Rotaract & Young Members Events @RICON 2023
We’re so excited to welcome you to Melbourne this May for the Rotary International Convention 2023!
We have some amazing social events we have organised for all of our Rotaractors and young Rotary Members located in Melbourne during the week! And a collection of budget tours for those arriving in Australia early, or staying back in Melbourne after Convention.
For Quality and Cost Effective Accommodation close to all the Convention action, we recommend YHA Melbourne Central.
Use code ROTARY2023 for 10% off your booking.
Please Note: The YHA booking system has dynamic pricing that adjusts every hour based on demand.
Free Public Transportation, Source: Rotary International
Let’s take a closer look at the events we have organised:
  | Ever wanted to see a kangaroo or wombat? Well, here's your chance to see them at Melbourne Zoo along with other iconic Aussie wildlife such as koalas, emus, drop bears and Tassie devils. Australia's oldest zoo is also home to a variety of animals from around the world and is a world-leading zoo-based conservation not-for-profit organisation, dedicated to fighting wildlife extinction. Preventing the spread of animal Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Ticket Price includes the entry fee. Please budget for your own food and drink for the day. |
  | Join us for a group meetup in a couple of Melbourne City's Rooftop Bars as we get to know each other on the night before Day 1 of the Convention. This bar night is a great way to meet new Rotaractors and other young members attending the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne. Drinks are available at bar prices. Event Numbers are capped, and the bar will only admit entry with a ticket - so don't delay to register! |
  | Join this tour to explore Melbourne’s beautiful and iconic lane-ways. These small lane-ways colourfully characterise the spirit of Melbourne! Marvel at creative talented displays of street art, sip on some of the best coffee and delight yourself with restaurants and cafes that embody a proud mix of culture. While the tour aims to run for an hour, our small group size means attendees can indicate what interests them the most so we can spend time accordingly. Attendees are also welcome to split off at any point if they find a shop or cafe that draws them in, as everyone there will receive a marked map they can follow later if they wish. Please budget for your food, drinks and if you want to go shopping, we recommend bringing a visa/mastercard as a small amount of stores may not accept cash. |
  | Soak up the pulsating excitement of Australia’s very own brand of Football - Australian Rules Football - first played in 1858. Join us on Saturday afternoon 27th May at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a world recognized high-capacity Stadium previously the venue for the Olympic and Commonwealth Games. You will be seated undercover in comfortable single seats elevated in rows to enable the best view. The Game will be played between Melbourne (the Demons) and Fremantle (the Dockers) from Western Australia. Please join us for an unforgettable and very Australian experience, only a walk away from our Plenary Sessions venue. Please budget for your food, drinks if you want to enjoy the stadium food offering. |
  | Our Premiere Event - Early Bird: SOLD OUT! Final Tickets Available: $60 - GET IN FAST! Saturday Night in Melbourne Aquarium. Everyone dressed to the nines and a photobooth available too! Rotaract Australia has sponsored the event to help bring down the ticket price. Your ticket will cover canapes. Drinks are available at Bar Prices. After 150 tickets are sold - the price will increase to $60. |
  | Get those picturesque photos in front of the famous Brighton Bathing Boxes near Brighton Beach. Not only will you get to take photos, but enjoy the beach's soft sand and see the beautiful Port Phillip Bay. This event will conclude with public transport back to Flinders Street, or guided public transport to the next event: St Kilda Night. As this is a weather dependant event on a beach approaching winter, this event date and time is subject to change. Will will confirm details close to the event. |
  | A short trip from the CBD, join us as we journey to St Kilda in classic Melbourne style via Tram! Known for its famous pier and beach, theme park and nightlife, join us as we take photos in front of famous landmarks and kick off your night with dinner at amazing restaurants along Acland Street in the popular nightlife area of St Kilda. Or, suit up in provided Antarctic snow gear and get set for your 45-minute Penguin Passport experience. Taking you onto the ice where you have the exclusive opportunity to get up close to the colony of penguins. You will also have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see the penguin food preparation, as well as how the state-of-the-art exhibit maintains its sub-zero temperatures. |
