Events

Take a guided walking tour for an overview of Ballarat’s marvellous gold rush era buildings. The guided amble runs for approximately two hours as we delve into the storied past of Ballarat – as evident in its historic main street. Our tour will start and finish at the Burke and Wills fountain, located in the centre of the Sturt Street/Lydiard Street intersection. Afterwards, members can enjoy lunch at one of the hotels in Lydiard Street.

This activity targets active, reasonably fit club members who are looking to maintain walking fitness and enjoy the opportunity of longer, more challenging walks. The aims are to maintain gains in walking readiness and to offer a multi-day hike each year.

Walks will be approximately 12kms, or less on more demanding terrain and will finish with lunch at own cost for those interested.

Swing, style and plenty of laughs will light up your day when acclaimed entertainer Rhys Tolhurst brings his hit show A Swing Affair. Rhys will be joined by guest vocalist Nina Ferro. Together they pay tribute to the Great American Songbook with timeless hits from Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Harry Connick Jr and Michael Bublé

Award-winning author and historian Carmel McKenzie will share surprising and often amusing insights into nineteenth-century St Kilda, the wealthiest suburb in Melbourne and known Australia-wide as a bastion of privilege and power until its golden age imploded in the 1890s. 

• Please note there are two attachments to this invitation.

The walk this month will be the top end of Lonsdale St. Meet at 9:00 at Southern Cross Station. See the attached photo showing the meeting point on the upper level. (Enter the station from Spencer St and go up two escalators or enter directly from Collins St opposite tram stop D14.) We will visit interesting sights around the top end of Lonsdale St – those we missed on the last walk when a plastic whistle & a water bottle caused security consternation and delayed us at the Supreme Court Library. Easy walking to a mandatory coffee stop. Guests welcome. Hope to have your company. Richard Bonnett 0417 19 15 16

Join friends from Bearbrass as you journey behind heritage diesel locomotives aboard the Grainlander to explore the spectacular Mallee region of Victoria. Be amazed by the once-busy silos that have been transformed into giant canvases hosting spectacular artworks along the Silo Art Trail

Join Bearbrass friends for a long Sunday lunch at one of Melbourne’s fabulous pubs!

We have a change of venue for our Bearbrass Book Club meeting in May.

We have a private meeting room at QUARTERHOUSE at 693 Collins St, Docklands. You will be glad to know that before officially beginning the meeting at 11:30am, opportunity to start the morning with a coffee is still available.  There is also the option to stay on for lunch following the meeting.  

The book on our list for May 18 is "Limberlost" by Robbie Arnott and the discussion leader is Rose 

Please note that the reading list (Version 5) is attached for your information!

This Craft Group meets every 3rd Monday each month with lunch starting 12.30 pm and Craft at 1.30 to 3.30 pm.

The Group meets at the Wharf Hotel 18-22 Siddely St Melbourne.

Previously the group met informally with members of the Melbourne Sunrise Probus Club. This Craft Group is now officially combined with Sunrise Craft Group. 

Any Bearbrass Member who would like to join this Craft Group are most welcome.

Come along to the Wharf Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month for a friendly board game or Mahjong.

No prior experience needed. Mahjong coaches will happily introduce new players to this fascinating game. 

Otherwise, join in on Scrabble or bring along your favourite game.

Drinks and food available.

Nova Cinema  Carlton. The Sheep Detectives. 4.30pm Wednesday 20th May.

The ANZ Gothic Bank in Melbourne

Come visit this unique space and work.  

About the Exhibition

"The ANZ Gothic Bank in Melbourne, located at 388 Collins Street, features a restored 19th-century banking hall and houses the ANZ Banking Museum, which  show cases a significant collection of historical items and art. The museum highlights paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, and financial history, including Victorian-era pieces"  ( ANZ website)

The Photography Group offers a social get together to discuss our recent photos, share experience and maybe, just maybe, learn something. You don’t need a fancy camera to join this group: a smartphone will do, plus an interest in improving the quality of your photos.

The wine aficionados of Bearbrass Probus Club gather on the last Friday of the month to sample a collection of wines we may not have tried before. Apart from having as much fun as possible, the aim of each session is to taste a range of wines which we might not have considered buying previously - for whatever reason. After the tidy up, tasters may choose to go on for a cheap and cheerful dinner at a venue nearby, to be advised.

