Required Reading

The −TOPIAN Manifesto

We want this to form your leadership in the way we all operate within −TOPIA. A guide to a basic understanding of how to emulate care, respect and safety for all −topians.

Tessellate is an initiative that champions:

Bringing together and monetarily supporting local, emerging and established artists.
Elevating intrigue in the fine arts and multi-disciplinary practices to the same level as the conventional music/gig scene.
Providing a diverse range of communities a safe space in Melbourne/Naarm for self-expression.

Community is at Our Core

We lend a hand when someone is in need.

Creative & Open-Minded

Embracing the weird & quirky, don't be ashamed to let your unique ideas run wild when working within our team.

Inclusive & Diverse

We seek to engage people from all walks of life, to create a working environment with holistic perspectives.

Empathy & Understanding

There are no silly questions! Feel free to ask if you need clarity on anything without judgment. Reach out.

Safety & Security

We do not stand for intolerance or discrimination of any kind, your well-being is our priority. By reading and understanding the following procedures, you will help cement the safety of all involved. :)

Tessellate Club has a strict No Dickhead Policy. In part, this means looking after yourself and others. Just as importantly, it means treating each other with respect.

If you behave like a dickhead, this −TOPIA isn't for you. If you have a mate who behaves like a dickhead, please leave them at home. Ultimately, a major part of our mission as a third space is to foster a safe environment and to protect the welfare of our community. Any behaviour that threatens this will be met with a request to leave.

People who behave like dickheads, or people doing dickhead things, will usually find that someone firmly but politely lets them know that their dickhead behaviour is not admired or appreciated. The person behaving like a dickhead will usually realise and pull their head in. If not, they'll need to leave.

All roles at Tessellate are valued equally, and we respect the diversity among our volunteers, workers, artists and patrons. We believe in treating each other with respect and fostering an inclusive environment.

Any form of discrimination, harassment, violence or offensive behaviour based on race, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected attribute is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated.

−TOPIA festival takes place on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation at the Abbotsford Convent. From its days as a Kulin Nation meeting point, to a closed monastic site, to an inspiring community campaign resulting in today's arts and cultural precinct, our −topian meeting site is rooted in rich history.

In addition to this document, it is imperative that you read through the Abbotsford Convent's own Code of Conduct so you know how to properly and respectfully engage with the site.

As a volunteer at −TOPIA festival you are required to complete one shift in return for free access to the festival. Shifts are allocated across the 2 days before the festival (bump-in), the festival day, and the day after the festival (bump-out).

If you are allocated a shift during bump-in or bump-out, you will be required to complete 6 hours of work. These shifts include a 30-minute meal break (a meal will be provided for you per any dietary requirements you specified in your application form).

Shifts on festival day are 4 hours long, and it is expected that you complete these hours without taking a prolonged break (a 5-minute smoko is totally fine) (unlike bump-in/out, you will not be provided a meal).

All volunteers/workers will be given name tags (with pronouns) and are required to wear them whilst on site.

Your on-site contact for any emergencies or incidents is Lex Barlin (volunteer coordinator), you can reach him via any staff member's radio or alternatively via phone: +61 452 224 338. If you require immediate assistance, please head to the operations hub (location can be found on the site map).

The purpose of this alcohol/drug policy is to establish guidelines and procedures in order to provide a safe, healthy and injury-free workplace for all workers (employees, volunteers and contractors) working for Tessellate Club.

It is the responsibility of all workers to ensure they are fit for duty and not adversely affected by alcohol or drug use for the commencement of their agreed shift. If you are rostered on during the festival, it is important that you do not consume any alcohol or drugs prior to your shift.

Your safety is our top priority, and we will always take all measures to make sure you are okay. However, if you appear intoxicated or unfit to work in any way, you may be pulled aside, questioned and potentially asked to leave the venue.

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10.10.26 Abbotsford Convent set times + site map

-TOPIA Festival takes place Saturday 10 October 2026 at Abbotsford Convent, Melbourne.

10.10.26
Abbotsford Convent

set times + site map