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MELBOURNE BELOW
- Fiefdoms -

This section of Melbourne Below provides details of clubs, societies or other groups which welcome new members. (Many of these groups accept casual visitors, and may run events which you are free to attend.)

*Add Your Group to the FIEFDOMS!*

Artists' Collectives
Choral Societies and Musical Associations
Film Societies
Living History Groups
Pagan Groups
Political, Environmental and Social Reform Groups
Role-Playing Societies
Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Fandom
Scientific Societies
Theatrical Societies
Underground Journalism and eZines
Writers' Groups

Artists' Collectives

ARTS ACCESS.
Arts Access provides access to arts and cultural activity for people with a disability and those who are disadvantaged.

ADDRESS: 24 Eastern Road, South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, 3205.

Phone: (03) 9699 8299.
TTY: (03) 9699 7636.
Fax: (03) 9699 8868.
Email info@artsaccess.com.au

Find out more about Arts Access and the programs it runs and the services it offers at http://www.artsaccess.com.au/
[Michael Green 070404]

PLATFORM ARTISTS GROUP, INC.
Platform Artists Group Inc. is the group of Melbourne artists who set up and maintain the PLATFORM and PLATFORM2 projects. The aims of this group are:

• to establish and maintain avenues for direct dialogue between the wider community and the contemporary art and artists nurtured within that community.

• to provide opportunities for contemporary artists to work directly within community environments.

• to promote non-traditional exhibition structures and to support artists and artworkers in pursuing practises and projects located outside art-specific environments.

• Our policies and projects assert the capacity of the community to critically assess and relate to well presented artworks.

• We encourage all aspects of visual arts practise and believe that contemporary art need not be compromised in any way by location in the public arena.

• Platform Artists Group Inc. is an artist initiative committed to artist involvement in display processes.

• Through the PLATFORM & PLATFORM2 exhibition venues we aim to provide the best possible artistic experience for both artists and audience.

PLATFORM was at Spencer Street Station (now Southern Cross Station) - but is no more.

PLATFORM2 is an exhibition space located in the Campbell Arcade subway at Flinders Street Station.

Website: http://platformartistsgroup.blogspot.com/
[Michael Green 070404]

(See also The Undergrowth )

WEST SPACE.
West Space is located on the 1st Floor, 15-19 Anthony Street, Melbourne 3000.
Phone: (03) 9328 8712. Fax: (03) 9328 8715.

EXHIBITION HOURS:
Wed-Fri 12 NOON to 6:00PM.
Sat 12 NOON to 5PM.
(Please buzz at street level for entry after 5pm weekdays and all day Saturdays)

Founded in 1993, West Space is one of Australia's longest running artist run organisations. West Space Inc. continues to build on its excellent record of providing a supportive and flexible venue for the presentation of innovative contemporary art and its ensuing dialogue.

West Space has developed a unique identity amongst Australian arts organisations. This reputation has been forged through a sustained belief in the importance of artist-run initiatives to practitioners, audiences and the art industry. As an organisation that is run by artists it is fully engaged with the multiplicity of practices that artists embrace. The artists on the committee are active in a variety of artistic fields, and in daily contact with current concerns and artistic developments. An accountant and a lawyer oversee financial management and legal issues.

Importantly, West Space acts as a working model that gives artists direct control over the means and conditions of presenting their work to the public. While many artists exhibiting at West Space are young or emerging, there is also a significant number of established artists that actively choose to exhibit at Artist Run Spaces like West Space because of the dynamic communication and artistic freedom that they offer.

Email: info@westspace.org.au
Website: http://www.westspace.org.au/
[Kate 070404]

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Choral Societies and Musical Associations

BERWICK AND DISTRICT FOLK CLUB.
Berwick and District Folk Club exists to provide entertainment and to contribute to the community through the folk genre (predominantly acoustic music), supporting amateur and professional artists/musicians and by providing opportunities for performance in a friendly supportive atmosphere which is inclusive of age, cultures and abilities and develop links with likeminded groups and to promote these arts through education and personal development.

The Club has Open Stage and Featured Artist events on the 3rd Friday of every month (except January) at the Old Cheese factory, 34 Homestead Road, Berwick 3806. (Doors open 7:30PM - Music starts 8:00PM). Entry costs $10.00 for Guests and $7.00 for Members and Spot Acts. (Note: Entry prices may vary depending on artist/venue.)

Memberships are now available. If you join between January and June membership costs $10.00 for Singles and $15.00 for Families. (Between July and June membership costs are $15.00 for Singles and $25.00 for Families).

For more information visit http://www.badfolk.org/
[Edward Nass 080104]

THE BOÎTE WORLD MUSIC CAFE.
The Boîte meets at the Mark Street Hall near the Edinburgh Gardens in Fitzroy every Friday and Saturday night from 8:15PM until late during the period from March to November.

It features music performed by Melbourne-based musicians of many cultural backgrounds including Aboriginal, Iranian, African, Chinese, Pacific Islander, Klezmer, Chilean, and Australian. It features contemporary and traditional music and 'a capella' choirs.

The café serves mulled wine (a speciality), and there are many nibblies and plunger (Bodum) coffee for sale. The café raises funds to help refugee musicians.

Ticket prices are Full $15, Concession $10, Child under 16 $5, Family (2+2) $26.

Each year the Boîte sponsors the 350-voice strong Melbourne Millenium Chorus.

It costs $140 to join the choir. (This includes a long-sleeved tee-shirt, music, CDs, rehearsal costs, etc.)

Each January the Boîte sponsors the Daylesford Singers' and Songwriters' festival.

The Boîte also runs tutorials in various choral, ethnic, and historical styles; gives concerts; provides opportunities to perform and is lots of fun.

(It costs about $160 to join the Boîte.)

For more information visit http://www.boite.com.au/
[Adrienne Losin 080101]

DIAMOND VALLEY SINGERS.
The Diamond Valley Singers is an adult choir, formed in 1985, whose aim is to support local music and encourage local singers.

The choir performs one stage show, one oratorio, plus a small number of other concerts each year. There are no auditions for choristers.

The choir rehearses at the Diamond Creek Uniting Church on Wednesdays from 8-10PM. Membership costs $40 a year.

