LetsGoKids 2016-17 Sydney Edition by Terry Wilson

- 2017 dney & Surrounds

uide to Sy The No.1 Family G

Out & About in Sydney City Darling Harbour Manly & Nth Beaches Eastern Suburbs The Hills Shire The Hawkesbury Inner West & Blacktown

Penrith & Blue Mountains Southern Suburbs & Wollongong

Eat Play/Party Watch Wot’s On

“Get off the couch and get out there!”

Sydney’s Hands-on Wildlife Experience

SEE PAGE 30

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017 Wot’s On - Games - Vouchers - www.LetsGoKids.com.au

SHOP Z A R A , H& M , U N I Q LO, F O R E V E R 2 1. ..

EAT B U R G E R P R O J E C T, TG I F R I DAYS, B O N D I P I Z Z A ...

P L AY E V E N T C I N E M A S, M AC Q UA R I E I C E R I N K , S T R I K E B OW L I N G ...

Sydney 2017 Contents

Help Me, Help Me - I’m a parent?!?!?!?

Out & About in

You’ve run out of ideas, the weekend is coming up and you’ve got that birthday to plan. OMG! The holidays are next week and they’ll be home for a fortnight. Aaargh! Don’t worry you’ve come to the right place! At LetsGoKids we’ve done the hard yards, kicked the tyres, found the best spots to eat and play, where to shop, what to see and even where to stay! We’ll let you know what’s on and where, how much it is and try to help the budget with some special deals and vouchers! There are also puzzles, games, competitions and birthday party ideas to keep the kids entertained.

Darling Harbour Manly & Nth Beaches

Eastern Suburbs

The Hills Shire

The Hawkesbury 24

Travelling somewhere else??? We’ve got that covered too! Check www.letsgokids.com.au to find out all the things for families in WA, VIC, NT, TAS, and NZ Order the books online or check the distribution list to see where to get one! Check us out online with updated events, deals and specials. Follow our tips and ideas on (@LetsGoKidsAuNZ) and LetsGoKids & LetsGoKids NZ Also, make sure you sign up for our FREE monthly E-newsletter at www.letsgokids.com.au It has great tips and events, stories, reviews, competitions, giveaways and games.

The LetsGoKids UPDATED smartphone app is here!!! Take us with you everywhere you go! Loaded with all the latest events, deals, vouchers for discounts and GPS mapping to get you there! It’s FREE to download for Android or iOS at the Google play store or the Apple store

Sydney City

Inner West & Blacktown

Penrith & Blue Mountains

Southern Suburbs & Wollongong

Eat

Play/Party

Watch

Wot’s On

Advertiser’s Index General

The Hills Shire

18 Inside Front Cover The Hills Shire 19 3 Castle Hill RSL 20 Back Cover Boing Central The Ettamogah Hotel 21 Sydney City Starlets Cheerleading 22,23 Holiday Inn Old Sydney 5 The Hawkesbury Munich Brauhaus 5 24 Sydney Cricket Ground 6 Australiana Pioneer Village 24 Cook & Phillip Park Aquatic Centre 7 Hawkesbury Tourism Lynwood Country Club 24 Darling Harbour Sydney Trail Riding Centre 25 9D Cinemas 10 Trees Adventure 25 Harbourside Shopping Centre 10 Inner West & Blacktown Australian National Museum 11 Victoria Park Pool 26 Eat Blacktown City Council 27, 30 Bavarian Bier Café 12 Wet ‘n’ Wild Sydney 28,29 Featherdale Wildlife Park Front Cover, 30, 46 Manly & North Beaches Blacktown Workers Sports Club 31 Hello Manly Info Centre 13 Penrith & Blue Mountains Pittwater Mini Golf 14,15 Mercure Penrith 34 Eastern Suburbs Hubertus Country Club 35 Prince Alfred Park Pool 16 Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Cultural & Education Centre 36 37 Fly Motion 17 Luddenham Raceway Blue Mountains Council 38 Blue Mountain Explorer Bus 39 Macquarie Centre Australian Visitor Centre Symbio Wildlife Park

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Southern Suburbs & Wollongong Sydney Tramway Museum Sage Hotels Illawarra Light Railway Museum WIN Sports & Entertainment Centre Flip Out Lagoon Restaurant The Fraternity Club Shellharbour City Council

40 40 41 41 42, 43 43 44 45

Play / Party Timezone Skyzone Indoor Tramp Park Sports Camps Australia

47 49 50

Watch Sydney Thunder Sydney Sixers NSW Swifts AFL NSW GWS Giants Football Club GIANTS Netball Sydney Blue Sox Sydney Kings

52 52 53 54, 55 56, 57 59 60 61

Really, really important stuff Emergency – Phone 000

Public Holidays (16/17) 25 Dec Christmas Day 26 Dec Boxing Day 1st & 2nd Jan New Year’s Day 26 Jan Australia Day 14 April Good Friday 15 April Easter Monday

25 Apr 12 Jun 7 Aug 2 Oct 25 Dec 26 Dec

Anzac Day Queens Birthday Bank Holiday Labour Day Christmas Day Boxing Day

Police, Fire & Ambulance .................................................................. 000 Kids Help Line .................................................................. 1800 55 1800 NSW Family Services ....................................................02 9692 9999 Interpreter Service ..........................................................1300 651 500 Airports: Sydney .................................................................................. 02 9667 9111

School Holidays (16/17) Summer Autumn Winter Spring

17 Dec 16 - 30 Jan 17 8 Apr 17 - 25 Apr 17 1 Jul 17 - 17 Jul 17 23 Sept 17 - 8 Oct 17

Tourist Information Centres

Ok this is toooo boring for kids…

But some grown-ups might need to read this info ‘cos they’re interested in this or whatever… LetsGoKids Pty Ltd - ABN: 85 122 538 103 95 Chapel Lane, Doreen, VIC 3754 Fax: 03 9717 4440 Advertising & Listings (Print, Web & App) Terry Wilson - Email: office@letsgokids.com.au | Ph: 0407 012 940 Graphic Design The LetsGoKids in house studio led by Rebecca Palk can design and produce graphic art for your advertising needs, whether it be print, web or app. For no obligation and highly competitive quote, email Rebecca at letsgokidsgraphics@gmail.com Special Thanks / Contributors Destination NSW, Nagalakshmi Thyagarajan, Cassie Wilson, Karen Clark, Michelle Gomez and Rebecca Palk. Photos Uncredited photographs used are owned by LetsGoKids or Destination NSW (and used with permission) unless otherwise stated. All photos & logos for listings supplied by individual business owners. Unauthorised use of images or text will be subject to legal action. Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure that all information is correct at time of press. The Publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for errors or omissions in the LetsGoKids publication. Vouchers and discount expiry dates are up to the discretion of individual business owners unless otherwise stated. Indemnity Listing photographs/logos/text and advert artwork, have been supplied to LetsGoKids by business owners or their Advertising Agencies, Graphic Designers or representatives.

Bankstown 80 Rickard Road Ph: (02) 9707 9708 Blacktown Flushcombe Road Ph: 1300 302 858 Bundeena 69 Loftus Street Ph: (02) 9523 2115 Camden Camden Valley Way, Elderslie Ph: (02) 4658 1370 Campbelltown 15 Old Menangle Road Ph: (02) 4645 4921 Cronulla 11/38-60 Croydon St Ph: (02) 9527 2100 Dural 656a Old Northern Rd Ph: (02) 9651 4411 Hawkesbury Hawkesbury Valley Way Ph (02) 4560 4655

Haymarket Dixon Street Ph: (02) 9265 9333 Manly Manly Wharf Forecourt Ph: (02) 9976 1430 Parramatta 346a Church Street Ph (02) 8839 3311 Sydney Airport Airport Dr Ph: 1300 402 060 Darling Harbour 33 Wheat Road Ph 1800 067 676 The Rocks 24 Playfair St Ph: 1800 067 676 Town Hall 483 George Street (02) 9265 9333 Wollondilly 22-26 Menangle St Ph: (02) 4677 8313

Hospitals Balmain Hospital 29 Booth St, Balmain ....................................... .(02) 9395 2111 Canterbury Hospital 575 Canterbury Rd, Campsie ........................ .(02) 9787 0000 Concord Repatriation General Hospital Hospital Rd, Concord ....................................... (02) 9767 5000 Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Missenden Rd, Camperdown .......................... (02) 9515 6111 Bankstown Hospital 68 Eldridge Rd, Bankstown .............................. (02) 9722 8000 Bowral Hospital Mona Rd, Bowral ............................................... (02) 4861 0200 Camden Hospital Menangle Rd, Camden .................................... (02) 4634 3000.

Campbelltown Hospital Therry Rd, Campbelltown ............................... (02) 4634 3000 Fairfield Hospital Cnr Poldin St, Prairiewood ............................. (02) 9616 8111 Liverpool Hospital Elizabeth St, Liverpool ...................................... (02) 8738 3000 Auburn Hospital Hargrave Rd, Auburn......................................... (02) 8759 3000 Blacktown Mount Druitt Hospital 18 Blacktown Rd, Mt Druitt ............................ (02) 9881 8000 Westmead Hospital Cnr Hawkesbury & Darcy Rds, Westmead ..(02) 9845 5555 Nepean Hospital Derby St, Kingswood ........................................ (02) 4734 2000

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- Sydney City

Sydney is the capital of New South Wales and is Australia’s oldest and largest city with a population of around 4 million.

Sydney Checklist

Don’t leave Sydney without having...

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Sydney was first visited by the British in 1770 when Captain James Cook and Joseph Banks sailed the Endeavor into Botany Bay. The First Fleet arrived at Botany Bay in 1788 under the command of Governor Arthur Phillip and Australia under British rule was born!

The city is divided into North and South by the Sydney Harbour, with both The Sydney Harbour Bridge and Tunnel connecting them. Most of the tourist attractions are in the South part of the city, with a large business and residential area in the North.

Sydney City

The older part of the city consists of The Rocks and Circular Quay to the North, with Central Station marking the South. Darling Harbour marks the West and there are a number of parks to the East.

