** NOTE: This event will be able to proceed on Sunday 1st August but with some limitations on capacity, and with individual group sizes of 10 or less. It is now FULLY BOOKED. ** Travel back in time with the Victorian Goldfields Railway. Enjoy a steam train ride from Castlemaine to Maldon in elegant Victorian-era carriages, have lunch in historic Maldon, itself a snapshot of life in the 1850s, then return to Castlemaine via steam train. V/Line trains connect between Castlemaine and Southern Cross Station. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy social excursion, with strolls around historic Maldon. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Enjoy a social outing with Nomads friends in Victoria's goldfields region. For most, the excursion will start from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne, to catch a V/Line train to Castlemaine, though you can also drive to Castlemaine to meet us there at the railway station. In Castlemaine, we'll board the elegant carriages of the steam train, departing at 11:30am to travel to the historic town of Maldon, where the 1850s streetscape has featured in several period films and documentaries (e.g. Romulus, My Father [2007] featuring Eric Bana). In Maldon we'll have 2.5 hours to have lunch and explore the Maldon old town, where the 1850s streetscape looks much as it did within the 1850s gold rush era. At 2:45pm the steam train will begin the return journey to Castlemaine.  Castlemaine still retains many of its fine Gold Rush buildings, with the town offering a range of cafes, hotels and restaurants and an extensive range of shops. There is excellent coffee available from the station kiosk and there's a historical railway memorabilia display that you'll be able to visit while waiting for departure of the steam train. You'll also be able to take some photos of the steam train at the platform. Maldon, Australia's first notable town, offers a range of antique, specialty shops and cafes. Many places of interest and relics of the gold era are within easy reach of Maldon Railway Station.  Disabled access is available on the VGR train, but there are no toilet facilities on board. Toilet facilities with disabled access are available at both Castlemaine and Maldon railway stations. First Class seats are limited, and most of the Nomads group will be travelling in Excursion Class. If it's important to you that you get a First Class seat, please email LeaderAlanD.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com ASAP to pre-allocate your seats. If no first class seats are available, you can choose to have your booking refunded or converted to excursion class, with refund of the difference. The cost for this event will be the same for Nomads members and visitors. BOOKING: By Friday 30th July. To book, click on Get Tickets.  Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210801: Victorian Goldfields Railway Excursion - Castlemaine to Maldon. FURTHER INFORMATION: Victorian Goldfields Railway (vgr.com.au). MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Southern Cross Station: 8:50am to catch the 9:06am Epsom (Bendigo) service to Castlemaine. Castlemaine Station: 11:15am to catch the 11:30am VGR service to Maldon. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X909 grid C6 | Google map goo.gl/maps/VwvtuHEicTQv9ipcA.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 123 km, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to drive via the M79 Calder Fwy, 1 hour 25 minutes by train. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Assemble at Southern Cross Station at 8:50am to catch the 9:06am Epsom (Bendigo) service, arriving in Castlemaine at 10:31am. For the return we will catch the 3:49pm service in Castlemaine, which arrives at Southern Cross Station at 5:24pm. Castlemaine is in Myki zone 9. V/LINE FARES: Daily (i.e. return) fares from metro Melbourne to Castlemaine are $34.72 Full or $17.36 Concession (or free Seniors travel vouchers could be used). Myki cards are used on this route - paper tickets cannot be purchased. VICTORIAN GOLDFIELDS RAILWAY (VGR) RETURN FARES: there will be a 15% discount on the prices shown below if our group has 10 or more attendees, or 25% discount if there are 20 or more in the group. You will initially be charged the full amount of the selected fare, but will receive a cash refund on the day (less booking fee charges) based on the size of the group. EXCURSION - FULL FARE: $50 return EXCURSION - CONCESSION FARE : $45 return FIRST CLASS - FULL FARE: $70 return (limited availability - book early to avoid disappointment) FIRST CLASS - CONCESSION FARE: $65 return (limited availability - book early to avoid disappointment) FOOD: You will have free time in Maldon to purchase lunch and drinks, and/or browse the olde world shops. You are welcome to BYO lunch though if you wish. Food and snacks can be purchased on the train in First Class only. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. LEADER: Alan D. | Email the Leader if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. Image: Victorian Goldfields Railway    HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Although locked down at home, you can still socialise online with Nomads friends using the Trickster Cards program. Groups of four or six players per game can play 500 online - and with video and sound enabled, it's almost like being in the same room!  