Can you cut 1 Tonne of carbon pollution out of your life?
Take the challengeA good cause is a good way to meet good people, says Amy Molloy.
Are you having a social slump? It happens to the best of us! A few years ago, when my previous relationship broke down, I looked around the rooms of my life and realised they were, well, pretty empty. It was partly (completely) my fault. After a decade of focusing on my career, I hadn't put any energy into nurturing long-term friendships.
This left me with a problem that you might be able to relate to. How can you make new, platonic relationships as an adult – with funny and kind-hearted people, who don't take themselves too seriously but also have an ethical backbone? Asking for too much?
What if I could tell you that it's possible to overhaul your social circle in one weekend (without any awkward small talk). I discovered the best way to meet good people is by joining a good cause. Add to your diary. . .
FRIDAY MORNING: One Wave is All it Takes
Every Friday at 6.30am at beaches across Australia (Bondi, Perth, Lennox Head, Alex Head and Manly) a gang of surfers run into the waves wearing ridiculous florescent outfits, from all-in-one Stretcheyz to pink tutus (on the men!). Welcome to #FluroFriday, a weekend hangout run by One Wave Is All it Takes. The group, started by Bondi locals Grant Trebilco and Sammy Schumacher, aims to raise awareness of mental health issues (Grant suffers from Bipolar Disorder and that surfing not only helped him to cope but also helped him to discuss it with his mates). You don't need to suffer from anxiety to join in, and neither do you need to be a good surfer. Swimmers, yoga lovers and spectators are all welcome (it's not unheard of to see someone riding a giant inflatable swan).
FRIDAY NIGHT: Think, Act, Change.
The brainchild of social entrepreneur Avis Mulhall, this is monthly meet-up brings together 'change makers, thinkers, innovators, entrepreneurs or anyone passionate about social innovation.' But don't let that line-up intimidate you! It's basically a very casual, chaired conversation about a range of topics, from the asylum seeking debate to climate change and ethical fashion (with craft beer or whiskey cocktails). After a brief hiatus, Think Act Change is returning on October 30 when it hosts a 'F*ck up night.' What's the F? On the evening there are two rules: you must meet one new person and you must share with them a time you f-ed up in life. What better icebreaker than admitting that none of us are perfect? Tickets available here.
SATURDAY DAYTIME: Illawarra Intrepid Landcare
I admit I was nervous the first time I joined Illawarra Intrepid Landcare – a group of young volunteers who travel the country assisting landcare groups during one or two day get-togethers. I am not a gardener and have zero knowledge of Australian bushland. But, as I discovered, knowledge is not necessary – as long as you're willing to get your hands dirty.
At the beginning of each project, the group's founder, Megan Rowlatt offers an idiot-proof guide to the task you'll be undertaking (this could be pulling weeds in a glow worm tunnel or kayaking to a water-ringed areas of the National Park to do bush regeneration work. It's also a great option if your social life is on a shoestring as main meals and accommodation are usually covered. I won't say it's easy (Lantana is a mean enemy!) but the dynamic of the group makes it worth it. You'll laugh until your stomach muscles hurt more than your arms do. . .
SUNDAY AFTERNOON: Responsible Runners
Another group for beach lovers, Responsible Runners is the brainchild of Justin Bonsey and Tom Stranger who, during a beach run nearly four years ago were astonished by the amount of litter on Bondi beach – so decided to pick it up as they run. Since then RR has grown into a country wide community. Every Sunday afternoon hundred of volunteers meet at beaches across Australia (times and location on the website). Despite the name, the majority of people walk instead of run (it's hard to hold a conversation if you're gasping!) It could even end in an extended adventure. Last year, a group of Responsible Runners hiked 140km across the Tarkine rainforest in Tasmania to raise awareness of a threat to the area. I was one of them, as was my now-fiancé. So you could say my mission to meet new people worked out quite well. . .
[Image: Responsible Runners]
[Header Image: 14er Yoga Gurus]
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