The CBD and Harbour were the original area settled when Arthur Phillip established an English penal colony in the “Rocks” in 1788. The rough countryside resulted in a confusing collection of streets and laneways, rather than a neat grid of roads and avenues. Today the area is a tourist mecca with visitors rubbing shoulders with Sydneysiders commuting to work via the extensive ferry system. Half of Australia’s finance and banking sector is located in the area around Circular Quay.

- Visited Centennial Park on a weekend to see the place buzzing with joggers, dog-walkers and cyclists. - Taken a ferry from Circular Quay to Manly for killer views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge & Opera House. Take your bathers & make it a beach day too. - Climbed the Southern Pylon of the Harbour Bridge - Walked down the Manly corso, spent a few hours at Manly beach and eaten an ice cream. - Walked across the Harbour Bridge for one of the world’s great views - Ascended to the top of the Sydney Tower for a birds eye view over the CBD & suburbs - Visited the outstanding Sydney Aquarium at Darling Harbour - Examined who is who at Madame Tussauds Can you tell who is who? - Taken a ride around the underground train network on the neat double decker trains - Checked out the picturesque and world renowned Taronga Zoo - Jumped on the train and travelled up to the nearby Blue Mountains (p. 38) - Taken a tour of the hallowed SCG or even seen a game live (p. 6) - Visited the Opera House and marvelled at the design and construction - Stepped back in time to the days when travel was by water at the National Maritime Museum (p. 11) - Spent an evening or a day in the world class Darling Harbour precinct - Had a meal and a drink at the Bondi Icebergs, overlooking Bondi beach - the view is spectacular! - Walked the crooked cobblestoned back alleys & laneways of The Rocks, and imagined days gone by. - Visited Sydney’s oldest building, The Sydney Mint. - Popped into the history museum at The Rocks to trace the early settlement of Sydney. It’s FREE

On the corner of Market and Elizabeth Streets you will find the country’s most prestigious department store - David Jones. Don’t miss the chance to shop in the famous Queen Victoria building. This stunning shopping centre occupies an entire city block. Initially completed in 1989, the Queen Victoria was restored during the 1970’s and is now home to a huge array of boutiques and designer stores.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Sydney City -

Out & About

Sydney City

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

- Sydney City

DID YOU KNOW

In 1897 the junction of Victoria Street, Darlinghurst Road and William Street was originally called Queens Cross, after reigning monarch Queen Victoria. It was changed 8 years later to Kings Cross.

Opposite the Queen Victoria building is the historic Sydney Town Hall, built in the 1880’s. While in the city travel to the top of Sydney Tower, the tallest structure in Australia, and see amazing 360° views of Sydney. Some of Sydney’s best beaches are within a 10 km radius from the city centre. Explore the popular beaches of Bondi and Manly, go further afield to Sydney’s Northern Beaches, or discover some hidden gems inside Sydney Harbour.

Who said: “You don’t get something for nothing?” Let LetsGoKids show you how to spend a day or even a week in and around Sydney “on the cheap”, where you can see and do lots .... and spend nothing! (or just a little). 1.Why not start your visit to Sydney with a free walking tour with a knowledgable local guide? Rain, hail or shine the guys from I’m Free Walking Tours walk everyday at 10.30am and 2.30pm The 3 hours easy walking tours will show you the sights and give you your bearings so you can then go it alone. Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Out & About

Sydney is still a great mix of old and new just waiting for you, with each “village” having its own distinct character. So get off the couch, ring a friend, grab the kids, take advantage of our vouchers and offers in the book and online, sign up for our enewsletter, download the app to “stay in the know” ... and just get out there and DO IT! Have fun - The LetsGoKids Team

SCG

2. Walk around Bennelong Point to the Opera House. Climb the steps and look back at the city. Maybe take the tour?

GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Sydney City

90 minute behind-the-scenes tour at Sydney Cricket Ground + Allianz Stadium Fun filled attraction for sports loving families and kids birthday parties

FAMILY TICKETS

SAVE 35% OFF REGULAR PRICES

BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL www.scgexperience.com.au

TOURS MONDAY – SATURDAY tours@scgt.nsw.gov.au | 1300 724 737

See website for tour dates and times. Tour itinerary subject to change without notice (causes include but not limited to site activities and inclement weather).

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Sydney City -

3. Walk across the Harbour Bridge – The view is amazing. If a ship happens to be passing at the same time, it looks spectacular. Walk back again or catch the train from Milson’s Point. 4. Next to the Sydney Opera House is the Royal Botanic Gardens, an oasis, with a free guided tour that departs daily from the Visitor Centre. 5. Take a leisurely weekend stroll around “The Rocks” or Circular Quay and be entertained by the variety of street performers (donations gratefully accepted). 6. Check out the early history of Sydney at The Rocks Discovery Museum. Lots of indigenous displays too – FREE

Out & About

7. Walk the coastal path from Coogee to Bondi. Spectacular beachside scenery. In spring, the Sculptures by the Sea exhibition is scattered along the path. 8. On a warm day, cool off with a dip at the world famous Bondi Beach. Go people watching, as visitors from all over the world congregate on the sand. Stroll over to the equally famous headquarters of the Bondi Icebergs and check out their ocean pool. 9. Head to the Royal Botanic Gardens, a 30-hectare oasis of tropical plants, green lawns, ponds and shady trees overlooking the harbour. Join the free guided walk that departs daily from the Visitor Centre, or follow a self-guided themed tour. 10. Get out and about with your family on any Sydney public transport on Sundaysfor only $2.50 per person. Just pack a lunch and go exploring, you can even get to Cockatoo Island! You never know what you might find. 11. Go to The Art Gallery of NSW where kids can have fun at free performances on Sundays, exploring art through drama, storytelling, music and mime.

Sydney City

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- Sydney City

12. Climb the 200 stairs to the Harbour Bridge South Pylon Lookout at 87m above sea level. The views are spectacular (costs a little)

16 Get lost in the Royal National Park,The second-oldest national park in the world, the Royal is home to over 100km of walking tracks through rainforest gullies, over dramatic windswept cliffs and down to pristine beaches. (www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/Royal-National-Park).

13. Soak up the sun at Centennial Park, where unemployed men were enlisted to turn this marshy catchment area into a huge English-style park, which opened in 1901 – the birthday of Australia’s federation – for the enjoyment of all Sydneysiders. (www.centennialparklands.com.au).

17. Check out the kids activities at the State Library of NSW. Always changing – always interesting.

14. Head down to Darling Harbour on a Saturday night and witness the spectacular fireworks display

18. The National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour has fascinating displays of dugout canoes, jet-powered hydrofoils and an historic collection of naval vessels. You can take the kids free on select days.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

15 Visit the SCG and take a tour of the grand old stadium and learn its history (costs a little) - (p.6)

19. Sydney Olympic Park has many great attractions for the whole family and most of them are free. Walk through rejuvenated wetlands or take your bike for a spin along the cycle tracks. The parks “BirdLife Discovery Centre” is open every weekend and admission is free. 20. Catch the Manly ferry (costs a little) for a cheap cruise on one of the world’s great harbours. They depart from Circular Quay.

Sydney Ferries Network 1

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Taronga Zoo

Parramatta River

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Check timetables and trip planners for ferry services and connections 2 1

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LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Sydney Trains Network 1

To Central Coast & Newcastle Line

Berowra

Richmond

Mount Kuring-gai

East Richmond

Mount Colah

Clarendon

Asquith

Thornleigh Pennant Hills Beecroft

Sydney Metro Northwest under construction

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Schofields Carlingford

Eastwood

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International Airport

Station Access Fee applies

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Belmore

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Hurlstone Park

Regents Park Canley Vale

Liverpool

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Sydenham

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St James Museum

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Check timetables and trip planners for train services and connections

Out & About

- Darling Harbour

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Only a 10-minute stroll from Town Hall, station or by water from Circular Quay or light rail from Central, Darling Harbour is the perfect place to entertain the whole family, enjoy a delicious harbourside meal or experience Sydney’s energetic night-life.

One of Sydney’s largest dining, shopping and entertainment precincts, Darling Harbour has a full calendar of outdoor events as well as one of the city’s most restful spots, the Chinese Gardens of Friendship. The Powerhouse Museum is nearby and it has constantly changing (family themed) exhibitions.

Harbourside is a diverse shopping centre offering over 25 mouthwatering restaurants, cafés and bars, over 40 fashion and accessories stores and plenty of entertainment. Harbourside is home to the Hard Rock Café Sydney. Feast on their legendary burgers, smoked barbeque ribs and divine desserts. Olivo, Hurricane’s Grill, Thai Foon, Crinti’s, Zaaffran and Dragon Boat offer unique and delicious cuisine from around the world.

At Darling Quarter Kids Playground, there’s a gigantic circular swing, a tangle of wobbly balance ropes, giant steel slides and a super-long flying fox. The centrepiece is the Octanet: cotton-wool kids need not venture up the ten-metre-tall contraption – even to us, this thing is high! Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Darling Harbour

A mecca for city workers and visitors alike, it has something for all ages. It is home to the National Maritime Museum, The Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussaud’s, Wild Life Sydney Zoo, a range of cruise companies, IMAX Theatre and children’s Theatre Company Monkey Baa, as well as the great Tumbalong Park and Playground.

Burn off some energy at Harbourside Kingpin Bowling, a bowling experience like no other. If you need a little more excitement M9 Laser Skirmish is an action packed indoor laser adventure game without the pain of paintball. If you have always wanted to be a pilot then Flight Experience gives you the unique opportunity of flying a commercial grade jet simulator based on the Boeing 737. Harbourside is open 10am to 9pm daily.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

AU S T R A L I A N N AT ION A L M A R I T I M E M U S E U M

U N DE R WAT E R A D V E N T U R E S Marvellous undersea worlds are waiting for you to explore these holidays. See award-winning kids’ exhibition Voyage To The Deep, have fun with games and dress-ups, enjoy a lively theatre show by Monkey Baa and climb aboard a real-life submarine.

