Play a game or two of 500 cards online via the Trickster Cards website, with fellow Nomads 500 card players.  TYPE: Social ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Enjoy playing a social game of 500 cards, in groups of four, from anywhere in Australia or even overseas, from the comfort of your own home, while enjoying your favorite beverage or nibbles. You will be able to see and hear the other players and enjoy the banter of your fellow Nomads members.  BOOKING: By Monday 29th May. To register click on Get Tickets. You will be e-mailed the link to play the game prior to 7pm on Tuesday 30th May.  Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: At 7pm click on the link that will be e-mailed to you on Tuesday prior to the game.  LEADER: Stephan C. | Email LeaderStephanC.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Enjoy a scenic walk around Warburton in the Upper Yarra Valley. (Note: This event was originally scheduled for 7 May, but was rescheduled because of delays due to bus replacements on the Lilydale line until 21 May). GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy approximately 8 km circuit walk. Most of the walk will be fairly flat but there will be some short climbs and descents, steep at times. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Warburton is a beautiful small town sitting beside the Yarra River and surrounded by forests. This walk, starting from central Warburton, will encompass sections of the O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail, the Yarra River Walk and the Warburton Rail Trail. From the meeting point, we'll cross the river then walk uphill, mostly on a gentle gradient to meet the O'Shannassy Aqueduct Trail. We'll follow that trail eastwards, surrounded by tall trees and ferns, with many spectacular vistas over the Yarra Valley. Afterwards, we head down to the river to walk back to the start point via the Warburton Rail Trail and the Yarra River Walk, with a short detour to view the quirky, no nail, house that Boinga Bob built at 20 Highfield Rd. Those who would like some refreshments afterwards can linger for a while at the Alpine Hotel prior to heading back home. BOOKING: By Thursday 25th May. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11:20am at the bus stop in front of the Alpine Hotel, 3340 Warburton Hwy, Warburton. There is parking on site, but Warburton is very busy on the weekends, so allow plenty of time to find a parking spot. You can park along the Warburton Highway in front of the Alpine Hotel or on Station Rd (which is behind the Alpine Hotel), then walk over the Rail Trail and down through the hotel grounds to the bus stop. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X912 grid S3 | VicRoads map 80 grid D7 | Google map g.page/Alpine-Hotel-Warburton?share.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: You can use public transport to get to and from this walk: Getting There: Catch the Lilydale train that departs Flinders Street Station at 9:06am (or Richmond at 9:19am), arriving in Lilydale at 10:15am. From there catch the 10:27am #683 Warburton bus, which should arrive at the Alpine Retreat (aka The Alpine) at 11:13am. Returning: #683 buses depart from Warburton for Lilydale Station at 3:39pm, 4:39pm, 5:23pm, 6:29pm... DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 73 km, approximately 1.5 hours to drive, just over 2 hours by public transport. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots and dress according to the weather forecast. A hat, insect repellent and layered clothing are recommended. The tracks can be wet and slippery at this time of year, and Warburton is likely to be colder and wetter than Melbourne. LEADER: Johnathon M. | Email LeaderJohnathonM.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. Image: Cycling along the O'Shannassey Aquaduct trail (courtesy of Warburton Holiday Park).   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

IMPORTANT: Due to the forecast weather conditions, this ride will now start at the Convent Bakery (Abbotsford Convent) rather than at Eltham Station (i.e. the ride direction has been reversed)! A leisurely, scenic cycling ride beside the Diamond Creek and the Yarra River. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium 30 km point-to-point cycling (with moderate 15 km option). Abbotsford Convent to Heidelberg: Moderate 15 km point-to-point cycling. Heidelberg to Eltham:  Moderate 15 km point-to-point cycling. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We'll start with a coffee at the Convent Bakery. We'll then decide, based on weather conditions and the attendees' fitness levels, whether to have lunch in Heidelberg (at 15 km) or Eltham (at 30 km). The route we'll follow will be along the Main Yarra Trail and the Diamond Creek Trail. After lunch you can exit the ride via Heidelberg Station or Eltham Station. Trains depart from Eltham Station for Flinders Street Station every 20 minutes (at 2:01pm, 2:21pm, 2:41pm, 3:01pm, 3:21pm etc). BOOKING: By Saturday 20th May. To register, please click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:20am at Convent Bakery, Abbotsford Convent, 1 St Heliers St, Abbotsford. