Community Groups Melbourne

The Life of the Spirit

🌿 Take a gentle pause this month as we connect, reflect and explore: **"The Life of the Spirit"**. **SoulTime** offers a welcoming space for reflection, meaningful conversation and connection in a peaceful setting overlooking nature. Sessions include reading a selection of short quotations from diverse cultures, faiths, philosophies and perspectives, followed by open group discussion around uplifting themes relevant to everyday life. This month, we'll explore the spiritual dimension of our existence. What do we mean when we speak of the human soul or spirit? Is there more to who we are than our physical selves? How are we connected to something greater than ourselves, and how might we nurture this unseen, immaterial part of our being? Together, we'll reflect on the nature of the soul, its eternal qualities and the idea that our spiritual existence continues beyond the life of the body. We'll also consider what it means to live a spiritual life here and now, and how qualities such as love, kindness, peace and compassion can find expression through the way we live. 🌱 To help make SoulTime accessible for families, we are continuing our **SoulTime Kids** program! This is a parallel session for primary-aged children that runs alongside the grown-up discussion, exploring a complementary theme (this month: "***More Than Meets the Eye***") through their own age-appropriate, creative, reflective and fun activities. Children will explore the special parts of ourselves that we can't see, and the idea that there is more to who we are than what meets the eye. The kids' session is facilitated by a qualified school teacher or youth worker. **SoulTime** is open to everyone regardless of background, beliefs or life stage. Light refreshments will be served following the group discussion. We hope you can join us! ☕✨

November Book Club

Welcome to our November gathering of Melbourne Women's Big Ideas Book Club! If you love discovering great books and discussing the ideas they spark, we'd love to have you join us. This is a relaxed monthly lunch where every member brings along a book they've recently enjoyed. There are no set reads and no genre restrictions—just thoughtful books and interesting women. Each member has the opportunity to share what they've been reading, what resonated, what challenged them, or what fell short. From there, the conversation naturally evolves as we explore new perspectives, exchange recommendations, and connect through a shared love of reading. Whether you're a regular attendee or joining us for the first time, you'll find a welcoming group of curious, intelligent women who enjoy meaningful conversation and genuine connection. I can't wait to hear what you've been reading this month.

December Book Club

Welcome to our December gathering of Melbourne Women's Big Ideas Book Club! If you love discovering great books and discussing the ideas they spark, we'd love to have you join us. This is a relaxed monthly lunch where every member brings along a book they've recently enjoyed. There are no set reads and no genre restrictions—just thoughtful books and interesting women. Each member has the opportunity to share what they've been reading, what resonated, what challenged them, or what fell short. From there, the conversation naturally evolves as we explore new perspectives, exchange recommendations, and connect through a shared love of reading. Whether you're a regular attendee or joining us for the first time, you'll find a welcoming group of curious, intelligent women who enjoy meaningful conversation and genuine connection. I can't wait to hear what you've been reading this month.

Harambee: Collective Stories of Belonging

Looking for something fun and engaging to do in Melbourne? Come along to Harambee on Sunday 15 November! Hosted by Kwabo Events in collaboration with Ausdance Victoria, Harambee brings together talented artists from different cultural backgrounds to share their stories through music, dance, art and performance. Explore interactive art exhibitions, enjoy live performances, get involved in creative activities and share stories over food. There'll also be music, a DJ and opportunities to meet some amazing people from Melbourne's creative community. Whether you're into art and music, keen to meet new people or just looking for a good day out, everyone is welcome! **Sunday 15 November 2026** 🕛Matinee Session: 10:30 am - 2:30 pm 🕒Afternoon Session: 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm 📍 Balam Balam, Brunswick 🎟️ Find out more and grab your tickets here: [https://www.trybooking.com/au/event/1663192](https://www.trybooking.com/au/event/1663192) Bring a friend, come curious, and we hope to see you there! ❤️

Community Camp (Seymour VIC | 1.5 Hours from Melbourne CBD)

