Conservation Volunteering Melbourne

Community Conversations: Nurturing the Spiritual Being

**Nurturing the Spiritual Being: A Mindful Watercolour Experience** With the demands of everyday life, how often do we pause to nurture the deepest part of ourselves, our spiritual nature? Our thoughts and emotions influence how we feel, the choices we make, and how we respond to stress and anxiety. Yet are they the deepest reality of who we are? Join us for an immersive experience that invites you to slow down, reconnect with your inner self, and explore where lasting happiness comes from. Through the simple practice of mindful watercolour, and meaningful conversation, we'll cultivate a sense of calm and deeper connection with ourselves, others, or the Divine. Community Conversations provides a warm and inclusive space where people from all backgrounds and beliefs are welcome. Each session includes a short presentation, shared conversation and light refreshments. No previous experience with watercolour or mindfulness is needed, just a willingness to pause and reflect. It is a free community event, and all are welcome and encouraged to attend. We hope you can be a part of it!

Eco-Impact Tribe:The Conscious Traveller

# **The Conscious Traveller** ### **Small Choices for a More Sustainable Trip** Inspired by a recent trip where I found myself wishing I had more practical tools to make more conscious choices while travelling, I thought: let’s figure it out together. Bring your **tips, experiences and questions**, plus the things you’d love to see changed when it comes to travelling more sustainably. From what we pack to hotels freebies , eating out, shopping and everyday holiday choices, let’s share ideas and learn from each other. **The goal? To leave feeling a little more equipped for our next, more conscious trip.** 📍Meeting Point: **Three Bags Full, 60 Nicholson St, Abbotsford VIC 3067** ☕ Plan for the afternoon * **1:15 PM** — Arrival, coffee & casual introductions * **1:45 PM** — We gently dive into the conversation and fabric exploration * **2:45 PM** — Wrap up and finish (café close / table release) To support the venue, we kindly ask that you purchase a coffee and/or snack during the event. Please note that the venue does not offer split bills, so **cash is preferred**. \* 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. **Whether you’re interested in sustainability, conscious living, or simply learning something new, you’re warmly welcome.**

🏕️Grampians Camping + Hiking

[👉🏻 GET YOUR TICKET (CLICK HERE) 👈🏻](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1995398850677?aff=oddtdtcreator) [EVENT DETAILS HERE](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1blkChDDC24lwGUHKiQ_leB3uSX7SNmAs/view)

Growth Minded Book Lovers: Coffee and Conversation

Like books, ideas and conversations that make you think? This is a relaxed afternoon catch up for people who are into personal growth. Psychology, personal development, business, finance, mindset, human behaviour - whatever you've been reading, listening to or turning over lately. It isn't a round of book reviews. It's more: here's what I took from it, here's the bit I disagreed with, here's what happened when I tried it. You're welcome to: * bring a book you loved, or none at all * talk about an idea you're still chewing on * listen more than you speak Bring your opinions, and leave the judgement at home. Somewhere in there you'll get a bit of practice at saying what you think, asking better questions and following someone else's thinking. That tends to be what happens in a good conversation, rather than anything you need to prepare for. **Where to meet** At the "Bunyip of Berkeley's Creek" sculpture, to the right-hand side of the library entrance. See the photos for the exact spot. We wait about 10 minutes here, so please arrive on time. **How the afternoon runs** We start at 1:30pm, so have lunch before you come. BYO coffee if you'd like one. 1:30pm — meet and greet 1:45pm — we can sit on the grass or find a spot inside the library and split into smaller groups depending on numbers. Talk about your book.... What stood out to you, what you tried, what worked, what didn't, and what you'll try next. The more real examples, the better the conversation. 3:00pm - wrap up. There are cafés nearby, so if you feel like coffee or a snack afterwards with the people you've met, you're welcome to head off together. Anything you order is your own. **Your part is simple** Read this description before you come, arrive on time, and stay with the group. This one's a free meetup, open to everyone. Your host is Sabina, a volunteer who's also there to enjoy the afternoon. HOST RESOURCES: [https://mastercoaches.net/good-conversation-club-questions.pdf](https://mastercoaches.net/good-conversation-club-questions.pdf)