For more information please contact Graham Ford, the Artistic Director, on (03) 9439 3267 (AH) or email gford@bigpond.net.au. You may also visit the Diamond Valley Singers' website at http://www.dvsingers.org/
[Graham Ford 080107]

GLORIANA.
Gloriana is a Melbourne-based chamber choir founded in 1994 by its director Andrew Raiskums. Gloriana's programs traverse a wide range of genres and styles but focus on the acappella performance of Renaissance and contemporary choral music. The warmth and excellence of the choir's performances have been regularly praised by audiences and critics alike. With its stone and timber interior and heritage-listed Harrison organ, St Mark’s Anglican Church Fitzroy is an ideal venue for Gloriana's performances.

If you are interested in singing with Gloriana, please note that applicants must have excellent blending and sight-reading skills. Preference is given to people able to commit themselves long-term and those with recent experience in a choir of high standard. Musicianship is more highly valued than solo ability. Please contact Andrew Raiskums via email at director@gloriana.com.au or call 0439 556 627. Rehearsals are on Monday evenings in Fitzroy.

To find out more please visit: http://www.gloriana.com.au/
[Andrew Raiskums 080107]

THE GREEN SINGERS.
"We sing exclusively environmental and social justice songs. We specialise in facilitating large groups singing to raise awareness and good feelings."

The group rehearsals at the Uniting Church Hall, High Street, Northcote, on Mondays from 7-9PM - usually during school terms.

There is no joining fee. There is a $10 tuition fee per session.

To find out more please contact Steven Lindsay, the Musical Director, on 9018 5698.
[Steven Lindsay 070306]

THE MAROONDAH SINGERS
The Maroondah Singers is a long established choir based in Melbourne's eastern suburbs. It is a mixed voice community choir dedicated to the enjoyment of choral music for both singers and listeners.

For more information please visit: http://www.maroondahsingers.org.au/
[Barb Duff 070825]

THE NORTH AND WEST MELBOURNE COMMUNITY CHOIR.
The North and West Melbourne Community Choir (Errol's Angels) has been meeting as a choir for three years. The Choir is a happy, informal group of around thiry members who sing a broad range of music 'a capella' style. The Choir performs in the local area at least four times each year. Choir sessions include singing and workshop-style activities.

The Choir Leader is Steven Lindsay who is a professional singer and pianist.

No auditions. No special requirements. The Choir extends a warm welcome to anyone who likes singing. The Choir meets on Thursday nights during school term times.

Details are as follows:
WHEN: Follows school terms dates.
TIME: 7.00-9.00PM on Thursday nights.
WHERE: North Melbourne Primary School Errol Street, North Melbourne.
COST: About $65/$50 (per term). Additional costs for materials (CDs and music).

The choir is particularly interested in hearing from you (pardon the pun!) if you can sing in the lower register. New choir members are offered a complimentary first session to see whether Errol's Angels is the sort of choir you would like to sing in.

Contact Steven on (03) 9018 5698 or 0425 73 4698, or email: singingottermusic@yahoo.com.au
[Steven Lindsay 070212]

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Film Societies

FITZROY SHORTS SCREENERS CLUB.
The Screeners Club is a great way to be involved in the Fitzroy Shorts film community. If you’re interested in making your own film, want to meet other film buffs or simply enjoy great films with other crazy cats ­ then this is the club for you!

How much does it cost to join?
It’s FREE!!

What are the benefits of joining?

You will receive:

• $2 off your ticket (full or concession) at each Fitzroy Shorts monthly screening for the whole screening calendar (March - November 2006).
• $5 off your ticket (full or concession) for the End of Year Fitz Best Short Film Awards 2006 to be held on Saturday 11th November 2006.

Email: info@fitzroyshorts.com
Website: http://fitzshorts.allmedia.com.au/blog/
[Thomas Baricevic 080104]

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Living History Groups

THE JOMSBORGELAG SUDHIRD.
The Jomsborgelag Sudhird is the Southern Levy of the Fortress of Jomsborg, originally based near Wolin in Poland on the South Baltic Sea Coast. We are historical re-enactors who portray the Jomsvikings, that is the Pirates, or Army for Hire that fought throughout the Baltic region and beyond during the 10th and 11th Centuries.

We teach Western Martial arts of the period and train in show fighting techniques (like stunt men). Every other year, we travel to Northern Europe and participate in large re-enactments (up to 1000+ people) of Viking battles with our Jomsviking brothers from all around the world. Please feel free to come and meet us on one of our training nights. For the glory of Jomsborg!
http://www.jomsborgelag.org/
[Jeff Clarke 080101]

ORDER OF THE CROWN.
The Order of the Crown is a Victorian based historical society, whose goal is to recreate every aspect of the late 14th century with clothing, furniture, arms and armour being just a few things members, through research and live testing, bring with them.

The group, founded in 2006, is one of many Australian clubs that gathers throughout the year to participate in mass combat, feasting and social events.

The Order of the Crown trains 3 times a week, most weeks, throughout the year.

There is Fitness Training on Mondays 7-8PM at Hughesdale Park, on Kangaroo Road, Murrumbeena. There is Weapons Training on Wednesday nights at the Scout Hall (7-8PM, cost $2), and Combat Training on Saturdays (2PM until late, cost $5.)

For more information, or to find out about joining the Order of the Crown, please email the Secretary, Kit Houston, on admin@crownies.org or visit the group's website at http://crownies.org/
[Kit Houston 080101]

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Pagan Groups

CRANBOURNE PAGANS IN THE PUB meet on the last Sunday in every month in the Café Section of Kelly’s Hotel which is at the corner of High Street and Childers Street, Cranbourne.

All pagans are welcome to socialise in a friendly relaxed atmosphere. Starts at 2:00PM.

For more information contact Marian Dalt at vic@paganawareness.net.au or phone 0402 587 219.
[Marian Dalt 060315]

MELBOURNE PAGANS IN THE PUB meet on the first Saturday of each month at The Old Colonial Inn, 127 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, from 2:00PM onwards.

