FREE MAGAZINE
Summer 2018/19
Christmas and Summer fun for Brisbane families Where to see Santa for free Family friendly beaches Outdoor cinemas Tangalooma day cruises Free local waterparks
www.brisbanekids.com.au
From 10 Nov Sensitive Santa Carindale, Chermside, Garden City Check individual website for dates
From 10 Nov Pet Photography Chermside, Garden City Check individual website for dates
DECEMBER
NOVEMBER
10 Nov to 24 Dec Santa Photos Carindale, Chermside, Garden City 14 & 21 Dec Carols Under the Dome Chermside
22 to 24 Dec Awkward Family photos Carindale
15 Dec Gingerbread Decorating Workshop Carindale 23 to 24 Dec Non-Stop-Shop Chermside
20 & 21 Dec Shop ‘til midnight Carindale, Chermside, Garden City
WELCOME
Brisbane Kids inspires families to grow, explore and make memories in the beautiful city of Brisbane and beyond.
The Brisbane Kids People
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Brisbane Kids is a free magazine published quarterly and circulated to schools, kindergartens and popular family locations in Brisbane. A digital version is also available for free online. The dates and times listed are accurate at the time of print. No responsibility is taken for errors, omissions, cancellations or changes. This magazine is copyright and cannot be reproduced without permission. Brisbane Kids Pty Ltd ABN 34456380201 4 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
WRITERS Cath Johnsen Paula Johnson Melanie Byers Louise Barber Wendy Laimant Kristen Bland Meaghan Brightwell Brooke Powell Content Editor Leigh Child Events Manager Louisa Allert Accounts Manager Ngaire Stirling Founder and CEO Debbie Hester Lead Designer Advertising enquiries print@brisbanekids.com.au Website www.brisbanekids.com.au
IN THIS ISSUE
Featured 6
8-9 10 11 Bribie Island
See the turtles at Mon Repos Must see Christmas events Unusual animal experiences Free places to see Santa
12-13 Outdoor summer cinemas
14-15 Tangalooma Island Resort 20
Things to do in the air con
27
‘Experience’ gift ideas
21-22 Coastal walks for families 28-29 Resorts with waterslides
30-31 Things to do on Bribie Island 32-33 Family friendly beaches Roma Street Parkland
36-37 Free local waterparks
Regulars 16
Holiday movies
18-19 Summer playgrounds 23-26 Coupons
34-35 Book now - Upcoming shows Tangalooma Island Resort
38
Events for teens
46
Plan ahead events
39-45 Summer Events Calendar
Sandy Santa
www.brisbanekids.com.au | 5
SEE THE TURTLES AT MON REPOS
See the turtles at Mon Repos
Time of year to visit: between November and March Mon Repos is a beach front Conservation Park that contains a turtle rookery with the biggest group of nesting turtles on the East Coast of Australia. Located around 15 minutes from Bundaberg, Mon Repos (French for ‘my rest’) is home to the Mon Repos Turtle Centre, managed by National Parks and Wildlife. Every year, from November to March, you can join rangers at Mon Repos Turtle Centre on a special guided tour to watch the marine turtles nesting (November to January) and baby turtles hatching (January to March).
Find out more: The Mon Repos Visitor Centre www.bundabergregion.org/ Turtle Facts • Sea turtles live for an average of 60 -80 years though many have broken this record! • Turtles lay an average of 130 eggs • Out of every 1000 turtles born, only one will make it to maturity • 6 out of 7 turtle species worldwide are classified as threatened or endangered • If your Brisbane Kid, (or your school), wants to protect the turtles they can get involved via www.tangaloomaecomarines.com/
Get ready for fun! Visit IKEA North Lakes or IKEA Logan for lots of fun, free activities to keep the kids entertained these school holidays. © Inter IKEA Systems B.V. 2018
Visit IKEA.com.au/Northlakes or IKEA.com.au/Logan to see what’s happening at your local IKEA Store.
MUST SEE CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Santa World
Enchanted Garden
Scarborough Christmas Carols
Christmas Wonderland
10 November – 24 December @ Indooroopilly Shopping Centre Explore a first-to-Brisbane, Queenslandinspired wonderland of lights, animatronics, baubles, florals and a sprinkling of magic. With waving koalas and surprises around every corner, this free Santa World experience should not be missed!
9 December @ Scarborough Beach Park Fall in love with the Santa’s Village, take part in kids’ activities, meet Santa, browse the twilight markets, sing along to the carols, see the roving Christmas performers, have fun in a life-sized snow globe and enjoy the dazzling Fireworks Finale. 8 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
7 – 19 December @ Roma Street Parkland Wander through the gardens on a warm summer night and enjoy the twinkling lights, charming Christmas decorations and mellow music. New additions this year include food trucks, live music and glittering fairies to find amongst the shimmering trees and gardens.
13 – 24 December @ Queens Park See the enchanting light display in Nerima Gardens that will sparkle nightly over 12 days, with unique live entertainment on stage on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings including Christmas shows, carols, parades, movies and of course, Santa!
MUST SEE CHRISTMAS EVENTS
Holly Jolly Kids
14 – 23 December @ South Bank Attend the Elf Academy and master all the acrobatic skills required to work alongside Santa including tightrope walking, juggling and aerial trapeze, or, for something a little less demanding, make Christmas decorations and learn choreography from The Queensland Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’.
Christmas by Starlight
15 December @ Redland Showgrounds Enjoy 3 hours of non-stop festive entertainment from over 60 local and national artists including Casey Donovan, Luke Antony and Alexa Curtis, as well as kids’ rides and activities, food trucks, drinks and merchandise stalls, plus a fireworks finale.
Christmas Parade presented by David Jones
14 – 23 December @ Queen Street Mall Celebrate the festive season with the amazing annual Christmas Parade where elves, dancers, magical floats and a parade of hundreds spreading Christmas cheer will lead Santa from the Edward Street end of the mall through to King George Square.
City of Logan Christmas Carols
15 December @ Griffith University Logan Campus Join the City of Logan to celebrate Christmas with a fun-filled night of entertainment, carols, kids’ rides, food trucks, free photos with Santa, fireworks, former Australian Idol winner Stan Walker, The Grinch Children’s Show and local choirs. www.brisbanekids.com.au | 9
UNUSUAL ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
unusual
animal experiences
In conjunction with Griffith University, Sea World is now host to the fascinating Griffith Sea Jellies Research Lab. The ‘Sea Jellies Illuminated’ exhibit is both interactive and educational, and features a huge array of illuminated sea jellies on display to the public.
Did you know that there’s a camel farm only around one hour’s drive from Brisbane?! Summer Land Camels not only offer farm tours and camel rides, but also produce a full range of camel products that are ethical, sustainable and organic.
Go bananas with a range of cheeky monkeys at Wildlife HQ on the Sunshine Coast (home of the Big Pineapple). When Alma Park Zoo closed, the monkeys relocated to this coastal location along with 200 other animals.