EXHIBITION PRODUCER

MEDIA PARTNER

ACCOMMODATION PARTNER

DARLING HARBOUR SYDNEY • BOOK NOW • anmm.gov.au/schoolholidays Members FREE •

• #anmm

Eat Sydney is a great city for eating out WORTH A LOOK! with the whole family, with fresh food The Australian Hotel and Brewery in Rouse at affordable prices and spectacular Hill has two play areas, a multi level locations to eat. You’ll find many cafes, climbing frame, soft play area for toddlers, pubs and restaurants in Sydney have FREE wifi and a real kid’s menu. They also have free face painting on Sundays and children’s menus that offer great value Nick Kids on the TV! or earlybird deals in the evenings for families. Out West Picnics are popular in the many tranquil parks around Sydney Harbour, one of the world’s great natural harbours. Take a ferry to Shark Island for a picnic lunch with marvellous views of the harbour, or head for world-famous beaches at Bondi or Manly for fish and chips by the ocean. The Hills The Grounds Keeper in Ryde and Arthurs Cafe in Baulkham Hills will keep them entertained whilst you relax. Castle Hill RSL (p.19) has an amazing outdoor eating and relaxing space complete with massive playground. The Ettamogah Hotel (p.21) has an amazing offering for families on weekends, including face painting and either a petting zoo or reptile show!

Blacktown Workers Sports Club (p.31) and Hubertus Country Club (p.35) love kids and have many activities to keep them entertained. Panthers has a big indoor play centre. Inner Sydney Centennial Park Cafe, The Grounds of Alexandria (they even have a resident pig and chooks) and the retro Flood St Carousel in Leichardt are worth a try. Northern Beaches Belrose Hotel and Newport Arms Hotel have so much for the kids that they’ll be begging to stay!! The ‘Gong’ The Fraternity Club (p.44) has play areas, outdoor soccer pitches and great family events.

Family Sundays KIDS EAT FREE ALL DAY* FREE FACE PAINTING & ACTIVITIES *with any full-priced adult’s meal *kids aged 12 & younger BOOK NOW AT YOUR LOCAL bavarianbiercafe.com BONDI BEACH • CHATSWOOD • ENTERTAINMENT QUARTER • MANLY WHARF MIRANDA WESTFIELD • PARRAMATTA • YORK STREET, SYDNEY

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Manly & Northern Beaches

Out & About

Manly is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. Considered the gateway to Sydney’s beautiful Northern Beaches, it offers a wide variety of unique attractions and activities for people of all ages. Manly is just fifteen minutes from Sydney CBD by ferry, (but much longer by car!) making it the perfect place to visit for a day, or to use as your place to stay whilst in Sydney! Nowhere in the world is quite like Manly.

The view is great from either side of the ferry – but on the starboard side – to the right – you’ll pass the Sydney Opera House, the Royal Botanic Gardens, Woolloomooloo naval base, harbour islands, Rose Bay and Watson’s Bay, and then the two headlands which open the famous Sydney Harbour out onto the ocean. You’ll see yachts racing all year round, the occasional cruise or naval ship, kayaks and speedboats. You’ll also pass some of the world’s priciest real estate – those harbourfront properties with their own private beaches do not come cheap. Manly was designed after the city of Brighton in England by Henry Gilbert Smith. The streets mimic the lanes of Brighton, which lead from the city centre to the sea. It is famous for its promenade of pine trees, which were first planted by the early English settlers.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

DID YOU KNOW Manly plays home to one of the last colonies in Australia of little fairy penguins! Some of these little penguins live under the Manly Wharf and on occasion can be seen swimming around Manly Cove!

On its own small peninsula, it’s bound by Sydney Harbour, the Sydney Harbour National Park, and the Pacific Ocean. Like most National Parks, Sydney Harbour National Park is home to bushwalking and hiking paths, native wildlife and beautiful scenery. But unlike other National Parks, this one sits on Sydney’s Harbour, providing the most scenic walks and the most beautiful secluded swimming spots in Sydney. Manly’s Q Station is one of the biggest attractions in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Explore the historic site by day or face your fears on the spooky nightly ghost tours. Keep your eye out for native wildlife. You can even stay overnight - if you dare!

Manly & Northern Beaches

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

The Manly ferries from Circular Quay bring thousands of tourists to the Manly Wharf all day long with ferries leaving every hour from the city and back again.

- Manly & Northern Beaches

As you head north away from Manly, the beachside suburbs of Dee Why and Collaroy are less crowded and have restaurant strips right on the water complete with the always well positioned surf clubs for patrolled swimming beaches, great views and normally have large grassy parks adjacent.

These other northern beaches including Palm Beach and Narrabeen offer an alternative to Manlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hustle and bustle.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Take a stroll past South Steyne beach to Shelley Beach and back. There, you can have a swim or go snorkelling - you may see hundreds of yellowtail, sting rays, Wobbegong sharks laying on the sandy bottom, turtles, occasional dolphins and even the rare humpback whale with her newborn calf. It is an amazing underwater kaleidoscope so close to a major city!

# SA

LetsGoKids

Voucher

Manly & Northern Beaches

Voucher

Out & About

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- Eastern Suburbs DID YOU KNOW

The Eastern Suburbs of Sydney are famous for their beaches and spectacular views from towering sandstone clifftops.

Rose Bay was the original international airport for Sydney when the airlines operating toward the Pacific, SE Asia and onward to Europe used sea-planes. The old seaplane terminal and airport administration building has been converted into use a waterfront restaurant.

Coogee Beach is a very pretty and popular beach. A little smaller than Bondi, it has a bit of a similar feel to it. Nice for swimming and walking, with a rock pool at the southern end of the beach. Plenty of facilities surrounding it. Coogee has pubs, restaurants and takeaway places. Bronte’s beach area is entertaining for its surfing, challenging currents for swimmers, natural rock pool, ocean pool and a vast grassed area with barbecue pits. The neighbourhood is also bliss for local parents, who pack the kids, swimsuits and boogie boards for long, lazy days on the sand. Australia’s best known beach, of course, Bondi Beach, attracts people from all over the world to swim in its waters.There are plenty of accommodation and food places lining the shoreline. Be certain you head to The Icebergs for a meal and a drink - What a view!

Eastern Suburbs

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

The gorgeous beaches hold many treasures, from the sheltered Clovelly Beach (originally named ‘Little Coogee’) around to Gordon’s Bay, a secluded area that is great for snorkelling. Bronte and Clovelly are beautiful local favourites found between the best known environs of Bondi and Coogee.

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Out & About

Eastern Suburbs The Entertainment Quarter (EQ) is an iconic entertainment, leisure and retail precinct located in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. EQ features cinemas, restaurants, bars and retail shops, largely surrounding The Showring, an exceptional outdoor performance and event space, and the home of The EQ Village Markets. From shopping, food and drinks, markets, a state-of-the art cinema complex, a dance school, kids play centre and a film and television school, every time you visit EQ youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re guaranteed to find something new.

The secret is out: kids love EQ! Everywhere you turn thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something to put a smile on their faces and keep them entertained. EQ is fun for the whole family.

There are indoor playgrounds, outdoor playgrounds, plaster painting studios, bowling, petting zoos, pony rides, bungy tramps and the new Action Zone - It is brand new and open Wed, Sat, Sun and all school holidays. It combines unique and innovative inflatables with the interactive sensory play activities in an environment that is comfortable not only for the kiddies but parents and carers too. The Action Zone is targeted at children between 1-10 with an emphasis on the toddlers and little ones.

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Eastern Suburbs

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# LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 100s of reasons to visit the Sydney Hills Discover them for yourself. #SydneyHills.

www.thehills.nsw.gov.au

The Hills Shire Within 35-minutes of leaving Sydney’s CBD, you’ll find yourself racing past gleaming futuristic towers before arriving at luscious bushland parks with breathtaking mountainous peaks perched in the background, followed by expansive water views of the Hawkesbury River.

Out & About

The national parks and forests are home to native wildlife, waterfalls, sandstone cliffs and remnants from our early colonial past. There are lots of beautiful recreational locations to relax and unwind with an abundance of cycleways and walking tracks to keep you fit, happy and healthy.

Start the day with a walk and lace-up your joggers and experience one of the many scenic tracks, trails and parks available in the region.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

The region provides an invigorating assault on all five senses and presents the complete package for anyone looking for an epic adventure, a day out with family or friends or a chilled afternoon along the water.

Grab a bite to eat, whether it’s lunch on the verandah of an old country pub, fish and chips along the riverfront, a coffee in a quaint cafe or experiencing the relaxed family atmosphere of the Ettamogah Pub or the super cool Castle Hill RSL - there are plenty of varied choices.

The Hills Shire

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- The Hills Shire

only

$10

per session

The Hills Shire

Take a walk through the Museum Discovery Centre and find hundreds of treasures on display - the interactive displays and unique items keeps the kids entertained for hours. Or, spend some time at Golden Ridge Animal Farm and have a turn at holding baby chicks, ducklings, rabbits, milking a cow, bottle feeding lambs. The Hills is rich in early history with many significant buildings and sites providing a unique glimpse into our colonial past.

Take a trip back in time with a tour at Bella Vista Farm, Roughley House and The Pines or Aberdoon House. Time your visit well and you could attend a theatrical interpretative experience that really gives you a feel for how it was. Educational and engaging! Follow every twist and turn to the Hawkesbury River during a scenic country drive along one of the oldest roads in Australia. Experience the days of the stockman at Tobruk Sydney as you follow the Great North Road - Australia’s only convict built road which remains in its original state.