For more information contact Colin at colin@lasielle.net or phone 0429 926 763.
[Colin 070926]

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Political, Environmental and Social Reform Groups

FRIENDS OF THE EARTH MELBOURNE.
Friends of the Earth Melbourne believes that social and environmental issues cannot be separated from each other. As a result, FoE is a social and environmental justice organisation. It seeks to work towards a sustainable and equitable future and seeks to work in a way that empowers individuals and communities. This means that FoE operates on a collective basis using consensus for decision-making.

FoE campaigns from the local to global level: it is part of the FoE Australia network, which currently includes 12 groups around the country. FoE Australia is, in turn, the national member of FoE International, which is now active in 72 countries.

Collectively, the FoE network is the largest environmental federation in the world. It has around 5,000 local branches, including the 12 in Australia. Member groups at the national level are autonomous, leading to a great diversity within the network. FoE International is active on many of the key global environmental and social issues.
http://www.melbourne.foe.org.au/
[Cam Walker 080107]

GREEN RIPPLES.
Green Ripples is a grassroots green action group in Melbourne, with the goal of creating ripples of sustainability in the community, and getting people thinking and learning ways of living in a way that is more in alignment with the planet.

They hold meetings and have a Community LiveJournal at:
http://community.livejournal.com/greenripples/
[Leanne Veitch 071111]

MAD PRIDE.
Mad Pride, rather than being a behind-the-scenes lobby group is a group of people who are publicly active in promoting pride in "psychological" variety and acceptance of variety amongst human beings in general, thus reducing the stigma of being "different" or not falling into narrowly defined norms.

It is not just for mentally ill people, but it does have a focus on mental illness. However, it is more about breaking down the barriers and labels often assigned by clinicians and therefore society, and thus it is an organisation whose membership is loose and open to anyone interested in the above mentioned topics.

We aim to have a public presence when we get the opportunity. Our next is planned for Spike Milligan's birthday. We may just walk around in funny hats (or not) blowing bubbles and handing out promotional material.
http://www.users.bigpond.com/lisui/madpride.html
[Marie Mantzioros 060118]

MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA FREECYCLE.
Freecycle™ is an email list where like-minded folk let each other know about something that they are giving away. It is a global phenomenon with over 1 million members.

The Melbourne Australia Freecycle group is the second largest outside of North America (only London is bigger).

The Freecycle Network is open to all who want to "recycle" that special something rather than throw it away. Whether it's a chair, a fax machine, piano or an old door, feel free to post it. Or maybe you're looking to acquire something yourself! Nonprofit groups are encouraged to join the network too, so they may even pick it up for you! One constraint: everything posted must be FREE!

BACKGROUND INFORMATION AT: http://searchenginez.com.au/freecycle.html
EMAIL LIST AT: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/melbourneozfreecycle/
[Michael Green 080104]

THE MELBOURNE SOCIAL FORUM.
The Melbourne Social Forum is a dynamic open space for addressing the 21st century's most pressing local and global challenges: fair trade, labour rights, environmental sustainability, global peace and human rights issues.

The mission of the Melbourne Social Forum is to create open public spaces to discuss, share and act on ideas for sustainable social and ecological justice. To do this the MSF hosts events, in public and on-line, which bring together progressive individuals and groups from within civil society in the Melbourne area and beyond.

We have monthly meetings, so contact us to get involved.

Email: info@melbournesocialforum.org
Website: http://www.melbournesocialforum.org/
[Martin Pritchard 080228]

REFUGEE ACTION COLLECTIVE.
The Refugee Action Collective (RAC) was established in mid-2000. It is an open grassroots collective of a broad cross-section of the community, who share a common aim of changing the Australian government's policy towards refugees.

RAC believes there is growing support for refugees in the Australian community, and RAC organises events and actions to both extend this support and provide a public and strong manifestation of it.

RAC's basic demands are:

• to end mandatory detention.
• to close the detention camps.
• to abolish temporary visas.
• to let the asylum-seekers' boats land.
• to fight racist scapegoating.

RAC employs a diverse range of tactics including petitions, mass protests and civil disobedience actions. RAC works to build alliances with a range of other groups. In particular they have worked well with a range of unions and have strongly supported indigenous groups and their initiatives for land rights and justice.

For more information please email refugeeaction@mail.com or visit http://www.rac-vic.org/
[Michael Green 080104]

SOCIALIST ALTERNATIVE.
Socialist Alternative are a Australian group of revolutionary socialists who reckon that society should be driven by human need - not profit. We think that "surplus" food which is produced should be given to the hungry, rather than dumped in the middle of the ocean to keep prices high. We think that the people who produce all the wealth in the world - ie workers - should have control over what happens to it. We think that ordinary people around the world - from Australia, to South Korea, to the Balkans - have more in common with each other, than they do with the governments and business leaders of their own countries.

Not so crazy, huh? We have regular meetings where we try to apply a Marxist analysis to political questions today. We're active on university campuses, in trade unions and in whatever radical campaigns are happening - over the past decade, our members have been involved in such campaigns as the opposition to the Jabiluka uranium mine, the anti-globalisation protests and, more recently, two anti-war campaigns and the Refugee Action Collective.

If you agree with this, you should get in contact with us. We're always keen to meet people, to discuss our ideas, and to get new people involved in whatever struggle is happening.
http://www.sa.org.au/
[Alison 080107]

THE UNDERGROWTH.
The Undergrowth collective is an evolving organism of writers, artists, media makers and cutting edge ontological guerrillas.

Undergrowth publishes an online and print magazine containing the best short fiction, journalism, poetry, visual art, photography, comics and esoterica from Australia's counter-cultural underground. Undergrowth also hosts an e-book library of emerging and established authors in downloadable PDF form, on-line art galleries of contributing artists, music videos, spoken word and audio interviews available as podcasts, video documentary clips, 'nu media' and animations, community forums and Nomadology, featuring traveller's blogs examining the world around us.

We are all change agents. Engage the flow and swim with it. In it. Become it...

{we live not Underground, but in the Undergrowth}

Website: http://www.undergrowth.org/
[Rak Razam 080107]

VEGETARIAN NETWORK VICTORIA INC.
Vegetarian Network Victoria Inc. (VNV), founded in 1998, is a not-for-profit organisation based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It is run by people who care about human health, animal welfare and the environment. Our aim is to promote the many benefits of vegetarianism, and provide quality service, support and up-to-date
information to vegetarians, vegans and the general community.

