A reasonably challenging winter day's hike, mainly following the Plenty River upstream from Greensborough, often with lovely views and interaction with nature, finishing up at Middle Gorge Station. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium to Hard 20 km from point of view of distance with some steep inclines.  Leaders Guide - Appendix A: Activity Grading Guidelines. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: After meeting at Greensborough Station, there will be plenty of hill work, following the Plenty River and Dry Creek upstream, mainly on the eastern side, through semi urban, lifestyle/farm blocks before parkland and bush tracks (alfresco lunch possibly at Plenty Service Reservoir) through some steep Plenty Gorge terrain, crossing Plenty River to climb before making our way through suburbia to Middle Gorge Station for the train back towards the city. BOOKING: By Friday 31st May. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10.30am opposite Greensborough Station (RH side coming up the ramp from the platforms).  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 21 grid A2 | Google map maps.app.goo.gl/zPaN82eAGcrn5cYA9. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 35 km, approximately 45 minutes from CBD. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Hurstbridge line on the 9.39 from Flinders Street Station (usually platform 1) to Greensborough. I will probably board the train front carriage at Fairfield. Later returning to town on the Mernda Line from Middle Gorge Station, trains run approximately every 20 minutes. Bus replacements on both Hurstbridge and Mernda lines possible: I will update closer to the event date if required. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. LEADER: Michael Cowan | 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  

A bike ride beginning at a cafe close to Altona Station, following the Bay via Williamstown to Footscray, then linking to the Capital City Trail to get to lunch at the Great Northern Hotel in Carlton North.  GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: A "gentle medium" grade ride of around 29 km to lunch. There are many train station bailout options if needed. Most surfaces will be sealed and there are no real hills. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We'll depart from The Forestta, 60 Pier Street, Altona at 10:25am. From the cafe we'll ride along the coastal trail, then the Capital City Trail, for lunch at the Great Northern Hotel, 644 Rathdowne St, Carlton North. If the Footscray Road path is closed, after we cross the first Footscray Rd bridge we'll immediately loop under Footscray Road to follow the eastern side of the Maribyrnong River, then take the Dynon Road Trail to link to the Capital City Trail. After lunch, there are many options to either catch a train (e.g. from Rushall, Royal Park, Jewell or Parliament Station) or to cycle home. BOOKING: By 5pm Saturday 25th May. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:25am at The Forestta, 60 Pier Street, Altona. Pier Street is a pedestrian mall outside this cafe, and there will be ample tables either on the street or inside the cafe. MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/bhHu5m486JRzq2169.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT:  If you'd like a pre-ride coffee: Catch the Werribee line train that departs from Flinders Street (usually platform 9 or 10) at 9:27am, arriving at Altona at 9:56am. If you don't want a coffee: Catch the Werribee line train that departs from Flinders Street (usually platform 9 or 10) at 9:47am, arriving at Altona Station at 10:16am. Getting to the cafe: Exit the station via the ramp, then turn left. After a few metres, turn right into Pier Street. The cafe is on the lefthand (CBD) side of the pedestrian mall section of Pier St.  Note: For cycling events, we usually travel in the rear of the rear carriage.  FOOD: Lunch will be purchased at a cafe. You should carry some water, plus snacks if you think you might need those. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable attire for the weather forecast, in addition to your bike and helmet. A spare bike tube is advisable as is a waterproof layer if any chance of rain is forecast. 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 Booked Out. Enjoy a 3 hour train ride to Echuca, paddle steamer cruise and walk the historical port area.  GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy 5 km return walk. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: After our arrival in Echuca we will walk 1.7 km/30 min via the Echuca Wildlife Reserve to the Port of Echuca where we board the PS Canberra, a 110-year-old paddle steamer with a wood-fired steam engine. Enjoy historical commentary, Bar & Kiosk (card only - no cash) for our 1 hour cruise and lunch (BYO). No alcohol to be taken aboard. There are tables available on a first-come basis. On the return to port we can walk to Victoria Park or spend our time in the Port of Echuca before heading back along High St to the station and our trip home. BOOKING: By Friday 17th May. Note that you need to make 3 separate bookings: Nomads Booking: To register to attend, click on Get Tickets.    