FREE MAGAZINE 24th Edition Summer Fun For Brisbane Families www.brisbanekids.com.au
SUMMER 2021/22
Iceworld
Rock Pools and Creeks
Lego Trail
Christmas and Holiday events
WELCOME
Brisbane Kids inspires families to grow, explore and make memories in the beautiful city of Brisbane and beyond. Follow us
Bunya Riverside
THE BRISBANE KIDS PEOPLE Writers Meaghan Brightwell
Social and Website Editors
Lauren Bride
Brooke Powell
Cath Johnsen
Leigh Child
Paula Johnson
Megan Westbury
Melanie Byers
Ngaire Stirling
Louise Barber
Brisbane Kids is a free magazine published quarterly and circulated through digital
Designers
Advertising Enquiries
Juno Creative
print@brisbanekids.com.au
This magazine is copyright and cannot be reproduced without permission.
Website www.brisbanekids.com.au
channels to families. The dates and times listed are accurate at the time of print. No responsibility is taken for errors, omissions, cancellations or changes. Brisbane Kids Pty Ltd ABN 34456380201 Cover Credit: Cath Johnsen, Jellurgal Walkabout Tour, Burleigh Heads National Park, page 36
CONTENTS
David Fleay Wildlife Park
Demeio Park Marsden
Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Van Gogh Alive
FE ATURED 6-9
Get Into The Christmas Spirit
12-15 Learn To Ride Parks Lego Trail
REGULARS 10-11
Unusual Animal Experiences
24-26 Local Coupons 27
Playgrounds
20-23 Rock Pools And Creeks
28-29
Summer Movies
30-31 Free Things On The Sunshine Coast
40-41
Upcoming Shows
16-18
32-33
Free Things On The Gold Coast
34-35 David Fleay Wildlife Park 36-37
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
38
Christmas Lights
39
Christmas Markets
42-47 Must See Events 48-49 Long Running Events 50-51
Plan Ahead Events
www.brisbanekids.com.au
3
Reignite your creativity this summer! Holiday short courses for grades 3–12: → Acting → Audition Preparation → Drama → Improvisation → TV Presenting ... and more! Starting from Mon 10 Jan 2022 at St. Laurence’s College, Brisbane! Visit nida.edu.au/summer
BUILT for SPEED 3 December 2021 – 30 January 2022
7 per person 25 Family pass (4 people) Kids under 2 free
$ $
IPSWICH ART GALLERY d’Arcy Doyle Place, Nicholas Street, IPSWICH Visit ipswichartgallery.qld.gov.au for program details
GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
Iceworld
If you’re not feeling super festive, or if you just want to add some extra cheer this year, there is no better way to get into the Christmas spirit than to try one of our ideas below!
B U N D L E U P A N D G O I C E S K AT I N G AT I C E W O R L D Picture yourself celebrating a northern hemisphere Christmas this year and enjoy some ice skating at Iceworld! With a cool internal temperature of 10˚C, your whole family can don their Christmas best to get into the festive spirit while enjoying an activity not often associated with sunny Queensland. Iceworld has two Olympic-sized ice rinks (located at Boondall and Acacia Ridge), both featuring fully stocked cafes serving everything from hot food to barista-quality coffee so you and the kids can take a break from the ice with a toasty treat. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL at https://www.iceworld.com.au/
6
www.brisbanekids.com.au
GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
G E T A P H OTO W I T H S A N TA
SEE THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Whether you go for an annual photo or just want to let the big guy in red know what’s top of your wish list, a visit to Santa is top of many a Christmas checklist. To find Santa in Brisbane, start with our list that also includes some free options. Click the link below for the list.
Even if you don’t string up lights yourself, seeing the displays of your neighbours or even driving to some of the many impressive displays around Brisbane is a wonderful way to spend a summer evening (or several). Get the Christmas Lights List by clicking the link below.
SEE LIST
SEE LIST
C ATC H A C H R I ST M A SSY S H O W AT Q PA C A Christmas Carol, the classic Charles Dickens tale, is returning to QPAC for the festive season! Featuring live music, yule-tide carolling, lavish costumes and, of course, snow, it is a large-scale, visual feast to set your spirits soaring. Click the link below to book now. BOOK NOW
A Christmas Carol
BROWSE A CHRISTMAS MARKET Christmas markets are happening all over the city—the perfect place to find unique and handmade gifts, festive treats and many also have rides, Santa visits and other fun things happening! Click the link below for the list.
Southbank Christmas Markets
SEE LIST
VISIT SOME REAL DEER Located near Samford Village, Lyell Deer Sanctuary has been a refuge for deer for more than 30 years. Challenge your Brisbane Kids to pick which deer might be helping Santa this year! FIND OUT MORE
Lyell Deer Sanctuary
GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
GO TO THE CITY The Christmas Tree in King George Square is always an impressive sight! At 22m high, it’s the centrepiece of Brisbane City’s decorations. From 10th to 24th December, City Hall will also be the backdrop for a nightly projected light display.
Story Bridge
FIND OUT MORE
P L AY C H R I S T M A S PUTT PUTT Until 31 December, families can have a jolly good time at Victoria Park’s magically decorated 18 hole course. It’ll be love at ‘frost’ sight with holes including Frosty’s Fairway, Gingerbread Village, Elf City and Santa’s Runway.
Victoria Park
HEAD TO A C H R I S T M A S FA R M Choose your own Christmas tree to take home, or just visit to soak up the scent of pine needles and the festive atmosphere. The Granite Belt Christmas Farm’s main harvest weekend is 30th November and 1st December, but you can visit any day of the year!
BOOK NOW
WAT C H A C H R I ST M A S M OV I E Are you into Elf, or Home Alone? Or is The Grinch or The Polar Express more your thing? Crank the fans or the AC and escape the Brisbane heat with a festive movie to get you in the Christmas spirit! Check out our must watch list to get you started. SEE LIST
BOOK NOW
VISIT A CHRISTMAS SHOP Brisbane has several Christmas shops, including the Christmas Shack (Virginia and Slacks Creek), Christmas Alight (Everton Hills) and Christmas Decorations Brisbane (Woolloongabba). TIP: Set a budget or a specific type of decoration you’re after before you head in.
Christmas Shack
GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT
COMMUNITY CHRISTMA S C AROL S
PUT UP CHRISTMAS LIGHTS
Carols are synonymous with Christmas and, whether you have the one CD on repeat or a curated playlist, there’s no better way to get into the Christmas spirit! Check out our list of Christmas carol events in Brisbane to join the community fun.
Christmas lights are one of our favourite ways to decorate for the festive season. They don’t take up much space and you can go as minimal or over the top as you like, even including energy efficient solar lights they’re all beautiful!
SEE LIST
GET BAKING With so many delicious Christmas treats to enjoy, from gingerbread and sugar biscuits to fruitcake, the scent of Christmas goodies baking in the oven is sure to invoke memories of Christmases past (and they make great gifts too!).
UNUSUAL ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
S E E T H E T U RT L E S AT M O N R E P O S Every summer, visitors to the Bundaberg area can witness the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern Australian mainland as they make their annual pilgrimage to nest on the beach. The Mon Repos Conservation Park is strategically placed and deemed the most significant location for Loggerhead turtle nesting in the South Pacific Ocean region. To protect the nesting turtles and their hatchlings, the beach at Mon Repos is closed from mid-October to the end of April. During this time, ranger-guided night-time turtle encounter tours are available through the Mon Repos Turtle Centre. The best time to visit to watch the female turtles lay their eggs after dark is from mid-November to February, where each turtle lays roughly 130 eggs per clutch and up to four clutches each season. From mid-January till late March, you can also witness the spectacle of the birth of the tiny hatchlings who begin to leave their nests and start their life in the sea. Mon Repos Turtle Centre, 141 Mon Repos Road, Mon Repos QLD Bookings required at https://parks.des.qld.gov.au/parks/mon-repos/ about#bookings TIP: Get in early, this experience is always in high demand.
