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: 10:25am 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 9:06am and change at Ringwood (on the other side of the platform) to the Belgrave line train, arriving in Upper Ferntree Gully at 10:18am. 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  

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  

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  

Diverse terrain and sharp suburban ascents define this loop through Melbourne's outer east. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 3: Moderate 14 km circuit walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System).  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Diverse terrain and sharp suburban ascents define this loop through Melbourne's outer east. The route offers an eclectic mix of quiet bushwalking tracks and paved footpaths, weaving through pockets of native greenery and local streets. Be prepared for several short, steep hills that will certainly get your blood pumping. We follow the Mullum Mullum Trail through Antonio Park, the Schwerkolt Cottage and with Eastlink views. There are no public bathrooms directly on the route, so plan accordingly before setting off. BOOKING: By Friday 8th May. To register, click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am at southern carpark of Heatherdale Station.  PUBLIC TRANSPORT: The 10:06am Belgrave train from Flinders Street Station (or the Loop) arrives at 10:55am, so we’ll wait for that, but if you want to buy anything in Heatherdale, take the earlier 9:46am Lilydale train. We’ll be in the first carriage.   MAP REFERENCE: Google map: maps.app.goo.gl/UHhDJbmQWPX3cqnF6 FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots and dress according to the weather forecast.   LEADER: Richard C. | Email LeaderRichardC@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 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 15th 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: Brett Sayles, Pexels.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Nomads Financial Members are welcome to attend the May meeting of the committee of The Nomads Outdoors Group.  GRADE: Social. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: The Nomads committee holds four online meetings each year, generally on the third Monday in the months of February, May, August and November. The meetings are held online via Zoom, and Nomads Members are welcome to attend (though are not able to vote). A fifth committee meeting is held in person prior to the AGM (Annual General Meeting), which is usually held on the first Tuesday in May. Much of the business associated with running the club is performed via email throughout the year, but the committee meetings provide the opportunity for further discussion, and to formally adopt and record any decisions made within the previous quarter. BOOKING: By Sunday 16th May. To register click on Get Tickets. Only current full financial members of The Nomads are eligible to attend. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 7pm online via Zoom. The Zoom link will be emailed to current committee members and to any members who register by the RSVP date. 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. Image designed by rawpixel.com / Freepik   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Check out this interesting route that leads you out to the site of the Sunbury Rock Festival in the late 70s. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 3: Moderate 12.7 km out-and-back walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). There is a creek crossing early on that would be difficult after heavy rain. The path is overgrown / non-existent in places, and there is the risk of snakes in warmer months. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: This pleasant walk starts at Stratford Close, Sunbury and follows Harpers Creek and Jacksons Creek. The walking track doesn't get much use and is not visible in some sections. Enjoy the beautiful riverside sections and expansive views in many directions.  BOOKING: By Friday 22nd May. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: AllTrails.com: Jacksons Creek Explorer. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10:35am where the cycling/pedestrian path meets Stratford Close (near the intersection of Nottinghill Rise and Stratford Cl/The Strand).  MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/BHYUR3xbMRMXXRRSA.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 45 km, approximately 1 hour to drive or 1 hour 20 mins by public transport from Town Hall Station. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: GETTING TO THE WALK: Catch the Sunbury line train that leaves Town Hall at 9:14am, arriving at Sunbury at 10:18am, then take the 10:21am #488 Jacksons Hill bus to Whitechapel Way/Nottinghill Rise. AFTER THE WALK: #488 buses to Sunbury Station depart at regular intervals from the nearby Jacksons Hill Terminus/The Strand (e.g. departures at: 2:33pm, 3pm, 3:33pm, 4:13pm). Trains depart regularly from Sunbury Station (at least one every 20 minutes). FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. Be prepared for a creek crossing (you may need to remove shoes and socks) and walking on non-formed tracks. LEADER: TBA. | 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  

