Community Gardens Melbourne

Community Camp (Yarra Valley VIC | 1.5 Hours from Melbourne CBD )

**Registration required at below link:** **Tickets: $50** https://events.humanitix.com/oot-and-aboot-community-camp-jul-2026-edition-or-yarra-valley-vic-or-1-5-hours-from-melbourne-cbd/tickets 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 second 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 welcoming and inclusive camp environment * Lawn and board games * Casual group walks in nature * Swimming * 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 **16 participants**, creating an intimate and friendly atmosphere. No prior camping experience is required. The campsite is located in Yarra Valley, 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 gears (tent, sleeping bag, air mattress, pillow, etc.), warm clothes, food, and drinks (except breakfast). Please reach out if you don't have any or missing some of the camping gears, we may a solution for you * Alcohol may be consumed responsibly * As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements — please bring food that meets your needs * Some uneven ground and bush walking may be involved * Dogs and other pets are not permitted due to our insurance Park Facilities (shared with other guests): * Powered and grassed/graveled sites * Camp Kitchen: Includes microwave, toaster, kettle, fridge and free barbeques * 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. * Can you cater for dietary requirements or allergies? As a new, volunteer-run charity, we’re not yet able to cater for specific dietary or allergy requirements. Please bring food that meets your needs. * Can I bring alcohol? Yes — alcohol may be consumed responsibly in line with campsite rules and community expectations. * Are pets allowed? No. Dogs and other pets are not permitted at this event. * 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 and drinks, a camp chair, warm layers, and a torch or headlamp. More details will be shared via email closer to the event.

Community Conversations: Imagining Stronger Social Cohesion in Boroondara

Community Conversations: Imagining Stronger Social Cohesion in Boroondara During the July session of Community Conversations, we will partner with the 'Bahá'i Creating an Inclusive Narrative' project to contribute to its ongoing learning about advancing social cohesion in Australia. Since its inception in 2019, the project has brought together hundreds of people through roundtable discussions exploring the "bigger story" of Australian identity - one that embraces the diverse voices, cultures and historical experiences of all Australians. We warmly invite you to join our Community Conversations gathering on 17 July 2026 and participate in a Boroondara focused roundtable discussion that will help shape a shared vision for fostering greater social cohesion within our community. The consultation process will be guided by principles of reciprocity, respect and purposeful consultation. With the current challenges facing our community there has never been a more important time to contribute to this conversation. Insights and perspectives shared during the roundtable will help inform the second edition of the Creating an Inclusive Narrative publication, which will be shared with government and civil society organisations. For more information about the Bahá'i Creating an Inclusive Narrative project: **Creating an Inclusive Narrative Project** (https://collections.humanitix.com/creating-an-inclusive-narrative-project#CollectionAbout-title) Register now to reserve your place. Community Conversations is a monthly initiative of the Boroondara Bahá'í community that brings people together to explore contemporary challenges, strengthen understanding, and foster meaningful connection. This is a free event and all are invited to attend. Please RSVP to attend: http://bit.ly/4vcpuwh

Late lunch + Gratitude Walk

I've been wanting to combine two of my favourite things - good plant-based food and time outdoors with good humans - so here we go. We're starting with lunch at **Cockatoo Kitchen, 60 Bridge Road, Richmond** \- Asian / Thai\, 100% vegan \(bonus points if you've been craving a good curry\)\. Come hungry\, come as you are\. We've already got 8 people RSVPd, so we'll be grabbing takeaway and heading to nearby Yarra Park to eat together on the picnic tables / grass - perfect for a sunny day. Once we've met, greeted and eaten, we'll wander towards the Royal Botanic Gardens for a **gratitude walk** \- takes about 30 minutes to get there\, easy pace\, no fitness level required\. If you've never done one, here's the shape of it: * Leave the phone in your pocket (or on silent) - just for this bit * Notice 3 things you can see… 3 things you can hear… 2 things you can feel (the breeze, the sun on your skin)… 1 thing you can smell * Appreciate the small stuff - comfy shoes, a nice tree, someone's laugh * Silently reflect, or say your thanks out loud as you go - whatever feels natural Gratitude and stress genuinely can't hold the same space in your brain at once - so this is 30 minutes of your nervous system getting a proper break, dressed up as a nice walk. Feel free to bring a journal (optional) - once we're in the gardens, there'll be a chance to share gratitude for what you're calling in, as if it's already happened. Eg - if you're wanting new friends, you might share that you're grateful you've met some like-minded people who you now catch up with regularly… that you laugh a lot together… that it feels easy. Speak it like it's already yours. Once we reach the gardens, no pressure to stick around as a group - keep chatting with whoever you've clicked with, explore solo, or head off and get on with your Saturday. **Details** 📍 Cookatoo Kitchen, 60 Bridge Road, Richmond 🕜 Saturday 18th July, 1:30pm 🥗 100% vegan, Asian/Thai menu 🚶‍♀️ Gratitude walk to follow (\~30 min to the Botanic Gardens) Come as you are - conversation's an invitation here, never an obligation. Can't wait to see who shows up.