Free Santa Visits
PLACES TO VISIT SANTA FOR FREE
As a child, there is something very special and magical about seeing Santa at Christmas! While many families have the tradition of going to see jolly old Saint Nick at the local shopping centre for their annual Christmas photo, you will also see Santa popping up at other locations around Brisbane. The best thing is, many of these events are free!
Remember to check out your local shopping centres, department stores, Christmas street parades and Christmas carol events, as they most likely will provide the opportunity to get a glimpse of, and hopefully meet the man in red for free!
• • • • • • • •
Free Sensory Santa Photos 17 November – 22 December @ Indooroopilly Shopping Centre Centenary Santa Sleigh Selected dates in November & December @ Centenary Suburbs Greenbank Fire Station Christmas Fireworks Extravaganza 1 December @ Greenbank Fire Station Jingle All the Bay 7 December @ Einbunpin Lagoon The Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols 8 December @ Riverstage Community Christmas Party in Taigum 9 December @ Salvation Army North Brisbane Church Roaming Santa 12 – 24 December @ Various David Jones stores Christmas Gift Market 14 – 23 December @ South Bank
FREE DIGITAL SANTA PHOTOS Make Christmas even merrier with Santa photos in a Brisbane-first Santa World – a wonderland of lights, animatronics, baubles, native plants, animals and a dash of magic.
10 NOV – 24 DEC BRISBANE’S MERRIEST CHRISTMAS
SUMMER OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES Outdoor cinemas in Brisbane
Brisbane’s balmy summer evenings make enjoying a movie in the outdoors the perfect way to spend time together with family and friends. Tips for the best night out • Take insect repellent or mosquito bands • Are there food vans or are you taking food? • If it looks like rain, check the organisers to see if it’s still on • Get there early to reserve a spot • Take blankets and pillows for comfort Christmas Cinema, South Bank (14 - 23 December) – Free family Christmas movies enjoyed while you sit, laze and relax on the River Quay’s lawn. No tickets required. Movies in the Park, Manly (1st Saturday of the month) – Free family movies in the park. No tickets required. Lone Pine Outdoor Cinemas, Fig Tree Pocket (1st & 3rd Friday of the month) – Free family movies on Lone Pine’s three big screens. No tickets required.
14 – 22 DECEMBER, QPAC BRING THE
Soloist Mia Heathcote Photography David Kelly
SUMMER OUTDOOR EXPERIENCES Big Screen on the Green, Ascot (selected dates) – A variety of movies screened at Eagle Farm Racecourse, including family Christmas movies in December. Gold coin donation. Moonlight Cinema, Roma Street Parkland (29 November - 31 March ‘19) – A variety of movies screened in The Amphitheatre. Tickets available online or at the gate (subject to availability). Sunset Cinemas, Mt Coot-tha (opens 1 March ‘19) – A variety of movies screened in the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens. Tickets on sale online from 16 January 2019. Tivoli Drive-In, Chuwar (every Saturday night) – Budget-friendly movies on the big screen from the comfort of your car or outdoor chair. Tickets at the gate. Yatala Drive-In, Yatala (year ‘round) – A variety of family and other genre movies screened at an old-style drive-in theatre. Tickets at the gate.
THE VERY
CREATED BY JONATHAN ROCKEFELLER
HUNGRY BASED ON ERIC CARLE’S BOOKS
QUT GARDENS THEATRE 13-16 December
HUNGRYCATERPILLARSHOW.COM ™ & © 2018 Eric Carle LLC. All rights reserved.
TANGALOOMA ISLAND RESORT : SPECIAL FEATURE
hand feed wild dolphins DISCOVER BRISBANE’S HIDDEN PARADISE
Did you know that it’s possible to escape Brisbane to an island for a day of fun with your family? Tangalooma Island Resort’s day cruises allow your family to experience all the Island has to offer without the added expense of staying the night.
On our ferry ride home, Miss 8 fell asleep with the rocking of the waves while Master 10 asked when we were coming back again. It’s easy to forget the beautiful Island is just a short boat trip away from Brisbane and how much it has to offer for families. This was the perfect day trip to make memories with my Brisbane Kids!
After our quick ferry journey, we explored the Island and had fun making sandcastles and playing on the playground before we headed off to eat lunch with beach views (food vouchers are included in all day cruise packages). Then it was time to head over and get ready for the Desert Safari with sand toboganning. The Desert Safari was in Master 10’s words “so awesome!”. The 4WD drive to the sand dunes is an adventure with lots of bumps, laughs and great commentary along the way. Master 10 loved it and went up and down with me 5 times. Arriving back at the Resort, we used the VIP lounge to get refreshed before making use of the free resort activities. We played croquet, tennis, ping pong and boccie before heading off to see the kookaburra feeding. Finally the highlight of our trip was the wild dolphin feeding. No words can describe how amazing an experience this is. The kids and I loved every minute of it. Feeding and watching them swim up close was truly magical! 14 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
DAY CRUISES Day cruise options start from $89 per adult and $49 per child. Visit tangalooma.com for more details or to book your next day cruise today.
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DAISY HILL KOALA CENTRE
Discover Brisbane’s hidden paradise!
Book your family day cruise for these school holidays at tangalooma.com
SUMMER MOVIES
The Grinch
Ralph Breaks the Internet
Mary Poppins Returns
Storm Boy
Release date: 29 November 2018 Of course we all know the story... A grumpy Grinch, who likes to do mean things with style, plots to ruin Christmas for the entire village of Whoville, but with this movie we will get to meet his dog Max and find out the answer to why someone is so mean!
Release Date: 1 January 2019 Mary Poppins Returns sees the now grown-up Michael and Jane Banks, along with Michael’s three children, being visited by the mysterious Mary Poppins following a devastating loss. Through her magic and the help of her friend, Jack, Mary Poppins helps the Banks family rediscover joy and wonder. 16 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
Release Date: 26 December 2018 Six years after the events of ‘Wreck-It Ralph’, Ralph and Vanellope discover a wi-fi router in their arcade that leads them into a new adventure in the internet. It’s a world more amazing than they could ever imagine, featuring Disney Princesses and Star Wars characters.
Release Date: 17 January 2019 Storm Boy is now grown up and is a successful retired businessman and grandfather. He shares the stories with his granddaughter of how he rescued and raised an orphaned pelican called Mr Percival and how it had a profound impact on all their lives. The film stars Australian actor Geoffrey Rush as Storm Boy.
SUMMER HOLIDAYS PROGRAM 15 dec 2018 - 11 jan 2019 Book now at museumofbrisbane.com.au
ats liday se o h l o o Sch ilable still ava
SUMMER PLAYGROUNDS
Rocks Riverside Park Shallow waterplay under shade sails Play equipment including flying fox Riverside promenade Lots of seating, picnic tables, BBQs and shade Accessible toilet facilities Location Counihan Street in Seventeen Mile Rocks Coffee Within Walking Distance Stop at Cafe 63 at 532 Seventeen Mile Rocks Rd on your way to the park, as this is the closest café and is around 800m away. 18 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
Wynnum Whale Park Water play features Tidal wading pool (high tide) Forts with ocean theme Sheltered picnic tables and BBQs Beachside walking paths with jetty Accessible toilet facilities Location Wynnum Esplanade in Wynnum Coffee Within Walking Distance Also serving great fish and chips, Pelican’s Nest Café is located just across the road.