  | Join us for a group meetup along Melbourne's beautiful Yarra River for drinks at bars along Southbank after Day 3 of the Convention. This night is a great way to meet other young members attending the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne. The bars will only admit entry with a ticket - so don't delay registering! |
  | Check out the Victorian Parliament House’s amazing architecture, including its internal design like gold lined ceilings from Victoria's Gold Rush. A guided tour will share its rich history, including former Australian Parliament use, as well as explaining our system of government, how parliament operates as well as how laws are made today. |
  | Melbourne has a rich and fun variety of bars and restaurants on offer. Some of them are in plain sight, but others take a little more effort and a discerning eye to find! Join us for a hidden bars scavenger hunt to explore the more obscure and interesting bars in the city. You can set your own pace with your group and stop at the bars you like! |
  | Travel to Queen Victoria Market in classic Melbourne style with a short Tram ride to the edge of the CBD! As we get to the final night of Convention, join us for dinner and shopping at the Winter Night Market. Enjoy amazing street food, grab some bargain souvenirs as well as exploring this unique Melbourne City Market. |
  | Arriving early? Come to Cairns, located in Tropical Far North Queensland and find Nemo while you snorkel around the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and cruise in the world's largest coral reef system, explore the ancient Daintree rainforest (the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, 10 million years older than the Amazon), visit Hinterland Hideaways, soak up some Aussie sunshine on some of the most untouched of our island continent's 11,000 beaches and see unique Australian animal life. From our base in Cairns, a variety of sea and shore experiences are available during this adventure, you can choose options that best suit your wishes and budget. This is a coordinated group trip with a guide and a recommended itinerary where you are responsible for all costs including accommodation, transport, activities, food and drink. |
  | Come and explore Queensland - the sunshine state at its finest! Join us in the Gold Coast for two days of amazing fun!Thu 18 May 2023 - BBQ Lunch & Games on the beach followed by a trip to the Rotary Lookout on Mount Tamorine as you watch the sunset over the scenic rim mountain range. Fri 19 May 2023 - Breakfast in South Straddie, Couran Cove, Hiking at Twin Falls Circuit, Dinner and a Show at the Australian Outback Spectacular with kickons at Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach or Miami. The Australian Outback Spectacular tickets range from $100-$160.Sales EndedThis is a coordinated group trip with a guide and a recommended itinerary where you are responsible for all costs including accomodation, transport, activities, food and drink. * You can pick and choose itinerary items, but please note that they may change due to weather, availability and other factors |
  | When you think of Australia, you probably think of the bush or the outback which, to be honest, you're not going to get much of in Sydney or Melbourne. But no worries, this roadtrip has got you covered - journeying from Sydney to Melbourne (saving you the cost of another flight).Sites include: Australia's official capital Canberra, a stopover at Yass, lunch at the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, and Wagga Wagga.Sales EndedPlease budget for your own food and drinks. Accommodation and transport are included in the fee. |
