Out & About with Kids - Issue 46 Spring 2015

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Special

FA M I LY | T R AV E L | H O L I D AY | L E I S U R E | E N T E R TA I N M E N T

OUT&ABOUT

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R R P $ 7. 9 5

KIDS

WITH

46

46

No.

2015 BEST OF

FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS

Winners revealed!

Holiday Parks Feature PLUS

5

big reasons to visit South Africa with your kids

WIN

a Norfolk Island Family Holiday (including airfares)

other great competitions

Phuket, Lombok, Cairns, the Philippines, Cook Islands, The Legendary Pacific Coast and in the skies with Etihad’s Flying Nanny Service!

Hunter Valley NSW Ballarat VIC & Sydney Olympic Park

48

hours in...

GOING OUTSIDE TO PLAY HAS NEVER LOOKED SO GOOD. Whichever way you turn, you discover another sight more fantastic than the last.

Share it all with your family on the amazing island of Kaua‘i.

With three navigable rivers, more than 30 kilometres of white-sand beaches, and an extensive list of outdoor activities, Kaua‘i will give your family a lifetime of memories.

Activities and outings range from mountain tubing, kayaking and riverboat rides to hikes along the pristine shoreline. Other activities include ziplining, ATV riding, taking a train through a working plantation, or simply swimming and playing at a local beach.

Start planning your vacation today by visiting gohawaii.com/au/kauai.

GoHawaii.com/au/kauai

Out & About with Kids Print & Digital outandaboutwithkids.com.au Publisher Elisa Elwin elisa@oawk.com.au 0413 770 550 Editor Christine Kane christine@oawk.com.au Digital Content Manager Lisa Monk lisamonk@oawk.com.au Associate Publisher Richard Bunting rbunting@oawk.com.au 0424 138 806 Contributors Richard Bunting Elisa Elwin Carla Grossetti The Hewitt Family Charli Kane Anne Majumdar Julie Miller Mark William Sheehan Barry Stone Yumi Stynes Penny Webb Sue White Lisa Willows Print Design Magnesium Media

T

he arrival of spring heralds a welcome return to outdoor activities for most Australians, and if there’s ever a perfect time to get out & about with the family, enjoying the sunshine, the coming six months is it …

Long summer school holidays are on their way, and our annual Holiday Parks feature is a timely reminder of the sheer ease, simplicity and fun of family holidays in the great outdoors. Come with us for a peek into inland parks and coastal retreats across the country, accessible parks, kids school holiday activities and, everyone’s favourite, water parks!

Escape with our amazing FAMILY TRAVELLER contributors on distinctly different family adventures including to the Cook Islands, the Philippines and Tropical North Queensland; and ....drum roll ... we present the WINNERS of ...

Page 37 THE BEST OF FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS 2015

The Out & About with Kids team

Print Art Director Louise Summerton Advertising Enquiries Richard Bunting rbunting@oawk.com.au 0424 138 806 Published by Elwin Media Pty Ltd ABN: 22 159 093 606

PO Box 4148, Balgowlah Heights NSW 2093 0413 770 550 Cover image Shamwari Game Reserve South Africa © Shamwari Group

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the editorials are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher and Out & About with Kids. Information provided was believed to be correct at the time of publication.

Copyright © Out & About with Kids 2015 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is strictly prohibited. All reasonable efforts have been made to contact copyright holders. Out & About with Kids cannot accept unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. If such items are to be sent to the magazine they will be returned.

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© Jürgen Otto

Opening November 2015 Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre King Edward Terrace, Canberra. Phone 02 6270 2800 Open 9 am–5 pm every day. Closed 25 December.

Admission fees apply.

Exhibition partner

#spiders

www.questacon.edu.au

contents

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48 hours

6

WIN

Our fantastic new competition in this issue could see you and your family heading off on an unforgettable island holiday on beautiful Norfolk Island! Including return airfares, attractions, car hire and accommodation at Tau Gardens Holiday Home, hurry and enter now for your chance to escape to paradise!

PINETREE TOURS NORFOLK ISLAND

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YUMI STYNES With Baby #4 on the way, Yumi, her husband Martin and one-year-old daughter Mercy, decided to say ‘Aloha’ to the friendly folk of Hawaii – with a stop over in Honolulu, before a much-needed beach break on the island of Kauai.

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DID YOU KNOW…?

We’ve got a jam-packed Did You Know…? for spring, covering everything from kids’ educational attractions and zoo babies, to cruise, tech and airport news, plus special features to help you get to know … the Sunshine Coast and South Africa, as well as great competitions!

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TOP 5 REASONS TO VISIT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS JAPAN

© Sydney Olympic Park Authority

Let’s start with The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and the brand new Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ in 4K3D ride! Out & About with Kids was there for the unveiling of this incredible attraction!