Please find attached papers for our MC meeting on Monday 1st June including individual reports, the agenda and the minutes of the last  committee meeting. 

The meeting venue is in the Clarendon Towers meeting room, 45 Haig street Southbank. The meeting starts promptly at 9:30 a.m., so please be outside the building by 9:25 a.m. so that we can all be admitted in one group.

I have received apologies from Jill. If something changes, and you are unable to make the meeting, advise me directly (not another committee member please) by email , phone or SMS and also advise, to whom you would like to give your proxy. 

Please be aware of the contents of each of the attachments and have any questions and comments prepared in advance to assist with the efficient and timely running of the meeting.

Come along to the Wharf Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month for a friendly board game or Mahjong.

No prior experience needed. Mahjong coaches will happily introduce new players to this fascinating game. 

Otherwise, join in on Scrabble or bring along your favourite game.

Drinks and food available.

En Pointe — The Australian Ballet School

The Australian Ballet School’s annual performance captivates audiences with a breathtaking new program each year. Featuring the School’s talented full-time students, this vibrant mixed show celebrates the art of ballet, from uplifting contemporary pieces to beautiful classical works.

Join us for casual lunch at 12:30pm on Wednesday 3rd June at Rana’s Bakery, a new establishment specialising in middle eastern pastries.

Bakery is near the corner Bourke Street and Harbour Esplanade Docklands.

Transport

Many options but most convenient is Tram #70, 75 or City Circle. Stop Marvel Stadium.  Tram-  #48 or 11 tram along Collins Street also close by, as are the #86 and 96 alighting Southern Cross station.

Trains to Southern Cross, cross the bridge at the northern end of the station and descent to the western side of Bourke Street. Stairs and lift located near Gate 1 Marvel Stadium or outside Channel 9.

RSVP timeline - Registrations close at 3pm Tuesday 2nd June

Action for you

• Please respond to this email by clicking on the link below and then either decline or accept.
• Remember also to click save.
• If you don’t receive an acknowledgement email almost immediately, you haven’t registered successfully.

Thank you and look forward to seeing you

Rose Mitchell & Cathy Woodruff, Lunch Convenors
 

This activity targets active, reasonably fit club members who are looking to maintain walking fitness and enjoy the opportunity of longer, more challenging walks. The aims are to maintain gains in walking readiness and to offer a multi-day hike each year.

Walks will be approximately 12kms, or less on more demanding terrain and will finish with lunch at own cost for those interested.

Bearbrass Book Club meets on the third Monday of each month at 

Clarendon Towers, 80 Clarendon St, Southbank.  

Cafe Park Lane is on the corner of City Rd and Clarendon St for those who like to start the morning with a coffee. 

There is also the option to stay on for lunch following the meeting.  Each month, the discussion is led by a club member, with books and leaders planned ahead for the year.  

The book on our list for June 15 is "The Benevolent Society of Ill-mannered Ladies" by Alison Goodman and the discussion leader is Pam

This Craft Group meets every 3rd Monday each month with lunch.

Lunch starts at 12.30 pm followed by Craft at 1.30 to 3.30 pm. 

Location is Wharf Hotel 18-38 Siddeley Street Melbourne 3005

Those attending lunch are required to ring Sharyn Day on 0408 393 350 by 5 pm Friday 12 June 2026

Any Bearbrass member who would like to join this craft group are most welcome

<p>Come along to the Wharf Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month for a friendly board game or Mahjong.</p> <p>No prior experience needed. Mahjong coaches will happily introduce new players to this fascinating game.&nbsp;</p> <p>Otherwise, join in on Scrabble or bring along your favourite game.</p> <p>Drinks and food available.</p>

Movie: The Christophers at Nova Cinema 4.25pm. Dinner to follow.

NGV National Gallery of Victoria

Cartier:Melbourne Winter Masterpieces 2026

Come and enjoy the world of historic gemstones, jewellery and their histrory. The collection of 300 objects traces Cartier's evolution in design and skill over the years and the preferences of society. 

National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)

Cartier: Melbourne Winter Masterpieces  2026

"Inviting complete immersion into the world of gemstones"

The exhibition of designs, stones and jewellery are works of art at its best. The 300 objects trace the history of gemstones and Cartier's evolution over a long period of time.

