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Upcoming Speed Dating Events in Southbank

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Single?  Over Dating Apps?

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Spice Market
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Fri, 11 October, 7:00 pm AEST
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Beaney Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000 3000
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD
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Diesel Bar & Eatery
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Sat, 19 October, 5:00 pm AEST
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202 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD
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Diesel Bar & Eatery
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Sat, 26 October, 5:00 pm AEST
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202 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD
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Diesel Bar & Eatery
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Sat, 2 November, 5:00 pm AEST
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202 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD
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Hotel Railway Brunswick
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Wed, 6 November, 7:00 pm AEST
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291 Albert St, Brunswick VIC 3056
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD
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Diesel Bar & Eatery
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Sat, 9 November, 5:00 pm AEST
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202 Little Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD
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Spice Market
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Fri, 15 November, 7:00 pm AEST
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Beaney Ln, Melbourne VIC 3000 3000
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Tickets from $29.90 AUD

3756+ people

Attend each Month

10104+ Dates

Mini Dates each week

43 Attendees

Average event attendance

735 Events

Singles events each year

Speed Dating Social Events In Southbank

Ah, the single life in Southbank, Melbourne – where the Yarra River flows and so does the potential for love! But let’s face it, finding your perfect match in this bustling urban paradise can be as challenging as snagging a prime spot at Arbory Afloat during summer. Enter Southbank speed dating, the turbo-charged way to meet multiple singles in one night. Picture this: you’re at Left Bank Melbourne, embarking on 12 whirlwind five-minute dates. Ladies, you’re comfortably seated while gents rotate, both of you ticking ‘match’ or ‘friends’ on our nifty matching platform. Wake up the next day to your matches’ contact details in your inbox – talk about instant gratification! Who knows, you might just find yourself strolling hand-in-hand along Southbank Promenade with your new flame, planning your first proper date at the NGV.

Let’s be real, swiping endlessly on Tinder can leave you feeling more drained than inspired. Speed dating in Australia offers a refreshing change of pace, letting you gauge that all-important chemistry face-to-face. No more awkward “You don’t look like your profile pic” moments! Plus, you’re guaranteed conversation starters with fellow Melburnians. Imagine bonding over your shared love for the city’s hidden laneways or debating the best spot to catch a sunset at St Kilda Beach. And if things go south? No worries, mate – you’ve only invested five minutes, not weeks of text purgatory. With landmarks like Crown Casino and the Arts Centre spire as your backdrop, these Southbank singles events offer a uniquely Melbourne twist on finding love.

Southbank’s vibrant Riverside Quay is where the magic happens, with Left Bank Melbourne and Ponyfish Island serving as our go-to venues for these not-so-blind dates. Left Bank offers a chic, modern setting with stunning river views – perfect for impressing your potential matches. Ponyfish Island, nestled under the Evan Walker Bridge, brings a quirky, intimate vibe that’ll have you feeling like you’re on a secret rendezvous. To reach these hotspots, hop on the 70 tram along Flinders Street and hop off at Queensbridge Street/Flinders Street. Pro tip: Arrive early, grab a drink to calm those nerves, and remember – authenticity is your best wingman. So, what are you waiting for? Book your ticket now and let’s turn those sparks into flames!

How it works

Here’s the lowdown: snag a ticket (early bird if you’re thrifty, last release if you’re spontaneous), then rock up to find yourself greeted by  Docklands and CBD hosts who are more excited about your love life than your mum. You’ll scan a QR code faster than you can say “swipe right” to access the Matching App 4.0. After some pre-game mingling, ladies take their seats while gents play musical chairs. You’ll have 12 mini-dates, each a five-minute sprint of charm and wit. At 8pm, there’s a 10-minute breather (perfect for a quick lipstick touch-up or to practice your best “interested” nod). By 9pm, it’s all over – but the butterflies are just beginning.

Speed Dating Social

These love-fests happen every Thursday and Friday, because who doesn’t want to kick off their weekend with a dozen new phone numbers? Founded by cupid-in-chief Darcy Todd in 2020, Speed Dating Social has played matchmaker at over 787 events, introducing a whopping 37,423 singles. Tickets will set you back $29.90 or $34.90 (cheaper than a night of cocktails at Eau de Vie, and potentially more rewarding). No refunds, but give them a week’s notice and they’ll happily swap your ticket faster than you can say “it’s not you, it’s me.” Questions? Shoot an email to matches@speeddatingsocial.com – they’re almost as responsive as your most eager Tinder match.