HiKE🥾retreat - GOLFIELDS JOURNEY: A Camino-Style🗺️Adventure +🌅Sunset🛶Kayaks

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → GOLDFIELDS**🏙️ * 📅 **SAT-SUN** 25-26 **SEP, 2-DAY TRIP ☀️** * **🌄 HiKE Retreat – Goldfields Journey** **✨ A Camino-Style Walk of Stillness, Connection & Adventure ✨** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **2 Days \| 55 km \| Small Group \(7 walkers\) \| Camino\-Style Supported Experience** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿 **Step into history, nature, and soul** on this Camino-inspired retreat walk through Victoria’s Goldfields. Over two unforgettable days, we’ll journey 55 km along the scenic Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail, where rolling **farmland, historic bridges, wildlife**, and **creative country** towns set the stage for reflection, connection, and discovery. ✨ This is more than a **hike.** It’s a **mindful** adventure — a chance to walk at a soulful pace, share stories, enjoy silences, and reconnect with nature and self. Supported every step of the way by our minivan, we’ll travel light and carefree, focusing only on the path ahead. 🌙 Evenings bring cozy **country stays,** hearty local **meals**, warm **accommodation**, **kangaroo** greetings, and shared circles beneath the stars. Our retreat closes with a golden-hour **sunset kayaking experience** — a perfect symbol of flow, stillness, and arrival. 💫 *Come walk with us. Slow down. Breathe deeply. And let this journey become your story.* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🎒 What’s Included: **🌟 All-Inclusive Package - Just $249!** ✅Round-trip transport in a comfy **Mercedes minivan** 🚐 ✅ 1-night **accommodation** **in cozy country house** (shared rooms) 🛏 ✅ Guided **55 km retreat hike (2 days)** + minivan support (for luggage) 🥾 ✅ Gourmet **Soup** 🍵 + Fresh **Sandwich** Selection 🍞 ✅ Sunset **kayaking** experience + gears 🌊 ✅ Morning **coffee & tea** + unlimited snacks, soft drinks ☕ ✅ Guided **Meditation** in nature 🧘🏞️ ✅ Reflection **cards**, pilgrim passport + stamps ✅ **Fruit** platter 🍉 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## Itinerary ### 🕊️ Day 1 – Ballarat → Linton (29 km) * 06:30 – Meet in Melbourne (**St Paul’s Cathedral**, Flinders St) * 07:30 – Gentle **break** stop ☕ * 09:00 – Arrival: **Morning coffee/tea** (provided, unlimited) 🍵 * 09:15 – Begin **Walk:** silent first steps through gold rush landscapes 🚶‍♀️ * 11:00 – Mindful pause: **Meditation** & grounding in nature 🍃 * 13:00 – Nourishing **Lunch**: **gourmet soup** 🥣 + fresh **sandwich** 🥗 * 14:00 – Continue **walk**: through peaceful goldfields scenery✨ * 16:00 – Wildlife **connection** 🌳 * 17:00 – Arrive in Linton – check in cozy **country house** 🏡 * 18:00 – **Group dinner** at local restaurant 🍽️ * 20:00 – **Evening circle** + starry sky reflections 🌌+ peaceful music ### **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** ## 🌳 Day 2 – Linton → Skipton (26 km) * 07:30 – **Breakfast**🍞 at local café ☕ * 08:30 – **Begin walk** – couples walk & mindful silence 🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ * 11:00 – Reflection stop: ✍️ journaling + **meditation** ✨ * 13:00 – Picnic lunch by creek 🧺 + **fruit platter** 🍇 * 16:00 – **Arrive** in Skipton – closing ritual at old station 🙏 * 17:00 – Sunset 🌅 **kayaking** – golden hour bliss 🛶 * 18:00 - **Platypuses** viewing time 🌳 * 18:30 – Celebration **time** together 🥂 * 19:30 – Depart back to Melbourne, full of beautiful memories 🌅 📍 **Drop-off:** Hammer Hall, Melbourne 🚐 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ## 🌟 Trip Highlights 🥾 **Guided 55 km Camino-style walk** – Ballarat to Skipton Rail Trail 🍲 **Gourmet soup + sandwich + unlimited snacks/drinks (inc.)** 🛏 **1 night in cozy country accommodation** (shared rooms) 🥘 **Group dinners** celebrating local food & flavour 🚌 **Full Mercedes minivan support** for luggage + rest stops 🍉 Fruit **platter** 🧘 **Mindful practices** – meditation, journaling, reflection cards 🌅 **Sunset kayaking** with all gear provided 🌌 **Evening circles** under starry skies 📖 **Pilgrim passports & stamps** at trail towns \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **RSVP to secure your spot. Please make a** 💳 **Transfer $249** no later than a **week** before the trip: **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** HR 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🧭 What to Bring** * Lightweight backpack (20L) * Comfortable walking shoes & socks 🥾 * Weather-appropriate layers + rain gear * Water bottles or hydration system * Journal & pen (optional for reflections) ✍️ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **✨ *Limited to 7 spots only.*** **📩 DM for details or to reserve your place -** let me know your dietary requirements \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** * The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property on this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Advanced Volleyball Session (Men’s Net)