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 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 29th 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: Kim Dae Jung, Pexels.   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. 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 Palace Hotel website for more details, including their reasonably priced menu. Tuesday night is "Pie, Pasta & Plonk Night!" Enjoy their pie or pasta of the day and a house shiraz, pinot grigio or schooner of beer for just $30! Alternatively, $7 house shiraz or pinot grigio with any other main meal ordered. BOOKING: By Sunday 31st May. 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: 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: TBA | 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  

**WAITLIST ONLY AT THIS STAGE DUE TO UNPRECEDENTED INTEREST. HOWEVER REGISTER AN EXPRESSION OF INTEREST** Join the tall ship "South Passage", Queensland's sail training ship, for a sailing adventure along the Queensland coast. See Voyage Flyer.   Nomads are not taking over 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 decide 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!  The voyage is 7 days long and costs $2,128 per person. This includes accommodation onboard 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 (Friday 29th) as we will have an onshore welcome 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.  BOOKING: Bookings are on a first in first served basis. Contact Phil Woodgate (the skipper) on 0419 640 973 or rpswoodgate@gmail.com to register interest, or to book.  You can also contact Roger on 0400 283 623 if you have any questions. Please also click Get Tickets on this page so Roger knows you are interested (with no commitment). However you will need to pay a deposit closer to the departure to confirm your place. Payment will be direct to South Passage and not through Nomads. Details of this will be provided later to all interested persons. At present the voyage has not been opened to the public so we have open slather. FURTHER INFORMATION: southpassage.org.au, the official South Passage website.  MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Refer to the Voyage Flyer.   You have to arrive the day before the voyage departs. We have a welcome dinner (around 5pm the night before) to get to know your 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. Don't book flights out of Townsville before about 8pm on the day of disembarkation (Friday 5th June) as there can be delays.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: A long way!! Best to fly to/from Townsville, Queensland. This airfare is not included in the voyage cost above.  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 food 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. Members can access leader contact details under Members | Leader Contacts when logged in to the website.   HOME   BACK TO LIST OF EVENTS   MEMBERSHIPS  

Join fellow dark beer lovers to enjoy an afternoon of tasting a selection of 30 dark beers on offer from 14 independent Victorian craft breweries.  GRADE | TYPE: Social, with a short walk in Ballarat. ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Back for it's third year Obsidian Dark Beer Festival strives to curate an exceptional selection of dark beers, ranging from stouts and porters to black IPAs and barrel-aged specialties. They believe in promoting the exploration and appreciation of these rich, complex, and often underrepresented beer styles. Celebrating the rich tapestry of dark beer styles, weaving together the warmth of community, the depth of flavour, and the spirit of discovery. They aspire to create an unforgettable experience in the heart of Ballarat, where enthusiasts and novices alike come together to explore the dark side of Victorias craft brewing. Born out of the depths of a brisk Ballarat winter, Obsidian serves as a gathering place for both established and emerging breweries. Your ticket gives you a memento glass, entertainment and unlimited beer tastings. There are also Offsider tickets available, which give you a memento glass and entertainment, but no beer tastings. You can also purchase merchandise, palate cleansing spirits, cocktails and food offerings. BOOKING: Please book both a Nomads and an Obsidian ticket: NOMADS: Please get a free ticket via Get Tickets so we know who is attending, and can coordinate the group. Unsure if you've already booked with The Nomads? Click View my bookings. OBSIDIAN: Please book your event ticket via the Hullabaloo Events website for the 11am to 3pm session. Ticket sales commence at 10am on Wednesday 1st April. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: From Melbourne: 9.00am at Southern Cross Station to catch the 9:15am service to Ballarat, or anywhere en route, arriving at 10:41am. In Ballarat: 10:55am at Ballarat Mining Exchange, 6 Lydiard St North, Ballarat Central. MAP REFERENCE: Ballarat Mining Exchange - Google map: maps.app.goo.gl/FPRqZd1HpnvT4dL96 (350 metres from the station). DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 125 km, approximately 1 hour 40 minutes by car, but travel by V/Line train is recommended (1 hour 30 minutes). PUBLIC TRANSPORT: If travelling from Melbourne, catch the Wendouree V/Line service departing from Southern Cross at 9:15am, arriving in Ballarat at 10:41am. For the return journey, we plan to catch the service departing Ballarat at 3:24pm, arriving at Southern Cross at 4:52pm. *Note the train time table may change closer to the event. COST:  Obsidian Dark Beer Fest: 1st release tix: $85 plus $3.11 bf (until sold out, number of tickets unknown) 2nd release tix: $95 plus $3.11 bf Offsider tix*: $45 plus $2.01 bf (*want to join the group, but not a fan of beer? This ticket will provide you entry to the festival, festival glass & access to all the entertainment, WITHOUT any samples of beer included).   Public Transport: Ballarat is in the Myki fare zone. Weekend fares to anywhere in Victoria are capped at $8.00 full | $4.00 concession. FOOD: Lunch can be purchased at the event. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather forecast.  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  