Who you'll meet

Southbank speed dating is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get, but it’s all delicious. You’ll mingle with a smorgasbord of singles: bright-eyed students from Monash, suit-and-tie professionals fresh from the CBD, single parents juggling kids and careers, long-time locals who know every hidden bar in town, and mature singles proving that love has no expiry date. It’s like the United Nations of Dating, with delegates from neighboring Richmond bringing their hipster charm and South Yarra adding a dash of luxury to the mix. Pro tip: ask the Richmond folks about their favorite live music venues – instant cool points!

For our LGBTQ+ friends, there are rainbow-tinted events where you can find your gaydiar on point. Jewish singles can schmooze their way to love, while our Indian community has mixers spicier than a vindaloo. And for the single parents out there, we see you – and we’ve got your back. Book a sitter with Southbank Childcare Centre, then follow up your successful matches with a family-friendly date at ArtPlay. The kids can unleash their creativity while you work on creating a masterpiece of your own – a beautiful blended family.

What to wear

Dress to impress, but keep it comfy – you’ll be doing more chair-hopping than a game of musical chairs. Ladies, that LBD from Scanlan Theodore on Toorak Road never fails, paired with flats because stilettos and speed dating are a recipe for disaster. Gents, a smart casual look from Calibre at Emporium will have you looking sharper than a Masterchef judge’s palate. And if you’re in need of a confidence-boosting trim, swing by Rokk Ebony on Southbank Promenade – they’ll sort you out with a ‘do that says “I’m single, but not for long.”

What to talk about

Alright, time to flex those conversation muscles! Kick things off by chatting about the latest exhibition at the National Gallery of Victoria – nothing says “cultured” like discussing art over cocktails. Or, if you’re feeling playful, debate the best spot to watch the Crown Casino flames show – bonus points if you can make a “our love will be just as fiery” joke without cringing. These topics are your fast track to second date territory – NGV for the artsy types, Crown for the thrill-seekers.

For our Christian singles, break the ice by comparing notes on the beautiful St Johns Southgate Lutheran Church. Dog lovers can bond over plans to meet at Southbank’s best-kept secret, the Boyd Community Hub dog park. And for the fitness fanatics, chat up F45 Training Southbank – nothing says romance like comparing burpee techniques, right?

Our Most Popular Venues In Southbank

Left Bank Melbourne: Where Love Flows Like the Yarra

Left Bank Melbourne Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, perched on the riverside of 1 Southbank Blvd, is a testament to Southbank’s evolution. Once a quiet spot for riverside strolls, it’s now the beating heart of Melbourne’s social scene. The venue’s floor-to-ceiling windows offer breathtaking Yarra views, creating an instantly romantic atmosphere. The chic, modern decor, ambient lighting, and spacious layout make mingling a breeze. Don’t miss their signature “Love Potion” cocktail – it’s got more kick than Cupid’s arrow. What makes speed dating here special? The outdoor terrace is perfect for those “need some air” moments between dates. Insider tip: Snag a seat by the windows – the city lights twinkling on the Yarra make for a killer conversation starter.

Hopscotch: Skipping Straight to Love

Hopscotch, nestled on the Ground Floor at 4 Riverside Quay, is Southbank’s answer to the question, “Where can I find love and 30 different types of beer?” This industrial-chic venue, opened in 2016, boasts an impressive history as a former wool store. Now, it’s storing potential soulmates instead of sheep sweaters. The long, communal tables are perfect for speed dating, creating an intimate yet open atmosphere. The quirky hop-inspired decor and extensive craft beer list give you plenty to chat about between mini-dates. Their “Hopscotch Happiness” beer cocktail is a must-try – it’ll put a spring in your step and loosen those conversational muscles. Speed dating here is special because of the fun, relaxed vibe – it’s like meeting at a friend’s party, if your friend invited 50 eligible singles. Pro tip: Arrive early and chat with the bartenders – they’re a goldmine of icebreakers and local gossip.

