Join the tall ship "South Passage", Queensland's sail training ship, for a sailing adventure along the Queensland coast.  This is a Sail/Walk voyage with the focus on getting ashore on islands and doing short walks. The Nomads are not filling the entire ship, but rather blending in with other members of the general public. You would be working together to sail the ship. 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. Roger is not going to be onboard for this voyage, but you will be assigned a knowledgable watchleader who will ensure an unforgettable experience. 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 embrace working as a team to assist sailing the ship. However, no prior sailing experience is required and you will will receive training 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 you will find a picturesque anchorage, possibly go for a bushwalk, or go snorkelling. The schedule depends on wind conditions and opportunity.  The emphasis is on having a great time and getting a range of experiences – not just hard-core sailing. You will never be bored!  The voyage costs $2100 and includes 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 meals. You need to arrive 30th May as there is usually 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. 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.  BOOKING: Book and Pay direct to Southpassage through their Rezdy booking application. Follow this link to the booking form: Link to the booking page  Sail Walk 31May to 06 June 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 ($400) direct to Southpassage (link 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 public voyages offered that you can sail on. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: The voyage will start with a dinner (not included) the night before the voyage. Plan to arrive in Townsville on 30th May.  You have to arrive the day before the voyage departs. We have a welcome dinner (around 4pm) 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 on the 30th. Don't 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 the airport to the 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@nomads.org.au if you have any questions.  Roger will not be on the voyage, but can answer any questions you have. 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 along the Darebin and Donaldson Creeks, starting at Alphington and looping back to finish at Darebin Station. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2: moderate 6 km walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Starting at Alphington Railway Station (10:50am), we head north to the Darebin Parklands for a look at the former basalt quarries which supplied stone for local infrastructure, gravel for roads, houses etc and now has several lakes and a bird habitat.  We follow a bike path along Darebin Creek to our lunch spot near Banksia Street.  Heading south along Donaldson Creek we arrive at Rockbeare Park for a rest and the option to have drinks etc at the Ivanhoe Hotel, just a short walk from the Ivanhoe railway station. BOOKING: By Friday 23rd May. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:40am at the Alphington Railway Station for a 10:50am departure.  MAP REFERENCE: Google map goo.gl/maps/6t4kLP8W9HKnaxFJ8.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The Hurstbridge line train that departs Flinders Street Station platform 1 at 10:19am arrives at Alphington Station at 10:47am. We aim to leave Alphington at 10:50am to begin walking, but will wait if the train is delayed. FOOD: Carry snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. LEADER: John T. | Email LeaderJohnT@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  

NOTE: NEW DATE Enjoy a clothed day out walking in the beautiful and spectacular country near Lancefield courtesy of one of our members who has a farm in the area. Meet at the farm for tea, coffee and refreshments before you walk off for the day. Note this is a day event only. We are planning on an optional dinner at the Lost Watering Hole restaurant at the conclusion of the afternoon drinks and nibblies and open fire. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2: Moderate 6 km circuit walk in quite hilly open country. Walking is on 4WD tracks, animal pads and through grassy paddocks (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We will meet at the farm property. Tea, coffee and refreshments will be available when you arrive. After introductions and the briefing for the day, the group will car pool about 2 km on a good gravel road to the start of the walk.  We will stop for lunch at a good spot with a view. After lunch, we continue our exploration of a neighbouring picturesque farm before returning to our cars to drive back to the farmhouse. There you can have tea, coffee, nibbles and a drink while enjoying the lovely open fire before departing for home or optional dinner. BOOKING: By Thursday 15th May. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am at the farm which is 14 km north of Lancefield. The exact address will be sent out on Thursday 15th May to all those who have registered by midnight Wednesday 14th May. MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X909 grid J8 | Google map goo.gl/maps/y5sn4nWk3PpjFjBVA.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 82 km, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to drive. If you are returning home at dusk it is safer to drive at 80 km/h or less and keep an eye out for wombats and kangaroos on the road when driving between the farm and Lancefield and the farm and Kilmore. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport will only get you to Lancefield, 14 km short of the farm. It would be better to see if the Leader can assist you in finding car transport from your suburb. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and water for your day out in the country. If after the walk you'd like cheese, biscuits, nibbles and a drink other than tea or coffee, could you please bring a contribution. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Please dress suitably for the weather forecast for the day. The nearest town to get an appropriate weather forecast is Pyalong, just north of the Great Dividing Range. Wear comfortable walking shoes for walking on 4WD tracks, animal tracks and through the paddocks. Sunhat/beanie, sunglasses could be useful. LEADER: Jason T. | Email Jason at 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  