What we do:

• Promote vegetarian lifestyles as a more healthy, humane and environmentally friendly way of living.
• Provide and distribute up-to-date information relevant to vegetarians and those interested in vegetarianism.
• Promote vegetarian foods and related businesses and services.
• Provide support by answering questions (via email, telephone, post).
• Provide a support network for vegetarians.
• Organise regular social events.

To find out more please visit: http://www.vnv.org.au/
[Meghan Street 080128]

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Role-Playing Societies

THE LEAGUE OF ANCIENTS.
The LEAGUE OF ANCIENTS is a non-profit wargames club for members who enjoy historical wargaming with miniatures. They usually meet every third Sunday of the month at Club Tivoli, 291 Dandenong Road, Windsor from 10AM ( Melway reference Map 58 G8). A variety of games covering the ancients and medieval periods, the wars of the rennaisance, Napoleonics and World War II are usually on offer. "New members are always welcome and the beer is always cold!" For more information email webmaster@leagueofancients.org.au or visit http://www.leagueofancients.org.au/
[Michael Green 071120]

MYSTERIUM MAGNUM (Camarilla).
The Camarilla Australia is a Live Action Role Playing game - "a game in which players take on the roles of imagined characters, usually in a setting created by a referee/Story Teller, and thereby vicariously
experience the adventures of these characters."

The Mysterium Magnum society plays three main games - Vampire the Requiem, Werewolf the Forsaken, and Mage the Awakening. All are written by White-Wolf™.

Live Action Role Playing (LARP) is amateur theatre - a medium based on physical improvisation and full interactivity between characters. LARP exists around the world in a wide variety of forms and all share the characteristics that some kind of improvised acting is implied, the improvisers portray specific characters during the event and if there is a non-participating audience, their presence bears no relevance for the improvisers.

The actors of a LARP are also its audience - the people for whom the LARP exists. Unlike improvised drama exercises and devising theatre, the improvisation which occurs during a LARP is the end product. There will usually be one or several organisers who deal with the logistics of the event, and a creative unit who runs the story. Most LARP have rules by which they run, which define the game and the setting. In the Camarilla, we use the Mind’s Eye Theatre™ rules.

The Camarilla is an international social organisation sanctioned by White Wolf, Inc. which revolves around the gothic-horror genre set in White Wolf's World of Darkness. It is a continuous Live-Action Role-Playing (LARP) game that spans ten countries on five continents.

The Camarilla Australia accepts members regardless of race, religion, disability, sex or creed. In all matters, the Camarilla is non-discriminatory in its outlook and its administration.

(Due to mature themes experienced in role playing, the Camarilla Australia will not accept persons under the age of 18 as members.)

For more information visit their wiki at: http://melbourne.camarilla.org.au/
[Shaun Donaldson 080107]

NUNAWADING WARGAMES ASSOCIATION.
The Nunawading Wargames Association Inc. (NWA) is a non-profit club for those who enjoy wargaming socially with miniatures on the tabletop. Some members of the club also enjoy role playing games.

Wargaming attracts people of all ages and backgrounds. NWA wargames cover historical periods including Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, Richard the Lionheart, Oliver Cromwell, Marlborough, Napoleon and Rommel. Science fiction and fantasy role-playing games such as Warhammer, Necromunda and Lord of the Rings are also played.

The NWA meets weekly at two venues in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne on Friday evenings and all day Saturday (on alternate weekends).

The Friday meetings take place at the Mountview Uniting Church Hall, on the corner of Maroondah Highway and Doncaster East Roads, Mitcham from 7PM to 12 midnight.

The Saturday meetings take place at the Croydon Uniting Church Hall, Talent Street, Croydon, from 11AM to 5PM. (The finishing time may change - to 4:30PM - on very short notice, due to functions at the venue.)

For more information please send an email to enquiry@nwa.org.au or visit the website at http://www.nwa.org.au/
[Michael Green 080107]

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Science Fiction, Fantasy and Horror Fandom

AUSTREK.
AUSTREK, the Star Trek Fan Club, is a not-for-profit organisation based in Melbourne, Australia. It meets on the first Saturday of each month at the Northcote Town Hall. Meetings usually run from 2 - 5 PM.

Established in 1976, AUSTREK is a social club for individuals of all ages and from many different walks of life who share a common interest in the television and movie franchise known as STAR TREK.

AUSTREK is a great way for STAR TREK fans to meet regularly and join in on activities such as trivia, costumes, quizzes, alien make-up techniques, conventions, picnics, mystery coach tours, phaser-strike tournaments, social BBQ's, debates, costumed film premieres and heaps heaps more is what you're in for as an AUSTREK member.

You'll also get our regular newsletter, The Captain's Log. The Captain's Log contains Trek and general Science Fiction news, reviews, letters, articles, club news and lots more. In your Log you'll also find information on social activities, regular meetings and special events, especially upcoming conventions.

As well, your AUSTREK membership card will get you discounts on Star Trek merchandise and services from participating businesses around Melbourne.

Membership of AUSTREK costs $30 a year for singles (concession $25), or $35 for families (concession $30).

Events cost $3 for members and $5 for visitors.

POSTAL ADDRESS:
AUSTREK, GPO Box 5206, Melbourne, Victoria, 3001.

Phone: (03) 9548 3721.
Email: austrek1976@hotmail.com
Website: http://www.austrek.org/
[Scott Liston 080204]

THE DOCTOR WHO CLUB OF VICTORIA (DWCV).
The Doctor Who Club of Victoria, Inc., has been going since 1980. Membership of the DWCV costs $20 a year for singles ($30 for families) and entitles you to six copies of the club fanzine Sonic Screwdriver and discounts at various shops on Doctor Who related merchandise.

MAILING ADDRESS:
Doctor Who Club of Victoria
PO Box 734
Niddrie, Vic. 3042.

The club runs social activities regularly and these are advertised in Sonic and on the club's website.

*Activities will be listed in the CALENDAR.

