Are you a family of Star Wars fans? Then “May the fourth be with you”! Find lots of fun and funky ways to celebrate Star Wars Day under the Things To Do#stayathome ideas tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/how-tocelebrate-star-wars-day
Online safety for kids is at the forefront of most parents’ minds. BUT – how do we keep up when everything in changing so quickly? Find out under the Health & Parenting – Family Health & Development tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/onlinesafety-for-kids
Honour Mum, or the mother figure in your life, with a spa, high tea, gift basket, picnic, handmade gift, or one of the many other Mother’s Day ideas you can find under the Holidays – Mother’s Day tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ brisbane/mothers-day/all
Attention isn’t just important for your child’s learning – it is critical. But some kids can’t pay attention. Find 40 ways to help under the Schools & Education –Special Needs Support tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ improving-your-childs-attention
The Gold Coast is a wonderful destination for family-friendly camping, with so much to see and do nearby. Check out our guide to the best Gold Coast Camping spots under the Holidays – Camping & Cabins tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/campinggold-coast
Brisbane walking trails are some of the best kept secrets in the city and surrounds. You don’t have to take the family far – check out the local info we’ve collected under the Things To Do – Free Things To Do tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ brisbane-walking-trails
Active birthday parties are a great option for kids on the go. Discover five reasons active birthday parties rock under the Parties – DIY Party Planning tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/activebirthday-parties
You don’t have to go far to find places that offer children adventure, activity, and fun – and they are free. Discover more at your local playground under the Things To Do – Parks and Playgrounds tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/benefitsof-play-at-your-local-playground
Does your child cause concern with their picky eating? Learn how to handle a kid who under eats under the Health & Parenting – Food & Nutrition tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/childwont-eat
This is a moreish twist on the classic Anzac bikkie, made using the original 1914 recipe. Learn how to make your own under the Holidays – ANZAC Day tab.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/anzacbiscuit-ice-cream-sandwich
Families Magazine has literally thousands of informative and entertaining articles on our website, and we bet you’ve only just scratched the surface of them! Go on a journey of discovery today and find out what’s under the tab!
I have a confession. I may have already told you this, however, like my children, you might have been in another room at the time. I am not the editor of Families Magazine; I am just a mouthy mother who knows the editors. Janine and Joanne are the shadow figures behind this enterprise, a helpful Illuminati who research, collate, and organise local content so you can access the best advice and services without the labour of a search engine. I mention this because many of your email requests and praise are addressed to me. Janine and Joanne give BIG MUM ENERGY with their selfless scheduling, planning and timely delivery of information while I take the credit (I’m my father’s daughter - that’s his signature move). Don’t worry, they aren’t even bothered. The combination of their unflagging competence and profound humility allows me to take advantage of this and reap the unfounded accolades I’ve always wanted but never been willing to work for. Thank you Joanne and Janine!
It’s likely you are one of those selfless personalities too: organising playdates, scheduling appointments, attending to family and friends, and preparing snacks and meals in perpetuity with little expectation of recognition or reward. So here is what I want you to do. Next time you go to the grocery shop, add $20 cash-out (it’s untraceable if you burn the receipt). Now take that cash and spend it on yourself. Or pop it in a secret pouch in your wallet and let it build up. Treat yourself to hot chips by the waterfront that haven’t been fingered by grimy toddler hands, or a monthly hour-long massage, or try a Rage Cage (honestly, you must).
Block some time in the calendar and turn the phone off, or at least shut down the phone tracking app for a bit. You are playing the role of morally dubious CEO of your own life - it’s important to be a bit shady. Embezzlement, unaccounted for whereabouts and selfishness are hallmarks of the Captains of Industry in society - adopt these highly successful habits!
Yours in illicit online purchasing and mid-week movie sessions without the kids,
Families Magazine, PO Box 1018, Brighton 4017 ☎ 0437 866 869 Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au
Families News
Find out about local news for families
Families Travel
Let’s go camping with the dog
Days Out
Places to go for kids who like...
Exploring Brisbane’s islands
Open Days
Pull-out-and-keep guide to School Open Days 2023
Parenting
Teaching kids what to do in an emergency
Families Fun
Circle the things you plan to do this autumn
Local Easter events
The Bribie Island bridge is an icon, but it’s also 60 years old, so plans are afoot to design and build a new bridge as part of the Palaszczuk Labor Government’s $29.7 billion transport and roads plan over the next four years, supporting 25,200 secure jobs for Queenslanders.
The new bridge will be four lanes to and from Bribie, and designed to improve conditions for all foot, bike and vehicle traffic. Developers will also work closely with wildlife specialists to ensure the design takes into consideration the local pelican population and other wildlife.
The concept design will be presented for further community comment in 2023.
For more information, visit www.tmr.qld.gov.au and search ‘Bribie Island Bridge planning’.
Autumn’s escape from the heat is always worth celebrating, but did you know our Autumn months are filled with special days? Mark your calendar and get ready to celebrate the little (and BIG) things in life on these extra-special days in March, April and May. We promise you, these are all genuine events!
March 8 – International Women’s Day
March 17 – Take a Nap Day
March 20 – International Day of Happiness
March 23 – National Puppy Day
March 30 – Take a Walk in the Park Day
April 3 - World Party Day
April 12 - International Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day
April 16 - Wear Pyjamas to Work Day
April 22 - Jelly Bean Day
April 30 - Honesty Day
May 4 - Star Wars Day
May 9 - Lost Sock Memorial Day
May 11 - Eat What You Want Day
May 14 - Mother’s Day
May 19 - Pizza Party Day
Looking for things to do with the kids over the Easter school holidays? We’ve taken the hard work out of searching for budget-friendly activities for your family, from days out, to treats, gifts, crafts and Easter recipes.
Find your inspiration at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/brisbane/easter or check out page 31 for local Easter events.
Do you know someone who is suffering because of alcoholism? Al-Anon and Alateen can help families and friends of alcoholics recover from the effects of living with someone whose drinking is a problem. Alateen groups are sponsored by Al-Anon members and provide support for teenagers affected by the problem drinking of a parent or other family member.
The program of recovery is adapted from Alcoholics Anonymous and is based on the Twelve Steps, the Twelve Traditions, and the Twelve Concepts of Service. The only requirement for membership is that there be a problem of alcoholism in a relative or friend. Al-Anon/Alateen is not affiliated with any other organisation or outside entity. Find out more at al-anon.org.au
NOT
BY ALCOHOL IS AN ALCOHOLIC
Families and friends are suffering too.
Do you worry about how much someone else drinks?
Al-Anon and Alateen can help
1300 252 666 al-anon.org.au
Recent school leavers and Queenslanders looking to upskill or change careers are being encouraged to enrol in one of the 37,000 Fee-Free TAFE places available in 2023. Fee-Free courses are available across a number of sectors and services to help resolve skills shortages, and provide a great opportunity to create a pathway to your dream career. Courses include business, childcare, community services, information technology, disability support, cyber security, accounting and bookkeeping, and a range of exciting vocational subjects.
Fee-Free TAFE in Queensland in 2023 is being delivered by TAFE Queensland and the Central Queensland University. For further information on courses available and how to enrol, go to www.familiesmagazine.com.au/fee-freetafe-courses-qld
The cost of kindy is a huge barrier for many working families, but more Queensland children are set to benefit from reduced price – and even free – kindy thanks to a $1 billion investment from the Queensland Government. Find out more at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ kindysavings-for-qld-families
Is it really a getaway without the dogs? After all, they’re a part of the family too! And luckily for Brisbane families there are plenty of dog-friendly camping sites within a couple of hours’ drive of the city. Whether you’re eager for a bush retreat or a beach-side escape, there’s a camping ground to suit everyone – you just need to know where to look.
Here are 13 of the best dog-friendly local campgrounds that the pups will love.
The Neurum Creek Bush Retreat is located about 1.5 hours north of Brisbane, with the grounds offering pet-friendly camping. Families can come along and enjoy plenty of exciting activities, including biking, canoeing, and heaps of other activities.
268 Rasmussen Road, Neurum QLD 4514 www.ncbr.com.au
The Esk Caravan Park is another worthy spot around Brisbane for pet-friendly camping. The park is surrounded by a range of walking trails for you to enjoy with the pups. There’s even a dog wash available, as well as a veterinary practice in the Main Street just in case – what’s not to love? There’s plenty of pet-friendly accommodation options, including cabins, motel accommodation, and more. Though there are a few pet policies to be aware of: pets must be approved by management and there is a maximum of 2 pets per caravan site.
16 Hassall Street, Esk QLD 4312 www.eskcaravanpark.com.au
The Gordon Country Campgrounds are very welcoming of dogs, though dogs are not allowed in the glamping tents, cabins, or on any furniture on the decks, and vaccinations must be up to date.
1847-2081 Inverramsay Road, Goomburra QLD 4362 www.gordoncountry.com.au
Dog-friendly camping is also permitted at the Goomburra Valley Campgrounds, with open and off-lead areas that the pups will surely love. A bond is charged for families with dogs and is returned upon your departure. When visiting the grounds, be sure to bring along your dog’s vaccination certificates.
2013 Inverramsay Rd, Goomburra QLD 4362 www.goomburravalleycampground.com.au
Also located on North Stradbroke Island is Flinders Beach, with pet-friendly camping at 12 beachfront camping spots to choose between. Located nearby are plenty of attractions to keep guests entertained throughout their stay, including bushwalking, fishing, whale watching (seasonal), wildlife interactions, and surf beaches. Toilets are also located at the camping grounds. Flinders Beach can only be accessed via 4WD.
North Stradbroke Island QLD 4183
www.minjerribahcamping.com.au/location/5-flinders-beach
Dog-friendly camping is available at Bigriggen Park, though some terms and conditions apply. There are plenty of facilities and activities to make your stay more comfortable, including toilets, showers, powered sites, swimming, fishing, cycling, fire pits, wildlife, walking trails, and heaps more.