Join the Nomads for a fun evening rock climbing in a safe environment. This is an indoor event and will go ahead regardless of the weather. The event will follow with dinner nearby at a proposed dumpling restaurant. Indoor Rock Climbing. No experience necessary, just the desire to have fun. You will need to have a minimum level of fitness and not be afraid of heights. We require a minimum group booking size of 10, if you are intending to attend, please book in early. The event will have a maximum booking size of 15 for a more comfortable experience. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Beginners Indoor Rock Climbing, 2 hour session. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Indoor rock climbing, with safety instructions, harness and shoe hire included. Wear clothing appropriate for sports and for the safety of everybody, remove any loose objects that could fall onto people below.  At the conclusion of the event, we will head for dinner at the Shanghai Dumpling House, 23-25 Tattersalls Lane, Melbourne. (Suggested venue subject to change). BOOKING: By 5pm Wednesday 14 May. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 5:45pm at Hardrock Climbing, 4/8 Franklin St, Melbourne CBD (cnr Franklin & Swanston Sts) ready to start being instructed at 6pm.  MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/zNVvYP3owzCc5HeaA.  COST: $27.50 per person, which includes harness, shoes, safety instruction and booking fees. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Trains to Melbourne Central or any Swanston Street tram. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: For your safety and well-being, wear clothing appropriate for sports: no short t-shirts and no jewellery or tight jeans. 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  

This interesting, varied walk in the Lerderderg State Park passes an area of grass trees, gold diggings, a water race and views of the Lerderderg Gorge. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 4: Hard 12 km circuit walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). Generally on good tracks but with some steep sections, river crossings and some sections with loose gravel. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The circuit walk involves three river/creek crossings which requires some rock hopping and possibly wet feet when crossing the Lerderderg River. The walk will be cancelled if there has been recent heavy rainfall in the area. There are two quite steep ascents and descents into the Lerderderg River and Whiskey Creek. Most of the circuit is on quite good tracks. There will be sections which will be gravelly and there are some steps. BOOKING: By Friday 9th May. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: bushwalkingvictoria.org.au/item/whiskey-creek-circuit and walkingdroid.com.au/whiskey-creek-lerderderg-state-park. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Meet at 9:30am for a 9:45am start at Square Bottle Track Carpark (The junction of Square Bottle Track and Mt Blackwood Rd) in Greendale. MAP REFERENCE: Google map goo.gl/maps/YdDioaTtEuyw1qTN7. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 78 km, approximately 1 hour 10 minutes from Melbourne CBD by car. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and at least 2 litres of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Strong sturdy walking boots are recommended, and dress according to the weather forecast. Walking poles recommended, particulally for the river/creek crossings where at least one pole would be useful. I have two spare poles if you don't have any.  Note: Please ensure that your boots are clean from any mud or soil so as to keep cinnamon fungus at bay from infecting the grass trees. LEADER: Geoff L. | Email LeaderGeoffL@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  

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 Sunday 4th 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 goo.gl/maps/594ZX3oiqidEZrrRA.  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  