Tree Planting Day and Walk in Merri and Edgars Creek Parklands

Ferndale Park Trail - Gardiners Creek SUNDAY WALK

**Ferndale Park Trail** This Sunday Walk we revisit the riverside trails around Gardiners Creek in Glen Iris. We'll meet at Ferndale Park reserve and walk along Gardiners Creek towards the Glen Iris wetlands and then return to our coffee spot for a catch-up and chat. **When**: Sunday, 12th July 2026 at 9:00 am **Start:** Meet at the carpark off **Glen Iris Road, at Ferndale Park** adjacent to the **Scout Hall** at 9.00 AM. If the carpark is full, park in Glen Iris Road. **Coffee:** On our return at the Pantry Cafe. **Summary:** This walk is very scenic along the riverside, on well-formed paved paths. The distance is approximately 5.0 Km. Actual walking time will be about 1.5 hours.

Come As You Are - connection event for women over 40

A curated afternoon for lesbian and sapphic women over the age of 40 to connect and find friends, dates or more. With drink specials, pop up performance, retro music and guided conversations this event is for everyone with experience and maturity that is looking for connection. Low key and friendly, this event is for you to come on your own or with friends and we'd love to see you there! https://www.trybooking.com/DMQXC

Save the date Ripponlea

Smith & Deli "Lazy Picnic" Saturdays! 100% Vegan! :-D

From the highly-successful Smith & Daughters is this amazingly tasty spin-off lunch bar! More options than you can poke a stick at, and it's all very punny! :-) This meetup is a picnic! So we'll meet, grab food, and eat it in a park nearby.

Expand Your Social Circle - Kudos 2 Friends Urban Coffee? Social? Walk? (CBD)

**\-\-\- Follow Us & Get Update On Instagram \-\-\-** [www.instagram.com/kudos2friends](http://www.instagram.com/kudos2friends) We will meet at the starting point, grab a coffee and have a sit down social coffee catchup. If weather permits, we will take a short stroll around the city with a take away coffee. Dress for comfort and outdoor walk. Come along & simply say, "Hi, it's my first time joining the group event." or ask the organiser to introduce you. You can take it slow and start from there. If you enjoy the conversation(s), you can hang out in the area over a bite/ drink after. **\-\-\- 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 \-\-\-** If you change your plan or decide not to attend. Please update your RSVP, so others can 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.

Wetlands Walk – Connection, Birdlife & Nature at Laverton Estuary

Join me for a relaxed, family friendly walk through the wetlands, estuary, and coastal landscapes of Melbourne’s west. Whether you come for the birdlife, fresh air, meaningful conversation, or simply to slow down and connect — you are warmly welcome. Starting at Apex Park in Altona, we’ll explore the Laverton Creek Spit Conservation Zone, salt marsh, and boardwalks, finishing at the Hundred Steps of Federation lookout with wide views toward the You Yangs. At the lookout, we’ll pause to rest, chat, and enjoy the views. Please bring drinks and snacks, as there are no places to purchase food along the way. **Agenda** * 2:00pm – Meet at Apex Park, Altona (map and photo of meeting spot below) * 2:10pm – Depart * 3:15pm – Hundred Steps lookout break * 5:00pm – Return to starting point The walk is approximately 8km and mostly flat, with the Hundred Steps lookout accessible via either stairs or hill. By PT: Bus 411 from Bay 6, Leeds Street/Paisley Street, Footscray stops across from Apex Park. Please RSVP by clicking “Attend,” and I’ll be in touch with any additional details. This is a rain-or-shine event — any weather updates will be posted in the Event Comments on the day.