The Walking Group meets on the 3rd Friday of the month to walk around various landmarks close to the city. Walks are generally around 5k and certainly no further than 8k with big hills avoided. A suitable stop for coffee is part of the walk. It is a good opportunity to get some exercise and have a chat at the same time. The actual destination will be advised with the invitation one week before.

Join Bearbrass friends for a long Sunday lunch at a fabulous pub!

A Guided Tour Before the Doors Open

From the iconic Dome to hidden catacombs, explore the Library before the doors open on this premium State Library Victoria guided tour.  

The Photography Group offers a social get together to discuss our recent photos, share experience and maybe, just maybe, learn something. You don’t need a fancy camera to join this group: a smartphone will do, plus an interest in improving the quality of your photos.

The wine aficionados of Bearbrass Probus Club gather on the last Friday of the month to sample a collection of wines. Apart from having as much fun as possible, the aim of each session is to taste a range of wines which we might not have considered buying previously - for whatever reason. After the tidy up, tasters may choose to go on for a cheap and cheerful dinner at a venue nearby, to be advised.

Management Committee Meeting

<p>Come along to the Wharf Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month for a friendly board game or Mahjong.</p> <p>No prior experience needed. Mahjong coaches will happily introduce new players to this fascinating game.&nbsp;</p> <p>Otherwise, join in on Scrabble or bring along your favourite game.</p> <p>Drinks and food available.</p>

This activity targets active, reasonably fit club members who are looking to maintain walking fitness and enjoy the opportunity of longer, more challenging walks. The aims are to maintain gains in walking readiness and to offer a multi-day hike each year.

Walks will be approximately 12kms, or less on more demanding terrain and will finish with lunch at own cost for those interested.

The Antarctic exerts a powerful influence on global climate. I'll describe my time in the Antarctic assisting the research efforts.

Join Bearbrass friends for a movie, followed by dinner and lively discussion.

Generally at either the Kino (Collins Street) or the Nova (Lygon St Carlton), the details of movie and cinema are advertised a week prior.

The Walking Group meets on the 3rd Friday of the month to walk around various landmarks close to the city. Walks are generally around 5k and certainly no further than 8k with big hills avoided. A suitable stop for coffee is part of the walk. It is a good opportunity to get some exercise and have a chat at the same time. The actual destination will be advised with the invitation one week before.

Join Bearbrass friends for a long Sunday lunch at one of Melbourne’s fabulous pubs!

Bearbrass Book Club meets on the third Monday of each month at Little Bean, 850 Collins Street, Melbourne. Before officially beginning the meeting at 11:30am, we take the opportunity to start themorning with a coffee.  There is also the option to stay on for lunch following the meeting.  Each month, the discussion is led by a club member, with books and leaders planned ahead for the year.  New members are warmly welcomed! 

The book on our list for July 20 is "TThe Burgess Boys" by Elizabeth Strout and the discussion leader is Cate 

Orchestra Victoria With Caroline O'Connor — Music And Me

Australian theatrical legend Caroline O’Connor AM has delighted audiences across the globe: on London’s West End, Broadway in New York and throughout Australia on our stages and screens. Her incredible career has featured many of musical theatre’s most powerful leading roles. For this special performance, Caroline will be joined by Orchestra Victoria to present music she has handpicked for the significance they play in her life.

<p>Come along to the Wharf Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month for a friendly board game or Mahjong.</p> <p>No prior experience needed. Mahjong coaches will happily introduce new players to this fascinating game.&nbsp;</p> <p>Otherwise, join in on Scrabble or bring along your favourite game.</p> <p>Drinks and food available.</p>

The Photography Group offers a social get together to discuss our recent photos, share experience and maybe, just maybe, learn something. You don’t need a fancy camera to join this group: a smartphone will do, plus an interest in improving the quality of your photos.

Our annual celebration of Christmas in July will take place at the ever popular P. J. O’Brien’s Pub in Southgate, so get ready to jingle your bells!

Based on the iconic Hollywood movie, Pretty Woman the musical is coming to the Regent theatre, starring Samantha Jade. 

Vivian and Edward are unlikely soulmates who overcome all odds to find each other - and themselves. Brought to life by a powerhouse creative team representing the best of music, Hollywood, and Broadway, Pretty Woman: The Musical is a guaranteed big day out that will lift your spirits and light up your heart.

