Conservation Groups Sydney

Fairfax Walk 🚶‍♀️ (North Head)- Human Hearted Sydney 🌻

**Event Summary:** Our monthly social event is going to be a walk around North head on the trail known as Fairfax walk. The plan is to gather there at 11:00 and then do the walk. Interested in meeting new people ? Or refreshing existing friendships with members of our human hearted Sydney community? Or curious about what it means to be [Human Hearted](https://areomagazine.com/2022/05/05/a-human-hearted-modernity/)? Then why not come along and join us. This month we're planning a gentle scenic walk around North Head following the Fairfax trail for our our social event. The total distance shouldn't be more than about three kilometres and we'll be going at a gentle pace. The walk will include some great harbour and ocean views. Our goal is to enjoy the walk and the view, and socialise as we walk. **Connecting to our values:** This event is part of living out Human Hearted Sydney's values of positive social connection and building community in Sydney. So lets meet and connect with those we already know, and those we haven't met before. All are welcome to socialise, meet new people, and build friendships. For more information about human heartedness and its values please see our [website](https://humanhearted.org/) or [skool community](https://www.skool.com/human-hearted-world-6839/about) **Meeting Point:** We'll meet at 11am on Sunday 25th of October at bus stop 209583 ( stop name: Fairfax Walk, North Head Scenic Dr. ) on bus route 161. This bus route goes up to North Head and back from Manly Wharf. After the walk we'll head back into Many and look for a place for lunch. People are welcome to do the walk only, or also join us for lunch.

Australian Issues: Lauran Townsend and Vinay Kolhatkar

Dear members, We have had to switch dates for the meetup. And now we have an additional speaker, Councilor Lauren Townsend! Councillor Townsend was elected to Waverley Council in 2024. She entered politics after almost a decade of pro bono criminal defence work. Councillor Townsend has been a member of the Liberal Party for most of her life until recently. Like many, she realised that the Liberal Party has lost its identity and lost its way and has now joined One Nation. She will talk about why she switched political parties. Vinay Kolhatkar will be giving a short presentation on what it means to have Mono-, Uni-, or Multiculturalism, so we can all make up our own minds as to what’s best for us individually, and for Australia as a whole. There will be plenty of time for attendees to ask questions, make comments and interact. And please purchase a meal and/or drinks. After all this venue has been provided free by Shakespeare’s so that is the least we can do. Vinay is the author of the politically incorrect novels, *A Sharia London* and *The Frankenstein Candidate.* He is also a coauthor of Media Wars: The Battle to Shape Our Minds, and of *Modernizing Aristotle’s Ethics*, which was published by an academic press and sold to university libraries worldwide as a text for philosophy and psychology. His latest novel is Dreams of Orphans, which was released on 30th September. Until August 2026, he was the federal secretary and director of policy for the Libertarian Party and ran in two federal elections as their candidate. He is also an occasional columnist for *Spectator Australia*, where he likes to warn the western world of the incoming threat of neo-Marxism and their alliance with terrorist ideologies. See you then, Craig White