A circuit walk in the northeast of Melbourne, near Bulleen. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2: Easy 7 km circuit walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System).  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This will be an easy walk through the Yarra Valley Parklands and Banksia Park, ending in the grounds of the Heide Museum of Modern Art for a late lunch. Heide is a public art museum and sculpture park located on a stretch of the Yarra River in Melbourne that has long served as a meeting point and as a creative hub. Once a significant Wurundjeri gathering place, the site later attracted the artists of the Australian Impressionist School before becoming the home of art patrons John and Sunday Reed in 1935. The Reeds and their circle of artists and writers, Sidney Nolan, Albert Tucker, Joy Hester, Charles Blackman and Mirka Mora among them, embraced the brave and the new in art and ideas and their spirited legacy inspires the museum’s activities today, from collaborating with emerging and mid-career artists to celebrating those who have made major contributions to Australian and international art. Heide is renowned for its sculpture park. There are over 30 stunning works to discover across the 15-acre site including works by Inge King, Anish Kapoor, Anthony Caro and Neil Taylor. Jeff Thomson’s iconic Cows, 1987, are a playful reminder of the museum’s dairy farm origins.  Admission to the gardens and sculpture park is free, but a visit to the museum costs $20/25.  BOOKING: By Friday 25th April. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am at parking area in the Museum. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Public transport is available by bus, but is not very straightforward. MAP REFERENCE: Google map: maps.app.goo.gl/8EsRTWU6yjP1CqYx8 FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water.  There is a cafe at the museum, but this has yet to be checked out APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots and dress according to the weather forecast.   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  

An Anzac Day bike ride beginning and ending at Fed Square, but with many options to exit earlier.  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 Thursday 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 St 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, which has some conventional cafe fare in addition to their wide range of baked goods. You should carry some water, plus snacks if you think you might need those. 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 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 Peter F — 2022 Midsumma Cycling Event   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Darren is going to lead the bike ride, for a circuit from Essendon to the CBD via Airport West, going to Roasting Warehouse for coffee and brunch! NOTE: booking required by 5pm Thursday 17 April. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Medium grade ride of 35 km to Docklands. It's 11.5 km to the brunch stop, then a further 23.5 km to Southern Cross, making a total of 35 km. For the route map, see Essendon - Airport West - Anglers Tavern - Docklands. There are easy train exit options after brunch via South Kensington, Footscray or Moonee Ponds stations. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: No time for coffee at the station! Instead we ride for 11.5 km to the Roasting Warehouse, 9 Marshall Rd, Airport West for coffee and brunch. We'll cycle via Buckley St, the Moonee Ponds Creek path and a reasonably steep climb up Mascoma St. After coffee, we ride through the wonderful Airport West Green Spine Linear Park, then Steele Creek and the Maribyrnong River trails. We'll ride on to Southern Cross Station via the Maribyrnong River and Footscray Road trails. BOOKING: By 5pm Thursday 17th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: We'll plan to depart at 10am from the east side of Essendon Station, opposite Augustus Gelatery, 13-21 Russell St, Essendon (see Google map). Trains will be running to a Sunday timetable as it is a public holiday. The Craigieburn line train that departs from Flinders Street platform 5 at 9:37am arrives in Essendon at 9:53am. Note: No coffee is envisaged prior to departing - we'll instead stop for coffee and brunch in Airport West! There will not be a lunch stop on this ride - brunch instead. MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/H8t2eg2raMAeFATMA.  FOOD: Brunch will be purchased at the Roasting Warehouse, 9 Marshall Rd, Airport West. 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: 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  

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 1-2 clothing optional 2-3 hour easy walks during the event around the property. Meet Sat/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: By Friday 18th April (although entry to site is across the entire festival period). Earliest check-in is from midday on Thursday 17th, and you must be off-site by midday Tuesday 22nd April. To register: NOTE: There are no ticket sales at the gate. All ticket purchases are online via website: Confest - Tickets ONLY.  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) - $180 + 2 hours volunteer contribution Child Ticket (15 Years old and under) - $10 Vehicle Ticket (includes camper/Popup trailers, vans up to 1 ton, ("Examples Hiace/Sprinter"): Ticket  - $10 Motor Home & Caravan Ticket (includes Vehicle)  - $20 * There are no day or shorter term tickets 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: 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 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 will most likely be an alcohol 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  