O B S E RV E T H E O S P R E Y C H I C K S Located at Griffin on Brisbane’s northside, Osprey House is a true environmental treasure trove of information and hands-on displays set amongst the trees and mangroves and staffed by enthusiastic volunteers. A visit to Osprey House can see your little (and big) kids bird watching, walking along the boardwalks, learning about the environment and enjoying a picnic in the purpose built seating areas. You can even observe the osprey chicks in their nest up high on the ‘Osprey Pole’, with live streaming video during daylight hours. Housed in a timber structure to blend in with its natural surroundings, the building and boardwalks at Osprey House are easily accessible by wheelchairs and prams and are mostly shaded, making it a perfect destination at any time of the year. Osprey House, Dohles Rocks Road, Griffin QLD Plan your visit at https://www.ospreyhouse.asn.au/
UNUSUAL ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
S P O T K A N G A R O O S I N T H E PA R K Not only does Spring Mountain Reserve in Greenbank have a fantastic large playground area, fitness equipment, shaded picnic tables and a ninjastyle obstacle course, but the local kangaroos rate it as one of their favourite places to visit too! Most afternoons you can see several kangaroos hanging out on the grassy open space, not far from the playground itself. Surrounded by farms and forest and situated beside a waterway, Spring Mountain Reserve also features over 2.5km of fantastic bike paths to explore; perfect for a family picnic or adventure! Spring Mountain Reserve, Tully Connection Road, Greenbank QLD Read our detailed park review at https://www.brisbanekids.com.au/springmountain-reserve/ TIP: Don’t get too close! These kangaroos are wild and do not like being approached.
B R E A K FA S T W I T H T H E KO A L A S On Saturdays and Sundays, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary serves up an extra-special treat with their ‘Breakfast With The Koalas’ experience. Pre-booked guests enter the park a little earlier than usual and also get to enjoy a magical breakfast with an Aussie icon! The experience includes a gourmet breakfast (choosing from a set menu of five options) within the sanctuary’s Koala Habitat, where you will be surrounded by koalas and have the opportunity to learn more from their keepers. Koala cuddles are also on the menu, with a souvenir photo included to remember this special morning. Ticket prices include admission to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary for the day and start at $69 per person. Children aged 13 years and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, 27 Millers Drive, Currumbin QLD Available on weekends. Bookings essential at https://currumbinsanctuary. com.au/what-to-see-and-do/encounters/koala-breakfast TIP: If you can’t make it to Currumbin for the early start, you might like to try Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s ‘Grazy Arvo With The Koalas’ instead.
Sat 5 Mar 2022 1.30pm & 7.30pm Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre
QSO.COM.AU/HP5 WIZARDING WORLD and all related trademarks, characters, names, and indicia are © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights © JKR. (s21)
www.brisbanekids.com.au
11
L E A R N T O R I D E PA R K S
Demeio Park
Teaching children to ride a bike can be stressful and time consuming, but if you couple it with awesome playgrounds and fun tracks, it can also be enjoyable!
B R A D B U RY PA R K , K E D R O N Bradbury Park is home to a really cool riding track, with part of the concrete pathway containing obstacles and the other section more suited to those just learning to control their wheels. Sports courts, a magical forest and playgrounds are also fun to visit at Bradbury Park. Location: 91 Kitchener Road in Kedron READ OUR REVIEW
Bradbury Park
K A L I N G A PA R K , K A L I N G A Learn how to ride in this leafy inner north Brisbane park. The roundabout is a unique feature, as is the signage on the paths. Kalinga Park also includes an incredible fort style playground, toilets, BBQs and an extensive riding track for more experienced riders. Location: Bertha Street in Kalinga (near Clayfield) Kalinga Park
12
www.brisbanekids.com.au
READ OUR REVIEW
L E A R N T O R I D E PA R K S
K I D S PA C E , C H E R M S I D E The designated bike track at Kidspace features realistic road signs and markings, allowing users to practice their stopping, roundabouts and speed bumps. The surrounding area boasts a large fort playground, toilets, plenty of grassed areas, BBQs and picnic facilities. Location: Cnr of Murphy & Newman Roads in Chermside Kidspace
READ OUR REVIEW
C R E S T M E A D PA R K , C R E S T M E A D The mini-traffic track at Crestmead Park is flat and mirrors realistic traffic situations, with divided roads and road signs, making it ideal for beginners. There is also a large skatepark nearby for those who have four wheels and more confidence. Location: Cnr of Gimlet Street & Royena Court in Crestmead READ OUR REVIEW
D E M E I O PA R K , M A R S D E N The cycle park at Demeio Park is designed to look and feel like a real road, featuring 220 metres of pathway, a roundabout, road signs and mini versions of the Gateway Bridge & Logan River’s iconic Red Bridge. Kids will also love the 9.4m tower, tube slide and flying fox in the playground. Location: 116-124 Demeio Road in Marsden Demeio Park
READ OUR REVIEW
L E A R N T O R I D E PA R K S
G R A N D E PA R K , SPRINGFIELD LAKES Little ones learning to ride will love the road markings, traffic lights, stop signs and other signage at Grande Park. There are also some lovely recreational pathways for anyone wishing to extend their journey around the area. A fenced playground, toilets and BBQ facilities are also within the park. Location: 40 Grande Avenue in Springfield Lakes Grande Park READ OUR REVIEW
PA L L A R A D I S T R I C T PA R K , PA L L A R A Pallara District Park features a 190m bike track complete with speed humps, signage and a bridge. A one-stop ‘fix it’ shop is also on hand, containing tools needed to fix bikes including a tyre pump. The park also features a fantastic playground, fitness area and toilets. Location: Cnr of Gooderham & Brookbent Roads in Pallara Pallara District Park READ OUR REVIEW
T I M B E R L A N D PA R K , ALGESTER The traffic track at Timberland Park is huge and is the perfect place for those learning to ride. Kids can enjoy negotiating the mini roads whilst also learning road rules from the street signs they come across. Location: Crnr of Basswood & Satinash Streets in Algester Timberland Park
READ OUR REVIEW
M E L R O S E PA R K , WOOLOOWIN Melrose Park offers a shady and relatively flat mini traffic course, complete with lanes and road signs. A playground, skatepark, sports courts and lots of lovely green space surround the park, making it an ideal spot for an afternoon of fun. Location: Cnr of Rose & Roseleigh Streets in Wooloowin Melrose Park READ OUR REVIEW
14
www.brisbanekids.com.au
L E A R N T O R I D E PA R K S
SYMPHONY CRESCENT PA R K , B U R P E N G A RY Symphony Crescent Park features a mini traffic track to help teach little ones road rules while they practise their riding skills. The park also has a bright playground, toilets, BBQs and plenty of other paths and grassed areas for the riders wanting to branch out. Location: 40 Symphony Crescent in Burpengary READ OUR REVIEW
Symphony Crescent Park
Jazz
Tap
Musical Theatre
Song & Dance Ballet Acro
07 3205 7717
34 Kremzow Road, Brendale
www.conroydance.com.au
LEGO TRAIL
BRICKS n FUN
Embarking on this awesome LEGO trail throughout Brisbane will allow LEGO lovers to browse amazing masterpieces, add to their own personal LEGO collection, learn new skills and meet like-minded LEGO fanatics.
