Regular Activities at Jika Jika
Learn new skills and connect with other locals through our fantastic range of classes and groups for all ages and interests.
This schedule is subject to change at late notice. To avoid disappointment, please contact us on
9482 5100 before attending an activity for the first time.
View our modified program for January 2025
Mondays
This lively group of Greek ladies has been gathering for decades to laugh, talk, eat cake and catch up on their news. Bring a plate to share in their welcoming community.
Greek Women’s Group (FREE)
12pm-2pm
1:30pm-4pm (Jika in the Park during school terms)
Learn computer and digital skills from our expert Harry. Explore email, online banking, MS Office, and more in a supportive, judgement-free zone. $90 per term, concessions available.
Computer Basics Class
4:30pm-6:30pm
Karate Classes for Kids
Skilled instructors from Le Bros Karate help build children’s confidence and various self-defence, motor and other skills in a safe space. Classes for ages 4+ from beginner to advanced.
6:30pm-8:30pm (Jika in the Park during school term)
Expressive Women is a warm, connected group celebrating female songwriters and sharing stories through music. Directed by Bronwyn Calcutt, we welcome new members in 2024!
Expressive Women Choir
6:30pm-8:00pm (fourth Monday of the month)
A safe, confidential space to discuss challenges, self-help ideas and coping strategies. Led by trained male volunteers, this group supports men with lived trauma experiences. Share and discuss your own topics and take part in mindfulness activities. Bookings essential.
Men’s Trauma Support Group (FREE)
8pm-9pm
Pilates
Instructor Ange welcomes you to strengthen your core and stretch your body and mind in her uplifting pilates classes. Suitable for all levels.
Tuesdays
10am-11:00am
Join Tiffany for a joyful session of free flow movements in a warm, inclusive atmosphere! All ages, genders, and abilities are welcome. This is a free event, and there’s no need to register.
Dance and Sound Meditation
11am-12pm
Morning Tea (FREE)
Enjoy tea, coffee, freshly baked scones and warm conversations with fellow community members at our relaxed weekly morning tea. This is a free event. Just turn up.
12pm-1pm
Tai Chi/Qigong Fusion
Join Tao for a special blend of Tai Chi Chuan and Qigong, a unique experience to rejuvenate your body and mind. All ages and abilities welcome. Pricing: $5 concession / $10 full price.
10am-11.30am (alternating weeks)
Brain Injury Matters Peer Support (FREE)
The Brain Injury Matters Peer Support Group connects people with acquired brain injury in the Northern suburbs. Members share their lived experience, support each other and have fun!
12pm-3pm
Gardening Group (FREE)
Join our informal Gardening Group as we tend to our community garden every Tuesday! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just curious, we welcome you to get your hands dirty.
12.30pm-2.30pm
Open Studio Arts
Embrace your creative side and connect with others in Jika's art space, using our great range of art supplies for just $5.
4:15pm-5:50pm
Nook Dance Studio Classes
Nurture your child’s self-expression and confidence through creative dance classes by Nook Dance Centre. Visit Nook’s website via the button below for class and timetable information.
Tune-in Tuesdays: Community Events
6:30pm-8:30pm
Connect with other locals at our fun and welcoming rotating Tuesday night events.
All Are Welcome Games Night: First Tuesday of the month (FREE)
Community Movie Night: Second Tuesday of the month (FREE)
Community Dinner: Third Tuesday of the month (FREE)
Something New: Fourth Tuesday of the month (FREE)
Wednesdays
Nurture your child’s self-expression and confidence through creative dance classes by Nook Dance Centre. Visit Nook’s website via the button below for class and timetable information.
Nook Dance Studio Classes
9am-12pm
Darebin residents on low or no income or experiencing financial hardship can pick up free fresh fruit and veggies, including some grown in our very own community garden.
Fresh Food Program (FREE)
10:30am-12pm (alternating weeks)
10:30am-1pm
Open Playground (FREE)
Enjoy Jika’s open playground which features toys, a sandpit, a cubby house, children’s tables, and more. Meet other families and escape the house, especially if you don't have a backyard.
1pm-2pm (first Wednesday of the month at Jika in the Park)
A welcoming gathering perfect for book lovers facing challenges in reading due to poor concentration or vision loss. Explore engaging audio books from Darebin Library and Vision Australia.
Audio Book Club (FREE)
1pm-2:30pm
A Stitch in Time Sewing Group (FREE)
Join Aysegul, our sewing enthusiast, for some stitching fun. It's a relaxed drop-in service with sewing machines available. Knit, sew and chat together!
5:30pm-6:30pm (at Jika in the Park)
Let’s Meditate (FREE)
Discover tranquility with Judith Barker in our rejuvenating Sahaja Yoga meditation sessions. Manage stress better, master your emotions and find solutions to your problems. All ages are welcome to experience the soothing power of meditation.
