enshittification-how-we-got-the-internet-no-one-asked-for-podcast) * Tim Wu Interviews: [The Majority Report (40 mins)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BpnMk3IhV6U) [The Commonwealth Club (1 hour)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mRvMEzjTVw) * Explainer Video: [Why Every App is Getting Worse on Purpose (10 mins)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjEGRXVKQCQ) **Written** * Pdf Resource: [Infographics and Summary Tables](https://1drv.ms/b/c/adb4f7488b2eef0a/IQB0CITwHhHJSaFBbJDhZmMEAcDSAace_BN1Q6aSYILezCI?e=edqfP9) (A prepared document of selected ideas from the two books) * Enshittification Summaries and Reviews: [Wikipedia summary of Enshittification](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enshittification) [Transcript of Doctorow Lecture on Enshittification](https://doctorow.medium.com/my-mcluhan-lecture-on-enshittification-ea343342b9bc) [CounterFire Book Review ](https://www.counterfire.org/article/enshittification-why-everything-suddenly-got-worse-and-what-to-do-about-it-book-review/) * The Age of Extraction Reviews [Prospect Book Review](https://prospect.org/2025/12/10/internets-tollbooth-operators-wu-review/) [HowAustraliaReallyWorks Book Review](https://www.howaustraliareallyworks.com/2026/02/book-summary-age-of-extraction-how-tech.html) [Washington Monthly Book Review](https://washingtonmonthly.com/2025/11/02/age-of-extraction-tim-wu/)

Play Theatre Games in the Park! (Parramatta)

Join us at Parramatta River Walk to play Theatre Games with friendly and awesome people! Afterwards, we go for a drink at a nearby pub. Everyone is welcome, no matter your level of Improv expertise! Our host Paul is signed up for the Parramatta Half Marathon in the morning 🏃‍♂️He’s resolved to back up by running Theatre Games in the afternoon. Come along and help stretcher him off when he collapses! 😵 For an example of the type of fun that can go on in our days see: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a23t0evG3xI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a23t0evG3xI) There is a $3 fee per event, or you can pay a $25 annual membership fee. This covers the costs of running the group. The fee can be paid in person, or by transferring to the following account: Name: Theatre Games BSB: 923 100 Acc No: 313632027 Use your name in the reference line so the Treasurer can keep track of your contribution. If you choose to pay the annual membership fee, it would be a great help to us if you would note your membership start date, and renew your membership when needed. This will avoid us spending time on account-keeping, which means we can instead focus on making the games as fun as possible! We have Facebook and Instagram pages, on which we post group photos and occasionally other announcements. Feel free to Like :) [https://www.facebook.com/Theatre-Games-in-the-Park-Sydney-487255451682498/](https://www.facebook.com/Theatre-Games-in-the-Park-Sydney-487255451682498/) [https://www.instagram.com/theatregamesintheparksydney](https://www.instagram.com/theatregamesintheparksydney?fbclid=IwAR2fMlbCnv1PVQXX0xO7d6d_4mMDsXtT3dcs1awToamKK-ag1AAQhVYyPLQ) **FAQ** **Location & Parking** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yed3pMB9eC1oeAXA7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Yed3pMB9eC1oeAXA7) Between Church St and Sorrell St. Near the river. Down the stairs from the Riverside Theatre and to the east along the path. If you have trouble finding us, please post in the event comments as we'll keep an eye on this. Parking is free and usually ample in northern Parramatta, in Sorrell Street and surrounding streets to the north of the river. **Instructional videos for newcomers** For those completely new to the concept of theatre games or improvisation, you might find the following instructional videos helpful to you: 1. The importance of facing the audience in the right way [https://youtu.be/VO7EXv-dVYA](https://youtu.be/VO7EXv-dVYA) 2\. The importance of not saying "no" to everything in a scene: [https://youtu.be/GjptDwG96e8](https://youtu.be/GjptDwG96e8) **Why is my status saying "Unpaid" even though I have paid?** This is due to a bad design feature of the Meetup website, please ignore it! **Keeping up with the latest news and related fun events** Go to our Facebook Discussion Group. This is a fun way to share improv/comedy clips, discuss improv and generally chat with the cool members of our group! [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2112357978921450](https://www.facebook.com/groups/2112357978921450) **What if it rains?** The bridge has been chosen for this reason! A large concrete apron exists under the bridge - easily measuring 5 metres deep and at least 10m long. More than enough space to perform in and yet still provide shelter from rain. **Can you help promote my event / group / cult?** Yes.. but within reason! We love to help our members who are doing awesome and creative projects. The problem is that because we get asked to promote things so often, we cannot do so via social media posts. As this would cause our members to be "spammed" and announcements about upcoming events to get buried. However, there are still two ways we can help to promote your project. Firstly, please feel free to post on our Facebook Discussion group. Secondly, you are also welcome to post in our [Meetup Forum](https://www.meetup.com/Theatre-Games-in-the-Park/discussions/), where your post may be seen by our 1,800+ members. Lastly, we may be able to help in additional ways if you wish to share an opportunity for our members to perform. In this case we may be able to send a Meetup Message to our members, or to announce it in person at our events. **What if I have other questions?** If possible please post any questions in the comments area below rather than directly messaging us, so that others can see the answer too. This will allow us to spend less time answering messages, and more time making the games as fun as possible!