SUMMER SERIES IN THE SYDNEY HILLS

Bursting with flavour, fun and fanfare, the Sydney Hills come alive from November to February with a captivating array of events. For more information, please visit www.sydneyhillsevents.com.au. Some of the stand out events include Australia Day and Lunar Festival (Sun 29 Jan), not to mention a mix of events for families of young and old. ORANGE BLOSSOM FESTIVAL A massive two-day festival celebrating the best of local community with rides, kids zone, markets, live entertainment, delicious food, community stalls, fireworks, parade and so much more. www.orangeblossomfestival.com.au

Most parks provide a children’s playground, picnic tables, wood and electric barbecues, toilets, Finish your day with a barbecue at Heritage Park shelters and ample parking for you to kick-back - once the original site of Government Farm and and enjoy the afternoon. To see more, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search a convict asylum. Heritage Park is one of many The Insider’s Guide Into The Hills. open spaces available in The Hills Shire. LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- The Hawkesbury

The Hawkesbury Region is a hidden gem at Sydney’s doorstep. Sydney’s original food bowl was established as the third settlement in Sydney by Governor Phillip in 1789. The Hawkesbury region has beautiful rural vistas, magnificent rivers and more national parks than any other part of Sydney. For the family there is much on offer – quiet country roads, a magnificent 120km river to explore, historic buildings, amazing bushwalks, MEDIA ICONS fabulous fruit picking, and of course coffee shops, 36 SOCIAL OUTLINE BORDER WHITE local markets, a historic pioneer village and even a 36 SOCIAL MEDIA ICONSICONS 36 SOCIAL MEDIA vineyard or two! OUTLINEOUTLINE BORDERBORDER WHITE WHITE

DID YOU KNOW

Located on the edge of the Wollemi and Blue Mountains National Parks, you can embark on an adventure to experience nature at its finest.

The Riverboat Postman cruise departs (Monday - Friday) from the Brooklyn Wharf and allows you to join the skipper on his daily mail run. Take in the magnificent scenery and the sights and sounds of riverside life as the skipper entertains you with incredible stories gathered over a lifetime navigating the Hawkesbury.

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The Hawkesbury

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

The Hawkesbury Take a bushwalk, challenge yourself with rock climbing, or swing from the trees like Tarzan, cycle in unique locations, hire a canoe, learn how to wakeboard or just find a spot by the river to have a picnic and swim. Come out for an afternoon drive or stay a few days. Discover the Hawkesbury - you’ll be surprised what you’ll find.

Markets in The Hawkesbury Bilpin Markets - Each Saturday morning 10 - 12 Bilpin District Hall, Bells Line of Rd, Phone 02 4567 2124 Lions Club Market - Held at Hawkesbury Showground - Saturday Morning 7-1, Richmond Park, Windsor St, Richmond Rotary Market - Held at Hawkesbury Showground, Clarendon. Held every second Saturday of the month Windsor Mall Sunday Market - Every Sunday Windsor Mall between Baker and Fitzgerald Sts, Windsor. 9-3pm Windsor Riverside Markets - Every 3rd Saturday 9-2 Western Sydney’s newest outdoor monthly marketplace! Governor Phillip Park, George St Windsor

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The Hawkesbury

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- Inner West

The Inner West of Sydney started life as a series of working class suburbs inhabited by blue collar workers involved in the ship building industry around Balmain and agriculture in places like Enfield and Erskineville. Each suburb has its own character and charm, with ethnic groups prominent in many. Balmain has a very interesting history. One of Sydney’s oldest suburbs, it started life as a ship building town where many of Sydney’s iconic green and yellow ferries were built. It has extensive parklands including Hogan Park connecting to Bicentennial Park, Hinsby Park and Cohen Park.This park features playgrounds, picnic shelters, barbecues, toilets and several car parks.

Inner West

Haberfield is a foodie heaven. Walk down Ramsay St on a Saturday morning and you’ll feel you’ve gone through a time warp and entered 1950’s Italy. There are traditional Italian bakeries, cake shops, modern cafe, pizzerias, a butcher and supermarkets that have endless supplies of all things Italian.

For Italian culture as well - Leichhardt - Si Si!! Norton St is full of Italian cafes and restaurants and is always lively. There’s also The Forum, which is meant to resemble an Italian square, but more often acts as a navigational tool for planes flying to Sydney airport!! Rozelle is a leafy village on the Balmain Peninsula with a quirky mix of art galleries, flea markets and some of Sydney’s best cafes and pubs with homes tucked away in narrow back streets typical of the 1800s and early 1900s. More adventures can be had outdoors visiting the extensive parklands, particularly Leichhardt Park, Whites Creek Valley Park and William Stuart Playground beside the historic Aquaduct. The inner west is unlike anything you will find anywhere else in Australia! Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Out & About

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

AUSTRALIADAY DAY AUSTRALIA

CONCERT && FIREWORKS FIREWORKS CONCERT tHuRsdAY2626jAnUarY jAnUarY2017 2017• •4pm4pm-9.30pM 9.30pM• tHE • tHErOotY rOotYhILl, hILl,eAsTerN eAsTerNrD,rD,rOotY rOotYhIlLhIlL tHuRsdAY

ChoirBoys ChoirBoys Crash Opera Opera Boom Crash

Amber LaWrence LaWrence bmx • mOtOcrOsS • FooD StaLlS • fReE rIdeS bmx • mOtOcrOsS • FooD StaLlS • fReE rIdeS

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GATES OPEN

4.00pM 4.00pM

SHADOWBOXER

5.00pM 5.00pM

THUNDERSTRUCK

SHADOWBOXER

THUNDERSTRUCK

6.00pM 6.00pM

BILLABONG JAM

6.45pM 6.45pM AMBER LAWRENCE AMBER LAWRENCE

8.30pM 9.45pM 7.30pM 9.30pM 8.30pM 9.45pM 7.30pM 9.30pM

BOOM CRASH OPERA BOOM CRASH OPERA

CHOIRBOYS

FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR

EVENT CLOSE

THE ROOTY HILL IS A 10 MINUTE WALK FROM ROOTY HILL RAILWAY STATION OR CAN BE ACCESSED BY CAR VIA EASTERN ROAD, ROOTY HILL. LIMITED FREE PARKING IS AVAILABLE. AUSTRALIA DAY 2017 IS PROUDLY PRESENTED BY BLACKTOWN CITY COUNCIL AND SUPPORTED BY FEATHERDALE WILDLIFE PARK. THE ROOTY HILL IS A 10 MINUTE WALK FROM ROOTY HILL RAILWAY STATION OR CAN BE ACCESSED BY CAR VIA EASTERN ROAD, ROOTY HILL. LIMITED FREE PARKING IS AVAILABLE.

AUSTRALIA DAY 2017 IS PROUDLY PRESENTED BY BLACKTOWN CITY COUNCIL AND SUPPORTED BY FEATHERDALE WILDLIFE PARK.

Alcohol free event

9839 6000

www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au

@blacktowncc

Blacktown City Council

wet weather hotline 9839 6577

- Blacktown

The city of Blacktown is situated approximately 35km from Sydney CBD in the heart of the West. Blacktown City is easy to access from any Sydney Motorway or main rail line. It is home to the International Sporting Precinct that hosts AFL, Baseball and Soccer. Blacktown City has over 800 open space areas with many of them featuring playground equipment for children to enjoy. They are also ideal for picnics, family gatherings, social games, resting, relaxing and even health, wellbeing and fitness activities with more and more parks installing permanent outdoor fitness stations for public use.

Surrounded by the historic Rouse Hill House and Farm, Rouse Hill Regional Park is a little bit of country in the suburbs. Featuring picnic and BBQ areas, plenty of space for family bike rides or rejuvenating walks, you can even bring your dog along. The children will love the large wooden adventure playground area and you will enjoy the tranquility. Having undergone a wonderful transformation, the historic Showground is now home to lovely open spaces, picnic and BBQ facilities, fun childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playground and water splash zone, where children enjoy getting very wet by shooting the water cannons and splashing through the water sprays.

Also located with Nurragingy Reserve is the quaint little Nurragingy Blacksmith Hut, where traditional blacksmithing demonstrations are held some weekends and the Water Splash Area, where children love to get wet as they splash around the water sprays during the summer months.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Nurragingy Reserve at Rooty Hill is a sprawling natural bushland reserve of more than 84 hectares and offers picnic and BBQ areas, childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s playgrounds, walking and cycling tracks, formal garden areas and a picturesque lake. Located with the reserve is Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens. This garden is very picturesque and relaxing.

# SA

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Out & About

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- Blacktown

Australia Day

Wake Up With the Wildlife Breakfast Thursday 26 January 2017

Featherdale Wildlife Park, Doonside

Entry between 7am - 9am Tickets

available from council or online www.blacktown.nsw.gov.au

per person

Wet’n’Wild - The biggest and best water theme park ever built is home to a never before seen range of slides and attractions. Open from November to April, it is right on the Motorway and easily accessible – Did you know it has Red own surf school for kids?? The Riverstone Museum - Originally the first public school to open in Riverstone in 1882, this museum now displays items from the historic meatworks, historical farm machinery, household furniture and more.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Blacktown is also home to state of the art aquatic centres and in nearby Doonside, Featherdale Wildlife Park (See below) offers an up close and personal experience with a range of Australian Native Animals. You can even celebrate your birthday there (p.46)! All money raised will be donated to a nominated charity by Featherdale Wildlife Park 9839 6000

@blacktowncc

Blacktown City Council

wet weather hotline 9839 6577

Featherdale Wildlife Park is located on Kildare Road, Doonside. The ticket is only valid on Australia Day with entry between 7am-9am.

DID YOU KNOW

Ghost Tours of the old St Bartholomews Church in Prospect are held on the second Saturday of each month. Blacktown City Council take bookings.