For more information please visit http://home.vicnet.net.au/~dwcv/
[Michael Green 080109]

MELBOURNE ANIME SOCIETY.
The Melbourne Anime Society meets on the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month at Northcote Town Hall, 189 High Street, Northcote 3070 (Melway ref.30 E9) from 1pm to 6pm to watch Japanese animation. (The Society does not meet on the 4th week in December, nor near Easter, nor during the weekend of the Manifest Anime Convention.)

Membership of the society costs $15 a year, or $10 for students and unemployed people. There is a door fee at screenings of $4 for members, $6 for non-members, $5 for non-members accompanying members, or $4 for members of other recognised Anime clubs (just show your card).

*Screening dates will be listed in the CALENDAR.

For more information contact the Secretary on masinfo@metva.com.au, visit the Society's website at http://www.mas.org.au/ or just turn up at a meeting.
[Michael Green 080109]

MELBOURNE SCIENCE FICTION CLUB.
The Melbourne Science Fiction Club (MSFC) has been running for over 50 years and is open to SF and fantasy fans of all ages.

The club meets most Friday nights at St. David's United Church Hall, 74 Melville Road, Brunswick West. Doors open at 8PM, with most meetings and activities kicking off no later than 9PM. Doors close at 11PM. Apart from activities the MSFC has a library of over 8,000 SF and Fantasy books which members are free to borrow.

Visitors and curious persons are always welcome.

*Activities will be listed in the CALENDAR.

(The Church Hall is accessible by public transport. Catch the Number 55 tram from William Street in the CBD and alight at stop number 36 in Brunswick West. There is also limited off-street parking for drivers.)

Membership of the MSFC is $30 for a single person, or $40 for a family. Membership entitles you to six issues a year of the club fanzine Ethel the Aardvark, and discounts at a number of Science-fiction bookshops in Melbourne.

For more information visit the club's website at http://www.vicnet.net.au/~msfc/
[John Gibbins 060301]

SPACED OUT.
Spaced Out is Australia's first science fiction club for gays, lesbians and their friends.

There is a $5 joining fee, then it costs $20 for an annual membership. ($15 concession.)

MAILING ADDRESS:
Space Out Inc.
PO Box 111
Glenhuntly, Vic. 3163.

Spaced Out offers monthly meetings, a newsletter called "Diverse Universe" and publishes an annual anthology called "Solar Spectrum."

*Events will be listed in the CALENDAR.

For more information and to explore some of the club's creative work visit http://www.spacedoutinc.org/
[Scott Ross 060108]

STAR WALKING INC.
(The Star Wars Appreciation Society of Australia.)
Star Walking Inc. is a non-profit fan club that was founded in 1988. It is a social fan club for people who have an interest in the Star Wars movies, books, computer games, fan films and comics.

Star Walking publishes a quarterly journal called "The Force" and also hold meetings (called Skyforce) in Melbourne and Sydney.

MAILING ADDRESS:
Star Walking Inc.
P.O. Box 427
Northcote, Victoria, 3070
Australia

Phone: 0500 553 347.
Fax: (03) 9330 2420.
Email: starwalking@starwalking.net
Website: http://www.starwalking.net/
[Beky Tully-Gibbens 060220]

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Scientific Societies

SCIENCE ISSUES CAFE is a monthly discussion group in North Carlton (Melbourne, Australia) which allows lay people to get together and hear about the latest research or discuss the big issues in science today.

Each month there is a presentation by a scientist about his or her field, who then leads the discussion.

Meetings are on the third Friday of the month at Princes Hill Community Centre (rear 270 MacPherson Street, North Carlton) from 7:30PM.

Donation: $5-$10.

Come along and join them for a glass of wine and a good discussion!

To find out more please email kh@netspace.net.au or visit http://scienceissues.net/
[Kaye 061126]

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Theatrical Societies

1812 THEATRE COMPANY.
The 1812 Theatre Limited is one of the most successful community theatre companies in Australia with a history that spans over 60 years. They present four productions each year, each one running for 23 performances.

The theatre is located at 3 Rose Street, Upper Ferntree Gully, Vic. 3156.

It is a subscription theatre company. Subscriptions cost $5 per household per year, and new subscribers are welcome. Tickets are $20 each (including GST) and pre-show drinks, a programme, and a light supper after the show (where you can meet the cast) are all included in the price.

Subscribers receive a newsletter and a booking slip for each show.

The shows planned for 2008 are:

1. March 13th to April 19th - "No Love Lost" by Rony Robinson.
2. June 3rd to July 5th - "Arsenic & Old Lace" By Joseph Kesselring.
3. August 21st to September 20th - "The Lady in the Van" by Alan Bennet.
4. November 4th to December 6th - "Two and Two Together"
   By Derek Benfied.

To find out more about each play and to become a subscriber please ring (03) 9758 3964, send an email to admin@1812theatre.com.au , or visit the website http://www.1812theatre.com.au/
[Vicky 080218]

THE A-MUSE THEATRE GROUP INC.
The A-Muse Theatre Group Inc. was co-founded in 2004 by Helen Walker and Michelle Weaver. It is a 'not-for-profit' company whose philosophy is to provide opportunities for everyone to explore their own creativity and self-expression within community theatre.

A-Muse Theatre encourages its members to achieve their very best by sharing experiences and helping others where ever possible.

The A-Muse Theatre Group's next production will be called A-MuseAbility. This new and innovative community arts project will provide support and opportunities for people with physical and intellectual disabilities. The project will be a variety performance over three shows showing a diversity of talent and art forms such as, dance, poetry, music, storytelling, film, and song.

For more information ring (03) 9808 5804 or email a-muse@optusnet.com.au and visit http://www.a-muse.com.au/
[Michelle Weaver 061008]

ALTONA CITY THEATRE.
Altona City Theatre is an amateur theatre group which presents three shows a year. The group is based, performs, rehearses and runs auditions at the Altona Theatre in Civic Parade, Altona.

It produces two large scale musicals a year (in July and October), and a children's Pantomine to coincide with the Hobson's Bay Festival in March.

The shows for 2008 include:

• "Sleeping Beauty" (March 28th to April 12th).
• "Cats" (July 4th to July 26th).

