🌸 Bloom & Connect

A FREE 6-week gathering for expectant mums

Let’s be real—growing a tiny human is no small thing.
Bloom & Connect is your weekly dose of genuine connection and conversation with other mums-to-be who get it. No pressure, no perfect—just a welcoming space to laugh, share, and feel a little more like yourself again.

💬 Why it matters

Pregnancy can be joyful, but it can also feel lonely. Research suggests many new mums experience social isolation, especially with distance from family, shifting friendships, and changing life circumstances.

“I didn’t feel that socially connected... it’s very hard to find anything to do when you’re pregnant.”
– Focus group participant, Geelong

Whether this is your first baby or your fifth, you don’t have to go it alone.

“I thought that this already existed, and when I found out it didn’t, I was really surprised.”
– Focus group participant, Geelong

We’re creating a warm, nurturing space where expectant mums can:

✅ Connect with others on a similar journey
✅ Share experiences in a safe, inclusive environment
✅ Enjoy gentle activities and real conversations
✅ Build meaningful friendships and support networks

“The social connection thing is like the one thing that would motivate me... you don’t realise just how crucial having that network is.”
– Focus group participant, Geelong

🤍 What to expect

✔️ Small groups (max 12) for deeper connection
✔️ Honest convos—not just small talk
✔️ Guest speakers, engaging activities & hot cups of tea
✔️ Activities like gentle movement, creative art, or mindfulness (all easy and optional)
✔️ A gift bag filled with goodies from local businesses
✔️ A safe, welcoming space where you can just be

📅 Program details

🌸 Free to join – This is a fully funded pilot program with limited spots available.

🕙 When: Saturdays, 10 AM – 12 PM

Group 1: 14 June – 19 July
Group 2: 16 August – 27 September

We recommend joining when you’re around 25–35 weeks pregnant.
If your due date falls outside that range, register your interest here:
👉 https://forms.office.com/r/ABbuXKMMTz

📍 Where: Grovedale Neighbourhood House
Right next to the Grovedale Community Hub bus stop on Heyers Road. On-site parking available. Plan your trip at ptv.vic.gov.au.

💡 Important to know:

We encourage you to attend all six sessions if possible—it’s how the magic happens. However, your health always comes first, and if you can’t attend all the sessions, we understand.

To support focused connection, we recommend attending without older children. If that’s tricky, just let us know—we’re happy to provide age-appropriate toys and activities.

If it takes a village, let’s build one together.
Let’s create real connection and support—right here in our local community. Because we weren’t meant to do it alone.

Come as you are. We can’t wait to meet you.

Proudly supported by a City of Greater Geelong Community Grant

Bloom and Connect

Choose your tickets

Block 1: 14 June – 19 July 2025 ticket

Block 2: 16 August- 27 September 2025 ticket

Donations

Donation to Friends for Good