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 2D grid C9 | Google map goo.gl/maps/6SXTCbs4vtMrS8TdA?coh=178571&entry=tt.  FOOD: We will order lunch at EITHER The Train Yard cafe in Heidelberg OR at Platform 3095 beside Eltham Station.  APPAREL: Bike, helmet and appropriate attire based on the weather forecast. Layers are your best weapon against the vagaries of Melbourne's changeable weather! A spare tube is advisable and a waterproof layer is essential! LEADER: Alan D. | Email LeaderAlanD.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Explore both Sanatorium Lake and Camel's Hump in one trip with this moderate track. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate 9 km walk with a total rise of 300m. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Take a relaxing walk down to the lake before climbing Camel's Hump. Camel’s Hump is the highest of Mount Macedon’s peaks. The tracks are easy to follow, well maintained, and simple enough for all fitness levels. These trails are usually pretty muddy, but shouldn't be too hard to traverse - though it gets a little bit steep up towards the summit. This trail also avoids walking along the road, though you'll double-back on part of the paths you took to each landmark. BOOKING: By Friday 12th May. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am at Days Picnic Area. Park at the parking space off Lions Head Road to best access amenities such as the picnic grounds and public restrooms. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport is not viable. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X909 G9 | Google map: goo.gl/maps/kz8sJtg7EuNUHkxSA. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water.  APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots and dress according to the weather forecast.   LEADER: Richard C. | Email LeaderRichardC.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Our Annual General Meeting, in conjunction with the regular monthly social night. GRADE: Social.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Join us in a private room for the AGM followed by dinner in lieu of our regular social gathering. The first part of this night will involve the formal business necessary to satisfy the requirements of our incorporation as an association, including presentation and acceptance of financial and other reports, and the election of office bearers for the next 12 months. After this, please stay for a meal or for socialising. There will be a special mail‐out to all members in advance of the AGM. Drinks can be purchased at the Bar (outside of the meeting room). The pre-ordered meals will be served in the private room at 8pm sharp. Attending online via Zoom: If you wish, you can attend the AGM online via Zoom. Just select "Online - via Zoom" as the "Attendance Mode" when you get your ticket. In any case, the Zoom link will be emailed prior to the meeting to everybody who has registered. BOOKING BOOKING TO ATTEND: By Monday 1st May. To register your intention to attend, click on Get Tickets. BOOKING YOUR MEAL: A link will be provided here (and in an email sent to those who have registered) a little before the event to enable you to book your meal online. It will then be delivered to the room after the AGM. You will also be able to order in person on the night, but your meal then won't arrive at the same time as the others. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm at the Bleakhouse Hotel, 97 Beaconsfield Parade, Albert Park (on the corner of Victoria Ave and Beaconsfield Pde).  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 2J grid H10 | Google map goo.gl/maps/594ZX3oiqidEZrrRA.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The tram route #1 terminus is right outside the hotel. LEADER: Richard C. | Email LeaderRichardC.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