⛰️ Valley of The Dinosaurs - Genowlan Summit, The Grotto & Slot Canyon 🦕🦖 🧗🏻

⚠️ FOR YOUR SAFETY & ENJOYMENT, PLEASE READ DESCRIPTION BELOW FULLY BEFORE YOU CLICK ‘Attend’! ******************************************** 🗓 DATE: Saturday, 31 October 2026. ⏰ MEETING TIME: 9.50am. 🕰️ DEPARTURE TIME: 10am sharp! 🅿️ MEETING POINT: (start & finish) - exact meeting point and GPS co-ordinates📍will be texted to you upon confirmation. Please read further…! ******************************************** 🥾 DISTANCE: 13km return loop. 🥾 GRADE: mostly Moderate/HARD on a steady pace, not snail pace! 💪🏽 Reasonable fitness recommended due to uneven rocky surfaces, steep ups and downs hills, stair climbs, creek crossings, rocks scrambling, climbing over fallen trees, indistinct paths and bush bashing at few overgrown sections. 💪🏽 Tracks expected to be wet, muddy and slippery in parts. ‼️ NOTE: this hike is quite challenging - NOT for beginners, whingers, faint hearted with intense fear of heights or those without proper hiking gears❗️ ******************************************** 📸 WHAT TO EXPECT: ℹ️ Mugii Murum-ban State Conservation Area, dominated by the two pagoda-encrusted mesas of Mount Airly and Genowlan Mountain, is the epitome of Nature's grand design. It contains intricate rock formations, stupendous views, mind-bending intimate spaces, soaring cliffs, rare or endangered plants and animals, and historic Wiradjuri and European archaeological sites. ℹ️ Please READ these articles for further information: 📝 https://share.google/NaDZ1J2P9yHnLaix3 📝 https://lifeonebigadventure.com/2024/08/14/heading-up-up-up-into-the-great-unknown-a-hidden-walk-in-the-mugii-murum-ban-state-conservation-area-central-west-nsw/ ⚠️ IMPORTANT INFORMATION ⚠️ 📝 TERMS & DISCLAIMER: ℹ️ Attending this event is voluntarily at your own risk. Organiser/s accepts no liability of any kind including injuries, accidents, misadventure etc during and after this event. ℹ️ For full disclosure on Public Waiver, please refer to Meetup Terms and Conditions and the front page of this group on ‘About Us’. ✅ Your hosts/organisers are NOT a professional walkers/hikers, trained medical professionals or bush guides. ✅ You must assess your own fitness and ability before participating in this event. ✅ You are responsible for looking after your own health, safety and belongings. ✅ You must adhere and follow the instructions from your hosts/organisers at all times during this event. ✅ You must take personal accountability for your own choices, actions and/or misadventure. ✅ If you’re not keeping up with the group or getting lost during the hike, you’re responsible for finding your own way out. The group DO NOT wait for you! ✅ You must also take care not to put other people at risk. ✅ Keep well back from cliff edges at all times, especially when taking photos. ❎ NO facilities or cafes on the trails, so please come well prepared. ❎ NO smoking of any kind on the walk including during photo stops and lunch break. ✅ Please be mindful and respectful to members and guest/s from diverse backgrounds. This is not a dating event. ******************************************** 🎒WHAT TO BRING: 👕 Comfortable outfit for the weather - hiking gear preferably quick dry/moisture wicking long pants and long shirt due to bush bashing at few overgrown sections. 🚫 NO jeans or cotton t-shirt! 🥾 Waterproof hiking boots or sturdy good grip walking shoes/trail runners highly recommended. 💦 At least 1.8L of WATER (no refills), Hydralyte or sports energy drinks. 🥪 Snacks and packed LUNCH. 🧢 Hat, sunscreen, insect repellent ie: Bushman or Aerogard, Off etc. ⛑ Basic First Aid Kit - BandAids, bandages, antibacterial wipes and pain reliever. 🧥Light raincoat or a poncho just in case of wet weather. 🤩 Great sense of fun and adventure! ℹ️ This is a great article for tips on preparation for Day Walk Skill & Gear. Bushwalk Skills 101: https://www.bushwalk.com/article/8398 💵 GRATUITY/CONTRIBUTION: 💰$10 PRE-PAID per person for this event by cob 29 October. 📲 Please TEXT on 0405038557 before making a payment! ✅ Once payment made, I will TEXT you with other information - exact meeting point etc. ********************************************** 🚗 Drivers and passengers - please offer and organise a carpool with share petrol. NO public transport to/from meeting point. ✍️ Please update on comments section for carpool only. ⛺️ FYI - few of us are camping at Lake Wallace Camping & Recreation Area over the weekend. 🏨 You may stay up in the Blue Mountains for the weekend at Katoomba, Leura, Medlow Bath, Mt Victoria, Wentworth Falls, Blackheath etc. 🏨 Or in Lithgow or Lake Wallace (Wallerawang) for Lithgow Halloween Festival that night, Saturday 31 October. 🎃 https://share.google/eb8EWJwgoNxnRLREZ 🚙 The trailhead is about 1.5 hours drive from Katoomba, Leura and Blackheath, 45 minutes from Lithgow and 35 minutes from Lake Wallace (Wallerawang). ℹ️ Accommodation near Lake Wallace (Wallerawang): 🏨 Black Gold Country Cabins. Main Street, Wallerawang. Contact Rob Cluff – PH: 02 6355 7305, Mobile: 015 237 803 Self contained rooms, 12 double bunks, 2 single beds. Gas Heating. BYO food, linen or sleeping bags. 🏨 Commercial Hotel. Main St., Wallerawang. PH: 02 6355 1089 🏨 Royal Hotel. Main St., Wallerawang. PH: 02 6355 7023 📲 Any questions, please send me a TEXT message before 29 October to avoid any confusion with unnecessary updates on comments section. 🛜 I will have limited phone reception once I arrive at Lake Wallace Campground on Friday, 30 October. 🌲 Let’s explore and enjoy the great outdoors! 🌿 Norra 😎 📱0405038557 (TEXT & PayID only)

