Winter school holiday fun

By Sheree Hoddinett 

Another two weeks of no school lunches or dragging kids out of their warm beds, yay! But once they finally emerge from their warm slumber, what else can you do to entertain them and keep winter school holiday boredom at bay? 

While I don’t have all the answers, I have some suggestions that might just take care of a few hours here and there these school holidays. And if anyone wants to entertain my kids, please feel free to take them off my hands! Haha, just kidding. 

Animal encounters  

If you haven’t been there yet, White Ridge Farm at Elimbah offers a hands-on experience with a variety of animals, including llamas, alpacas, pigs, donkeys, camels, chickens, ducks, goats and sheep. Many of these are rescue animals, providing an educational and heart-warming experience for visitors. The farm also features tractor rides, mini-golf and a sandpit with diggers, ensuring hours of fun for the whole family. Visit whiteridgefarm.com.au/ 

Outdoor fun 

Kids Dig It! is back these school holidays with Medieval Family Fun at the Abbey Museum. From Monday June 30 - Wednesday July 2, the kids can:  

• Practice archery; 

• Get crafty and design their own heraldic shield; 

• Uncover medieval artefacts in the Archaeological dig; 

• Learn about medieval weapons; and 

• Take part in craft activities, games and dress ups inside the museum. 

Check out all the info abbeymuseum.com.au/event/kids-dig-it-medieval-family-fun-at-the-museum/ 

Take the challenge 

For a unique educational outing, visit the Mathema Gallery at Ocean View. This free museum, housed in an octagonal building, showcases an extensive collection of mathematical memorabilia, including rare books and ancient calendars. It's an engaging way to combine learning with leisure during the holidays. Visit mathemagallery.com.au 

Stay close to home 

If you live on the mainland, cross the bridge to Bribie Island and start your day with breakfast at Annie Lane Café, known for its delightful pancakes, crepes, and colourful milkshakes that are sure to please the kids. After, why not visit the Bribie Island Butterfly House (open Wednesday and Sunday), where hundreds of vibrant butterflies’ flutter around in a lush environment. Wearing bright clothing increases the chances of a butterfly landing on you, creating perfect photo opportunities. See all the details www.bribieislandbutterflyhouse.org/  

Don't miss the chance to stop in at the Bribie Island Seaside Museum, which offers insights into the Island's history. For details visit www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Galleries-Museums/Locations/Seaside-Museum 

Be an Enviro Explorer  

Get ready for a wild adventure at Enviro Explorers, a free family-friendly event held at the Caboolture Region Environmental Education Centre (CREEC) Burpengary on Saturday July 12 (10am-2pm). Explore the wonders of nature with live shows, native wildlife exhibits and interactive displays where you can get up close to fascinating little critters. Kids will love the hands-on fun with free activities and workshops that will be on offer. Plus, there’s also the CREEC all abilities playground—featuring a wheelchair accessible play area, sensory walls, water play and more. See all the info whatsonmoretonbay.com/events/enviro-explorers 

All Aboard! These school holidays, set sail for a day of fun at Sandstone Point Hotel! Drop anchor and take a breather while the kids dive into a morning of hands-on activities at Little Skippers Kids Club on July 10. There will be a creative session where kids get to paint their very own ceramic pot, a chance to explore the grounds, making their own pizza and planting a treasure in their newly decorated pot, plus a ukulele singalong. Visit sandstonepointhotel.com.au/event/little-skippers-kids-club-2/ 

Indoor fun 

For rainy days or when you need to warm up indoors, head down to North Lakes for the day. There’s Zone Bowling and Timezone for arcade games, bowling and laser tag fun for all ages. Just around the corner, Event Cinemas North Lakes will be showing the latest kid-friendly movies throughout the school break - perfect for a cosy winter outing. 

Another must-do is check out your local library! There is so much to do at the library during school holidays! Discover performances, workshops, activities and more. Find out what’s on here - www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/libraries/Events/School-Holidays 

These activities are not only fun and family-friendly—they're also accessible and affordable, making them perfect for both day trips and spontaneous adventures and a chance to cure some boredom! So pack a jumper, grab the kids and get ready to explore all that our local area has to offer this winter! 

As always – check with businesses and other mentioned locations for times and other event details!