196 Bigriggan Road, QLD 4287
www.bigriggen.com.au
The Yarraman Caravan Park offers dog-friendly camping at management’s discretion and with certain conditions including that pets can’t be left unattended in the grounds. Luckily there are plenty of walking trails nearby, though bear in mind that dogs are not permitted within Queensland National Parks.
12121 D’Aguilar Highway, Yarraman QLD 4614 www.yarramancp.com.au
The Queen Mary Falls Caravan Park is located on the edge of the NSW border, with a wide range of activities and facilities available to make a visit comfortable. There are powered and unpowered caravan and camping sites, and a park kitchen with wood heater, gas BBQ, fridge, microwave and stove. Activities include twilight native animal walks, bushwalking, 4 wheel driving and hand-feeding native birds.
676 Spring Creek Road, Killarney QLD 4373 queenmaryfallscaravanpark.com.au
Located in Kenilworth, only 50 minutes from the Sunshine Coast, is the Bluff Creek Campground – another great pet-friendly option for those looking for dog-friendly camping on the Sunshine Coast. The camping grounds are packed with plenty of exciting activities to entertain everyone, including mountain biking, horse riding, swimming, canoeing, markets, and more.
44 Wilcox Road, Kenilworth QLD 4574 www.kenilworthcampgrounds.com
North Stradbroke Island is home to a handful of dog-friendly campgrounds, including the Main Beach Camping Grounds. The grounds are dog-friendly and have 15 designated areas to choose from. Nearby, visitors can enjoy bushwalking, whale watching (seasonal, May to September), fishing, and more. Main Beach Camping Grounds are 4WD access only.
Alfred Martin Way, North Stradbroke Island QLD 4183
www.minjerribahcamping.com.au/ location/6-main-beach
For those looking for dog-friendly camping on the Sunshine Coast, the Golden Beach Holiday Park is ideal. The park allows pets though they are not permitted inside the park’s accommodation, pool, BBQ, or amenities area. The Golden Beach Holiday Park has plenty of facilities to make a visit very comfortable, including a BBQ area, camp kitchen, laundry, and kiosk.
9 Onslow Street, Golden Beach QLD 4551 www.goldenbeachholidaypark.com.au
Located in Upper Lockyer is Murphy’s Creek Escape, where families can enjoy a getaway from the city with their dogs. The grounds offer bush camping and adventure activities. Some of the activities families can enjoy include swimming, hiking, mountain biking, archery, bird watching, and abseiling.
356 Thomas Road, Upper Lockyer QLD 4352
www.murphyscreekescape.com.au
Kenilworth Camping offers dog-friendly camping with the condition that they are controlled and don’t roam. The grounds are located upon a scenic dairy farm with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. This includes swimming, kayaking, and bike riding – or you can just sit back with your furry friends and soak in the serenity. Dairy Tours are also coming soon – which will involve feeding baby calves and offering visitors a glimpse into the milk production process.
18 Paulger Road, Kenilworth QLD 4574
www.kenilworthcamping.net.au
• Before you set off, check out the pet rules for each campground. Most require you to keep your dog leashed or restrained at all times while on the property, and it is common courtesy to make sure all your dog’s droppings are disposed of.
• Make sure your dog’s vaccinations, worm, flea and tick treatments are up to date. You may need to show the vaccination certificate at some sites.
• Take shampoo – your dog is probably going to enjoy getting dirty!
• Invest in a collapsible water bowl or other portable water vessel to take with you on hikes.
• Take plenty of poo bags, spare lead, chew toys, stout tethering pole and a source of shade to set up your dog’s area at your camp site.
• Have fun! Camping with your dog makes some of the best memories, and is a perfect way to reinforce care and responsibility of pet ownership with your children.
You can find more dog friendly camping spots in the full online article here: www.getoutwithkids.com.au/dog-friendly-camping-qld
Do your kids ask to see more butterflies, or learn more about them? We are here to help you out! Find out where to see butterflies around Brisbane and beyond in our comprehensive list including butterfly houses, butterfly sanctuaries and butterfly museums in Brisbane and further afield.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/where -to-see-butterflies-around-brisbane
TIP: Turn to the story on page 10 to discover an island butterfly house!
Are your kids the ultimate train fans? We’ve got some brilliant Brisbane day trip ideas for kids who love trains! Brisbane and its surrounding areas are teeming with railway history and unique train rides that are sure to delight locomotive lovers of any age. See our huge list of the best places to see steam trains, model trains, and day trips from Brisbane for train lovers. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/kids-who-love-trains
TIP: See our Families Fun pages for details on:
• Bracken Ridge Lion’s Train Day
• Planes, Trains and Autos at Ipswich
Is your house the home of Brisbane’s biggest bird fan? Are your kids more often found looking up into trees rather than down at screens? From bin chickens and ducks, to rosellas, waders, and shy songbirds, we’ve compiled a list of cool places for Brisbane kids who love birds. All of our recommendations can be found in the greater Brisbane area but if you’re willing to travel as the crow flies, there are always more spots to be found.
Be amazed, engaged and excited about learning about the role our feathered friends play in our ecosystem alongside your children. Shake a tail feather and read our guide to the best locations to spot Brisbane’s beautiful birds!
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/placesin-brisbane-to-take-kids-who-love-birds
Does your child dream of becoming an astronaut? Are they fascinated by planets, stars, or even aliens?
In Brisbane we are lucky enough to have a Planetarium dedicated to space inspiration and education, and playgrounds themed with rocket ships where imaginations can run wild!
We’ve compiled a list of cool places that do outer space for kids really well in Brisbane and surrounds. Some of these amazing activities are quite close to home but some will require blasting off on a day trip .
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/placesto-take-kids-who-love-outer-space
TIP: Got a Star Wars fan?
Give your Star Wars viewing a whole new dimension when Queensland Symphony Orchestra plays the soundtrack LIVE to the movie.
See our Families Fun pages for details.
Children are fascinated by many things!
If you have a kid with an insatiable obsession or curiosity, feed their appetite with these great venues in and around Brisbane.Scan the QR code to see the full articles on our website for kids who like . . .
Everyone can agree that one of the best things to do as a child is climb trees. From scaling massive tree trunks and swinging on its branches to looking down at the park below, it’s easy to understand why it is such a popular hobby among children of all ages.
Brisbane has some beautiful parks and beachside locations filled with giant figs and other sturdy trees suitable for climbing. The trees had an extra element to the playground fun, and a shady space for a picnic.
Want to give your kids a chance to scale some of the best climbing trees in Brisbane?
Scan this QR code for the seven of the best places in Brisbane to climb trees.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/bestclimbing-trees-brisbane
Brisbane and the coasts play host to a captain’s bounty worth of pirate places for kids, with themed playgrounds where you can even host your very own pirate party. Let your kids’ imaginations run wild as they sail their boats, look through telescopes to shout ‘land ahoy’ and make treacherous traitors walk the plank!
We’ve compiled a list of cool places for pirates… err.. we mean for kids in Brisbane who love pirates! Some of these spots are quite close to home but some will require adventurous day trip travel. Set sail and explore these amazing places with your little hearties!
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/placestake-kids-love-pirates-brisbane
Are the little people in your house budding palaeontologists? Always finding yourself playing Jurassic Park in the sandpit? There are lots of places in Brisbane for kids who love dinosaurs. See dinosaur skeletons, dig for real dinosaur fossils, and interact with dinosaur modelssome of these amazing venues are quite close to home but some will require adventurous travel!
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ places-take-kids-who-love-dinosaurs
TIP: Don’t miss the Dinosaurs of Patagonia exhibit at Queensland Museum from March 17. Details are on the back cover!
There might not be fairies at the bottom of your garden, but there are definitely places to find fairies in Brisbane! From enchanted forests to a hide and seek of fairy doors and houses, we’ve compiled a list of places to find fairy magic.
Get ready to be a kid again as the wonderment and magic of fairydust is sprinkled throughout your life (and possibly your car). Wiggle your nose, tap your toes and away we go!
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/ brisbane-fairies-for-kids
A visit to a Brisbane discovery centre makes a great day out for the family. We have lots of local discovery centres in and around Brisbane to choose from, offering experiences from animal encounters, interactive displays and nature play, to bushwalks and wildlife discovery – and a whole lot more!
Entry is usually free or low cost. Often there are experts and volunteers on hand to answer your questions or act as your guide, and cafés, picnic areas and playgrounds to help you extend your stay.
If you haven’t discovered Discovery Centres yet, what are you waiting for? Start your journey of discovery at one of these Families Magazine recommended centres and discover what you’ve been missing!
Tip: Discovery Centres often have special activities and events during school holidays. Check with each centre to see what’s on!
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/discoverdiscovery-centres
The islands around Brisbane are a great place to have a beach holiday or day trip. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, catch a ferry or charter a boat and enjoy the serenity of one of the many beautiful islands off Brisbane.
Moreton Bay consists of around 360 islands. Many are tiny nature reserves, but some are family havens with plenty to occupy the kids. The big islands have heaps to offer families visiting for the day, or staying a little longer.
Moreton Island is probably the most famous of the islands near Brisbane. It’s the third largest sand dune island in the world and a protected national park. There are no sealed roads on Moreton Island, so a 4WD is essential if you are planning to take a car over to journey around the island.
On the leeward side of Moreton Island, Tangalooma is a resort that offers a wealth of tours and activities all year round. A visit to Tangalooma can make an awesome day out or a fantastic family holiday with memories to cherish forever.
Getting there: 75 minutes by ferry from Holt Street Wharf, Pinkenba.
Check out the detailed review of our Tangalooma visit on our website.
Accommodation: Resort and camping
Things to do:
• guided tours
• quad bike trails
• sand tobogganing
• scuba diving
• seasonal whale watching cruise
North Stradbroke Island is the second largest sand island in the world, and it has something for everyone in the family. From crystal lakes, towering lookouts, cliff-side journeys and secluded beaches to fascinating wildlife, a captivating cultural side, and a friendly community, ‘Straddie’ delivers on every level.
