Adventure Awaits at Thunderbird Park

PHOTOS BY JACQUI FAULKNER | WORDS BY LUISA SLACK-SMITH

“Active kids are happy kids,” well that’s what my parents have always said and with 4 children to keep entertained on this particular day, their parenting advice was ringing true. Our modern lives have become particularly more demanding and yet we seem to be more stationary than ever. So, what better way to keep young bodies and minds active than a day out adventuring in the natural surrounds of Thunderbird Park.

This natural wonderland for families and children, is located along-side the Cedar Creek section of Tamborine National Park. This stunning parcel of land has been owned by Bob and Judi Minnikin for over 20 years and comprises of 114 beautiful hectares, with 1½ km of Cedar Creek running right through the middle. The forestry is made up of mature age eucalypt and subtropical rainforest. When you first arrive at the park, it becomes clear just how passionate Bob and Judi are about the standard they set. The staff are immensely friendly, and the facilities are immaculate. Judi takes pride in knowing her staff are attentive to each individual guest’s needs and that everyone leaves with a wonderful lasting impression.

TREETOP CHALLENGE

Our day begins at the Junior Tree Top Challenge course suitable for ages 3 – 7. My two girls aged 3 and 7 are first up to tackle this activity. Our youngest Gigi (3 years old) pushes her adventurous side surprising us all and making it to the upper third level. (This is not for the helicopter parent let me tell you). The facilities staff did an amazing job of encouraging the girls and keeping me relaxed as I watched my girls safely zipline through the course, each round getting higher and higher.

LAZER SKIRMISH

The boys then made their way to Laser Skirmish, dressed by the team in full camo gear. This was a dream come true for two 9 and 10-year-old boys. Rainforest setting, obstacles and hide outs, they were given the set of instructions and game rules. Needless to say, they worked up a sweat and burnt off some energy, dodging and running amongst other competitors - doing their best to win as a team of two.

FUNFAIR

The FunFair on Lake Waterlily is the new attraction at the park and the kids were delighted by the idea of heading to a water activity fully clothed. The jumping castle kept Gigi entertained as the older kids (with safety jackets on) made every effort to make it around the lake without catching up to one another on their paddle boats and peddle bikes. A great activity for those who might want to take it a little slower and soak up the surrounds.

Now for most parents, packing food for a day out can be half the hassle, however this brilliant old school style kiosk offers up fresh items likes fruit salads, scrumptious baguettes, salads, and the popular burgers, fries, pizzas and nuggets. With ice-creams in hand the girls kick back and enjoyed the break.

ADVENTURE MINI GOLF

The boys were quick to get back to it hitting the mini golf course – now running at about 70% energy and not quite full pace they set off with earlier in the day. Set amongst the backdrop of the Cedar Creek rainforest, the course is fun for all ages and will see you making some great putts for the memory book.

MINING

Our final activity for the day is the Thunderegg Fossicking and Crystal Mining. This activity was as informative as it was fun. Learning of how these beautiful crystals are formed, over millions of years right in the boulders and rocks that surround us…. A brilliant finish to a fun, interactive and memorable day out.

Looking to stay? The newly renovated on site accommodation at Cedar Creek Lodges - suits a range of people. From large families, to weddings and functions to corporate groups and romantic couple getaways. With camping grounds, hotel style accommodation, family sized lodges and self-contained rainforest creek lodges - there is something for everyone.

DINING

The Rainforest Restaurant is also a great spot, offering table service and a fabulous à la carte menu. The bar has cocktails and a pool table, for those who might need some down time after adventuring in the park with kids – book me in!

Thunderbird Park 639 Tamborine Mountain Road, Tamborine Mountain, QLD, 4272 (07) 5545 1468 | info@thunderbirdpark.com.au tbpark thunderbirdpark www.thunderbirdpark.com.au

Cedar Creek Lodges www.cedarcreeklodges.com.au | (07) 5545 1468 info@cedarcreeklodges.com.au cedarcreeklodges