There will be a cap of 18 players, allowing 3 teams of 6. Games will be played to 15 points. These games are intended to be played at an intermediate to advanced level. $8 per person if you wouldn't mind! 😁🙏 Account name: Tam Nguyen BSB: 067873 Account number: 12770014 Or PayID: 0481463419 _Make sure to attach YOUR name!_ RSVP opens each Friday at 10:00pm Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play. Participants attend and play at their own risk. We are not liable for any injury, loss, or damage that may occur during the session. Have fun, be respectful, and keep a positive attitude!

Details yet to be confirmed- Platypus Dawn Patrol and Westerfolds Park Circuit

Spectacular WILSONS PROM : Day trip: Hike+ 🇫🇷 Lunch, Bay, Wildlife, Meditation

* 🌏 **MELBOURNE → WILSON PROMONTRY** 🏙️ * 📅 **SAT 12 SEP** 🦘 * 🌊**A day away. A world of wonder.**🌄 * **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** Join us for a refreshing day at **Wilsons Promontory**, where granite mountains meet beautiful bays, peaceful bushland and wide-open ocean views. We’ll explore on an **easy-paced, guided 9 km hike**, taking time to enjoy the scenery, chat and capture beautiful moments along the way. Pause, breathe deeply and settle into a **guided meditation surrounded by nature** — no experience needed, just a little space to slow down. After our walk, we’ll gather for a **homemade French vegetarian lunch featuring ratatouille**, with tea, coffee, snacks and refreshments. Good food tastes even better outdoors! The afternoon brings **beautiful beaches and bays**, **panoramic lookouts** and **wildlife spotting**, with opportunities to see wombats, kangaroos and native birds. Come solo or bring a friend and enjoy easygoing company, laughter and a warm welcome, with comfortable return transport in our **Mercedes minivan** and hiking gear provided. A day to explore, share good food and return to the city feeling refreshed. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🎒 **All-Inclusive — Just $99!** ✔️ Guided 9 km **hike** + all gear 🥾 ✔️ Unlimited snacks & refreshments 🥤 ✔️ Coffee & tea throughout the day ☕ ✔️ French **Homemade Ratatouille (Veg.)** 🍏 ✔️ **Meditation** & relaxation session + guru✨ ✔️ Return transport in a comfy **Mercedes minivan** 🚐 **\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-** **📍 Your Adventure Itinerary** 📍 **6:30 AM** – Pick-up from **St Paul’s Cathedral, Flinders Street** 🍉 **7:00 AM** — Short **break** to stretch and refresh 🥐 **9:00 AM** – Breakfast stop at a **local café** ☕ **10:00 AM** – Arrival + **morning coffee, tea & snacks** (provided) 🥾 **10:15 AM** – Easy **Hiking adventure** (9 km, 190m elevation) ✨ **12:00 PM** – **Meditation** and grounding in nature + guru 🍲 **13:00** — **Homemade Ratatouille** · Snacks · Tea · Coffee · Soft drinks 🌊 **2:00 PM** – Explore the stunning **Bay** 🔭 **3:00 PM** – Take in **breathtaking lookout views** 🦘 **3:30 PM** – Visit a **wildlife reserve** (spot local animals!) 