BRICKMAN® WONDERS OF THE WORLD EXHIBITION Prepare to be wowed when you enter the Brickman ® Wonders of the World exhibition at the Queensland Museum, with more than 50 massive LEGO masterpieces on display. The monuments, built by Ryan ‘Brickman’ McNaught, include the Taj Mahal, the Empire State Building, the Great Wall of China and even the Great Barrier Reef. Visitors can even flex their creative muscle by building their own LEGO creation. Tickets are required. Location: Touring Exhibition Gallery, Level 3, Queensland Museum, South Brisbane Hours: Open daily from 9:30am to 4pm (until 30 Jan 2022)
BRICK RESALES BrickResales now has a permanent, 640sqm showroom in Coopers Plains where they sell pre-loved LEGO to the public. With more than two tonnes of LEGO pieces on offer, you are bound to find that special piece you are looking for. You can even sell your unwanted LEGO, giving it a new lease of life. The friendly staff at BrickResales are passionate about creating a supportive LEGO community and are only too happy to chat about all things LEGO. Location: Building 1B/836 Boundary Road, Coopers Plains Hours: Open Thursday to Monday from 8am to 3pm 16
www.brisbanekids.com.au
BrickResales
LEGO TRAIL
COFFEE N BRICKS Combine snack time with LEGO time when you visit the unique and locally-run Coffee n Bricks café in Wynnum. Visitors can purchase a block of building time and create their chosen masterpiece, with a large range of Duplo, LEGO Creator, LEGO City and more to choose from. Browse the store and see what others have created, chat to the LEGO-loving staff, or perhaps purchase a LEGO set to take home. Location: 1/44 Bay Terrace, Wynnum Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 11am to 8pm and Sunday from 1pm to 8pm
Coffee n Bricks
BRICKS N FUN Pop in to BRICKS n FUN in Capalaba to browse their range of LEGO sets, LEGO pieces and LEGO merchandise. There is also a large LEGO display room on site, which features an impressive train layout complete with moving trains and lights, as well as a huge collection of LEGO models, including fire engines, LEGO cities and a theme park. For a small entry fee, you can check out the display on Saturdays or during school holidays (bookings required). Location: 1 Finucane Road, Capalaba BRICKS n FUN
Hours: Open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 4pm (Display room open Saturdays from 10am to 3pm and during school holidays)
L EG O C E RT I F I E D STO R E - C H E R M S I D E Enjoy some LEGO retail therapy when you visit Brisbane’s first certified LEGO store at Westfield Chermside. The store is full of the latest LEGO, including exclusive and hard-to-find sets. While you are there, check out the build-a-minifigure station and brick engraving service, the play tables and massive LEGO mosaic of the Story Bridge, or measure how tall you are in LEGO bricks against the special ruler on the wall. Location: Shop/380A, Westfield Chermside, Gympie Road, Chermside Hours: Open weekdays from 10am to 5:30pm (9pm on Thursdays) and weekends from 10am to 5pm
BRISBANE CITY HALL Visit the foyer of Brisbane’s City Hall to see our city’s historic landmark represented in LEGO bricks. Commissioned to commemorate City Hall’s 100th birthday in 2020, Brick Builder Ben Craig worked tirelessly to piece together the almost 2m x 2m model of City Hall, consisting of more than 40,000 bricks. It must be seen to be believed! Location: Brisbane City Hall, King George Square, Brisbane City Hours: Open weekdays from 8am to 5pm and weekends from 9am to 5pm
Brisbane City Hall www.brisbanekids.com.au
17
LEGO TRAIL
OTHER LEGO PL ACES TO VISIT AROUND BRISBANE LEGO Shop - Brisbane Airport Fill in time waiting at the airport by browsing the LEGO Shop at the Domestic Terminal, perhaps picking up a little set to take on holiday with you.
Bricks 4 Kidz Bricks 4 Kidz specialises in themed LEGO workshops throughout Brisbane, including after-school and holiday workshops.
LEGO Engineers Club at Moreton Bay Region Libraries Partake in this cool after-school LEGO Engineers Club while making friends and building awesome LEGO creations.
Lego Store
The Brick Zone in Maleny Browse the massive display of LEGO (specialising in Harry Potter and Star Wars) at this privately-owned LEGO collection in Maleny.
LEGO Certified Store - Dreamworld and Robina Town Centre These LEGO stores stock a large range of LEGO sets and merchandise, as well as providing the usual LEGO services.
Lego Store
queenslandballet.com.au
School Holiday PERFORMANCES, TRAINING, YOUTH WORKSHOPS & EXPERIENCES
THE NUTCRACKER
TEEN UNITE
MINI DANCE CAMP
CHRISTMAS PARTY
SUMMER SCHOOLS
16-23 DEC LYRIC THEATRE, QPAC
14-16 DEC USC, MORETON BAY
16-17 DEC WEST END
18 DEC QPAC ROOFTOP
DEC & JAN KELVIN GROVE
3-DAY PROGRAM OF DANCE & MENTORSHIP FOR 13-17 YEAR OLDS
FESTIVE BALLET FUN FOR 6-12 YEAR OLDS
WELCOMING YOU TO JOIN US FOR THIS EPIC NUTCRACKER PARTY
TRAIN AT OUR WORLD-CLASS ACADEMY
ON SALE NOW
7.5-18 YEAR OLDS
Help them share their best smile. General Dentistry, Paediatric dentistry, braces, implants, Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry
call now 3632
8100
North Brisbane Dental Clinic 18 Kedron Park Road Wooloowin, QLD 4030 www.northbrisbanedental.com.au www.brisbanekids.com.au
19
RO CK PO OL S AND CREEKS
Rock Pools of Cedar Creek in Thunderbird Park
We are so lucky to have swimming creeks in Brisbane to enjoy for free on a hot summer’s day. Remember that all Brisbane creeks are only as good as the rain that came before them. NOTE: Very recent or heavy rain can also create changes in conditions—from debris in the water to fast running falls. Always use caution in and around water.
CEDAR CREEK (SAMFORD) The entire drive up to Cedar Creek offers roadside swimming opportunities but the main places to swim are Andy Williams Park and Cedar Creek rock pools and falls. In some areas it is limited to wading and kneedeep levels of water and then in other places you will find deeper pools.
Fact Sheet • There are no facilities at the main Cedar Creek
rock pools and Falls
• Andy Williams Park features toilets and electric BBQs • Limited parking at Andy Williams Park and very
limited parking at the falls end
Location Cedar Creek, Samford
Cedar Creek Rock Pools is located on Cedar Creek Road in Samford. Read more about Cedar Creek and Andy Williams Park
20
www.brisbanekids.com.au
RO CK PO OL S AND CREEKS
B U N YA R I V E R S I D E R E S E RV E Bunya Riverside Reserve (AKA Bunya Crossing) is nestled behind an acreage community on Brisbane’s northside and its waters are replenished via the rains that come from Mount Glorious. This is a very popular swimming hole and offers an inland beach-style set-up, with plenty of trees for a picnic. Visit first thing in the morning and you might spot a platypus!
Fact Sheet • Toilets • Electric BBQs • Onsite parking (limited spaces) • Shade • Dogs on lead welcome • Walking tracks • Gates opened on sunrise, closed at sunset
Location Bunya Riverside Reserve is located on Dugandan Road in Bunya. Read more about Bunya Riverside
Bunya Riverside, Bunya
CEDAR CREEK ( TA M B O R I N E M O U N TA I N )
CURRUMBIN CREEK & RO CK P O OL S
Cedar Creek in Tamborine Mountain is as popular as it is beautiful. There is limited parking, so arrive early and pack some lunch for the picturesque picnic area that sits at the beginning of the falls walk. It will take about 15 minutes to walk to the rock pools and falls and it is not particularly pram friendly, though still an easy walk.
The Currumbin Rock Pools, just 12km up the valley from Currumbin Beach on the Gold Coast, are the perfect place to escape the heat when the beach is too hot. Whether you are seeking deep pools or shallow play areas, you will find it at Currumbin Creek.
Fact Sheet • Toilets in the picnic grounds at the beginning of the walk • Picnic spots and lots of shade • Carpark (limited spaces) • Viewing platform (5 min walk) that is wheelchair and
pram accessible
• Open between 1 October and 31 March from 6am to
8pm and between 1 April and 30 September from 6am to 6pm.