  | Join us on an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Great Ocean Road! From the moment we depart from Melbourne's CBD, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us. We'll explore the must-see highlights of the coast, including the famous Bells Beach and "Round the Twist" Lighthouse, and stop by the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery for some sweet treats. After a delicious lunch in Lorne and a visit to a nearby waterfall, we'll continue our journey with stops at beautiful beaches and viewpoints, such as Wye River and Petticoat Creek. At the end of the day, we'll arrive at our YHA Eco Hostel in Apollo Bay, where you can relax and recharge for the next day's adventures. On day two, we'll wake up to a hearty breakfast before resuming our drive along the Great Ocean Road. Get up close and personal with some of Australia's unique wildlife at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park, where you can feed kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Then, we'll visit the awe-inspiring 12 Apostles, the Razorback, and other natural wonders along the coast. Please budget for your own food and drinks. Accommodation and transport are included in the fee. |
  | Join us for a jam-packed day of adventure in Geelong! Our day trip is the perfect addition to your convention experience. We'll take you to some of the best sites Geelong has to offer, including Narana Cultural Centre for an immersive indigenous experience and morning tea, the historic Geelong Gaol, and the bustling Mill Markets for unique shopping finds. We'll also bring you to '1915' for lunch in North Geelong, known for its mouthwatering modern Australian cuisine. Then, we'll explore the fascinating history of wool production in Australia at the National Wool Museum, followed by a leisurely walk along the waterfront to soak in the stunning bay views. Finally, we'll end our day trip with a visit to the beautiful Eastern Beach and Botanic Gardens, where you can relax and unwind among the gorgeous flora. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide to show you the way, our day trip tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Geelong. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure! We recommend catching a V Line Train down to Geelong, leaving Southern Cross Train Station (in the CBD) at 8:30am to get you there in time for the 9:30am start at the Geelong Train Station. |
  | Get to see the sites of Sydney! Sat 3 June 2023: Meeting in front of Customs House at 10 am. Customs House: is an elegant sandstone building at Sydney’s busy Circular Quay, built in stages between 1845 and 1917, and conserved and refurbished in the late 1990s. (FREE) Until ~ approx. 11 am. Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay: Circular Quay is a port where cruise ships board and depart (boat watching can be as good a pastime as people watching!) Street performers usually entertain outside. Until ~ approx. 11:30 am. Opera House: Another famous and wonderful beauty of Sydney, Australia. The Sydney Opera House constitutes a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. Until ~ 12pm. Museum of Contemporary Art: Going to the rooftop for beautiful panoramic views, and a stop at a café. Until ~ approx. 12:30 pm. The Rocks Markets: Discover unique art, beats, eats and remedies every Saturday & Sunday at The Rocks Markets – the home of originality. Take a walk, soak in the vibe and get to meet some true one-offs. https://www.therocks.com/whats-on/market-overview Until ~ approx. 1:30 pm. Sydney Harbour Bridge: One of the world’s most recognisable landmarks. Not only is it the largest steel arch bridge on the planet, but it also spans one of the globe’s finest natural harbours. Affectionately named the Coathanger by locals, it is an intrinsic part of the city; you can walk or cycle across it and even climb to its peak for incredible views. Pylon Until ~ approx. 2:00 pm https://pylonlookout.com.au/ No elevator, only stairs. You must book yourself a ticket ASAP if you’re coming. Walk Until ~ approx. 2:30 pm Arriving on the other side of Sydney Harbour. After this, people can explore themselves or with the group. People may want to go to Luna Park, CBD or have dinner in the city. (4:54 pm approx. sunset) Sun 4 June 2023: Meeting in front of the steps of Town Hall on George Street at 10 am. https://goo.gl/maps/jmVAZXQUsGXgqEb37 Queen Victoria Building (QVB) Until ~ approx. 11:00 am Martin Place Until ~ approx. 11:30 pm Pitt Street Mall (Lunch) Until ~ approx. 1:00 pm Hyde Park Until ~ approx. 1:30 pm Bus to Bondi Beach Until ~ approx. 2:00 pm Bondi Beach Until ~ approx. 4:00 pm Afternoon Tea & Drinks From ~ approx. 4:00 pm Sydney CBD: The Central Business District (CBD), includes much more than George Street. Many landmarks are sprinkled in this area. Bondi Beach: The beach boasts a 1-kilometre glimmering beach strip that also produces world-class waves, making it popular for surfing enthusiasts. Bondi Beach is known for its surf scene and is one of the most iconic places in the world. Important Info: WhatsApp Link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GdPi9wPH6qN4QfNDJmKCnX Public Transport Information: https://transportnsw.info Get Tickets |
