Hello Reader,

I’ve recently started following the journey of a Melbourne retiree named Michael Kerrisk — and I can’t stop thinking about it.

At 63, Michael has set himself a remarkable challenge: travelling from Melbourne to London without getting on a single plane. No quick long-haul flight, no shortcuts. Instead, trains, buses, ships and a carefully mapped route that will take him through Southeast Asia, across China and into Central Asia — the “Stans” — before eventually reaching Europe.

He left from Middle Park here in Melbourne, with the goal of arriving in Middle Park, Greenwich, in London. In a straight line it’s around 17,000 kilometres. In reality, it will be much more.

What I find inspiring isn’t just the distance — it’s the mindset. This isn’t a gap year adventure. It’s a thoughtful, curious, later-in-life journey. He’s planned border crossings, visa challenges, overnight trains, and even trained by walking with his loaded backpack before leaving home.

There’s something powerful about deciding that if you want to see the world, you’ll simply… go. Even if it takes longer. Especially if it takes longer.

If you’re on Instagram, you can follow along with his journey here. ​

Enjoy your week,
Amy

P.S. If you’re on the Mornington Peninsula and have ever fancied treading the boards, Limelight Theatre Group at Tootgarook is calling for new cast members aged 55+ — no experience needed, just enthusiasm. Rehearsals Wednesdays 1–3.30pm. Call 0481 190 977 to join the fun.

Let's Explore Melbourne and Beyond

​Making the Most of Gallery Visits​ An outing that offers a comprehensive overview of the diverse artistic landscapes of Australia. Free & open daily

“ As she narrated I could visualize the twelve First Nations female artists, from 3 generations, sitting around and working on the canvas together, engaged with Country and in community with each other. ​ ​Read more here.​ — Chris

PARTNER CONTENT ​Morning Tea & Mozart​ Share delightful conversation and refreshments followed by Mozart’s brilliance at Melbourne Recital Centre on Wednesday 1 April for Concert One: Manheim to Paris with the ANAM Orchestra. Seniors in Melbourne subscribers save 20% on tickets using the code SENIORS20 BOOK NOW

PARTNER CONTENT ​Unique Titanic Experience​ Take a step back in time on this immersive and surprisingly moving virtual journey. Book tickets

​Part of the Market's Fabric​ While I watch the exchange of goods for cash, two customers arrive in succession. As it happens, both have been buying their bread from M&G Caiafa for 45 years. Read more from Paul

​What's it Like Living in the CBD?​ For many people, the city is somewhere you visit, not somewhere you choose to live once you’ve finished full-time work. Kaye & Terry's city move

​Flinders Lane Feeds​ With diverse flavours and inviting atmospheres, it’s a culinary adventure you won't want to miss. Food hop the lane

Popular Picks: This Week’s Top 3

• ​What is Experience Oz? How to save money exploring Melbourne ​
• ​Top Wineries in the Grampians​
• ​23 Fun Group Activities Melbourne Offers for Adults ​

Enter our Comedy Festival Giveaways

​WIN tickets to Ageing: Results May Vary​ Two old(er) comedians take on memory lapses, techno-flubs, romance scams — and even the Grim Reaper — in this hilarious low-tech “seminar” on growing older. ENTER NOW

​WIN tickets to Rich Hall, Chin Music​ The award-winning Montana native is renowned for his expertly crafted tirades, quick-fire banter with audiences and hilarious musical creations. ENTER NOW

Read our guide to the Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2026​

WHAT'S ON - Mark Your Calendars

• ​Threaded Narratives: 50 Years of Women Artists (until 18 Apr 2026). This major exhibition at the Australian Tapestry Workshop celebrates five decades of women’s contributions to Australian art, showcasing how the practices of significant female artists have been reimagined through tapestry. Free entry.​
  ​
• ​DIVA Exhibition (until 26 Apr 2026). This dazzling exhibition celebrates iconic divas from music, film and fashion, showcasing glamorous costumes, bold stories and cultural moments that shaped generations of stage and screen stars. Save 25% on tickets using promo code DIVA25. Limited time only. Read Diane's review.​
  ​
• ​AFI French Film Festival 2026 (3 Mar – 22 Apr 2026). Returning with two weeks of outstanding French cinema — from acclaimed arthouse titles and Cannes favourites to genre gems and contemporary delights — screening at Palace cinemas across Australia.
  ​
• ​Mamma Mia! – Australian Tour (until 14 Mar 2026). Sing along to the ultimate feel-good musical Mamma Mia! as ABBA’s biggest hits come to life in this joyous, high-energy stage production full of sunshine, laughter and heart. All midweek sessions are on sale now.​
  ​
• ​Melbourne Magic Show – Impossible Occurrences (Fridays, 7.30 pm or 9.30 pm). Experience mind-blowing illusions and mind-reading up close in this intimate magic performance by master magician Luke Hocking at the Marriott Hotel, Melbourne, blending sleight of hand, theatrical flair and audience interaction.
  ​
• ​Shen Yun – State Theatre, MCEC (6 – 15 Mar 2026). Experience the breathtaking spectacle of Shen Yun, a world-renowned performing arts show that celebrates 5,000 years of Chinese culture through classical Chinese dance, soaring music and vibrant hand-painted backdrops in a stunning multimedia performance.

​seniorsinmelbourne.com.au​

​Instagram | Facebook Page | Facebook Group | Linked In​

Did someone forward you this email? Sign up for free here and receive it in your inbox each week.

Our newsletters sometimes contain affiliate links. At no extra cost to you, we may earn a small commission if you click on a link and make a purchase.