🍕 **4:30 PM** – Enjoy a **scenic drive** 🚐 **7:00 PM** – Return to Melbourne (**drop-off at Hamer Hall**) * \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ### **🎒 What to Bring** ✅ **BYO lunch** 🥪 (if preferred) ✅ **Warm, wind & water resistant clothing** 🧥 ✅ **Hiking shoes** (available for free if needed) 🥾 ✅ **Long sleeves, long pants, hat** 🧢 ✅ **A positive attitude & an adventurous spirit!** 😃 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **💰 How to Book?** Secure your spot with a **$99 transfer** **Please note:** An RSVP alone does not secure your spot — only a transfer confirms your place on the trip. Thanks for understanding! 🔹 **PayID:** 0414 661 458 🔹 **Bank Transfer:** **NAME:** KARAPETIAN G **BSB:** 013233 **ACCOUNT:** 226325836 **Ref:** WP 🌟 **Limited spots available—RSVP now!** S*pots are only confirmed once payment is received !!!* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ❗️**Please Note:** **Payments are only credited or refunded if the event is canceled or rescheduled by the organizer.** In all other circumstances, payments are **non-refundable and non-transferable**. ❗️Thank you for understanding and supporting the planning involved in creating these experiences! 🌿 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Feel free to ask if you have any questions!** 😊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📩 **Got questions? DM me anytime!** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🌿✨ Don’t miss this **epic day of adventure, nature, and fun!** ✨🌊 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Visit our sources: https://www.facebook.com/groups/812911556223655/?ref=share Instagram: nogeography.hike.kayak https://www.meetup.com/en-AU/no-geography-hike-and-kayak/ * ✨ **Forest Paths. Ocean Air. A Little French Flair.** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **LIABILITY WAIVER** The organizer of this group cannot accept any liability for any loss, damage, injury, or accident to participants or their property on this event. By participating in this event, you're taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. By joining this event you agree to these terms. ## **COVID-19 Safety Measures** * The event host is instituting the above safety measures for this event. * Please do not attend if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, or sore throat. * If you have recently tested positive for COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone who has, we kindly ask that you refrain from attending. * Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in keeping our community safe!