Location Cedar Creek Falls & Rock Pools are located in Tamborine National Park, off Cedar Creek Falls Road, in Cedar Creek. Read more about Cedar Creek Tamborine Mountain
Fact Sheet • Toilets • Picnic areas • Onsite parking • Cafe across the road
Location Currumbin Creek & Rock Pools are located on Currumbin Creek Road in Currumbin. Read more about Currumbin Creek and Rock Pools
RO CK PO OL S AND CREEKS
E N O G G E R A R E S E RVO I R Located in the bushy surrounds of D’Aguilar National Park, Enoggera Reservoir is a nice, open swimming hole for Brisbane families. It is deep enough and large enough to kayak in and you can hire equipment there to make the most of the experience.
Fact Sheet • Toilets and cafe available nearby, up at the
Walkabout Creek Discovery Centre
• Onsite parking • Walkabout Creek Adventures offer segway, kayak,
stand up paddleboards and mountain bikes for hire
• Open daily from 6am to 6pm
Location Enoggera Reservoir is located at 60 Mount Nebo Road in The Gap. Read more about Enoggera Reservoir
Enoggera Reservoir
KO N D A L I L L A FA L L S Kondalilla National Park is part of the traditional lands of the Gubbi Gubbi people and Kondalilla is an Aboriginal word meaning ‘rushing waters’, which is exactly what you can expect from the spectacular falls during the summer wet season.
Fact Sheet • Toilets • Picnic tables and electric BBQs • Onsite parking • Bring insect repellent • BYO drinking water • No pets, as this is a National Park • Open daylight hours only
Location Kondalilla Falls
22
www.brisbanekids.com.au
Kondalilla Falls is located on Kondalilla Falls Road in Montville. Read more about Kondalilla Falls
RO CK PO OL S AND CREEKS
S AVAG E S C RO S S I N G
YOUNGS CROSSING
Savages Crossing is downstream from Wivenhoe Dam, around 5 minutes from the town of Fernvale, and is situated on the upper reaches of the Brisbane River. This is a popular spot for a variety of fresh water activities and you’ll find people fishing, kayaking and swimming here.
Close to Old Petrie Town, Youngs Crossing is an expansive swimming hole in the Moreton Bay Region. Bring your kayaks and inflatables and enjoy some respite from the heat. There’s a small carpark on-site and toilet facilities. This is also a popular fishing spot, with many freshwater species calling the North Pine River home.
Fact Sheet • Roadside toilets • Parking • Swimming spot
Fact Sheet • Toilets • Picnic area
• Water sports
• Onsite parking
• Fishing
Location
Location
Youngs Crossing is located on Youngs Crossing Road in Petrie
Savages Crossing is located on Banks Creek Road in Fernvale.
Read more about Youngs Crossing
Read more about Savages Crossing
WA P PA FA L L S Wappa Falls’ range of rock pools and waterfalls are popular spots for a swim. If there has been recent rainfall, the falls might not be great for swimming but can be an impressive sight. Jack Harrison Park at Wappa Dam offers an extensive open picnic area if you fancy a picnic lunch after your swim (swimming is not permitted in the actual Wappa Dam).
Fact Sheet • Nearby toilets (Wappa Dam) • Picnic areas (Wappa Dam) • Playground (Wappa Dam) • Onsite parking
Location Wappa Falls is located on Wappa Falls Road in Yandina. Read more about Wappa Falls
OT H E R N OTA B L E F R E S H WAT E R SWIMMING OPTIONS • Stony Creek, Bellthorpe: Creek swimming, toilets and
BBQ facilities
• Rocky Hole, Mount Mee: Creek swimming, accessed
via an unsealed road
• Lees Road Crossing, Dayboro: Creek swimming • Edward Allison Park, Eatons Hill: Shallow creek play • Gardners Falls, Maleny: Creek swimming • Serenity Falls, Buderim: Swimming hole beneath falls
www.brisbanekids.com.au
23
$ 5 0 O F F PA RT Y B O O K I N G S
10% DISCOUNT + A FREE DIY B R A C E L E T K I T F O R E V E RY G U E S T
Receive $50 off any party booked to take place before the end of June 2022 with Dancing Queen Parties.
Receive a 10% discount on any party booked with String of Beads Parties, PLUS a free DIY bracelet kit in each guest’s party bag.
Mobile service | Phone 0400 197 694
Mobile service | Phone 0430 216 085 | info@stringofbeads.com.au
www.dancingqueenparties.com.au
www.stringofbeads.com.au
Terms & Conditions: Bookings essential. Please mention voucher code ‘BRISBANEKIDS’ when completing online booking enquiry or when calling to book. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid for bookings received before 28/02/2022 (party date can be any time before 30/06/2022).
Terms & Conditions: Bookings essential. Please phone or email to enquire. Please mention voucher code ‘BK2022’ when completing online booking enquiry or when calling to book. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid for bookings received before 31/12/2022 (party date can be any time in 2022).
FREE MINI POPCORN 20% OFF ALL E SC APE RO OMS
Free mini popcorn with any child’s ticket purchase at Dendy Coorparoo or Dendy Portside. Cnr of Old Cleveland Rd & Cavendish Rd, Coorparoo Phone (07) 3493 3333
www.dendy.com.au/cinemas/coorparoo
20% off bookings at Fox in a Box Brisbane. Level 1, 150 Edward St, Brisbane | Phone (07) 3815 9825
Portside Wharf, Remora Rd, Hamilton | Phone (07) 3137 6000
www.foxinaboxbrisbane.com
www.dendy.com.au/cinemas/portside Terms & Conditions: Valid for one free mini popcorn per child’s ticket purchased at Dendy Coorparoo or Dendy Portside only. Voucher must be presented on your mobile device upon arrival. Up to four (4) mini popcorns redeemable per voucher. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid 11/12/2021 – 23/01/2022.
Terms & Conditions: All bookings must be made online. Valid for any room, for any number of people. USE ONLINE CODE ‘brisbanekids20’. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Games must be booked and played by 23/01/2022.
T W O F O R O N E E N T RY Buy one Unlimited Arcade or Pinball Pass and get one free at 1UP Arcade. 230 Lytton Road, Morningside
www.1uparcade.com.au Terms & Conditions: Available at 1UP Arcade Morningside only. Valid for one free entry with any paid entry of equal or lower value. Includes choice of all-day arcades or pinball entry. Subject to availability. Walk-ins only. Voucher code ‘2-FOR-1UP’ must be printed or presented on your mobile device upon arrival. Cannot be used for parties or functions. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 31/03/2022.
24
www.brisbanekids.com.au
BUY ONE, GET THE SECOND HALF PRICE
FREE STUDIO FEE
Buy one piece and get the second for half price at Plaster Fun House Brisbane East.
Book online for any group of two or more and receive one free studio fee (valued at $10) at Colour My Pot.
5/1396 Creek Road, Carina | Phone (07) 3843 4441
39 Middle St, Cleveland | Phone (07) 3134 2164
www.pfhbrisbaneeast.com.au
www.colourmypot.com
Terms & Conditions: Valid at Plaster Fun House Brisbane East only. Purchase one piece and receive the second for half price. Second piece must be of equal or lesser value. Present this voucher on a mobile device when purchasing to receive your discount. Cannot be used for parties or functions. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 23/01/2022.
Terms & Conditions: Bookings required online. Enter voucher code ‘BNEKIDS’ at checkout when booking online. Valid for group bookings of two or more at Colour My Pot, Cleveland. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or function. Valid until 31/01/2022.
1 FREE CHILD PER F U L LY PA I D A D U LT
F R E E P H O T O & V I D E O PA C K A G E
1 child bowls free with any full-priced paying adult at Aspley 10 Pin Bowl.
Free Photo & Video package valued at $25 with every eFoil Tour.
149 Albany Creek Rd, Aspley | Phone (07) 3263 8848
158 Ferny Ave, Surfers Paradise | Phone 0409 340 624
www.gcfoiltours.com.au
www.aspley10pinbowl.com.au Terms & Conditions: Bookings essential, please call to book. Voucher must be presented on your mobile device upon arrival. 1 free child per voucher. Voucher can be used as many times as you wish. Shoe hire NOT included. Not valid for league or tournament play. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 31/03/2022.
