Join our Club // October 2025 Join our Club
Beyond the boardrooms and meeting rooms of 101 Collins, many tenants dedicate their time to something very different: clubs and communities that shape their lives outside of work. From sport and volunteering to creative pursuits and wellness groups, these commitments reveal another side to some of our building’s professionals. More than hobbies, these clubs provide connection, purpose and joy – helping members build friendships, grow in confidence and discover new parts of themselves. Share this on LinkedIn, Twitter

SALLY PATERSON

Infrastructure Manager, Goldman Sachs

The Melbourne Camera Club


Tell us about the Melbourne Camera Club and how long you’ve been a member.


My inspiration to take up photography more seriously began in 2017 – after completing two introductory courses at RMIT. Later that year, I joined the Melbourne Camera Club to continue building my skills and connect with others who shared the same creative interests. The Melbourne

Camera Club was founded in 1891 and is based in South Melbourne. The club owns a historic building that the members restored with a darkroom, studio and gallery. The club offers a wide program of activities including guest speakers, competitions, workshops, photowalks, exhibitions, special interest groups and social events that cater to more than 350 members.


What does this community mean to you?


Through the Melbourne Camera Club, I’ve found not only a creative outlet and introduction to the wider photographic community, but also a strong sense of purpose through volunteering. I have served as a volunteer Board Director since 2019, and also been involved in organising exhibitions, photowalks and members’ social events, as well as managing communications and helping grow the club’s digital presence. During the COVID lockdowns, I led the club’s early transition to virtual meetings to help members stay connected and inspired.


What do you love most about it and why?


The social aspect, the people and the opportunity to contribute – whether it’s sharing ideas or putting my images ‘out there’ on the wall of an exhibition or competition.


What has it taught you about yourself?


It’s taught me that I have an eye for creating an image, and that I’m capable of developing a personal style that resonates with others. I’ve come to appreciate that others value my work – through being accepted into exhibitions outside the club and receiving awards in national and international competitions, which has increased my creative confidence. It’s reminded me how important it is to make time for creativity and community, especially alongside a busy corporate life.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


Just do it! Everyone should have a hobby – something outside of work and family that’s just for you. It doesn’t have to be photography but find something that you love. And if you’re open to it, volunteering can make the experience even more rewarding.



ISABELLA FINI & MIRANDA FRITH

Law Graduates, Pinsent Masons

Pinsent Masons Book Club


Tell us about Pinsent Masons Book Club and how long you’ve been members.


Miranda and I unintentionally formed a two-person book club by discussing the books we were both reading last August. After some chatter around the office, it seemed there was interest from others and so we started the Pinsent Masons Book Club in Australia. We’ve had uptake from all of our offices nationally and even across the Dubai office. We meet once a month after work in our boardroom to chat about the book we’ve read or just generally debrief the month.


Why is it important for you to be part of this Book Club community?


With the demands of Big Law and our busy teams, it is important to spend some time getting to know our colleagues outside of calendar invites and email signatures. The PM Book Club has become a place where we get to chat to people we don’t work with and have an opportunity to connect on a level above work.


In what ways does it improve how you feel?


Being in a book club has improved our sense of community. We find that by turning a few pages on the commute home, winding down before bed, or even reading the book by the pool on holiday, we can remain connected to our other book clubbers wherever we are.


Has it changed your life? If so, how?


Of course! We are grateful for Pinsent Masons’ support of our club as it has allowed us to interact with other groups such as the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Group (we read Talking to my Country by Stan Grant in April to honour National Sorry Day) and the Climate Change Sustainability Network (we’re reading Nature is a Human Right by Ellen Miles right now in recognition of World Environment Day). Through this, we have created friendships and challenged ourselves intellectually in a space outside of our jobs.


What do you love most about it and why?


Working in law, our careers are often aligned with our personalities. Everyone knows lawyers love to argue, so this is a chance for us to debate on the smaller things (such as our favourite character), while enjoying some cheese and wine. Book Club is a place where we can step away from work and be creative (and argumentative!) in another setting.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


Book clubs can seem intimidating when everyone has big thoughts on a book or may have a different interpretation to you. However, we created the Pinsent Masons Book Club as a space to hear everyone’s thoughts, big or small. We work hard to promote a welcoming environment, where you’re never far from a friendly face or at the very least, a platter of cheese.



