Brain Teasers Sydney

Monopoly (Sunday)

Badminton training Granville - Advanced & intermediate 🏸

Training 🏸 for advanced and intermediate. Contact Kim on whatsapp 0416 379 688 for more information. By RSVPing to this event, the members and guests are explicitly and without exception deemed to have read and agreed to the Group’s terms of Disclaimer and Release of Liability. You can get personal injuries insurance for yourself by joining Sydney Badminton Association, please come and see me for details. Regards, Kim

Play Theatre Games in the Park! (Sydney)

Join us at the Botanic Gardens, next to the Cupid Statue, 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! 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!

Badminton training Granville - Beginner & intermediate 🏸

Training 🏸 for beginner and intermediate. Contact Kim on whatsapp 0416 379 688 for more information. By RSVPing to this event, the members and guests are explicitly and without exception deemed to have read and agreed to the Group’s terms of Disclaimer and Release of Liability. You can get personal injuries insurance for yourself by joining Sydney Badminton Association, please come and see me for details. Regards, Kim

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! 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!

Badminton Training Granville - Juniors (3-14yrs)

• How much for ? Fee on enquiry. 0416 379 688 on WhatsApp • What to bring Bring your badminton gears and plenty of water! • Important to know Disclaimer: By RSVPing to this event, the members and guests are explicitly and without exception deemed to have read and agreed to the Group’s terms of Disclaimer and Release of Liability. You can get personal injuries insurance for yourself by joining Sydney Badminton Association, please come and see me for details.

Unhurried Conversations - Saturday

Bring yourself along, we explain how it works.

Australian Skeptics in the Pub - BUILDING TRUST IN AI AND ROBOTS

Artificial intelligence and robotics are advancing at an extraordinary pace. However, despite this rapid technological progress, robots remain largely absent from most people's everyday lives. Why? In this talk, **Resul Dagdanov** explores the gap between what robots can do and what people actually want. Drawing on research from robotics, psychology, and business, he examines the factors that influence whether AI-driven robotic technologies succeed or fail outside the laboratory. The discussion challenges the assumption that better technology naturally leads to wider adoption. Instead, it argues that the future of robotics depends on understanding people first and then designing machines that solve real-world problems to satisfy human needs. As robots become increasingly capable, the real question may not be whether they can perform tasks with highest accuracy, but whether we are designing them in ways that people want to live and work with. Resul Dagdanov is a robotics engineer and researcher pursuing a PhD at the University of Technology Sydney's Robotics Institute. His research focuses on human-centric robotics: designing intelligent robots that can work alongside humans, with humans, and for humans. Drawing on engineering, psychology, and human behaviour, he explores how humans and robots can collaborate in everyday settings. As he wanders through this steppe lands of robotics, his research is guided by the principle: putting people first. His work explores an important question: if robots are becoming increasingly capable, what will it take for people to trust, accept, and adopt them in their daily lives? **After the presentation:** Following the presentation and questions, if there's time we will hand the microphone over to one audience member for a 5 minute chat on a sceptical topic of their choice. It can be a news item, your own sceptical "special subject" or an encounter with everyday scepticism. If you're interested in sharing something with your fellow pubbers, contact us before the talk. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- On the first Thursday of each month, Australian Skeptics and friends get together for Skeptics in the Pub. People generally start arriving at around 6pm after work. The talk begins at 7pm and lasts for about 30 minutes. The night finishes when the last person leaves. Enjoy a meal and a drink accompanied by lively discussion, free spoon bending lessons and the company of other sceptics, as we cover a variety of interesting topics. There is no need to belong to Australian Skeptics - all are welcome. Bring friends too. Please take a moment to read our [Code of Conduct](https://www.skeptics.com.au/code-of-conduct/). **REMINDER - If you are feeling ill or showing any signs or symptoms of a possible COVID (or indeed any) infection, please do not attend.** Parking is available nearby at: * 71 York Street Car Park (Wilson Parking) * Landmark Car Park (Secure Parking), 24 York Street * 321 Kent Street Car Park (Wilson Parking), ENTRY 86 Sussex Street * Queen Victoria Building Car Park (Wilson Parking), 111 York Street