Terms & Conditions: Bookings essential, please visit www.gcfoiltours.com.au or call 0409 340 624 to book. This offer entitles you to one free Photo & Video Package with every eFoil Tour booked. Please use promo code ‘FLITEMEMORIES’ when booking. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 23/01/2022.
FREE REGUL AR COFFEE & MINICINO Receive a free regular coffee and a miniCINO at miniBOUNCE’s 8:30am session. Westfield Carindale, 1151 Creek Road, Carindale | Phone (07) 3569 0705
www.minibounce.com.au Terms & Conditions: Valid at miniBOUNCE Carindale only. Receive a free regular coffee & a miniCINO at miniBOUNCE’s 8:30am session daily. Present this voucher at entry to receive a free coffee and a child's minicino with ticket purchase. Additional shots, specialty milks and syrups are available at an additional price. Valid until 24/01/2022.
www.brisbanekids.com.au
25
BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE Pay for one Paint Your Own Pottery studio fee and get the second free at The Craft Haven.
$10 GAME CARD CREDIT One free $10 top-up on your game card at Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq.
Angus Street, Clontarf | Phone 0426 622 675
Toombul Shopping Centre, 1015 Sandgate Rd, Toombul Phone 1300 888 386
www.thecrafthaven.com.au
www.archiebrothers.com.au
Terms & Conditions: Valid at The Craft Haven, Clontarf only. This offer entitles you to one free Paint Your Own Pottery studio fee when a full price studio fee is purchased. Valid for Paint Your Own Pottery Studio sessions only. Please use promo code ‘241FUN’ when booking online or present this voucher when booking in the studio. Cannot be used for parties or functions. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until 31/01/2022.
Terms & Conditions: Available between 10am and 5pm at Archie Brothers Toombul only. Valid for children under 18 years only. Walk-ins only. Voucher must be presented on your mobile device upon arrival. To be used on games only. Only one $10 top-up per coupon, per person, per day. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer or function. Valid until 23/01/2022.
F R E E GA M E O F L A S E R TAG Kids play and pay for 2 games of bowling and receive 1 free game of Laser Tag at Strike Bowling. Level 1, Wintergarden, Queen Street Mall, Brisbane Phone 1300 STRIKE (1300 787 453)
www.strikebowling.com.au Terms & Conditions: Available between 10am and 5pm at Strike Wintergarden only. Walk-ins only. Voucher must be presented on your mobile device upon arrival. Valid for children under 18 years only. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, party or function. Valid until 23/01/2022.
26
www.brisbanekids.com.au
EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNTS & DE AL S Get great deals on things to do in Brisbane and beyond these school holidays! Head to the Brisbane Kids website for amazing deals on Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast theme parks, zoos and attractions.
www.brisbanekids.com.au/great-deals
SUMMER MOVIES
BACK TO THE OUTBACK
ENCANTO
Release Date: 2 December
Release Date: 2 December
Tired of being locked in a reptile house where humans gawk at them like they’re monsters, a ragtag group of Australia’s deadliest creatures plot a daring escape from their zoo to the outback; a place where they’ll fit in without being judged for their scales and fangs and where being different is beautiful.
Meet the Madrigals, who live in a place where the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift— from super strength to the power to heal—except one, Mirabel. When Mirabel discovers the magic of Encanto is in danger, it seems only the ordinary Madrigal might be her family’s last hope.
SPIDER-MAN: N O WAY H O M E
SING 2
Release Date: 16 December
Release Date: 26 December
Spider-Man, the friendly neighbourhood hero, is unmasked and no longer able to separate his normal life from being a superhero. When he asks Doctor Strange for help, the stakes become even more dangerous; forcing him to discover what it truly means to be Spider-Man.
With the New Moon Theatre now a local hit, Buster sets his sights on launching their show at the Crystal Tower Theater in glamorous Redshore City. In an attempt to get noticed, Gunter the of Porcine pitches an outrageous idea that leads to new challenges and new friends.
CLIFFORD THE BIG RED DOG
GHOSTBUSTERS: AFTERLIFE
Release Date: 30 December
Release Date: 1 January
When Emily met a magical animal rescuer who gifts her a little red puppy, she never anticipated waking up to find a giant ten-foot dog in her small apartment. While her mom is away, Emily and her fun but impulsive uncle Casey set out on a big adventure in New York City.
The next chapter in the Ghostbusters franchise has arrived! When a single mum and her two kids arrive in a small town, they begin to discover their connection to the original Ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind… Who you gonna call? www.brisbanekids.com.au
27
S U M M E R P L AYG RO U N D S
C A R I N DA L E R EC R E AT I O N R E S E RV E
BULIMBA MEMORIAL PA R K
• Space theme
• Rope climb elements
• Rocket fort
• Play shop fronts
• Pyramid climbing net
• Playing fields
• Accessible toilets
• Accessible toilets
• Lots of space and shade
• Shady trees
Location
Location
Located on Cadogan & Bedivere Streets, in Carindale.
Located on the corner of Oxford & Stuart Streets, in Bulimba.
Coffee Nearby Chris’ Juice and Coffee Bar, located at the IGA at 881 Old Cleveland Road Carina, offers a quick coffee and snack stop, with phone and Skip app ordering available. Read our Carindale Recreation Reserve review
28
www.brisbanekids.com.au
Coffee Nearby Park Bench Espresso, at 133 Oxford Street Bulimba, is open every morning and serves up great coffee and delicious breakfast options. Read our Bulimba Memorial Park review
S U M M E R P L AYG RO U N D S
A RT H U R D AV I S PA R K
7 T H B R I G A D E PA R K
• Rocking play boat
• Several play spaces
• Flying fox
• Forts
• Climbing trees
• Rock climbing wall
• Accessible toilets
• Accessible toilets
• Plenty of shade
• Plenty of shade
Location
Location
Located on Flinders Parade, in Sandgate.
Located on the corner of Newman Road & Delaware Street, in Chermside.
Coffee Nearby Serving specialty coffee and home baked food, including lots of gluten free options, Generations Cafe is located at 119 Deagon Street Sandgate. Read our Arthur Davis Park review
Coffee Nearby Located at 165 Main Avenue Wavell Heights, The Baristorian dishes up breakfast, brunch and other treats, as well as Clark St Roasters coffee. Read our 7th Brigade Park review
www.brisbanekids.com.au
29
FREE THINGS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST
Aura Treehouse Playground
FREE THINGS TO DO ON THE SUNSHINE COAST • Take the kids to Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve
Rainforest Discovery Centre to enjoy a range of multisensory educational displays, followed by a walk along one of their walking loops.
• Wake up early for a walk to the summit of Mount Coolum
to watch the sun rise (be early to avoid the crowds!).
• Take a swim in the Kings Beach Ocean Pool, followed by
some fun splashing in the water jets on the esplanade.
• Mountain bike one of the eight scenic Noosa Trail
Network mountain biking routes (perfect for teens!).
• Take a leisurely 1.5km walk to Buderim Falls. This is
best visited after rain and is a wheelchair and pram accessible walk.
• Take advantage of the free admission and visit The
Ginger Factory in Yandina.
• Take a leisurely 1.5km walk to Buderim Falls. This is
best visited after rain and is a wheelchair and pram accessible walk.
30
www.brisbanekids.com.au
Buderim Falls
FREE THINGS ON THE SUNSHINE COAST
Mary Carincross Centre
• Adventure to Kondalilla Falls in Maleny. Challenge
yourselves to a walk to the falls (4km circuit), or choose the easier 1.7km Picnic Creek Circuit to see some lovely rock pools.
• TDrive up to Rainbow Beach to check out the Carlo
Sand Blow.
• Head to Bulcock Beach at Caloundra on a windy day
to catch some kite surfers doing tricks at the mouth of Pumicestone Passage.
• Grab the bikes or scooters and head to Grahame
Stewart Park at Currimundi to enjoy its learn- to-ride traffic tracks.