If you're new to the 500 card game, but would like to learn about it, check out our 500 Cards Tutorial Notes. For some other ideas of things to do during lockdown, see Socialising Online. GRADE: Social.  BOOKING: Click Get Tickets ASAP. You will be asked to specify your experience level, and we'll attempt to group you on a (virtual) table with others of the same level of proficiency. The sooner you book, the better will be your chances of being well matched! Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm online. You will be sent the link by 6pm on Tuesday 27th July to join a game. 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  

Although locked down at home, you can still socialise online with Nomads friends using the Trickster Cards program. Groups of four or six players per game can play 500 online - and with video and sound enabled, it's almost like being in the same room!  If you're new to the 500 card game, but would like to learn about it, check out our 500 Cards Tutorial Notes. For some other ideas of things to do during lockdown, see Socialising Online. GRADE: Social.  BOOKING: Click Get Tickets ASAP. You will be asked to specify your experience level, and we'll attempt to group you on a (virtual) table with others of the same level of proficiency. The sooner you book, the better will be your chances of being well matched! Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm online. You will be sent the link by 6pm on Saturday 24th July to join a game. 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  

Join fellow Nomads and friends for an online quiz night this Friday - an evening of fun and socialising from the safety, warmth and comfort of your own home! Bring your food and drinks and get ready for two hours of socialising online. Play in teams as you try and outsmart your opponents with a Trivia Game. We'll show you photos taken from past Nomads events, and you have to try and guess the location by selecting answers from Zoom Poll options. Participate in a game of guess that song! - Choose your music decade and form groups from the 60's, 70's, and 80's, as you work in teams to guess the song and artist. But be quick, the songs are played for a few seconds and there are 18 in total.  You will need all your skills as master consultants for your team to score the most points! Play starts at 7pm when everyone will be placed into teams. Ensure you register for this event in order to receive an email with your link to join on the night! We will be using the online Zoom program and some specialised gaming software to run the event. TO BOOK: Click Get Tickets, preferably by midday on Friday 23rd July so you get an invitation email on the day with your link to join the game. If you haven't used Zoom before, be sure to register for a FREE Zoom account prior. See: zoom.us/freesignup TO PLAY: At 7pm on Friday 23rd July, click on the Zoom link in your invitation email. (Tip: add a reminder in your phone)! Once you've joined, sit back and relax. Your quiz and game master will run all the behind-the-scenes work. LEADER: Jason T. | Email LeaderJasonT.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  

Although locked down at home, you can still socialise online with Nomads friends using the Trickster Cards program. Groups of four or six players per game can play 500 online - and with video and sound enabled, it's almost like being in the same room!  If you're new to the 500 card game, but would like to learn about it, check out our 500 Cards Tutorial Notes. For some other ideas of things to do during lockdown, see Socialising Online. GRADE: Social.  BOOKING: Click Get Tickets ASAP. You will be asked to specify your experience level, and we'll attempt to group you on a (virtual) table with others of the same level of proficiency. The sooner you book, the better will be your chances of being well matched! Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm online. You will be sent the link by 6pm on Saturday 17th July to join a game. 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  

** This event has been cancelled due to the lockdown beginning on 16 July ** This is a chance to experience snow camping in relative civilisation. We will be camping near JB Hut, about 2 km west of the Dinner Plain village, and just off the Omeo to Mt Hotham Road, about 12 km south-east of the Mt Hotham alpine resort. ** Limit of 12 participants ** GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium grade. Snow-camping experience is not required, but previous other camping experience, and possession of good quality camping equipment for the weekend, are both essential. The main daytime activity will be cross-country skiing; if you wish to participate in this, previous cross-country skiing experience is highly recommended. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: A chance to safely test your alpine survival skills and to go cross-country skiing; the details of which will depend on the experience of the group. There is excellent beginner terrain in the vicinity of JB Hut and Dinner Plain, and more challenging terrain further up the mountain. You can access this event by public transport, or a combination of car and public transport. If only using public transport, you will need to leave Melbourne on Thursday and return on Monday - see PUBLIC TRANSPORT for details. BOOKING: By Wednesday 14th July. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210717: Dinner Plain Snow Camping. CANCELLATION CONDITIONS: JB Hut is at 1600m elevation, about 200m lower than the Mt Hotham alpine resort, and typically has snow cover for part of winter only. If the snow cover will be inadequate for cross-country skiing on that weekend, this trip will be cancelled. The final decision on this will be made on Tuesday 13 July 2021, and the decision will be based on the Dinner Plain snow report for that day, plus the weather forecast for the next five days. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10am Saturday 17 July at JB Hut, 2 km west of the Dinner Plain village. There is an optional extra day on Friday 16 July, but if travelling to the location by public transport, it will be necessary to arrive on this day, as there are no V/Line buses between Bright and Mt Hotham on Saturdays. It is generally possible to be dropped off, upon request, at JB Hut (rather than at the Dinner Plain village, 2 km further on). If so, there will still be a 200m walk-in from the road.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X922 grid H11 | Google map goo.gl/maps/YCgnWaxzn7DBAsAS9.  TRAVELLING BY CAR:  RECOMMENDED ROUTE: Melbourne to Dinner Plain, via Omeo, is 445 km, 5 hours 40 minutes. If you are travelling from Melbourne late on Friday, and will be arriving at night, staying at Omeo overnight on the Friday is suggested – this allows you to travel up to the snowline in daylight. ALTERNATIVE ROUTE (NOT RECOMMENDED): Melbourne to Dinner Plain, via Bright and Mt Hotham, is 388 km, 5 hours 30 minutes. This route is not recommended in winter for self-driving, unless you are experienced in driving on snow and ice, including in fitting of chains. You may also choose to leave your car in Bright (on the Friday) and catch a bus for the remainder of the journey - see PUBLIC TRANSPORT below.  NOTE: If you drive, overnight camping will involve parking on the side of the Mt Hotham road, and a 200m walk-in.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Melbourne to Bright, via V/Line (approximately 4 hours 30 minutes) PLUS Bright to Dinner Plain, via V/Line (approximately 3 hours). NOTE: The alpine service generally does NOT connect with the Melbourne to Bright (and return) V/Line service, and so it will probably be necessary to stay overnight in Bright on the Thursday and Sunday nights. Thursday Service - Melbourne to Bright (train to Wangaratta + coach to Bright): depart Southern Cross 9:26am - arrive Bright 3:50pm depart Southern Cross 12:05pm - arrive Bright 4:33pm depart Southern Cross 6:02pm - arrive Bright 10:29pm Friday Alpine Service: The bus leaves the Bright V/Line stop (outside the Alpine Hotel, Anderson St, Bright) at 7:15am (recommended to catch this) or at 3:30pm. If you catch the afternoon service, you will arrive at Dinner Plain/JB hut at night, and so will be setting up camp in the dark, which is NOT recommended. Sunday Alpine Service: The return service leaves Dinner Plain village at 5pm on Sunday, and arrives at Bright at 7:10pm. Note that it may not be possible, when travelling in this direction, to be picked up by the bus at JB Hut (you may need to walk 2 km to the Dinner Plain village).  Monday Service - Bright to Melbourne (coach to Wangaratta + train to Melbourne): depart Bright 6:14am - arrive Southern Cross 10:35am depart Bright 11:54am - arrive Southern Cross 4:40pm depart Bright 2:08pm - arrive Southern Cross 9:45pm FOOD: You will need to carry all food supplies for your time on the mountain. The leader will give you further advice regarding food after you have registered. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Warm clothing (at least two changes), beanie, gloves and a waterproof outer layer (jacket and pants) are essential. For cross-country skiing, wearing three or four thin-ish layers of clothing works best for thermal insulation and avoiding over-heating while on the move. Your waterproof outer layer should be a “shell”, rather than an insulated garment. LEADER: Paul W. | Email LeaderPaulW.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  

The annual Nomads dinner, this year at the Charm Thai restaurant in Albert Park, is the largest social event on the Nomads calendar, and likely to be even larger than normal after it had to be cancelled due to COVID-19 last year. Not to be missed! ** This event has been rescheduled to Sunday 11th July at 6:30pm since it couldn't proceed as planned on 20th June due to the COVID-19 restrictions in place at that time. All original bookings were automatically transferred to the new date. Those who had booked for 20th June and are unable to attend on the later date have received a refund, so a couple of tickets are available. Once no more meal tickets are available, please get a (free) Waiting List ticket if you're interested in attending. ** GRADE: Social.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Join us for our annual Winter Solstice Dinner, the largest annual social event on the Nomads calendar. Licensed and BYO (wine only). The meal is a three course set menu. The mild hotness option has been chosen. The mild option is VERY mild. There are meat and vegetarian options. If there are any other dietary requirements please contact Greg directly. BOOKING: Some cancelled spots currently available. Once they are snapped up, click on Get Tickets to obtain a waiting list ticket. Please specify when booking if you want the vegetarian option, or if you have any other dietary needs. Not sure if you've booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: facebook.com/charmthaialbertpark or Trip Advisor. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 6:30pm at the Charm Thai Restaurant, 173 Victoria Ave, Albert Park.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 57 grid D5 | Google map goo.gl/maps/LrUEmV9H7mKVMJfs9.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 5 km, 15 minutes. TRANSPORT: Tram #1 (South Melbourne Beach) to the Terminus OR tram #96 to stop 128 (Albert Park Station) and walk 15 minutes along Victoria Avenue. COST: $40. Drinks extra, or BYO (wine only, $5 corkage fee per bottle, in cash). LEADER: Greg W. | Email LeaderGregW.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  

Bay views and beaches feature in this walk with many points of interest to enjoy along the way including Red Bluff Lookout and Ricketts Point Marine Sanctuary. Meet front carriage on Sandringham train, departing Flinders Street at 10.17am. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: A moderate 12 km point-to-point walk with public transport links. The walk includes some short steep paths and steps as we cross between beaches and cliff tops.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Our walk commences at Sandringham Station with just a short stroll to reach the bay. The first section of the walk includes cliff top views as we walk along the sandy clifftop tracks of the coastal reserves. There will be a coffee stop (optional) at Black Rock Jetty and lunch will probably be at Ricketts Point. As the walk progresses, we’ll also walk along beaches and beachside paths. Some steps and short steep paths will be encountered as we move between beaches and cliff tops. We’ll walk through to Mordialloc passing through the beaches of Beaumaris, Mentone and Parkdale, stopping for final refreshments at the Parkdale Beach Cafe, a pleasant location with great beachside views, about 15 minutes prior to our destination at Mordialloc Station.  Our walk finishes at Mordialloc Railway Station. Trains depart Mordialloc Railway Station every 10 minutes for the 53 minute journey back to the city. BOOKING: By Friday 9th July. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've booked already? Click View my bookings to check. NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210711: Bayside Walk From Sandringham to Mordialloc. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:47am at Sandringham Station. The Sandringham train departing Flinders Street Station at 10:17am arrives at Sandringham Station at 10:47am, or meet the group en route by arrangement with the event leader. We'll travel in the front carriage. The walk commences at Sandringham Station at 10:47am.  MAP REFERENCE: Sandringham Station: Melway map 76 grid F6 | Google map goo.gl/maps/bC4Rovn2TDT2.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Access to and from this walk is by public transport. We will travel to Sandringham Station in the front carriage of the Sandringham train departing from platform 8 at Flinders Street Station at 10:17am, or you may choose to meet the group en route by arrangement with the event leader. For the return journey trains depart Mordialloc Station every 10 minutes. COST: All travel is within Myki zones 1 & 2 with weekend daily caps of $6.50 full fare, $3.25 concession and free for seniors or those holding a Myki Pass. FOOD: Pack food for lunch and snacks plus adequate drinking water.  APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Wear a hat and clothing to meet the forecast weather conditions and footwear suitable for walking along concrete, asphalt and sandy paths. Be sure to include a wind-proof layer. LEADER: Michael C. | Email LeaderMichaelC.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: satterley.com.au.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

*** No further tickets are available *** Join us for a fun evening of nude 10 pin bowling at a location in the Eastern Suburbs of Melbourne. We have hired the whole venue and therefore have exclusive use. The event is open to Nomads members and visitors. Ticket holders will receive address details of the venue by the Wednesday prior to the bowling night. We are only able to share the venue details, including the suburb, with confirmed ticket holders. 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. CovidSafe procedures apply including QR Code for contact tracing. 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 Tuesday 6th July 2021. To register, click on Get Tickets. Tickets are likely to 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. Tickets are limited due to CovidSafe requirements of the venue. No refunds on tickets will be available in the 24 hours prior to the event except for inability to attend due to Coronavirus restrictions, or if the event is cancelled by the Event Leader.   View my bookings (log in required). MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7.30pm at the entrance to the venue, ticket holders will receive address details by Wednesday 7th July. 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 15-20min walk. More precise public transport details will be provided to ticket holders by Wednesday 7th July. 