BOOKINGS CLOSED-Enjoy the comfort of a home base, together with access to the world class Wilsons Promontory National Park for day walks. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2 or 3 | Easy/Medium – day walks and beach activities.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: We have a private house at Yanakie overlooking Corner Inlet just outside the park entrance. You can come down for as many days as you like. It is quite flexible. There are many nice day walks in the area. We will decide where to walk each day taking into account the condition of the weather and the participants. The house offers a hot shower, comfortable accommodation and a log fire to warm up if it is cold.  Shower and toilet facilities are available in the house. Camping is available on the property. Bed and floor space is limited in the house, so it will be allocated on a needs basis. Alternatively you can look for accommodation close by, but book early as Easter time is busy. There is very limited shopping in the area. Bring your own breakfasts and lunches. On Friday night a BBQ is offered. Bring your own meat/veggie burger and anything you like to accompany that. Saturday and Sunday night meals are provided for a small donation. Roger no longer owns the property, so there is now a small fee of $7 per person, per night (Fri/Sat/Sun) to cover costs. To make things simple it is the same fee whether you camp, or squash into the house. Visitors should take out a Temporary 1 month membership (cost $8) prior to selecting Get Tickets. BOOKING: By Friday 11th April. To register, click on Get Tickets. There is a limit of 30 people, and it is on a first-booked first-served basis. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: www.parks.vic.gov.au/places-to-see/parks/wilsons-promontory-national-park. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: You can arrive any time from Thursday as arranged with the leader. You will be given location details after registering.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway map X928/628 grid C10 | VicRoads map 103 grid D7 | Google map goo.gl/maps/A8fupz5R28HgD9Ec9. Detailed directions will be provided after the RSVP date.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: Approximately 195 km. Yanakie is 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne towards Wilsons Promontory. TRANSPORT: Public transport not available. We will try to maximise car-pooling as parking is limited at the house. FOOD: Bring supplies for your own breakfast and lunch. Communal night meals will be arranged once the numbers are known. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Warm waterproof gear and changes of clothing. Summery attire is also likely to be needed. It might be warm enough to dive into the sea. Light comfortable walking footwear. ACCOMMODATION: There are a limited number of beds, some floor space, and plenty of tent space in the garden. Bring linen and towels or a sleeping bag if sleeping inside. COST: Accommodation charge of $7 per person per night (to be paid when you "Get Tickets"). Free entry to the National Park. Cash donation towards any meals that are provided. LEADER: Roger H. | Email leaderrogerh@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 ride along the 'Gippsland Plains Rail Trail' from Traralgon to Stratford, with an overnight stay in Stratford. Then ride back to Traralgon the following day. ** Limit of 8 attendees ** GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Moderate 126 km return ride. Day 1: 63 km ride, Day 2: 63 km ride. There is the option to exit the ride by train from Stratford, should that become necessary. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This is a two day cycling trip riding along the 'Gippsland Plains Rail Trail' staying at the end of the rail trail in Stratford overnight. Then riding back along the rail trail on Sunday.  Due to difficulty in fitting all our bikes on trains, it may be necessary to travel on consecutive trains. If you're able to travel to Traralgon with your bike by car, that will minimise the stress of fitting all the bikes on the trains. You would need to leave your car overnight in Traralgon on Saturday night though.  BOOKING: By Monday 7th April, or ASAP to ensure you don't miss out. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: Gippsland Plains Rail Trail  RIDE START TIME | LOCATION: 10:15am departure from Traralgon Station, 35 Princes Hwy, Traralgon.   MAP REFERENCE: Google map (Traralgon Station): maps.app.goo.gl/V9ZdX7UXP3GzFLjB7.  Route map: Traralgon Station to Stratford Station via Gippsland Plains Rail Trail. DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 163 km, approximately 2 hours by car, or 2 hours 15 minutes by train. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Traveling to and from this event can be done via V/line train from Southern Cross Station to Traralgon (or board from a station on the line): Saturday: Options are: 6:34am Southern Cross - 8:49am Traralgon (provision for 6 bikes). Super early option! There are several cafes near the station while you're waiting for the rest to arrive. 7:54am Southern Cross - 10:08am Traralgon (provision for 12 bikes). ** Recommended service due to the capacity for 12 bikes. Sunday: There are fairly regular services returning from Traralgon on Sunday, for example departing at 2:47pm (arrival at Southern Cross at 5:05pm), 3:47pm (arrival 6:05pm), 4:27pm (arrival 6:45pm), 5:27pm (arrival 7:44pm) etc. ACCOMMODATION: Bookings will be made at the Avon River Inn, 26 Tyers St, Stratford (close to Stratford Station). When booking, you will be asked to nominate your preferred sleeping arrangement: Private Room - Solo Private Room with Partner (in this case, please answer the BED PARTNER question also) Shared Room. Twin Rooms (1 x Double Bed, 1x Single Bed) cost: $140.00 per room Queen Rooms (1 x Queen Bed) cost: $120.00 per room FOOD: Carry snacks and a litre of water. Food will be purchased en route for lunches and for dinner on Saturday. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Your bike, helmet and suitable cycling gear, plus a change of clothes for Saturday evening. A spare tube(s) is highly recommended, as is either Bicicyle Network Rider Rescue or RACV Bike Assist. 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  