Come watch the US mid-term elections live at Cheers Bar!

Join us for a few hours of political drama, surprises and excitement as we watch the results unfold live! 📅 **Wednesday, 4 November** 🕚 **11 am – 5 pm (come and go as you please)** 📍 **Cheers Bar, Basement Level** 561 George Street, Sydney Whether you’re Democrat, Republican, independent or simply curious, everyone is welcome! Come along, enjoy the atmosphere, share a few laughs and experience the fun and excitement of American politics — **whatever your political views!** 🍻 Great company, lively discussion and plenty of election-night drama (in the middle of the day!). **Hope to see you there!** Cheers! 🍻 Craig White (Organiser)

SSP FRIDAY - SUB BASE PLATYPUS & JACARANDAS IN BLOOM

Today we go to Sub Base Platypus then to see the jacarandas in bloom at Milson Park and McDougall Street in Kirribilli. We leave Chambers at 1030 to get the ferry across to Sub Base Platypus at Kirribilli. Lunch will be upstairs at the Kirribilli Hotel, booked for 1pm. 35-37 Broughton Street, opposite Milsons Point train station.

🌿 Slow Dating A Unique Dating Event for Conscious Singles with Maz & Kam

🌿 Slow Dating A Unique Dating Event for Conscious Singles with Maz & Kam **\\TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED PRIOR TO EVENT ON EVENTBRITE\\**** This is done to ensure gender balance, and you will likely be turned away if you show up to the event without a ticket. *✨ Move Beyond Small Talk. Connect Authentically. Playfully. Meaningfully.*** Break free from the swipe-and-scroll dating scene and step into a space where genuine connection takes centre stage. Authentic Connections: Slow Dating offers a 4-hour evening of intentional, playful interactions designed to help you meet like-minded singles while exploring the art of conscious connection. Through guided activities that balance fun and depth, you'll discover what it feels like to show up fully in your interactions and experience the magic of truly being seen and understood. 🤝 A Special Collaboration I'm joining forces with Kam, a practitioner in tantric practices, somatic work and nervous system regulation, to create something neither of us could build alone. Where I bring connection through conversation, vulnerability and authentic relating, Kam brings the body. Together we're creating a space where you don't just talk your way into connection, you feel your way there too. This is conscious dating the way it was always meant to be: present, embodied and real. If you've been to one of my Authentic Connections dating event before, this one will feel noticeably different. Past events focused on connection through conversation. This edition goes further, weaving in somatic and body-based practices, nervous system regulation and mindful touch. Same warmth, same depth, but now with a whole new layer. 🌊 Intention and Flow While you might meet someone special at the event, we encourage you to embrace the evening with openness and curiosity, focusing less on outcomes and more on the journey. Start by setting your intention, whether it's to meet someone aligned with your values, practice authentic connection, or simply enjoy a meaningful evening. Then let go of expectations and allow the evening to unfold naturally. ✨ So, come laugh, connect, and discover where the evening leads! 💫 Why Attend? • Go Beyond Small Talk: Engage in activities designed to foster depth, vulnerability, and meaningful connection. • Meet Like-Minded Singles: Interact with people who share your commitment to personal growth and authentic relationships. • Enjoy a Lighthearted Evening: Experience the perfect balance of fun and depth. • Feel Inspired and Empowered: Leave feeling more confident, connected, and energised, regardless of romantic outcomes. 🔮 What to Expect This isn't a typical speed-dating event. It's a 4-hour journey of guided experiences crafted to help you connect with depth, presence and intention. Here's what's planned: 🤝 Playful Icebreakers: Start the evening with light-hearted activities to ease in and create a welcoming atmosphere. 🎲 Engaging Connection Exercises: Thoughtfully designed games that invite curiosity, build trust, and create moments of genuine connection. 🌿 Somatic and Nervous System Practices: Guided by Kam, gentle body-based practices to help you drop out of your head and into the present moment, so connection can actually land. 🤲 Light Tantric Practices: Short guided exercises that explore presence and attunement. These may include things like synchronised breathing, soft eye contact, and brief hand-to-hand connection. All practices are fully clothed, optional, and clearly guided. You are always in control. 🧘 Mindfulness and Regulation: Tools to settle your nervous system, ease social anxiety, and help you show up as your most grounded self. 💞 Romantic Connections Through Authenticity: Explore the magic of truly seeing and being seen by others. 