NICOLE HOLLAND

Pitching & Proposals Manager, Allens

Iron Maidens Melbourne


Tell us about Iron Maidens Melbourne and how long you’ve been a member.


Iron Maidens Melbourne is a social motorcycle club and I’ve been a member since 2021. There are several female bike clubs in Victoria and they all intermingle and join each other’s group rides, so it’s a huge community. The Maidens host events, meet and greets, and group motorbike rides, including opportunities for overnight (or longer) trips, fundraisers and first aid training. Events are posted on social media and members attend when they can.


Why is it important for you to be part of the Iron Maidens community?


When you ride a motorbike, you’re alone with your thoughts in a highly focused state. You can’t drop your concentration on two-wheels at speed, but when you stop for coffee or lunch it’s great to have new and old friends to laugh with and gain a deeper appreciation of how different we all are. When a Maiden is having a tough time, we show up for each other, we check-in, we help out.


Has it changed your life? If so, how?


Riding in an organised and supportive environment has increased my social confidence. I’ve put myself out there more in all parts of my life, including stepping up at work and achieving more than I would have imagined five years ago.


What has it taught you about yourself?


I can overcome challenges. I wrote-off my bike on my first group ride. I could have given up, but the women were caring and encouraging. I bought a new bike, and when opportunities come up for experiences outside my comfort zone, I embrace them. This September I’m embarking on a group ride to Ballina NSW for Babe Raid, where we’ll try to take back the world records for the largest all female bike meet – the most women riding motorcycles at the same time; and set a new world record for most mothers and daughters at a female bike meet. Without the Iron Maidens, life wouldn’t be this exciting.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


New and shared experiences make life worth living. Clubs are social, kind, supportive and welcoming, whether it’s a motorcycle club or a crafts group. If there’s something you enjoy doing, search for a club. Embrace the opportunity to enrich your life with more joy, laughter and friendships – and if you ride, or want to, join Iron Maidens Melbourne.



PADDY O’SULLIVAN

Special Counsel, Gilbert + Tobin

Old Xaverians Hockey Club


Tell us about the Old Xaverians Hockey Club and how long you’ve been a member.


I’ve been playing hockey with the Old Xaverians for 14 years – the club has grown so much since those early days. We play during the winter months, training twice during the week and playing games on the weekend. In balancing the demands of high-stakes litigation, I try to make one training a week (although my coach and teammates would doubt that!).


Why is it important for you to be part of the Old Xaverians community?


It’s an opportunity to connect with people from different ages and backgrounds that I might not come across in my professional or social circles. Team sports also provide a sense of enjoyment and camaraderie that is hard to replicate outside of my day-to-day work at G+T, where I help clients on their reputationally important cases and regulatory matters. Many of my most valued friendships have been formed through my years with the hockey club.


In what ways does it improve how you feel?


Mainly, it gets me out of the house and office and participating in active exercise. Without it, I fear for my waistline! Physical exercise in a team environment also helps to free the mind up for the things that matter, whether that is in work or life more generally.


What do you love most about it and why?


Hockey has been helping me get through the cold Melbourne winters for as long as I can remember. While the games are fun (training less so), and have brought with them some on-field successes over the years, I most enjoy the debriefs with teammates after the game, reflecting upon skills poorly executed and abilities overestimated.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


If there’s something you’re passionate about or interested in, sharing those passions or interests with others can be super rewarding. It can also be a great opportunity to connect with people from different walks of life. And, for someone who is not enamoured by the idea of going for a run or to a gym, team sports are a great opportunity to keep fit!



ANNA LEONEDAS

Communications Senior Specialist, BCG

Melbourne University Soccer Club


Tell us about the Melbourne University Soccer Club and how long you’ve been a member.


I’ve been playing at Melbourne University Soccer Club for about 12 years – so long, that they call me ‘Yiayia’ which means grandma in Greek! We train twice a week and play our home games at the best park in Melbourne – Princes Park.