Mount Coolum
• Grab the bikes or scooters and head to Grahame
Stewart Park at Currimundi to enjoy its learn- to-ride traffic tracks.
• Stroll stalls from local creators at the Sunshine
Coast Collective Markets at Coolum Beach or Alexandra Headland.
• Grab your snorkels and explore the Fairy Pools at
Noosa Heads.
• Blow up your inflatable floats and laze the afternoon
away in Lake Currimundi.Spend an afternoon at the Aura Treehouse playground. With multiple multi-storey slides, this is one of the most popular playgrounds on the Sunshine Coast.
• Walk along the boardwalk at Coolum Beach and up to
Point Perry Lookout and see if you can spot some turtles in the ocean.
Carlo Sand Blow
FREE THINGS ON THE GOLD COAST COAST
FREE THINGS TO DO ON THE GOLD COAST • Check out the views from Elephant Rock at Currumbin
and then cool off in the ocean below.
• Enjoy the free O’Reilly’s Tree Top Walk or, for older
kids, head to Morans Falls along the 4.6km return track (the waterfalls at the end are a worthy reward!).
• Take in the view at the Best of All Lookout at
Springbrook. For the best views, visit on a clear, crisp day (even better, after a couple of days of rain).
• Experience the daily lorikeet feeding at Currumbin
Wildlife Sanctuary (gold coin donation). You can take part in this activity without entering the park; every day at 8am and 4pm.
• Introduce the kids to Pirate Park at Palm Beach,
a unique, themed playground featuring a pirate ship and other nautical-themed play features.
Oceanview Walk, Burleigh Head National Park
• Walk around Burleigh Hill at sunrise. Or walk around
at sunset and you might be one of the lucky few to spot some fireflies!
• Take the kids land fishing at Currumbin Creek or The
Spit. You can also fish from the sand pumping jetty, but check first that it is open and get there early to secure your spot.
• Hike to the Natural Bridge and the glow worm cave
(it is an easy 1km circuit). Remember to wear hats, sunscreen and insect repellent. The glow worms are only visible at night.
• Spend a day at the Gold Coast Regional Botanical
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Gardens. Register in advance for a guided walk to learn about native bees or birds.
• Take the kids for a play at Kurrawa All Abilities
Playground, one of the biggest and best playgrounds on the Gold Coast for children.
Purling Brook Falls
32
www.brisbanekids.com.au
FREE THINGS ON THE GOLD COAST
• Explore the spectacular waterfalls in Springbrook
National Park. Some of our favourite walks include Purling Brook Falls Circuit and Twin Falls Circuit (both are 4km return and best visited after rain).
• Marvel at the German clocks at The Cuckoo Clock
Nest at Tamborine Mountain.
• Enjoy a day at the Currumbin Rock Pools, which offer
shallow splash options for toddlers and deeper pools for older children.
• Take the kids to Broadwater Parklands for a jump on the
seaside jumping pillow and a play in the free waterpark.
• Swim at Cedar Creek Falls and Rock Pools at
Tamborine Mountain. Pack light for the 1.4km walk and visit after rain.
Currumbin Valley Rock Pools
Broadwater Parklands, Southport
www.brisbanekids.com.au
33
DAV I D F L E AY W I L D L I F E PA R K
D AV I D F L E AY W I L D L I F E PA R K : A HIDDEN GOLD COAST GEM Nestled in the bushland behind Burleigh Heads is a little-known treasure called the David Fleay Wildlife Park. Established by Dr David Fleay in the 1950s, the wildlife park is a tranquil and quiet habitat for a large variety of wildlife, all of which are endemic to Queensland. Many of the animals, birds and reptiles that call the park home have been rehabilitated after being injured or diseased. If they are unable to be released back into the wild, they are lucky enough to live out their days in the 18 acres of eucalypt forest, rainforest and mangroves of the park. The park offers daily shows and talks with rangers, picnic facilities, bushwalks and an onsite cafe, making it a great morning or afternoon out for families.
34
www.brisbanekids.com.au
DAV I D F L E AY W I L D L I F E PA R K
Animals at David Fleay Wildlife Park Fleay’s is home to a number of endangered and rarelyseen species, including the bridled nail-tail wallaby, which was thought to be extinct until a small population was found in western Queensland in 1973. They also have the little-known Lumholtz tree kangaroo, which is only found in the wild on the Atherton Tablelands in North Queensland. Animals you can expect to find at David Fleay Wildlife Park include: • Pademelons • Proserpine rock-wallabies • Crocodiles (freshwater and estuarine) • Swamphens • Brolgas • Dingoes • Bilbies • Squirrel gliders • Spinifex hopping mice • Snakes • Potoroos • Koalas • Platypus • Cassowaries • Butterflies • Pelicans • Curlews • Frogs
Accessibility at David Fleay Wildlife Park For the enjoyment of the whole community, Fleay’s is very accessible for those using wheelchairs or bringing strollers or prams. The different sections of the park are connected by bitumen paths or timber boardwalks with ramps. A wheelchair-accessible bathroom is located next to the café. Guests can bring their own lunch and make use of the shaded tables and chairs, or spread out on a picnic rug. In late 2021, a brand new cafe opened at Fleay’s selling light meals, snacks, cold drinks, ice creams, tea and coffee.
• Dunnarts
There is also a separate 900m bushwalk that leaves from the reserve, called the Tallebudgera Creek walking track. The first 400 metres of the track are wheelchair and pram accessible, with room to turn around.
• Lace monitors
Getting to David Fleay Wildlife Park
• Owls • Bird of prey, including wedge-tailed eagles
• Emus
Animal encounters and shows at David Fleay Wildlife Park Staff at the park run daily presentations and although the schedule is subject to change, it often includes kangaroo feeding, a ranger talk about cassowaries, a nocturnal house tour and the long-running Fleay’s in Flight bird show. These presentations are all included in the entry price. During school holidays, the popular Junior Rangers program allows children to get hands-on and help out with animal feeding and enrichment, as well as going behind the scenes. These activities incur an additional cost and book out quickly, so visit qld.gov.au/davidfleay for more information. A new offering is their VIP tour, which, for an extra fee, allows you to personalise the tour according to the wildlife you are most interested in learning about.
David Fleay Wildlife Park is located on the corner of Loman Road and West Burleigh Road, West Burleigh. Parking at the park is free.
Opening Hours The centre is open daily from 9am until 4pm, and is closed on Christmas Day and ANZAC Day morning.
Cost of entry Adult: $25.50 Child (4 to 17 years inclusive): $11.55 Child (under 4 years): Free Concession (tertiary students, seniors/pensioners and other concession card holders): $16.80 David Fleay Wildlife Park website
www.brisbanekids.com.au
35
J E L LU RGA L A B O R I G I N A L CU LT U R A L C E N T R E
Touch the spirit that lives in the heart of the Gold Coast… That’s the slogan of Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre at Burleigh Head, and it couldn’t be more appropriate.
J E L LU RGA L WA L K A B O U T TOUR The Walkabout Tour runs on weekdays at 10 am and begins in the centre’s theatre with an informative talk by an Aboriginal elder. Your tour guide will then take you outside and into Burleigh Head National Park, where First Nations people have lived for countless generations. As you stroll along the 1.2km (one way) oceanview track, you’ll not only take in stunning views, you’ll also pass sites of significant cultural value. One of these sites is a shell midden, on the left-hand side of the track. To the untrained eye, it looks like an unremarkable collection of broken shells. But it was actually a place where Indigenous women would meet and deposit waste from a meal or feast and leave it in a large pile. Over time, these shells have broken down, but some have been scientifically dated as being hundreds of years old. It provides a fascinating insight into the lifestyle and diet of the local Yugambeh people over a long period of time. Your tour guide will also share some dreaming stories, which explain the geological structures of beautiful Burleigh Heads. Walkabout Tours cost $39 for adults, $20 for children aged five – 14, and free for those under five years of age. 36
www.brisbanekids.com.au
J E L LU RGA L A B O R I G I N A L CU LT U R A L C E N T R E
JELLURGAL LIT TLE EXPLORERS In the school holidays, primary school-aged children can enjoy a program of activities called Jellurgal Little Explorers. The 1.5-hour session includes a short guided walk and koala spotting, listening to Dreamtime stories and participating in an Aboriginal art workshop. Each child receives a Little Explorers passport booklet that offers activities for them to complete during the program or afterwards. The flat walk takes in part of the Burleigh Head Oceanview track, which is both pram and wheelchair friendly. It can get hot, so we recommend taking a hat, water bottle and sunscreen. Jellurgal Little Explorers tours cost $25 per child (adults are free per paying child). These tours can also be booked by vacation care providers and school groups.