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37 2015 BEST OF

FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS

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THE BEST OF FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS 2015 All of the Winners and Finalists, as voted by you …

55 © Disney

Kids in America

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FABULOUS FIJI

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Do you know your Coral Coast from your Savusavu? Take a journey across the map of Fiji, following the fun icons, to discover one of our favourite destinations and its fabulous family-friendly resorts.

It’s amazing just how much fun you can fit into a 48-hour getaway with the family when you stay and play hours in... close to home. In this issue: Ballarat in Victoria, the NSW Hunter Valley and the precinct of Sydney Olympic Park.

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We’ve stayed there, and played there: Queensland’s Mantra Gold Coast and Couran Cove Resort, and The Pokemonfriendly Peninsula Tokyo!

We love them, and so do you – so here’s our annual Aussie Holiday Parks feature to whet your appetite for the summer holidays!

Plus – our first-hand reviews.

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111

WE REVIEW

KIDS IN AMERICA Ever wondered what it’s like to join in the fun on a Disney Cruise or at Disney World, Florida? Do you know where to find the biggest shopping complex in the USA, a big CROW, big BALL OF TWINE and more…? And meet our ‘7 Days are Not Enough’ prize-winning family who share their Anaheim, California diary of adventures.

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HOLIDAY PARKS

Tropical North Queensland – page 120

Sit back, relax and let our wonderful contributors take you on family travels far and wide … from Finding El Nido, off the island of Palawan in the Philippines, to a dad and son adventure sailing around Indonesian islands. 10-month-old Ollie rates Etihad’s Flying Nanny Service, while 11-month-old Ellie shows her Granny Ju-Ju how to live it up in Phuket! Explore Cairns, the Cook Islands and the NSW North Coast with kids.

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5

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WIN

PINETREE TOURS NORFOLK ISLAND

7 blissful nights on Norfolk Island

W

ould you like to treat your family to a holiday in a beautiful, peaceful island paradise, less than three hours’ flying time from the east coast of Australia?

Add in unique experiences and memorable adventures and you’ll soon discover there’s more to Norfolk Island for families than abundant pristine beaches, sensational scenery and wonderful people! Visit norfolkisland.com.au to discover paradise!

And thanks to NORFOLK ISLAND TOURISM, Out & About with Kids is offering one lucky family the chance to enjoy 7 blissful nights on this idyllic, family-friendly island plus fabulous shows, attractions, car hire, airfares and more.

This fantastic prize includes: • Return flights to Norfolk Island for a family of four; • 7 nights accommodation at the Tau Gardens Holiday home.

• Car hire • Sound and Light show, Wonderland by Night show and Mutiny on the Bounty show.

• Glass Bottom Boat tour of Emily Bay lagoon. … and that’s only the beginning!

TO ENTER - head to our website at outandaboutwithkids.com.au – where you’ll find all the details of this fantastic family holiday prize, and full Terms & Conditions.

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YUMI STYNES What could be better than the sunshine and smiles of a Hawaiian holiday before the imminent arrival of baby #4? A pregnant Yumi, her husband, and one-year-old daughter, stopover in Honolulu before islandhopping to kick back on sensational Kauai …

‘Y

ou’ve lost a lot of weight since that photo was taken!’ my husband says to the taxi driver, gesturing at the man’s taxi ID on the dashboard.

“That’s my wife,” says the driver.

There’s a dead silence.

“OH MY GOD!” I mouth to my husband, slapping my forehead and pretending to fall down dead in the back seat.

We’re on our way from Honolulu Airport to the world-famous Waikiki Beach, on Hawaii’s island of Oahu. It hasn’t even been ten minutes and we’re already offending the locals.

Our flight from Sydney arrived in Honolulu at around 7am local time. I feel like hell. My husband Martin and I have brought our one-year-old daughter, Mercy, and I’m pregnant again with our son. As I squint into the Hawaiian sun after a 10hour flight with no sleep, I’m delighted to see that stretch limousines operate alongside taxis to and from the airport and cost around the same. Our driver is a large Hawaiian chap – part Chinese, part Hawaiian, all smiles – and luckily he has a sense of humour!

I’ve been in desperate need of a break – what with Aussie winter and a new baby, it seems like we haven’t felt real sunshine in months.

Hello Honolulu!

Waikiki is a great first stop (before we head to the island of Kauai) and we pick up a cheap stroller from Wal-Mart (700 Keeaumoku St., HNL, open 24 hrs), handy for short walks from our Waikiki accommodation. For most other trips a hire car is essential. We were amazed to discover that child restraints are completely optional in Hawaii, in cars, taxis and even on planes. On our Hawaiian

Airlines flight to Kauai, no seatbelt was provided for our one-year-old. “Just keep her on your lap!” they told us cheerfully.