Tickets are $96. Guests are welcome. 

Please pay to Bearbrass Bank account 

BSB 633 000

Account number 174 771 725 

In the details, state your surname and then "Pretty Woman "

The wine aficionados of Bearbrass Probus Club gather on the last Friday of the month to sample a collection of 6 wines. Apart from having as much fun as possible, the aim of each session is to taste a range of wines which we might not have considered buying previously - for whatever reason.

After the tidy up, tasters may choose to go on for a cheap and cheerful dinner at a venue nearby, to be advised.

Management Committee Meeting

<p>Come along to the Wharf Hotel on the first and third Tuesday of each month for a friendly board game or Mahjong.</p> <p>No prior experience needed. Mahjong coaches will happily introduce new players to this fascinating game.&nbsp;</p> <p>Otherwise, join in on Scrabble or bring along your favourite game.</p> <p>Drinks and food available.</p>

Around the world, nearly five billion people lack access to safe surgery. Conditions that are easily treatable in Australia can become life threatening or socially isolating in low resource countries. Mercy Ships responds by deploying hospital ships staffed by volunteer medical professionals to provide free surgery and training, restoring health, dignity and opportunity.

This activity targets active, reasonably fit club members who are looking to maintain walking fitness and enjoy the opportunity of longer, more challenging walks. The aims are to maintain gains in walking readiness and to offer a multi-day hike each year.

Walks will be approximately 12kms, or less on more demanding terrain and will finish with lunch at own cost for those interested.

Join Bearbrass friends for a long Sunday lunch at one of Melbourne’s fabulous pubs!

Bearbrass Book Club meets on the third Monday of each month at Little Bean, 850 Collins Street, Melbourne. Before officially beginning the meeting at 11:30am, we take the opportunity to start themorning with a coffee.  There is also the option to stay on for lunch following the meeting.  Each month, the discussion is led by a club member, with books and leaders planned ahead for the year.  New members are warmly welcomed! 

The book on our list for August 17 is "The Hearts INvisible Furies" by John Boyne and the discussion leader is Sue 

Victorian College Of The Arts Music Theatre Showcase — Echoes Of Broadway

The Victorian College of the Arts’ graduating cohort honours the legacy of Broadway’s Golden Age. These rising stars – some of Australia’s finest emerging music theatre talent – bring timeless classics to life in a performance brimming with heart, harmony and high-energy ensembles

Join Bearbrass friends for a movie, followed by dinner and lively discussion.

Generally at either the Kino (Collins Street) or the Nova (Lygon St Carlton), the details of movie and cinema are advertised a week prior.

The Walking Group meets on the 3rd Friday of the month to walk around various landmarks close to the city. Walks are generally around 5k and certainly no further than 8k with big hills avoided. A suitable stop for coffee is part of the walk. It is a good opportunity to get some exercise and have a chat at the same time. The actual destination will be advised with the invitation one week before.

The Photography Group offers a social get together to discuss our recent photos, share experience and maybe, just maybe, learn something. You don’t need a fancy camera to join this group: a smartphone will do, plus an interest in improving the quality of your photos.

The wine aficionados of Bearbrass Probus Club gather on the last Friday of the month to sample a collection of wines we may not have tried before. Apart from having as much fun as possible, the aim of each session is to taste a range of wines which we might not have considered buying previously - for whatever reason.

After the tidy up, tasters may choose to go on for a cheap and cheerful dinner at a venue nearby, to be advised.

Management Committee Meeting

This activity targets active, reasonably fit club members who are looking to maintain walking fitness and enjoy the opportunity of longer, more challenging walks. The aims are to maintain gains in walking readiness and to offer a multi-day hike each year.

Walks will be approximately 12kms, or less on more demanding terrain and will finish with lunch at own cost for those interested.

Silvie Paladino — A Life On Stage

Australian musical theatre star Silvie Paladino’s performance is filled with music and stories as she reflects on her remarkable journey in the spotlight. From her breakthrough in Les Misérables in Australia and London’s West End, to standout roles in Cats, Miss Saigon, Mamma Mia!, Chess, Passion, Fun Home, Cinderella and Sunset Boulevard, Silvie has established herself as one of the nation’s most versatile performers.

Join Bearbrass friends for a movie, followed by dinner and lively discussion.