ACT also has a very successful junior theatre programme called ACTion where children aged 8 to 18 attend Saturday classes where they learn all aspects of theatre, including acting, singing, dancing, costuming, set design and construction, lighting, audio, direction, choreography, film and TV skills, cabaret, street theatre, juggling, stilt walking, acrobalance and more.

POSTAL ADDRESS:
PO Box 73,
Altona, Victoria, 3018.

PHONE NUMBERS:
Theatre/tickets: 0425 705 550.
Email: secretary@altonacitytheatre.com.au

For ACTion:
Enquiries: 0432 623 327.
Email: action@altonacitytheatre.com.au

Website for ACT and ACTion: http://www.altonacitytheatre.com.au/
[Adrienne Williamson 080218]

ARC THEATRE.
ARC (Amateur Repertory Company Inc) is an established youth theatre company operating in the Northern Suburbs of Melbourne, Australia. It aims to involve young people (mainly ages 15-28) in all aspects of theatre performance, production and organisational activities.

ARC currently runs an annual musical production, a singing group (ARCappella), an original and Australian plays program and various social and recreational activities for its members.

ARC was founded in 1996 and is an incorporated association.

ARC staged "Cabaret" in July 2007.

For more information email info@arc-theatre.com or visit their website at: http://www.arc-theatre.com/
[Sebastian Dworkin 070107]

(See also Arts Access above )

BABIRRA MUSIC THEATRE.
Babirra Music Theatre Inc. is a non-professional music theatre company. They perform two musicals a year as well as the occasional concert throughout the year.

They are a non profit organisation bound by their constitution to gather a group of persons of common musical and dramatic interest for mutual enjoyment through the production of opera, operetta and musical comedy, and for the purpose of aiding church, charitable or any other organisation approved by the Committee of Management.

Babirra rehearses at the Highfield Road Uniting Church, Canterbury and performs at the Whitehorse Centre in Nunawading, Victoria. Every show produced has a minimum of a 12 weeks rehearsal period with 2 to 3 rehearsals per week. Rehearsals are held on Monday and Thursday evenings and Sunday afternoons.

A part of Babirra's charter is to provide quality entertainment at economical prices, providing enjoyable performance participation for its members as well as being the spring-board for future careers. They have launched many successful careers in Performance, Scenic Design, Lighting and Staging.

Babirra will be performing "The Merry Widow" from May 30th to June 7th 2008!

Please ring (03) 9802 1203 for more information or visit http://www.babirra.org.au/
[Lois Moran 080218]

BATS THEATRE COMPANY.
BATS Theatre Company is based in Narre Warren.

In 2008 BATS will be performing four plays. The first will be "Snow White" from March 25 to 28.

(BATS Theatre has an email newsletter which will keep you up-to-date with shows and performances.)

POSTAL ADDRESS:
BATS Theatre Company
PO Box 58, LPO Webb Street
Narre Warren Vic 3805

PHONE: 03 9755 2282
EMAIL: info@batstheatre.org.au
WEBSITE: http://www.batstheatre.org.au/
[Michael Green 080218]

BEAUMARIS THEATRE INC.
We are an amateur theatre company. We produce 5 seasons of shows each year - comedies, dramas, shows tailored to give children the opportunity to act, revues, etc. This also includes an Anonymous Theatre night (the actors rehearse individually with the director and only meet each other as the curtains open on the night).

We welcome experienced actors, directors and technical crews, as well as young people and those with little or no experience who would like to learn theatre craft, to our theatre. To this end we provide training and mentoring in the areas in which people would like to become involved.

We meet at 82 Wells Rd, Beaumaris, 3193.

It costs $15.00 a year to join our group.

For more information please call Janine Chugg, President, on 9583 6896. Leave a message and your call will be returned.

Theatre is a great way of meeting like-minded people, learning new skills, and gaining in self-confidence. It is also a lot of fun.

The 2008 shows are:

Season 1: "The Day of the Triffids", adapted by Shaun Prendergast from the novel by John Wyndham, and directed by Janine Chugg. With kind permission of the Estate of John Wyndham. 22 February - 8 March.

Season 2: "'Night, Mother" by Marsha Norman, and directed by Shane Ryan. 2 - 17 May

Season 3: "Bedside Manners" by Derek Benfield, and directed by Brian Uniacke. The 4th Annual Anonymous Theatre Production will be staged on Saturday 8 June, then ensemble rehearsed on July 4, 5.

Season 4: "Anne of Green Gables" adapted by Joseph Robinette from the book by LM Montgomery, and directed by Debbie Keyt. 29 August - 13 September.

Season 5: The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society's production of 'A Christmas Carol', by David McGillivray & Walter Zerlin Jnr, and directed by Robyn Morris. 21 November - 6 December. Cabaret seating.

Ticket prices for 2008:
Adults $18 / Family (2 adults + 2 children under 16) $55 / All other tickets (Members / Children / Concessions / Groups) $15.

Email: beaumaristheatre@optusnet.com.au
Website: http://www.beaumaristheatre.com.au/
[Janine Chugg 080225]

BLUE CHAIR THEATRE.
Blue Chair Theatre is an independent theatre company based in Melbourne. It was founded in 1991 by Allan Kerr and Kylie Trask, and is devoted to bringing the works of new playwrights to life and to staging fresh and innovative interpretations of classical plays.

Blue Chair Theatre has a simple aim ... to entertain the audience!

To find out more please visit http://www.bluechairtheatre.com/
[Allan Kerr 061008]

CLOC MUSICAL THEATRE.
CLOC Musical Theatre is one of Victoria's largest and most successful non-professional music theatre companies. Established in 1964, CLOC originally performed in church halls and school stages, but now commands Monash University's 500 seat Alexander Theatre.

Since its inception, CLOC has staged over eighty productions, ranging from operettas such as Die Fledermaus and The Merry Widow to contemporary works such as Evita, Chess and Les Miserables. Moreover, the company has presented several firsts in Melbourne non-professional theatre. In 1983 CLOC premiered Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd ­ the first production in Australia. Other non-professional premieres followed: Annie (1985), 1776 (1988), Sunday in the Park with George (1992), Song and Dance (1997), Singin' in the Rain (1998), Gigi (2003) and Steel Pier (2005).