Baby Beach & beautiful Kauai The hardest thing about planning this Hawaiian adventure has been choosing an island to explore.

Kauai is less than an hour’s flying time from Oahu, and famous for its 43 beaches, hipster culture and stunning scenery. It’s been the backdrop for Hollywood films from ‘Jurassic Park’ to ‘George of the Jungle’. But what really attracts us is a beach so family-friendly that it’s actually called ‘Baby Beach’, as well as the clusters of world-class restaurants, and spectacular scenery that inspired the song “Puff The Magic Dragon”. (The line, “… and frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee” is said to about Hanalei Bay, up the north end of Kauai.)

Travelling with our baby has put a total handbrake on our style. We used to be way more fun. (I’m sure.)

Once Martin would have been making friends and gathering local phrases at a furious pace while I busied myself reading, running, sunbathing and consuming cocktails from coconuts. Instead we find ourselves scheduling each day around Mercy’s naps, eating early, and avoiding the blazing sun. Even shopping has to be done in a rush as the baby, who can’t walk yet, gets bored and crawls over store displays and smears food over the merchandise. Amid this chaos I manage to get Martin a Hawaiian shirt that is actually made in Hawaii (check the tags, some are made in India or China).

I recommend you pack your own goggles and snorkels.

It’s worth it on a drive up to the pristine shores of North Kauai to Tunnels Beach. When we get there it’s a perfect day. Near to us, locals are barbecuing smoky meats beside eskys and parked cars. On the beach, paying tourists are being shown where to snorkel by a guide, but it’s just a walk down the beach and into the ocean, so my

If you’re stopping for a night or two in Honolulu, make it worth your while.

3 DON’T-MISS WAIKIKI FOOD EXPERIENCES! 1. Marukame Udon The queues can be insane but while you wait, watch the expert chefs making those delicious chewy udon noodles fresh. The experience is cheap – you carry your own tray and can pull extra

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toppings from the bain marie – but unbelievably tasty and you’ll want to go back every day of your stay.

2310 Kuhio Ave, Honolulu

2. Yakinuku Korea House After an unpromising walk through a car park, you’ll spot a neon sign that leads to the discovery of this well-kept secret.

Smoke-filled, authentic Korean

BBQ awaits, where you cook your own meats at the table ridiculously fun AND tasty. Try the whole sirloin, which an old Korean lady with Amy Winehouse’s hairdo will snip into pieces at your table.

1625 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu

3. Bubbies Homemade Icecream & Desserts You know you’re on holidays when eating fat buttons of ice cream

encased in silky pounded “mochi” rice seems like a good idea. Fresh deliveries of Mochi ice cream arrive every Tuesday, but go back any day for the standard Lychee flavour, ubiquitous Green Tea, and keep an eye peeled for special guest flavours like Cherry Blossom and Chocolate Peanut Butter.

At the entrance to Food Pantry Supermarket, 2370 Kuhio Ave, Honolulu

Fun on Kauai …

fella and I take it in turns to do it by ourselves for free.

During one of Martin’s turns our daughter, (who is playing in the shallow water and pretty much nude apart from a rashy), suddenly starts grunting and going red in the face. “What are you doing?!” I cry, but it’s too late, she’s done it!

I look around for my husband but he’s 30m offshore, face down chasing fish. Alone I deal with a terrible choice: Do I ignore my baby’s poo and let it float out to sea, (past the tourists and the husband) or do I find some way to deal with it? Sigh… Being a grownup sucks! I use my hands to shoo it in towards shore like I’m a shepherd and it’s a little brown sheep, then scoop it up with sand and manage to wrap it inside a nappy without making skincontact. “Bye-bye, Baa-Baa,” I say. The baby watches all this with great interest. It’s disgusting and hilarious and I’m busting to tell Martin

the minute he staggers out of the shallows. Great memories, great holiday – thanks, kid.

By the end of the break I’m as brown as a burnished old coconut and my baby has learnt how to walk! For the rest of my life I’ll be able to tell her that she learnt to walk in Hawaii. And at her 21st, I’ll be telling everyone about that time we were snorkelling on Kauai and she suddenly started grunting and…

On Location!

The 2011 film The Descendants, starring George Clooney, was set and shot on the island. The film includes beautiful vistas of Hanalei Bay, and the local’s bar Tahiti Nui (5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei), where Clooney and his onscreen brother, Beau Bridges, have a drink, served by the real-life bartender Julia, who, at last check, was still working there!

Kukui’ula shopping village Down the south end of the island is a series of consistently great restaurants, cafes and galleries. Try to go on Wednesdays when they have a rather excellent grower’s market and live music.