Blacktown

CODE: LGKids

SAVE 20%*

FREE IF UNDER 3

*20% discount is available Monday to Friday only, outside of NSW 2017 school holidays (see page 2 for dates) on adult and child tickets. Not valid with any other offer. Book online using promocode LETSGOKIDS or, show this advert. www.featherdale.com.au/wild-weekday-fun

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SYDNEY’S HANDS-ON WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE featherdale.com.au | +61 2 9622 1644 | 217 Kildare Road Doonside NSW 2767

WILD WEEKDAY FUN (FREE ADMISSION FOR 0-2 YEAR OLDS)

WALK-IN KOALA SANCTUARY FREE KEEPER TALKS FARMYARD FAVOURITES HAND FEED A KANGAROO FREE ONSITE PARKING OPEN DAILY 9AM - 5PM LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Games NSW WORD SEARCH

BEACH BLUE BLUE MOUNTAINS BONDI BUSH WALK FERRY FESTIVALS HARBOUR HOYTS LUNA PARK MANLY MARKETS OPERA HOUSE PENRITH SIXERS SOX STADIUM SYDNEY THUNDER WARATAHS WILDLIFE

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Games

Identify the 6 places where Cooper is hiding & you can win an awesome prize! Visit our competitions page and enter your answers at www.letsgokids.com.au

WHERE IS COOPER

THE LetsGoKids

PUPPY HIDING?

HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW SYDNEY? Across 4. What is the name of the annual yacht race that starts in Sydney harbour? 6. What is the name of the largest Buddhist temple in NSW and the entire Southern Hemisphere? 7. What Disney movie features a lot of its plot around getting to Sydney? 8. What city of NSW has the highest population? 9. What do the locals otherwise call the Harbour Bridge? 10. What is NSW floral emblem? 11. If you live in Sydney, you are a.... 12. Where is Sydney can you see celebrity wax statues? Down 1. What royal name does the Sydney basketball team have? 2. What is the name of the greater Western Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s AFL team? 3. What Sydney beach has its own TV show? 4. What is the name of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest outdoor Sculpture exhibit? 5. What highway links Melbourne to Sydney? 13. How many states does NSW border? 14. Name the second tallest free-standing structure in all of Australia 15. What is the name of the oldest public building in the Sydney CBD?

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- Penrith & Blue Mountains

Penrith is located 62kms from Sydney CBD and is easily accessible by all major motorways from all points of the city - the train stops right in the heart of town too!!

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Adventure here comes in a variety of forms; whether you’re after action-packed, laid back or outdoors – An adventure awaits you in Penrith. Home to Australia’s only indoor skydiving facility and the southern hemisphere’s best white-water facility; there is also jet packing, go-karting and wakeboarding at Cables Wake Park all year round.

There’s an observatory for those with a keen interest in astronomy, the Museum of Fire where kids can learn about firefighting and a world-class performing arts centre which runs drama, dance and music workshops.

Panthers is located on 82 hectares of landscaped grounds at the foothills of the Blue Mountains. With a wide range of restaurants to suit all tastes, first class live entertainment, gaming, bars, Indoor fun zone for kids, accommodation and outdoor leisure, Panthers World of Entertainment has something for all ages.

Penrith & Blue Mountains

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

WORTH A LOOK!

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Out & About

- Penrith & Blue Mountains Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Surrounded by mountains, sweeping valleys and lakes, there is no better place to explore the great outdoors. Situated at the foot of the Blue Mountains, Penrith is the perfect place to go for a bushwalk. The bushwalk to the famous Rock Lookout is approx. 2.5km. Kids can also explore the Nepean River by boat, canoe or jet ski and observe the wildlife along the way.

The Hubertus Country Club (p.35) is nearby and they love families. If all this activity is a bit much for you, climb aboard the Nepean Belle Paddlesteamer for a â&#x20AC;&#x153;cruisyâ&#x20AC;? way to see the sights of the area. As you can see, the area is loaded with things for all the family - Come stay awhile!

HANDY HINT The Great River Walk offers stunning scenery along the Hawkesbury-Nepean River. Take your bike, pack a picnic and put on your walking shoes.

Penrith & Blue Mountains

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Located just outside of Penrith is the township of Luddenham, complete with a fantastic GoKart track and soon to be open paintball.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

- Penrith & Blue Mountains

Penrith & Blue Mountains

Out & About

LetsGoKids Sydney 2016

Penrith & Blue Mountains -

Out & About

The Blue Mountains are part of the Great Dividing Range, which stretches from the Gippsland region of Victoria in the south to the tropical rainforests of north Queensland. The foothills are only 60 kms from the Sydney CBD. Accessing all the famous sites and sights of Leura and Katoomba including the Echo Point Lookout and Three Sisters is easy on a hop-on/ hop-off Explorer Bus (See below). Experience the thrill of the world’s steepest railway at Scenic World, Katoomba. Be suspended 270m above the valley looking through partially-glassed floor in the Scenic Skyway; wander the 2.4km easy grade Scenic Walkway through pristine rainforest; and glide between the cliff top and the forest floor in the Scenic Cableway.

Unearthed tour. Meet the ``dinosaur tree’’, the prehistoric Wollemi pine, and stroll among one of the world’s finest collections of cool climate plants from around the world in a beautiful mountainside setting at Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah.

A fantastic all-weather activity, Blue Mountains Cultural Centre at Katoomba features the Blue Mountains City Art Gallery and interactive World Heritage Exhibition where the whole family can learn about the wonders of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area in marvellous hands-on detail. Step through the doors at The Gingerbread House at Katoomba and feast on fairytale sweet treats. Sip on a Ginger Mule, Woodcutters Nectar, a Hansel or Gretel or a Magical Witches Brew if you dare. Kids can take their time choosing from the range at the ice cream counter and lolly shop and play outdoors in the enclosed playground with gingerbread-themed cubby house.

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Penrith & Blue Mountains

Australia’s most magnificent caves system, Jenolan Caves, offers a range of special activities for small people especially during school holidays. Of course families can also go on the usual tours of spectacular show caves, adventure tours, night tours and the new Fossils

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

More than 400 walking tracks, thrilling activities and fairytale eateries abound in the Blue Mountains – right on Sydney’s doorstep.

Out & About

- Southern Suburbs & Wollongong

Located just 80 kilometres south of Sydney, Wollongong is a stunning costal destination nestled between the escarpment and the sea. For the water babies and beach lovers alike, the allure of Wollongong’s 17 patrolled beaches is hard to resist. Learn to surf or paddleboard with one of the surfing schools located along the coast. Or simply bring your shovel, bucket and body board and create your own fun. With over 60 kilometres of cycle ways in and around Wollongong, cycling is an excellent way to explore the city and all that it has to offer. Alternatively, you can stroll the beautiful Blue Mile and take in Wollongong’s stunning harbour and ocean front cafes.

Southern Suburbs & Wollongong

Whilst you’re strolling the harbour, take note of Wollongong’s rich history as you explore the preserved forts and cannons that dot the Blue Mile.

HANDY HINT The FREE Gong Shuttle runs every 10 to 20 mins. The service operates in both directions on a loop from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University via Wollongong Hospital, Burelli Street and the Innovation Campus. The route numbers for the Gong Shuttle are 55A and 55C.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Southern Suburbs & Wollongong- Out

& About

These were built in the late 1800â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s to provide a deterrent to a possible Russian attack on Wollongong Harbour. Wollongong also boasts a plethora of family friendly attractions including the Science Centre and Planetarium, Symbio Zoo, Jamberoo Action Park, The Illawarra Museum, The Australia Motorlife Museum and the Nan Tien Temple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the largest Buddhist Temple in the Southern Hemisphere! Hovering 45m above the forest floor, the Illawarra Fly Treetop Walk provides picturesque views from Bass Point in the south to Bundeena in the north. A sunrise walk allows visitors to capture the start of the day from on high.

Southern Suburbs & Wollongong

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Southern Suburbs & Wollongong- Out

& About

Symbio Wildlife Park has the full offering of native animals as well as exotic Sumatran Tigers, Meerkats, Red Pandas and Cotton Top Tamarin monkeys. Featuring a range of great animal encounters, a visit to Symbio is perfect for animal lovers of all ages. A new hands on childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s farm area is due to open in December! DID YOU KNOW

Wollongong has 23 beaches, 17 of which are seasonally patrolled with North Wollongong Beach patrolled 365 days a year

New South Walesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; largest theme park Jamberoo Action Park is jam-packed with family entertainment and fun for all ages. Open from September through April, attractions include a wave pool, speed slides, mini golf and the Funnel Web water slide.

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Southern Suburbs & Wollongong

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Shellharbour - Out Shellharbour…. is a picturesque seaside location just 90 minutes south of Sydney on the South Coast of NSW.

Shellharbour Festivals and Events

Whether you’re seeking a seaside escape, an adventure or a great value family holiday, you’ll be delighted with Shellharbour.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Shellharbour offers five stunning beaches include ‘The Farm’, a National Surfing Reserve located within Killalea State Park where the little and big kids can learn to surf by taking a lesson with a surfing school. Lake Illawarra is a fabulous spot for a family picnic where the children can splash about in the shallow waters edge. You can drop line at any of our exceptional fishing spots around Shellharbour or have fun snorkelling in the protected waters of Bushrangers Bay the region’s only Aquatic Reserve at Bass Point.

Hire bikes and enjoy a ride along the waters edge on the extensive cycleways in the area. Experience the speed of indoor or outdoor go karting, have some old time rollerskating fun or take a train ride at the Illawarra Light Railway Museum.

& About

Shellharbour provides a summer holiday lifestyle, a beautiful, calming countryside, lots of high quality shopping, splendid wining and dining in a relaxed family atmosphere, great sporting facilities and a vast range of activities and events – and you get laid back that’s well and truly laid on.