Paddle Steamer Booking: Book the 1:15pm PS Canberra cruise about a week or so before, once you know that you're going. Train Booking: Get your V/Line ticket (Paper Ticket Only - No Myki) any day online or at your local V/Line ticket office (found under Popular Links on the V/Line home page) for suburban inclusive travel in zones 1 & 2. If you buy online, the email that VLine sends is suitable for any travel on the day of travel only until you can pick up the ticket - unless you pick up beforehand. Note: There are no seat reservations for the train. There are no planned coach replacements. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: Moama-Echuca-Melbourne (vline.com.au); or Murray River Paddlesteamers; or Port of Echuca; or V/Line; or ptv.vic.gov.au MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Southern Cross Railway Station at 0855 for a 0906 Departure. This train is usally fairly full, so to get a prefered seat and seating together, it will be best to get there a little early. MAP REFERENCE: Southern Cross Station: Melway map 2C grid K6 | Google map goo.gl/K4eGX6ViYrXnh8qF9          Echuca Railway Station: Melway map X921 grid F6 | Google map goo.gl/7EGaAQdH18oxVevz5 DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 255 km, approximately 3 hour 15 minutes by train via Bendigo. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Echuca train Departs Southern Cross at 0905 am travelling via Bendigo (10 Min Stop). We will travel in the front car. No refreshments available on the train so byo. The return train Departs Echuca at 405pm, Arriving Southern Cross at 724pm. (12 min stop at Bendigo). Note: If for any reason the train is replaced by a coach, this event will be postponed to another date. FARES: V/Line (paper tickets only - no myki): Return Travel: Full $7.20; Concession/Seniors: $3.60; River Cruise: $33.00 (no discounts). FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes for walking and due to the wooden decks on the cruise. Dress according to the weather forecast. Eucha can be several degrees warmer than Melbourne. LEADER: Paul K. | Email LeaderPaulK.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  

Due to the leader recovering from an operation, this walk has been postponed to a later date. 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  

Enjoy a relaxing stroll beside the picturesque Darebin Creek. Travel via public transport is possible. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate, approximately 12 km, point-to-point walk on mainly flat paths with public transport connections.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Catch a Hurstbridge line train from Flinders St, meeting at 10:30am at leafy Alphington Station (I'll be there to greet and quick takeaway coffee option across the road), for a 10:45(ish) am start to ramble, walking a circuit around greater Alphington Park, before following the Darebin Trail upstream, avoiding cycleways as much as possible, stopping (around midday) for lunch in Northland Mall's food court inside with plenty of food options to choose.  I'll grab as many adjacent free tables as required to enable us to remain/eat together. After lunch we return to the Darebin Creek track upstream, passing under Plenty Rd, and following the trail with a mixture of urban and rural vistas, into Bundoora Parklands concluding the walk at the Bundoora Park Farm Cafe at approximately 3pm for well earned refreshments, and before catching a homeward bound tram in nearby Plenty Road. BOOKING: By Friday 10th May. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am at the Alphington Railway Station for a 10:45am(ish) departure.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 31 grid C10 | Google map goo.gl/maps/6t4kLP8W9HKnaxFJ8.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Hurstbridge line train that departs Flinders Street Station platform 1 at 9:59am arrives at Alphington Station 10:27am with time for a swift and optional takeway coffee across the road.  However, we aim to leave Alphington at 10:45am to begin walking. FOOD: Carry snacks and at least a litre of 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.      

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) 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 Monday 6th 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. 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: Melway map 2J grid H10 | Google map goo.gl/maps/594ZX3oiqidEZrrRA.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The tram route #1 terminus is right outside the hotel. 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  

Join the tall ship "South Passage", Queensland's sail training ship, for a sailing adventure along the Queensland coast.  There are 3 voyages to choose from. We are not filling the entire ship, but rather blending in with other members of the general public. However you would all be working together in Roger's watch. Everyone sleeps in a communal cabin, and there are shared toilet facilities, which is a small discomfort to pay for the experience of sailing in the same manner that Captain Cook did. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: A basic level of fitness and dexterity is required to move around the ship while it is moving. You need a spirit of adventure, and to embrace working as a team to assist sailing the ship. However, no prior sailing experience is required and you will be trained on the job. At times you might have to be awake at night for up to 2 hours to assist in running the ship. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The ship is named South Passage. She is built on the same lines as a New York Pilot Schooner, and has a total length of 30 metres.  