Join us for the annual Nomads Winter Solstice Dinner.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Enjoy this year's Winter Solstice with the Nomads at the Syrian restaurant Shamiat. We will be indulging in a 3 course banquet with both meat and vegetarian options. For any other dietary requirements please contact the event leader. This is a BYO wine restaurant. There will be an extra $5 corkage fee per bottle of wine which people can pay the restaurant on the night. Other drinks can also be purchased and paid for on the night. BOOKING: By Wednesday 17th June. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: shamiat.com.au MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 6:30pm with a plan to start eating around 7 pm. Shamiat Restaurant, 60 Victoria Rd, Northcote.  MAP REFERENCE: Google map: maps.app.goo.gl/1URxBZxyAKU6rFh46. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Catch the Hurstbridge line train that departs from Flinders Street Station at 5:59pm and arrives at Dennis Station at 6:23pm. The restaurant is a 5 minute walk from there. LEADER: Greg W. | Email LeaderGregW@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  

We continue along the O'Keefe Rail Trail from the Knowsley State Forest through Knowslea to Lake Eppalock. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 3: Moderate 12.7 km walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System). Mostly flat on a gravel rail trail.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: After meeting at the O'Keefe Rail Trail car park we carpool to the start of the walk at the Smart Track Visitor Area, Knowsley State Forest. We walk for about 2 hours along the O'Keefe Rail Trail through forest and farm land to arrive at our lunch stop at Knowsley. After lunch, we continue on to Lake Eppalock. Depending on early winter rainfall, the lake water may reach this point. We will then drive to Heathcote for refreshments, before heading home. BOOKING: By Friday 24th July. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: OKeefe Rail Trail | Commercial Hotel Heathcote  MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 10am at the O'Keefe Rail Trail car park, 8 km/5 mins drive from the Northern Hwy/McIvor Hwy intersection, Heathcote (towards Bendigo).  MAP REFERENCE: Google map maps.app.goo.gl/7PWvjg3uCwkiAARS7 DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 135 km, aproximately 1 hr 44 min via Kilmore & Heathcote. Alternative routes via Lancefield 130 km, 1 hr 45 min or 146 km, 1 hour 45 minutes via Calder Fwy/M79 to Kyneton, then follow C326 via Redesdale to Heathcote. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Not Available. If you need a lift or to carpool, contact leader at least a week in advance to arrange. FOOD: Carry snacks, lunch and 2 litres of water. After walk refreshments will be at the Commercial Hotel or Gaffney's Bakery (closes 4pm). APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. Knowslea can be several degrees warmer and sunnier than Melbourne. LEADER: Paul K | Email LeaderPaulK@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  

Short precis of the event, for example: A climb to the top of Babbington Hill in the Wombat State Forest, passing by a hidden reservoir and an historic mineral spring.  GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Grade 2: Moderate 9.5 km circuit walk (graded according to the AWTGS: Australian Walking Tracks Grading System).  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: Add a descriptive narrative here ... a few lines or a few paragraphs, as appropriate depending on the complexity of your event.  BOOKING: By Friday 11th November. To register click on Get Tickets. Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: If appropriate, add links to relevant online references. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: 11am in the car park of the Radio Springs Hotel, 1 High St, Lyonville.  MAP REFERENCE: Google map goo.gl/maps/AcrfAxJF7GPZj8Pt6.  DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 102 km, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes via Calder Fwy/M79 to Woodend, then follow directions to Daylesford, taking the Tylden-Woodend Rd, then the C318 Kyneton-Trentham Rd, and finally the C317 Trentham-Daylesford Rd to Lyonville. PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Provide public transport details, if public transport is an option. FOOD: Carry lunch, snacks and a litre of water. APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Comfortable walking boots/shoes and dress according to the weather forecast. Lyonville can be several degrees cooler than Melbourne. 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  