2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka Rd, Poipu, Kauai Baby Beach Park on Lawai Road then walk down a small path to get to the beach. Shade can be found at the far end of the beach under a tree.

5142 Lawai Rd, Poipu, Kauai Spinning Dolphin Designs Hand-printed shirts and other souvenirs 5-5190 Kuhio Hwy (part of the Ching Young Village Shopping Center), Hanalei

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9

Collect stories, not selfies.

You won’t remember the time you spent staring at your screen, but you’ll never forget your time with us in Hawaii.

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+1·808·924·2924 | astonhotels.com SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

PUB: Out and About with Kids Property: All Hawaii Issue: Spring 2015 Client: Aston Size: Full Page bleed (210 mm x 275 mm) Colors: Full DUE: 9/4

D I D Y O U K NO W ...?

©Destination Tamworth

Did you know …?

©Destination Tamworth

Toe-tapping at the Tamworth Country Music Festival!

All roads lead to the NSW city of Tamworth in January for the annual family-friendly Tamworth Country Music Festival running from Friday, 15 January to Sunday, 24 January 2016.

Australia’s largest music festival (and one of the top 10 music festivals in the world) features over 800 performers and 4,000 shows across 120 different venues, and includes amazing family street music, children’s concerts, baby animal farms and play areas across the 10-day program of events!

Be there for the pinnacle of the festival – The Golden Guitar Awards, held on the second Saturday of the Festival – when the who’s who of Australian country music gather with fans to celebrate the year’s winners!

Enjoy everything that’s great about country Australia in one of the largest inland cities in NSW, during the largest Country Musical Festival in the southern hemisphere. > tcmf.com.au

Capital vacation The funky QT Canberra hotel is the perfect place for families to pit stop and enjoy a few days in our nation’s capital, and the QT Canberra: Family Quest Package not only includes accommodation and breakfast but also a family ticket to Questacon! You’ll stay in a QT Junior Suite, enjoy full buffet breakfast for two adults and two kids in the award-winning Capitol Bar & Grill and receive complimentary onsite parking, WiFi and in-room movies. Available to book and stay until 31 December 2015. > qtcanberra.com.au/promotions/family-quest/

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Meet South Africa Go Go to to www.southafrica.net www.southafrica.net

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D I D Y O U K NO W ...?

The Whitsundays’ Daydream Island continues to be a family favourite holiday hot spot, and one of its star attractions, The Living Reef, features over 140 species of marine animals including sharks, rays, starfish, barramundi, the cutest clownfish and more than 80 varieties of coral.

Man-made lagoons offer the opportunity to feed and interact in a safe environment with the marine animals, whilst learning all about the Great Barrier Reef ecosystem. The specially-tailored Reef Ranger program allows guests aged six and up the opportunity to take part in an extended guided Living Reef experience.

Daydream’s Stay 5, Pay for 4 accommodation package provides the perfect way to experience all that the Living Reef and Daydream has to offer. Priced from only $620* per person twin share, it includes 5 nights accommodation with breakfast, over 20 free guest activities, plus children stay and eat breakfast for free. Terms and conditions apply.

For bookings free call Reservations 1800 075 040 or visit daydream.com

© Daydream Island Resort

Stay longer in paradise and save

See original stage pieces from The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, try on Mary Poppins’ coat, and even curl up in The Little Mermaid’s seashell on a special walking tour in New York City!

Walks of New York has partnered with Disney Theatrical Group to introduce a new Disney on Broadway: Behind the Magic walking tour in The Big Apple, with special access behind the scenes at Disney’s historic New Amsterdam Theatre, the current home to the Broadway musical, Aladdin.

The tour starts in fabulous Times Square and explores the history of Broadway from the burgeoning 1920s right up to the present. Learn about the shows, actors and scandals that have become Broadway lore for more than 100 years. Other highlights include guided stops at the famous Sardi’s, and a walk through Shubert Alley, before arriving at Disney’s New Amsterdam Theatre.

Suitable for children from 3 years and up, each walk group is limited to 25 people, in order to provide a more personalised experience, and tours run from 10:00 am until 12:30 pm on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. For more information and ticket purchase visit walksofnewyork.com.

© Walks of New York

A Disney Walk through Broadway, NYC

WIN a Ballarat

Pass to sensational attractions!

The Victorian city of Ballarat is an attraction drawcard for families. (Get inspiration from our fun-filled ‘48 Hours in Ballarat’ on PAGE 69!)

Out & About with Kids is offering one lucky family the chance to WIN a Ballarat Pass to four sensational attractions for 2 adults and up to 4 kids, including bonus discounts, valued at $299.