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 most 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  

Our quarterly planning night, in conjunction with the regular monthly social night - this month at the Palace Hotel, Camberwell. You can attend online via Zoom if you wish. GRADE: Social.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: 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 something apart from the regular walks? Come along to the planning meeting, and then stay for our monthly social evening where members talk about upcoming events, share a meal and compare notes on past activities. All members are welcome – you don't have to volunteer for an activity. New members are especially invited to this meeting as an orientation to Nomads activities. BOOKING: By Monday 5th July. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unable to be there in person? You can attend online via Zoom - just select the Online via Zoom attendance mode when you get your ticket, and you'll be emailed the Zoom link on Tuesday afternoon. View my bookings (log in required). MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm at the Palace Hotel, 893 Burke Rd, Camberwell.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 45 grid J11 | Google map goo.gl/maps/85UV6q3hQyLZAKBs7. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Lilydale, Belgrave or Alamein Line to Camberwell, tram 72 to stop 64 (or tram 70 or 75 to stop 40 + 10 minute walk). LEADER: Garry O. | 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  

This event will be running as planned! Note: This event will cater for a maximum of 20 walkers only, so book in early. This event may be postponed if the weather is wet due to the safety and conditions of the walking tracks. Enjoy a scenic day exploring the Plenty River and Plenty Gorge parklands where hikers can enjoy the rugged views, explore the many lookouts and enjoy the wildlife to offer on a full day's excursion through some untouched areas of suburban Melbourne. The gorge is usually full of bird song and the surrounding park is a safe haven for the local mob of kangaroos and other wildlife. A number of views will be had at serveral lookouts along the trail. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate, approximately 14km, circuit walk, a mixture of flat and moderate inclinations in parts with some step declinations on the return trail.   ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION:  Our hike begins at Greensborough station where will take up the Plenty River trail as we follow the river northwesterly. After passing through Partingtons Flat, we hug the river for over 3 km as we examine the old Maroondah Aqueduct system before we make our way into Plenty Valley Gorge via Dry Creek.  Traversing the maze of bike tracks we make our way to the popular Blue Lake where we will stop for lunch and explore the area and take photos. On the return leg, we work through the gorge tracks before stopping for views at the Diamond Hills Reserve. We then traverse our way through the back trails of the Greensborough neighborhood returning to the train station. Plenty Gorge Park offers a wide range of natural and cultural experiences only 20 km from Melbourne, where the spectacular gorge sets a backdrop for stunning landscape views and the abundant native wildlife are always on show. Walk the tracks to the beautiful gorge and marvel at the diverse wildlife living within the park. Shaped by volcanic activity, the Plenty River is a dividing line between two distinct geological types. The basalt on the west and sedimentary rock on the eastern side generate a wonderful diversity of habitats. This is intended to be a public transport friendly event where the start and end points will be accessible by train. BOOKING: By Friday 2nd July. To register, click on Get Tickets. NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210704: Plenty River Walk: Greensborough to Plenty Gorge Circuit. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:45am | Greensborough Railway Station (Corner of Poulter Ave and Pope Pl) on the northeast side of the station adjacent to the Poulter Ave Reserve. We will wait for those catching the 9:58am train from Flinders St that arrives at 10:45am for a prompt starting walk time of 11am. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 20 grid K2 | Google map goo.gl/maps/MozCnACyn7oBDmR38. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Take the Hurstbridge line train that departs from Flinders Street platform 1 at 9:58am and arrives at Greensborough Station at 10:45am.  We will wait for those on this train before leaving for the walk! (Trains depart from Greensborough for the return journey every 20 minutes). FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and at least 1 litre of water. You may also want to carry a jacket that you can remove until the winter sun warms you up  Sunscreen and a hat, your facemask and hand sanitiser are encouraged. For those taking public transport you will need your Myki card.  Please take away your rubbish afterwards. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Dress according to the weather forecast, the event will not run if showers are predicted.  Comfortable walking/hiking boots are required.  Ensure your shoes are waterproof as some of the paths may be wet or muddy if it has rained prior to the event. Expect to get a little mud on your boots. LEADER: Jason T. | Email LeaderJasonT.