J E L LU RG A L C U LT U R A L CENTRE It is well worth visiting the cultural centre, even if you don’t have time to do a tour. Inside is an impressive collection of Aboriginal art and gifts, all certified as authentic and produced locally. There’s also an indoor boardwalk with interpretative displays that allow you to explore the traditional lives of the Yugambeh people. Entry to the centre is free, and it is open Monday to Friday from 8 am until 3 pm. Off-street parking is available, and public toilets are located outside. Jellurgal is a not-for-profit organisation, and all funds raised go towards the Kalwun Development Corporation, which provides a range of services and facilities for the Gold Coast’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, including housing support, health care, aged care, child protection and more.
Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre is located at 1711 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Head. For bookings, please visit their website.
www.brisbanekids.com.au
37
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN BRISBANE 2021
PL ACES TO FIND CHRISTMAS LIGHTS IN BRISBANE 2021 Get into the festive spirit by discovering the best Christmas lights in Brisbane with the biggest Christmas Lights List in Brisbane, that includes driving maps to make it easier to get around! On the Brisbane Kids Christmas Lights List, you will find wonderful Christmas light displays in north, south, east and west Brisbane, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and Logan City. Use the QR code to go to our Christmas Lights List
Ready. Set. Glow. The Moreton Daily Christmas Lights Competition is here. Vote now for your favourite Moreton Bay Region lights display for your chance win $1,000 cash. Can we get a watt, watt? Head to moretondaily.com.au/christmas
Proudly sponsored by 38
www.brisbanekids.com.au
CHRISTMAS MARKETS 2021
S C A N D I N AV I A N CHRISTMAS MARKET
NUNDAH CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT MARKETS
4 December @ Ashgrove
4 December @ Nundah
Enjoy a celebration of Christmas and Scandinavian culture all wrapped up in a holiday market. There will be food, drinks, music, arts and craft, entertainment and much more.
Running from 4pm ’til 10pm, you can devour gourmet eats and drinks, shop handmade gifts, dance to live music and tire the kids out with elf-approved fun, plus a visit from Santa.
S U N D AY Z CHRISTMAS MARKET
RED CLIFFE CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT MARKETS
5 December @ 17 Mile Rocks
11 December @ Redcliffe
Browse through a huge assortment of 75 stalls while listening to live music and having fun in the free kids zone including a waterslide and sit down undercover area.
Redcliffe Jetty will be transformed into a Christmas wonderland, with kids’ activities, sideshow alley, amazing market stalls, live entertainment and a magical firework display.
THE COLLECTIVE MARKETS CHRISTMAS EDITION
CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT MARKETS
17 - 23 December @ South Bank
18 December @ Caboolture
Stroll through the fairy light-adorned stalls as you shop from a mix of traditional Christmas themed products, including decorations, gifts, cards, toys, clothing, food and more.
Ride on a Monster Truck, see Santa, watch the fireworks, shop at the market stalls and feast on delicious food at this family-friendly festive twilight market.
Support local this Christmas and shop for your Christmas gifts at a Christmas market near you. The Brisbane Kids website has a list of over 50 Christmas markets in 2021 - find one near you here. www.brisbanekids.com.au
39
UPCOMING SHOWS
A CHRISTMA S CAROL
THE NUTCRACKER
2 - 24 December @ QPAC
16 - 23 December @ QPAC
Experience Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, a magical, grand-in-scale production that’s perfect for the entire family and brimming with song, humour, love and lashings of festive joy.
Attend what has become a Brisbane family Christmas tradition, as Queensland Ballet performs The Nutcracker with beautiful dancing, costumes and sets
GUESS HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU
360 ALL STAR S
5 - 9 January 2022 @ QPAC
5 - 16 January 2022 @ QPAC
Join the enchanting adventure of Little and Big Nutbrown Hare as they discover the magic and colour of the seasons in a dazzling new stage adaptation of the beloved books.
Watch as BMX, basketball, breakdancing, beatboxing, acrobatics and drumming unite in a spectacular fusion of the extraordinary artistry that emerges from street culture.
40
www.brisbanekids.com.au
UPCOMING SHOWS
SLEEPING BEAUTY
FROZEN
20 - 22 January 2022 @ Conservatorium Theatre
10 February - 17 April 2022 @ QPAC
See a favourite story brought to life on stage in a tale that has captured generation after generation of fans, performed by the talented dancers at Brisbane City Youth Ballet.
Let it go as the Oscar-winning film, Frozen, comes to life with gorgeous sets and costumes as well as sensational special effects, in an inspiring tale of sisterhood and true love.
H A R RY P OT T E R AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX™ IN CONCERT
DINOSAUR TIME MACHINE
5 March 2022 @ Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre
11 - 14 April 2022 @ Brisbane Powerhouse
Let the wizarding world enchant you all over again as the film is projected onto a giant screen and a live symphonic orchestra performs the score.
Join two time-traveling scientists as they explore all things dinosaurs using science, circus, puppetry and plenty of imagination, incorporating up-to-date discoveries all about dinosaurs. www.brisbanekids.com.au
41
MUST SEE EVENTS
HARVE ST SE A S ON
CHRISTMAS PUTT PUTT
Until 23 December @ Granite Belt Christmas Farm
Until 31 December @ Victoria Park
Establish a new family Christmas tradition and wander through the paddocks to pick your own fresh Christmas tree, then feed Santa’s animals and visit Santa (weekends only).
Hit a hole in one on Victoria Park’s festively decorated putt putt course that features Frosty’s Fairway, a Gingerbread Village, Elf City and Santa’s Runway.
THE SNOW VILLAGE
SPY: ESPIONAGE IN AUSTR ALIA
Until 9 January @ Toombul Shopping Centre
Until 6 February @ The Workshops Rail Museum
Immerse yourself in a snow-filled winter wonderland this Christmas and celebrate the most magical time of the year surrounded by tons of real, fresh snow.
See genuine spy equipment and surveillance images, play the part of a secret agent in the interactive family trail and test your skills at codebreaking and reading invisible ink.
42
www.brisbanekids.com.au
MUST SEE EVENTS
THE ENCHANTED GARDEN
B U I LT F O R S P E E D
1 - 23 December @ Roma Street Parkland
3 December - 30 January @ Ipswich Art Gallery
Weave through glittery displays and sensory wonders at The Enchanted Garden, Brisbane’s sparkliest Christmas family tradition, at Roma Street Parkland.
Design, build and race your own LEGO® hot rod, dragster or supercar down cool ramps and slick tracks, modify it for extra speed and race it again against all your friends.
STANTHORPE MUSIC AND ART S FE STIVAL
NORTH L AKES CHRISTMA S CAROL S
4 December @ Weeroona Park
5 December @ Kinsellas Park
Experience an explosion of live music, visual art and performances in the heart of the Granite Belt, with a cheeky roving circus, puppet shows and workshops just for kids.
Grab a blanket, spread out, relax and enjoy a magical evening with lots of family-friendly entertainment, including Christmas activities, markets, Christmas llamas, Santa, fireworks and more. www.brisbanekids.com.au
43
MUST SEE EVENTS
CHRISTMA S AT S A N C T UA RY C OV E
A BUSH CHRISTMAS
6 - 11 December @ Sanctuary Cove
10 December @ Downfall Creek Bushland Centre
Watch Sanctuary Cove come alive with something for the whole family to enjoy, with a buggy parade, Santa and his sleigh, live Christmas shows and the Cove Christmas tree.