If you’re looking for a fairly relaxed getaway, make your way to the island’s social hub, Point Lookout, to enjoy relaxing spas, delicious eateries, beautiful views, and pristine beaches. Or take the kids down to Dunwich to explore lush bushland and fresh lakes, keeping an eye out for the island’s diverse bird and wildlife.
Bribie Island is the easiest to access as it has a bridge connecting it to the mainland. It might be the smallest and most northerly of three major sand islands in Moreton Bay, but it is packed with family friendly activities.
The bridge side of the island has sheltered beaches, but if you want surf, take the 10-minute trip over to the ocean side.
Whilst there, be sure to visit the wonderful volunteer-run Butterfly House, open Wednesdays and Sundays. There’s a video review on our website.
• Segway on the beach
• snorkel the wrecks
• watercraft
• wild dolphin feeding
• HEAPS more!
Getting there: 45 minutes by ferry from Cleveland
Accommodation: Hotels, holiday homes, camping
Things to do:
• lots of beaches
• bush and coastal walks
• lake swimming
• museum and guided tours
• seasonal whale watching
• Quandamooka Festival June to August
• watercraft
Getting there: Drive right on over – it’s a 90-minute drive from Brisbane CBD.
Accommodation: Hotels, holiday homes, camping
Things to do:
• beach fun
• watercraft
• museum
• fishing
• surfing
• National Park hiking
• 4WD-ing
• visitor centre
Russell Island is the largest of the South Moreton Bay islands at approximately 8km long by 3km wide. It lies between the mainland and North Stradbroke Island.
This beautiful island was first settled by Europeans in 1866 when it became a major supplier of fruit and vegetables to the Brisbane market, and supplied Australia with oysters from its many oyster farms.
St Helena Island is a heritage-listed island originally used as a prison. It is now a national park and popular tourist attraction.
The history of St Helena Island encompasses a century and a half of European settlement and thousands of years of Aboriginal use.
The southern corner of the island is open to the public without a tour guide, and private boats may be moored offshore. The rest of the island, including the prison ruins, is a restricted access area and entry is by guided tour only. The tours are a great family experience, with tour hosts in period costume and picnics provided. For the brave, there are even night-time ghost tours!
St Helena is a perfect day trip for families with kids. Whether you’re a history buff or just interested in visiting a stunning national park, St Helena provides an unforgettable day out.
Getting there: 45 minutes by regular ferry services, departing from Manly and New Farm.
Accommodation: None; day trip only
Things to do:
• prison and history tour
• ghost tour
• national park
At just 4kms off Cleveland, Peel Island is one of the closest Brisbane islands to visit. With a history of being a quarantine station as well as a leper colony, it was declared Teerk Roo Ra National Park and Conservation Park in 2007.
Getting there: Only accessible by private boat or charter
Accommodation: Camping by arrangement
Things to do:
• visit the shipwreck in Platypus Bay
• wildlife spotting
Getting there: Russell Island is a 15-minute express water taxi ride from Redland Bay, or you can get aboard the Bay Island Ferry for a more leisurely “around the world” trip, stopping at Macleay, Karragarra, and Lamb Island.
Accommodation: Holiday homes and camping
Things to do:
• cycling,
• swim at the jetty,
• swim at the school pool (it is open to public)
• play in the Pioneer Children’s Memorial playground
• fishing, birdwatching, wildlife spotting
• enjoy their cafes, coffee shops and bakery
• grab fish and chips and eat them on the beach
Macleay Island is the second largest of the southern Moreton group of islands. This secluded secret is fast becoming a growing residential hotspot in the Redlands area! With just over 3, 500 people, Macleay Island has everything you could ask for – it’s almost like a cute little country town on the water!
Getting there: Passenger ferry and vehicle barges from Redland Bay
Accommodation: Holiday homes and camping
Things to do:
You don’t need to have your own boat to get out amongst the “little” islands in Moreton Bay. The southern end of Moreton Bay is home to many islands with ferry links and water taxi access. You can even treat yourself to a mini-cruise on the island-hopping ferry from Redland Bay!
Karragarra Island, between Russell and Macleay islands, is a great day-trip destination with a family-safe beach and netted enclosure. This is the smallest of the southern islands, approximately 500m wide and 2km long, and is a top spot for picnics.
The island has sandy beaches and a protected swimming area near the jetty with barbecues, picnic tables and shady trees, as well as public amenities and a playground.
Everything here is within easy walking distance, which means there is virtually no traffic. This is a great place to chill and escape the rat race, and inter-island transport is free!
Getting there: Passenger ferry and vehicle barges from Redland Bay
Accommodation: Holiday homes and camping
Things to do:
• beach with netted swimming enclosure
• picnic spots and BBQs • community garden • public tennis court
Coochie, as the locals affectionately call it, is a perfect day trip destination. The jetty is on the sheltered mainland side where visitors swim, paddle, kayak, and play on Main Beach.
A walk across the island to the northern Morwong Beach offers waves big enough for body boarding, whereas Norfolk Beach to the east is a peaceful sub-tropical paradise. There is a shop, take away, and resort on the island, and regular markets are held near Main Beach.
Every July, locals and residents re-enact the landing of Matthew Flinders, who stepped ashore Coochiemudlo Island in 1799. The day is celebrated with market stalls, a parade, and children’s activities.
Getting there: Short ferry ride from Victoria Point. A car barge also services the island.
Accommodation: Resort, holiday homes, holiday apartments
Things to do:
• watercraft for hire
• nine-hole golf course
• three beaches
• wildlife and wetlands
Beautiful Lamb Island is a true retreat. It’s small, but easily accessible from the mainland. A little Southern Moreton Bay Island bus service takes you from the ferry terminal around the island, although everything is in walking distance if you prefer to stroll.
Getting there: Passenger ferry and vehicle barges from Redland Bay
Accommodation: Private holiday lets
Things to do:
• recreation club with tennis court
• parks and playgrounds
• beach
You can use your Translink Go-Card on many of the ferries to the southern Moreton Bay islands, and if you are looking for cheap weekend things to do with the family, kids travel FOR FREE on public transport (including ferries and City Cats) all weekend long! Woohoo!
Read the full article, with links and reviews at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/best-islands-nearbrisbane-for-kids
All Hallows School (Fortitude Valley) Catholic Girls’ Yr 5-12
Open Day: Sun 28 May 11am-2pm. www.ahs.qld.edu.au
Anglican Church Grammar School (East Brisbane) Anglican Boys’ Reception-Yr 12
Open Day: Wed 3 May 10am-1pm. Personal tours by request. www.churchie.com.au
Australian Trade College (Scarborough) Co-ed Yr 11-12
Information and Campus Tours: Tue 16 May 6pm-8:30pm, Tue
24 Oct pm 6-8:30pm. tradecollege.com.au/enrolment/information-evening
Brigidine College (Indooroopilly) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7–12
Open Days: Sun 23 Apr 10am-1pm, Mon 17 Jul 9:30-11am, Tue 10 Oct 3:30-5:30pm. College tours can be booked, hosted by the College Registrar. brigidine.qld.edu.au
Brisbane Adventist College (Mansfield) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12 College tours can be booked on their website. www.bac.qld.edu.au
Brisbane Christian College (Salisbury) Indep Co-ed Pre-Prep-Yr 12 Personal college tours can be booked. brisbanechristiancollege.com.au/enrolments/book-a-tour
Brisbane Girls Grammar School (Brisbane)
Indep Girls’ Yr 7-12
Open Day: Fri 28 Jul 4pm-8pm. College tours can be booked on the school’s website. bggs.qld.edu.au
Brisbane Grammar School (Brisbane) Indep Boys’ Yr 5-12
Open Day: Sat 6 May. Organised tours throughout the year. www.brisbanegrammar.com
Cannon Hill Anglican College (Cannon Hill) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Open Day: Sat 3 Jun. www.chac.qld.edu.au
Canterbury College (Waterford) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12
Personal tours can be booked on the school website. www.canterbury.qld.edu.au
Clairvaux MacKillop College (Upper Mt Gravatt) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12 College Tours: Fri 28 Apr 9-10:30am, Fri 16 Jun 9-10:30am, Wed 19 Jul 9-10:30am, Wed 6 Sep 9-10:30am. www.cvxmck.edu.au
Clayfield College (Clayfield) Indep Co-ed Pre-prep-Yr 6, Girls’ Pre-prep-Yr 12
Pre-Prep and Prep School Tours: Fri 5 May 9am, Wed 11 Oct 9am. Primary School Tours: Fri 28 Jul 9am. Secondary School Tours: Fri 10 Mar 9am, Thu 4 May 9am, Thu 20 Jul 9am, Fri 20 Oct 9am. www.clayfield.qld.edu.au
Faith Lutheran College (Redlands) Indep Co-ed Kindy-Yr 12
Genesis Christian College (Bray Park) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Junior School Principal’s Tour: Thu 16 Feb 9am – 10am, Fri 12 May 9am – 10:30am (Victoria Point). Secondary School Principal’s Tour: Thu 23 Feb 4:30pm – 5:30pm, Thu 18 May 4pm – 5:30pm. faithlutheran.qld.edu.au
Discovery Tours | Prep 2025 & Beyond: 8 Mar, 9 Aug, 8 Nov, all 9am–10:30am. College Open Morning (P-12): 24 May 9am–11am, Virtual Tour | What makes Prep at Genesis distinctive?: 7 Jun 12pm–1pm, Virtual Tour | What makes Secondary school at Genesis distinctive?: 17 Aug 3pm–4pm, Secondary Principal’s Tour: Yr 7 2025 & Beyond: 11 Oct 9am–10:30am. www.genesis.qld.edu.au
Grace Lutheran College (Caboolture) Co-ed Secondary College Yr 7-12
Personal college tours can be booked on their website. www.glc.qld.edu.au
Grace Lutheran College (Rothwell) Co-ed Secondary College Yr 7-12
Personal college tours can be booked on their website. www.glc.qld.edu.au
Hillbrook Anglican School (Enoggera) Indep Co-ed Yr 7-12
Open Day: Thu 18 May 1:15-3:10pm. www.hillbrook.qld.edu.au
IES College (Spring Hill) Indep, Co-ed senior high school Yr 10, 11 & 12. Individual tours can be booked on the school website. www.iescollege.com
Iona College (Lindum) Catholic Boys’ College Yr 5-12
Open Day: Mon 29 May. Personal college tours can be booked. www.iona.qld.edu.au
Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School (Ipswich) Indep Girls’ Kindy-Yr 12
Open Day: Sat 11 March. iggs.qld.edu.au
Ipswich Grammar School (Ipswich) Indep Boys’ Prep-Yr 12
Open Day: Thu 25 May. www.ipswichgrammar.com
Ipswich Junior Grammar School (Ipswich) Indep Co-ed Kindy-Yr 6
Open Day: Sat 11 March. www.juniorgrammar.com.au
John Paul College (Daisy Hill)
Co-ed Early Years-Yr 12
Kimberley College (Carbrook)
Indep Co-ed Prep - Yr 12
Primary Open Mornings: Tue 14 Feb 9am, Thu 5 Oct 9.30am.