Explore Sovereign Hill, Kryal Castle, Wildlife Park and M.A.D.E. and enjoy additional discounted fun at Ballarat Ghost tours, Gold Rush mini golf, The Tangled Maze and more. > visitballarat.com.au/ballarat-pass Head to our website to enter, and for full details of the competition, including Terms & Conditions. > outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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BOOK DIRECT AT

wyndhamAP.com/hotels/deals/schoolsout

*Terms and Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Minimum night stay and blackout dates may apply at selected properties. On sale for bookings made between 30th April 2015 and 15th November 2015 and for travel between 19th June until 15th November 2015. For full terms and conditions visit http://www.wyndhamap.com/hotels/deals/schoolsout. Wyndham Vacation Resorts Asia Pacific Pty Ltd ACN 090 083 613. Resort Management

by Wyndham Pty Ltd ACN 099 634 830. WHG10211B

An Enriching Experience For All Ages At the award winning inclusive five star Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort – Fiji you will rekindle romance, savour creative gourmet cuisine, relax, rejuvenate with a massage and enjoy snorkelling and fishing while your treasures are nurtured by fantastic Fijian nannies. The only resort in Fiji to employ a marine biologist, it has created a wonderful program for children (Bula Club 9am-9pm) which focuses on fun, culture and the environment. It creates time for families to bond and allows parents some wonderful “couples time out”. Two children under 12 are free with 2 adults.

For enquiries on family packages inclusive of 2 free nights + bonuses

call: 1300 306 171 email: sales@fijiresort.com www.fijiresort.com or see your local Travel Agent

Free nanny for each child under 6 years 9am-9pm

www.fijiresort.com

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D I D Y O U K NO W ...?

plus a chance to WIN $2000 towards your next holiday!

More than half of all Aussie parents admit to having a different parenting style while they’re on holiday, according to Wotif.com – the home of holidays.

Not surprisingly, 83% of parents say they’re more relaxed on holidays and even let some of the ‘at home rules for the kids’ slide!

Wotif.com shares their top tips to help you create the perfect ‘chilled out’ family holiday, on a budget.

Become a member - signing in to the Wotif site entitles you to access Members Only deals which could save you up to 50% on hotel stays around the world.

Look for freebies and value-adds - find hotel inclusions like ‘free breakfasts’ or ‘free parking’ when you filter results by added extras in the ‘hotel preferences’ list.

Get inspired - visit wotif.com/families for a quick and easy way to find great family deals and destination inspiration.

Take your pet - Wotif has thousands of pet-friendly accommodation options - from holiday parks to hotels saving you the costs associated with pet boarding, and keeping your four-legged family members happy!

Holiday package = savings - combining flights and accommodation in a Wotif holiday package offers you a special rate that’s not available if booked separately. You can choose to sort the package options by ‘package discount’, or even by ‘price’.

1 2 3 4 5

And for the ultimate travel savings …

you could WIN $2,000 towards a Wotif flight and hotel package! Visit outandaboutwithkids.com.au to enter.

Year 7 student starts kids holiday review website What inspired a 12-year-old schoolgirl from Dubbo, NSW to create her own review-style website for kids?

“I came up with this idea when Mum was filling out a TripAdvisor review after a family holiday,” Bella Tipping explains. “She liked a hotel where we had stayed and gave it a great review, but I really didn’t like it at all as it was so adult-focused. The fold-out bed I had was uncomfortable and the kids’ meals were the same old dried out nuggets and pasta. To me, it was like the parents mattered, but the kids didn’t.

“I thought it would be a great idea if kids could have their say too because so many holiday venues and attractions don’t cater for younger members of the family and if the kids aren’t having a good time, then our parents aren’t either.”

And so Kidzcationz.com was born – a website that allows kids (and their parents and carers) to rate hotels, restaurants, theme parks and attractions, based on how well they support the needs of younger members of the family.

The site has been designed to run alongside adult review sites, so families looking for a holiday destination can get a broad view of how well that venue can support the whole family. Kidzcationz.com will also allow direct online bookings via Expedia, so, once the venue which suits everyone in the family is found, they can immediately book and pay.

Kidzcationz.com is a kids-safe site. Children do not use a photo of themselves with their user names, there is no person-to-person contact and no information is shared. When they sign up, children choose an avatar and the more reviews they make, the more points they gain to upgrade their avatar.

Well done Bella! > kidzcationz.com

Stayz.com.au names Best Property for Families Play Shack 2 River Front, a house in Victoria’s Sawmill Settlement/ Merrijig, was recently awarded Best Property for Families at the Stayz 2015 Holiday Rental Awards. In their fourth year, the awards recognise the very best holiday rentals across more than 45,000 rentals listed on Stayz.com.au, in over 2,000 unique locations nationally.

The expert panel of industry judges agreed that Play Shack 2 River Front was the deserving winner of the category, saying: This rustic log cabin, combined with modern architecture, is the ultimate family haven.