🍓 Delicious Treats: Light refreshments to keep the energy flowing. 💌 Who Should Attend? This event is for heterosexual singles interested in conscious, meaningful relationships, looking to meet like-minded individuals in a supportive environment, and open to exploring new ways of connecting through curiosity, authenticity and presence. Whether you've attended similar events before or are completely new to this approach, you'll feel comfortable and welcomed. (This event is best suited for those roughly between the ages of 40 and 55.) *📍 Event Details*** 🗓️ Date: 24/10/2026 🕒 Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM 📍 Location: FlourMill Space, Unit 106, 3 Gladstone Street, Newtown 🎟️ Early Bird: $70 until 10th June, then $90 general admission. Early bird spots are limited so book before they're gone. Link for tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/slow-dating-a-unique-event-for-conscious-singles-ages-40-55-tickets-2001867028170?utm_experiment=test_share_listing&aff=ebdsshios&sg=48248bbeffca193f4d24a6d62971a2bc8bfec5fcfeed5c400994db01555d86add2e862d0bb4e48deab6b462b7750d2667c89460bc68d79950392179a3fff93957e2b6480923c0629430f771ffe *⚖️ Refund Policy*** Tickets are non-refundable. When you book, we ask for your full commitment to attending, as balanced numbers are crucial to the success of this event. If you can't make it, please let us know as soon as possible. Tickets are non-transferable. That said, I deeply believe in the value of this experience. If you attend and don't find it worthwhile, I will give you a full refund. Your connection and growth are my top priority. 👥 Meet Your Facilitators Maz Hey, I'm Maz. I came to Australia at 16 with no English and felt deeply out of place for a long time. By 18, life felt heavy enough that I didn't want to be here anymore. After that, I learned how to numb. Games, substances, distractions. I was alive, but not really living. Something eventually shook me awake. I realised how precious life is and that I didn't want to waste it. The path out wasn't clean or easy, but over time I let go of the habits that were keeping me disconnected and rebuilt a real relationship with myself and with life. I studied psychology for over five years and was halfway through my Master's, working as a provisional psychologist, when I chose to step away. I respect that world deeply. I also realised that what helped me most, and what many people need, are lived, relational spaces where honesty and presence are practised, not just talked about. These workshops are my way of creating those spaces. From numbness to aliveness. From disconnection to real contact. If this speaks to you, I'd be glad to hold the space with you. Kam Hey, I’m Kam. For a long time, I lived a lot in my head — analysing, overthinking, trying to get things “right”, especially when it came to relationships. I often felt disconnected from myself and unsure of how to fully express what I actually felt or needed. My work originally started in coaching and facilitation, helping people find their voice and navigate work and relationships with more clarity and confidence. But over time I realised that real connection doesn’t come from thinking more — it comes from feeling safe in your body, being present, and letting yourself be seen as you are. That led me into somatic work, nervous system regulation and tantric-inspired practices, as well as training in massage and embodied work. It’s been a big part of my own journey — learning to soften, to trust myself, and to experience connection in a way that feels real rather than performative. Dating, especially in today’s swipe culture, can feel disconnected, surface-level, and sometimes exhausting. I’m passionate about creating spaces where we can slow down, drop the masks a little, and meet each other more honestly — without pressure, without pretending. This space is an invitation to do that, together. *💬 What Past Participants Are Saying*** "I've done speed dating before and left feeling exhausted and a bit hollow. This was the complete opposite. Something about the pace and the way it was structured made everything feel real." "I walked in nervous, genuinely considering leaving. Within the first twenty minutes that completely melted away. I don't know how he does it but the room just opens up." "I've never had conversations like that with strangers, let alone on a dating night. We were actually talking about things that mattered. It felt nothing like dating and everything like connection." "Every interaction felt fresh. There was always something new to explore with each person, which never happens at regular speed dating. You actually leave knowing people, not just names." 📩 Have Questions? 📧 Email: [Masoud.katiraei1@gmail.com](mailto:Masoud.katiraei1@gmail.com) 📞 Phone: 0451 917 187 📱 Instagram: @Mazkatira 📘 Facebook: @masoud katiraei