Secondary Open Mornings: Tue 28 Feb 9am, Tue 10 Oct 9am.
Secondary Open House: Wed 19 Apr 3.30pm, Primary Open Morning & Barefoot in the Park (Kindy to Year 2): Fri 19 May 9am, Open Morning: Wed 16 Aug 9am. www.jpc.qld.edu.au
Open Day: Sat 18 Mar 9.30am - 12, School Tours: Wed 19 Apr 9.15am - 10.30am, Mon 15 May 4pm - 5pm. Places are limited and bookings essential for all events. Visit the school website to reserve your families spot today.
www.kimberley.college
Lourdes Hill College (Hawthorne) Catholic Girls’ School Yr 7-12
Open Day: Fri 6 Oct 3:30pm. www.lhc.qld.edu.au
Marist College (Ashgrove)
Catholic Day & Boarding Boys College Yr 5–12
College Tours: Fri 10 Mar, Sun 7 May, Fri 21 Jul, Fri 21 Oct. www.marash.qld.edu.au/enrolments/book-a-tour
Mary MacKillop College (Nundah) Catholic Girl’s Yr 7-12
Open Evening: Tue 16 May. Enrolment Information Evening: 15 Aug. Guided Tours are also scheduled throughout the year. www.mmc.qld.edu.au
Moreton Bay Boys’ College (Manly West) Indep Boys’ College Pre-Prep-Yr 12
Open Day: Wed 8 Mar. Kindergarten Open Morning: Sat 11 Mar. Prep Open Morning: Sat 18 Mar. www.mbbc.qld.edu.au
Moreton Bay College (Wynnum West) Indep Girls’ Pre-Prep - Yr 12
Primary Principal’s Tour: Wed 10 May. Secondary Principal’s Tours: Wed 24 May. Kindergarten Open Morning: Sat 11 Mar. Prep
Open Morning: Sat 11 Mar. www.mbc.qld.edu.au
Mount Alvernia College (Kedron) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12
Open Day: Sun 21 May. Principal Tours: Fri 18 Aug 9-10:30am, Fri 6 Oct 9-10:30am. Personal tours can be booked on the school’s website. www.mta.qld.edu.au
Mt Maria College (Mitchelton)
Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12
Mt Maria College (Petrie) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12
Mueller College (Rothwell) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Open Day: Thu 11 May 3.30pm – 6.00pm. www.trybooking.com/CDTKR
Online Enrolment Information Evening: Wed 8 Mar 6.30pm. Online Open Day: Tues 25 Jul 6.30pm. Principal Tours: 9.45am Tuesdays fortnightly. Register at www.JTA.link/MMCP
Everyday is Open Day at Mueller. Book a tour on their website. www.mueller.qld.edu.au
Music Industry College (Fortitude Valley) Indep Co-ed Music College Yr 11-12
Open Day: Sat 17 Jun 10am-12pm. mic.org.au
Northpine Christian College (Dakabin) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12
Group Tour Dates: Thu 27 Apr, Tue 6 Jun, Wed 2 Aug, Thu 31 Aug, Tue 10 Oct, Thu 9 Nov. www.northpine.qld.edu.au
Northside Christian College (Everton Park) Indep Co-ed Kindy–Yr 12
Ormiston College (Ormiston) Indep, co-ed, nondenominational Christian ELC, Prep-Yr 12
Open Morning: Tue 7 Mar 9:15am. Secondary School Tour: Tue 25 Jul 9am. Junior School Tour: Tue 5 Sep 9am. www.northside.qld.edu.au
Headmaster’s Tours are hosted throughout the year. View the event calendar and register for a tour at www.ormistoncollege.com.au/bookatour
Our Lady’s College (Annerley) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12
College Tours: Thu 30 Mar, 27 Apr, 25 May, 22 Jun. www.ourladyscollege.qld.edu.au
Padua College (Kedron) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12
Open Day: Sun 21 May 10am-1pm. www.padua.qld.edu.au
Queensland Academies (Kelvin Grove, Gold Coast) Indep Co-ed Yr 10-12
Open Day: Sat 20 May 10am-3pm. qaci.eq.edu.au
Redeemer Lutheran College (Rochedale) Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Personal or small group tours can be booked every Monday or Wednesday, from 9am. www.redeemer.com.au
Redlands College (Wellington Point) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Open Day: Wed 28 Jul. Principals Tour: Thu 18 May, Thu 24 Aug, Thu 19 Oct. redlands.qld.edu.au
San Sisto College (Carina) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12
Open Day: Sun 21 May 1-4pm. College Tours: Thu 30 Mar, Thu 6 May, Fri 28 Jul, Thu 14 Sep, Fri 20 Oct, all from 9-10:30am. www.sansisto.qld.edu.au
Sheldon College (Sheldon) Indep Co-ed Kindy-Yr 12
Campus Tours: Sat 11 Mar 8:30-11am. www.sheldoncollege.com
Somerville House (South Brisbane) Indep Co-ed Pre-Prep & Girls’ Prep-Yr 12 with Boarding Yr 6-12. Personal tours can be booked on the school’s website. www.somerville.qld.edu.au/events/somertours
Southern Cross Catholic College (Scarborough) Catholic Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School (Corinda) Prep-Yr 12
College Open Day: Sun 21 May 10am - 1pm. Seconday Head of Campus Tour: 9 Mar, 1 Jun, 24 Aug, 26 Oct all 9am - 10.30am.
Primary Open Days: Scarborough - Fri 5 May, Kippa Ring 16 May, & Woody Point 19 May all 9-10am. www.sccc.qld.edu.au
Open Morning: Thu 2 Mar 8.45am – 11am. Open Day: Wed 7 Jun 8:45am-1pm. www.staidans.qld.edu.au
St Edmund’s College (Ipswich) Catholic Boys’ Yr 7-12 College Tours: Wed 8 Mar, Wed 11 Oct. Personal tours can also be booked on the college website. www.sec.qld.edu.au
St Eugene College Catholic (Burpengary) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12 School Tours: Every Monday from the beginning of February to the end of October. www.steugene.qld.edu.au
St James College Catholic (Brisbane) Co-ed Yr 7-12
St John Fisher College (Bracken Ridge) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12
St John’s Anglican College (Forest Lake) Indep Co-ed Kindy-Yr 12
Open Day: Fri 26 May. Enrolment Information Evenings: Mon 6 Mar, 12 Jul, 14, Aug, 9 Oct commencing 6pm. Register at: www.JTA.link/SJC
Open Day: Tue 23 May 3:30pm-5:30pm. School tours are held on the first Friday of each month whilst school is in session. www.sjfc.qld.edu.au
Open Days: Middle and Senior School: Thu 2 Mar, Thu 7 Sep. Kindergarten: Sat 4 Mar, Sat 12 Aug, all 9am-11am. School tours throughout the year. www.stjohnsanglicancollege.com.au
St. Joseph’s College, Gregory Terrace (Spring Hill) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12
Open Day: Tue 16 May. www.terrace.qld.edu.au
St Joseph’s Nudgee College (Boondall) Catholic Boys’ Day & Boarding Yr 5-12
Open Day: Saturday 20 May. nudgee.com/openday
St Laurence’s College (South Brisbane) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12
Open Day: Thu 27 Jul, Virtual Open Day: Thu 9 Feb. www.slc.qld.edu.au
St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School (Ascot) Indep Girls’ Pre-Prep-Yr 12, Girls’ Boarding Yr 5-12; Co-ed Pre-Prep and Prep
Open Day: Sat 4 Mar 9:30am-12:30pm.
Open Morning: Thu 17 Aug 8-11am.
www.stmargarets.qld.edu.au/admissions/open-day-2023
St Mary’s College (Woodend) Catholic Girls’ Yr 7-12
Open Evening: Mon 13 Mar 4pm. Personal tours can be booked on the school’s website. stmarys.qld.edu.au
St Patricks College (Shorncliffe)
Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12
Open Day: Tue 30 May 3-6pm. www.stpatricks.qld.edu.au
St Peter Claver College (Riverview) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12
Open Day: 28 May 2023 10am-1pm. www.spcc.qld.edu.au
St Peters Lutheran College (Indooroopilly)
Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Open Day: Sat 11 Mar 10am-2pm. www.stpeters.qld.edu.au
St Peters Lutheran College (Springfield) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Twilight Tours: Wed 15 Mar. Individual tours can be booked on the school’s website. www.stpeters.qld.edu.au
St Thomas More College (Sunnybank) Catholic Co-ed Yr 7-12
Open Day: Wed 22 Mar. stmc.qld.edu.au
Stuartholme School (Toowong) Catholic Girls’ School Yr 7-12
Open Day: Sat 11 Mar 10am – 1pm. College Tours: Fri 5 May, Mon 14 Aug. Personal college tours can be booked on the school’s website. www.stuartholme.com
The Lakes College (North Lakes) Indep Co-ed Prep-Yr 12
Open Mornings: Sat 4 Mar 9-11am, Wed 10 May 9-10:30am. Twilight Open: Wednesday 25 Oct. Personal college tours can be booked on the school’s website. www.thelakes.qld.edu.au/enrolments/tours
The Springfield Anglican College (Springfield) Indep Co-ed Anglican Kindy-Yr 12
Kindergarten Open House: Sat 20 May 9-10am, Sat 20 May 1011am. Primary Campus Tour: Wed 8 Mar 9:15-10:15, Wed 24 May 9:15-10:15. Secondary Open Evening: Fri 17 Mar 4-5pm, Fri 17 Mar 5-6pm. tsac.qld.edu.au/enrolment/visitthecollege
Villanova College (Coorparoo) Catholic Boys’ Yr 5-12
See website for details. www.vnc.qld.edu.au
If you would like a listing for your club, class or activity in our next issue’s inclusive directory, contact us now! Email: Editor@FamiliesMagazine.com.au
Cool down this summer at IceWorld Olympic Ice Rinks –the coolest place to be in the School Holidays! Skate hire is included and there’s a fully stocked café on site.