Sleeping up to 16, two distinct wings provide peace and quiet - upstairs is for playing and downstairs is for relaxing. Property features include a pool, a variety of games and entertainment for the kids – such as a ping-pong and air hockey table – plus direct river access which is perfect for afternoon drinks or fishing. > stayz.com.au

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© stayz.com.au

© Shutterstock

TOP TIPS for holiday savings with Wotif.com

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D I D Y O U K NO W ...?

© Shamwari Group

Did you know …?

South Africa

Five Big Reasons to Visit South Africa With Your Kids Shamwari Game Reserve The famous story of Elsa the Lioness - Born Free - from the 1950s, put wildlife protection on the map and, ever since, conservation has been key at Shamwari Game Reserve.

Situated on South Africa’s malariafree Eastern Cape, Shamwari offers truly unforgettable family holidays. Imagine your own tailor-made safari from your private five-star lodge with personal chef, guides and more! Enjoy the Kids on Safari program, Born Free Centre, the Ian Player Rhino Awareness Centre and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. > shamwari.com

Virgin Limited Edition properties Fabulous views, warm hospitality, dedicated Cubs Club and free babysitting can be found at Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve, Ulusaba, in the Western Sabi Sand Reserve near Kruger National Park. At Rock Lodge, children six years and upwards are welcome on supervisor-accompanied game drives, and special diets and safari-themed birthdays are a house speciality. > virginlimitededition.com/en/ulusaba

© Virgin Limited Edition - Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Near Capetown, the stunning, vineyard-based hotel Mont Rochelle, in Franschhoek, also welcomes children, with special facilities and food, and under fives stay for free! Western Cape Province is known as the ‘French Corner’ and Franschhoek is considered to be the

country’s food and wine capital.

> virginlimitededition.com/en/mont-

rochelle

African Secrets

Staying at Jaci’s Tree Lodge means a luxury African treehouse, an elephant or two out the window and blazing fires under the African stars! Add a mighty river, delicious food, excellent staff and a child-friendly attitude and you know it’s the holiday of a lifetime even without the amazing wildlife.

Jaci’s ticks all of these boxes, plus beautiful thatched-roof lodges on the grounds, with private pools. Accompanied children six years and over are welcome on two game drives a day while the younger ones also have their own special Jungle Drives. Children are always welcome at Jaci’s. > madikwe.com

The Palace Sun City Enjoy a truly opulent and lavish family holiday and experience a special conservation-oriented Kids Program set around Pilanesberg National Park. Optional extras include a three hour game drive (suitable for all the family) into a park teeming with wildlife - Pilanesberg is not only home to “The Big 5” (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino & Elephant), it is also home to 49 major mammal species (e.g. Kudu, Giraffe, Zebra, Impala). Go hot air ballooning (height restriction over 1.2 metres), on horseback safaris and zip sliding. The hotel staff always go the extra mile for kids! Fly direct to Pilanesberg from Johanesburg and Capetown. > suninternational.com/palace

Sabi Sabi At Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve in south west Kruger, 35 years experience in family holidays produces a combination of awardwinning five star luxury and a dedicated and enriching kids program. The luxury huts are world-famous, as are the Rangers and guides, and repeat bookings are the reserve’s best advertisement. Children love the unique EleFun Centre activities, designed by childcare professionals, including age-appropriate bush walks and talks covering bushcraft subjects - animals, bugs and birds, tracking, mapreading, arts and crafts, treasure hunts as well as fun-filled local bushveld games. There is even a soccer field and maze. > sabisabi.com South African Airways

> flysaa.com

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DI D Y OU KNOW...?

Did you know …?

Cruise Calling all young Padawans…

Best of both worlds this Christmas

© Disney / & ™Lucasfilm Ltd

Can’t decide between a white Christmas or a warm Aussie Christmas? This festive season Carnival Legend’s inaugural Queensland cruise will be transformed into a Winter Wonderland – so you won’t have to choose! Take the family to experience some of Queensland’s beautiful and balmy tropical beaches and ports, to soak up the summer sun – then hop back onboard where the ship’s atrium will resemble the White Christmas of your dreams! Snow, carollers, Christmas trees, festive foods, a visit from Santa and lots of yuletide family fun! > carnival.com.au

In early 2016, lucky guests of eight select Disney Cruise Line sailings will have the exciting opportunity to be transported to a galaxy far, far away as part of Star Wars Day at Sea. Taking place for one whole day during the select Disney Fantasy sailings through the Western Caribbean, the event features Star Wars-themed activities, an amazing deck party, meet and greets with your favourite characters and special merchandise offerings – as well as exclusive screenings of the Star Wars films and the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels.