| |
| Ever wanted to see a kangaroo or wombat? Well, here's your chance to see them at Melbourne Zoo along with other iconic Aussie wildlife such as koalas, emus, drop bears and Tassie devils. Australia's oldest zoo is also home to a variety of animals from around the world and is a world-leading zoo-based conservation not-for-profit organisation, dedicated to fighting wildlife extinction. Preventing the spread of animal Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) Ticket Price includes the entry fee. Please budget for your own food and drink for the day. | |
| |
| Join us for a group meetup in a couple of Melbourne City's Rooftop Bars as we get to know each other on the night before Day 1 of the Convention. This bar night is a great way to meet new Rotaractors and other young members attending the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne.Get Tickets Drinks are available at bar prices. Event Numbers are capped, and the bar will only admit entry with a ticket - so don't delay to register! | |
| |
| Join this tour to explore Melbourne’s beautiful and iconic laneways. These small laneways colourfully characterise the spirit of Melbourne! Marvel at creative talented displays of street art, sip on some of the best coffee and delight yourself with restaurants and cafes that embody a proud mix of culture. Our small group size means attendees can indicate what interests them the most so we can spend time accordingly. Please budget for your food, drinks and if you want to go shopping, we recommend bringing a credit/debit card as a small amount of stores may not accept cash. | |
| |
| Soak up the pulsating excitement of Australia’s very own brand of Football - Australian Rules Football - first played in 1858. Join us on Saturday afternoon 27th May at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a world recognized high-capacity Stadium previously the venue for the Olympic and Commonwealth Games. You will be seated undercover in comfortable single seats elevated in rows to enable the best view. The Game will be played between Melbourne (the Demons) and Fremantle (the Dockers) from Western Australia. Please join us for an unforgettable and very Australian experience, only a walk away from our Plenary Sessions venue. Please budget for your food, drinks if you want to enjoy the stadium food offering. | |
| |
| Our Premiere Event - Early Bird: SOLD OUT! Final Tickets Available: $60 - GET IN FAST! Saturday Night in Melbourne Aquarium. Everyone dressed to the nines and a photobooth available too! Spectacular views of the beautiful Yarra River, with Coral and Fish swimming by as you enjoy the night. This will be the one event you do not want to miss Rotaract Australia has sponsored the event to help bring down the ticket price. Your ticket will cover canapes. Drinks are available at Bar Prices. After 150 tickets are sold - the price will increase to $60. | |
| |
| Get those picturesque photos in front of the famous Brighton Bathing Boxes near Brighton Beach. Not only will you get to take photos, but enjoy the beach's soft sand and see the beautiful Port Phillip Bay. This event will conclude with public transport back to Flinders Street, or guided public transport to the next event: St Kilda Night. As this is a weather dependant event on a beach approaching winter, this event date and time is subject to change. Will will confirm details close to the event. | |
| |
| A short trip from the CBD, join us as we journey to St Kilda in classic Melbourne style via Tram! Known for its famous pier and beach, theme park and nightlife, join us as we take photos in front of famous landmarks and kick off your night with dinner at amazing restaurants along Acland Street in the popular nightlife area of St Kilda. Or, suit up in provided Antarctic snow gear and get set for your 45-minute Penguin Passport experience. Taking you onto the ice where you have the exclusive opportunity to get up close to the colony of penguins. You will also have the opportunity to go behind the scenes and see the penguin food preparation, as well as how the state-of-the-art exhibit maintains its sub-zero temperatures. | |
| |
| Join us for a group meetup along Melbourne's beautiful Yarra River for drinks at bars along Southbank after Day 3 of the Convention. This night is a great way to meet other young members attending the Rotary International Convention in Melbourne. The bars will only admit entry with a ticket - so don't delay registering! | |
| |