🌿✨ The Inner‑City Fitzroy Bohemian Triple‑Market Singles Walk - 10km

🌿✨ **The Inner‑City Bohemian Triple‑Market Singles Walk** Botanic Gardens → The Tan → MCG → East Melbourne → Collingwood → Fitzroy Markets → Prince Alfred Hotel Saturday 11 July — 11:30 AM – ~3:30 PM Approx. 10 km — Max 20 people **👉Meeting Point** Please arrive at 11.15 a.m at the Botanic gardens visitor centre to be checked in. We depart at 11.30 a.m **🎯Finishing point** Prince Alfred Hotel in Carlton You can exit at any point **💛 The Vibe** A flirty, lightly mischievous singles walk through Melbourne’s inner‑city cultural heartlands — lush gardens, iconic sporting temples, hipster laneways, bohemian markets, and a final cosy mingle at Prince Alfred Hotel in Carlton ⚠️ ***Important: A waitlist operates to ensure balanced genders, females can pick males on the waitlist, this event has certain qualifications, read on to learn mor*** **🧠❗Thin**k - Winter sunlight on The Tan - The hum of the MCG - Collingwood’s vibrant back‑streets - Three Fitzroy markets bursting with art, vintage, and chaos - A warm pub finish where conversations can stretch into the afternoon This is Melbourne at its most alive — and you get to explore it with a curated group of singles who actually show up, dress well, and talk to each other **🔒Married and Seperated people**: This one isn’t for you. - Singles events require clarity - Surprise spouses ruin the vibe 🎂 **Age Range — Soft, Like a Good Brie** Aimed at singles 30–55, with flexible exceptions for people who - Fit the social vibe - Contribute positively to the group dynamics - Are warm, respectful, and socially engaged If you’re delightful, you’re welcome If you’re technically in range but behave like a damp sock, you’re not 👥 **Waitlist, Ratios & Curated Mischief** All RSVPs begin on the waitlist so the organiser can curate based on - Gender balance - Comfort of the group - Communication during admission - General vibe fit 🔢 **Event Size** Capped at 20 people for this walk 👨‍🦱 **Men Join After Women** Men are generally admitted only after a woman registers This protects the vibe and supports balanced gender ratios 💁‍♀️ **Female Privilege — Early Bird Advantage** If a woman messages the organiser after being added to “Going,” she may nominate someone from the guys waitlist — provided his communication fits the event’s social expectations. Discretion is assured👍 This means guys may be delayed entry. 👀 **The Creep Filter — Identity Clarity Requirements** Men with obscured photos (sunglasses, hats, blurry faces, avatars, group shots) are removed from the waitlist and placed into “Cancelled", unless I know you 🙏 **Solution**: Fix your profile photo. **⚠️Don't obscure your identity** It’s about identity clarity, comfort and safety. It’s not looks. **🧪 Behavioural Screening** Admission is based on behaviour during the admission process, including - clear communication - respectful tone - ability to follow instructions - socially normal questions - timely responses Men who behave oddly or disruptively are simply not admitted to this event, but generally welcome at "open" social events 💃 **Women Can Be Flaky (We Love Them Anyway)** To maintain ratios, the organiser may admit 1–2 extra women 🗺️ **The Route — A Triple‑Whammy Bohemian Adventure** Starting at Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, we’ll head - Along The Tan - Past the Tennis Centre - Past the MCG - Through Historic East Melbourne - Into the vibrant back‑streets of Collingwood - Then on to three Fitzroy markets, including the iconic Rose St Artists’ Markets, Fitzroy and Fitzroy Mills markets - Finishing at Prince Alfred Hotel in Carlton for drinks, chats, and post‑walk mingling Approx. 10 km, 3–4 hours, including market browse **🧭What to Expect** - Warm welcome - Relaxed social atmosphere - Lightly flirty energy - Small‑group mingling - Gentle hosting - No speed‑dating - No forced games - Just real humans, real conversation, real chemistry ⏱ **Late Arrivals — The “We Start On Time, Darling” Rule** - 15 min late without communication = No‑show - 30 min late even with communication = Not admitted & No Show - We prioritise and don't penalise people who arrive on time We don’t wait at meeting points **⏰No shows and communication** - If you perform a no show and there is a waitlist you will likely be removed from the group - If you can't make the event remove yourself from the going list - Communicate with the organiser to save yourself from being removed from the group - Messages are not monitored after the group leaves 👀 **Walk expectation** - Walk with the group, no speedsters or slow coaches - We walk at a relaxed pace of around 4+km/h - Ensure you have the fitness to complete the walk: **⚠️Unregistered Attendees** Only registered participants may attend. Turning up unannounced is a serious security breach — unknown individuals will be asked to leave immediately.

Indoor Picnic

**Tickets ($10):** [https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1991335361672?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1991335361672?aff=oddtdtcreator) Our [dedicated Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/lgbtsocialhubmelb/) is still warming up, so we wanted to post this here :) Join us on **Saturday 11 July** as we team up with **Studio Take Care** for a welcoming queer potluck dinner. Bring along a homemade dish to share, or pick up some of your favourite snacks from the supermarket on the way. Whether it's something you've spent hours cooking or a simple contribution, everything is appreciated and helps create a shared feast for everyone to enjoy. The venue will have a full bar operating throughout the evening, so you can grab a drink, settle in, and get to know some new people. You're welcome to stay on after dinner and keep the conversations going for as long as you'd like. This event is open to all queer adults aged 18+ and is facilitated by a mental health professional. **[LGBT+ Social Hub Melbourne](https://lgbt.kind-mind.au/events/)** is committed to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces, and we have a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, harassment, and discrimination. If the cost of attendance or bringing food is a barrier due to your circumstances, please get in touch with us. We're happy to discuss other options so that everyone has the opportunity to join us.