What does this community mean to you?


I’ve made so many lifelong friendships and met people from all walks of life. We’re the biggest senior club in Victoria, with the biggest women’s program – but we still have a small community feel. We start our pre-season together every year, and the coaches slot players into the best team for them. That team becomes your family for the season ahead.


In what ways does it improve how you feel?


I can’t emphasise enough how important it is for my mental health. The game, club and community have been there for me in tough times over the years. Exercise is an amazing stress release and mood booster – and you’re doing it with people who make you smile and laugh and who rally around you when you need support.


Has it changed your life? If so, how?


A huge part of my life and identity revolves around soccer and the club. I’m there every Sunday, playing, barbecuing, tidying storerooms and generally pottering about. It’s the best way to spend a winter weekend. My parents still come to my games, only now they stand on the sideline with my husband too.


What has it taught you about yourself?


I’ve realised that I’m good at leading and rallying a team, and that I can actually get better at things with practice! I’ve also learned that as you get older, the reasons you play sport change – and you don’t have to be a sporty, fit or competitive person to love it.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


Soccer is for everyone. Do some research to find options that suit your schedule or skill level. Most clubs will be looking for new players in the summer, ahead of their pre-seasons. For women – age 15 is Australia’s peak age for girls dropping out of sport – and that has been the experience of so many of my childhood teammates and friends. I’m in my 30s now, and I’ve played with women aged 17 to 58 – it’s never too late to get back into sport or give it a go for the first time!



CAREY MUDGE

State Manager, JLL

Country Fire Authority


Tell us about the Country Fire Authority and how long you’ve been a member.


I’m an active member in the CFA and I have been a brigade member for 24 years. The CFA is a volunteer organisation responsible for fire suppression, rescues and response to other accidents and hazards across Victoria, with the exception of metropolitan areas. It comprises over 1,200 brigades organised into 21 districts with around 5,000 fire and rescue volunteers and 2,400 volunteer support staff. The brigade typically meets weekly during peak fire season and will turnout to a call several times a month, unless there is a major incident when brigades will turnout in a full time capacity.


Why is it important to you to be part of the Country Fire Authority?


The CFA is a volunteer authority and without volunteers, Victoria’s ability to respond and manage critical incidents is severely compromised. In rural areas membership to the brigade is not so much considered an option as it is a responsibility. Members are proud to represent the CFA and provide protection of communities and assets.


What has it taught you about yourself?


I have learned that there are no limitations to what any one person can do, but also that it’s okay for levels of commitments to change as life progresses. You can give as much or as little to something like the brigade as circumstances allow and still have an impact.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


There are elements of danger involved with fighting fires, and a degree of physicality also required, but regardless there is always a role for anyone in front line or support. If you’re keen to commit your time, no one’s contributions are thought less of or turned away.



MAHIKA BHARDWAJ

Associate – Quantitative Analyst, Jamieson Coote Bonds

The Art of Living


Tell us about The Art of Living and how long you’ve been a member.


The Art of Living is an organisation dedicated to promoting mental wellbeing through breathwork and meditation. Rooted in ancient Indian practices and Ayurvedic principles, the community offers a structured yet welcoming environment to explore practices that support both mental and physical health. I’ve been a member for two years and we meet weekly in Carlton for guided breathwork sessions. It not only provides a consistent space for practice but also fosters a sense of community. After class, we often catch up socially, which adds a positive and relaxed start to the weekend.


Why is it important to you to be part of this community? How does it improve how you feel?


In today’s fast-paced world, where social media and the inability to switch off can be overwhelming, having a space to slow down and reconnect with yourself is essential. The combination of physical movement and meditative breathwork has helped me manage stress more effectively and channel my energy in a more consistent and sustainable way. I’m able to approach things with greater clarity and focus. It’s not a loud or dramatic shift – it’s a grounding presence that brings balance and a sense of calm to my daily routine.


What do you love most about it and why?