COCKLE BAY CIRCLES

The Immigration Debate: Myths, Facts and Ethics

Immigration is one of the most emotionally charged issues in global politics today. No other issue generates as much heat, fear, or political division. But how much of what we hear about immigration is true? What are its actual effects on jobs, housing, public services, innovation and social cohesion? Has global migration actually been increasing — and do border restrictions even work? And even if we could agree on the facts, what ethical principles should guide our thinking? Do people have a right to seek a better life across borders? What do wealthy nations owe to those displaced by poverty, conflict, or climate change? How should we balance compassion, fairness, freedom and national self-determination? Join us for a thoughtful discussion as we explore one of the most important and controversial global questions of our time. **Book: *How Migration Really Works – A Factful Guide to the Most Divisive Issue in Politics* (2023) by Hein de Haas** **Companion Reading:** ***[The Ethics of Migration - An Introductory Guide v3](https://1drv.ms/b/c/adb4f7488b2eef0a/IQBTPryri9fhQ7DbyWSM78dqARlLVy5RSfRYrrllo-s5zb8?e=JElK3l)*** (prepared for this meetup) **Essential Ideas at a Glance: *[Infographics, Tables and Summaries on Migration Myths](https://1drv.ms/b/c/adb4f7488b2eef0a/IQDhmc7ksrVEQ5ZHZukMnbGZAWgYg_puO_IQhUu976w6aog?e=NLFebq)*** (prepared for this meetup) For this month’s meetup we have two principal readings that approach migration from complementary angles: one examines the myths and realities of migration across the world, while the other explores its ethical dimensions. In *How Migration Really Works*, Dutch migration scholar Hein de Haas argues that much of the public debate is driven by myths and misunderstandings. Although Australia receives some attention, this is not a book specifically about the Australian migration debate; it is a wide-ranging account grounded in decades of international research. De Haas explores questions such as whether migration is increasing, whether immigration lowers wages, whether immigration fixes the problem of an ageing population, and whether governments can effectively control migration flows. The result is a nuanced and evidence-based account of migration. The accompanying guide to the ethics of immigration examines the deeper questions that facts alone cannot answer. Even if we agree on the evidence, what should immigration policy aim to achieve? The guide introduces the major ethical perspectives and arguments from across the political spectrum, providing a framework for thoughtful and informed discussion. As always, we strongly encourage you to do the reading before you attend. This will enrich both your experience and our collective discussion. We’ve also included some further resources below, including articles on Australian migration, that you may find useful. So join us for a drink (and optional meal) at 6:30pm on Monday, 3rd August, 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. We look forward to seeing 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 others if there is a waitlist. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- These are just optional links to consider to supplement the reading of the book and document. Feel free to pass on other useful links in the discussion section. **Videos** * Two presentations by Hein de Haas on his book: [How Migration Really Works (1hr)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuwiwD67AjM) [How Migration Really Works (45mins)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89jS8FRkRCI) * A collection of short videos by de Haas: [Migration 101](https://heindehaas.org/migration-101/) * Harvard’s Michael Sandel convenes a debate on the ethics of national borders with the help of the BBC and a group of participants from over 30 countries: [The Global Philosopher - Should Borders Matter?](https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p03njc35) * Debating Open Borders: Carl vs Caplan (2023) Noah Carl and Bryan Caplan debate the merits of open borders: [Spotify - Open Borders Debate](https://open.spotify.com/episode/4Q8DMpZU4pUdRkA2Zv1hMo) [Apple - Open Borders Debate](https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/debating-open-borders-carl-vs-caplan/id1569224821?i=1000636401848) **Written** * Essential Ideas at a Glance: ***[Infographics, Tables and Summaries on Migration Myths](https://1drv.ms/b/c/adb4f7488b2eef0a/IQDhmc7ksrVEQ5ZHZukMnbGZAWgYg_puO_IQhUu976w6aog?e=NLFebq)*** (prepared for this meetup) * Five recent articles on Australian immigration in *The Conversation*: [5 Common Myths of Australia's Migration System](https://theconversation.com/how-does-australias-migration-system-actually-work-5-common-myths-busted-285237) [Migration is dropping, but public concern is climbing. Why?](https://theconversation.com/migration-is-dropping-but-public-concern-is-climbing-why-285808) [Australia’s migration system lacks something crucial: a plan](https://theconversation.com/australias-migration-system-lacks-something-crucial-a-plan-284959) [Australia was built on migration, but it’s long been a love‑hate relationship](https://theconversation.com/australia-was-built-on-migration-but-its-long-been-a-love-hate-relationship-285240) [What is migration for? National needs vs basic human desire](https://theconversation.com/what-is-migration-for-how-national-needs-wrestle-with-a-basic-human-desire-284958) * Hein de Haas's substack articles: [Hans de Haas’s substack](https://heindehaas.substack.com/) * Immigration Ethics - An Overview (in 999 words!): [Immigration Ethics Summary](https://1000wordphilosophy.com/2026/04/01/immigration-ethics/) * Encyclopedia Entries: [Stanford - Arguments for Open and Closed Borders](https://plato.stanford.edu/entries/immigration/) [Wikipedia – Opposition to Migration Arguments](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opposition_to_immigration) * Reviews of How Migration Really Works: [How Migration Really Works - Review](https://www.e-ir.info/2024/09/15/review-how-migration-really-works/)

The Collage Circle — Create. Reflect. Connect.

A space to slow down, create, and reconnect with yourself. Through the simple act of flipping through magazines, cutting out images and words that resonate, and assembling them into personal collages, we explore our stories, emotions, dreams, and inner worlds. No artistic experience is needed—just curiosity. Together we’ll use collage as a tool for self-expression, reflection, journaling, and healing, creating a mindful break from the noise of our fast-paced, technology-driven lives. We’ll gather around a table with magazines, scissors, paper, and glue, and simply start exploring. Browse through the magazines, cut out any images, words, colours, or textures that catch your attention or resonate with you, then arrange them into a collage that feels meaningful to you. There are no prompts, no right or wrong way to do it, and no artistic experience is needed. This is an inward journey—a chance to slow down, work with your hands, and enjoy a peaceful, creative space away from the constant noise of everyday life. At the end, anyone who would like to share their collage or talk about their experience is warmly invited to, but there’s absolutely no pressure. You’re welcome to simply create, reflect, and enjoy the process.

😄 FREE Drinks, Dining & Dancing at Orient in the Rocks 😄 🍷🍽 👯 🎷

I hope you can join me for dinner and dancing at the Orient. Also note if you come after 8pm the Orient has a cover charge. The Orient Hotel has been a landmark in the historic Rocks district of Sydney since 1844, and it's been a favourite watering hole for generations of Sydneysiders. The street level Public Bar is a relaxed gathering place by day with great Aussie bar food, icy-cold beer and friendly staff. Walk through to the sandstone courtyard and find the perfect spot to take time out with a cool drink. By night, the Orient parties with live bands in the Public Bar every Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday. The stylish Restaurant on the first floor of the hotel is the local's choice for a business lunch or relaxed dinner date, with a menu of modern Australian dishes and international favourites. We'll be having food from the Orients menu so walk in the main entrance and up the staircase to the second floor to the Mrs Jones Terrace. If you like to dance and sing along to the "Classics" then this is the place to come to on a Saturday night. Entry is free before 8pm and $10 after that. N.B Please note this is a FREE event