Online bookings Essential!
www.iceworld.com.au
Learn to play golf for kids at Victoria Park with their school holiday kids golf activities. Their classes are fun and interactive for kids aged 4–14, no experience required. Play exciting games, learn great sports skills, all while making new friends.
www. victoriapark.com.au/whats-on/ school-holiday-kids-golf-clinics/
Hapkido is the complete selfdefence martial art, offering classes from 3.5 years to adult. Classes are fun and reinforce discipline and respect for self and others. Come and join us for a 4-WEEK FREE TRIAL at our purpose-built Redland Bay facility.
0413 327 283 www.hapkidoqld.com.au
Enjoy active indoor family fun in this airconditioned arena full of trampolines! You will find foam pits, under-10’s area, Slam Time basketball hoop, and running walls for the pro trampolinist! Chill out in the café while the kids flip out. Parties, classes, and group booking available. Don’t forget to book! (Conditions of entry apply). flipout.com.au/strathpine
Aqualogan Laurie Laurence Swim School offers world-leading teaching methods proven over 50 years. FREE swim assessments for all learn-toswim levels. School holiday swim clinics, squads, adaptives and private lessons.
Beenleigh 2803 4102; Logan North 3541 6151 www.loganleisurecentres.com.au/aquatics
Looking for an escape room for kids or teens as well as for birthday parties and special celebrations? Send the kids to one of several themed rooms at Fox in a Box! It’s the best family fun ever!
3815 9825
www.foxinaboxbrisbane.com
Brisbane Arts Theatre is a Registered Training Organisation, offering a wide selection of unaccredited workshops, and courses with nationally recognised accreditation. We offer workshops for people of all ages, and from all walks of life, representing the diversity of the community engaging with us.
https://mailchi.mp/artstheatre/course-guide
Prep - Year 6 Academic and Creative Class • Academic Focus: English/Maths/General Science
• Creative Focus: S.T.E.A.M., Dance, Coding, Lego, Art • Weekday Academic with homework assistance • Weekend Academic Intensive / whole day class. Prep - Year 12. One to one/ two class.
Sunnybank 07 3189 4766 / 0414 001 439 info@cheerscc.com.au
The home of Boppin’ Babies offers weekly music classes for children of all ages, from babies and toddlers to pre-prep and kindy groups for young kids. We provide a special time each week for you and your child to experience the magic of making music together.
1800 752 968 www.musicbeat.com.au
Do your kids know what to do in an emergency?
From turning off the water supply to calling 000, these are the skills we hope your child never need to use, but are useful to know.
An emergency is a serious situation that requires immediate attention. Some emergencies are scary, and some are exciting, but all are best helped when you DON’T PANIC!
The first thing any child needs to do in an emergency is take a deep breath to calm themselves, and look to see if there is a way they can assist. If it is a big dangerous emergency, they need to MAKE
FIRST (and others if possible) and call for back-up.
Talk to your children about different kinds of emergency. BIG emergencies, where life or property are in danger, require a specialist response from emergency services. Smaller emergencies, like missing the bus, forgetting your key to get in after school, or an injury that requires first aid but no ambulance, can be helped by a relative or trusted neighbour.
Most children are familiar with phones but they may not know what to do if the only available mobile phone is locked. Squeezing the buttons on both sides of an Apple phone simultaneously will bring up the emergency screen. From here, your child can choose to slide the SOS button to call triple 0, or rapidly squeeze five times to dial automatically.
On Android phones, slide to unlock, and tap the word “emergency” on the screen to bring up the keypad to dial 000. (Your child’s phone may be different, but instructions can be found online for most makes and models).
When the operator answers:
Tell the operator there is an emergency
Say your name and where you are (the exact address if you know it)
Answer the operator’s questions in as much detail as you can
Follow all of the operator’s instructions carefully
Stay on the line until the operator says it’s OK to hang up Use role play to practice making an emergency call and knowing what to say, but don’t dial 000 unless you really need their services!
Call 000 for Police, Fire, Ambulance
You can set up a “favourites” shortcut for important numbers in your phone (if you’re not sure how, a quick Google will help). Important numbers to have in your child’s favourite list can include: close relatives
trusted neighbours (it’s worth getting to know them!)
parents’ work numbers
While you’re adding these numbers to your child’s phone, go into the Settings and add your own (and other first contacts’) number under Emergency Contacts/Emergency SOS. Emergency services know how to access these and will be able to contact you if your child is the one requiring assistance.
DIY mishaps or maintenance issues can require quick action to minimise damage.
As our children become teenagers they are more likely to be home alone. It’s important that they know what to do in a household emergency to prevent coming home to an even bigger mess than usual!
Burst pipes in walls, ceilings and floors can do a lot of damage in a very short time. Show your child where to find the stopcock and how to turn it off.
For most houses, the external stopcock is located next to the water meter near your front boundary line. In apartments, it could be located under a sink. If you don’t know where yours is, it’s better to find it now rather than when you desperately need to!
Sinks, toilets, and appliances like washing machines and dishwashers have their own stopcocks, or “water inlet valves”. These control water supply to the individual item and may be in the form of a lever (horizontal to the pipe is “open” and 90-degrees to the pipe is “closed”), or a tap.
Take a look under your sinks and on the pipes behind your toilet to familiarise your child with their location, and practice turning them on and off. Some can be really tough to turn. If you’re confident your teen can be handy, introduce them to the tools that might help with grip and torque, like a wrench or pliers.
We would never recommend a child undertakes any action that involves live electrical current, but if they are home alone when the power goes out, there are some things they can do.
• Locate the emergency lighting. Battery powered lamps are the preferred choice over candles and are not too expensive. We’ve even brought the garden solar lights indoors when caught unprepared for a power cut.
• Unplug any sensitive electrical items (that aren’t plugged into a surge-protector board) to prevent damage when the power comes back on.
• Snack from the pantry, not the fridge. Frequently opening the fridge door will cause the internal temperature to rise and spoil the food quicker.
• If the garage is your emergency exit, automatic roller doors can be switched to manual by pulling the cord under the motor (or see your motor’s user manual for instructions if there is no cord), allowing the door to be lifted by hand. This is especially important to know if your power goes out due to a fire.
• Leave a light on so that you will instantly know when the power is back on.
Sometimes a power cut is caused by a tripped switch. You know your child best; judge for yourself if you think they are capable of accessing the switch box to flip the tripped switch. If not, refer them to the favourite helpers call list you prepared earlier!
There are many potential emergency situations that you could prepare your child for. This article doesn’t cover them all, but it’s a good place to start.
Prepare your child for other emergencies in our full article online at www.familiesmagazine.com.au/kids-emergency-actions
To promote your local family friendly event including school fetes and fairs, community groups, get-togethers and local festivals send your entry via email to Natalie –Listings@FamiliesMagazine.com.au
Listings in this section are FREE for most non-commercial ventures. Please check the details of events listed before setting off in case anything has changed since going to print.
St Patrick’s Day Parade Held amidst the streets of Brisbane City for more than 30 years, this important event for the Irish community floods the Brisbane CBD with a colourful convoy of more than 40 floats and displays providing free community-oriented entertainment for all ages. Botanic Gardens.
11 Mar.
The Sound Society Relax and listen to live music for FREE at The Sound Society, once a month at Roma Street Parkland, Brisbane’s biggest sub-tropical backyard. To satisfy your lunchtime cravings, The Garden Room Café will be creating picnic hampers, specially curated for the event. You can also pack your own picnic and bring your pup to this dogfriendly event. 5 Mar, 2 Apr, 7 May, 4 Jun.
Making Place: 100 Views of Brisbane We are at a crucial point in Brisbane’s urban development, with extreme changes to the city predicted over the next decade. Making Place presents more than 100 historical and contemporary depictions of the Brisbane region. Become immersed in a newly commissioned sound artwork by Lawrence English, Site Listening: Brisbane, that captures the city’s many soundscapes and surround yourself in the textures and nuance of Jenna Lee’s installation, Growing Place, illustrating her insightful reflection on ‘place’. Until 30 Jul 2023.
Clock Tower Tours Discover the hidden secrets of your heritage-listed City Hall building with a guided tour of Brisbane’s iconic Clock Tower. The tour includes a ride in one of Brisbane’s oldest working cage lifts, a look behind Australia’s largest analogue clock faces and time to explore the observation platform that shares a unique perspective of our city. See if you can catch a glimpse of the bells! Bookings recommended. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ museum-of-brisbane
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ roma-street-parkland
Anzac Day Parade The parade will be held on Adelaide Street, between George Street and Creek Street, from 9:45am to 12:30pm and will feature former and current ADF veterans and other groups that contribute to the Parade that make it the commemoration worthy of its heritage. Adelaide Street. 25 Apr. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/whats-on/ category/brisbane
Brisbane Cycling Festival Australia’s largest multi-disciplinary cycling event returns over four big weeks delivering an actionpacked month of events, races, rides, expo’s and more. Ride for fun with friends and family in the Tour de Brisbane or challenge yourself on fully closed roads. Then kick back in the Festival Village post ride with free entertainment, Active Lifestyle Expo, food trucks and more. 15 Mar-16 Apr.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ brisbane-showgrounds
Play Moves This exhibition celebrates our senses and invites people of all ages and abilities to play. Weave, move and play your way through a series of interactive art experiences that come alive when you engage with them. From high sensory experiences to low sensory journeys, this exhibition allows you to tailor your own adventure to suit your family’s needs. Until 16 Apr.