Each day we will find a picturesque anchorage, possibly go for a bushwalk, or go snorkelling. We make up the schedule depending on wind conditions and opportunity.  The emphasis is on having a good time and getting a range of experiences – not just hard-core sailing. You will never be bored!  All voyages are 4 days long and cost $920 each including accommodation the night before the voyage. This cost does not include transport to/from the embarkation/disembarkation ports, but includes everything once you are on board including all on-board meals. You need to arrive the day before as we usually have an onshore dinner (not included) the night before departure. South Passage does not have any powered winches, so we rely on your manpower to sweat the lines and do all tasks required to run the ship, in the same manner as the ancient mariners.  Of note, South Passage is a dry ship, and there's no smoking on board. Roger's experience is that you will not miss this since there are so many activities to challenge your senses and keep you occupied. A great chance for a detox. Also no naturism is possible. BOOKING: Bookings are on a first in first served basis. Book and Pay direct to Southpassage through their Rezdy booking application. Follow these links to the booking form: Manly (Brisbane) to Hervey Bay  Manly (Brisbane) to Hervey Bay 7-10 May Hervey Bay to Rosslyn Bay(near Rockhampton) Hervey Bay-Rosslyn Bay 14-17 May Rosslyn Bay to Mackay   Rosslyn Bay to Mackay 21-24 May (you need to select the 21 May departure at "choose your date") Please also click Get Ticket on this page so Roger knows you are planning to attend. However you must also make a reservation and pay a deposit direct to Southpassage (links above). Closer to the event you will be provided with final details and a packing list. FURTHER INFORMATION: southpassage.org.au, the official South Passage website. You will see there are other voyages offered that you can sail on, however the three above are the only ones that Roger is sailing on. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: This depends on which voyage you select. Refer to Southpassage information, or contact LeaderRogerH.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com for exact details. You have to arrive the day before the voyage departs. We have a welcome dinner (around 5pm) the night before to get to know our fellow sailors. The voyage departs promptly the next morning (boats don't wait!!). All sailors need to be on board by 10pm the night before. Dont book flights back to Melbourne before about 8pm on the day of disembarkation as there might be delays. And also to allow time to get to the airport. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: A long way!! Best to fly to/from Queensland. This cost is not included in the voyage cost above. Also, do consider how long it takes to transfer from airport to the port. Roger can advise on the best way to get to the embarkation port. FOOD: All meals are provided on board (but not the welcome dinner the night before departure). All preferences are catered for. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: It is generally balmy. However, if we get some rain it can be cool. A packing list will be 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  

Cycle through box ironbark and yellow gum woodland, and grazing farmland, across the Campaspe River and past Lake Eppalock. Start with a two hour morning train ride from Melbourne to Bendigo, ride 25 km to The Axedale Tavern for a country pub lunch then ride a further 25 km to Heathcote to stay overnight at The Commercial Hotel. Back to Bendigo the same way the next day for the train back to Melbourne. It will be good exercise and good fun! GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium grade cycling of 50 km in each direction on the O'Keefe Rail Trail. This is a well established easy, gravel, rail trail of 50 km each way between Bendigo and Heathcote. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The official ride will start at Bendigo Station at 11am, timed to connect with the train departing from Southern Cross at 9:05am. Due to the limited number of bikes that can be carried on the trains however, some people may wish to: catch an earlier train (departing at 7:40am); or drive to Bendigo; or travel to Bendigo the night before - these options can be selected once the accommodation bookings have been finalised. From Bendigo Station, we'll take Railway Place, then Mollison and Williamson Streets to get to Rosalind Park. From there we follow the Bendigo Creek Trail to just past Weeroona Oval, where the O'Keefe Trail starts. We follow the rail trail for 21 km to get to Axedale, where we'll stop for lunch at the Axedale Tavern. After lunch we rejoin the rail trail to cross the Campaspe River and make our way to Heathcote via Knowsley Forest, the Moorabbee Hill Rest Stop (with views to the Great Dividing Range), Lake Eppalock and Derrinal. A purpose-built causeway and the 90m Mt Ida Creek Bridge allow the trail to stay on the original railway alignment (hence easy riding)! In Heathcote we will stay overnight at the Commercial Hotel. On Sunday, after breakfast at one of the bakeries on the main street, we'll retrace our steps, with lunch once again at the Axedale Tavern, then onward to Bendigo, where we expect to catch the 4:26pm train, arriving back in Melbourne at 6:24pm. There are regular train services departing from Bendigo for Southern Cross. We hope to catch the 4:26pm service but other options depart at 3:26pm, 5:26pm, 7:02pm or 