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. An AGM Information Pack will be distributed electronically to all (then) Full Financial Members prior to the meeting. After this, please stay for a meal or for socialising. 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 Sunday 3rd May. To register your intention to attend, click on Get Tickets. BOOKING YOUR MEAL: A link will be provided in an email sent to those who have registered, a little before the event, to enable you to book your meal online. Your meal will 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 to attend? 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: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/fcYyNFW8JKaV7gk8A.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The tram route #1 terminus is right outside the hotel. LEADER: Garry O. | Email LeaderGarryO@nomads.org.au 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  

Sunday morning fitness ride from Fed Square to Hampton/Black Rock and return. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Approx 29 km one way and various distances on the return. Mainly flat. The route includes city paths, bike trails and some road riding. Riders returning to Flinders street will ride approximately 50+ kilometers, depending on their route back to the city. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This is an activity to trial a Sunday morning ride from the city to Hampton or Black Rock return. The ride will focus on steady riding to improve fitness. It will include one coffee stop on the return section and will aim to be fully concluded by late morning. The ride will include bicycle paths and some roads. In sections, riders will have the choice to ride on the road or on designated bicycle paths (Port Melbourne - Black Rock). We will take the path beside the Yarra River to Docklands, link to Lorimer Street then proceed through Westgate Park to Port Melbourne. We will take bike paths along the Port Melbourne foreshore to Beaconsfield Pde. At this point, riders can choose to follow the Bay Trail or road-ride to Black Rock. At Black Rock Clock Tower, after a short 5-10 min drink break we will begin our return journey, stopping for coffee somewhere along the way - choices include Hampton, Brighton, St Kilda, or Albert Park. From the coffee stop riders will choose the most convenient route home via the city, southern suburbs, west, east or north.  Note: If the trip to the Clock Tower is too lengthy we could turn around at Hampton. We will see how long the ride takes to complete.  If the weather forecast is very poor, such as heavy rain or wind gusts, a cancellation email will be sent on Saturday evening by 8:30 pm.  BOOKING: By Friday 1st May. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Ride will depart at 8:00am sharp and will not wait for latecomers. Meet at the junction of Swanston St and Birrarung Marr Walk (opposite Flinders Street Station) between 7:50am and 8:00am.  MAP REFERENCES: Meeting Point - Google map: Birarung Marr Walk Ride Route - Google PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Take a train or ride to the start point. Ride or take public transport home from the CBD. Riders needing to opt out on the return could access stations along the Sandringham line.  APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Riding attire and wet weather gear. Carry water, money, phone, puncture kit, rain jacket. LEADER: Bryan S | Email LeaderBryanS@nomads.org.au if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. Photo: Pavel Danilyuk, Pexels.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Explore the enchanting Dandenongs on a 16.5 km hike starting from Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station and ending at Mt Dandenong Hotel, Olinda. Immerse yourself in the Tolkien-like scenery of towering mountain ash and mossy gullies, and visit sights like One Tree Hill and the Doongalla Picnic Ground. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 4: Medium to Hard 16.5 km point-to-point walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System), with public transport access at each end. There is quite a bit of climbing, and descending, on this walk, though there are no prolonged climbs. The total vertical climb is 967 m, and total descent is 588 m. The walk is expected to take at least 6 hours. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Is there a more enchanted forest than the Dandenongs? Tall mountain ash stretch to the sky whilst Gondwana ferns decorate the mossy gullies. With such Tolkien-like scenery, the bushwalker soon becomes convinced that pixies must surely live among the ferns. This hike follows little used trails from Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station to Mt Dandenong Hotel. Mainly on track, with the occasional wombat trail, the route has a total elevation gain of almost a kilometre. Thankfully, not all this elevation comes at once. Rather there's a little uphill, then a little downhill, and so it goes until you reach your destination. On the way there are several sights including One Tree Hill and the Doongalla Picnic Ground, set in an English garden next to an historic homestead. It's probably the most romantic picnic ground you can find. There's also a number of hillbillies who live on the route and if you're lucky to get one talking, you will be spun a yarn about the history of the area. From the end of the walk, a bus will take you back to the start (or to Croydon Station if you prefer) following a charming route that is worth the price of the Myki pass alone. On weekends buses leave hourly. First though, a refreshing beverage at the Mt Dandenong Hotel is strongly recommended.  BOOKING: By Friday 24th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: TrailHiking.com: The Dandenong's Pixie Waltz. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 9:20am at Railway Ave, at the top of the exit ramp (northern) exit of the Upper Ferntree Gully Railway Station (though an earlier start is being considered).  MAP REFERENCE: Google map (starting point): maps.app.goo.gl/H6PaBXCHQGG7dZMD7.  Route Map: TrailHiking.com Dandenongs Pixie Waltz DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 40 km, 1 hour 10 mins by train from Flinders Street Station.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT:  GETTING THERE: Take the Lilydale line train that departs from Flinders Street at 8:06am and change at Ringwood (on the other side of the platform) to the Belgrave line train, arriving in Upper Ferntree Gully at 9:15am. RETURNING: From the Mt Dandenong Hotel take a #688 bus from Ridge Rd/Mt Dandenong Tourist Rd (Olinda) to either Croydon or Belgrave, then catch a train back to the CBD. The bus stop for Upper Ferntree Gully is in front of the Mt Dandenong Hotel, and for Croydon is in front of Kelly's. Potential PT options: Olinda 3:55pm-5:27pm Flinders Street Station via Upper Ferntree Gully and Belgrave line Olinda 4:47pm-6:17pm Flinders Street Station via Croydon and Lilydale line Olinda 4:59pm-6:27pm Flinders Street Station via Upper Ferntree Gully and Belgrave line Olinda 5:45pm-7:17pm Flinders Street Station via Croydon and Lilydale line Olinda 5:54pm-7:36pm Flinders Street Station via Upper Ferntree Gully FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and two litres of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. The Dandenongs are generally cooler than central Melbourne, but you won't be! Wear layers that can easily be added or removed. Bring a waterproof layer if there's any chance of rain. LEADER: Stephan C. | Email LeaderStephanC@nomads.org.au 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 bike ride from Williamstown to Mordialloc, crossing the Yarra River on the Westgate Punt. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium Grade 38.5 km point-to-point cycling, mostly on concrete off-road cycling paths. The distance to the lunch spot (The Brighton Beach Hotel), is 22 km and the Brighton Beach Station is next door if you wish to exit the ride immediately after lunch. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: From the cafe in Williamstown we'll follow the Bay Trail W. to the Westgate Punt pier (just prior to the Westgate Bridge). We'll cross the river on the punt, then cycle through Westgate Park and along the Bay Trail all the way to the Brighton Beach Hotel, 4 Esplanade Ave, Brighton (beside the Brighton Beach railway station), where we'll stop for lunch. After lunch there's the option to exit via the Brighton Beach Station, but the ride will continue along the Bay Trail to Mordialloc, where you can board a Frankston line train to return towards the CBD.  BOOKING: By Friday 17th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am at Tick Tok, 181 Nelson Pl, Williamstown. If you'd like a coffee, you should arrive at the cafe no later than 10am. See Public Transport below. MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/G3Nr9tCviDAMit1S7.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT:  WITH COFFEE: Take the Werribee line service that departs Flinders Street platform 9 at 9:20am, and change to the Williamstown service at Newport (on the same platform), which arrives at Williamstown Station at 9:50am. NO COFFEE: Take the Werribee line service that departs Flinders Street platform 9 at 10am, and change to the Williamstown service at Newport (on the same platform), which arrives at Williamstown Station at 10:30am. Note: To get to the cafe from Williamstown Station, ride along Ann St to the end and turn left into Nelson Place. The cafe is just before the first roundabout. RETURN: Mordialloc Station is on the Frankston line, with trains at least once every 10 minutes. FOOD: Lunch will be purchased at the Brighton Beach Hotel. COST: $5 for the Westgate Punt + lunch cost based on what you order - see menu. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable attire that's suitable for the weather forecast, in addition to your bike and helmet. A spare bike tube is advisable as well as a waterproof layer if any chance of rain is forecast. LEADER: Alan P. | Email LeaderAlanP@nomads.org.au if you have any questions. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. Image: Pavel Danilyuk, Pexels   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Enjoy a stroll in the Dandenongs.  Travel via public transport is an option. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 3: Moderate 13.5 km (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System), although relatively easy within this grade.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This walk is in a pretty part of the Dandenong Ranges. At the start of the walk we will head downhill through the Alfred Nicholas Memorial Gardens and uphill via Sassafras Creek to the Sassafras shops. Here we can eat BYO lunch in the town rotunda, or you can brave the crowds and purchase lunch. After lunch the second part of the walk will be in Sherbrooke Forest to the Sherbrooke Falls and back to the starting point via a boundary fire track. Bring boots and poles if you use them, morning tea and lunch, and appropriate weather gear. There are toilets at the starting point and at the lunch spot. BOOKING: By Thursday 16th April. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:00am at the Ferny Creek Recreation Reserve Hall, Hilton Rd, Ferny Creek.  MAP REFERENCE: Starting Point - Google map: maps.app.goo.gl/AN9iic5g7Sgnn8Lq6 PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Take the 8.06am train from Flinders St station towards Belgrave, disembarking at Upper Ferntree Gully at 9.14am. Take the #688 Croydon bus at 9.19, disembarking at the corner of Hilton Road and Mt Dandenong Tourist Road at 9.33am. Walk to the Ferny Creek Recreation Reserve via Hilton Road, arriving 9.45am. FOOD: BYO lunch or purchase at the Sassafras shops. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. Bring poles too if you usually use them. LEADER: Darren M. | Email LeaderDarrenM@nomads.org.au 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 IS FULL. GET A WAITLIST TICKET IF YOU ARE INTERESTED. A beginners two night/three day hike in the Grampians with stunning views. This is your hike to discover the joy and serenity of escaping from the rat race for a few days. We will assist with what to pack and what to leave behind. We also have some spare equipment if you don't have it all. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 3: Medium, 42 km hike along well established hiking trails (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). There are a few climbs but we will go slowly. We will walk up to 16 km each day. A reasonable level of fitness will make it more enjoyable, but it is also an opportunity to improve your fitness. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We will drive to the Wannon Crossing Campground on Friday night for a good start on Saturday. This campground is car accessible, and is free with no booking required. Saturday morning we need to do a car shuffle, then a 16 km walk to Djardji-kjawara camp site. Day 2 is 9.3 km over Signal Peak and Mt Abrupt to Mud-Dadjug campsite. Day 3 (Monday) is 16.5 km over Sturgeon Peak to Dunkeld and drive home in the evening.  A total of 42 km. Here is the Parks Vic website with a lot of info that will help in planning: Parks Vic Website. If the temperature is forecast to be above 30 deg C we will cancel the trip, as it is hot country. Also possibly a fire risk. The focus of this trip is not to break any records, but rather to enjoy the beautiful scenery, company and joy of camping out.  BOOKING: 1st March - or ASAP! Note that you need to book and pay for your own campsites! Campsite Bookings: You need to book for Djardji-Djawara campsite on Saturday 18th April, and Mud-Dadjung on Sunday 19th April. Book now since campsites do book out (don't wait). That is why we have selected such an early RSVP date. Also if we don't get at least 6 participants we will cancel the trip. Wannon Crossing Campground (Friday 17th April) is free and no booking is required.  Nomads Booking: Please also select Get Tickets here to let the leaders know you are joining the group.  If you are not sure this event is for you, please email one of the leaders (details below) to discuss. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: We will drive to Wannon Crossing campground on Friday night to get a good start on Saturday. This is about 3 hours from Melbourne. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 280 km, approximately 3 hours drive from Melb GPO. I will try and car share. COST: All participants need to book and pay for their own campsites via Parks Vic. Here is the link: Campsite Booking. It costs $53 per night for a camp site on a tent platform (i.e. a total of $106pp). If you share a tent it will cost $53 pp for 2 nights. This includes use of the cooking shelters. If you have one person in the tent it still costs $53 each night. Contact the leader about sharing a platform if you don't know who is going. FOOD | APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: All food for the event will need to be carried in our packs. A suggested packing list, including food requirements, will be sent to those who register. We will share our night meals to make cooking easier. Dont worry if you don't have all the gear as we have a lot of spare, and many items can be shared. LEADER: Stephan C and Roger H. | Email leaderstephanc@nomads.org.au and LeaderRogerH@nomads.org.au (joint leaders) 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 Royal Melbourne Hotel, 629 Bourke St, Melbourne.  GRADE: Social.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Join us for our monthly social evening where members can enjoy a meal, compare notes and float ideas on events they would like to see run, and simply have a chat. 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 – new members are especially invited to any of the monthly Nomads social evenings. See The Royal Melbourne Hotel website for more details, including their menu. Tuesday night is Parma Night - with various types of parma, including vegetarian, plus wine, beer or soft drink for $26. BOOKING: By Sunday 12th April. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm at The Royal Melbourne Hotel, 629 Bourke St, Melbourne. MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/BE48Kp47nuFUWZAZ9. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Royal Melbourne Hotel is located on the corner of Bourke and King Streets, close to Southern Cross Station as well as to the trams on Bourke St, Collins St or Spencer St. LEADER: Alan D. | Email LeaderAlanD@nomads.org.au 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 13th 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: Alan D. | Email LeaderAlanD@nomads.org.au 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

Cycle sections of the Great Southern Rail Trail from Friday to Sunday, staying overnight at a private home in Toora. Toora is a small historic town located on the South Gippsland Highway between Foster and Welshpool. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium grade rides of 30 km, 44 km and 61.5 km on Friday, Saturday and Sunday respectively. Being a rail trail, there are no significant hills. Some previous cycling experience is essential. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This event is limited to eight riders, plus the leader. Four riders will travel by public transport with their bikes to Morwell Station and be picked up from there. The other four riders will need to bring their own vehicles, or share with other drivers, to transport themselves and their bikes to and from Toora. We will ride a separate section of the Great Southern Rail Trail each day - see the Proposed Rides below for details. Upon completion of the Sunday ride, the leader will transport the public transport users back to Morwell Station, and the private transport users will depart from Meeniyan at their leisure. An option to depart Monday is also a possibility, if it suits.  Proposed Rides:      Friday: Toora to Port Welshpool return 11:45am – 4:00pm (30 km total) Saturday: Toora to Fish Creek return 9:am – 2:30pm (44 km total) Sunday: Meeniyan to Korumburra return 9am-3pm (61.5 km total) Optional Additional activities:     Friday afternoon: Walk around Toora township and historic houses or chill at the house. Saturday afternoon: Drive to Mt Best/Agnes Falls or Waratah Bay to walk/swim. Or chill/relax. BOOKING: By Monday 6th April, or ASAP to ensure you don't miss out (limit of 8 riders: 4 x public transport and 4 x private vehicle). To register click on Get Tickets. This event is only open to Nomads Members. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: Toora facilities: Supermarket (with bottle shop), Toora Deli, Pharmacy, Post Office, Wood Fired Pizza, Windmill Cafe. The pub is currently out of action.  