A full week of cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and/or snowboarding, staying in a cosy lodge at Falls Creek. Stay the full week, or part thereof. GRADE | LENGTH | TYPE: Your choice (choose slopes and equipment to match your skills) – cross-country skiing, downhill skiing and/or snowboarding.  ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION: A full week (or part thereof) ski trip to Falls Creek is planned for a week Sunday 9th to Sunday 16th August. We will be staying at the cosy Cosela Alpine Lodge, which provides ski-in ski-out access from Wombats Ramble with no oversnow transport requirements. This will be a cross-country ski, downhill ski and/or snowboard week leaving Melbourne on Sunday and leaving Falls Creek the following Sunday. BOOKING: Please get a Nomads ticket ASAP by clicking on Get Tickets, as there are limited beds now available. It's advisable to email LeaderLesB@nomads.org.au after you book, so he can advise what beds are available and organise payment.  Unsure if you've already booked? Click View my bookings. FURTHER INFORMATION: www.cosela.com.au/Winter/index.html. MEETING TIME | LOCATION: Sunday afternoon, Cosela Alpine Lodge, Falls Creek.  MAP REFERENCE: Melway Map X922 grid H10 | Google map goo.gl/maps/V7fBUEiNBb62.  GETTING THERE: There are coach services from Melbourne, Mt Beauty and many other locations to Falls Creek. There are long-term parking facilities in Mt Beauty if you don’t wish to take your car up the mountain. If driving, take the Hume Freeway (M31) to Wangaratta then the Great Alpine Road (B500), turning off to Mt Beauty. On arrival at Falls Creek you should request to unload your luggage at the steps beyond the CFA station, which is lit at night. As you are staying at Cosela, you don't need oversnow transport. After unloading, you will return to the attendant to be directed to a parking place. Cosela Lodge can then be reached by travelling up the steps and across Snowgum Lane (see map at www.cosela.com.au/Winter/Map.html). DISTANCE | TIME FROM GPO: 391 km, 4.5 hours. FOOD: It's advisable to bring food for the period of your stay; group catering arrangements will be organised after registration. Breakfast cereal, milk, bread, jam, condiments, tea and coffee are provided by the lodge. There’s a local food store for last minute supplies and oversights. COSTS: You can come for the full period or part thereof: ACCOMMODATION MON-THU: The accommodation cost is $125 per Nomads member per night. ACCOMMODATION FRI-SAT: $280 for Friday plus Saturday night (i.e. $140 per night, but payment is required for both nights if either is required). BOOKING FEE: There is also a $3.50 service booking fee. BUS - MOUNT BEAUTY TO FALLS CREEK: The bus fee is $79 Mount Beauty to Falls Creek return if you decide to park in Mt Beauty bus depot a secure parking fee of $84 for the 7 nights. FALLS CREEK PARKING: The parking fee at Falls Creek was $469 for the 7 nights in 2025. This will be updated once this year's price is known (plus you will need to carry snow chains). NON MEMBERS: Not a Nomads member? Purchase a temporary one-month membership before getting your tickets (cost $8). APPAREL | FOOTWEAR: Bring sheets and pillowcases, towel, washer and toiletries, plus ski gear to suit all possible conditions (or hire it in Mt Beauty or Falls Creek). Don’t forget warm, comfortable clothing for after-ski activities. If driving you will be required to carry chains (these can be hired in Mt Beauty), and you should ensure your radiator has antifreeze. LEADER: Les B. | Email LeaderLesB@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