9:00pm. BOOKING: by Thursday 2nd May (or ASAP to ensure you don't miss out). To register, click on Get Tickets to book the ticket type you require: Five rooms have been reserved. Four of the rooms have one SINGLE BED and one DOUBLE BED each. The KING ROOM has a single king size bed. All rooms include an ensuite bathroom. Refer to the room descriptions at the Commercial Hotel. If wanting to share a bed with your partner, book a KING ROOM or DOUBLE BED and specify the name of your partner. That will register both of you to attend the event. If you want sole occupancy of a room (or to share a room with your partner only), you should book the KING ROOM, or else book a DOUBLE BED plus a SINGLE BED. If you have arranged your own accommodation, you can purchase a free OWN ACCOMMODATION ticket, which entitles you to participate in the event without any accommodation being supplied to you. This event is only available to Nomads members. Note: visitors can get a 1-month temporary membership for $8, then click on Get Tickets to purchase their ticket for this weekend. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The entire Bendigo line is within the Myki zone - tickets cannot be pre-purchased, or seats reserved on these services. There is a limit of 6 bikes on most of the Bendigo-line trains, and because of the cheap fares, the trains are often quite full (meaning we potentially won't even be able to fit 6 bikes on a train).  Outbound: Depart SC 7:40am — Arrive Bendigo 9:55am (space for 8 bikes) Outbound: Depart SC 9:05am — Arrive Bendigo 10:57am (space for 6 bikes) Return: Depart Bendigo 3:26pm / 4:26pm / 5:26pm / 7:02pm / 9pm — Arrive SC 5:24pm / 6:24pm / 7:24pm / 9:12pm / 10:59pm (space for 6 bikes on each service except the 7:02pm, which has space for 8 bikes) COSTS: Accommodation: Choose the accommodation type you wish: KING ROOM ($115) — DOUBLE BED in a 2-bed room ($68) — SINGLE BED in a 2-bed room ($58) — OWN ACCOMMODATION (FREE; if you don't require Nomads-supplied accommodation). If you want a solo (non-shared) room, you can either purchase the KING ROOM or purchase a DOUBLE BED plus a SINGLE BED.  V/Line Trains: Public transport to anywhere in Victoria is capped at $7.20 full or $3.60 concession/senior per weekend day.  Meals: lunch will be purchased each day at the Axedale Tavern (see menu), and dinner on Saturday night in Heathcote. Allow for bringing or purchasing additional drinks or snacks if required. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am at Bendigo Railway Station.  MAP REFERENCE: Bendigo Station: Google map: maps.app.goo.gl/RKbDYVWg4SHErDGh8 FOOD: Carry snacks and at least 1 litre of water.  WHAT TO BRING: Sunscreen, insect repellant, sun glasses and dress according to the weather forecast. The hotel supplies towels and linen. Whatever you bring for the two days will need to fit in a panier or back pack. Don't bring too much! Bring waterproof jacket and warm jumper plus neat casual clothes for dinner on Saturday night. Bring a spare bike tube and your tool kit in case of a puncture. Bring front and rear bike lights for safety and night travel if necessary. Make sure your bike is in good working order. LEADER: Kevin K | Email LeaderKevinK.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  

Bookings for this event have reached the limit and are now closed. To join the 'waitlist' please email the Leader. Travel by train or car to Castlemaine, and enjoy a day walk in the historic Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park and your BYO picnic lunch. This walk is also a Castlemaine Pride Festival event and is run in conjunction with the local gay men’s social group, ‘The Alluvians’, so it’s an opportunity to meet Castlemaine LGBTIQA+ bushwalkers too. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium walking - approximately 10 km circuit walk on paths that are at times rocky and steep. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Meeting at 10.31am in the car park of the Castlemaine Railway Station, we introduce ourselves and then car-share with those who have driven from Melbourne or are Castlemaine locals. If insufficient cars, then a Taxi mini bus will be arranged (small shared cost). There are NO lunch shops near the railway station, so you will need to bring your lunch, snacks and water with you. It is about a 15-minute drive to the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park. We leave our cars, admire the ruins of the massive 1887 Garfield Water Wheel, and learn from the information boards the scale of development here.  We commence the walk uphill through the Castlemaine Diggings National Heritage Park and past the remains of many mines, some surprisingly deep. We are heading for the stone-hut ruins of the Welsh Village, and here we will take a break to inspect the remains of a once-thriving community. Continuing to gain height we reach our highest point, the banks of the Expedition Pass Reservoir, the source of water for the waterwheel, and locally known as ‘The Rez’. We will stop for lunch at a suitable spot along the way. The walk is easier now, returning downhill on the easy Forest Creek Track, and at Chinamans Point Road taking the track back to the Garfield Water Wheel.   We leave the Garfield Water Wheel by about 4pm, and we travel back to the Castlemaine Station where some will board the 4.29pm train to arrive at Southern Cross at 6.24pm, and others drive home.  