A short walk within historic Trentham and part of the Wombat Trail, a loop that goes around the edges and through Trentham along well made paths. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy, approximately 10 km, circuit walk on formed paths.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Trentham is a small town on the edge of the Wombat State Forest. There are a number of reserves and walking trails around this historic area, including part of the Wombat Trail, a loop taking the walker around the edge of the Victorian town into the surrounding bushland. The path runs upstream along Stony Creek and its native bush reserve. After leaving Stony Creek, you reach the historic Trentham Cemetery (est. 1870). Crossing over the Trentham-Blackwood Road, we enter Rahills Rd and Golden Point Rd past the Trentham Racecourse, where the last race was run 110 years ago. Returning to Trentham we will make our way back to town via the old Police Camp Reserve, in Camp St (no pun intended), containing a preserved old jail built in 1866. Back into the Trentham township past the historic Red Beard Bakery (run continuously since the 1890s) and then onto the 1880s Trentham Railway Station and along the railway line. We return to the Quarry St/High St intersection for the end of the loop and picnic lunch/BBQ facilities within the Quarry Street Reserve. BOOKING: By Friday 28th April. To register, click on Get Tickets. If you wish to stay on Saturday night, select Saturday from the Accommodation Nights question when booking. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am on the south side of the Quarry St / High St intersection, Trentham.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X909 grid E10 | Google map goo.gl/maps/76ktsq5uc4igUVdr5.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 93 km, between 75 and 90 minutes to drive via the M79 Calder Fwy. Parking is available in Quarry St, on the north and the south side of its intersection with High Street (the main Trentham throughfare and just downhill from the Cosmopolitan Hotel). PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport options are available via train between Southern Cross station and Woodend (or Kyneton), plus a bus to Trentham. Myki cannot be used on the Daylesford bus service - tickets should be purchased online in advance. Recommended options: Getting There: From Southern Cross, catch the 9:06am Echuca service and alight at Woodend at 10:04am. Transfer to the Daylesford bus service that departs from Woodend at 10:14am and arrives at Trentham Milk Bar/Market St at 10:36am. The bus stop is about 300 metres from the meeting point - from the bus stop head north, then turn left into High St (C318). The second High St intersection is Quarry St, the meeting point. Returning: either Trentham 2:39pm arriving Southern Cross 4:24pm or Trentham 6:39pm arriving Southern Cross 8:29pm. For either of these services, catch the Daylesford-Woodend bus service from Trentham Milk Bar/Market St, which should arrive in Woodend to connect to the V/Line train service to Southern Cross Station, departing Woodend about 15 minutes later. OVERNIGHT OPTION: There is the possibility of staying overnight on Saturday, as there is space to pitch your tent, campervan etc in the grounds of the leader's home in Trentham, with access to bathroom facilities. There are also a couple of spots available inside the house for lilos.  FOOD: Saturday Dinner: for those choosing to spend Saturday night in Trentham, a BYO BBQ will be held at the leader's property in Trentham. BYO everything. Sunday Lunch: a BYO BBQ will be held at Quarry Street Reserve. BYO meat or vegetarian options for a BBQ lunch beside the meeting point. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots and warm, waterproof layers. Trentham is at 700 metres elevation, so it's likely to be cooler and wetter than Melbourne and the trails may be muddy.  LEADER: Robert H. | Email LeaderRobertH.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

### CANCELLED DUE TO INSUFFICIENT NUMBERS - EVENT WILL BE RESCHEDULED LATER IN 2023 - FULL REFUNDS WILL BE MADE TO THOSE WHO BOOKED TICKETS ###   Join us for a fun evening of nude 10 pin bowling at a location in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne. We have hired the entire venue. The event is open to Nomads members and visitors. Ticket holders will receive address details of the venue by Wednesday 26th April 2023. We are only able to share the venue details, including the suburb, with confirmed ticket holders. DINNER AFTER THE BOWLING: Some of us may like to go for dinner after the Bowling night, so we have booked a table with a local Chinese Cafe/Restaurant in Box Hill - everyone is invited to come along. The table is booked for us under the name of "Russell" from 10.20pm to midnight. You will have to wear your clothes in this venue, sorry. If you could send an email to Russell and Michael to let us know that you would like to come along that would help with the seating arrangements. Please send your email to Assistant Leader Russell The restaurant is Hills BBQ Noodle Shop, 586 Station St, Box Hill. There is some parking in Station St and also around the corner in Bank St.  See you there. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We will meet out the front of the venue at 7.30pm if the weather is fine, or inside the foyer if it is raining. Please do not block the entrance, as other patrons may be leaving the building. We would ask that everyone is respectful of the venue staff, who are assisting us to make this event happen. Facemasks are not required to be worn but you may wear a mask if you would prefer. Hand sanitiser will be provided. Once introductions are completed, we will proceed to the bowling area. When advised by the Event Leader, everyone may then undress. All clothes can be left at the rear of the bowling alley. You may wish to bring a small bag for your clothes. There should be no problem with security, but we recommend that you do not bring valuables into the venue, as we are unable to take responsibility for any losses. The time allocated for bowling is 8pm until 10pm. Bowling shoes will be provided for all. You will each be able to select a suitable bowling ball to use during the evening, and then can join in with others at any one of the lanes. Do not worry if you are on your own, we will ensure that everyone finds a group to bowl with. You do not need to be experienced in 10 pin bowling. This is all about having fun with like minded people. Depending on the number of bowlers at each lane, you can typically expect to complete up to two games. There will be a small competition with prizes which will be awarded based on the individual scores of the first game.  In order to maintain everyone's privacy, please note that no photographs will be permitted except as advised by the Event Leader on the night. Phones are not to be used during the evening, and we thank you for assisting us with this. Please see the Event Leader if you have any concerns. It would be appreciated if everyone could promptly depart the venue at 10pm. We would welcome the assistance of a few people to help the organisers with packing up after the night. BOOKING: By Thursday 13th April 2023. To register, click on Get Tickets. Tickets may sell out for this event, so book early. Tickets will be allocated on a "first come, first served" basis. No tickets will be available for purchase at the venue. Ticket prices for this event are the same for Nomads members and visitors to cover the cost of hire of the venue. Please note that the event will be cancelled and full refunds will be made if we are unable to achieve sufficient numbers by 13th April 2023, as we need to fully cover the cost of hiring the venue. No refunds on tickets will be available after 13th April 2023, except for inability to attend due to illness including Coronavirus, or if the event is cancelled by the Event Leader.   If the event is a sellout, a wait list will be created. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7.30pm at the entrance to the venue, ticket holders will receive address details by Wednesday 26th April 2023. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 20-25 km, approximately 30 minutes to drive, or 1 hour 10 minutes by public transport and walking. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The venue is accessible by public transport. Approx 50min train journey from Flinders Street railway station, followed by a 30min walk. More precise public transport details will be provided to ticket holders by Wednesday 26th April 2023. FOOD: You may bring your own drinks to the venue. Alcoholic drinks for personal consumption are permitted in the supper room adjoining the bowling area, but not in the room where we are bowling. No glass, please for safety, and ensure that no drinks at all are taken into the bowling lane area. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: This is a naturist event, not clothing optional, so everyone is asked to be naked while bowling. The only exception is for women during their periods, who may wear a bikini bottom or similar. Bowling shoes will be provided and must be worn. Please bring your own towel to sit on for hygiene reasons. LEADER: Michael J. | Email the Leader if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

On Anzac Day, enjoy an easy cycle ride from Federation Square for lunch in Williamstown, travelling via Port Melbourne, Westgate Park and the Westgate Punt.  GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy 15 km cycling, mostly on off-road trails. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We'll gather at the bike racks between Federation Square and the Yarra River. If you wish, you can get a take-away coffee from Flinders Street Station to have while you're waiting for others to arrive. From Federation Square we'll cycle via Southbank to the cycling path beside the 109 tram line, which takes us to Station Pier in Port Melbourne. There we'll turn right and cycle along the coast and through the astonishing Westgate Park - if we're lucky, the pink lake may be truly pink, though this summer has probably not been hot enough for it to show its true colours! Still in the park, we'll pass under the Westgate Bridge to get to the Westgate Punt, which will take us