CLOC has adopted a bold production policy and is committed to presenting two major musicals each year.

The 2008 production will include:

THE BOY FROM OZ (May 9-25).
This electrifying musical from the writers of Dusty, is based on the life of Australia's own rock legend, Johnny O'Keefe and is set against a background of the birth of Australian rock 'n' roll with the songs you swooned to as teenagers: She's My Baby, The Wild One, Sing Sing Sing, She Wears My Ring, Get a Job, I'm Counting on You, Save the Last Dance and many more.

For enquiries ring 1300 362 547 or visit http://www.cloc.org.au/
[Sandra Davies 080225]

ELTHAM LITTLE THEATRE.
Eltham Little Theatre is a non-profit, non-professional theater organisation based in Research, north-east of Melbourne, Australia.

We are committed to quality and enjoyable productions. Every year volunteers work together to put on 5 productions including our traditional music hall melodrama with "cabaret" style seating and our Youth Group production. This year, we welcome the addition of three one-act plays to be performed both on our stage and in various festivals.

The 2008 season features these productions:

• 21 February - 8 March. PLAY 1: "Jack's High" by Joe Fairhurst. Directed by Joe Fairhurst.

• 24 April - 10 May. PLAY 2: "Absurd Person Singular" by Alan Ayckbourn. Directed by Gareth Wilding-Forbes

• 15 - 17 May. ONE ACT PLAYS. A season of one-act plays by debut directors.

• 11 - 20 July. PLAY 3 (YOUTH THEATRE): "Sheik, Rattle n Roll" by S. Denver & I. Dorricott. Directed by Gayle Poor & Lois Fleming.

• 4 - 12 September. PLAY 4: "The Shoe Horn Sonata" by John Misto. Directed by Roderick Chappel.

• 6 November - 6 December. MUSIC HALL: "Deadwood Dick" by Tom Taggart. Directed by Don Harrod.

Performances are held at the Eltham Performing Arts Centre at 1602 Main Road, Research 3095. (Melway 22 H1.)

Tickets cost $20 (ADULTS) and $16 (CONCESSION - except for Music Hall.) For bookings ring (03) 9437 1574 or email ticket secretary on ticketbox@elthamlittletheatre.org.au

(Members of Eltham Little Theatre can attend the opening nights of Plays 1,2 and 3 free - and also receive a newsletter "Chookas" every two months. Members costs $25 (FAMILY) or $15 (PENSIONERS/CONCESSION.))

For more information about Eltham Little Theatre please email Paula Armstrong on webmistress@elthamlittletheatre.org.au or visit the website at http://www.elthamlittletheatre.org.au/
[Paula Armstrong 080218]

FRANKSTON THEATRE GROUP.
For more than sixty years the Frankston Theatre Group, (FTG) has provided opportunities for involvement in community theatre. Starting with a fundraising activity for the Red Cross in 1942, the group quickly developed with the enthusiastic support of the Frankston Community.

FTG was a founding member member of the Victorian Drama League and hosted their early one act play festivals that ran for several weeks, drawing entrants from all over the metropolitan area. The group presents three to four productions annually, including seasons of one act or short plays, providing an ideal showcase for new actors and directors.

Encouraged by their experiences in community theatre, many members have gone on to undertake formal studies and pursue professional careers in the performing arts.

Participation provides the opportunity to develop skills in both the technical and performance areas of community theatre. You can develop skills in areas such as: Administration, Costume design, Front of house, Make up and hair design, Performance, Set design and construction, or Technical support (e.g lighting, sound). You will also develop your self confidence, self-esteem, and public speaking skills.

The Frankston Theatre Group is located in Overport Park at the corner of Somerset and Overport Roads, Frankston. They are housed in an Aluminium shed (The Shed) next door to PLOS Musical Productions (on your left as you enter the park). Melway Reference: 102 D12.

The Frankston Theatre Group's 2008 Season includes:

"The Removalists" by David Williamson (April 11th to 19th).

"Tom Jones" by Joan McAlpine (July 11th to 19th).

"Out of Order" by Ray Cooney (November 21st to December 6th.)

POSTAL ADDRESS:
Frankston Theatre Group
P.O Box 177
Frankston, 3199.

Phone: (03) 9775 2189.
Website: http://frankstontheatregroup.org.au/
[Michael Green 080229]

STAR PLAYERS.
"We are an amateur theatre group that produces 1 show (6 performances) in July of each year. We welcome anyone, no auditions are necessary to join, we just ask for 100% commitment and dedication to attendance at rehearsals and all our working bees. We are a not-for-profit group, and all our profits go to various charities around Melbourne.

"We are based at St.Anthony's Parish Hall, 90 Buckley Street, Noble Park. Rehearsals are usually held on Sundays from March to July. They start at 7:30PM during the months of March & April and go through till 10PM. Rehearsal times change to 1:30PM in the later months.

"To be a part of our cast, all we ask for is $20 to cover such things as tea and coffee at rehearsals.

"30,000 people have seen our shows between 1985-2006. They have been entertained by a production which has been written by cast members and comprises of song, dance and comedy routines woven together by a central story."

For more information please contact Kellie Tabone on 0412 798 530 or email kellmike@bigpond.net.au, or visit http://www.starplayers.org.au/
[Kellie Tabone 070711]

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Underground Journalism and eZines

ATOMIC THREAT WEBZINE.
Atomic Threat is a new webzine which contains features on art, books, music, and films. (More information can be found at: http://www.myspace.com/atomicthreat )

There are no issues of the zine, it is updated constantly.