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions regarding this event. 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 relaxing urban bike ride around the Capital City Trail, which encircles Melbourne's CBD. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium, 30 km cycling circuit on flat paths, or Moderate 19 km if exiting at the lunch point.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The ride starts from the Birrarung Marr bike parking, between Federation Square and the river, and follows the Capital City Trail comprising the Main Yarra Trail, Inner Circle Rail Trail, Moonee Ponds Creek Trail and Docklands Trail in an anticlockwise direction, with lunch at the Great Northern Hotel, 644 Rathdowne St, Carlton North. After lunch we continue around the Capital City Trail back to the starting point, or whatever point you decide to exit. There are many train station exit points, and connections to many other cycling trails. BOOKING: By Saturday 26th June. To register, click on Get Tickets. View my bookings (log in required). NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210627: Capital City Trail Cycling. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am departure from the Birrarung Marr Bike Parking, located on the upper level beside the river on Birrarung Marr (between Swanston St and the MCG, and between the river and the Federation Square Car Park). This is pictured above - photo taken from the Birrarung Marr Bike Parking, looking towards Flinders Street Station. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X893 grid J10 | Google map goo.gl/maps/QYhwgWKdck2v3qeRA.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Any train to Flinders Street Station. FOOD: View the menu for the Great Northern Hotel. They offer a $28 Sunday Roast special plus a good selection of pub fare. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: In addition to your bike and helmet, bring a face mask and warm layers (scarf and gloves recommended also), including a waterproof layer if the forecast indicates a chance of rain. LEADER: Alan D. | 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  

20/06/2021 UPDATE:  This event is scheduled to run as intended next weekend running under the current Vic Gov Covid19 restrictions and regulations (unless increased restrictions are announced prior to the event).  An update will be provided on Wednesday 22nd June if the government changes its restrictions during the week.  At this stage, we are anticipating it running as planned using the venue's Covid Safety Plan.  CosmeX is an acronym for Clothing Optional Swim Massage Exchange. Events are run at Laverton, usually twice a month, at the Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre. You can enjoy a relaxed evening socialising in the spa, heated pool, sauna, or with a massage. The pool is a 6 lane 20-metre lap pool, and you will be able to do laps, exercise or partake in organised games in the pool. There will be a massage workshop, where you can learn and practice a relaxation massage technique. This is a non-sexual social event. Join in whatever activities and level of undress you choose.   TYPE: Social. Some people just relax and socialise in the spa, sauna, and pool. Others do laps or partake in a massage exchange.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Join our friends at CosmeX on a special combined night at the Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre. If you are new to the CosmeX, you will be welcomed with an induction to the facility and some guidelines to follow so that all can enjoy the facilities.   There will be eight massage tables available to use throughout the night. At 7:15pm there will be a free massage workshop where Steve will demonstrate a relaxation massage technique, which you can then practice with guidance. Massage oil is provided, but you must use a towel that is large enough to cover the table. Allergy warning: massage oil provided may contain nuts.  CosmeX is an all-inclusive event. All are welcome. You can choose whatever level of undress you are comfortable with. The rules of public society also apply at CosmeX. Inappropriate behavior in any part of the complex by anyone, and the taking of photographs, will not be tolerated.   BOOKING: By Thursday 24th June. To register, click on Get Tickets. View my bookings (log in required). FURTHER INFORMATION: Please check out their website at: cosmexmelbourne.com for more information. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 6:00pm at Laverton Swim and Fitness Centre, Jennings St, Laverton.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Approximately 20 km, 15 minutes. Due to roadworks on the Westgate Freeway, time from Melbourne CBD may be longer.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Laverton train station is 1 km from the venue. If you walk along Maher Rd, and Watts St, you can cut across McCormack Park to the swim centre. To get back to the station afterwards, someone may be able to give you a lift - just ask one of the organisers.  FOOD: There is to be no sharing of food for this event, however you can bring your own food. Bring your own non-alcoholic drinks (no glass due to safety considerations around the pool). Tea, coffee and water are supplied.  COST: $15 for Nomads members and visitors alike. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Bring two or more towels, one to dry yourself and another to sit on and use for massage. Thongs and a small bag to keep your belongings would also be useful. Swimwear if you choose. Please do not bring valuables to the venue.  COVID SAFETY: You will be required to log in at the venue via QR code or by providing your name and phone number. Social Distancing is still required, and there are limits in the spa and sauna. Hands must be sanitised before and after giving a massage.   LEADER: Jason T. | 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            

