Yes, it's on again! After a roaring success in 2008 (plus the place-holder party that was the Halloween Horror Shuffle) - and the blessing of Mr Zombies himself, George A. Romero! - the Melbourne Zombie Shuffle is back for another year of BRRAAAIIINNSS!!

Come along dressed in your zombie finery and give the citizens of the CBD something to scream/laugh/take photos/talk about.

THE ROUTE:

Meet at the Carlton Gardens on the corner of Rathdowne and Victoria Streets in Carlton. Then, once the horde is assembled, we head down this path:

Gardens > La Trobe > Swanston > Southbank > Crown

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The usual rules apply in order to make this another fun, memorable event for all involved:

1. NO DICKHEADS. We might be undead, but we pride ourselves on running an event that is enjoyable for all. Violence, destruction of property, and general toolishness will NOT be tolerated. If you are going to stage a 'zombie attack', make sure you've cleared it with your "victim" beforehand.

1.a. NO VIOLENCE. Yes, this may seem like an odd request given the nature of the event, but keep realistic weapons, water pistols, water bombs etc to a minimum - in fact, we'd prefer it if you didn't bring them at all. The Melbourne Zombie Shuffle operates with the cooperation of Victoria Police, so we don't want that jeapordised by the actions of a few nongs who think they're in an Eli Roth film, thanks.

2. RESPECT OTHER PEOPLE AND OTHER PEOPLE'S PROPERTY. Keep your blood and guts to yourself (or other consenting zombies). No splattering passersby, no glooping people's shops, shopfronts or stock, no scaring children, old people or animals (unless they are participating in the shuffle!)

3. OBEY THE ROAD RULES. We don't want you to get killed again; keep the horde to the sidewalks, cross on the green man, don't block traffic, etc.

4. HAVE FUN! This is the most important rule of all - get into it! Don't stand around worrying if your blood looks real enough, or feeling awkward - embrace your inner undead!

5. NO DICKHEADS. Just wanted to make sure you were paying attention.

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FAQ

Q. What can I come dressed as?
A. Simple - a zombie of any description! Check out the Melbourne Zombie Shuffle FB group for some ideas from last year's shuffles.

Q. I have a child/nanna/disability/family pet - can I come, too?
A. Absolutely! The Melbourne Zombie Shuffle prides itself on being an all-inclusive event; 2008's Shuffle saw zombies from the age of 2 up to 72 and everything in between, and even two zombie dogs. The Shuffle takes a route through the city that is accessible to people of all ability levels.

Q. Do I have to? Can't I just tag along and laugh/point?
A. Don't be boring!

Q. Seriously, I'd rather take photos. Check out my awesome telephoto/zoom/addon...
A. Feel free then - but get ready to run ahead of a very large pack of unruly zombies!

Q. Where do I get zombie supplies?
A. The internet is a good place to start; you can find instructions that will help you create a zombie visage from little more than the contents of your kitchen cupboard! In Melbourne, try Kryolan Cosmetics (Little Collins St, near cnr Russell) for latex and make-up, and Bernard's Magic (Elizabeth St opp GPO) for extra bits and bobs like teeth, readymade wounds and the old 'knife through the head' number.

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Any other questions? Just add them to the wall or email us on zombieshufflemelbourne@gmail.com!