SUMMER PLAYGROUNDS
Roma Street Parkland Colourful, shaded playgrounds Climbing structures Trackless train (Wed-Sun, subject to change, gold coin donation) Walking paths Shaded BBQ areas with tables Accessible toilet facilities Location Wickham Terrace in Spring Hill Coffee Within Walking Distance Coffee available onsite at Melange CafĂŠ.
Arthur Davis Park Seaside theme play structures Wheelchair accessible merry-go-round Climbing trees BBQ facilities, benches, picnic tables & shelters Beachside walking paths Accessible toilet facilities Location Flinders Parade in Sandgate Coffee Within Walking Distance Serving coffee, ice creams and fish and chips, Fish on Flinders is located just across the road.
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COASTAL WALKS
North George Walk
Stradbroke Island North Gorge Walk The Stradbroke Island North Gorge Walk is a bucket list adventure just a short boat ride from Brisbane. Okay, it’s probably more than a day trip outing, but with so many camping and short stay options, why not make a weekend out of it! North George Walk
20 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
Following the rugged coastline around two rocky outcrops, the North Gorge Walk is a stunning headland walk. This is where the bush meets the ocean with viewing points along the way that showcase the magnificence of Moreton Bay. Pandanus palms frame perfect views of pristine beaches, turquoise waters crash and foam against the rocks, dolphins frolic in the surf and kangaroos nibble calmly at the grass on the edge of unspoilt bushland. You can also see lace monitors, echidnas and sea eagles, turtles, sharks and giant manta rays and even whales as they migrate up and down the Australian coastline. What you need to know • 1.2km long • Takes about 1 hour • Easy walking • Toilet facilities • Not pram or wheelchair friendly
COASTAL WALKS Other popular beach walks near Brisbane • Walk to King Island at Wellington Point on low tide • Explore the Caloundra Coastal Walk from Bells Creek at Golden Beach in the South to Point Cartwright, (or for a shorter version walk from Bullcock Beach to Kings Beach). • Take a stroll along the Redcliffe waterfront. You can start at various points from Woody Point to Scarborough with over 13km of coastal track to enjoy. • Burleigh Headland National Park Walk offers a 1.3km fairly easy Ocean View Walk or take the more challenging 2.3km Rainforest Circuit.
Dog friendly beach walks
You can walk your dog (on leash), along most beaches unless they are part of a National Park or signage indicates otherwise. Offleash beach walks close to Brisbane: There are offleash areas at Buddina Beach, Currimundi, Coolum and Buderim, Tallebudgera, Currumbin, The Spit and Bribie Island’s Red Beach. Offleash beach play in Brisbane: Tuckeroo Park at Nudgee Beach, G.J Walter Park Cleveland, Raby Bay Foreshore Park and certain beaches at Deception Bay (pay attention to signage and rules).
Burleigh Headlands Walk
King Island
Caloundra
Redcliffe Waterfront
KEEP COOL INDOORS Where to find fun in the air conditioning this summer
Brisbane’s summers are HOT. After already experiencing some sweltering days in November, it looks like we are in for another scorcher this year! We’ve come up with these inventive places to find air-conditioned relief from the heat that also get you all out of the house and having fun. Play centres – Indoor play centres let kids burn off energy and are perfect for families with kids of many ages. Parents and carers also get to grab a coffee or cold drink and relax for five minutes. Ten pin bowling centres – Fluoro lighting, lane bumpers, great music, arcade machines—ten pin bowling centres provide a FUN way to connect as a family! Libraries- Libraries across Brisbane offer quiet respite from the heat with many offering free holiday activities, plus they offer free wifi!
Trampoline parks – Not just big bouncy places, trampoline parks in Brisbane now include other activities such as indoor rock climbing, laser tag and more – perfect for bigger kids to burn off some steam! Shopping centres – Be sure to make a trip to your local shopping centre to cool down, especially in the school holidays when they often also host free or low-cost activities for the kids. Cinemas – Close to two hours relaxing in the air conditioning—what’s not to like?! Even better if you visit a cinema with recliners and can put your feet up! Museums – One thing all our wonderful Museums have in common is their airconditioning! Our top picks include the Queensland Museum, The Brisbane Museum, The Workshops Rail Museum and The Abbey Museum.
Time Pass
EAT, SLEEP, JUMP, REPEAT THIS SUMMER
PLAY EVERYDAY FOR UNDER $2 Find out more Skyzone.com.au
Sky Zone Macgregor 544 Kessels Rd, Macgregor
1 FREE CHILD PER FULLY PAID ADULT
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE
Child bowls free with any full priced paying adult. Bookings essential, please call to book. Phone 07 3263 8848 149 Albany Creek Rd, Aspley 4034.
Lollipops Cannon Hill Buy one get one free. Buy one child entry and get another of equal or lesser value free. Phone 07 3395 8111
www.aspley10pinbowl.com.au
www.cannonhill.lollipopsplayland.com.au
TWO FOR ONE
BUY ONE GET ONE FREE
2 for 1. 2 for the price of 1 for school holiday sessions at Skateaway Albany Creek. Phone 07 3325 1711
Buy 1 full price piece and get 1 free magnet piece valued up to $5* Shop 5/1396 Creek Rd, Carina, 4152 07 3843 4441
www.skateaway.net.au/holiday-sessions
www.pfhbrisbaneeast.com.au
TWO FOR ONE
TWO FOR ONE
2 Farm and Factory Tour Vouchers for the price of 1. Open Monday to Saturday 70 McCarthy Road, Maleny 4552 Phone 07 5494 2392
Get 2 for the price of 1. Use promo code: 241BK to book online or over the phone. 3 Flinders Parade, North Lakes, Qld 4509 Phone 07 3467 2285
www.malenydairies.com/
www.revolutionpark.com.au
www.brisbanekids.com.au | 23
LOLLIPOPS PLAYLAND & CAFE
ASPLEY 10 PIN BOWLING
Terms & Conditions Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid only at Lollipops Cannon Hill. We will accept the voucher presented on screen. Valid until 31/01/2019
Terms & Conditions Shoe hire NOT included. 1 free child per voucher only. Not valid for league or tournament play, or with any other offer. Valid until 28/02/2019
www.cannonhill.lollipopsplayland.com.au
www.aspley10pinbowl.com.au
PLASTER FUN HOUSE
SKATEAWAY
Terms & Conditions PRINTED COUPON ONLY *Limit: one per family per day. Valid until 25/01/2019
Terms & Conditions Only valid for day time sessions (Monday to Sunday). Not valid for learn to skate. Skate and blade hire extra. Valid 19/12/18 - 25/01/19
www.pfhbrisbaneeast.com.au
www.skateaway.net.au/holiday-sessions
REVOLUTION SPORTS PARK
MALENY DAIRIES
Terms & Conditions Cannot be used for parties or functions. Valid until 28/02/2019
Terms & Conditions Coupon must be surrendered upon use. Not redeemable for cash. Valid until 31/12/2019
www.revolutionpark.com.au
www.malenydairies.com/
24 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
10% OFF 2 RACES WITH LICENCE 10% off 2 races with licence% discount applies when purchasing 2 races with a race licence combined. Phone 1300 GO KARTING
TWO FOR ONE 2 for 1 coffee AND Kids Play Free from Conexio’s library of 450 boardgames. Open 6 Days (closed Tues) Phone 07 3325 5861 Shop 3, 57 Old Northern Road, Albany Creek.