The Castlemaine Pride Festival is from 18th to 28th April – more details available at castlemainepride.org.au. After the walk you may wish to have a cleansing ale at the Loveshack, a Castlemaine microbrewer, who are hosting 'Beers for Queers' and the festival Finale. Other options include travelling to Castlemaine on Friday 26th and enjoy a Queer band at the Taproom (another local micro-brewer, at The Mill) or on Saturday 27th April, enjoy the Q+ Activation in Mechanics Lane all day, explore the town and join in a PubSing also at The Taproom on Saturday evening. Please contact the leader for accommodation options and Castlemaine Pride discounts.   BOOKING: By Thursday 25th April, and indicate if you are driving to Castlemaine Station or travelling by train. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION:  Parks Vic: Heritage Notes for the Quartz Hill Walk and Welsh Village Walk     BendigoRegion.com.au: Castlemaine, Maldon & Surrounds - Outdoors and Nature  MountAlexander.vic.gov.au: Mount Alexander Shire Council - Community events and things to do MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Meeting at Castlemaine Railway Station carpark, (intersection of Templeton and Kennedy Streets) at 10.31am.  NOTE: You need to bring lunch, snacks and water with you to the Station as there are no food shops near the station and we will not be stopping to buy food or drink during our trip from the Station to Garfield Water Wheel.   MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X909 C6 | Google map maps.app.goo.gl/93kAUPqBE8NUKt4r6. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Castlemaine is about 130 km, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by train or 1hr 30 minutes to drive via the Calder Highway, exiting at the marked B180 turnoff to Castlemaine. . PUBLIC TRANSPORT: There is a regular ~ hourly train service from Southern Cross Station to Castlemaine (the Bendigo line) that takes about 1 1/2hr.  To join the walk you should depart Southern Cross Station on the 9.06am Bendigo line train, alighting at Castlemaine about 10.31am. The return train departs Castlemaine at 4.49pm and arrives Southern Cross 18.24pm. There is no need to book a seat, and payment is via MyKi card. Capped fares apply on weekends and public holidays if using myki money - $7:20 Full or $3.60 Concession/Seniors. FOOD: Bring picnic lunch and we suggest you carry snacks and at least 1 litre of water. Note: we will not be stopping in Castlemaine township to buy food or drink. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes, jacket, hat and dress according to the Castlemaine (not Melbourne) weather forecast. Average daily temperatures for Castlemaine in April range from 8 - 21 deg C. You should consult the Castlemaine weather forecast (not Melbourne) a day or two before the event and wear weather appropriate clothing and footwear for walking. LEADER: Ian G. | Email LeaderIanG.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  

An Anzac Day bike ride beginning and ending at Fed Square, but with many options to exit earlier. This ride will be in lieu of the regular Friday Bike Ride. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: This is a medium grade ride of around 34 km, consisting of 29 km to lunch, then a further 5 km back to Fed Square. There's also the option to extend your ride by following the Main Yarra Trail after lunch all the way back to Fed Square (13 km rather than the 5 km direct route that the official ride will follow). There are easy and safe train station bailout options at regular intervals. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: From Fed Square, we will start out along the Main Yarra Trail then follow the Gardiners Creek Trail. We'll take a shortcut via the picturesque, but largely unsealed, Ferndale Trail to join the Anniversary Trail, which we'll follow to Alphington. At Alphington we will rejoin the Main Yarra Trail and ride on that to Abbotsford for lunch at the Convent Bakery. After lunch, we'll return to the CBD via some fairly direct, mostly on-road cycling paths, but you could also follow the Main Yarra Trail all the way back to Fed Square if you want a longer and more scenic ride (that route is approximately 8 km longer). For the route map, see LOOP: Fed Square - Main Yarra - Gardiners Creek - Anniversary - Main Yarra - Fed Square. BOOKING: By 5pm Wednesday 24th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10.30am at the bike hoops on Birrarung Marr, beside Federation Square. (The photo is taken at the meeting point). The bike hoops are located on Birrarung Marr, between Swanston Street and the MCG and between the river and the Federation Square Car Park. This is on the intermediate level - not the path right beside the river, and not the level of the main part of Federation Square. If you'd like a coffee, please get one (e.g. from Flinders Street Station) on your way to the meeting point. MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/2xf6BuWahg6M61LJA.  FOOD: Lunch will be purchased at the Convent Bakery. You should carry some water, plus snacks if you think you might need those. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable attire for the weather forecast, in addition to your bike and helmet. A spare bike tube is advisable as is a waterproof layer if any chance of rain is forecast. 