JANUARY Albion Park Show - Albion Park Showground Shellharbour Australia Day Celebrations Breakfast by the Lake - Reddall Reserve, Lake Illawarra Australia Day Fireworks - The Shellharbour Club FEBRUARY Annual Shellharbour Game Fishing Tournament Shellharbour Boat Harbour, Shellharbour MARCH Shell Cove Shellharbour City Festival of Sport Dragon Boat Challenge – Skiway Park, Oak Flats Walk or Run for Fun – Shell Cove Relay for Life - Albion Park Showground APRIL Annual Shellharbour SLSC Ocean Swim Shellharbour Boat Harbour, Shellharbour MAY Wings over Illawarra - Illawarra Regional Airport KidsFest Shellharbour - Various locations Ride Around the Lake - Lake Illawarra SEPTEMBER Shellharbour Bike About - Lake Illawarra PCYC OCTOBER SLAM Down Under Wheelchair Basketball Shellharbour City Stadium Halloween Express Train Rides Illawarra Light Railway Museum NOVEMBER i98fm’s Illawarra Convoy Croome Regional Sporting Complex, Albion Park Tongarra Train Fest - Illawarra Light Railway Museum DECEMBER Carols by Candlelight - Reddall Res, Lake Illawarra Carols by the Harbour Little Park, Shellharbour Harbour New Year’s Eve Fireworks - The Shellharbour Club For full event details on these and other events visit www.visitshellharbour.com.au or contact the Shellharbour Visitors Centre on 02 4221 6169

k Booine l On

1300 656 169

Shellharbour

Located only 90 minutes south of Sydney

For a FREE Visitors Guide or information & bookings on accommodation, events, and attractions please call

Open 7 days (9am to 5pm) Cnr Addison & Wentworth Streets, Shellharbour Village

www.visitshellharbour.com.au

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Play/Party There are plenty of places both indoor and out where kids of all ages can get together to play and party. In this section we offer you a selection of both as well as our favourite beaches and parks. Blaxland Riverside Park - Sydney Olympic Park Water play facilities, free BBQ’s, walking and cycling tracks, bike hire and awesome playground. Mascot Playground (Forster St) Excellent play equipment, sandpit, swings, a train and easy access and parking.

Here is a list of places to party at .. Strike Bowling - 1300 787 453 AMF Bowling - 02 9746 0700 Putt Putt Planet - 02 9522 7888 The Powerhouse Museum - 02 9217 0111 SEALIFE Sydney Aquarium - 02 8251 7800 Madame Tussauds - 1800 205 851 Sydney Eye Tower - 1800 258 693 Monkey Mania - 02 9380 9525 Australian National Maritime Museum 02 9298 3777 Wizard of Oz Funland - 02 4626 7777 Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre - 02 9518 7220 Cook & Phillip Park Aquatic - 02 9326 0444 Featherdale Wildlife Park - 02 9622 1644 Skyzone Indoor Tramp Park - 13 75 99 Jungle Buddies - 1300 883 819 Macquarie Ice Rink - 02 9888 1100 Pittwater Golf Centre - 02 9913 7991 Fly Motion - 1300 842 030 Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym - 02 9728 2825 WILDLIFE Sydney Zoo - 1800 206 158

CELEBRATE

CODE: LGKids

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UNIQUE PARTY VENUE

Visit the website or call for details. www.featherdale.com.au/birthday-parties/

SYDNEY’S HANDS-ON WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE featherdale.com.au | +61 2 9622 1644 | 217 Kildare Road Doonside NSW 2767

‘WILD’ BIRTHDAY PARTIES FILLED WITH WILDLIFE 3 DIFFERENT PACKAGES PRIVATE NATIVE ANIMALS & KOALA MASCOT AVALABLE SMALL PLUSH TOY FOR EACH CHILD OPEN DAILY 9AM - 5PM LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Play/Party Holroyd Gardens - Holroyd Large playground area and a purpose built “road” for the youngsters to start to learn the traffic signs and road rules on.

Sydney Park - St Peter Popular with the local community as it offers not just a cafe but also plenty of play equipment including hill-slides, a suspension bridge and water play in the sandpit. Livvi’s Place - Five Dock This inner city playground offers lots of interesting play equipment including a roundabout, an all abilities ramp and slide, a climbing net, a sway bridge, tandem bull riders, a snakes and ladders path, a musical sculpture and the natural areas. There’s plenty of shady areas, lots of space for ball games, a cafe and a toilet block.

Plough and Harrow Park - Abbotsbury Perfect for kids of all ages. There’s a lot to do in terms of gross motor, including a hamster wheel, a flying fox and a big climbing frame. There’s a special area just for the toddlers. The included water park is perfect for summer, and there’s plenty of shaded space for picnics. Pirrama Park – Pyrmont Once little eyeballs see this Pyrmont park’s giant sandpit, they won’t be leaving. Under a big yellow umbrella, it is like a mini fossil-excavation site. Nearby, a giant tangle net sits among slides and swings, and you’ll find plenty of those spinning-gravitational-rotators to get on. Plus there are cafés close by for parents, and food trucks often stop by on weekdays.

Fairfield Adventure Park - Fairfield Have a look at the slides, long winding tunnels that seem to go in all directions, guaranteed to confuse you and give your kids a really good time. Just getting up to the start of the slides will be an adventure and real challenge for some kids.

# LetsGoKids

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# LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Play/Party PARKS

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Royal National Park 29kms from the CBD, it was established in 1879, and is the world’s first National Park. It has picnic and camping areas, surf beaches, walking tracks, swimming holes and water sports.

Warriewood Wetlands - Warriewood The Wetlands are a very special kind of environment, the water providing the ideal conditions for lots of birds, very special species of plants and of course amphibies and reptiles as well. More than 80 species of birds alone Pimelea Picnic Grounds - Abbotsbury have been recorded here. The access to the Natural playground, flying foxes, climbing walls, Warriewood Wetlands is easy these days thanks water play areas, tyre swings, BBQ’s and plenty of to a 2.4km long boardwalk which together with space to move. the surrounding streets of the neighbourhood connects to a full loop. There’s also an enclosed Georges River National Park A river habitat for native animals with picnic areas, playground and BBQ facilities, perfect! walking tracks and great views. Hunts Creek Reserve - Carlingford The Hunts Creek Reserve is a designated “Wildlife Sanctuary” located in north western Sydney between the suburbs of Carlingford and North Rocks. The bushwalk in the reserve is an easy one and can be enjoyed by the whole family. It has many shady spots, and being a wildlife sanctuary, you would also be able to spot many interesting birds including kookaburras and the colourful and fast-moving wrens. The best (and surprising) discovery on this walk is that you can also view a very beautiful waterfall along the journey! Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park 25kms from the city, but you would think you are miles away. Native bushland, gorges, rivers, picnic spots and Indigenous rock engravings.

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LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Play/Party

Coogee Beach - Eastern Suburbs On the spectacular coast, it is protected from big swells by the picturesque Wedding Cake Island, making it a popular beach for families. Wylieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bath is a famous pool at the southern end and is an excellent alternative if you have young children.

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Bronte Beach - Eastern Suburbs Its biggest drawcard is its sheltered position surrounded by parklands, perfect for a picnic in the shade, while the headlands seem to give this beach a bit of a secluded feel.

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Photo Courtesy of Destination NSW

Sydneysiders love their beaches and for kids, the beach is one of the best places for outdoor fun.

Murray Rose (Redleaf) Pool - Double Bay Stunning views, and is a great choice thanks to its generous shark net enclosure which makes it popular with young and old. Camp Cove - Watsons Bay A wave-free extremely toddler-friendly beach with shark net, picnic facilities and a very relaxing holiday feel. Older kids may want to jump off the pier or explore the underwater world with their snorkelling gear. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a huge playground with large sun sails that they kids will love. Nielsen Park - Vaucluse Great facilities, a restaurant and kiosk, fabulous views, picnic areas with lots of shade and glistering Shark Beach. If you are a visitor to Sydney, this beach is perfect if you want to combine the beach with some of the best views of the city.

Watch So, you’ve had enough playing and now it’s time to kick back, catch a movie, see a show or go along and cheer on one of our great New South Wales teams competing at the highest level.

Genea Netball Stadium - Train from Central Station and change at Strathfield for Sydney Olympic Park, then a 10 min walk to stadium.

We’ve put together the ultimate guide of what’s on, who’s who, when it’s happening, where to buy your tickets and how to get there (from Sydney CBD). So, kick back and relax OR stand up and cheer - It’s all here!

Qudos Bank Arena - Train from Central Station and change at Strathfield for Sydney Olympic Park, then a 10 min walk to stadium.

Sydney Thunder Women Date

Match

Time

Venue

10 Dec

vs. Mel Starst

6:15pm

North Sydney Oval

16 Dec 17 Dec 26 Dec 2 Jan 3 Jan 14 Jan

vs. Ade Strikers vs. Ade Strikers vs. Mel Renegades vs. Brisbane Heat vs. Brisbane Heat vs. Sydney 6er

2:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm 2:00pm 1:45pm

Howell Oval, Penrith Howell Oval, Penrith BISP, Rooty Hill BISP, Rooty Hill BISP, Rooty Hill SCG

LAUREN CHEATLE

Sydney Olympic Park - Train from Central Station and change at Strathfield for Sydney Olympic Park, then a 10 min walk to stadium.

SCG - train to Central Station, a bus to Anzac Parade and then a short 4 min walk. Sydney Football Stadium (Allianz) - train to Central Station, a bus and then a 7 min walk. Blue Sox Ball Park (Blacktown Sportspark)- train T1 to Rooty Hill Station and a 15 minute walk

Sydney Thunder Men Date

Match

Time

Venue

20 Dec

vs. Sydney 6er’s

7:40pm

Spotless Stadium

28 Dec 4 Jan 18 Jan 14 Jan

vs. Brisbane Heat vs. Melbourne Stars vs. Adelaide Strikers vs. Sydney 6er’s

7:10pm 7:10pm 7:40pm 6:10pm

Spotless Stadium Spotless Stadium Spotless Stadium SCG

USMAN KHAWAJA

Born November 6, 1998 Batting style Left-hand bat Bowling style Left-arm fast-medium

Born December 18, 1986, Islamabad, Pakistan Batting style Left-hand Bowling style Right-arm medium

From playing Under 10’s cricket in a boys side to making her debut for Australia, Bowral native Lauren Cheatle has come along way in a very short amount of time. She accomplished the feat of making her State, WBBL and Southern Stars debut all in the same season after bursting onto the scene in dramatic fashion taking 4/20 against Sixers in Penrith. The highly accomplished Netballer is finally shaking off the tag as the ‘next Ellyse Perry’ and was a crucial component in Thunder’s WBBL winning campaign taking 18-wickets during the competition. Returning to School just a day after she landed back in the country from the ICC World T20 in India, Cheatle is the daughter or former Sussex and Surrey cricketer Giles Cheatle. Her committed parents have spent the past few years driving her between Bowral and Sydney three times a week for training

After missing BBL04 due to a series knee injury, Khawaja was unstoppable at times in BBL05 and exciting things await this master blaster in BBL06. In just four matches Khawaja plundered 345 runs at an incredible average of 172.5 to finish just behind Chris Lynn in overall runs scored. While he smashed two centuries in his four innings, his most memorable knock came in the final as he guided the Thunder to victory with a 40 ball 70. His form brought a T20 international debut and a contract with the IPL side the Rising Pune Supergiants. The only member of Thunder’s squad from BBL01, Khawaja is the Club’s leading runscorer with 819-runs at an average of 51.18 from 21 matches.