www.slideways.com.au
www.conexiogamescafe.com.au
ADULTS AT KIDS PRICES
TWO FOR ONE
Adults play putt putt at kids prices! Valid when playing as a family. Phone 07 3252 0666
Jumping or laser tag. Get 2 for the price of 1. Walk in only. 544 Kessells Rd. Macgregor, Brisbane. 4019 Phone 13 SKYZ (13 7599)
www.victoriapark.com.au/golf/putt-putt/
www.skyzone.com.au
15% OFF
$5 OFF TICKET PRICE
15% off Riverlife Brisbane Receive 15% off the Riverlife school holiday program with the code BRISBANEKIDS. Kayaking, Rock climbing and other adventures!
www.riverlife.com.au
$5 off the ticket price for Ocean Life Education’s ‘Marine Biologist for a Day Program’
www.oceanlifeeducation.com.au
www.brisbanekids.com.au | 25
CONEXIO GAMES CAFE
SLIDEWAYS GO KARTING
Terms & Conditions Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 28/02/2019
Terms & Conditions Discount does not apply to individual products. Valid at Eagle Farm and Pimpama locations only. Not valid with any other offer. Valid until 31/01/2019
www.conexiogamescafe.com.au
www.slideways.com.au
SKYZONE
VICTORIA PARK
Terms & Conditions COUPON MUST BE PRINTED TO CLAIM Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Cannot be used for parties or functions. Jumping socks not included. Valid until 31/01/2019.
Terms & Conditions Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Not redeemable for cash. Valid to 31/03/2019
www.skyzone.com.au
www.victoriapark.com.au/golf/putt-putt/
OCEAN LIFE EDUCATION
RIVERLIFE BRISBANE
Terms & Conditions Voucher valid until 30 June 2019 ph: 07 5443 8545
Terms & Conditions Only valid for December 2018 & January 2019 School Holidays. Subject to availability.
www.oceanlifeeducation.com.au
www.riverlife.com.au/terms-conditions/
26 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
EXPERIENCES FOR A YEAR WORTH OF FUN!
Brisbane sport memberships
Theme Park passes
Arts and Sciences gifts
Zoos and Animal passes
Brisbane Broncos – Rugby League Brisbane Lions – AFL Brisbane Roar – Soccer Brisbane Bullets – Basketball Brisbane Reds – Rugby Union Cricket Australia Family Membership
Brisbane Arts Theatre tickets or membership Brisbane Astronomical Society membership QAGOMA membership Queensland Sciencentre passes Australian ballet or Brisbane City Youth Ballet tickets Tickets to a kids show at QUT Gardens or QPAC
Dreamworld and Whitewater World Warner Bros. Movie World Wet’n’Wild Gold Coast Aussie World Sea World Australian Outback Spectaular
Australia Zoo Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary Underwater World Wildlife HQ Trevena Glen Farm
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FAMILY FRIENDLY RESORTS WITH WATERSLIDES
North Star Holiday Resort
Family Friendly Resorts with Waterslides
Some of the best family holiday memories are created by the pool. There’s no fuss, no rush, parents can relax, and the kids have an absolute blast! It’s the best kind of holiday for entertaining the kids – they’ll have tonnes of fun and make new friends. Who knows, maybe you will make some new friends too.
North Star Holiday Resort
28 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
Featured Resort: North Star Holiday Resort, Hastings Point
www.northstar.com.au Kids won’t know where to start at North Star Holiday Resort! At Sammy’s Adventure Lagoon kids can enjoy non-stop fun running from slide to slide, squirting their friends with water cannons, racing down the side by side slides, and getting soaked under ‘The Big Dripper’. The 2018 addition of two 8.2m high tubular water ‘super slides’ that spiral their way more than 60m down to poolside landing platforms below only add to the supercharged excitement at North Star! Accommodation options – Powered camping sites, ensuite sites, small villas, apartments, large villas sleeping up to ten. Waterpark features – Tipping bucket, water cannons, slides, two new tubular ‘super slides’, 65 interactive features and more. Location – 1 Tweed Coast Rd, Hastings Point NSW
FAMILY FRIENDLY RESORTS WITH WATERSLIDES Oaks Oasis, Caloundra Accommodation options – Hotel rooms, self-contained apartments and villas. Waterpark features – Tipping bucket, numerous waterslides, fountains, splash zones and more. RACV Noosa Resort, Noosa Accommodation options – Hotel rooms, self-contained apartments and villas. Waterpark features – Heated splash pad, water sprayers, hoops, slides, lagoon style pool with sandy beach and shaded shallow section for toddlers. Rivershore Resort, Maroochydore Accommodation options – Unpowered sites, powered sites, glamping and luxury safari tents. Waterpark features – Heated pool, waterslides, sprayers and smaller heated pool for toddlers. Sea World Resort, Main Beach Accommodation options – Resort style rooms ranging from studios to premium family rooms. Waterpark features – Tipping bucket, jets, sprayers, hoops, water slides and interactive area designed for smaller family members.
Tallebudgera Creek Tourist Park, Palm Beach Accommodation options – Unpowered sites, powered sites, small villas and villas sleeping up to nine. Waterpark features – Two medium-sized slides, a shallow splash pad, and shaded shallow pool with water features, toadstools and frogs spurting water for toddlers. Big4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, Airlie Beach Accommodation options – Powered sites, villas, cottages and condos. Waterpark features – Tipping bucket, multistorey maze of slides, shallow water for toddlers and lagoon-style pool. Big4 Cania Gorge Holiday Park, Cania Gorge Accommodation options – Unpowered sites, powered sites and villas. Waterpark features – Splash park twin loop slide, small tipping buckets, water sprayers and slides.
Turtle Beach Resort, Mermaid Beach Accommodation options – Apartments ranging from one to four bedrooms. Waterpark features – Tipping bucket, side by side slides and two smaller slides into shallow water for toddlers.