Air Featuring beautiful and breathtaking moments, ‘Air’ is anchored by an expansive canopy of gently moving, giant air-filled spheres, from artist Tomás Saraceno in his most ambitious works to date. Presented across the entire ground floor of GOMA, the exhibition is a journey through this invisible, ethereal and vital element, reflecting on awareness of our shared atmosphere as life-giving, potentially dangerous and rapidly warming. Bookings required. Until 23 Apr.
(Girramay/Yidinyji/Kuku Yalanji peoples), Gordon Hookey (Waanyi people) and Vincent Namatjira (Western Aranda people) – who use their voices and their art to empower Aboriginal people and create inspirational imagery for all children. Together, the artists have created an immersive world full of cheeky humour and courageous characters for young visitors to explore. Until 16 Jul. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-gallery-of-modern-art
Dinosaurs of Patagonia Calling all budding palaeontologists! The world’s largest dinosaur is stampeding into Queensland Museum. This perfect family day trip features 16 dinosaur skeletons ranging from the size of a pet dog to the length of a Boeing 747 and various real fossils from prehistoric giants that lived in South America throughout the Jurassic, Triassic and Cretaceous periods. Bookings recommended. 17 Mar - 2 Oct.
The Snow Queen Based on the well-known classic fairy tale of Hans Christian Andersen, The Snow Queen, is a beautiful ballet that portrays the heart-warming story of the young Gerda and her struggle against an evil and icy foe. Enjoy a magical experience delighting in the beauty and splendour of stunning sets, costumes, music and icy magic lighting. This performance is suitable and enjoyable for all ages. Tickets essential. 1 Apr.
Brisbane Disability Connection Expo Are you a participant, carer, or family member looking to understand how to navigate the NDIS? More than 240 providers as well as a tailored NDIS Q&A Concierge service will be on hand to help you navigate the complexities of the NDIS, answer questions, and help you understand your plan. This FREE Expo aims to take the frustration out of exhaustive searches for the right services. 3 - 4 Mar.
Queensland Symphony Orchestra presents Star Wars: The Force Awakens in Concert Fans of the Star Wars saga and its iconic musical scores are invited on a journey from Jakku to Starkiller Base with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. While you watch on the big screen, live music from the legendary John Williams will accompany the story of Rey, a lonely scavenger who finds herself at the centre of a galactic conflict. Don’t miss this epic live movie experience. Bookings essential. 22 Apr.
World Science Festival Brisbane This incredible STEM event returns with more than 130 events and activities on offer that will inspire, delight and entertain. Families can unlock the mysteries of ancient medical practices and the dinosaurs that once roamed the earth; launch into the wonders of space and the great unknown beyond our solar system and dive into the science of the First Australians and how it can influence our future. Bookings for some events required.
22-26 Mar.
SparkLab Ignite your imagination in SparkLab, an interactive science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) space, ideal for 6 to 13 year olds! Explore 40 interactive exhibits across three zones and discover the wonder of STEM in your everyday world! See live experiments at the Science Bar and get hands-on to create and solve challenges at the Maker Space. You will need to buy a ticket to enter SparkLab and we recommend booking ahead online to avoid disappointment. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ queensland-museum
R.O.F.L (Rolling On The Floor Laughing)
Featuring an incontinent cow named Mooranda, a burpershop quartet, an audience-based tea towel alien attack, lullabies of doom, a panoply of puns, possibly too many Aldi gags and more… this is a mustsee for 2023! Join The Listies for an hour of unparalleled raucous family entertainment that will captivate anyone aged 4 to 400 and stay back after the show for a special meet and greet opportunity. Bookings required.
28 Mar – 5 Apr.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show One of the most read and famous children’s books of all time, The Very Hungry Caterpillar emerges from the page and onto the stage in a masterful theatrical experience for children 18 months+ and their adults. Created by Jonathan Rockefeller, the production features a menagerie of over 75 magical puppets, including the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar – and an Australian cast who bring these beloved books to life. Alongside The Very Hungry Caterpillar, the show features three other Eric Carle stories
– Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?, Ten Little Rubber Ducks, and The Very Busy Spider. New readers ,first-time theatre-goers, and those who grew up with these books will delight in experiencing one of the most popular children’s books ever written. Don’t miss out!
***** “A triumph!” Time Out
“A magical, visual feast.” Australian Stage “A charmingly delicious show.” Stage Whispers
“We rate it five smiles!” Newsday Playhouse, QPAC. 5 – 9 Apr.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza featuring over 70 songs including many of the iconic hits from the movie, as well as additions from Adele, Katy Perry, Sia, Beyonce, Rihanna and more. Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a theatrical celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom, and –above all – Love. Bookings required. Bookings required. 16 May – 16 Jul.
Queensland Symphony Orchestra Cinematic – Blockbusters and Beyond Cinematic is back in 2023 with its biggest line-up ever of film music from the screen, as well as some epic classical music which has underscored great movie moments. From sci-fi to fantasy, rom-coms to animation, Williams to Zimmer, there will be something for all ages. This show grows in popularity every year, so don’t miss out on your chance to join the fun. Bookings essential. 26-27 May.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/qpac
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ brisbane-convention-exhibition-centre
Imaginaria Located next to the Queensland Maritime Museum, Imaginaria allows people of all ages to enjoy the different installations at your own pace. Immerse yourself in shimmering light sculptures and architectural inflatables. Enter the interactive cave or the multi-dimensional light maze. Step inside a giant infinity bubble or pass through a black hole hovering in space. Until 30 Apr.
Kids Collective Create memories with your mini and enjoy a peachy morning out for FREE at South Bank Parklands’ Kids Collective program. Kids can burn energy at a sport session on South Bank’s pristine lawns, indulge in a contemplative spot of crafting, unleash their inner maestro at music classes and much more. Kids Collective is held every Thursday. Until 25 May.
Medibank Feel Good Program Spring into this FREE outdoor fitness series returning to South Bank Parklands and Brisbane City. See the class timetable for more details on the many family friendly sessions. 1 Mar – 31 May.
Curiocity From the end of March to the beginning of April, Curiocity Brisbane will showcase 14 creations intersecting arts, science and technology over 12 immersive days for curious minds of all ages. From an earthly Trojan horse and singing seesaws, to autonomous systems creating cat-opias and cybernetic habitats, the Curiocity Brisbane artworks will transform Brisbane into a captivating wonderland for families.
22 Mar - 2 Apr.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/venue/ south-bank
Until 12 Mar Wind Tubes | Ipswich See your creation take flight, soar to the ceiling and defy gravity by hovering high overhead at Wind Tubes, an exciting FREE exhibition. Make a flying creation out of everyday materials and launch it into large, clear vertical tubes of moving air. Can your design overcome turbulence, drag, air resistance and gravity? There’s ample opportunity to experiment and modify your design, and possibly set the record for the longest flight time. Ipswich Art Gallery. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/wind-tubes-ipswich
Thu 9 Mar Cirque Mother Africa | Ipswich The heartbeat of Africa pulsates throughout this jaw-dropping show as the musicians and artists transport audience members to the breath-taking continent of Africa. This 90-minute entertainment extravaganza combines the very best talent from nine African countries including Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya and Tanzania to provide the wonder, suspense and joy that is Cirque Mother Africa. Bookings essential. Ipswich Civic Centre.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/cirque-mother-africa-ipswich
Fri 10 - Sun 12 Mar Sunflower Festival | Kalbar Prepare yourself to be immersed in one million sunflowers at this picturesque three-day event tucked away in the stunning scenic rim. Walk amongst the sunflowers, find your way through the amazing 4-acre sunflower maze, enjoy live entertainment including Carissa the Bubble Princess and you can even pick your own bunch of sunflowers or plant a sunflower. Bookings essential! Kalbar Sunflowers.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/sunshine-sunflowerfestival-kalbar
Until 31 Mar Aqua Warrior | Clontarf Experience Brisbane newest Aqua Park with more obstacles and an extended swimming enclosure to make it bigger and better than before. A variety of obstacles and slides are connected together to form circuits allowing you to choose a different path each time. Bookings recommended. Pelican Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/aqua-warrior-redcliffe
Until 15 Apr The Wind in the Willows | Petrie Follow the exploits of the famous English gentlemen, Mr. Toad of Toad Hall as he falls from grace only to reclaim his home and title with gusto. Share your love of the theatre with your kids at this family-first production! Brisbane Arts Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-wind-in-thewillows-petrie
Until 23 Apr The Patch | Redcliffe Visit the Patch in the Imaginarium where you can plant your own pretend veggie patch, harvest fruits, create wildflowers and explore the backyard cubby. Start conversations about the natural world and encourage young minds to develop an appreciation of their environment. Who knows - they may become little green thumbs themselves! Redcliffe Museum.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-patch-redcliffe
Thu 2 - Sat 11 Mar From Little Things | Hamilton Get ready to be amazed by the brand-new show “From Little Things…” presented by Flipside Circus and Casus Creations! This performance is a celebration of the art of circus and the passing of skills from one generation to another. Brace yourself for a stunning show of strength, balance, and coordination from these talented performers. Bookings required. Brisbane Circus Centre. http://www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/from-little-things