Ponyfish Island: Love is an Island

Ponyfish Island, floating under the Evan Walker Bridge, is the stuff of Melbourne legend. This quirky venue, born in 2008, started as a simple pontoon and has grown into one of the city’s most unique bars. Surrounded by water on all sides, it’s like speed dating on a love boat – without the motion sickness. The intimate space creates an instant connection between daters, while the panoramic river views provide a stunning backdrop for your five-minute romance. Their “Island Time” cocktail is tropical perfection – sip it and pretend you’re speed dating in Bali. What makes this spot special for speed dating? The close quarters and unique setting break down barriers faster than you can say “So, do you come here often?” Insider secret: If conversation lulls, play “spot the water taxi” – first to see one gets a second date!

Frequently Asked Questions

Looking to make a killer first impression at our Southbank speed dating soiree? Gentlemen, ditch the board shorts and thongs (we know, it’s tempting) and opt for smart casual. A crisp button-down from Harrolds on Collins Street paired with well-fitted chinos will have you looking sharper than a barista’s latte art. Ladies, channel your inner South Yarra socialite with a chic cocktail dress from Scanlan Theodore on Toorak Road. Remember, accessories speak louder than words – a statement necklace or a dapper watch can be great conversation starters. Just avoid anything too jingly or flashy; you want your dates focusing on your witty banter, not your noisy bangles!

Imagine the MCG on Grand Final day, but instead of footy fans, it’s a sea of singles ready to mingle… okay, maybe not quite that many, but our Southbank speed dating events typically attract around 40 lovestruck hopefuls. We aim for a 50:50 ratio of men to women, perfectly balanced like a well-crafted flat white. Attendees flock from neighboring Richmond and South Yarra, bringing a mix of hipster charm and old-money swagger. Sure, we might have a few no-shows (about 15% decide Netflix is more enticing), but fear not! We overbook to ensure you’ll always have plenty of mini-dates. It’s like musical chairs, but with less music and more romantic potential!

Want to find your perfect match faster than you can say “swipe right”? At our Southbank speed dating events, it’s all about tapping into local passions. Kick off the convo by chatting about your latest adventure at ArtVo, the immersive 3D art gallery at The District Docklands. Or bond over your shared love of paddleboarding on the Yarra – nothing says romance like accidentally falling into murky river water, right? Pro tip: suggest a follow-up date to catch a show at the Malthouse Theatre. It’s the perfect way to see if your potential partner’s taste in drama is limited to the stage, or if they’re bringing some of their own!

Southbank speed dating is like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re gonna get, but it’s all deliciously intriguing! You might rub elbows with suited-up finance bros from NAB’s Docklands HQ, or chat up artsy types fresh from a creative sesh at the Victorian College of the Arts. Don’t be surprised if you meet a teacher from Albert Park College looking for love between lesson plans. Our events draw folks from leafy Toorak, bringing old-money charm, and St Kilda beach bums with salt in their hair and adventure in their hearts. It’s a melting pot of personalities, proving that in Southbank, love truly knows no boundaries – except maybe the Yarra.

Let’s keep it real – speed dating isn’t all roses and violins. For starters, if you live more than an hour’s drive from Southbank, you might spend more time battling traffic than finding true love. Sorry, Geelong singles! And if you’re not old enough to remember the Spice Girls’ debut, you’ll have to sit this one out – our bar venues are strictly 18+. No-shows can be a bummer, but we’ve got you covered with a 5-minute chill session to drown your sorrows in a cheeky espresso martini. Plus, making a stellar first impression in five minutes is tougher than finding a park on Chapel Street on a Saturday. But hey, at least it’s not as soul-crushing as being left on “read” for days!

Picture this: you’re at a swanky Southbank hotspot like Left Bank, surrounded by singles more nervous than a Collingwood fan during finals. That’s speed dating, baby! It’s like Tinder, but with actual face-to-face conversation (shocking, we know). You’ll have 12 five-minute chats, just enough time to decide if you’re more compatible than vegemite and avocado toast. At the end, you’ll discreetly mark your matches faster than a Melbourne weather change. Fun fact: this love-in-the-fast-lane concept was dreamed up by Rabbi Yaacov Deyo in ’98 in LA. Who knew a rabbi would be the ultimate wingman? It’s like JSwipe, but with less swiping and more schlep!