Take a candlelit (LED lights, of course) stroll through the bush, stopping to listen and sing Christmas carols along the way. Also has wildlife displays and Christmas craft.
CHRISTMAS IN IPSWICH
S E N S O RY M OV I E DAY
10 - 19 December @ Nicholas Street Precinct
12 December @ selected Event Cinemas
‘St Nicholas Precinct’ will offer a spectacular immersive lights display and larger-than-life installations. This free event will include live entertainment, movies and festive food.
Designed just for kids with sensory needs, watch Boss Baby: Family Business with the lights left on dim, the volume adjusted slightly and, most importantly, no judgement.
44
www.brisbanekids.com.au
MUST SEE EVENTS
CHRISTMAS C ARNIVAL
REDCLIFFE CHRISTMA S CAROL S
12 December @ Sandstone Point Hotel
12 December @ Moreton Daily Stadium
Sing your favourite carols, shop at the market stalls, have fun on the kids’ rides, dine from the delicious food stalls, watch the fireworks and say hello to the man in red.
Celebrate the festive season and sing along to your favourite Christmas songs, meet some llamas and Santa, have fun in a giant snow globe and watch the fireworks.
A RC H E RY AT THE ABBEY
CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST
13 - 17 December @ Abbey Museum
15 - 19 December @ Raby Bay Harbour Park
Come and try your hand at archery and enjoy a brief discussion on the history of archery, followed by several rounds of shooting at the medieval shields. Includes access to the Museum.
Enjoy a night full of festive fun, featuring Christmas carols, Santa photos, rides, activities and food trucks, followed by the lighting of the Christmas tree and a Christmas movie.
www.brisbanekids.com.au
45
MUST SEE EVENTS
LITTLE HUMPTY’S C H R I ST M A S PA RT Y
CHRISTMAS CINEMA
15 December @ Summerland Camels
18 - 23 December @ South Bank
Dress in your best Christmas outfit and enjoy feeding, patting and cuddling the camels, a farm tour, kids’ activities, Christmas flavoured gelato and Santa arriving on a camel.
Pack some festive nibbles and a picnic rug and settle in to watch beloved Christmas cinema classics, including Elf, Polar Express, Last Christmas and The Grinch.
D AY O U T WITH THOMAS
THE BIG BOUNCE
27 December - 23 January 2022 @ The Workshops Rail Museum
14 - 16 January 2022 @ Eagles Sport Complex
Meet everybody’s favourite engine, Thomas, along with The Fat Controller and all their friends, at a Thomasinspired hands-on exhibition every Thomas fan will love.
Jump through the largest touring inflatable event in the world, with the world's largest jumping castle, a bouncy sports arena, a giant obstacle course and an out of this world inflatable airspace.
46
www.brisbanekids.com.au
MUST SEE EVENTS
AU ST R A L I A DAY
BRIS A SIA FE STIVAL
26 January 2022 @ Sandstone Point Hotel
1 - 20 February 2022 @ Various Brisbane Locations
Slip, slop, slap for a fun day out in the sun with plenty to do for the whole family, including a 50m slip n slide, BBQ lunch, lamington eating comps, live music and entertainment all day.
Experience Brisbane’s largest Asian cultural extravaganza, featuring three weeks of outdoor activities, traditional entertainment and interactive cultural events in and around Brisbane.
LUNAR NEW YEAR
STANTHORPE APPLE AND GR APE HARVE ST FE STIVAL
5 February 2022 @ Caboolture Town Square
25 February - 6 March 2022 @ Stanthorpe
Celebrate the year of the Tiger with traditional music, traditional food. Chinese Dragon dancing, cultural displays, cracker displays, pyro showcases, market stalls and workshops.
Experience a true feast for the senses at a 10 day festival packed with family fun, including street parades, foodies markets, grape crushing, buskers and live entertainment.
www.brisbanekids.com.au
47
LONG RUNNING EVENTS
VAN G O GH ALIVE
DISNEY+ DRIVE-IN
Until 23 January @ The Grand Pavilion
Until 3 January 2022 @ Carrara Sports Precinct
Immerse yourself in Van Gogh's art in this multi-sensory exhibition featuring an interpretive area, SENSORY4™ Gallery, Van Gogh’s bedroom and the sunflower room.
Drive in and enjoy a month-long program dedicated entirely to Disney movies, including action flicks, all time favourites and, of course, a selection of Disney classics.
BRICKMAN WONDERS OF THE WORLD
P L AY
Until 30 January 2022 @ Queensland Museum
Until 13 February 2022 @ Bribie Island Seaside Museum
From the Great Wall of China and Taj Mahal, to the Empire State Building, this world-class exhibition made entirely of Lego takes you on an interactive trip throughout history.
Put the screens away and explore this fun-filled, hands-on game space, with games of childhood's past for all ages to enjoy - fun and laughter is guaranteed!
48
www.brisbanekids.com.au
LONG RUNNING EVENTS
THE 80S
ISLAND FUTURES
Until 6 March 2022 @ Redcliffe Museum
Until 25 April 2022 @ Queensland Museum
Pop a tape in the boombox and revisit the fun of the 80s, with classic video games, 80s fashion dress-ups - test your trivia knowledge and share your best 80s memories.
Discover more than 200 objects and images interwoven with Islander perspectives and stories, along with a number of works from well-known artists, photographers and more.
APT10 KIDS
CITY IN THE SUN
Until 25 April 2022 @ GOMA
Until April 2022 @ Museum of Brisbane
Engage with themes of inclusion, diversity, collaboration and community through hands-on making and multimedia activities, artwork displays and large-scale installations.
Enter a colourful exhibition with playful reinterpretations, flamboyant re-imaginings and quiet reflections, proposing exciting new images of Brisbane’s subtropical identity today. www.brisbanekids.com.au
49
PLAN AHEAD EVENTS
WORLD SCIENCE FE STIVAL BRISBANE
KALBAR SUNFLOWER FE STIVAL
9 - 13 March 2022 @ Various Brisbane locations
26 & 27 March @ Scenic Rim Flower Farm
Experience the biggest event on the science calendar as Brisbane comes alive with an array of exciting events in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM).
Wander through 300,000 sunflowers in the picturesque Scenic Rim sunflower fields, take some amazing photos and enjoy local entertainment, food and beverages.
ANY WHERE FE STIVAL
S CENIC RIM E AT LOCAL WEEK
5 - 22 May @ Various Brisbane locations
25 June - 3 July @ Various Scenic Rim locations
Discover performances anywhere but a theatre, with over 500 performances to choose from on rooftops, in churches, at ferry stops and in other nooks and crannies in Brisbane.
Indulge in the best of the best the Scenic Rim has to offer, with a week-long celebration showcasing local food and wine, as well as open days and special events.
50
www.brisbanekids.com.au
PLAN AHEAD EVENTS
THE BRISBANE AIRSHOW
INDIGENOUS WILD F O O D S & C U LT U R A L FE STIVAL
2 & 3 July @ Brisbane Valley
3 July @ Beenleigh Historical Village
Take a drive to see Warbirds, World War II Fighters, jets, helicopters, aerobatics, military vehicles, hot rods, live music, amusement rides and so much more.
Celebrate NAIDOC Week with a traditional Welcome to Country ceremony, Wild Foods menu, live workshops, market stalls and kids’ activities including arts and crafts.
EKKA
SWELL SCULPTURE FE STIVAL
5 - 14 August @ Brisbane Showgrounds
9 - 18 September @ Currumbin Beach
See the best of Queensland, including woodchopping, animals, world-class live entertainment, award-winning food, carnival rides, showbags and famous strawberry ice creams.
Head down to the beautiful Currumbin Beach and check out the amazing sculptures along the coastline, plus enjoy twilight walks, children’s workshops and pop up exhibitions.
www.brisbanekids.com.au
51
52
www.brisbanekids.com.au