Sat 11 Mar Wamuran Family Fun Day Gather your family and friends for a relaxed afternoon with great food, kids’ activities, and live entertainment. Bring your picnic blanket and enjoy delicious food and drink offerings from a variety of local food stalls. This is a FREE community event, filled with lots of fun and entertainment for the whole family! Wamuran State School.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/wamuran-family-fun-day
Sat 11 Mar A Night at the Museum: Stargazing Experience a space themed Night at the Museum with exclusive after-hours access to the Museum, along with a range of other fun activities for the whole family. Families can gaze at the stars via telescope while learning about what you see in the night sky, connect live with the Australian Space Discovery Centre space communicators and take your photo with an astronaut! Bookings essential. The Workshops Rail Museum.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/a-night-at-the-museumstargazing-ipswich
Sat 11 Mar Sweet Escape Dessert Pop Up Market | Virginia
Do you have a sweet tooth? Enjoy being tempted by all things delicious? Find a selection of sweet and tasty pop up food trucks and stalls, along with a FREE face-painter, and a jumping castle for the kids. There’s also a kids playground on site, and the venue is pet friendly, making this a great family night out for all! VEND Market Place.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/sweet-escape-dessertpop-up-market-virginia
Sat 11 Mar Freestyle Kings Tour | Boondall Get ready for the greatest show on two wheels! This choreographed 2-hour show featuring double backflips, front flip’s, fire breathers, music, pyrotechnics and so much more will have you sitting on the edge of your seat. See daredevil superstar Robbie Maddison, his 12year old son Kruz, and the Freestyle Kings FMX team, led by world champions Pat Bowden, Rob Adelberg and Ryan “R Willy” Williams. Bookings recommended. Brisbane Entertainment Centre.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/freestyle-kings-tourboondall
Sun 12 Mar Moreton Kids Festival | Strathpine Kids, get ready to PLAY and explore five huge worlds of fun. After purchasing an entry ticket, families will be treated to free unlimited rides, live stage shows, kids activities, workshops, wildlife encounters, educational displays, innovative technology, food trucks, market stalls, and so much more. Tickets on sale now. Pine Rivers Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/moreton-kids-festival
Thu 16 Mar A Bee Story | Kingston Bee Story is a uniquely Australian physical theatre show for children and families incorporating a kaleidoscope of circus, acrobatics, dance and live
music. It tells the story of Queen Bee and Worker Bee who must work together to rebuild their hive after being destroyed by a bushfire. But things never quite go to plan…Bookings required. Kingston Butter Factory Cultural Precinct.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/a-bee-story
Sat 18 Mar Music in the Park | Griffin Take in everything that the Moreton Bay Region has to offer and enjoy this FREE family friendly community event. See performances by local musicians while you sit back, relax and experience the sounds of live music and local entertainment. There will be plenty available with some great food trucks on hand, as well as the community BBQ ready to sell a few sausage sizzle sandwiches. Ultramarine Parade.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/music-in-the-park-griffin
Sat 18 Mar Big Little Fish Family Rave | Fortitude Valley Hot off the heels of the Halloween sell out at The Triffid, comes another 2-4 hour rave for little people with a feel good factor, music from the 90’s and 00’s, a drink or two, some big and little eats, crafting and smiles all round. Bookings essential. The Triffid. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/big-little-fish-family-rave
Sat 18 Mar Sunshine Coast Chilli Festival | Palmview Get ready for a spicy day of fun! Sign up on the day for a chilli eating competition, or just head along for a good laugh. Meet the makers of the best Aussie artisan chilli sauces and learn how their products can add some extra spice to your entertaining. Stock up on unique products like tandoori jerky, chilli lime peanuts, spicy kangaroo salami, and more for your Sunday picnics. Tickets on sale now. Aussie World.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/sunshine-coast-chilli-festival Sat 18 Mar – Fri 21 Apr Disney’s High School Musical | Petrie Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life on the Brisbane Arts Theatre stage! Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with vs of first love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. Bookings required. Brisbane Arts Theatre.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/disneys-high-schoolmusical-petrie
Fri 24 Mar BMX Freestyle National and Oceania Championships
| Carrara If your kids love all things BMX they are going to love seeing the world’s best BMX stars battle it out on the Gold Coast. Be sure to check out this world-class event where elite men’s and women’s titles will be awarded across a one-day competition. Gold Coast Sports Precinct.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bmx-freestyle-nationaland-oceania-championships
Sun 19 Mar Heritage and Harmony Fiesta | Cleveland Celebrate the richness and diversity of multicultural life in the Redlands at this FREE community event. Experience the fun and excitement of this exhilarating event featuring multicultural dancers, entertainers, vintage vehicles, workshops, a magic show, facepainting and more. Redland Museum.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/heritage-and-harmonyfiesta
Thu 30 Mar Teddy Bears Picnic | Murrumba Downs Get ready to sing, dance and listen to stories at this jam-packed morning of family friendly entertainment perfect for kids under 5. Keep the little ones busy with live stage entertainment, kids craft activities and workshops. Mums and dads can browse the market stalls and grab a bite to eat from local food trucks. Don’t forget your teddy and join in the parade! John Oxley Reserve.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/teddy-bears-picnicmurrumba-downs
Sat 1 Apr Eco Markets | Capalaba Spend the morning wandering through the botanic garden market lane to explore the range of unique stalls and sustainable products plus fresh produce available from the creative market community. Grab a coffee or a bite to eat at the IndigiCafé or try the fantastic fare from the food vans, while children are engaged in free craft and nature activities. Spend the rest of the morning relaxing in the shade of the trees, listening to beautiful live and local music on the outdoor stage, introduced by Ranger Stacey. Indigiscapes. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/eco-markets-capalaba
Sat 1 – Tue 4 Apr
The Snail and the Whale | Brisbane
Join an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world, inspired by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s much-loved picture book. This is a heartwarming adventure for everyone aged four and up, from CDP Kids, the team who brought you ‘The Gruffalo’ and ‘Room on the Broom’ live on stage. Bookings required. QUT Gardens Theatre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-snail-and-the-whalebrisbane
Sat 1 - Thu 6 Apr Hello! We’re The Wiggles in Concert | Across Brisbane Following the runaway success of 2022, including winning the coveted ARIA Award for ‘Best Australian Live Act’, The Wiggles are bringing their all-singing, all-dancing hit stage show to a Brisbane venue near you! Anthony, Tsehay, Simon, Lachy, Caterina, Lucia, & John will be joined on stage by all your favourite characters including Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus, Shirley Shawn the Unicorn and Bok the Hand Puppet! Bookings required. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/hello-were-the-wiggles
Fri 31 Mar – Sun 2 Apr Eco Creative Festival | Maleny This 3-day festival showcases creatives who work sustainably, naturally, recycling, remaking, growing and any other practice that has an Eco theme. Meet makers and stallholders who create products from waste or found items, food items grown from sustainable practices, art from recycled products, items that can be recycled when no longer in use and creative repurposing. Maleny Community Centre.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/eco-creative-festival
Sat 1 - Thu 6 Apr CoComelon Live in Tulmur Place | Ipswich JJ and his friends are heading to Ipswich! Head along and explore, learn, and play with JJ and his friends these Easter School Holidays. Enjoy three colourful CoComelon activity zones! Battle it out in mini putt putt, bowl your way through the bowling alley and colour your world in the craft village. AND for the big kids – challenge yourself on the 11m climbing wall. Tulmur Place, Nicholas St Precinct. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/cocomelon-live-ipswich
Tue 4 – Sat 8 April Adventures of Peter Rabbit | Seven Hills
So far today Peter Rabbit has been chased by Mr McGregor, lost his jacket and shoe and almost got caught in a net… but that is not the worst thing that will happen today. Now Peter and Mrs Tittlemouse need to save Benjamin Bunny from the clutches of Mr Gregor before it’s too late. Get ready for a heartwarming and action-packed adventure as Small Crown Productions presents the classic tale, Adventures of Peter Rabbit. This new take on the story promises to be a must-see event for families this Easter.
The premiere season will run from April 4th to 8th at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills with shows at 4pm and 6.30pm. The production offers accessible options with Relaxed Performances and Companion Card acceptance. Don’t miss this affordable and entertaining family outing these Easter Holidays. For more information and booking links head to www.smallcrownproductions.com.au
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/adventures-of-peterrabbit-seven-hills
Tues 4 Apr A Giggle of Geese | Ipswich Mother Goose and her Daughter Jill live in the pretty village of Swipich. They are very poor, and their wicked Landlord has doubled their rent and threatens to evict them, unless Jill agrees to marry him. It takes the intervention of the King and Queen of Gooseland, a good fairy,
a passing pirate and numerous other wonderful characters to put things right. Along the way there is plenty of singing, a large serving of laughter and a great deal of love. Bookings required. Ipswich Civic Centre.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/a-giggle-of-geese
Fri 7 – Mon 10 Apr Gemboree 2023 | Dayboro Take the kids to see Australia’s premier gem, mineral and fossil show with over 1000 pieces on display! Plus demonstrations, lectures and stalls so you can take home your own treasure. Dayboro Showgrounds. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/gemboree-2023dayboro
Sun 16 Apr RAAF Amberley Heritage Centre Open Day | Amberley Get up close and personal with aircraft displays at RAAF Amberley Aviation Heritage Centre’s public open day. Explore a large range of military aircraft from years gone by, plus vehicles, aircraft equipment, reconnaissance cameras, a pop-up air raid shelter, cockpit modules, and other military memorabilia. Bookings essential!