Guests can dress up and interact with their favourite Star Wars characters and young Jedi hopefuls will be able to learn lightsaber moves from a Jedi Master at the shipboard Jedi Training Academy experience. Even the adults’ nightclub will be transformed into the Mos Eisley cantina scene! Celebrities and insiders close to the films will also be onboard, sharing their Star Wars experiences with guests and signing autographs. Departing in the United States from Port Canaveral in Florida, the seven-night Disney Fantasy cruise will include Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay. > disneycruise.com

Biggest aqua park at sea

When the world’s largest cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, makes her summer season cruise debut in May 2016, to some of Europe’s most popular destinations, it will also be the inaugural outing at sea of Splashaway Bay, an interactive aqua park for kids.

Splashaway Bay will be a vibrant waterscape for kids and toddlers with sea creature water cannons, winding slides, a gigantic drench bucket, a multi-platform jungle gym, and the heart-pounding thrill ride, Ultimate Abyss, a 10-storey slide that begins in the Pool and Sports Zone and spirals five decks above Central Park in the centre of the ship! > royalcaribbean.com.au

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Modern makeover for Pacific Pearl

It’s a new look for P&O’s popular Pacific Pearl – and just in time for the start of cruise season!

With stylish décor, a fresh colour palette and contemporary furniture, wallpaper, artwork and carpet, Pacific Pearl will soon be showing off her modern Australian feel to guests. Not only that, the ship is also ramping up the fun (and adrenaline!) with the addition of the popular P&OEdge Adventure Park, featuring 15 great activities including a surfboard simulator, flying fox and walk the plank. > pocruises.com.au

Enjoy a FREE night on us!

PLUS - Kids stay and eat breakfast FREE!

includes: • 5 nights in a luxurious Garden Balcony room • Children stay & eat breakfast FREE of charge* • FREE shell necklace and mocktail on arrival • Over 20 FREE guest activities

• Scrumptious full buffet breakfast daily • FREE WI-FI in atrium 24 hours a day • FREE holiday portrait during your stay

Stay 5 Pay 4 Package

620

$

*

per person, twin share

For bookings free call 1800 075 040 contact your local travel agent or visit www.daydreamisland.com/5for4 *Conditions apply, subject to availability. On sale until 31/03/16. For travel until 31/03/16. Block out period 18/12/15 - 17/01/16, 25/03/16 - 28/03/16. Children aged 0 - 14 years inclusive stay and eat breakfast free of charge when sharing a room with parents/adults and utilising existing bedding. Extra charge applies for adult’s and children’s transfers . Cots can be provided free of charge. Extra nights available upon request. All prices are quoted in Australian dollars. ^Free Wi-Fi in atrium and all room types 24 hours a day.

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Play on Phillip Island Less than two hours drive from the city, Phillip Island helps you re-energise and relax with its native wildlife, diverse beaches, great food and wine, interactive attractions and endless accommodation choices.

See all our offers available now.

Download your exclusive offers and plan your trip from our website...

visitphillipisland.com

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Like Friends of Phillip Island on Facebook

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Did you know …?

AccorHotels

You’ve probably heard of hotel brands Novotel, Mercure, Sofitel and Pullman, but did you know they all fall under the very large portfolio of AccorHotels?

AccorHotels is the world’s leading hotel operator with internationally renowned brands covering the full spectrum, from luxury (Sofitel, Pullman, MGallery, Grand Mercure, The Sebel) and midscale (Novotel, Suite Novotel, Mercure, Mama Shelter, Adagio) to economy (ibis, ibis Styles, ibis budget, adagio access and hotelF1) establishments – and across Australia, you’ll find Accor Hotel brands in every state.

The hotel group prides itself on spreading its shared passion for hospitality, promising a huge ‘Feel Welcome’ experience to every guest. And here are some BIG statistics … over 180,000 women and men in 3,700 AccorHotels properties look after thousands of guests every day in 92 countries!

AccorHotels has just launched a new app that includes all of the Groups’ hotels and helpful features including: bookings, pre-stay trip preparation, storage of information like flights, train tickets, an e-check-in/fast check-out, access to city guides, taxi bookings and room service ordering, loyalty program information and more.

Download the app through iTunes and Google Play. > accorhotels.com.au > accorhotels.com

From top: The Sebel Resort Noosa Pool The Sebel Pelican Waters Golf Resort & Spa exterior and pool

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Did you know …?

Sunshine Coast If you thought it was a destination of mere sunshine and coast, you’d be mistaken. Oh it has all that, naturally! The Sunshine Coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches and sensational climate, which is why it’s one of the most popular regions in Australia for a family holiday. > visitsunshinecoast.com.au

Two wheel adventures New bicycle paths along the coast offer a great way to discover the region’s best beaches. The Caloundra Coastal Path hugs the shores of the Pumicestone Passage, before arriving at the Bulcock Beach boardwalk on the way to Happy Valley, Kings Beach and around Moffat headland. The world class network of pathways make it easy for visitors of all ages and abilities to enjoy the natural scenic beauty of the region. Families can explore in their own time and stop off as often as they like with cafes, eateries and great picnic and swimming spots along the way.