🚗 WEEKEND GETAWAY - VALLEY OF THE DINOSAURS & LITHGOW ⛰️🦕🦖🏕️🏨 🧗‍♂️🎃👻

📍 LOCATION: 🏕 Lake Wallace Camping Area 🏕️ Barton Ave, Wallerawang NSW 2845 🚗 Wallerawang village centre is less than five minutes drive to/from the campground for shops, cafes, pubs, petrol station etc. https://www.nsw.gov.au/visiting-and-exploring-nsw/locations-and-attractions/lake-wallace 🚻 FACILITIES: ⛺️ Camp beside your vehicle, picnic area, tap water, toilet block with flushing toilets and hot showers within walking distance to/from the campsite, garbage bins, BYO water sports and fishing equipments, walking and bike trails. ❎ NO open fires are permitted at Lake Wallace. Refer photo no. 3 and the website. 🛜 Phone reception generally okay but can be a bit patchy at few areas at the campground area. 🚙 The campground is accessible by regular 2WD and campervan. ******************************************** 🎒WHAT TO BRING 🎒 ⛺️ Campers - tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad/air mattress, food, snacks, drinking and washing water, portable stove, butane gas, utensils, plates, mugs, pots and pans, fold-up table, chairs, gazebo or a tarp for shelter/cooking station, washing liquid, wash basin, towel, personal shower items, basic First Aid kit, torch or headlight (preferred), tent light, camp light, charger/power bank, jacket and warm clothes, beanie, thermals, blanket etc (cooler temperature at night), all creature comfort that can fit in your car and kitchen sink! 🚙 🚗 🛒 💵 GRATUITY/CONTRIBUTION: $10 per person PRE-PAID (organiser fee only for campers/non campers) for research and preparation for this exciting event. Non refundable if you cancel or No Show. 📲 Pre-paid to my PayID: 0405038557 by cob Friday, 23rd October. Ref: (your Meetup name) & Lake Wallace camping. 💬 Once payment received, I’ll add you to group WhatsApp for further details - exact campsite location, optional day walks, Halloween night etc. ❗️NOTE - day trip on Saturday to Valley of The Dinosaurs is not included (to be paid separately PRE-PAID) if you like to come along. ******************************************** 🏕️ This camping event is suitable for newbies or beginners and walkers alike at any level with no experience required. ✅ If you have not been camping before, this is a good place to try it out with flushing toilets and hot shower within walking distance from the camping area. 🏨 Non campers may also join us for this event. You need to check online for accommodation at nearby towns of Wallerawang, Lisdale, Rydal or Katoomba, Blackheath, or Lithgow etc. ℹ️ Accommodation near Lake Wallace: 🏨 Black Gold Country Cabins. Main Street, Wallerawang. Contact Rob Cluff – PH: 02 6355 7305, Mobile: 015 237 803 Self contained rooms, 12 double bunks, 2 single beds. Gas Heating. BYO food, linen or sleeping bags. 🏨 Commercial Hotel. Main St., Wallerawang. PH: 02 6355 1089 🏨 Royal Hotel. Main St., Wallerawang. PH: 02 6355 7023 📝 NOTE - you may come and leave at anytime. You may also do as much or as little by relaxing on the lake if you wish. ⛺️ FYI - I’m planning to arrive at the campground on Friday afternoon, 30th October to get the campsite for the group. 📸 Things to do in Wallerawang & Lithgow: https://lithgow-tourism.com/wang.htm https://southerncrossmotelgroup.com.au/news/lithgow/ ⚠️ IMPORTANT INFORMATION ⚠️ 📝 TERMS & DISCLAIMER: ℹ️ Attending this event is voluntarily at your own risk. Organiser/s accepts no liability of any kind including injuries, accidents, misadventure etc during and after this event. ℹ️ For full disclosure on Public Waiver, please refer to Meetup Terms and Conditions and the front page of this group on ‘About Us’. ✅ You are responsible for looking after your own health, safety and belongings. ✅ You must take personal accountability for your own choices, actions and/or misadventure. ✅ You must also take care not to put other people at risk. ✅ If you do not wish to be photographed (randomly or group photos), please DO NOT join this event! ✅ Please be mindful and respectful to members & guest/s from diverse background. This is not a dating event. ******************************************** 💬 I will setup WhatsApp group chat for this event for further information on Saturday afternoon, 24th October - exact campsite location (unnumbered on first come first served), optional day walks, sunset walk, Halloween night in Lithgow etc. ℹ️ OPTIONAL: 🎃 The Iconic Lithgow Halloween Celebration Returns In 2026. https://www.lithgowhalloween.com/ 📲 In the meantime, if you have any questions, please send me a TEXT message instead to avoid any confusion. 🌿 Let’s explore and enjoy the great outdoors! 🎃 Norra 😎 📱0405038557 (TEXT & PayID only)