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/raaf-amberley-heritagecentre-open-day
Thu 13 - Sun 16 Apr The Box Show | New Farm You’ll never look at a cardboard box the same way again! Get ready for the most sustainable fun you’ve ever had. In the hands of Junkyard Beats, ordinary household items are transformed into extraordinary musical instruments and unwanted junk comes alive in exciting and surprising ways! Bookings required. Brisbane Powerhouse www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-box-show
Sun 23 Apr Bracken Ridge Lion’s Train Day | Bracken Ridge
Everyone we talk to loves this affordable and fun family event! This community event is perfect fun for kids who love trains. Families can ride the steam and electric miniature trains from 9am to 1pm for a small fee. McPherson Park.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bracken-ridge-lions-train-day
Fri 28 Apr – Mon 1 May Planes, Trains and Autos | Ipswich
Looking for an adrenaline-charged weekend? Well, you’ve found it! Explore a range of amazing ground displays and aviationthemed activities. In the air, you will see aerial formation fly pasts and aerobatic displays. Don’t miss a special visit from Autobots, Bumblebee and Optimus Prime. The Workshops Rail Museum. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/planes-trains-autos-ipswich Fri 28 Apr – Sun 28 May Brisbane Comedy Festival | New Farm Australia’s fastest growing comedy festival has grown into a multivenue extravaganza, bursting at the seams to host a hand-picked selection of the funniest folk in the country. Brisbane Powerhouse, The Tivoli and The Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane Comedy Festival will play host to one-liners, whimsy and tall tales from some of the most hilarious local, national and international comedians. Tickets on sale now.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/brisbane-comedy-festival
Thu 13 Apr Flipside Circus | Cleveland Roll Up! Roll Up! Join circus workshops and have fun, test yourself, and learn a lot of new skills. Whether it’s tackling the trapeze or harnessing the hula-hoop, Flipside Circus’ workshops make school holidays even more fun. No matter what your child’s skill level is, Flipside Circus trainers will help them learn new circus skills and give them a chance to show off. Bookings essential. Redland Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/flipside-circus
Sat 15 Apr Sonic the Hedgehog 2 Outdoor Movie Night | Beenleigh Experience a fun family movie night out under the stars. Bring your own chair or picnic blanket and enjoy a free cup of popcorn if you are one of the first 100 to arrive. You can support the local businesses and pick up dinner in the city centre. Beenleigh Town Square. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/sonic-2-outdoor-movie
Mon 1 – Wed 31 May The Hills Festival | Multiple locations The Hills will come alive this May with fireworks, rides, entertainment and workshops for the month-long program of Hills Festival. The Hills District, just north of Brisbane encompassing the suburbs of Arana Hills, Bunya, Draper, Everton Hills, Ferny Hills and Albany Creek, will be stacked with an expansive program of unique events and activities spanning the entire month of May. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-hills-festival
Thu 4 - Sun 21 May Anywhere Festival | Various Locations
Discover nooks and crannies with performances anywhere but a theatre. Gigs in backyards, circus in churches, comedy in offices, and theatre in warehouses. The options are endless and so much fun! www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/anywhere-festival
this year’s Australia-wide Mould celebrations. Expect other dairydriven additions and matched pairings on the day such as olives, butter and smallgoods, as well as a myriad of cheese-focused dishes from a range of local cheesemongers and chefs. Tickets on sale now. Brisbane Showgrounds.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/mould-cheese-festival
Thu 18 May Blues on Broadbeach | Gold Coast Returning for its 22nd year, the first artist line-up is led by acoustic guitar legend Tommy Emmanuel, Aussie music icon Don Walker, award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter Emma Donovan & The Putbacks as well as international acts such as Don Bryant & The Bo-Keys. Set in the streets, parks and venues of Broadbeach, the festival is guaranteed to deliver 4 incredible days of live rhythm and blues music. Broadbeach.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/blues-on-broadbeach
Fri 19 – Sun 21 May The Brookfield Show 2023 | Brookfield The biggest, little country show around is set to amaze and delight showgoers across three jam packed days. From horses to show rides, cooking to circus performers, horticulture and dogs, more than 200 volunteers are hard at work to ensure the show has not only bounced back from torrential rains and flooding, but is going to be better than ever. Brookfield Showgrounds.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-brookfield-show
Fri 19 – Sun 21 May The Ipswich Show | Ipswich The Ipswich Show is celebrating its 150th anniversary – and the festivities are going to be huge! Celebrations will kick off with show favourites including animals, arts, craft, food, showbags, pig racing, nightly fireworks, sheep dog demonstrations, sideshow rides and much more. Ipswich showgrounds.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/the-ipswich-show
Sat 6 May Ipswich Dog Day Enjoy the city’s premier day where the community and their furry best friends gather together to celebrate all things that get them woofing excited. The line-up of activities includes market stalls, workshops, demonstrations, competitions, live music, food trucks and more. Nicholas Street Precinct. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/ipswich-dog-day
Thu 11 May Mr Stink | Cleveland It all starts when Chloe, makes friends with Mr Stink, the local tramp. Sure he smells a bit, but he’s the only person who’s ever been nice to her. So, when Mr Stink needs a place to stay, Chloe decides to hide him in the garden shed. The team behind The Midnight Gang and The 13- 26-, 52-, 78- and 91-Storey Treehouses Live on Stage return with this touching, twisted and hilarious, and very smelly tale… hold on to your nose! Bookings required. Redland Performing Arts Centre. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/mr-stink-cleveland
Sat 13 – Sun 14 May Mould – A Cheese Festival | Brisbane
Showcasing over 75 varieties of the very best in local artisan cheese from around the country, there’s a fromage to suit every palate at
Sat 18 Mar FREE Easter Party | Bethania Take the kids along to this wonderful community event that includes an egg hunt, jumping castle, sausage sizzle, craft activities and more. Three sessions available including 10am, 12pm and 2pm. Bookings essential. Bethania Community Centre.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/free-easter-partybethania
Fri 24 March – Mon 1 May Candyland Putt Putt | Herston If you’re a sweet tooth at heart you won’t want to miss your chance to swing through these fairways sprinkled with a mixed bag of delights. There’s so many sweet, themed holes to navigate including Candy Corner, Ice Cream Court, Bakery Bunker, Gumball Green, Fairy Floss Fairway and the eggs-cellent Bunny Hop. Bookings recommended. Victoria Park Golf Complex.
www.familiesmaga5zine.com.au/event/candyland-putt-puttherston
Sat 1 Apr Kids Club Easter Party | Caboolture Hop to it and book your little ones into Caboolture Sports Clubs Kids Easter Party! A super egg-citing event, jam-packed with an easter show, DJ, face painting, games, prizes and crafts! Plus, an egg-stra special visit from the Easter Bunny himself! The party also includes a kids meal for lunch. Bookings essential. Caboolture Sports Clubs.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/kids-club-easter-partymorayfield
Wed 5 Apr Bankfoot House Easter Egg Hunt | Glass House Mountains Search for gold nuggets (aka Easter eggs!) at the only surviving coach station on the famous Cobb & Co. run between Brisbane and Gympie. Bring your own basket and fossick the twoacre property for shiny wrappers in the hopes of sweet gold. No need for blasting or open cut mining, eggs will be hidden in plain sight. Increase your prospects by being ready at 10am when the gates open. Bookings required. Bankfoot House Heritage Precinct. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bankfoot-house-easteregg-hunt-glass-house-mountains
Thu 6 Apr Kids Easter Party | Warner This egg-cellent family event will include plenty of kids activities, easter eggs, snow cones and face painting. What a great way to kick off the Easter long weekend. Warner Tavern.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/kids-easter-party-warner
Families Magazine is made with love by...
Janine Mergler – Editor Joanne Crane – Co-EditorFri 7 Apr Bluewater Festival | Shorncliffe Organised by the Sandgate Bayside Chamber of Commerce, the famous Bluewater Festival held on Good Friday provides the perfect vantage point to watch the start of the annual Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race. The festival is jam packed with entertainment through the day with live bands, kids workshops, rides, food and markets all culminating into a beach party and fireworks in the evening at 7:30pm. Lower Moora Park. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/bluewater-festivalshorncliffe
Fri 7 & Sun 9 Apr Good Friday Pop Up Markets | Redcliffe Don your Easter Bonnet and get your basket ready, the Redcliffe Markets are putting on not one, but TWO Easter Bonanzas. With 200+ stalls to browse, with gourmet eats, handcrafted wares, egg-ceptional desserts and sweets, and gifts and games galore… PLUS we’ll be doing it ALL again at our weekly Sunday market on… you guessed it, Easter Sunday. That’s enough fun to send the Easter Bunny hopping mad! Redcliffe Parade.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/good-friday-pop-upmarkets-redcliffe
Sat 8 Apr Straddie Easter Carnival | Dunwich Where better than to celebrate Easter than on North Stradbroke Island! This annual community event has rides for the kids, showbags, animals, market stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display to end a fantastic day out. Ron Stark Oval.
www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/straddie-easter-carnivaldunwich
Sat 8 Apr Easter Saturday Races | Beaudesert This will be a fabulous family friendly eggs-travaganza with plenty to see and do including live racing, entertainment, pony rides and face painting plus a variety of food and beverages available for purchase. Gates open from 11am. Bookings recommended. Beaudesert Race Club. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/easter-saturday-racesbeaudesert
Sun 9 Apr Easter Eggstravaganza | Sandstone Point Hop on over for an Easter egg hunt with over 6,000 eggs to find! Enjoy live music, market stalls, craft stations, a petting zoo and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Bookings for the egg hunt required. Sandstone Point Hotel. www.familiesmagazine.com.au/event/easter-eggstravaganzasandstone-point
Natalie Turner – Listings Editor Karen Bleakley – Online Content ManagerThe information contained in this publication and on our website and social media forums is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Families Magazine and its contributors as detailed on individual articles. While we endeavour to publish information that is up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the information, products, services, or related images contained in print, on our website or in our social media forums for any purpose. Information received via our publication or online should not be relied upon for personal, medical, legal or financial decisions. You should consult an appropriate professional for specific advice tailored to your need and situation.
Suzie Porter – Designer Stephen Monteith – IT Systems and SupportWe do not endorse contents or advertisers in our publication or on our web pages and will not be responsible for any content of any linked site or any link contained in the link site. In no event shall we be liable for direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special, consequential damages or any damages whatsoever arising out of or in any way connected with the use of or performance of information, products, services or reliance on the contents of the advertisements. All material including, but not limited to adverts, editorial, images and part thereof sent to Families Magazine remain the property of Families Magazine. All materials and personal details will be handled appropriately with respect to data protection laws. No material published by Families Magazine in print or online may be reproduce whatsoever without prior written consent.