Sydney Thunder

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

International duties could limit his game time for the Thunder during BBL06, but hey after last year we only really need him for four games.

Sydney Thunder

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LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

NAB AFL Auskick is a great way for kids to have fun, make friends and learn skills of Australian Football. Through weekly coaching sessions with our passionate coaches and coordinators, your child will be part of a great team, learning new skills and playing non-contact AFL games. PLUS each participant will receive an awesome benefits pack full of gear when they join!!

AFL is offering LetsGoKids readers an exclusive $20* discount on club Auskick registration.

TO REGISTER FOR NAB AFL AUSKICK FOLLOW THESE SIMPLE STEPS ONLINE: 1. Visit aflauskick.com.au 2. Enter your postcode in the centre locator 3. Select the centre you would like to attend 4. Complete the registration process 5. At checkout, enter promotional code AUSKICK2017 to receive $20* off registration

*visit aflnswact.com.au for T&C’s

Y, TY, OT OO FO EF IKE S LLIK IDS KID RK UR OU YO IF Y IF Colour me and share on Instagram using #AFLBounceKids

THE Y’LL LO VE

AFL Bounce is a FREE App, made just for kids. Learn about AFL in a fun & fresh way, with daily videos, GIFs, memes and much more.

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Watch Sydney FC Allianz Stadium

Netball Giants Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre

Date

Match

Time

26 Nov 30 Dec 14 Jan 20 Jan 9 Feb 3 Mar 10 Mar 1 Apr 15 Apr

vs. Adelaide United vs. Brisbane Roar vs. Western Sydney Wanderers vs. Adelaide United vs. Wellington Phoenix vs. Melbourne Victory vs. Central Coast Mariners vs. Melbourne City vs. Newcastle Jets

7:50pm 7:50pm 7:50pm 7:50pm 7:50pm 7:50pm 7:50pm 7:50pm 5:35pm

Western Sydney Wanderers Spotless Stadium Date

Match

Time

25 Nov 12 Feb 4 Mar 19 Mar 24 Mar

vs. Brisbane Roar vs. Central Coast Mariners vs. Adelaide United vs. Wellington Phoenix vs. Melbourne City

7:50pm 5:00pm 7:50pm 7:00pm 7:50pm

Sydney Sixers Men SCG 16/17 Date

Match

Time

23 Dec 27 Dec 9 Jan 14 Jan

vs. Hobart Hurricanes vs. Perth Scorchers vs. Melbourne Renegades vs. Sydney Thunder

7:40pm 7:10pm 7:40pm 6:10pm

JORDAN SILK Number: 14 DOB: 13/04/1992 Height: 187cms Position: Batter Clubs: Sydney Sixers, Tasmanian Tigers Throws: : right handed Bats: right handed Bio: ‘Silky’ grew up in NSW but plays his Domestic cricket with Tasmania after joining them for the 2012/13 season. The breakout star of last year’s Big Bash Tournament, Silk scored two rapid halfcenturies, including 69 from 43 balls against the Thunder to help engineer one of the most exciting victories in the club’s history. At just 16 years of age Silk scored a first-grade century for Penrith – making him the youngest centurion ever in Sydney Grade history. Aside from his solid batting, Silk was been labeled by Ricky Ponting as the best fielder in Australia, and two year’s running has attempted to break the internet with his incredible catching efforts.

Sydney Sixers 58

Date

Match

Time

Venue

18 Feb 1 Apr 19 May 25 Feb 23 Apr 27 May

vs. NSW Swifts vs. NSW Swists vs. QLD Firebirds vs. West Coast Freaver vs. Magpies Netball vs. Sunshine Coast Lightning

5.00pm 7:00pm 7:30pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm

SOPA SOPA SOPA Qudos Bank Arena Qudos Bank Arena Qudos Bank Arena

NSW Swifts Sydney Olympic Park Sports Centre Date

Match

Time

18 Feb 26 Mar 1 Apr 9 Apr 5 May

vs. GIANTS Netball vs. Magpies Netball vs. GIANTS Netball vs. Sunshine Coast Lightning vs. West Coast Fever

5.00pm 1:00pm 7:00pm 1:00pm 7:30pm

Sydney Sixers Women 16/17 Date

Match

Time

Venue

11 Dec 28 Dec 9 Jan 13 Jan 14 Jan 20 Jan 21 Jan

vs. Brisbane Heat vs. Sydney Thunder vs. Perth Scorchers vs. Hobart Hurricanes vs. Sydney Thunder vs. Melbourne Renegades vs. Melbourne Renegades

2:00pm 2:35pm 7:40pm 1:45pm 1:45pm 2.:30pm 2.30pm

North Sydney Oval Spotless Stadium SCG North Sydney Oval SCG North Sydney Oval North Sydney Oval

SARA MCGLASHAN Number: 28 DOB: 28/3/82 Height: 174cms Position: Batter Clubs: Auckland, Sydney Sixers Throws: Right handed Bats: Right handed Bio: Hailing from New Zealand, Sara has represented her National side in all three formats of the game as a hard hitting batter and wicketkeeper. She’s also been referred to in the past as the ‘Ellyse Perry’ of New Zealand due to her balancing act of playing elite level soccer and cricket. Her brother Peter McGlashan has also represented New Zealand in both ODI and T20 cricket. In February 2015 Sarah broke the record for the most ODI caps by a female cricketer after appearing in her 136th match. In a Domestic T20 game in January 2014 she smashed 131 from just 63 balls and in doing so, captured the record for the highest individual score, most sixes in an innings, fastest century and equal fastest half-century in women’s domestic T20 cricket.

Sydney Sixers LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

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LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Watch GWS Giants 2017 Home Fixture Round Date

Match

Venue

2 4 6 8 9 11 15 17 19 20 22

vs. Gold Coast Suns vs. Port Adelaide vs. Western Bulldogs vs. Collingwood vs. Richmond vs. Essendon vs. Geelong Cats vs. Sydney Swans vs. Fremantle vs. Melbourne vs. West Coast Eagles

SPO MO MO SPO SPO SPO SPO SPO SPO MO SPO

Apr 1 Apr 15 Apr 28 May 13 May 20 Jun 3 Jul 1 Jul 15 Jul 29 Aug 5 Aug 19

Sydney Swans 2017 Home Fixture Round

Date

Match

Venue

1 3 5 7 10 12 14 16 18 21 23

Mar 25 Apr 7 Apr 22 May 7 May 26 Jun 8 Jul 23 Jul 8 Jul 22 Aug 12 Aug 26

vs. Port Adelaide vs. Collingwood vs. GWS Giants vs. Brisbane Lions vs. Hawthorn vs. Western Bulldogs vs. Essendon vs. Gold Coast Suns vs. St Kilda vs. Fremantle vs. Carlton

SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG SCG

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Zac Shepherd Shirt: 24 DOB: 14/09/1995 Height: 191 cm Weight: 84 kg Position: Infielder Throws: Right handed Bats: Right handed Local Club: Baulkham Hills Baseball Club Overseas Club: Detroit Tigers Best Thing about being a Pro Baseball Player: you get to travel the world playing a sport you love. Bio: Zac shepherd is the Sydney Blue Sox youngest permanent starter as an infielder, having started his early career at the age of 17. In his first year with the Blue Sox, Zac hit .255 AVG with 16 RBIs (Runs Batted In) and 18 walks. Zac plays at a high level of baseball, as a valued member of the Detroit Tigers club. He has spent much of his young career playing in the USA Minor Leagues and this year played for the Lakelands Flying Tigers. Shepherd is a corner infielder for the Blue Sox and an important part of the batting line-up. During November 2016 Zac was also a member of the medal-winning Australian team at the Under 23 World Cup in Mexico!

Sydney Blue Sox

Wo t ’s O n We are calling the whole family - Kids, mums, dads, sisters, brothers, aunties, uncles, grandmas, grandpas - even you! Sydney, The Mountains and the South Coast are alive and happening all year round with family events and activities, shows, movies, concerts and sport. Don’t forget the old favourite - the weekend market!! There is enough to keep everyone entertained - AND best of all - most of them are FREE!!! To keep up to date with everything our advertisers have got going on, head to the “Wot’s On” button on our website at www.letsgokids.com.au and while you’re there, sign up for our great monthly e-newsletter and download our new app.

