Regular Activities at Jika Jika:
April - June 2025
Jika Jika is undergoing essential re-stumping work at our main Jika Jika building at 1B Plant Street, Northcote from April to June 2025.
During this time, we’ll be relocating most of our activities to the Former Preston Courthouse at 59A Roseberry Ave, Preston.
Please note the following exceptions:
Activities that usually take place at Jika in the Park, 2 East Street, Northcote will continue there.
Our Wednesday Food Program will be held at 130 High Street, Northcote (entrance via Roberts Street, near the corner of Pearl Street).
A small number of programs run by external providers will take place at alternative venues organised by the program providers. Please see more details below.
Mondays
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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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.
Karate Classes for Kids
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
8pm-9pm (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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 - ON HOLD UNTIL JULY
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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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 at 59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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 - ON HOLD UNTIL JULY
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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
Embrace your creative side and connect with others in Jika's art space, using our great range of art supplies for just $5.
Open Studio Arts
4:15pm-5:50pm (GLOW Dance, 8/252 St Georges Road, Fitzroy North - enter off Fergie St)
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
6:30pm-8:30pm (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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)
Tune-in Tuesdays: Community Events
Wednesdays
9am-12pm (Clifton Hill Scout Hall, 95 Walker St, Clifton Hill)
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
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 (130 High Street, Northcote)
10:30am-1pm - ON HOLD UNTIL JULY
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-2:30pm (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
Social Stitch (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 (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.
Thursdays
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 at 59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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.
12:30pm-1pm (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
Community BBQ/Lunch
Join us for our new weekly Community BBQ or lunch and games. It’s a lovely way to meet other locals in a friendly, relaxed space. Whether you come on your own or with a friend, everyone’s welcome!
1pm-2:00pm (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
Social Stitch (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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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!
4:20pm-5:55pm (Clifton Hill Scout Hall, 95 Walker St, Clifton Hill)
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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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 (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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
9:30am - 11:30am (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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.
Community Playgroup
9:45am-12:pm (59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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
Community Sing-Along (FREE)
1.30pm-2.30pm - ON HOLD UNTIL JULY
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 (during school terms at Jika in the Park )
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.
4:00pm-6:00pm (First and third Friday of the month) - ON HOLD UNTIL JULY
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 (Ela Rose Studios. 20 Chingford St, Fairfield)
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
2pm-4pm (monthly on-demand)
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. Registration essential.
4pm-6pm (third Saturday of the month at 59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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)
Saturday Sing
Sundays
10:30am-12:30pm (during school terms at 59A Roseberry Ave, Preston)
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!
Shaking the Tree Choir
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!
By Appointment
Children’s Violin Lessons
Give your child the gift of music with expert violin lessons from John Officer. With nearly 40 years of teaching experience, John has a special talent for working with young learners. He’s taught violin at one of Melbourne’s top schools for 27 years and has performed with the Australian Opera and Australian Ballet. Lessons by appointment.