Events

The Practical Doula delivers presentations, workshops and community education events across Melbourne and Victoria. Subjects include advance care planning, end-of-life conversations or understanding your options after death and more. Our events provide practical information in a welcoming and supportive environment. Whether you're part of a community group, healthcare organisation, neighbourhood house, service club or aged care provider, we can deliver gentle, insightful and practical sessions on end-of-life topics.

  • As part of the Victorian Seniors Festival, join Melanie from The Practical Doula for a free community information session exploring the important documents that can help you prepare for the future.

    Many people are unsure which end-of-life documents they need, when they should complete them, or how these documents can help their loved ones during difficult times. This session will provide a practical overview of key documents such as Advance Care Directives, Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Makers and Support People and other important planning considerations.

    Whether you are planning for yourself or supporting an ageing parent, this informative session will help you understand your options, make informed choices and reduce stress for those you care about.

    This session also serves as an introduction to Planning Ahead - Gentle Introduction to End-of Life-Documentation, The Practical Doula's more comprehensive workshop, being held on Tuesday 27 October at Godfrey Street Community House, for those wishing to explore these topics in greater depth.

    Date: Tuesday 06 October 2026
    Time: 1.00pm - 2.30pm
    Location: Godfrey Street Community House, 9 Godfrey Street, Bentleigh VIC 3204
    Cost: FREE

    Book your place:
    📞 Bookings will open in September.

  • Join a warm and supportive conversation about the importance of planning ahead in a non-judgmental and safe space.

    This session includes a simple, compassionate introduction to the documents that can help ensure your wishes are known and honoured. Whether you're just beginning to think about these topics or looking to feel more prepared, this is a safe space to learn, ask questions, and take the first steps - at your own pace.

    Included with registration is a take-home “Keep Calm and Prepare Kit” (value $15).

    Available for sale on the day will be a comprehensive End of Life Wishes Planning and Wishes Form. ‍

    Date: Tuesday 24 March
    Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
    Location: Godfrey Street Community House, 9 Godfrey Street, Bentleigh, VIC 3204

    Cost: $30.00

    ‍Book your place:
    📞 Bookings will open in September

✨✨✨ Forthcoming events ✨✨✨

Presentations & workshops tailored to your audience

Each session is thoughtfully tailored to suit the needs and interests of your group.

Popular topics include:

  • What does an End-of-Life Doula do?

  • Advance Care Planning: A gentle introduction

  • What Matters Most: Values-based conversations about ageing and dying

  • Discussing legacy options and what your legacy will be

  • Supporting families through sudden death

To discuss a tailored presentation or workshop, please contact Melanie or call 0406 622 091.

Previous events:

Melanie has exhibited and presented at a wide range of venues throughout Melbourne, including:

  • Crafted Conversations - Jewellery making and end-of-life planning info - Nov 2025

  • Care Expo 2025 – Exhibitor at Care Expo

  • Godfrey Street Community House – Dying to Know Day - come and ask your questions

  • U3A Hawthorn – “What does an End of Life Doula do?”

  • Vermont South Neighbourhood House – Advance Care Plan Workshops

  • BlueCross Livingstone Gardens – “What Matters to You Most” Workshop for residents, families and staff

  • Wheelers Hill Lions Club – Community Presentation

    🌟 See feedback from past participants on the Testimonials page.

“Planning Ahead” workshop - Godfrey Street Community House in Sep 2025.

Crafted Conversations - with Despina and Storm at Gilded Poppy in Nov 2025

Photos from Care Expo 2025:

The Care Expo presented a fabulous opportunity to talk to so many people about services that can be provided to reduce burden and overwhelm!

If you're interested in hosting a workshop or presentation, get in touch with Melanie - she'd love to chat about how she can support your group.

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