Turtle Beach Resort
Oaks Oasis
BRIBIE ISLAND
Bribie Island
Incredible white beaches, clear waters and sunny Queensland days—there is a whole lot to love about Bribie Island. Things to do • Explore the beaches of Bribie with both calm and surf beaches on offer • BYO kayak, or hire one when you are there • Visit the Bribie Island Butterfly House (open on Wednesdays and Sundays) • Walk the Bicentennial Bushwalk (animals to be spotted include kangaroos, dolphins, wallabies, whales, kookaburras, dingos, emus, echidnas, lizards) • Hire a Jet ski and enjoy some watersports in the Pumicestone Passage • Visit the Bribie Island Seaside Museum • Hire a BBQ boat and head out for lunch and a fish • If you own a 4WD, buy a permit online and head out for a beach drive.
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• Grab some fish and chips and enjoy a sunset dinner by the ocean • On the way home stop by the Sandstone Point Hotel for some lunch. The kids will love the outdoor playground and petting zoo. • Finally, don’t forget the Abbey Museum which is also on your way home, around 15 minutes drive from the Bribie Island Bridge. Places to stay Bribie Island is the perfect seaside holiday destination for families seeking a location close to Brisbane. • There are three caravan parks on the island – Bellara Caravan Park, Bongaree Caravan Park, and Bribie Island Caravan Park Woorim. • Numerous other beachside accommodation options
BRIBIE ISLAND
Camping on Bribie Island
If you have a 4WD you can book a site at one of four beach camping spots, some just metres from the ocean. Facilities like toilets and showers vary depending on the campsite. Poverty Creek Camping Area – 14 numbered sites and one large group area in a bush setting.
Gallagher Point Camping Area – 6 campsites in a bush setting.
Ocean Beach Camping Area – 63 camping spots in a beach setting, many with ocean views.
Lime Pocket Camping Area – 6 numbered sites in a bush setting overlooking Pumicestone Passage.
Handy to know You need a 4WD and a permit to drive on the beaches on Bribie Island, and you need a permit to camp. Campfires are permitted within the fire rings provided (unless there is a fire ban). Visit the Queensland Parks and Forest website at https://www.npsr.qld.gov.au before you camp or drive on Bribie Island for up to date info.
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FAMILY FRIENDLY BEACHES
SUMMER
DAYS
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FAMILY FRIENDLY BEACHES Street’s Beach, South Bank In the heart of Brisbane city, Street’s Beach is an oasis on a hot day. Yes, it is a manmade beach, however we couldn’t go past it when listing the best beaches for families. Surrounded by tropical trees, you could almost forget you’re in the middle of the city. Patrolled (seasonally), Playground, BBQs Suttons Beach, Redcliffe With views out to Moreton Island, Suttons Beach is the perfect place to enjoy the gorgeous Queensland weather year-round. This patrolled beach has gentle waves that are just perfect for younger children, and there is a huge grassed area next to the beach with plenty of shady spots for picnics. Gentle waves, Patrolled (seasonally), Playground, BBQs Sylvan Beach, Bribie Island Located on the western side of Bribie Island, Sylvan Beach is a calm beach in the protected waters of the Pumicestone Passage. Splash around in the shallows or hire a boat or kayak to explore the area. You can bring your furry family members too, but just remember to keep their leash on. Gentle waves, Patrolled (seasonally), Playground, BBQs Wellington Point Wellington Point is a lovely seaside suburb with a fantastic recreation reserve out on the peninsula. The beach is perfect for toddlers and the shallow water means they can splash and play to their heart’s content. Gentle waves, Patrolled (seasonally), Playground, BBQs Tallebudgera Creek, Gold Coast Only steps away from a surf beach, it is known for its calm, kid-friendly water. It is located next to Burleigh Heads National Park and is popular for swimming, kayaking and fishing. Gentle waves, Patrolled (seasonally), Playground, BBQs Currimundi Lake, Sunshine Coast Connected to the patrolled surf beach where the creek meets the ocean. Calm and shallow water for the little ones with shady trees overhanging the beach. Gentle waves, Patrolled (seasonally), Playground, BBQs Photo by: Marek Slusarczyk Tallebudgera Beach
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UPCOMING SHOWS
The Gruffalo’s Child
Deadly 60 Down Under
The Illusionists: Direct from Broadway
The Sleeping Beauty
3 – 13 January @ Gardens Theatre Come along on a magical, musical adventure full of songs, audience involvement, laughs and fun, as the Julia Donaldson picture book ‘The Gruffalo’s Child’ is brought to life on stage to the delight of Brisbane Kids young and old.
9 – 15 January @ QPAC Described as “mind blowing” and “jaw dropping”, the critically acclaimed The Illusionists: Direct from Broadway brings to Brisbane seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth who will perform the most astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. 34 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
4 January @ QPAC Expect to be sitting on the edge of your seat as Steve Backshall takes to the stage in an exhilarating show featuring some of Australia’s deadliest animals live on stage and on the big screen, as well as lots of audience participation, on-stage fun and a Q&A.
16 – 19 January @ QPAC The Ballet Theatre of Queensland presents the timeless classic ‘The Sleeping Beauty’, featuring beautiful dancing, gorgeous sets and stunning costumes. It’s the perfect holiday outing for Brisbane Kids and ballet lovers of all ages.
UPCOMING SHOWS
The Day My Bum Went Psycho
The 91-Storey Treehouse
The Wizard of Oz
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
19 January – 9 March @ Brisbane Arts Theatre In a Queensland exclusive, follow the adventures of Zack, his runaway bum and some of the most dangerous bums in the world as Zack enlists the help of some bum hunters to find his missing bum in the heart of an explosive bumcano!
24 – 26 January @ Conservatorium Theatre See Dorothy, the Tinman, Scarecrow and the Lion, as the all-time classic story that has captured generation after generation of fans, The Wizard of OZ, is brought to life on stage by the talented dancers of the Brisbane City Youth Ballet.
23 – 27 January @ QPAC Get ready to laugh out loud as Terry and Andy’s 91-Storey Treehouse is brought to life in this amazing stage production that features a deserted desert island, a whirlpool, a giant spider and a red button that could possibly destroy the world!
9 February @ Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Enjoy a magical evening of music as the Queensland Symphony Orchestra performs the original score from the Harry Potter film live whilst the much-loved movie is played on a giant high definition screen in a must see for all Harry Potter fans. www.brisbanekids.com.au | 35
FREE WATERPARKS
Darlington Parklands, Yarrabilba
Free Waterparks in South-East Queensland
Queensland is full of free water play locations and places with water features that can entertain the family all day long. From council water parks to parks built around the concept of water, visiting these locations shouldn’t cost a lot of money. They will also get the kids outside, and cater to a range of ages and swimming abilities.
South Bank Lagoon & Aquativity, South Brisbane Located right in the middle of the city and surrounded by parklands, South Bank Lagoon is huge, with a man-made beach and an array of fun fountains as well as varying water depths. The adjacent Aquativity interactive water play area features a range of educational play elements that remind you of the natural features of the local area. Redcliffe Lagoon (AKA Settlement Cove), Redcliffe The beachside Redcliffe Lagoon on the northside of Brisbane features slides, fountains and a lovely ocean theme for Brisbane Kids to enjoy. It is a water park with heaps of shade, BBQ facilities, a playground and lots of room to swim with varying depths. It also features an accessible ramped entry to the pool.
