Bree is one of Untox’s newer hosts, getting involved post-the-second-Melbourne-lockdown when everyone was desperate for some much-needed human contact. She has thrown herself into it with verve and has hosted a wide range of events including a graffiti tour at the laneways, movies, walks and brunches. She shares with us what the experience has been like for her so far.

What drew you to hosting with Untoxicated?

I decided to become a host because I was gracefully asked. I loved seeing all the posts about the Queensland and Brisbane meetups and wanted to get them back happening in Melbourne, after COVID lockdown. I made a few comments about how I would love to catch up with other Untoxers in Melbourne and people reacted. I realised there are a lot of people like me. Wanting to be social with like minded peeps, without booze.

What do you like about being a host?

I like the capacity and ease of meeting new people. When I was drinking, I was in my social bubble. Now I’m opening myself to meet new people and doing it almost on my own. I’ve had wonderful mentoring from Faye and Helen. I’m not great at technology, but this is also what I enjoy, the social side. I’m learning more about all of this and how to be direct and straight with people.

I love how after one meetup of 10 people who had never met before - or ever been social with people trying to not drink anymore - could just freely talk. It was easy.

“I’ve made 5 or 6 close friends now and its really opened my mind to how alcohol can really affect anyone!!”

Have you benefited personally?

Yes I have benefited from this amazing experience. I have learnt I am able to bring people togeher and, well sort of make people feel welcome when they're quite vunerable. I've discovered how wonderful our Melbourne city is and how much there is for us to do. Things I would never have done if I wasn't involved in Untox!

I’ve made some wonderful friends. I never knew how much I needed to do this to help my sobriety.

My confidence has definitely grown. I was so anxious about one meetup I got a shocking migraine. But one of the friends I’ve made, Emma, took over and hosted for the night. I'd only met her once and she gave me so much support. It is getting easier. I just do it now with an open mind.

Any advice for someone considering hosting?

DO IT! it will bring so much joy to you and open you to experiences you would never have done when you were drinking.

You will grow as a person and see how capable you are. And you'll be amazed by how brave people are when we are at our most vunerable. It takes a lot to turn up at a strange place with new people, not drinking.

“It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

Wanna be part of something pretty special? We support hosts to come on board and you will receive guidance on how to run a meet up.

Have a look at our hosting page, check out the video and drop us a line if you’re keen!