Colour My Life

Unwind this year at the Library and bring some colour into the world. A perfect balance of mindfulness and creativity, colouring is a perfect way to de-stress and relax. Build friendships and make connections in a warm and welcoming environment. All colouring pencils, textas and designs will be provided or you are more than welcome to bring your own supplies. Suitable for all skill levels and abilities. This program is best suited for adults but supervised children may also attend.

Sunset at La Perouse

Open Mic Night @ Soultrap Surry Hills

✨ Open Mic Night @ Soul Trap – Surry Hills ✨ We’ve locked in a venue — and it’s a good one. Join us at Soul Trap, Surry Hills, a small, classy, intimate spot that’s perfect for a relaxed nighttime open mic and social hang. 🎤 Want to get on the mic? Share music, poetry, acting, or anything you feel like trying out. 🍷 Mostly want to hang out and meet people? Absolutely welcome. Come watch, chat, connect, and enjoy the vibe — you don’t need to perform to be part of the night. 🎟 Free entry 🤝 Friendly, social atmosphere ✨ Come solo or bring a friend This is about community as much as creativity. Low pressure, supportive energy, good conversations, and a room full of interesting people. Hosted by Jack Davis local artist. @starsight.live

SSC MOVIE DATE – THE CHRISTOPHERS     

Speed Friending at Nauti Studios

Speed Friending in Sydney
Make Real Friends (Without the Awkward Small Talk!) Looking to meet new people in Sydney and make real, lasting friendships without awkward bar chats, dating apps, or spending a fortune? Welcome to Speed Friending, a fun, friendly social event for adults in Sydney who want genuine connection in a relaxed, creative setting. **What Happens on the Night?** You’ll arrive at our massive creative artists’ warehouse in Glebe, one of Sydney’s best hidden venues, and then throughout the evening: * You’ll be matched with people who share similar interests. * You’ll rotate through fun games and creative activities. * Some activities are one-on-one, others are small-group based. * And the focus is on doing something together, not awkward chatting. Even if you don’t instantly click with everyone, the activities keep things easy, playful, and enjoyable — and you will meet a few kindred spirits. We wrap up with an open social hang, so you can continue chatting with the people you connected with most. **What Do You Need to Bring?** Just yourself and an open mind.
No pressure. No expectations. No performance.
BYO drinks and snacks if you’d like to. **How to Join** Purchase your ticket here: **[TICKETS](https://nautistudios.com.au/nauti-studios-event-sydney-glebe/p/dfzy98vhyzffsgvuzw3zp8jbmlzvta)** Then fill out our short questionnaire so we can get a bit of an idea about you and match you with people you’re most likely to vibe with! **When & Where** **Nauti Studios in Glebe, Sydney** [(here)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/13rkg1pvdPXeS7Xb9) Last Tuesday of every month
**6:30 – 8:00 pm** Come once, or make it your monthly ritual! You’re welcome as often as you like. **Why People Love Speed Friending!** * One of the most unique things to do in Sydney for adults * Affordable, alcohol-optional, and welcoming * Designed for real connection, not surface-level mingling * Held in a creative, unique and inspiring space

Life Drawing on Saturday MORNINGS in Marrickville with fantastic models

WELCOME IN 2026 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- We're back up and running our weekly Saturday life drawing sessions Join us each Saturday for Drawn Together - Sydney life drawing group for a dynamic and inspiring life drawing session in Marrickville. Whether you are a seasoned artist or a beginner, this event offers the perfect opportunity to have fun practicing figure drawing a in a supportive and creative environment. Go to our [booking page](https://www.scratchartspace.com/book/#!/Saturday-MORNING-Life-Drawing-Untutored/p/221095835) to see who we have booked to model. Immerse yourself in a morning of creativity and artistry as you sketch, draw, and bring your ideas to life. Connect with fellow art enthusiasts, exchange techniques, and explore the world of life drawing. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your skills, unleash your creativity, and be part of a vibrant community dedicated to creating and perfecting our art. Book online [here](https://www.scratchartspace.com/book/#!/Saturday-MORNING-Life-Drawing-Untutored/p/221095835).