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. Photo: by Peter F — 2022 Midsumma Cycling Event   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Bookings are essential for this event. Please note this event is for naturists. The next Nudemanfest will be held on Thursday 25th April to Sunday 28th April 2024. Four days of fun and hospitality camping at Nudemanfest. Whilst the heat of summer has now passed you can be assured of pleasant weather, peaceful and tranquil surroundings, and great hospitality. Bring along old friends and make new friendships with like minded guys. Cost is still at a very reasonable $50 per day. Showers, flushing toilets, bbq and fridge are provided. Please bring along a tent, bedding food and drinks and an esky if possible. These are great opportunities to camp in a beautiful secluded location, get close to nature and live nude. There are no special prizes for being naked and cold so if the weather requires it clothing can be worn to keep ourselves warm. Sitting around the communal camp fire looking into the night sky vault is indeed very pleasant. Bush walks during the day or meandering along the river are great ways to pass the time This is a great way to spend Anzac Day long weekend away from the noise and bustle of the city During the event, your Nomads leader will assist to organise:  Assist with any questions regarding the event and booking details. Organise a Saturday evening local pub meal (planned) Organise for 1-2 hikes on the property  Plan for a day out at the local King Valley wineries (Subject to interest) Enjoy campfire and hot tub setup Organise for Classic Holden Cars and W Class Tram on site tour with the host Plus much more   GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: There will be one or more hikes on the property during the event. The hikes are generally 2-3 hrs in length and rated Medium to Hard grading. Check Leaders Guide - Appendix A: Activity Grading Guidelines. Campers can opt for a more leisurely hike around the property. BOOKING: Please book by Midday Thursday 25th April if possible as the leader will have limited access to emails after this time. If booking after this time, please email directly to the host on farm_riverview@yahoo.com.au. To register as a Nomads participant, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: This is a camping event. There is no onsite accommodation so please ensure you bring suitable bedding and camping equipment. Evenings will be cool so please ensure you bring something warm to wear and a warm blanket. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: The event starts from 10am Thursday 24th April and runs until Sunday 27th 6pm.  If you have more time off you can stay longer than the 4 days. There is no limit to how long you can stay at Nudemanfest. MAP REFERENCE: Tatong. Please contact the leader upon booking for the exact address to the property. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Tatong is located approx 240 km north east of Melbourne and 23 km southeast of Benalla. Approx 2hrs 40min via Hume Fwy/M31 to Benalla, then follow directions to Tatong taking the C517 Tatong-Tolmie Road to the private property. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Train to Benalla station, then Uber to Tatong. There may be an option for carpooling for this event either from Melbourne or from Benalla Station (requires pre-planning with another participant) prior to the event. The leader may be able to assist but there is no guarantee of finding a suitable partner. FOOD: Bring enough food, snacks and drinks for the time you intend to stay at the property. There will most likely be a group pub meal at the local tavern on Saturday evening. Benalla has supermarkets (about 25min drive away) to purchase supplies before or during the event. There are fridges available on site (or bring an esky) and very limited freezer space. A kitchen with plates and cutlery including a microwave is available. There are also BBQ facilities and campfire cooking options as well. You may also bring a portable gas cooker or electric induction cooking appliance as well. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes if you wish to go hiking. Dress according to the weather forecast (when not naked obviously). Tatong will be very pleasant and sunny during the day but will be several degrees cooler than Melbourne at night with some frost, so bring warm blankets and a sleeping bag for overnight. Hat and sunscreen during the day is still recommended at this time of year. LEADER: Jason T. | Email LeaderJasonT.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com if you have any questions regarding booking and to obtain the address/contact the host directly. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website. HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

A pleasant walk along the Bay Trail West following part of the western shoreline of Port Phillip Bay. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Easy 12.7 km point to point walk on flat paths (shared bike trail). ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: After we arrive at Altona station we will walk to the Rockabye Candy Cafe for morning tea whilst we wait for other Nomads to arrive. At 10:45am we will begin our walk by heading off to Altona Beach where we can walk out along the new 310m Altona Pier (opened Jan 22nd 2024). The old 1800's timber pier was demolished after storm damage. Following the Bay Trail (West) and The Esplanade we soon pass through the Altona Coastal Park and across the Kororoit Creek. We pass the Kororoit Creek Historic Fishing Village, through the Paisley-Challias Wetlands and Domwell's Round. Depending on time and weather, we can stop for a swim at Williamstown Beach and a drink at a kiosk, if open. Continuing on, we can make a detour and visit the Williamstown Botanic Gardens before passing the Fort Gellibrand Rock Pools and passing through the Point Gellibrand Coastal Heritage Park and Lookout. From here we walk along Nelson Place to Gem Pier to catch the 4pm ferry to St Kilda. For anyone returning by train, it is an 800m/11 min walk to the Williamstown Station. BOOKING: By Friday 19th April. You also need to book the ferry service if you wish to take that. NOMADS: To register to attend, click on Get Tickets. FERRY: If planning to catch the ferry, book your ferry ticket at least a few days before this event direct from St Kilda Ferry for the 4:00pm service to St Kilda.  Unsure if you've already booked for this Nomads event? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: ptv.vic.gov.au   St Kilda Ferry   MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10am at Altona Railway Station - if you like breakfast/morning tea or by 10:45 at the Rockabye Candy Cafe, 32-34 Pier Street, with no morning tea (280m/5min walk from the station).  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map 54 grid H11 | Google map goo.gl/NJYifwsM1nEv7ZUx9.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 26 km, 29 minutes by train.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Train Departs Flinders Street at 09:27. Arrives ALTONA at 09:56. (Werribee Line train via Southern Cross) - for Breakfast/Morning Tea. Next service Departs Flinders Street at 09:47, Arrives 10:16 or Depart Flinders Street at 10:07, Arrive 10:36 - No morning tea.  If not taking the ferry option - trains to Flinders Street depart Williamstown Station every 20 minutes at 16, 36 and 56 minutes past the hour (28 minute trip).  FARES: Train - Myki: Full $7.20; Concession $3:60; Seniors Free. St Kilda Ferry: Adult $22.00 Concession $20.00 FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. Drinks and snacks are available on the ferry. Kiosk at Williamstown Beach - if open. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. Maybe bathers and towel if we have time to stop for a swim.  LEADER: Paul K. | Email LeaderPaulK.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 is now fully booked for Overnight Tickets. We have also had to close the Waitlist for Overnight stays as there are still 4 people on the Waitlist. Sorry we can't help you out this time. There are still 3 day-walk tickets available. _________________ This is a weekend and bushwalk for naturists. The walk is of medium difficulty through some fairly untouched and picturesque bushland on a neighbouring farm. As we climb gradually up the hill there are great views into the valley. We then cross into a neighbouring property where the frogs are VERY noisy - Frog Paradise. After that we continue on along an interesting creek, past Cow Swamp to get some more good views on the way back to the cars. If the day is hot we could go for a swim in the waterhole, or if cold, a soak in the hot spa or a warm-up in front of the large open fire. In the evening we will be able to relax with a BBQ dinner, spa, massage, and socialising around an open fire. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium, approx 6 km naturist circuit walk. There will be walking through grassy paddocks, along sheep and kangaroo pads and along private 4WD tracks. The hills are moderate and not that steep. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: SATURDAY WALK: This walk is for naturists. We will meet and unload the cars at the overnight farmhouse anytime between 10.15am and 10:40am. Hot drinks and nibbles will be available until 11.10am. We will then have a briefing for the day around 11.40am and do a short car pool to the start of the walk. Lunch will be eaten at a good spot along the way when we get hungry. After lunch we will continue on for a bit to get more views and then circle around to get back to the cars to return to the farmhouse. If the day is hot we can then go for a nude swim in the lovely Mollison Creek swimming hole, or if cool have a soak in the hot tub. There will be drinks and snacks available at the farmhouse after the walk. It is planned to start the BBQ around 6pm. OVERNIGHT: Optional evening BBQ, overnight, breakfast and lunch at the farmhouse. After the Saturday walk we have been invited back for further naturist socialising at the very comfortable farmhouse with its great open fire. There will also be a spa and massage tables to use. SLEEPING: For those staying overnight, there is floor space for 14 people in the house. There is carpeted floor space in the library, lounge room and dining room - please BYO sleeping bag, sleeping mat/lilo, pillow etc. There is a spare double air mattress, a single air mattress, one spare doona, some blankets, a few sleeping bags and a couple of spare foam sleeping mats at the property. Or if you like, you can put up your tent on the back lawn. There is also room for campervans etc. BBQ: BYO meat and drinks. Basic salads and bread will be supplied. Dinner desserts or morning tea snacks would be appreciated. TOWELS: Please BYO towels, about 3 or 4 of them. 1. for sitting on. 2. for the massage table. 