**Registration is required at below link:** **Tickets: $55** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-nov-2026-edition-or-seymour-vic-or-1-5-hours-from-melbourne-cbd Oot & Aboot’s Community Camp is a relaxed, low-pressure overnight camping experience designed to bring LGBTQIA+ people and allies together in nature. This is our 7th camping event, and we’re intentionally keeping it simple. There’s no packed schedule or expectations — just space to slow down, connect, and enjoy the outdoors in good company. Across one night, you can look forward to: * A self-paced 2 hour hike along the Gawarn Baring Walking Trail (Saturday morning, optional) * A welcoming and inclusive camp environment * Lawn and board games * Swimming, if you are up for a cold plunge * A relaxed campfire hangout, if conditions allow * Plenty of unstructured community time to talk, laugh, and connect * A simple self-serve breakfast on Sunday morning This is an **adults-only (18+)** event with a maximum of **14 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. New: pre-event WhatsApp group For this event, we're trialling an opt-in WhatsApp group for confirmed ticket holders. It's a relaxed space to say hi, ask questions, or get to know a few faces before the day — especially handy if you're coming solo and want a bit of a heads-up on who else will be there. Joining is completely optional — your phone number may be visible to other members — and the group will be deleted 3 days after the event. The campsite is located in Seymour, VIC, approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD. For safety and privacy reasons, the exact location will be provided only to confirmed ticket holders and can be found on the ticket sent via email after payment. Please remember to check your junk or spam folder if you don’t see it in your inbox. Know before you go: * Participants should bring their own camping gear (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, cooking stove, utensils and drinks (except breakfast). Please reach out if you don't have any or missing some of the camping gear, we may have a solution for you * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accommodation of specific dietary or allergy requirements. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether this event is right for you. Please ensure your own needs are met by bringing food that suits your requirements * Our events take place in outdoor environments across various locations in Victoria, which may involve uneven ground and bush walking. Some venues may not meet all accessibility needs. As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accessibility assistance. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether a specific event is right for you. If you feel you may need support on the day, we encourage you to bring a carer or support person * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance, though registered assistance animals are welcome Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Powered and grassed/gravelled sites * Water taps throughout the park * Toilets and showers * Campfire is allowed when conditions are suitable Oot & Aboot events are grounded in respect, inclusion, and care. We aim to create spaces where LGBTQIA+ people and allies feel safe, welcome, and supported. If you’re looking for a gentle way to reconnect with nature and community, we’d love to have you join us. ## Know before you go * Who is this event for? This event is for LGBTQIA+ adults and allies (18+). It’s designed to be welcoming, inclusive, and low-pressure. * Do I need camping experience? No. This is a relaxed community camp. If you can set up basic camping gear, you’ll be just fine. * What does my ticket include? Your ticket covers campsite fees, access to facilities, lawn and board games, casual group walks, and a simple shared breakfast on Sunday morning. * What food is provided? A simple self-serve breakfast (bread, spreads, fruit, tea & coffee) is included. Please bring your own food and drinks for all other meals. * Is this event accessible for people with mobility needs? Our events take place in outdoor environments across various locations in Victoria, which may involve uneven ground and bush walking. Some venues may not meet all accessibility needs. As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accessibility assistance. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether a specific event is right for you. If you feel you may need support on the day, we encourage you to bring a carer or support person. * Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a 100% volunteer-run charity, we are not able to guarantee accommodation of specific dietary or allergy requirements. We encourage you to contact us in advance at [hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au](mailto:hello@ootandabootoutdoors.org.au) to discuss whether this event is right for you. Please ensure your own needs are met by bringing food that suits your requirements." * Can I bring alcohol? Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. * Are pets allowed? Unfortunately we're unable to accommodate pets, though registered assistance animals are welcome. * Will I get the exact location after booking? Yes. Exact campsite location will be shared with confirmed ticket holders for safety and privacy. * What should I bring? Bring your own camping gear, food, cooking stove, utensil, and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event. Please email or text us if you would like to borrow some camping gear. We might be able to arrange for you.

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.

Monthly Social in the Northern Suburbs - Welcome to Thornbury

Our monthly Northern social is changing time and location to Welcome To Thornbury. It is considered a local icon with a vibrant modern feel. It is has plenty of fun atmosphere combined with some street parking and it is also close to public transort, so come along and enjoy it with us. Do you live in the Northern or perhaps even the Western suburbs? Are interested in catching-up with like minded people? Come along for dinner and meet some friendly people. Our group is informal and open to all. We pay for own food and drinks individually and there is no charge for the organisation of the events. It is a great opportunity to meet others with an emphasis on fun and supporting each other. So whether you choose to come at the start for dinner or later on for drinks, we hope to see you. If something comes up and you can no longer make it, then you can easy change your RSVP to not going. I am looking forward to catching up with those who can make it, Chris

Social – Welcome to new members & catch up for regulars - City

Never been to one of our meet-ups before? Been a member for a while or just joined? Either way this is the social for you! Once a month we hold a special meet-up to welcome in new members. Regulars are encouraged to attend and help new members have a fun night out! Our monthly “newbie” social is an opportunity to learn about our groups, events held and resources to help members. More importantly it is an opportunity to meet others going through separation & divorce in a safe and friendly environment. We can all learn from each other, but the primary aim of the socials is to enjoy ourselves! Our socials are hosted by members of the Divorce Support & Social Group and the Melbourne Divorce Support Group. We pay for own food and drinks individually. On Wednesday nights the Royal Melbourne has $20 pizza and pasta specials. Great food and great company. We hope to see you!

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

Ladies Brunch at Mazi Brighton

Kudos 2 Friends . Expand Your Social Circle Riverside Walk? (Docklands)

**\-\-\- \*New\* Follow Us & Get Update On Instagram \-\-\-** [www.instagram.com/kudos2friends](http://www.instagram.com/kudos2friends) We will meet at the starting point. Then walk towards Docklands to one of the popular coffee places. We will stop for a coffee and finish off at the Southern Cross Station. Dress for outdoor walk. Come along & simply say, "Hi, it's my first time joining the group event." or ask the organiser to introduce you. If you enjoy the conversations, take the imitative to invite others to hang out over a bite/ drink after. **\-\-\-** **Coming with a +1 guest** **\-\-\-** You are welcome to come along with a guest to join the walk. Please register a +1 guest at RSVP. **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30 mins in advance. We will wait up to 15 mins before heading off. We won't be able to keep track of messages once we start. **\-\-\- RSVP / Change of Plan \-\-\-** Change of plan or decide not to attend is absolutely okay. Please do update your RSVP to "NO", so others can have the opportunity to attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos 2 Friends is a Melbourne based community created for individuals who are looking to expand their social circle and form long term friendship overtime. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, hiking, sporting, chilling, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **\-\-\- Heylo App \-\-\-** We use Heylo App for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please download the Heylo app from the App store and let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the Heylo Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * take advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

BRUNCH + African Violet Show - Early Morn African Violet Group