| Check out the Victorian Parliament House’s amazing architecture, including its internal design like gold lined ceilings from Victoria's Gold Rush. A guided tour will share its rich history, including former Australian Parliament use, as well as explaining our system of government, how parliament operates as well as how laws are made today. | |
| |
| Melbourne has a rich and fun variety of bars and restaurants on offer. Some of them are in plain sight, but others take a little more effort and a discerning eye to find! Join us for a hidden bars scavenger hunt to explore the more obscure and interesting bars in the city. You can set your own pace with your group and stop at the bars you like! | |
| |
| Travel to Queen Victoria Market in classic Melbourne style with a short Tram ride to the edge of the CBD! As we get to the final night of Convention, join us for dinner and shopping at the Winter Night Market. Enjoy amazing street food, grab some bargain souvenirs as well as exploring this unique Melbourne City Market. |
| |
| Arriving early? Come to Cairns, located in Tropical Far North Queensland and find Nemo while you snorkel around the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and cruise in the world's largest coral reef system, explore the ancient Daintree rainforest (the oldest tropical rainforest in the world, 10 million years older than the Amazon), visit Hinterland Hideaways, soak up some Aussie sunshine on some of the most untouched of our island continent's 11,000 beaches and see unique Australian animal life. From our base in Cairns, a variety of sea and shore experiences are available during this adventure, you can choose options that best suit your wishes and budget. This is a coordinated group trip with a guide and a recommended itinerary where you are responsible for all costs including accommodation, transport, activities, food and drink. | |
| |
| Come and explore Queensland - the sunshine state at its finest! Join us in the Gold Coast for two days of amazing fun! Thu 18 May 2023 - BBQ Lunch & Games on the beach followed by a trip to the Rotary Lookout on Mount Tamorine as you watch the sunset over the scenic rim mountain range. This is a coordinated group trip with a guide and a recommended itinerary where you are responsible for all costs including accomodation, transport, activities, food and drink. | |
| |
| When you think of Australia, you probably think of the bush or the outback which, to be honest, you're not going to get much of in Sydney or Melbourne. But no worries, this roadtrip has got you covered - journeying from Sydney to Melbourne (saving you the cost of another flight). Sites include: Australia's official capital Canberra, a stopover at Yass, lunch at the Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory, and Wagga Wagga. Please budget for your own food and drinks. Accommodation and transport are included in the fee. |
|
| Join us on an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Great Ocean Road! From the moment we depart from Melbourne's CBD, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery that surrounds us. We'll explore the must-see highlights of the coast, including the famous Bells Beach and "Round the Twist" Lighthouse, and stop by the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery for some sweet treats. After a delicious lunch in Lorne and a visit to a nearby waterfall, we'll continue our journey with stops at beautiful beaches and viewpoints, such as Wye River and Petticoat Creek. At the end of the day, we'll arrive at our YHA Eco Hostel in Apollo Bay, where you can relax and recharge for the next day's adventures. On day two, we'll wake up to a hearty breakfast before resuming our drive along the Great Ocean Road. Get up close and personal with some of Australia's unique wildlife at the Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park, where you can feed kangaroos, wallabies, and emus. Then, we'll visit the awe-inspiring 12 Apostles, the Razorback, and other natural wonders along the coast. Our journey will culminate in Warnambool, where you can enjoy some food, shopping, or even relax in the hot springs. Finally, we'll make our way back to Melbourne, feeling rejuvenated and inspired by the natural beauty of the Great Ocean Road. Don't miss out on this incredible trip - register now! Please budget for your own food and drinks. Accommodation and transport are included in the fee. |
|
