Games and cuppa: Bringing community together

Published on 16 July 2026

Each Thursday afternoon, anyone walking past the Diamond Creek Living & Learning Hub is treated to the sound of laughter and cheers, as the “Games and cuppa” group meet to do battle.

The weekly two-hour activity is a free, informal social gathering where locals meet to chat and enjoy a friendly game of cards, Scrabble or any other game of choice.

“I am really bad at learning new games,” jokes Claire, one of the group’s volunteers, “but I’ve been taught a lot by the people who come in. Some people get really opinionated about it, but it’s lots of fun.”

Claire enjoys how the group brings people together. “It gives you a sense of community and togetherness. It’s nice being able to talk to people and have people be really interested in your life. It’s also about hearing what’s going on in other people’s lives and appreciating what other people are going through.”

Michaela, another volunteer at “Games and cuppa”, says she enjoys both the games and the social interactions.

“For me, a big part of it is the intergenerational friendships you make with people,” she says. “We have a lot of older people coming to Games and Cuppa, so as a young person I enjoy getting to interact with people I might not usually meet in other social settings.”

Rita, another volunteer in the group, agrees.

“It’s welcoming to everyone, regardless of age, background or experience with games,” says Rita. “If you enjoy meeting new people and having a good time, this is the place for you. Friendly volunteers are always there to support you, so you can relax and have fun.”

“I’ve been volunteering for nearly a year, and I always feel happy and energised after each session.”

This free social group is just one of the ways Living & Learning Nillumbik is supporting Nillumbik Shire Council’s focus on supporting a connected, safe and inclusive community.

So, if you’re walking past on Cowin Street and hear the laughter drifting out the open door, why not come in and see what it’s like for yourself?

“Games and cuppa” runs each Thursday during school terms, 1–3pm at the Diamond Creek Living & Learning Hub, 119 Cowin Street, Diamond Creek.