Robelle Domain
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FREE WATERPARKS Robelle Domain and Orion Lagoon, Springfield Located in Springfield in Brisbane’s west, Robelle Domain is a huge parkland that includes loads of fountains and different water features (including a tipping bucket!) for summertime fun, not to mention numerous places to have a picnic. Just across from Robelle Domain is the epic Orion Lagoon, one of the largest public lagoons in the Southern Hemisphere. The Lagoon features a 600mm deep sculpture pool, a 50m lap swimming area, beach entry and pool depth of up to 1.5m in areas. Rocks Riverside Park, Seventeen Mile Rocks Rocks Riverside Park is more of a toddler paddling paradise than a pool. Located within expansive parkland, the waterpark features numerous splash pools, fountains and shaded areas. There is also a great playground, with BBQ facilities and lots of space for picnics nearby. Wynnum Water Park, Wynnum Wynnum Water Park is located in the breezy south seaside suburb of Wynnum. The park features a tipping bucket, spraying whale spouts to scramble over, a fantastic playground shaded by trees and also overlooks a calm beach that is perfect for toddlers and parents with bubs.
Aquativity, South Bank, by Martin Valgursky
Darlington Parklands, Yarrabilba Darlington Parklands is like no other park in Brisbane. Dubbed a ‘super park’, the area features an amazing free waterpark with unique water play activities and shallow pools for kids to splash and cool down in and is unlike anything we’ve seen in Brisbane. Broadwater Parklands, Southport Located right next to the beach in Southport, Broadwater Parklands is great fun for all ages. As well as a playground that includes a zipline and jumping pillow, the park features sprinklers, waterfalls and shallow splash pools. There is also a swimming enclosure on the beach with shade structures and, in the summer months, an inflatable aqua park for older kids and adults (paid entry). Be sure to also check out your local Council swimming pool! Many council pools often includes far more than just lap pools, with splash pads and waterparks included Tips for the best day out • Get there early to reserve your spot • Take lots of water to keep hydrated • Take snacks, water fun is hungry business! • Slip, slop and slap all day long • Supervise like there is no lifeguard
Settlement Cove
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EVENTS FOR TEENS
The Designers’ Guide: Easton Pearson Archive
Bumble Bee
Free council activities for teens
Nitro Circus - You Got This Stadium Tour
23 November – 22 April @ Museum of Brisbane A must-see for any teen interested in fashion, this exhibition features 200 garments to reveal the artistry, techniques and demi-couture practices that placed the label at the forefront of Australian fashion from 1989 to 2016.
School holidays everywhere Take advantage of council programs offering free and low cost fun from kayaking to abseiling as well as more creative activities across council libraries. The best places to head to are library websites, Active Holidays on the Moreton Bay Regional Council website, KRANK on the Logan City Website and Chill Out on the Brisbane City Council Website. 38 | www.brisbanekids.com.au
From 20 December @ Various Cinemas Watch the action-packed movie Bumblebee, based on the Transformer character of the same name, as he seeks refuge in a junkyard in a small California beach town but is discovered by Charlie, who quickly learns that this is no ordinary yellow Volkswagen.
23 February @ Suncorp Stadium Get excited as Nitro Circus heads back to Brisbane with the biggest and most extreme Nitro Circus live show to date, with new riders, new ramps and new contraptions that have previously be deemed impossible.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS - LONG RUNNING EVENTS Monkeys! A Primate Story
29 September – 28 January @ Queensland Museum Go bananas and learn all about primates at the new hands-on, immersive exhibition featuring over 60 spectacular taxidermy specimens and skeletons that range from the tiny mouse lemur to gorillas.
Santa World
10 November – 24 December @ Indooroopilly Shopping Centre Santa World is a Queenslandinspired wonderland of lights, animatronics, baubles, florals and a sprinkling of magic, with waving koalas and surprises around every corner.
Do you Bee-lieve?
16 November – 27 January @ Old Petrie Town Enter a magical Christmas wonderland filled with life size unicorns, elves, fairies and a dragon, in a one-of-a-kind exhibition kids will love.
The Christmas Festival 30 November – 16 December (Fri, Sat & Sun only) @ Brisbane Powerhouse Gather your family, friends and fur babies and enjoy a community twilight picnic, live music, food and market stalls, with lots of presents to choose from for all your Christmas shopping needs.
MoB Makers: Moki Bands
The Cat in the Hat
24 November – 22 January @ Brisbane Arts Theatre See one of the all-time Dr Seuss classic books brought to life as The Cat in the Hat not only enters the life of Sally and her brother, but completely turns their ordinary day upside down.
ATP9 Kids
23 November – 22 April @ Museum of Brisbane Inspired by Easton Pearson’s famous runway shows, design your own fashion headband using playful templates created by Brisbane Artist and long-time Easton Pearson collaborator Stephen Mok.
24 November – 28 April @ GOMA & Various Locations APT9 Kids is part of the 9th Asia Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art and features 8 interactive artworks, hands-on and multimedia activities, with displays at various Brisbane City Council Outdoor Galleries.
Playing with Light
The Gold Lotto City Hall Lights
1 December – 28 April @ Ipswich Art Gallery Step out of the darkness and into this hands-on, interactive exhibition where visitors can play with a laser light or a giant kaleidoscope, draw with infrared ‘paint’ and make a powerful telescope.
7 – 24 December @ Brisbane City Hall Watch in delight as Brisbane City Hall lights up in a magical light projection show that will entertain all ages with a playful Aussie Christmas tale that is guaranteed to get everyone into the Christmas spirit.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS - DECEMBER Free Santa Photos
10 November – 24 December @ Indooroopilly Shopping Centre Dress up in your best festive outfit and bring along your best smile as the whole family can get a photo with Santa. The best bit is it is totally free!
Greenbank Christmas Extravaganza
1 December @ Greenbank Fire Station Spend a wonderful night with your local firefighters, SES, ambulance and local emergency services crews while enjoying fireworks, Christmas lights and a visit to Santa’s photo cave.
Community Christmas Show
2 December @ Peter Lightfoot Oval Meet the camels and sheep that are part of the live nativity scene, as well as browse the market stalls, sing along to the carols, visit Santa on his sleigh and watch the fireworks.
Enchanted Garden
7 December @ Milton Stock up on gourmet Christmas produce, cakes and artisan gifts while you enjoy the delicious food, live music, wonderland Christmas decorations and kids’ activities.
7 – 19 December @ Roma Street Parkland Roam through the gardens on a warm summer night and enjoy the twinkling lights, charming Christmas decorations, food trucks, live music and glittering fairies.
Jingle All The Bay
The Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols
7 December @ Einbunpin Lagoon Wander through this street party of food trucks, Christmas stalls, kids rides, live music and Santa photos before watching the parade featuring Santa, fire trucks, police cars, lights, elves and fairies.