Heritage Braai at Manly dam - Saturday 7 November

GREAT AUSSIE BIRD COUNT MANLY

4 DAY BIRD Photography Retreat- Booking with Link Below

**Join us for a 4 day and 3 night birding workshop while exploring some of the south coast's most beautiful locations.** We will cover locations and bird species in both coastal, mountainous and wetland areas where we have the potential to see and photograph over 200 species of birdlife in natural habitat. Bird Photography poses different approaches depending on bird species and the seasons and every time you venture out, weather and nature will influence each experience.This ensures Bird Photography is always a unique opportunity to observe wildlife at its best, make connections with nature and capture some amazing imagery. **BOOK** $660 deposit [https://theapertureclub.com.au/bird-photography-4-day-workshop-berry/](https://theapertureclub.com.au/bird-photography-4-day-workshop-berry/) **YOU WILL LEARN** * Planning for the shoot * using your equipment * camera settings * lighting and composition * how and where to focus * top tips when in the field * the best approach to edit * thinking ethically * Fast shutter speeds **DAILY PROGRAM:** Opportunity to shoot 2 late afternoons and 2 early morning locations. We will also be shooting later in the days at a mountain refuge with a guided tour from one of our Birding Australia experts on their private property. This is incorporated with some lectures and review work as well. There is some time to explore the Berry township but consider an extra night if you need a chill out moment. Note schedule can be altered depending on everyone’s needs etc. and is suitable for all levels of photographic skills. This workshop is suitable for all skill levels in photography but essential to understand your camera controls. This workshop is not suitable for absolute beginners.

Africultures Festival

Stoics in the park: NEW LOCATION- Sydney Park

Unlike other philosophies, Stoicism was named after a place not a person, making it accessible to ALL people. In ancient greco-roman times people would meet at the Stoa, where they would discuss Stoic Philosophy. We can meet in the park just as the stoic sages 1000s of years ago. Join us to read through and discuss Meditations by Marcus Aurelius. Google books has a FREE PDF you can download. No need to do any homework, we will read together and discuss. Am looking forward to hearing your thoughts. Event fee (optional) is $2, this goes to admin costs of running the group, please consider I am from Wollongong and wanted to keep this group when original organiser stepped down. I have significant travel expenses and am generally organising creative events that take resources. A gratuity would be a wonderful way to make me feel appreciated. Pay on the day, payID 0416147804, PayPal: paypal.me/jonnikaren or private message for direct deposit details. In lieu of event fee, you can buy me a coffee :)