No.1 Spots @UOM’s Campus

By Lauren Howie, The University of Melbourne

No matter the day there’s always plenty of things to do around Melbourne’s campus from free BBQs and live music, to cosy study spots and farmer markets – the list is endless! So if your wanting to make your day at uni a little less studious and a whole lot more enjoyable, here’s a quick guide to my N.1 spots on campus.

Melbourne University Garden

Union House

North Court, Union House

Melbourne’s Union House closely resembles Manchester’s Student Union with an outdated bar, chilling area and more than enough places to grab a bite to eat. Yet it’s safe to say that’s where the similarities end.

For Melbourne University students the Union House is the heart of the campus, and it’s no surprise why! On Tuesdays the Union House holds an entirely free BBQ with hundreds of ‘snags’ (sizzled sausages or veggie equivalents wrapped in bread and drenched in ketchup) and a soft or alcoholic beverage. To accompany your snag, the Union House puts on a weekly performance. The most loved of which is BABBA – Australia’s premier Abba tribute act – it’s truly a sight to behold!

If by Wednesday you’re still craving cheap and cheerful fun, then head to North Court for a $3 Vegan lunch, you won’t regret it!

South Court, Union House

The Union House also has a strictly ‘no study only relax’ space called the Rowden White Library, or ‘Rowdy’ for short. This cosy room tucked away on the second floor of Union House is fully equipped with bean bags and over 7000 DVDs, books and games. It’s perfect for when your needing some chill out time between lectures!

University of Melbourne Gym

UOM Swimming Pool

The university’s gym facilities are considered some of the best and most affordable in Melbourne. They offer a huge range of fitness and sport classes every day of the week including yoga, stretch and tone and body attack (Auch). The university also has a swimming pool and track on campus. These are included in the gym membership or can be used at one off occasions for a small cost. There are also showers and changing facilities at the gym making it easier to pop in before or after lectures.

UOM Track

Farmer’s Market

Every Wednesday 10:30am-14:30pm the University hosts a farmer’s market jam-packed with Melbourne’s tastiest food stalls. There’s something for everyone from Thai curries, dumplings, paella, bagels and woodfire pizzas! If you fancy becoming a sustainable shopper than it’s also a great opportunity to pick up some fresh, seasonal and local produce direct from Victorian farmers and producers – just don’t forget to bring your keep cups and reusable bags!

East Court, Farmers Market

Coffee Spots

Melbourne is highly regarded for its coffee and the University does not fall short on this reputation! There are numerous coffee shops dotted around the campus, but some really go the extra mile. My favourite has to be the House of Cards. Instead of asking for your name you are given a playing card, when your order is ready your card will be called and you then get the chance to place it into one of four charity boxes – The café uses its monthly profits to make a donation to the charity on your behalf!

House of Cards Cafe

South Lawn

South Lawn is a sprawling green space right on the doorstop of the Baillieu Library. It’s the perfect spot to soak up some Australian rays and get that much-needed vitamin C. Make sure to go here for the society stalls and events – these are held on most days and normally include lots of free or low-cost giveaways!