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1 – 22 December @ Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre See 40 never-seen-before LEGO® models, including a Dump Truck, a Harley Davidson and a crocodile, before heading into the interactive LEGO® zone.
Centenary Carols in the Park
2 December @ Indooroopilly Shopping Centre Join Indooroopilly Shopping Centre for a Christmas cracker of a concert, with carols, performances and a whole heap of Christmas fun, hosted by insta-famous mum Rosie Luik.
Christmas on Cribb
Brickman Awesome Brisbane
8 December @ Riverstage Have a Merry Little Christmas at Brisbane’s signature carols event that will be full of dancers, colour and fun, with some of Australia’s most talented singers performing Christmas carols live on stage.
Abbey Museum Open Day & Boutique Christmas Markets
8 December @ Abbey Museum Pick up some fantastic Christmas gifts for your loved ones at one of the unique market stalls and take advantage of the of the fun activities the Museum will be hosting for the kids!
CALENDAR OF EVENTS - DECEMBER A Little Family Time Christmas Entertainment
9 December @ Strathpine Centre Get your face painted and meet Elmo from Sesame Street, along with The Cheeky Elf and Mrs Claus, before getting creative decorating Christmas ornaments or making a balloon painting.
Scarborough Christmas Carols 9 December @ Scarborough Beach Park Fall in love with the Santa’s Village, take part in kids’ activities, meet Santa, browse the twilight markets, sing along to the carols and enjoy the dazzling fireworks finale.
The Lights of Christmas
13 – 16 December @ Gardens Theatre Watch as one of the most famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, along with other classic Eric Carle characters, come to life in a performance featuring over 75 magical puppets.
Christmas Gift Markets
14 – 23 December @ South Bank Parklands Pop in and say hello to Santa, who will be at the Christmas Gift Markets each day making sure that everyone is feeling merry and finding the perfect gift at one of three special market locations.
14 – 23 December @ South Bank Attend the Elf Academy and master all the acrobatic skills required to work alongside Santa, as well as make Christmas decorations and learn choreography from The Queensland Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’.
12 December @ Skygate Centre Celebrate the most magical time of the year in a healthy and active way, with festive Christmas songs, storytelling, craft and games that little Brisbane Kids will love.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
12 – 24 December @ St Stephen’s Cathedral Gather on the lawn at St Stephen’s to watch an extraordinary light and sound show, produced by the creators of Sydney’s Vivid Lightwalk, that will illuminate the Cathedral’s walls with a beautifully animated tale.
Holly Jolly Kids
Little Stars of Skygate Christmas Craft and Games
Christmas Wonderland
13 – 24 December @ Queens Park See the enchanting light display in Nerima Gardens that will sparkle nightly over 12 days, with unique live entertainment on stage on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
Christmas Parade presented by David Jones
14 – 23 December @ Queen Street Mall Celebrate the festive season at the amazing annual Christmas Parade, where elves, dancers, magical floats and a parade of hundreds spreading Christmas cheer will lead Santa through the Mall.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS - DECEMBER Twilight Christmas Markets
14 December @ Carseldine Markets Bring the whole family along to experience all that’s on offer, including wonderland decorations, festive foods, unique gifts, kids’ activities and entertainment, pop-up stores and more.
Logan Christmas Carols 15 December @ Griffith University Logan Campus Join the City of Logan to celebrate Christmas with a fun-filled night of entertainment, carols, kids’ rides, food trucks, free photos with Santa, fireworks, The Grinch children’s show and local choirs.
Christmas Cinema
14 – 23 December @ South Bank Parklands Relax on the River Quay lawn and watch a Christmas timeless classic, such as Miracle on 34th Street or the more modern Arthur Christmas, on the big screen after the conclusion of Carols by Twilight.
Christmas by Starlight
15 December @ Redlands Showgrounds Enjoy 3 hours of non-stop festive entertainment, including over 60 local and national artists, kids’ rides and activities, food trucks, drinks and merchandise stalls, plus a fireworks finale.
Summer Days at the Museum
15 December – 27 January @ The Workshops Rail Museum Run away with the circus these school holidays and try your hand at acrobatic Circus Camp, listen to tales of circus trains, dress up as circus animal, and see real life trains.
Pine Rivers Christmas Carols
16 December @ Pine Rivers Park Wander through the twilight markets and enjoy the free kids’ Christmas activities and workshops, carols, fireworks and meet Santa at Santa’s Village.
Sandstone Point Christmas Carnival
22 December @ Sandstone Point Hotel Enjoy live entertainment, Christmas Carols, food and drink, market stalls, kids’ rides, fireworks and, of course, a visit from Santa - all at one amazing location.
New Year’s Eve Firework Spectacular
31 December @ South Bank See in the New Year with Brisbane’s biggest fireworks display that will light up the Brisbane River and celebrate the start of 2019.
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Lakeside New Year’s Eve
31 December @ Victoria Point Lakeside Celebrate the start of 2019 with free entertainment and fun, including rides, live shows, kids’ activities, markets and fireworks at 9pm.
Mooloolaba New Year’s Eve
31 December @ Mooloolaba Be entertained from 4pm with live music, rides, kids’ activities, yummy food and spectacular fireworks shows at 8:30pm and midnight.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS - JANUARY The Gruffalo’s Child
Deadly 60 Down Under
3 – 13 January @ Gardens Theatre Come along on a magical, musical adventure full of songs, audience involvement, laughs and fun, as the Julia Donaldson picture book, ‘The Gruffalo’s Child’, is brought to life on stage.
4 January @ QPAC Expect to be sitting on the edge of your seat, as Steve Backshall takes to the stage in a show featuring some of Australia’s deadliest animals live, video footage, on-stage fun and a Q&A.
QUT Summer Holiday Program
Hatchimals School Holiday Fun
6 – 14 January @ The Cube Test drive The Cube’s new wind and water simulations and explore a range of hands-on activities and family fun, including drone coding workshops, science shows and virtual experiences.
7 – 11 January @ Strathpine Centre Escape the summer heat and take the kids along to Strathpine Centre, where they can have fun in the air conditioning and experience some very special Hatchimals school holiday entertainment.
Star Wars Day
12 January @ Toowoomba Library Precinct Dress up in your best Star Wars costume and take part in Star Wars Escape rooms, Galaxy slime making, Star Wars craft, face painting, Lightsaber battles, an appearance by the 501st Legion and more.
Back to School Health Checks
16 – 18 January @ Kelvin Grove QUT Get back-to-school-ready with free children’s health checks, including foot checks, vision screening, nutrition assessments, dietary advice, and education and development assessments.
The Illusionists: Direct From Broadway
9 – 15 January @ QPAC See the mind-blowing and critically acclaimed ‘The Illusionists: Direct From Broadway’, when the show heads to Brisbane with seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth.