across the river to land near the Scienceworks Museum. From there it's a short ride along the coast to Williamstown, for lunch at Al Porto Vecchio, 175 Nelson Place, Williamstown. After lunch, you can catch a train from Williamstown Station, cycle back to the CBD along the Coastal Trail then Dynon Road (or return via the punt), or take one of the other cycling trails (for example, the Capital City Trail northbound). Note that the Footscray Road Cycling Trail is currently closed, but there's an excellent detour via Dynon Road. BOOKING: By Sunday 23rd April. To register, please click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am at Princes Walk, beside Federation Square. We'll meet at the bike parking on Princes Walk - Princes Walk runs beside Federation Square between Swanston Street and the MCG. If coming from Flinders Street Station, cross Swanston Street and cycle straight ahead about 200m towards the MCG. You'll see the bike parking on your right (just before the silver public toilets).  If coming from the Federation Square main square, proceed along or beside Swanston Street and take the cycling path immediately after the pedestrian crossing (and just before Princes Bridge). Cycle about 200m towards the MCG and you'll see the bike parking on your right (just before the silver public toilets).   MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X893 grid J10 or map 1B grid Q12 | Google map goo.gl/maps/u9QcMkma1kbuHoDD8. COST: There will be a $5 charge for the Westgate Punt (credit card only, no cash accepted). The lunch cost will depend on what you order. FOOD: We will have lunch at Al Porto Vecchio, 175 Nelson Place, Williamstown.  APPAREL: Bike, helmet and appropriate attire based on the weather forecast. Layers are your best weapon against the vagaries of Melbourne's changeable weather! A spare tube is advisable. LEADER: Alan D. | Email LeaderAlanD.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. Image: by Peter F - Midsumma 2020 cyclists at the  Fed Square meeting point (Yarra on left; Flinders Street Station at rear)   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

A pleasant Autumn walk that circumnavigates the reservoir. At most times the water is within view as we walk through open bushland and more heavily timbered areas. Pass Eagle Point and a long gradual climb to the highest point, providing views of the city and Yarra Valley. Kangaroo sightings possible. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate 18 km circuit walk. The length of the walk makes this a higher grade than Easy. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Sugarloaf Reservoir has a total capacity of 96 gigalitres and was completed in 1981. Sugarloaf uses water pumped from the Yarra River at Yering Gorge and water transferred from the small Maroondah Reservoir via the Maroondah Aqueduct. Sugarloaf is important in meeting peak summer demand in the northern parts of Melbourne. The walk will take between 4-5 hours to complete and is well marked all the way. Lunch will be taken near the site of an old homestead.  BOOKING: By Thursday 20th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: Parks Victoria Guide MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am in the Saddle Dam Car Park (3rd and final car park in the complex); right next to the Treatment Plant.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 273 grid A 7 | Google map goo.gl/maps/xmsDVcTK2ke6iwMX6  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 48 km, approximately 1 hour from central Melbourne, via either Bulleen, Doncaster or Heidelberg then Eltham, Research, Kangaroo Ground and Watsons Creek. Continue on Eltham-Yarra Glen Road (C 726) to Simpson Road.  The entrance is well signed - opposite the Rob Roy Hill Climb Track. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport is NOT an option. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and at least a litre of water (no water refills on the walk). APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. The hills around Eltham can be slightly cooler than central Melbourne. LEADER: Garry Oliver. | Email LeaderGarryO.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Overnight backpacking through the Otway Ranges and along Victoria's Surf Coast. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Hard, 104 km, 7 days, 6 night overnight backpacking - you will need to carry all your food, tent, bedding and clothing etc. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Enjoy a full week of leaving the world behind as you hike along Victoria's beautiful, rugged south coast. A complete description of the planned itinerary will be provided to participants who have registered. This event is only open to Nomads members who have recently participated in at least one other outdoor event with The Nomads. Car pooling will be maximised, with the group travelling together to the start of the hike and returning together from the end of the hike. A car shuffle will be required between Apollo Bay visitor centre and the 12 Apostles visitor centre in order to leave vehicles at the end of the hike to drive back to Apollo Bay visitor centre. A draft itinerary is presented below, though the details may change as further organising and plans are made. START: Apollo Bay Visitor Centre (start hiking around 12noon) Wed 19 April - DAY 1: Apollo Bay to Elliot Ridge ⇒ 10 km ~ walk grade: medium.  Elliot Ridge Great Ocean Walk Campsite - 2 sites booked $31.20 Thur 20 April - DAY 2: Elliot Ridge to Blanket Bay ⇒ 12 km ~ walk grade: easy  Blanket Bay Great Ocean Walk Campsite - 2 sites booked $31.20 Fri 21 April - DAY 3: Blanket Bay to Cape Otway ⇒ 11 km ~ walk grade: easy/medium, then Cape Otway to Aire River ⇒ 10 km ~ walk grade: medium. Note: combining 2 day-hike sections.   Aire River Great Ocean Walk Campsite - 2 sites booked $31.20 Sat 22 April - DAY 4: Aire River to Johanna Beach ⇒ 14 km ~ walk grade: medium.   Johanna Beach Great Ocean Walk Campsite - 2 sites booked $34.80 Note: Will pick up our food drop at Johanna beach. Sun 21 April - DAY 5: Johanna Beach to Ryans Den ⇒ 14.2km ~ walk time 4-6 hrs ~ grade: medium/hard.  Ryans Den Great Ocean Walk Campsite - 2 sites booked $34.80 Mon 22 April - DAY 6: Ryans Den to Devil’s Kitchen ⇒ 14.4km ~ walk time 5-6 hrs ~ grade: medium/hard.  Devils Kitchen Great Ocean Walk Campsite- - 2 sites booked $34.80 Tue 23 April - DAY 7: Devil’s Kitchen to Twelve Apostles ⇒ 15.1 km ~ walk time 4-6 hrs ~ grade: medium/hard.  END: Twelve Apostles visitors centre (finish hiking around 3pm) The Twelve Apostles kiosk is open 10.00 am to 5.00 pm daily. The kiosk sells a range of items including tea, coffee, cold drinks, confectionery, ice creams, souvenirs, and a small range of hot/cold food. Sunscreen, hats and insect repellent are also sold. Toilets and parking are available. Dinner option: There is the option of having a beverage and dinner together on the drive home at a pub or brewery at Lorne or Anglesea. Recomendation or suggest of places are welcome.    FURTHER INFORMATION: Parks Victoria - The Great Ocean Walk The Great Ocean Walk - Complete Guide BOOKING: By Wednesday 12th April, or ASAP to ensure you don't miss out. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 9.00am, the car shuffle and food drop will take approximately 3 hours, the hike should start around 12ish. Great Ocean Road Visitor Information Centre, 100 Great Ocean Rd, Apollo Bay, Victoria.   MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X927 grid A10 | Google map https://goo.gl/maps/8EHarCTjmu71Ye7n8  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 196 km, approximately 2 hour 35 minutes via Prices Fwy/M1 towards Corio, then bypassing Geelong and on through Winchelsea to turn left onto C119 to Skenes Creek and turn right to Apollo Bay. FOOD | APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: You will need to carry enough food for 4 days - we will have a food drop at Johanna Beach, so you won't need to carry food for the entire week! Comfortable walking boots are essential plus clothing layers to keep you comfortable in all possible weather possibilities, from cold and wet to relatively warm. Those who have registered will be provided with detailed instructions and a packing list, organised to ensure we share as much equipment as possible to minimise the load that each person will need to carry. COST: The costs for the expedition will be shared equally between the participants. There will be charges for camping in National Parks as well as for the food drop to be delivered to the mid-point of the hike.  LEADER: Stephan C. | Email LeaderStephanC.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

RE-SCHEDULED TO SUNDAY 23 APRIL DUE TO WET WEATHER ON BOTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY - SLIPPERY CONDITIONS A pleasant Autumn walk that circumnavigates the reservoir. At most times the water is within view as we walk through open bushland and more heavily timbered areas. Pass Eagle Point and a long gradual climb to the highest point, providing views of the city and Yarra Valley. Kangaroo sightings possible. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate 18 km circuit walk. The length of the walk makes this a higher grade than Easy. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Sugarloaf Reservoir has a total capacity of 96 gigalitres and was completed in 1981. Sugarloaf uses water pumped from the Yarra River at Yering Gorge and water transferred from the small Maroondah Reservoir via the Maroondah Aqueduct. Sugarloaf is important in meeting peak summer demand in the northern parts of Melbourne. The walk will take between 4-5 hours to complete and is well marked all the way. Lunch will be taken near the site of an old homestead.  