3. for your shower or spa. 4. after swimming. BREAKFAST: Breakfast is supplied, including eggs and bacon, cereal, toast and spreads, tea and coffee, and for Sunday lunch there are always plenty of leftovers from the night before. SUNDAY MORNING SHORT WALK: For those who would like a further walk, we will arrange a short walk either to the Gorge, along picturesque Mollison Creek or elsewhere in the area. This will be followed by lunch to eat up the spare food. BOOKING: By Wednesday 10th April. To register, click on Get Tickets. Choose the ticket that provides the options you wish to participate in. RSVP FOR OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION: If you wish to stay overnight, you will need to SEND AN EMAIL TO COLIN, our farmhouse host, on LeaderColinP.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com to book your accommodation. Please state what accommodation you would like - floor, tent or campervan. Please also include a contact phone number. Sleeping places in the house are limited to 14. The number of people staying overnight is limited to 22 so that we can all sit down to eat inside the house. There is no limit on tents and campervans. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. COST: There are two ticket types available for this event. Please choose the ticket that suits your wishes. 1. Walk & overnight with bbq, spa, massage, breakfast: Nomads members $30 | Non-members $35 2. Walk only: Nomads members $0 | Non-members $5 The cost of the overnight tickets covers the cost of a spa for all those staying overnight. For Day Walkers who would like to use the spa before they leave on the Saturday could you please pay $10 cash to Colin on the day. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Any time between 10.15am and 10.40am at the farmhouse 15 km north of Lancefield. The exact address will be sent by 10am on Thursday 11th April to those who have purchased a ticket. We plan to drive off from the farmhouse at about 11.20am. Tea, coffee and snacks will be provided at the farmhouse on Saturday morning. If you'd like egg and bacon sandwiches/rolls and a latte etc before you arrive at the farmhouse on Saturday morning, the best place to get these would be from a cafe in the towns of Romsey or Lancefield. Sandwiches for Saturday lunch are generally available from the Ampol Petrol Station Foodary in Romsey, 29-31 Main St Romsey. Sandwiches are also available at the Shell Service Station in Lancefield (hiding on the bottom shelf in their fridge), though the Romsey sandwiches are better. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X909/609 grid J7 | Google Map: goo.gl/maps/5tjy71DBz9waYR9a6. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 87 km and 1 hour 15 minutes from the GPO. The farm and the town of Lancefield are due north of Tullamarine Airport. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Catch the 7:48am Metro train from Southern Cross to Sunbury station arriving at 8:32am. At Sunbury catch the 8.50am regional bus to Lancefield, arriving 9.24am at the corner of High St and Main Rd. From there we will need to arrange a ride to the farm for you. It probably would be easier for you to email the leader, Russell, on LeaderRussellW.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com to see if he can arrange a lift for you from Melbourne. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and water for the Saturday naturist walk. BYO meat and drinks for the BBQ on Saturday evening. Sunday breakfast is supplied by our host. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. Wear comfortable walking shoes/boots. A day backpack is useful for carrying your food and water. LEADERS: Russell W. and Colin P | Email LeaderRussellW.thenomadsinc@mail.tidyhq.com or LeaderColinP.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  

Car-based camping in a free camping area at Toorongo Falls Campground, with day walks in the region. Attend from Wednesday (after lunch) to Sunday, or whichever days you can manage within that period. There is a limit of 25 people for this event. Contact the leader if you want to be wait listed. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Varied day walks from a base camp at Toorongo Falls Campground. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This is a picturesque campsite in the bush. It is located inside the National Park. There are BBQs, fire pits, camp sites and toilets. We can light a fire (except during fire ban days). There is limited mobile phone coverage. There are many picturesque day walks to do in the area. You will need to be self sufficient. Drinking water is not available at the campsite but water can be used from the creek for washing and cooking.    BOOKING: By Sunday 7th April. To register, click on Get Tickets.  Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: greatforestnationalpark.com.au/attraction/toorongo-falls-campground. MEETING LOCATION: The campground is accessible with 2WD vehicles from Toorongo Falls Rd. Further details on how to get there will be provided to all registered attendees. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Two hours drive (140 km) from Melbourne. PUBLIC TRANSPORT:  Not available. We will try to maximise car pooling.  MEALS: Bring all supplies, ample drinking water and camping equipment. There is no drinking water on the site, but the creek will be flowing for washing and cooking water.    ACCOMMODATION: Provide your own tent as there are no facilities.  APPAREL: It can be quite warm, or can rain. Come prepared after having a good look at the weather forecast. COST:  Camping is free. 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: Parks Victoria   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 Sunday 7th 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