Bringing to conclusion my series of walks from Greenborough to Mernda, following the picturesque Plenty River up-stream, this walk links up the conclusion of my last, at Morang, with the start of an earlier walk from Hawkestowe Station to Mernda, taking you through some lovely Plenty Gorge parklands and scenery. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 3: Moderate 13.5 km (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). Some reasonably steep ascents and climbs on rough cycle tracks in places requiring adequate footwear and reasonable level of sure-footedness recommended - tracks could be muddy and slippery due to any recent rain. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: From South Morang Station, this walk will take us through/ skirting some uban spaces and across some serious roads before reaching the bush with picturesque gorge views. We descend to the river to pass under the Gorge Road bridge, following the river into the parklands then ascending into flat and open country to reach Hawkestowe Station for the train replacement bus ride back to South Morang, with time there maybe for refreshments, possibly at The Sporting Globe - Plenty Valley, before catching a train back towards the city. BOOKING: By Friday 4th April. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:30am below the South Morang Station, at ground level near the toilets.   MAP REFERENCE: Google map - South Morang Station: maps.app.goo.gl/3dcuX6Gg22Ln43C77.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Catch the 9.29am Mernda line train from Flinder's Street (usually platform 1), I will very likely join you and the train at Northcote. We reach South Morang at 10:24am - the meet-up point is below the station at ground level (near the toilets) for the start of the walk.  Due to forecast line maintenance work, it will be necessary to catch a train replacement bus back from Hawkestowe Station to South Morang at the end of the walk to pick up the homeward train. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. We are coming into our cooler and wetter season and the rough cycle tracks could be muddy and slippery. LEADER: Michael Cowan. | Email LeaderMichaelC@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  

Our regular monthly social night - this month at the Plough Hotel, Footscray.  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.  Tuesday evening at the Plough Hotel is Steak Night: "$25 Porterhouse Steak or $32 steak deal - with glass wine or beer". See the Plough Hotel Menu for other options. BOOKING: By Sunday 30th March. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm at the Plough Hotel, 333 Barkly St, Footscray (cnr Barkly St and Victoria St). MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/t8PSqR7ZXbLJFe1c6. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Sunbury/Watergardens line to Middle Footscray Station (plus 9 minute walk) Tram 82 to Geelong Rd/Droop St (plus 9 minute walk) Werribee or Williamstown line to Footscray Station (plus 13 minute walk) Bus 216, 220, 410, 472 to Barkly St/Victoria St 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  

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 31st March. 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