Wings & Wild Things of Banyule: Wildlife & Bird Photography

**WEATHER DEPENDENCY & UPDATES** This event is strictly weather dependent. Please check the event page on **Friday 18/9** for a final update on conditions and confirmation. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Join us for a wildlife and bird photography session at Banyule Flats Reserve, a 46.47-hectare haven famous for inspiring Heidelberg School artists. Home to over 153 bird species alongside kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and wallabies, it’s an ideal spot to capture the vibrant nature along the Yarra River and Banyule Swamp. **Schedule** 8.30am - Meet at [Banyule Flats Reserve Car Park ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SpoVRfwEASm13Jd26)(off Somerset Drive, Viewbank) [googlemap link ](https://maps.app.goo.gl/SpoVRfwEASm13Jd26) (TBC the trail route) 11.30am - Meet for Brunch - location TBC 12.30pm - Meetup ends **What to Bring:** * Your camera and lens (a telephoto lens is highly recommended, and a wider lens can be useful for habitat shots) * Tripod (optional but can be helpful for stability, especially with longer lenses) * Comfortable and quiet walking shoes suitable for varied terrain * Water and snacks * Appropriate clothing for the weather and potentially muddy conditions * Your respect for nature and a keen eye for detail! Target Birds (we may or may not find): **Ducks & Grebes:** Pacific Black Duck, Chestnut Teal, Pink-eared Duck, Musk Duck, and Hoary-headed / Australasian Grebes. **Kingfishers:** Sacred Kingfisher and Azure Kingfisher **Parrots & Honeyeaters:** Red-rumped Parrot, Australian King-Parrot, Eastern & Crimson Rosellas, Rainbow & Musk Lorikeets, Gang-gang Cockatoo. **Important Notes:** * We will prioritise the well-being of all wildlife and maintain a respectful distance at all times. * Please be mindful of noise and movement to avoid disturbing potential subjects. By signing up and attending this event, you and your guest agree to the above disclosures and the [MEETUP GUIDELINES](https://docs.google.com/document/d/11Tlklt2nqT-B8RnDaxvmZv8vsGXy3w8rVpiArNf_-f8/edit?tab=t.0) Annie and Andrew

Monthly South Melbourne Beach Patrol beach clean-up

Join us for one hour of beach cleaning, socialising, and generally being a good person. It's a perfect time to head down to clean up the beaches that you love. Meeting Spot: Kerferd Rd Pier When: Every third Saturday, 9am - 10am Please arrive 850am for a 9am start! Bags provided. Please bring your own gloves if you like. Feel free to invite neighbours/family/friends/colleagues, etc to join in and lend a hand as we tidy up our beaches and bay!! 3205 Beach Patrol is a group that meets for One Hour each month to clear rubbish from South Melbourne Beach. Totally voluntary, totally optional, totally local. We meet every THIRD Saturday, same place, same time. Beach Patrol is a chain of volunteer community groups each defined by suburb, post code and t-shirt colour. Starting in 2009, by mid-2015 there were 18 groups running, covering over 50 km of beach across the top of Melbourne's Port Phillip Bay with approx. 1500 volunteers signed up to help keep our beaches clean.

MBTC Spring Meeting with Kieran from BrainWave

**Djerring Centre behind Collingwood Town Hall On Eddy Court** **🚲 MBTC Spring Meeting: Featuring BrainWave Bikes!** Don't miss our next meeting featuring special guest Kieran McMahon, founder of **BrainWave Bikes**—an incredible charity supporting children with brain conditions through modern bicycle recycling. **What they do:** * **Restore & Resell:** Turning donated bikes into high-quality rides for the public. * **Professional Service:** Offering expert maintenance and repairs. * **Eco-Friendly:** Keeping bikes out of landfills through sustainable recycling. Backed by corporate sponsors and a top-notch facility, Kieran and his team of four mechanics have built a brilliant resource for our community. Come hear their story and discover how they do it! Peter and Margaret have just spent 2 months in Canada with their bikes. So enjoy the tall but true tales of their adventure conquering the Klondike Trail in the Yukon , maybe. ### A pleasant afternoon with scones , jam and cream and a lovely cup of tea will be served. Just lovely. Alister is also providing some homemade Marmalade Jam. Wow!

A Creative Morning in Nature

A Creative Morning in Nature— *spring landscape sketching this month* :) (Self-Guided) Saturday, 12 September, 10:00am — 12:00pm University of Divinity (outside gardens) 90 Albion Road, Box Hill 3128 This is a quiet, self-guided (untutored) space to slow down, create, and spend time alongside others. Please bring your own materials. It’s a morning to create unhurriedly in the beautiful spring — to make, reflect, and simply be. Through art, we hope to create a gentle space for connection, encouragement, and shared presence. We hope this will become a simple monthly rhythm — a place to keep returning to, to create, connect, and enjoy the process together. If this resonates with you, feel free to RSVP here.