7pm-8:30pm (excludes every 3rd Wednesday of the month)
Northside Grassroots Kirtan
Experience the joy of Kirtan— inclusive and uplifting singing with call-and-response mantras. BYO instrument or simply join in the harmonious atmosphere! All abilities and donations welcome.
Thursdays
10am-11:30am (third Thursday of the month)
Walks for Carers (FREE) - ON HOLD
Local caregivers, join us for our new Walks for Carers monthly event. Meet at Jika Jika for a 30-minute walk, followed by a casual morning tea and friendly chats with other carers at Jika Jika.
10am-1pm (first Thursday of the month at Jika in the Park)
Seniors Bike Shed (FREE)
Connect with fellow riders, share stories and enjoy a friendly atmosphere while working on your bikes. Experienced bike mechanic Richie is on hand to help with parts and repairs. To learn more, call 9482 5100 or email via the button below.
10:15am-11:30am (during school term)
Hatha Yoga
Join physiotherapist Laurie Lacey for a rejuvenating hatha yoga class covering spinal care, deep relaxation and gentle stretching. Pay for the term or individual classes.
1pm-2:30pm
A Stitch in Time Sewing Group (FREE)
Join Aysegul, our sewing enthusiast, for some stitching fun. It's a relaxed drop-in service with sewing machines available. Knit, sew and chat together!
3pm-4:00pm
Free to Air TV Discussion Group (FREE)
Join us to discover hidden gems on Free to Air TV, share your favourites and discuss the latest episodes with like-minded people. We’ll also create a weekly list of must-see shows, so you never miss out on the best free television!
3pm-4:30pm
Men’s Social Group (FREE)
Connect with fellow locals, unwind over coffee and make new friendships. We're all about camaraderie in a welcoming atmosphere.
4:20pm-5:55pm
Nook Dance Studio Classes
Nurture your child’s self-expression and confidence through creative dance classes by Nook Dance Centre. Visit Nook’s website via the button below for class and timetable information.
7pm-8pm
Macedonian Folk Dance Group
Our Macedonian folk dancing group has been gathering weekly for 12 years! While our core consists of spirited women in their 50s and 60s, we welcome anyone seeking good music, fun and exercise.
8pm-9pm
Pilates
Instructor Ange welcomes you to strengthen your core and stretch your body and mind in her uplifting pilates classes. Suitable for all levels.
Fridays
Community Playgroup
9:30am - 11:30am
Join us for play-based activities and lots of fun for little ones aged 0-6. It's a great way for your children to learn and connect with others while you meet fellow locals! Gold coin donation.
9:45am-12:pm
Nook Dance Studio Classes
Nurture your child’s self-expression and confidence through creative dance classes by Nook Dance Centre. Visit Nook’s website via the button below for class and timetable information.
Lunchtime Sing-Along (FREE)
12.30pm-1.15pm
Bring your lunch, or just yourself and belt out some easy, fun tunes with us. This isn't a choir – there's no experience needed, just your enthusiasm!
1:30pm-4pm (Jika in the Park during school terms)
Computer Basics Class
Learn computer and digital skills from our in-house expert Harry. Explore email, online banking, MS Office, and more in a supportive, judgement-free zone. $90 per term, concessions available.
4:30pm-6:30pm (First and third Friday of the month)
Our House is Your House (FREE)
Looking for a relaxed space to hang out, get creative and meet new people? Our House is Your House is a safe, inclusive space to unwind and express yourself. We’ve got everything from DIY jewellery making to natural skincare sessions to self-care chats. Plus, there are snacks! Bring your friends or come solo and meet some new ones. Everyone’s welcome.
Saturdays
9:00am-1:10pm
Nook Dance Studio Classes
Nurture your child’s self-expression and confidence through creative dance classes by Nook Dance Centre. Visit Nook’s website via the button below for class and timetable information.
2pm-4pm (monthly)
Trans & Gender Diverse Support Group (FREE)
Join our Trans & Gender Diverse Support Group for a monthly, relaxing afternoon tea. Whether you're looking to connect with others or seek support, our welcoming space provides both.
4pm-6pm (third Saturday of the month)
Saturday Sing
Join in the fun and connect with locals as we gather for a good time, raising our voices together in song. Everyone’s welcome ($10)
Sundays
10:30am-12:30pm (during school terms)
Shaking the Tree Choir
Shaking the Tree is a choir fueled by passion for social justice and songs that amplify our love and values. Directed by Bronwyn Calcutt, we're excited to welcome new members in 2024!
11:00am-12:00pm (second and last Sunday of the month at Jika in the Park)
Om Chanting Circle
Enjoy soothing chants, following by meditation and quiet reflection, offering mental calm, physical relaxation and spiritual healing. Gold coin donation (free for those in need). No experience needed!
11:30am-1:30pm (monthly)
Loops of Learning
Join in Loops of Learning: conversations to understand everyday complexities and create positive change. Engage in facilitated talks and hands-on learning about Systems Thinking tools.