Free Walks, Wine Bars & a Brilliant New Exhibition


Hello Reader,

Diane again here.

I wanted to share something new I’ve started doing each week that has brought me a lot of joy. A friend of mine, Cheryl, is involved with Soroptimist International of Geelong, and through her I’ve begun volunteering at The Gordon, spending an hour or so chatting in English with migrants and international students.

Members from SI Geelong volunteer regularly for the English as an Additional Language program, helping students — many of whom are refugees or newly arrived migrants — practise their English so they can reach the level needed for work or further study. It’s such a simple thing, really: just conversation. But my goodness, it’s worthwhile.

We talk about everyday life, family, food, the weather — anything at all — and every time I leave feeling uplifted. The students are warm, eager, and so appreciative. And the hour goes by in a flash.

If you’ve ever thought about volunteering but weren’t sure where to start, this is one of those gentle, meaningful ways to make a difference. I’m so glad Cheryl encouraged me to get involved.

Bye for now,
Diane

P.S. Our new walking tours with guide Paul Daffey are now running in December, January, and February. Discover hidden laneways, historic corners, and enjoy a friendly chat (with a coffee break!) along the way. Book your spot today.

What's on
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Let's Explore Melbourne and Beyond

Inspiring Words for Your Next Walk

Victoria Walks invite you to take each day at your own pace and enjoy the beauty around you.

It was a wet but wonderful Saturday morning around the Yarra Bend Park Walk with Parks Victoria volunteers Angela (not me) and Marec. Despite the rain, I decided to go ahead with the walk and found the two guides waiting for me.
Although the other bookings had cancelled, we decided to give it a go and pull out early if the rain worsened, but as all good things go, we enjoyed nearly two hours together, walking through inner city bushland, skirting the Yarra River and up to Dights Falls, which were flowing furiously.
Angie

New at NGV: Westwood | Kawakubo

This major show brings together two icons who changed the way we see clothes, the body, and personal expression.

Meaningful Gifts That Give Back

A simple way to make a difference while treating someone you care about.

PARTNER CONTENT

Understanding Clinical Trials

Melbourne has 2,000+ trials open now. Learn how to join, what to expect and how to find studies that suit you.

PARTNER CONTENT

Experience A Christmas Carol Live

Enjoy a heart-warming retelling of Dickens’ classic tale, brought to life on the Melbourne stage with charm, humour, and festive magic.

Melbourne’s Cosy Wine Bars

Discover welcoming wine bars across the city—perfect for relaxed catch-ups, tasting something new, or unwinding after a day out.

Local Faces: Melanie Ashe

Paul speaks to local business owner and learns about her passion for supporting artisans.


Enter our Weekly Giveaway

Win Tickets to Art of the Table

Enter for your chance to enjoy a December tour or the special Twilight Talk + Tour.


WHAT'S ON - Mark Your Calendars

  • Morning Melodies at Arts Centre Melbourne (monthly). Plan your visits for an uplifting series of 11 morning performances throughout 2026 — perfect for music lovers who prefer daytime events. Tickets from $34.
  • Harry Potter™: The Exhibition (until Feb 2026). Step into the wizarding world in Melbourne to explore authentic film props and costumes, brew potions, cast spells, practice Quidditch, and relive iconic moments from the Harry Potter universe.
  • World of the Book, State Library of Victoria (until 27 May 2026). Explore the 20th anniversary of the Library’s most beloved exhibition. Experience the rare, the sacred and the iconic in this one-of-a-kind exhibition. Free entry.
  • ANASTASIA (From 20 Dec 2025 – 11 Jan 2026). This dazzling musical, featuring the award-winning talents of McNally, Flaherty, Ahrens, and Tresnjak, tells the tale of a brave young woman on a quest to uncover her identity.
  • A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (from August 2026). This inspiring show chronicles the life of Neil Diamond, showcasing his rise from Brooklyn to rock icon. Enjoy classics like “Sweet Caroline” in a vibrant, energy-filled musical memoir created with Diamond himself. Tickets available now!
  • Christmas Events (throughout Dec 2025). Read our list of upcoming Christmas concerts, shows, displays, markets, shopping, dining and more. Also, read our list of Christmas Markets celebrating the festive season.

Daily Crossword

Start your day with a mental challenge!

Joke of the Day

How does a scientist freshen their breath? With experi-mints!


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