ADDRESS: Atomic Threat Webzine, PO Box 256, Flinders Lane VIC 8009.

http://www.atomicthreat.com/
[Michael Green 060907]

BEAT MAGAZINE.
Beat Magazine is Melbourne's "biggest streetpaper." It contains music news, arts and feature articles, comprehensive gig and club guides, and reviews of bands and venues.
http://www.beat.com.au/
[Michael Green 060412]

THE BIG ISSUE AUSTRALIA.
Launched in 1996, The Big Issue Australia, is edited in Melbourne! It provides a welcome alternative to the mainstream media and a helping-hand to the people who sell it on street corners in the CBD. You can either buy it from one of these vendors, or take out a subscription like me. http://www.bigissue.org.au/
[Michael Green 060213]

BONZER!
A monthly e-zine devoted to entertaining and empowering seniors. It is published in Melbourne but it invites contributions from seniors world-wide.
http://www.bonzer.org.au/
[Michael Green 051201]

CINEPHILIA.
A Melbourne-based film-review site specializing in independent, art-house, cult, classic and Australian films.
http://www.cinephilia.net.au/
[Michael Green 060106]

CORDITE POETRY REVIEW.
Cordite Press Inc. is a Melbourne-based poetry publisher dedicated to showing off new and established Australian writers to the world. Its "flagship" publication, Cordite Poetry Review, began in 1997 as a print journal based in Sydney. A total of six issues were published in a broadsheet format.

In 2000, Cordite moved to an Internet format, presenting poetry from Australia and abroad on a free, web-based platform. Cordite #12, our Test Match issue, was the first to use a free web-based publishing application called Movable Type. This shift has meant that a great deal of our production process is now transparent - so you get to see a whole lot more of our experiments and mistakes!
http://www.cordite.org.au/
[Michael Green 070404]

GEEKGIRL.
Operating from North Fitzroy this ezine has been described as "an online media depot,cyberfeminist zine and resource portal about women, technology and cyberlifestyles with the best in leading writers, designers and thinkers."
http://www.geekgirl.com.au/
[Michael Green 051221]

GLASS WINGS.
"Many fairytales speak of a book that continuously writes itself for the delight of whoever possesses it. We like to imagine our site as being just such a book, only with a variety of chapters and topics all expanding at once as we have the opportunity to present our newest creations to you. It is our desire that in this way we shall rekindle people's appreciation of love, fun, beauty, wisdom and imagination. It is with great pleasure that we present to you our finest work.

"Glass Wings exists to publish and distribute selected art and literature online. We are particularly interested in material of a positive and joyous nature and are exploring ways in which computer technology can be effectively used to support the process and expand the possibilities for creating art and literature. We seek to make our material available globally and continuously for posterity."
http://www.glasswings.com.au/
[Katherine Phelps 060315]

IS NOT MAGAZINE.
Is Not Magazine is pasted to oversized poster sites in Melbourne for the first two weeks of the two months that the issue is in circulation. It is also available for purchase from a handful of exclusive bookshops.
http://www.isnotmagazine.org/
[Michael Green 060113]

MEDIASEARCH.
Based in Melbourne Mediasearch is one of Australia's leading alternative source of entertainment news and events in music, film and fashion.

It offers an overview of music, films, and fashion in Australia.

Music coverage includes CD reviews and spotlight interviews with artists and bands plus pictures, and news on concerts and festivals.

For films there are reviews, interviews and pictures, plus news on specialty videos and movie memorabilia.

As for fashion, it covers events in Melbourne with news and pictures.

Email: info@mediasearch.com.au
Website: http://www.mediasearch.com.au/
[Michael Green 060125]

MELBOURNE INDYMEDIA.
Melbourne Indymedia is a website for radical reportage and analysis of current events. Against the biases of the corporate media controlled by profit, Indymedia gives people the opportunity to tell their own stories for themselves.
http://www.melbourne.indymedia.org/
[Mim 060117]

MELBOURNE STAGE.
"Melbourne Stage is the place to find out about the latest plays, comedies, musicals, and dance showing in theatres in Melbourne, as well as news, theatre reviews, event advertising, auditions and drama classes."
http://www.melbournestage.com.au/
[Michael Green 060412]

(See also Senses of Cinema)

THREE THOUSAND.
An e-zine on what's "cool" and what's "fool" from a group of Melbourne youth marketing gurus.

It will fascinate you, amuse you, or make you very angry depending on how you feel about the concept of marketing "cool" - http://www.threethousand.com.au/
[Michael Green 060208]

TOXIC CUSTARD.
A humour e-zine, produced by Daniel Bowen of Melbourne, which covers a wide variety of topics, from parody to political satire to social comment. Contains some colourful language.
http://www.toxiccustard.com/
[Michael Green 060125]

UN MAGAZINE.
un Magazine is a free quarterly arts journal unlike any other. It is available in print format from major contemporary art spaces in Melbourne, or PDF versions of current and older issues can be downloaded from their website.

ADDRESS:
un Magazine
PO Box 2016
NORTH MELBOURNE
VICTORIA 3051

Email: lilyhibberd@eudoramail.com
Phone: 0412 714 767
http://www.unmagazine.org/
[Lily Hubberd 060507]

(See also The Undergrowth)

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Writers' Groups

MELBOURNE POET'S UNION.
The Melbourne Poet's Union is a not-for-profit organization for poets staffed by a volunteer committee. It has 220 members, most based in and around Melbourne but there are a number of members in regional Victoria, and others scattered throughout all states and territories.

The Melbourne Poet's Union has a mission to work with emerging and established poets by:

• providing a meeting place for poets.
• conducting monthly Readings or Workshops.
• providing news and discussions through the monthly newsletter POAM.
• providing opportunities for publication.
• supporting the principle of payment of poets for their work.
• promoting links between the Melbourne Poets Union and sister organisations in other states.

ADDRESS:
Melbourne Poets Union
PO Box 266
Flinders Lane
Melbourne
VIC 8009

EMAIL: mpuinc@yahoo.com
WEBSITE: http://home.vicnet.net.au/~mpuinc/MPU/Home.html
[Leon Shann 070110]

(See also The Undergrowth)

VICTORIAN WRITERS' CENTRE.
The Victorian Writers' Centre (VWC) is a not-for-profit organisation which assists writers through the various stages of their development. It is located at 37 Swanston Street, Melbourne - and provides information and professional development services for aspiring and established writers.

Membership costs $55 a year for individuals ($42 concession) or $36 for regional members.

The Centre publishes a monthly magazine called "Victorian Writer" and runs courses. The website at http://www.writers-centre.org/ provides useful information and contacts for aspiring writers.
[Michael Green 060309]

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