I really appreciate how balanced it makes me feel mentally and physically. I do a lot of high-intensity workouts, so breathwork is a great way to balance that out. It’s a more natural way to energise myself, especially in the mornings. Instead of reaching for coffee, I’ve found that breathwork gives me a clearer, more focused start to the day.


What has it taught you about yourself?


This practice has taught me how to be more present. It offers a level of relaxation that even a spa day can’t quite replicate. I’ve learned to focus on what’s in front of me rather than getting caught up in future worries. It’s helped me cultivate gratitude and awareness for the small things we often overlook. In moments of stress, I’ve found it easier to maintain a sense of calm and perspective, which has been invaluable both personally and professionally.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?


If you’ve ever found meditation challenging, breathwork can be a great entry point. It’s a practical and accessible way to improve your mood, boost productivity and strengthen your connection with others. In today’s environment, where mental health is just as important as physical fitness, practices like these offer a well-rounded approach to overall wellbeing.



JENNIE RIVERA Business Manager

IAN KEYS Senior Vice President

LINCOLN MACDOUGALL Operations Associate

JAIMEE HONTER Executive Director

Morgan Stanley Slow Run Club


Tell us about the Slow Run Club and how long you’ve been members.


Slow Run Club (#SRC) started in 2023 in conjunction with Walk Club. 101 tenants may recognise the “Gail The Snail” t-shirts in the locker room or foyer on Friday mornings. We started it to do a little exercise with the motto “We run for days at 6 minute ks”. It’s a great way to freshen up after a busy week and we hope to attract runners and walkers from across the business who want to have a bit of fun and a gentle roll around the tan or Treasury Gardens. The club hosts a Christmas Champagne Breakfast, and we collaborated with the Australian Women’s Business Alliance for our International Women’s Day event. We recently had our first charity event with proceeds going to Carrie Bickmore’s Beanies for Brain Cancer.


Has it changed your lives? If so, how?


Giving back is a core value of Morgan Stanley and for the very small commitment of sending a weekly email, turning up or organising an event or two, our people get the opportunity to improve their physical and mental health.


What do you all love most about it and why?


We love the mystery around how many people will turn up outside the locker rooms! Most of all, the endorphins from a slow run or walk make Fridays better, and going home to families and into the weekend feels fresher too.


What has the club taught you all?


That we can commit, and that the longer the club exists the more special it is! We care about the people around us, and that is clearly a driver.


What would you say to someone thinking of joining a club like this who might have reservations?

Get started and turn up. There are run clubs operating out of our Sydney and Hong Kong offices and we would encourage anyone to get involved. It is a challenge to keep going and commit regularly. Sometimes we don’t feel like it but afterwards we feel fresher and have a spring in our step and wonder what all of the fuss was about before we put our sneakers on.



VERONICA

Facilities Manager, JLL

Events & Promotions


Tell us about your community and how long you’ve been a member.


I have worked in the promotions and events space on most weekends for 20 years. The work is wide and varied – I can be anything from an Event Manager, Team Leader or Brand Ambassador to a Mascot Minder or better yet, an actual Mascot!


Why is it important to you to be part of the events and promotions community?


I get emotional trying to explain how important it is for me – it gives me goosebumps! I look forward to the wild and wonderful nature of the work, learning about different brands and companies, and being lucky enough to represent them. But most of all it’s about friendships. I have made so many lifelong friends with like-minded, happy and creative people and I’m forever embracing new skills and challenges that I wouldn’t in a corporate setting. Meeting new people from all walks of life really fuels my soul.


Has it changed your life? If so, how?


More than I can say. I started as a reserved 18-year old wanting to try a different approach in order to gain confidence in the things I lacked – approaching people, social skills, making friends and going out. The benefits have been enormous. This work has completely changed my personality. Instead of being a standalone introvert, I’m now an extroverted introvert. It’s brought me out of my shell.


What do you love most about it and why?


It gives my life meaning, purpose, structure and most of all, joy. You work in situations you would never imagine, like slinging t-shirts in the middle of the MCG in front of a crowd of 80,000 people, or having thousands of kids line up for a picture with you because you’re Tilly the Mascot! Not many people do this sort of work for 20 years, but I never see myself stopping.


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