The circuit involves a small twisting gorge, a historic reservoir and four scenic lookouts.  ** Thanks to eased government restrictions, this event IS PROCEEDING. Limit of 20 participants. ** GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate, approximately 11 km, 4 hour circuit walk.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The walk follows a circuit ending back at the meeting point. We will have a picnic lunch on the way.  BOOKING: This event is now full.  Sorry. Get Tickets. View my bookings. NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210620: Brisbane Ranges - Ted Errey Circuit. FURTHER INFORMATION: www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/brisbane-ranges-national-park. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10am at the Anakie Gorge Picnic Area. Follow the Western Freeway to Bacchus Marsh and then follow the Geelong Road (C704) south for 27 km. Turn right into Granite Rd and follow it to the end to Staughton Vale Rd. Turn right and after 2 km, turn left into Gorge Rd and continue to the Anakie Gorge picnic area. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X911 grid E3 | Google map goo.gl/maps/zriEJwpmpXktFauCA.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 83 km | 1 hour 10 minutes. FOOD: Bring lunch, snacks and water (nothing substantial enough to spoil your appetite for the Winter Solstice Dinner). APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Dress for the occasion. Bring warm clothing if needed and certainly bring wet weather gear in case inclement weather is forecast. Sunscreen, sunglasses and hat may be needed. Sturdy walking footwear. 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. Image: www.parks.vic.gov.au    HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Take a train journey out west for a wintertime wander around Bacchus Marsh. ** Thanks to eased government restrictions, this event IS PROCEEDING. Limit of 20 participants. ** GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy, approximately 9 km circuit walk on sealed and unsealed footpaths (with optional shortcuts to reduce the total distance).  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: It’s wintertime and it’s cold, so let’s rug up and head off to do Bacchus Marsh by train and on foot. This is a relatively short and easy walk with shorter options for anyone who chooses. The Werribee River flows between the township and the railway line and we’ll take a wander along the foot tracks alongside the river. From Bacchus Marsh Station our walk takes us westwards through Maddingly Park diagonally to the main road and bridge, taking us left (station side of river) along the picturesque track along the Werribee River upstream to the next bridge crossing, returning along the opposite side of the river to arrive at approximately noon at our luncheon stop (undercover benches in the park) for a 40 minute break. Afterwards, for the second loop we head back across the main road and bridge to start a loop in an easterly direction along the Weribee River, passing some market gardens, to the end of the track at Frisken St. Following this street northwards, we skirt the town as far as Mason Lane Reserve with stunning views over the countryside, returning through interesting township main streets with a coffee break/food opportunities before continuing back to the station (30 minute walk from town centre) in time to catch a Ballarat train back to Melbourne. BOOKING: By Thursday 17th June. To register, click on Get Tickets. View my bookings. NOMADS COVIDSAFE CHECKLIST: Checklist 210619: Bacchus Marsh by Train and on Foot. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10am at Southern Cross Station to catch the 10:14am Wendouree (Ballarat) train, or 10:58am at Bacchus Marsh Station.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X911 grid F2 | Google map goo.gl/maps/q9Cjr3Nhb3xoiskB6.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 57 km, approximately 55 minutes to drive via the M8 freeway, or 44 minutes by train from Southern Cross Station. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The group will meet at Southern Cross Station to travel in the front carriage of the Wendouree train departing Southern Cross at 10:14am, arriving at Bacchus Marsh at 10:58am. For the return to Southern Cross Station, the 2:56pm service from Bacchus Marsh arrives at 3:48pm, or the 3:56pm service arrives at 4:48pm. All travel is within Myki zones 1 & 2 with weekend daily caps of $6.50 full fare, $3.25 concession and free for seniors. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and drinking water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. LEADER: Michael C. | Email LeaderMichaelC.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