FREE & FUN: OUR TOP TIPS ON GETTING YOUR FAMILY OUTDOORS THIS EASTER
Easter holidays; that little break from the daily grind where we get to breathe a little, indulge in sweet treats and get some quality family time. This all sounds very relaxing until we’ve accidentally indulged a little too hard and wound up shorter changed than we’d hoped. Alas! We have the answer. There are plenty of free and exciting activities we’ve found in your neck of the woods that will keep the kids entertained over the break.
Photo: Mt Barney Lodge
QLD
Nature Play - Mt Barney Lodge
Situated in the stunning World Heritage listed Mt Barney Nation Park lies Mt Barney Lodge. Day visitors are welcome and encouraged to take in the spectacular views while participating in family activities. Nature Play is a free program that encourages the kids to get outside and explore by completing missions in their Nature Play ‘Passport to An Amazing Childhood’. Swimming and bushwalks are also easily accessible in the area and enjoyed by all ages. Visit the Mt Barney Lodge Kids Activity brochure for more information.
Daisy Hill Koala Centre
For something a little closer to Brisbane yet still day trip worthy, the Daisy Hill Regional Park is a great option! Both adults and children are given the opportunity to delve into the world of Australia’s most iconic animal, the koala. Highly recommended is a picnic underneath the gumtree surrounding the centre and the chance to spot a koala in the wild.
NSW
Aboriginal Roving Ranger - Dorrigo Rainforest
Meet Uncle Mark Flanders these holidays, a Gumbaynggirr Elder and Aboriginal roving ranger. Free of charge you will discover how the Gumbaynggirr People found resources for food, medicine and shelter in the rainforest and you may even get to hear a Dreamtime story or two. Situated between the Dorrigo Rainforest Centre and the Glade picnic area, why not make a day of it?
Discovery Centre, Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. Photo: Rob Cleary
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve
Delve even deeper into Aboriginal history with a visit to the Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve. The learning space has won numerous awards with its detailed and captivating Dreamtime stories. You may also like to explore the island with a local Aboriginal Discovery Ranger. Signage along the short island walk also makes for the perfect opportunity to take the family on a self-guided tour.
VIC
Open Air Band Stand – Wattle Park
The perfect picnic situation; under the trees in the tranquil and historic environment of Wattle Park. Catch a band recital at the open-air band stand one afternoon these holidays for something a little different.
Portsea Craft Market – Point Nepean National Park
Make your Easter grocery shop a little more exciting and fresher with a visit to the markets! With over 250 stalls showcasing South Australia’s best local produce, crafts, food and entertainment, the Portsea Market is great for the whole family. Situated in the heart of Quarantine Station’s historic buildings, these markets are worth the visit for scenic value alone.
Find out more
SA
Park of the month – Deep Creek Conservation Park
Each month Parks South Australia select a ‘Park of the Month’ and invite the public to join in on a range of family-friendly events and activities. This month it’s Deep Creek Conservation Park. Keep an eye out for events along the likes of art in the park, guided walks, hiking and yoga and much more!
WA
Koala Talk - Yanchep National Park
For the nature fix you crave, the Koala Talks at Yanchep National Park are ideal. You and your family will learn all about this animal at the daily talks on the koala boardwalk. You will also discove what you can do to help their environment.
Walkers in Purnululu National Park Photo: Colin Ingram
Tremendous Adventures in Trees
Western Australia is home to almost 18 million hectares of forests and woodlands so why not get amongst them these holidays? To optimise the natural beauty and have and have a fun filled day out, check out the Parks WA website for tree and forest adventures.
NT
Berry Springs National Park
For the relaxing nature fix you crave this break why not head just out of Darwin to Berry Springs? Berry Springs is one of Darwin’s most beautiful parks to cool off in with natural swimming holes and well-equipped picnic areas. If you’re looking to make a day of it, one of Ecotourism Australia’s certified companies, Ethical Adventures, run a free charter between the springs and the popular, family friendly, Territory Wildlife Park.
Berry Spring Nature Park waterfall. Photo: NT.GOV.AU
TAS
Nature Play – Mount Field National Park
Free, fun and nature filled. In partnership with ‘A Healthy Parks Healthy People Program’ the kids will love working through the missions in their Nature Play passport missions.
41 Degrees South Salmon and Ginseng Farm – Red Hills
Within the Tasmanian World Heritage Area, 45 minutes from Launceston or Devonport, lies a salmon farm, ginseng nursery and natural wetlands on the one property of 41 Degrees South. Take the family on a self-guided tour around the grounds that will lead you along the base of Montana Falls. For something for the adults, free tastings are available and there is a fully licensed café if you’d like to stop for lunch.