Hello Reader,

I recently asked some of our Seniors in Melbourne contributors to tell us about their Melbourne "happy place" — somewhere they return to for a sense of calm, connection, nostalgia, or simply because it makes them smile.

The responses were wonderful.

Some chose well-known landmarks, others picked quiet corners of the city.

What I love is that the article isn't really about the places themselves. It's about the memories, routines and moments that have made those places special over the years.

It's also a chance to get to know some of the people behind the stories you read each week. Rather than formal biographies, you'll meet them through the places that mean the most to them.

You can read the full collection here.​

And I'd love to know — where is your own Melbourne happy place?

Warmly,
Amy

P.S. A quick invitation! On 30 July we're hosting a special book talk and morning tea at Mary Martin Bookshop with Jaye, the owner. If you enjoy books, good conversation and meeting like-minded people, we'd love you to join us. It's shaping up to be a wonderful morning. Book a ticket here.​

Let's Explore Melbourne and Beyond

​Ancient Rome in Melbourne​ Have you been yet? Read Kathy’s review to see why this is one of Melbourne’s must-see cultural experiences. Read review

“ Melbournians and our country cousins love an ancient history exhibition! We have frequently enjoyed hosting the Egyptians, have entertained the Vikings several times and now we welcome back the Romans to our fair city. ​Read more here.​ — Kathy

PARTNER CONTENT ​Your CBD Escape​ Everything you need for a comfortable Melbourne stay, right in the city centre. Oaks Hotels puts you close to theatres, dining and trams for an easy, low-fuss getaway. Select your dates

​Master Southern Cross Station with Ease​ Heading off on a train adventure? This handy guide will help you navigate Melbourne’s busiest transport hub with confidence. Read our guide

​Affordable Art Fair Returns​ From 27 – 30 August, this art show will once again transform the Royal Exhibition Building into a vibrant hub of original, contemporary art. Read Kathy's review

​Discover 14 Free Walking Tours​ Uncover local history and fascinating stories without spending a cent. Start walking

PARTNER CONTENT ​Meaningful Jewellery - by charlotte​ Discover up to 50% off selected styles*, limited time only. by charlotte creates meaningful jewellery, designed to be cherished. Discover silver and gold jewellery loved by Australians. Shop now online Read our guide to upcoming EOFY sales here!​

​Give Memories, Not More Stuff​ From indulgent experiences to unforgettable adventures, discover gift ideas that create lasting memories for family and friends. Find a Gift

Popular Picks: This Week’s Top 3

• ​Winter in Melbourne: A City That Shines in the Cold​
• ​Bendigo without the gallery? Still absolutely worth the trip​
• ​The Best Shopping in Melbourne: A Guide to Iconic Spots and Hidden Gems​

Enter our Weekly Giveaway

​Win a Family Pass to Cartier at NGV​ Discover dazzling jewels, iconic designs and extraordinary craftsmanship in this spectacular Melbourne-exclusive exhibition. Enter now for your chance to experience the glamour of Cartier with the whole family. ENTER NOW

WHAT'S ON - Mark Your Calendars

• ​Sheltering – Bangarra Dance Theatre (18 – 27 Jun 2026). Bangarra Dance Theatre returns to Arts Centre Melbourne’s Playhouse with a powerful triple bill exploring First Nations perspectives on connection, protection and storytelling through striking contemporary Indigenous dance, evocative music and deeply moving visual storytelling.​
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• ​Cirque du Soleil: KOOZA (until 19 Jul 2026). Step under the Big Top for Cirque du Soleil’s dazzling KOOZA, a breathtaking spectacle combining high-flying acrobatics, clowning, live music and lavish costumes in an exhilarating journey exploring identity, fear and discovery through classic circus artistry and theatrical wonder. Tickets from $84.​
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• ​Under The Clocks: Premium City Walking Tour (Fridays, 10 am – 1 pm). Join us for a guided tour of Melbourne’s laneways, meet new friends and savour revelations about the city you thought you knew. 3-hour walking tour, including coffee or tea mid-way. Tickets $60. Book here. Read Kathy’s review.​
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• ​Greg Branson: Manifesto Melbourne (until 12 Jul 2026). This free exhibition by artist Greg Branson explores Melbourne through a photographic lens, reimagining the city by referencing the styles of iconic photographers. From laneways and landmarks to everyday urban life, the works reflect how different artistic perspectives shape the way we see the city. City Library, free entry.​
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• ​Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) (6 – 23 Aug 2026). One of Australia’s oldest and largest film festivals, MIFF presents a major program of international and Australian cinema across feature films, shorts and experimental works. Screenings take place across Melbourne and regional Victoria, showcasing bold, diverse storytelling and celebrating filmmaking talent from around the world.
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• ​Machu Picchu: Journey to the Lost City (until 31 Aug 2026). A new immersive VR experience in Melbourne CBD, giving visitors the chance to walk through the famed ruins of Machu Picchu in extraordinary detail. Seniors card tickets from $37.50. Read Marjie’s review here.​
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• ​Pride and Prejudice* (*sort of) (18 Jun – 12 Jul 2026). Coming to Australia for the first time, five fearless women bring Austen’s world of love, class and chaos to life with heart, humour and unstoppable energy in this modern take on one of the world’s most adapted pieces of literature.​
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• ​Discovering the Impressionists, Geelong Gallery (20 Jun – 11 Oct 2026). This exhibition flows across five galleries, presenting more than 70 paintings from across two generations of Impressionist artists, the majority from private collections in France and never before seen in Australia. Tickets from $25.​
  There is also a free exhibition pairing Claude Monet’s celebrated Haystacks, midday with works by leading Australian Impressionists.

​seniorsinmelbourne.com.au​

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