Start of 2026

We have a busy start to 2026 and look forward to seeing as many as possible at upcoming events.

ISFAF MONTHLY MEETING

6pm for 7pm start TUESDAY 10 February 2026
LEVEL 1, 607 ST KILDA ROAD, MELBOURNE

Please note earlier start time.  Join us for a light dinner and chat available from 6pm. 
For security, we are required to pay a concierge at the door of the building. Latecomers after 8pm may not be able to enter.
 
GUESTS:
Violeta Pearson with Lived Experience Carer Support Staff from Bayside Health (new name following merger, effective 1st Jan 2026)
 
TOPIC:
Understanding the support system available to Carers via Lived Experience Carer Support Staff

Have you ever wondered how to connect for more support for YOU not just your loved one?  All Carers, family and friends of individuals are welcome to attend, as are all members of Staff (‘Team AMAH’).

Since the Royal Commission the inclusion of lived experience in the treatment and care of people with a mental illness has been a game changer. 
 
VENUE: 
1st  Floor, 607 St Kilda Road, Melbourne

Close to the junction, near corner of Raleigh St. with many trams stopping at the door. Parking available on St Kilda Rd, be mindful of clearway signs as we are starting earlier this month.

 
Please come and join us for our first get together, would be great to see old friends, meet new friends with catering to kick the year off
                       
If you seek further information or just need a chat, about ISFAF, the ‘mental health world’ and/or issues you are facing please phone: Leanne, M: 0438 199 204 or Eleni, M:  0412 018 722
 
Please Diarise the 2nd Tuesday of the Month for ISFAF monthly member meetings.  Lots of interesting topics being covered, including Political Forum in August before the upcoming election.
 

DATES TO DIARISE 

ELWOOD BEACH WALK ‘N CHAT  ON THE 1ST, 3RD AND 5th  (WHERE APPLICABLE) TUESDAY OF THE MONTH

Next Tuesday Walk ‘n Chat 3rd February 2026
Please note the HUB where we usually met has closed.  In search of a new location, interim meet up at the Beach Shack 29a Ormond Esplanade Elwood, next Walk ‘N’ Chat 3rd Feb 2026
Walkers generally meet at 1:30pm, for a drink provided by ISFAF. Family members, including canines are very welcome.
Please book on the day prior to walk or by 10am on the day of the walk.
For registered members refer to WhatsApp group message
For new members to the group, Ph: Alexis 0423 939 949 for a quick chat and to be added to the group
 
The Dining Club:  Next Date Thursday 19th Feb.  (to be confirmed)  Keep an eye out on your emails or the ISFAF website for details on this event.
  
First Dining club was successfully held on the 21st January at the Post office Club Hotel where 23 diners had a wonderful time of dining and sharing stories despite Melbourne turning from a lovely summers day into a chilly night. 
Until June 2026 there will be a meal at a local pub/restaurant hosted and largely funded by ISFAF with our grant from Carers Vic and the Victorian State Government.   
 
Please note there will be a cap of around $40 per person, we found this covered the main meal and shared sides. We are trying to select places where it is a bit less noisy so we can all have a chat and a laugh easily.  If you have recommendations of your local, please let the committee know.
 
 
RESPITE – MID WEEK BREAK: 18th to 20th MARCH 2026
Funded by our grant from Carers Vic and the Victorian State Government.   
 
The committee is currently working on the details for the respite period. Please note this event is for Carers only.
 
3 days and 2 nights at the Peninsula.
 
Please register your expression of interest for this event by email by 18th Feb 2026.
 
 
THEATRE NIGHT – Wednesday 1st April 2026 7pm
                              
ISFAF has reserved tickets for Wednesday 1st April 2026 7pm show.
Show Info:    Princess Theatre, 163 Spring St, Melbourne
Running Time: 2 hours 30 minutes, including interval
Please register your interest by return email to secure your seat.  As there are a limited number of tickets, not everyone may be successful in securing a ticket.  A contribution of $10per ticket will be required and details on how to deposit will be sent in due course.