MEETING TIME | LOCATION:  Train Users: 9:51am Friday 10 April at Morwell Station. The leader will transfer you and your bikes to the Toora house. Drivers: Arrive at the Toora house Friday morning by 10:30am or Thursday afternoon/evening (9 April). The address of the property in Toora, and instructions for getting there, will be provided to the drivers after they register for the event.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: It is 183 km from Melbourne CBD, approximately 2 hrs 15 mins drive depending on departure time and traffic. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Friday arrival: departure 7:17am from Southern Cross (7:38am from Caulfield), arriving Morwell at 9:22am or, departure 7:39am from Flinders Street (7:52am from Caulfield), arriving Morwell 9:51am Sunday departure: The leader will transfer the four V/Line users from the ride endpoint in Meeniyan to Morwell, from where they can catch a V/Line train to Melbourne: departures from Morwell at 3:54pm, 4:34pm, 5:15pm etc. ACCOMMODATION: The house has 3 double bedrooms which can accommodate singles, partners, or two mates willing to share, a double mattress on the lounge floor (1 or 2), an L-shaped sofa (1, or 2 at a pinch). Additionally, there are two stretcher beds and room for a couple of 2-man tents (BYO) in the back yard. NOTE: Please bring your own sheets & pillowcase or sleeping bag, and towel. FOOD: Dinner Friday night and breakfasts on Saturday and Sunday will be provided at the Toora house. Contribution $20. Lunches Fri, Sat and Sun will be at stops along the rail trail (Port Welshpool, Fish Creek, Korumburra). Saturday dinner will be at Trulli in Meeniyan or at the Foster pub. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Appropriate cycling gear with layers to cater for all contingencies, including a wet weather layer. Plus the usual hat, sunscreen, sunnies and togs/towel if you plan to swim.  Light casual clothing for the evenings. At least one spare tube that fits your bike is essential. LEADER: Bryan S. | Email LeaderBryanS@nomads.org.au 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  

WAITLIST ONLY. CONTACT LEADER. EVENT STARTS FRIDAY MORNING. PLEASE CONTACT LEADER IF YOU WANT TO ARRIVE EARLIER. Enjoy the comfort of a home base, together with day walks and activities in the Yarra Valley. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2 or 3 | Easy/Medium – day walks and other activities (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System).  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We have a private house on an 8 acre farm 2 km out of the town of Healesville. 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 has a hot shower, large kitchen and living areas, wood fired outside spa, and a log fire to warm up if it is cold. There are plenty of flat and protected sites for caravans and tents. The event is limited to 20 participants. Shower and toilet facilities are available in the house. 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 are many eating places in the main street and we will take advantage of them. There are also supermarkets in town so we can buy food for BBQs, or take-aways such as pizza. It's not intended to organise evening meals prior to arriving. Bring your own breakfasts and lunches.  The property is owned by the leader's brother, and there is a small fee of $21 per person to cover costs for 4 nights accommodation. 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 27th March. To register, click on Get Tickets. There is a limit of 20 people, and it is on a first-booked first-served basis. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: Activites we could do include walks around Maroondah Dam, Mt DomDom, Mt Riddell, Badger Creek walk and BBQ, Park Run, Tarawarra Gallery, Historic train trip through the Tunnel, Sylvia Falls, Vineyards, Gin Distillery etc etc.  We might split up into different interest groups each day. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: You can arrive any time after 4pm on Thursday as arranged with the leader. You will be given location details after registering.  MAP REFERENCE: Detailed address will be provided after the RSVP date.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Approximately 80 km. 1 hour 15 mins by car. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: There are public transport options. Catch a suburban train to Lilydale, then a Healesville Sanctuary bus. Get off at the Healesville tourist railway station (2.5 hour journey and all on a Myki card). From there it is a 1 km walk (or phone for a lift). FOOD: Bring supplies for your own breakfast and lunch. We will decide on night meals after we arrive, as there are plenty of options in town. There will be plenty of communal staples provided like coffee, tea, bread, milk, sugar etc.  There is limited fridge space. Consider bringing an esky to keep things cold. Ice is available in town. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Warm waterproof gear and changes of clothing. Summery attire is also likely to be needed. Easter time is unpredictable. Light comfortable walking footwear. ACCOMMODATION: There are a limited number of beds, some floor space, and plenty of tent space in the garden. Bring a sleeping mat and sleeping bag if sleeping inside.  Also bring your own towel. COST: Accommodation charge of $21 (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@nomads.org.au 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  