WEEKLY/MONTHLY Daily The Emperor’s Quest at Chinese Garden of Friendship The 12 animals of the Chinese lunar calendar are hidden in the Chinese Garden. Each one has its own character and a whole treasure chest of legends—and one of the animals is you. A new adventure for the whole family. 9.30am – 5pm daily, except Good Friday and Christmas Day. Chinese Garden of Friendship, southern end of Darling Harbour (02) 9240 8888 www.darlingharbour.com Daily

Fish Feeding at Chinese Garden of Friendship Join the garden’s horticulture team at 11.30am every day in the Lenient Jade Pavilion to feed the magnificent koi. Help the team attract the fish by clapping loudly, then share in the experience of feeding these colourful ‘living jewels’. The koi in the garden are descended from a type of black carp called ‘magoi’ and are fed three times a day with floating fish pellets (similar to tropical fish food). Family: $15 (two adults and two children) Chinese Garden Lenient Jade Pavilion Pier Street, Darling Harbour. (02) 9240 8888

Every Wednesday

Penrith Showground Markets - Penrith Penrith Markets are the biggest midweek markets in Sydney and go ahead rain, hail, or shine. Some of the market is undercover, but it is primarily outdoors. The market has between 250 - 300 stalls each week. Plants, fruit and vegetables, clothing, tools, craft supplies, pets, bric-a-brac and more. There is a dining room and kiosk with meals available on site. Plenty of free parking. Penrith Paceway Penrith, 02 4721 2375, www.clubpacewaypenrith.com/penrith-markets

Every Saturday

The Royal Botanic Garden, Chocolate Garden Kids will explore the Sweet Addiction chocolate exhibition inside Sydney’s newest attraction, The Calyx, to discover the journey of the bean from tree to taste-buds. They’ll learn about rainforest plants from the Amazon basin, and make their own delicious chocolate treat. Suitable for children 7 – 12 years. Includes all materials. 1 2pm & 1.30-2.30pm $15 per child Bookings essential online, www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

Monthly

Markets at Panthers Our Panthers markets are held on the 2nd Sunday of Every month in the carpark adjacent to Mecure Hotel of Panthers grounds. With over 50 stalls every month they have a huge variety of craft, folk art, clothing , amusements, hot food, fresh produce, art, toys, plants, baked goods, cold drinks, photography services, beauty, health, seasonal items, and more. Mulgoa road Penrith, 0410 660 060 www.facebook.com/marketsatpanthers

1st Sunday of Every Month (except January)

Wascoe Siding Passengers are invited to bring family and friends to picnic in the grounds and ride on the miniature trains. The train trip involves three laps of the park, including two laps through the tunnel, before returning to the station. Great day out for families with children. 10am till 4pm. Tickets $3.50 each,15 Grahame Street Blaxland, 02 4739 2677, www.facebook.com/WascoeSidingRailway

Second Thursday QEII Twilight Markets Listen to live music, shop 80 stall, pick-up gourmet foods or one-off pieces including arts and crafts. Buy of every month October to March something truly unique while supporting local traders and designers. The littlies are catered for at Albury City’s Creative Kids space where they can paint their own masterpiece to take home. 5.00pm - 8.00pm. Every Thursday

Gaia Farmers Market An abundance of local fresh, seasonal and sustainable produce At the Ulladulla Civic Centre grounds on the southern side of the Civic Centre, overlooking the harbour . If it rains go inside the Civic centre downstairs. 3pm, 04310888668

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Wo t ’s O n DECEMBER 9 - 23 Dec

Room on the Broom Broom returns to Sydney Opera House this summer with songs, laughs and scary fun from the team behind The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo’s Child. Standard ticket, $30, ww.sydneyoperahouse.com/

10 Dec

Egyptian Mummies: Exploring Ancient Lives uses the latest CT scanning technology to take you beyond the wrappings and coffins to discover what lies beneath. Six mummies selected from the British Museum collection who lived and died in Egypt between 1800 and 3000 years ago can be viewed at the Powerhouse Museum, alongside their 3D CT scan visualisations that unlock hidden secrets of mummification and provide a unique insight into the everyday lives of ancient Egyptians. 500 Harris Street Powerhouse Museum Ultimo, (02) 9217 0111

18 Dec

DanceWorks End Of Year Showcase Outstanding entertainment for the young and young at heart. Escape into the joyful Christmas Spectacular featuring the creative choreography unique to Nowra’s Leading Dance School performed by the talented and delightful students of DanceWorks by Amy Evison with guest appearances from Santa Claus & Frosty the Snowman.. 11am and 2.30pm, $29.00 & $34.00, Auditorium - 42 Bridge Rd, Nowra, 1300 788 503

13 & 20 Dec

Dance, Dance! The Wiggles Big Show! The Wiggles are celebrating their 25th birthday in the best possible way! To make sure audiences will be dancing, The Wiggles will play everyone’s favourite hits and new Wiggles songs like ‘Hot Potato’, ‘ Rock-a-Bye your Bear’, ‘Do the Propeller!’ and ‘Come On Down to Wiggle Town!’, Along with their Wiggly friends Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus and Captain Feathersword. Show Times – 10am and 1pm, Win Entertainment Centre.

DECEMBER 31 Dec

New Years Eve at Hunter Valley Gardens - Pokolbin Celebrate the start of 2017 with entertainment, amusement rides, fireworks display and the Christmas Lights Spectacular! Online tickets will be available soon and for more information visit the web site. www.huntervalleygardens.com.au/ 2090 Broke RoadPokolbin (02) 4998 4000

JANUARY 2017 7 Jan - 29 Jan

Sydney Festival - City Centre Sydney Festival presents the biggest and best of the world’s performing and visual arts, all coming together in an avalanche of artistic activity. From the central business district to Parramatta, Sydney Festival brings to life unique spaces including the Festival Village in Hyde Park, Sydney Town Hall and The Domain. www.sydneyfestival.org.au/info/ (+61) 2 8248 6500

21 January 2017

Mister Maker and the Shapes Packed full of arty adventures there’ll be a big ‘make’ to take part in, super songs to join in with, a fabulous supporting cast and not forgetting,The Shapes! 12pm and 3pm,Win Entertainment Centre,Wollongong

27 Jan12 Feb

Sydney Chinese New Year Festival In 2017, Sydney will be illuminated by giant Lunar Lanterns representing the animal signs of the zodiac. More than 1 million people will flock to 80 spectacular events making it one of the largest Lunar New Year celebrations outside China. There will be 80 family friendly events featuring music, performance and of course there will be a celebration of flavours and sights in Chinatown.

FEBRUARY 2017 4 Feb

Serbian Festival This family-friendly cultural event will be filled with foods galore to tantalise your taste buds and live cultural entertainment that everyone will enjoy. Activities will be spread out across Darling Harbour from Tumbalong Park to Palm Grove.The festival will showcase folk traditional dance performances and much more. For a list of the program see website. Free event, 10:00am–8:00pm www.serbianfestival.com.au/

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

Wo t ’s O n MARCH 2017 3 – 20 March 2017 Sculpture by the Sea The largest free to the public sculpture exhibitions in the world! Taking place along the beautiful new South Wales coast walk from Bondi to Tamarama beach. The exhibition regularly draws over 400,000 people. Come along and see the sculptures from more than 100 artists around the world. FREE event, sculpturebythesea.com/ 25 - 28 Mar

Easter Long Weekend Hunter Valley Gardens will be hosting a fantastic program of activities, entertainment and prizes over the Easter Long Weekend. During Easter Saturday & Sunday, join the Easter Bunny to search for lots of coloured eggs in our Giant Easter Egg Hunt. Every child will receive a gift of Easter chocolate at the completion of the hunt. For more information and to book your tickets online visit www.hvg.com.au, Hunter Valley Gardens - 2090 Broke Road Pokolbin, 0249984000

18 Mar

Holy Cross School Fete Great live entertainment, good food, white elephant stalls, pre-loved books, rides and amusements for the kids, craft stalls, face painting, chocolate wheels, cake stall, art exhibitions and raffles to win some fabulous prizes. All the money raised goes straight back into the school. Come along for a wonderful community day. Free event, 9:00am – 2:00pm Holy Cross School, 1 McMillan St, Helensburgh

APRIL 2017 13 - 17 April

Blues Festival Bluesfest presents over 200 performances with up to 7 stages over 5, 12 hour days, 5 licensed bars, over 100 food and market stalls, undercover food courts, beer gardens, and children’s entertainment. Byron Bay. Bluesfest now attracts an audience of over 100,000. It is regarded as the foremost destination festival in Australia & renowned for being a safe, fun, family-friendly event. Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm, www.bluesfest.com.au/ 02 66 858 310

6-19 April

Sydney Royal Easter Show Phe Sydney Royal Easter Show is a celebration of Australian culture, from our rural traditions to our modern day lifestyles, providing unique experiences for everyone. Every Easter, the country and city join together at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, for fourteen days of agricultural competitions, animal experiences, live entertainment, carnival fun, shopping and much more. www.eastershow.com.au/about-us, (02) 9704 1000

MAY 2017 May - June (dates to be announced)

Vivid Sydney A unique annual event of light, music and ideas, featuring an outdoor ‘gallery’ of extraordinary lighting sculptures, a cutting-edge contemporary music program, some of the world’s most important creative industry forums. What the city come to light with many great ideas. www.vividsydney.com

JUNE 2017 7 - 18 Jun

The Sydney Film Festival One of the world’s oldest film festivals, showcasing the best in cinema from across Australia and around the world, including features, documentaries, short films, retrospectives, restorations, animation and more.There is entertainment for all ages. www.sff.org.au,Ticketing Enquiries 1300 733 733

Daily

Snow Time in the Garden Gather your family and friends and experience an icy wonderland over three huge weeks, including the winter school holidays. Chill out on the giant ice skating rink, jump on the ice toboggan and build a snowman in the man-made Snow Play Zone! With fun activities like the HVG Super Slide, Arcade Alley, entertainment, warm beverages and hearty food,. 10.00am - 9.00pm daily. For more information and event date check the website a little closer to the date. www.hvg.com.au, 1300 733 733

AUGUST 2017 13 Aug

City2Surf The worlds largest run and Sydney’s favourite sporting event,The event sees 75,000 people pound the pavement of the city.The nine mile routes takes participants through the suburbs of King Cross, Rushcutters Bay, Double Bay, Rose Bay,Vaucluse, Dover Heights and Bondi Beach.. Allocation on a first-come-first-served basis. Or simply be a spectator city2surf.com.au, 1300 733 733

SEPTEMBER 2017 May - June (dates to be announced)

Woolgoolga CurryFest The Woolgoolga Curryfest is on again in September 2016 – a celebration of Woolgoolga’s unique Punjabi heritage, with over 100 stalls; curries from around the world, exotic spices, multicultural cuisine, Woolgoolga’s famous blueberries, mindfulness and meditation, music, dancing and cultural performances. Celebrated throughout the streets of CBD and in beachside reserve

LetsGoKids Sydney 2017

SYMBIO WILDLIFE