Yesterday I spent the day at the Pokémon GO Safari event in Sydney.

If you know me, that might surprise you. I have a lot going on in my life, work, gym, travel, writing, family, friends – so Pokémon GO isn’t always something people associate with me, but it’s there, quietly ticking along in the background.

I started playing in 2016 when it first came out and never really stopped, when I start something, I find it difficult to stop. Events like yesterday remind me why I enjoy it, getting outside, walking for hours, and chatting to strangers who instantly feel familiar because you’re all there for the same reason. I was delighted to meet a popular Pokémon tiktoker who I have been following for some time. He arranged for people to meet up, share a photo and tag along with him if people wish. Super nice guy!!!

The event itself was simple and well put together. Different parts of the city encouraged you to keep moving, explore new areas, and spend time outside. There was a gentle sense of purpose to the walking, with people drifting along similar paths, stopping, chatting, and sharing the experience. It felt less like a game and more like a reason to be present in the city for the day and the weather was on point!

Does anyone else play Pokemon Go here? I was delighted with my finds and managed to clock in an impressive step count, winner winner chicken dinner!!!