Generally at either the Kino (Collins Street) or the Nova (Lygon St Carlton), the details of movie and cinema are advertised a week prior.

The Walking Group meets on the 3rd Friday of the month to walk around various landmarks close to the city. Walks are generally around 5k and certainly no further than 8k with big hills avoided. A suitable stop for coffee is part of the walk. It is a good opportunity to get some exercise and have a chat at the same time. The actual destination will be advised with the invitation one week before.

Join Bearbrass friends for a long Sunday lunch at one of Melbourne’s fabulous pubs!

Bearbrass Book Club meets on the third Monday of each month at Little Bean, 850 Collins Street, Melbourne. Before officially beginning the meeting at 11:30am, we take the opportunity to start themorning with a coffee.  There is also the option to stay on for lunch following the meeting.  Each month, the discussion is led by a club member, with books and leaders planned ahead for the year.  New members are warmly welcomed! 

The book on our list for September 21 is "The Instrumentalist" by Harry Constable and the discussion leader is Linda 

The Photography Group offers a social get together to discuss our recent photos, share experience and maybe, just maybe, learn something. You don’t need a fancy camera to join this group: a smartphone will do, plus an interest in improving the quality of your photos.

The wine aficionados of Bearbrass Probus Club gather on the last Friday of the month to sample a collection of wines we may not have tried before.

Apart from having as much fun as possible, the aim of each session is to taste a range of wines which we might not have considered buying previously - for whatever reason.

After the tidy up, tasters may choose to go on for a cheap and cheerful dinner at a venue nearby, to be advised.

Cost for the tasting is $25 per head and the group size is capped at 12.

Management Committee Meeting

This activity targets active, reasonably fit club members who are looking to maintain walking fitness and enjoy the opportunity of longer, more challenging walks. The aims are to maintain gains in walking readiness and to offer a multi-day hike each year.

Walks will be approximately 12kms, or less on more demanding terrain and will finish with lunch at own cost for those interested.

Created in collaboration with Neil Diamond himself, A BEAUTIFUL NOISE is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 140 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like “America,” “Forever in Blue Jeans,” and “Sweet Caroline,” an induction into the Songwriters and Rock and Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, Neil Diamond’s story was made to shine on Broadway, where the biggest stars tell their story.

A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career.

The Walking Group meets on the 3rd Friday of the month to walk around various landmarks close to the city. Walks are generally around 5k and certainly no further than 8k with big hills avoided. A suitable stop for coffee is part of the walk. It is a good opportunity to get some exercise and have a chat at the same time. The actual destination will be advised with the invitation one week before.

Join Bearbrass friends for a long Sunday lunch at one of Melbourne’s fabulous pubs!

Bearbrass Book Club meets on the third Monday of each month at Little Bean, 850 Collins Street, Melbourne. Before officially beginning the meeting at 11:30am, we take the opportunity to start themorning with a coffee.  There is also the option to stay on for lunch following the meeting.  Each month, the discussion is led by a club member, with books and leaders planned ahead for the year.  New members are warmly welcomed! 

The book on our list for October 19 is "The Names" by Florence Knapp and the discussion leader is Heather

Join Bearbrass friends for a movie, followed by dinner and lively discussion.

Generally at either the Kino (Collins Street) or the Nova (Lygon St Carlton), the details of movie and cinema are advertised a week prior.

The Photography Group offers a social get together to discuss our recent photos, share experience and maybe, just maybe, learn something. You don’t need a fancy camera to join this group: a smartphone will do, plus an interest in improving the quality of your photos.

I Am Woman — Bold, Brassy And Iconic

Cabaret powerhouses Amelia Ryan and Libby O’Donovan OAM join for a rollicking tribute to the women who redefined Australian music in the swinging ’60s. From the anthems of Helen Reddy and Olivia Newton-John to the soulful sounds of Judith Durham, Wendy Saddington and more, this uplifting hour brims with iconic songs and hilarious true stories.

The wine aficionados of Bearbrass Probus Club gather on the last Friday of the month to sample a collection of wines we may not have tried before. Apart from having as much fun as possible, the aim of each session is to taste a range of wines which we might not have considered buying previously - for whatever reason.

After the tidy up, tasters may choose to go on for a cheap and cheerful dinner at a venue nearby, to be advised.

Management Committee Meeting