Kids Dig It! Stone Age Family Fun
14 – 18 January @ The Abbey Museum Step back in time and get hands-on, with mini archaeological digs, archery, a survival challenge, Stone Age bling, cave art and much more Stone Age fun!
The Sleeping Beauty
16 – 19 January @ QPAC The Ballet Theatre of Queensland presents ‘The Sleeping Beauty’, featuring beautiful dancing, gorgeous sets and stunning costumes that make this the perfect holiday outing for Brisbane Kids.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS - JANUARY
Pongal Festival 2019
19 January @ Robelle Domain Parklands Attend the annual celebration of the Tamil culture, featuring Tamil Arts, face painting, Kabaddi, a magic show, multicultural cuisine and much more.
Lifeline Bookfest
19 – 27 January @ Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Grab a bargain at Queensland’s largest second-hand book sale, featuring 4km of tables with millions of books, magazines, puzzles, DVD’s, CD’s, board games and much more.
22 January @ Osprey House Environmental Centre Designed for children with a curiosity about the marine environment and animals, this hands-on workshop allows kids to get up close and personal with sharks, turtles, sea stars and more.
23 – 27 January @ QPAC Laugh out loud as Terry and Andy’s 91-Storey Treehouse is brought to life in this amazing stage production with a deserted desert island, a giant spider and a red button that could destroy the world!
23 January @ The Workshops Rail Museum The Museum will turn the sound down and create an engaging and fun space that kids with sensory processing difficulties can share a day at the museum with their family.
The Wizard of Oz
24 - 26 January @ Conservatorium Theatre See Dorothy, the Tinman, Scarecrow, the Lion and the munchkins as ‘The Wizard of OZ’ is brought to life on stage by the talented dancers at the Brisbane City Youth Ballet.
Australia Day in Redcliffe
26 January @ Suttons Beach Celebrate Australia day on the beach with a fun afternoon of Aussie games, including cricket, sack races and volleybaall, as well as live music, market stalls, a lamington eating competition and fireworks.
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19 January – 9 March @ Brisbane Arts Theatre Follow the adventures of Zack, his runaway bum, and some of the most dangerous bums in the world as Zack enlists the help of some bum hunters to find his missing bum in the heart of an explosive bumcano!
Summer Days at the Museum: Sensory Friendly Day
Marine Biologist for a Day
The 91-Storey Treehouse
The Day My Bum Went Psycho
Summer Family Walk
26 January @ Karawatha Forest Learn about the local flora and fauna on a guided walk along the 1.2km Ironbark Circuit and, on return, enjoy all that’s on offer at the parkland and the Discovery Centre.
Australia Day on Bribie Island
26 January @ Brennan Park Join in the celebrations at the gorgeous Brennan Park for an easy-going, Aussie time, including beach themed activities and sports, live music, market stalls and fireworks.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS - FEBRUARY Manly Movies in the Park: The Greatest Showman
2 February @ Little Bayside Park Unwind on a Saturday evening and enjoy watching the amazing musical hit ‘The Greatest Showman’ on your blanket or chairs under the stars at Little Bayside Park.
Storytime in the Gardens
5 February @ Mt Coot-tha Library Sit on the Fig Tree Lawn in the beautiful Brisbane Botanic Gardens and experience the magic of storytime at an interactive session that includes stories and songs for little Brisbane Kids.
BrisAsia Festival
9 February – 3 March @ various Brisbane locations Expect to see dancing dragons, lanterns, festivals of colour and delicious food over 3 weeks as the BrisAsia Festival allows families to experience Brisbane’s diverse Asian communities.
Chinchilla Melon Festival
14 – 17 February @ Chinchilla Attend a festival dedicated to the watermelon in Chinchilla! Expect Melon Big Bash Cricket, melon markets, a street parade, melon rodeo, melon storytelling, melon chef and lots more melons!
Nitro Circus - You Got This Stadium Tour
23 February @ Suncorp Stadium Get excited as Nitro Circus heads back to Brisbane in the biggest and most extreme Nitro Circus live show to date with new riders, new ramps and new contraptions.
Sensory Movie: Ralph Breaks the Internet
3 February @ various Event Cinemas Designed just for kids with sensory needs and their families, enjoy this summer’s biggest movie, Ralph Breaks the Internet, with the lights dimmed, the volume adjusted and no judgement.
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
9 February @ Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Enjoy a magical evening of music as the QSO performs the original score from Harry Potter film live while the much-loved movie is played on a giant HD screen.
Earth Frequency Festival
15 - 18 February @ Peaks Crossing Enjoy an amazing mixture of live and electronic music, performance and visionary art, workshops and lectures, a family and kids’ space, a fantastic food and markets area and a positive community vibe.
BrisAsia Festival Markets
23 February @ Mt Gravatt Showgrounds Experience an Asian-inspired arts and handicraft marketplace with stage performances, workshops, fashion shows and a film screening in the evening, as part of the BrisAsia Festival celebrations.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS - PLAN AHEAD The BFG
16 March – 1 June @ Brisbane Arts Theatre Roald Dahl’s classic book about the 24-foot Big Friendly Giant comes to life on stage in the BFG where Sophie and the BFG pair up to save the children from the child-eating giants.
Blue Planet II - Live in Concert
11 March @ Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Experience the natural wonders of our blue planet on a 75 square meter HD LED screen, accompanied by narrator Joanna Lumley and the QSO.
Buddha Birth Day Festival
3 – 5 May @ South Bank Head along to the annual Buddha Birth Day Festival in the world and enjoy dragon boat racing, mediation, Tai Chi, lion dancing, amazing food, cultural customs and activities, lanterns and more.
Goomeri Pumpkin Festival
26 May @ Goomeri Take a drive to Goomeri to experience novelty pumpkin competitions, a street parade, live entertainment, demonstrations, displays and street markets.
School of Rock
From 12 July @ QPAC Based on the hit film, this hilarious new musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school.
Surfers Paradise Sea Fire
1 June @ Surfers Paradise Australia’s only international fireworks competition returns with a night of hypnotic performances and thrilling fireworks by the world’s leading pyrotechnic designers.
World Science Festival Brisbane
20 – 24 March @ Various Brisbane Locations Over 5 days, experience the wonderful world of science with awesome events such as live turtle hatchings, workshops, a Street Science event, lectures, talks, Dr Karl Kruszelnicki and more.
Paniyiri Greek Festival
18 & 19 May @ Musgrave Park Indulge in honey puffs, souvlaki, moussaka and haloumi and enjoy Brisbane’s biggest Greek celebration.
Queensland Ballet’s The Little Green Road to Fairyland
11 – 21 July @ QPAC Set in the Australian bush, The Little Green Road to Fairyland takes the audience on a charming journey full of colourful sets, gorgeous dancing and costumes that will delight all ages.
The Nutcracker
13 – 21 December @ QPAC See beautiful dancing, gorgeous sets and stunning costumes as the Queensland Ballet performs The Nutcracker, a ballet that has become a Brisbane Christmas tradition for many Brisbane families.
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