ConFest (Conference/Festival) is a gathering of people wishing to share talents, skills, ideas, concerns and philosophies in a caring, fun loving and tolerant atmosphere. The presentation of workshops, demonstrations, entertainments and the maintenance of site facilities are all performed by volunteers, monetary payment is neither accepted nor made. The event works with the energy and participation of the people who attend. Everyone is encouraged to get involved and help out where possible. At ConFest, everybody shares the responsibility of making the event as fantastic as possible. For more information please see: ConFest - Australia's leading Alternative Lifestyle Festival ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The Nomads will be present at ConFest and you are welcome to join us at Nudies or Rainbow villages. Email the event leader if you wish to learn more about attending the event as a first timer. There is plenty of information on the ConFest website, including what to bring. The Nomads will run a clothing optional 2-3 hour easy walk on the Sunday. Meet Sun 10am at the information tent. The information boards for 'Nudies' will contain more information. Bring with you a hat, sunscreen, towel, sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. Also advisable to bring 1L of drinking water on the walk. You are welcome to also come along and experience ConFest with friends or even make new friends during your time at ConFest. BOOKING:  Earliest check-in is from Midday on Thursday 2nd, and you must be off-site by Midday Tuesday 7th April. You may book for however many days you wish to be at the festival. To register: NOTE: All ticket purchases are online via website: Confest - Tickets ONLY. (Can be purchased at the gate via online booking, no cash will be accepted at gate!). Photo ID will be requested upon initial entry to ConFest. Please ensure your ticket name matches the name on your identity document. Please have this ready for presentation before you arrive at the scanning point. We will also need your vehicle registration for traffic direction to your booked section onsite. Standard Ticket (16 years of age and over) - $200 + GST + 2 hours volunteer contribution Child Ticket (15 Years old and under) - $10 + GST Vehicle Ticket: - $10 + GST RV Ticket - $20 + GST FURTHER INFORMATION: Important Note: Vehicles Are Restricted From Moving Around The Grounds At Night due to safety reasons. Arriving during the the day allows for ease of setting up your campsite. Please arrive before 7pm otherwise you will be directed to a holding area overnight. You may be able to walk into the ConFest site at night. For more information, please visit the arriving at night page. For more Parking Info Please note that there are no permanent toilets or showers on site. There are outdoor public showers at the Arts village and portable toilets around site. It is a good idea to bring hand sanitiser with you! LOCATION: 7599 Pretty Pine Road, Moulamein NSW MAP REFERENCE: Google map Click here to view the ConFest location on Google Maps. GETTING THERE: Please note the leader will provide information only. There is no car pooling arrangements for this event, please make your own travel arrangements. From Melbourne - via Echuca and Deniliquin 385km Take the M31 from Melbourne (Hume Hwy) and take the exit B75 (Cobb Hwy) to Echuca.  Continue on the B75 to Deniliquin (these are the last shops before ConFest). From Deniliquin follow the B75 north of town and turn left at Pretty Pine towards Moulamein. The festival is around 70km along this road on the left hand side. From Melbourne - via Kerang and Moulamein 373km Take the M79 (Calder Fwy) from Melbourne and continue along the A79 past Bendigo.  Turn right into the C274 towards Serpentine and follow B260 towards Kerang.  From Kerang head to Barham along the C264 and from Barham take Moulamein Rd following signs to Moulamein.  In Moulamein follow signs to Deniliquin, festival site is short drive on the right. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Weekly bus From Swan Hill to Moulamein Wakool Shire office and Swan Hill Visitors Information Centre now have the following information: A bus departs from outside the Swan Hill Visitors Information Centre, in Campbell Street, directly across from the train station, for Moulamein, each Thursday only. Departing at 1.30pm it arrives at Moulamein at 2.30pm, passing by the ConFest site.  It is a private business service and as seating is limited, advance bookings are required. Phone Wayne or Andrea DAVIES on 0431 593 155 to make a reservation and for any further information on the bus service eg when does it depart Moulamein for Swan Hill? Carpooling and Transport Facebook Page Looking for a lift or have one to offer? Visit our carpooling and transport forum section to view and post regarding carpooling and transport to ConFest. You may just find that lift you're looking for or be able to help someone in need. ConFest Rideshare ConFest Transport & Rideshare Please note the Nomads will not be organising carpooling for its members, please make your own arrangements or use the links above to organise your trip. FOOD: Food (Vegan only) and drinks can be purchased at the onsite Market but it is advisable to also bring your own food/drinks/snacks to the event as you would for a 3-4 day camping trip. There is drinking water available all over the site and is very safe to consume. Please note this an alcohol and recreational drug free event. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. A pair of thongs and comfotable shoes during the event. Moulamein can be several degrees hotter than Melbourne during the day and cooler in the evenings. If camping in the forest, bring your usual camping equipment, sleeping bag and warm clothes in the evening. Try to pack light as you will need to walk approx. 1 km from the car park to the camping area. Trolleys are available onsite and there is also a bus to drop you off at certain stops. The Welcome crew can help direct you if using this service. LEADER: Jason T. | Email LeaderJasonT@nomads.org.au 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 Brimbank Park Loop is a 10 km trail located near the airport in Melbourne’s North West, that follows part of the upper Maribyrnong River and Brimbank Park. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2: Moderate, approximately 10 km, circuit walk with a total rise of 150m (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Brimbank Park sits approximately 55 metres below the surrounding western plains. It was first settled by Europeans in the 1830s. The name is thought to have originated from the farmers moving their sheep and cattle 'around the brim of the bank' of the Maribyrnong River. This is a loop walk starting at Green Gully. The route uses a combination of sealed and well maintained gravel paths. There is one short, but fairly steep climb on the walk (70m), plus the ascent out of the valley at the end. A wetlands area has been extensively revegetated. Birds commonly seen in the park include blue wrens, yellow-tailed thornbills, flame robins, parrots and galahs, and a variety of water birds. Residing in the river red gums are brushtail and ringtail possums. You may see a blue-tongued lizard sunbaking, or catch sight of some swamp wallabies. The former Dodd farm is of regional historical significance for its association with the original European settlement and farming of the Maribyrnong Valley. Note: Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a lead at all times. BOOKING: By Friday 27th March. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: visitvictoria.com/regions/melbourne/see-and-do/nature-and-wildlife/national-parks-and-reserves/brimbank-park. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11:00am at the parking area near Green Gully Reserve playground, McCrae Blvd, Keilor Downs, off Green Gully Rd, not the cafe. This is a fairly large parking area, but if sporting events are on, you may have to try surrounding streets. MAP REFERENCE: Google maps goo.gl/maps/AxSpZu2M1GWVwELh6. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 25 km, approximately 30 minutes to drive. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport is possible by train (Metro) via Sunbury Line leaving Town Hall station at 10:04 to Keilor Plains Station, then Bus #421 (St Albans) to Green Gully Rd/Driscolls Rd, about 60 minutes. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and at least 1 litre of water. We will be stopping near the cafe for lunch, if you want to buy something there (but they're slow). APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. Much of the walk is exposed, so wear sunblock and hat. LEADER: Richard C. | Email LeaderRichardC@nomads.org.au 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