| Join us for a jam-packed day of adventure in Geelong! Our day trip is the perfect addition to your convention experience. We'll take you to some of the best sites Geelong has to offer, including Narana Cultural Centre for an immersive indigenous experience and morning tea, the historic Geelong Gaol, and the bustling Mill Markets for unique shopping finds. We'll also bring you to '1915' for lunch in North Geelong, known for its mouthwatering modern Australian cuisine. Then, we'll explore the fascinating history of wool production in Australia at the National Wool Museum, followed by a leisurely walk along the waterfront to soak in the stunning bay views. Finally, we'll end our day trip with a visit to the beautiful Eastern Beach and Botanic Gardens, where you can relax and unwind among the gorgeous flora. With comfortable transportation and a knowledgeable guide to show you the way, our day trip tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Geelong. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure! We recommend catching a V Line Train down to Geelong, leaving Southern Cross Train Station (in the CBD) at 8:30am to get you there in time for the 9:30am start at the Geelong Train Station. Get TicketsWe recommend getting to the station 30 mins before departure, to ensure you have a correct ticket and get to the right platform. Additional Expenses: $10 Wool Museum & $20 Geelong Gaol Museum will need to be paid at each venue for entry on the day. |
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| Get to see the sites of Sydney! Sat 3 June 2023: Meeting in front of Customs House at 10 am. Customs House: is an elegant sandstone building at Sydney’s busy Circular Quay, built in stages between 1845 and 1917, and conserved and refurbished in the late 1990s. (FREE) Until ~ approx. 11 am. Sydney Harbour and Circular Quay: Circular Quay is a port where cruise ships board and depart (boat watching can be as good a pastime as people watching!) Street performers usually entertain outside. Until ~ approx. 11:30 am. Opera House: Another famous and wonderful beauty of Sydney, Australia. The Sydney Opera House constitutes a masterpiece of 20th-century architecture. Until ~ 12pm. Museum of Contemporary Art: Going to the rooftop for beautiful panoramic views, and a stop at a café. Until ~ approx. 12:30 pm. The Rocks Markets: Discover unique art, beats, eats and remedies every Saturday & Sunday at The Rocks Markets – the home of originality. Take a walk, soak in the vibe and get to meet some true one-offs. https://www.therocks.com/whats-on/market-overview Until ~ approx. 1:30 pm. Sydney Harbour Bridge: One of the world’s most recognisable landmarks. Not only is it the largest steel arch bridge on the planet, but it also spans one of the globe’s finest natural harbours. Affectionately named the Coathanger by locals, it is an intrinsic part of the city; you can walk or cycle across it and even climb to its peak for incredible views. Pylon Until ~ approx. 2:00 pm https://pylonlookout.com.au/ No elevator, only stairs. You must book yourself a ticket ASAP if you’re coming. Walk Until ~ approx. 2:30 pm Arriving on the other side of Sydney Harbour. After this, people can explore themselves or with the group. People may want to go to Luna Park, CBD or have dinner in the city. (4:54 pm approx. sunset) Sun 4 June 2023: Meeting in front of the steps of Town Hall on George Street at 10 am. https://goo.gl/maps/jmVAZXQUsGXgqEb37 Queen Victoria Building (QVB) Until ~ approx. 11:00 am Martin Place Until ~ approx. 11:30 pm Pitt Street Mall (Lunch) Until ~ approx. 1:00 pm Hyde Park Until ~ approx. 1:30 pm Bus to Bondi Beach Until ~ approx. 2:00 pm Bondi Beach Until ~ approx. 4:00 pm Afternoon Tea & Drinks From ~ approx. 4:00 pm Sydney CBD: The Central Business District (CBD), includes much more than George Street. Many landmarks are sprinkled in this area. Bondi Beach: The beach boasts a 1-kilometre glimmering beach strip that also produces world-class waves, making it popular for surfing enthusiasts. Bondi Beach is known for its surf scene and is one of the most iconic places in the world. Important Info: WhatsApp Link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GdPi9wPH6qN4QfNDJmKCnX Public Transport Information: https://transportnsw.info Please note that the itinerary mentioned above is subject to change based on the level of interest and participation. While we endeavour to provide a comprehensive schedule of events and sightseeing opportunities in Sydney, adjustments may be made to accommodate the preferences and availability of participants. We value your input and encourage you to express your interests and preferences as we plan our activities. Your feedback will help us shape the final itinerary and ensure a more personalised experience for all participants. |