BOOKING: By Thursday 13th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: Parks Victoria Guide MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am in the Saddle Dam Car Park (3rd and final car park in the complex); right next to the Treatment Plant.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 273 grid A 7 | Google map goo.gl/maps/xmsDVcTK2ke6iwMX6  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 48 km, approximately 1 hour from central Melbourne, via either Bulleen, Doncaster or Heidelberg then Eltham, Research, Kangaroo Ground and Watsons Creek. Continue on Eltham-Yarra Glen Road (C 726) to Simpson Road.  The entrance is well signed - opposite the Rob Roy Hill Climb Track. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport is NOT an option. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and at least a litre of water (no water refills on the walk). APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. The hills around Eltham can be slightly cooler than central Melbourne. LEADER: Garry Oliver. | Email LeaderGarryO.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Join the regular Friday cyclists on Easter Monday (in lieu of a ride on Good Friday). The weather forecast for Monday is looking cool and possibly a little damp, but hopefully will hold off for us to enjoy a pleasant ride. The plan is to have a leisurely start to this Easter Monday ride, with coffee, or even breakfast, at the Convent Bakery before doing a suburban loop up Darebin Creek and back down St George’s Rd. Along the way we will explore the recently opened trail under the new skyrail between Murray Road and Oakover Road. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: This is a medium grade ride of 40 km. It is all on sealed paths, mostly offroad and with only one short substantial hill heading into Darebin Parklands. The lunch cafe is at the 31 km mark. The route is shown on the Abbotsford Convent to Rushall Station via Darebin Creek, the Ring Road and St George's Rd Google map. We should have a tail wind heading north but there will probably be a head wind on the way back. If needed, there are easy train bailout options at Alphington, Reservoir and Rushall Stations.   ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We will initially ride along the Yarra Trail to the start of the Darebin Creek Trail, which we will then follow up to the Ring Road.  There we will swing west and ride a few kilometres to Dalton Rd, where we will start to head back south. This will lead us to Cheddar Road and on to our lunch spot, the Northside Cafe, 251/255 Broadway, Reservoir. After lunch, we will head down High St, then St George’s Rd to Rushall Station, where the ride will finish, checking out the new section of train under the skyrail along the way. BOOKING: By Sunday 9th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: The ride will depart at 10:30am from Abbotsford Convent, St Heliers St, Abbotsford. Come earlier if you want a coffee, or even join some of us for breakfast at the Convent Bakery. FOOD: Lunch will be taken at the Northside Cafe, 251/255 Broadway, Reservoir, so no need to bring food unless you think you might like a snack along the way. A litre of water is recommended. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Your bike and helmet, and dress according to the weather forecast. Layers are recommended, including a rain protection layer. A spare tube for your bike's wheel size is also advisable. LEADER: George W. | Email LeaderGeorgeW.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Enjoy the comfort of a home base, together with access to the world class Wilsons Promontory National Park for day walks. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy/Medium – day walks and beach activities.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We have a private house at Yanakie overlooking Corner Inlet just outside the park entrance. You can come down for as many days as you like. It is quite flexible. There are many nice day walks in the area. We will decide where to walk each day taking into account the condition of the weather and the participants. The house offers a hot shower, comfortable accommodation and a log fire to warm up if it is cold.  Shower and toilet facilities are available in the house. Camping is available on the property. Bed and floor space is limited in the house, so it will be allocated on a needs basis. Alternatively you can look for accommodation close by, but book early as Easter time is busy. There is very limited shopping in the area. Bring your own breakfasts and lunches. On Friday night a BBQ is offered. Bring your own meat/veggie burger and anything you like to accompany that. Saturday and Sunday night meals are provided for a small donation. Roger no longer owns the property, so there is now a small fee of $7 per person, per night (Fri/Sat/Sun) to cover costs. To make things simple it is the same fee whether you camp, or squash into the house. Visitors should take out a Temporary 1 month membership (cost $8) prior to selecting Get Tickets. BOOKING: By Friday 31st March. To register, click on Get Tickets. There is a limit of 30 people, and it is on a first-booked first-served basis. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. If you are feeling unwell prior to departing for the event, please do not attend as you could spread something. Contact the leader and your ticket cost will be reimbursed. FURTHER INFORMATION: www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: You can arrive any time from Thursday as arranged with the leader. You will be given location details after registering.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X928/628 grid C10 | VicRoads map 103 grid D7 | Google map goo.gl/maps/A8fupz5R28HgD9Ec9. Detailed directions will be provided after the RSVP date.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Approximately 195 km. Yanakie is 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne towards Wilsons Promontory. TRANSPORT: Public transport not available. We will try to maximise car-pooling as parking is limited at the house. FOOD: Bring supplies for your own breakfast and lunch. Communal night meals will be arranged once the numbers are known. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Warm waterproof gear and changes of clothing. Summery attire is also likely to be needed. It might be warm enough to dive into the sea. Light comfortable walking footwear. ACCOMMODATION: There are a limited number of beds, some floor space, and plenty of tent space in the garden. Bring linen and towels or a sleeping bag if sleeping inside. COST: Accommodation charge of $7 per person per night (to be paid when you "Get Tickets"). Free entry to the National Park. Cash donation towards any meals that are provided. LEADER: Roger H. | Email LeaderRogerH.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Our regular monthly social night - this month at the Palace Hotel, Camberwell.  GRADE: Social.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Join us for our monthly social evening where members can enjoy a meal, talk about upcoming events, compare notes on past activities and float ideas on events they would like to see run. April is planning month, where we sketch out the program of events for the upcoming winter quarter. Most of the planning will have been done via a Zoom pre-planning meeting the previous night, but in this social evening we also welcome additional suggestions to fill any gaps. Do you want to see more of a particular activity, or do you have a particularly favourite area of Victoria you would like to share with others? Do you have an idea for a walk we haven't done before? If so, we'd love to hear from you. Everyone is welcome – you don't have to volunteer for an activity. New members are especially invited to any of the monthly Nomads social evenings. See the Palace Hotel website for more details, including their reasonably priced menu.  BOOKING: By Monday 3rd April. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm at the Palace Hotel, 893 Burke Rd, Camberwell. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 45 grid J11. Google map goo.gl/maps/crgZLRcfdTs2GPSN6. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Palace Hotel is directly opposite Camberwell Station. Alternatively, catch tram 72 to stop 64 (Camberwell Station). LEADER: Garry O. | Email LeaderGarryO.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Preparing the draft Winter program of events - online via Zoom. GRADE: Social.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The bulk of the planning for the upcoming Winter program will be done in this pre-planning meeting via Zoom in readiness to present the draft program the next night at the Social Evening, where attendees will be invited to provide additional suggestions and help fill any gaps. BOOKING: By 5pm Monday 3rd April. To register, click on Get Tickets. Alternatively, simply click on the Zoom link in the reminder email sent to members a few days prior to the event. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. DRAFT PROGRAM: Nomads Draft Program. You may add your suggestions to this online spreadsheet - be sure to click to some other cell once you've finished, so that your suggestion gets saved. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm online via Zoom. Those who registered will be sent the Zoom link by 6pm on Monday evening. LEADER: Garry O. | Email LeaderGarryO.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. Photo by Bich Tran from Pexels.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS