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How to Find Your Hobby Groups and Community: A Guide to Interest-Based Friendships

By Chai Bade • January 09, 2025

Two women bonding over a shared gardening activity, watering and tending to plants, highlighting the benefits of joining a hobby group to build interest-based friendships.

Building connections with people who share your interests can be incredibly fulfilling. Whether you’re new to an area, looking to make friends, or exploring new passions, hobby groups and communities can enrich your social life and provide opportunities for personal growth. This guide will walk you through the steps to find hobby groups and communities in Australia, offering actionable tips and resources.

Why Join a Hobby Group?

  • Meet Like-Minded People: Share experiences and ideas with those who share your interests.
  • Learn and Grow: Gain new skills or enhance existing ones in a supportive environment.
  • Boost Wellbeing: Socialising and engaging in enjoyable activities can improve mental health.
  • Build Interest-Based Friendships: Form genuine connections based on shared passions.

How to Find Hobby Groups?

1. Explore Bunchups

Bunchups is a free platform that makes it easy to organise or join activities and connect with like-minded people, Bunchups is designed to help you form meaningful connections in your local community.

  • Free to Use: Organise or participate in activities at no cost.
  • Simple and Effective: Find or create activities which align with your interests in just a few clicks.
  • Focused on Friendships: Build genuine connections through shared hobbies.

2. Search Local Resources and Social Media

  • Facebook Groups: Use keywords like your hobby and location (e.g., “Photography Brisbane”) to discover active communities.
  • Local Directories: Websites like the Queensland Government’s community groups directory can help you locate groups in your area.
  • Libraries and Community Centres: Many host interest-based groups such as book clubs, craft sessions, or fitness classes.

3. Leverage Your Existing Network

Ask friends, family, or colleagues if they know of any groups you might enjoy. Often, word-of-mouth recommendations lead to the most welcoming communities.

4. Explore Social Media and Forums

Platforms like Reddit, Instagram, and specialised forums for hobbies (e.g., gardening, gaming, cooking) often feature threads or hashtags where people organise meetups or discuss hobbies.

5. Check Universities and Clubs

Even if you’re not a student, universities often allow community members to join hobby groups like drama clubs, language classes, or sports teams.

How to Choose the Right Hobby for You

If you’re unsure about your interests, here are some tips to help:

  • Reflect on Past Interests: Think about activities you enjoyed as a child or teenager.
  • Try New Things: Attend workshops or take up beginner classes in various activities.
  • Use the ‘5 Hobbies Rule’:
  • One hobby to make money.
  • One to keep you fit.
  • One to express creativity.
  • One to build knowledge.
  • One to socialise and have fun.

How to Commit to a Hobby Group

  • Start Small: Attend a trial session or casual meetup before committing fully.
  • Set Goals: Know what you want to achieve (e.g., learning a skill, making friends).
  • Consistency: Make attending a regular part of your routine.
  • Communicate: Share your availability and interests with group members to stay engaged.

How to Find Local Clubs or Groups?

Common Questions:

Platforms like Bunchups, local directories, and community events are the best places to start.
Bunchups and Facebook groups offer user-friendly tools to search by interest.

Yes, Bunchups, Facebook groups, local councils, and hobby-specific forums are great alternatives.

Examples of Popular Hobbies and Communities in Australia

  1. Outdoor Activities: Bushwalking, cycling, or kayaking groups.
  2. Creative Hobbies: Photography, painting, knitting, or pottery.
  3. Sports and Fitness: Yoga classes, soccer clubs, or gym-based group fitness.
  4. Technology: Coding bootcamps, robotics groups, or gaming communities.
  5. Food and Drink: Wine-tasting clubs, cooking workshops, or food tours.

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Resources to Explore

Final Tips for Building Interest-Based Friendships

  • Be Open and Approachable: Friendships form naturally when you’re welcoming.
  • Show Up Regularly: Consistency helps you bond with other members.
  • Participate Fully: Engage in discussions, offer help, and share your experiences.

Finding a hobby group is more than just finding people with similar interests; it’s about building a supportive community that enriches your life. Use the tools and tips outlined here, especially Bunchups, to explore new passions and form meaningful connections. Whether it’s a casual group or a structured club, you’ll find joy in shared experiences and interest-based friendships.

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