Let’s cut to the chase – does speed dating actually work, or is it just another gimmick like dairy-free cheese? Well, according to science (yeah, we’re getting all nerdy on you), there’s a 69% chance you’ll like someone who likes you back. That’s better odds than finding a park in the CBD on a weekday! Many of our Southbank singles have found a spark faster than you can say “hook turn.” Sure, it might feel like speed-friending at first, but who knows? That person across the table could be your future Bunnings sausage sizzle partner. Don’t believe us? Check out the research. Science doesn’t lie, folks!

Hallelujah! For all you God-loving singles out there, we’ve got Christian speed dating events that’ll have you praising more than just the Lord. Whether you’re Catholic, Anglican, or Pentecostal, you’ll find kindred spirits faster than you can say “Amen.” It’s like Christian Mingle, but with real-life people instead of pixelated profile pics. Bond over your shared values, debate your favorite Bible verses, or discuss whether Noah’s Ark could fit on the Yarra (spoiler: it couldn’t). For a heavenly follow-up date, why not suggest a Sunday service at St Johns Southgate? Nothing says “match made in heaven” like sharing a hymn book. Just remember, folks – WWJD? (What Would Jesus Date?)

Ni hao, love seekers! Our Asian speed dating events in Southbank are hotter than a bowl of Sichuan hotpot. Whether you’re Chinese, Japanese, Korean, or Vietnamese, you’ll find singles who can appreciate the difference between bubble tea and boba. These events usually go down at Jing’an Restaurant, where you can impress your dates with your chopstick skills (or lack thereof). It’s like AsianDating.com, but with real-time judgment of your siu mai eating technique. Bond over your shared love of K-dramas, debate the best dim sum in Chinatown, or plan a bubble tea date at Gong Cha on Swanston Street. Who knows? You might just find your Asian drama-worthy love story!

Gone are the days of scribbling phone numbers on napkins like some ’90s rom-com. Welcome to the digital age, lovebirds! At our Southbank speed dating events, you’ll use our snazzy Matching App 4.0 faster than you can say “swipe right.” Just scan the QR code (it’s like a barcode, but fancier), punch in your deets and event code, and voila! You’re ready to play Cupid. After each mini-date, discreetly tap ‘Match’ or ‘Friend’ – it’s like hot or not, but with less pressure and more politeness. Come 8am the next day, check your inbox. If you’ve got matches, congrats! Time to slide into those DMs and plan that coffee date at Degraves Street.

Calling all fitness fanatics and health nuts! Our fitness speed dating events in Southbank are the perfect place to flex your muscles and your chat-up lines. It’s like Tinder, but everyone’s profile pic is them mid-burpee. Bond over your shared love of green smoothies, compare Fitbit stats, or debate the merits of HIIT vs. Pilates. You could chat about your latest workout at Fitness First Southbank or your paddleboarding adventures on the Yarra. For a pumped-up first date, why not suggest a couples’ workout at F45 Training Southbank? Nothing says romance like counting each other’s sit-ups. Remember, the couple that sweats together, stays together!

So, you’ve scored a match at our Southbank speed dating event – congrats, Casanova! Now, where to take your potential soulmate? For a night of culture and class, you can’t go wrong with the Arts Centre Melbourne. Nothing says “I’m sophisticated” like pretending to understand modern dance, right? Or, if you’re feeling fancy, treat your date to dinner with a view at Eureka 89. Just don’t look down if you’re afraid of heights – or commitment! Pro tip: suggest a pre-dinner stroll along the Yarra Promenade. It’s the perfect chance to “accidentally” brush hands and pretend you didn’t plan it. Remember, in Southbank, love is always just around the river bend!

Let’s talk turkey about our refund policy – or rather, our no-refund policy. We’re not trying to be meanies, but organizing these love-fests is trickier than navigating a hook turn in the CBD. However, we’re not completely heartless! If Cupid’s arrow has struck elsewhere (or you’ve come down with a bad case of cold feet), give us a shout at matches@speeddatingsocial.com at least 7 days before the event. We might be able to transfer your ticket to another event faster than you can say “It’s not you, it’s me.” Just remember, this isn’t an open-ended rain check – you’ll need to pick a specific event. And please, email us directly – sliding into our DMs on Insta won’t cut it!