But … did you know … just 30 minutes from the coast lies a spectacular Hinterland, made up of atmospheric villages, rainforest, outstanding food products and a wide range of natural attractions?

So when you’re next in the area, why not get out and about and try something new and different, for a truly unforgettable Sunshine Coast family holiday experience? > hinterlandtourism.com.au

Milk doesn’t come from a bottle

Connecting every day food items with their source is a rich and educational experience for everyone, and a guided tour of Maleny Dairies will show that milk doesn’t necessarily come from a bottle! A working farm, the baby animal pen is so much fun and kids will love patting a baby calf, milking cows and seeing where milk is processed and bottled. > malenydairies.com

Waterfall way

Water is at the heart of the Sunshine Coast experience, but for a slightly different aquatic adventure head inland to one of the region’s many waterfalls. Gardeners Falls offers freshwater swimming at its best. Located near Falls Creek Road at Obi Obi, it is just a short walk to the falls from the sealed car park and is one of the prettiest waterways in Australia. Booloumba Falls lies within Kenilworth State Forest, just past Kenilworth, where you can stop off to enjoy fresh ice cream, yoghurt and cheese at Kenilworth Country Foods. Park at the Booloumba Creek picnic and camping areas.

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© Shutterstock

How well do you know Queensland’s glorious Sunshine Coast?

Feathered friends

© Shutterstock

One of the most attractive recent additions to the Sunshine Coast’s holiday attractions is Maleny Botanic Gardens. The magnificent gardens afford jaw-dropping views across to the Glass House Mountains and families love exploring Bird World, one of the largest private aviaries in Australia.

See huge and colourful macaws, parrots and quails, and since many of the birds are tame and social, children can really get hands-on with these feathered friends! You can also meet Snowy (a miniature goat) and Baa Baa and Blackie, the Dorper sheep. Special goat and sheep food is supplied for the kids to feed the friendly animals. Guinea Fowl, hens, roosters, peacocks (including the all-white Prince Charming and Cinderella), wild ducks and other birds can be spotted throughout the gardens.

Devonshire Tea is served in the gazebos overlooking the gardens, or byo lunch and use one of the many picnic tables.

Visitors are actively encouraged to get ON the grass, spread out a blanket, take a snooze, relax and enjoy the fabulous views! > malenybotanicgardens.com.au

Ticket to ride

The Sunshine Coast’s Big Kart Track is the largest commercial track in the country and features 1.2km of asphalt-laden surface on which to put your driving skills to the test.

Capable of running up to 50 go-karts at any one time, kids looking to get in on the driving action need to be at least 12 years of age to drive, and as long as they meet this and the minimum height requirement (152cm), they’ll be presented with a great way to spend half a day. > bigkart.com.au

One of the Sunshine Coast’s longestrunning family attractions, the Ginger Factory at Yandina, is actually far more interesting and upbeat than its name suggests – it’s a theme park of sorts that features tours, relaxed rides, good food and lovely gardens all wrapped up in a decidedly ginger-y package. Free activities include the great children’s playground and the expansive, exotic gardens.

Buy tickets and hop aboard “Moreton”, the 100-year-old cane train that takes guests on a leisurely tour, or on the “Overboard”, a boat ride that’s like a miniature ‘around the world’ adventure, as the vessel chases the gingerbread man - a hit with younger kids! > gingerfactory.com.au

© Shutterstock

Nuts about Ginger

The ultimate zoo and animal hospital

Across the road Nutworks and the Chocolate Factory offers plenty of opportunity to to sample delicious nuts and chocolate, and during the school holidays kids aged between 5 and 12 years can join the ‘Kids Chocolate Hub Sessions’ workshops. > nutworks.com.au

There are few wildlife parks in the country more famous than the Sunshine Coast’s iconic Australia Zoo. The Irwin family proudly carry on the late Steve Irwin’s work, and the core values of conservation, animal care and welfare are evident everywhere. Australia Zoo boasts an incredibly diverse array of animals from Aussie favourites such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats (and crocodiles, of course!) to an amazing African exhibit. > australiazoo.com.au

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4 DAYS & NIGHTS FREE when you book your ultimate canadian hoilday*

Book now:

1300 754 754

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1300 SKI SKI

D I D Y O U K NO W ...?

© Travelplan Ski

Did you know …?

Ski Great Canada family ski deals

© Travelplan Ski

Sensational Silver Star has it all!

© SkiMax

Canada offers great value for money when it comes to family ski holidays, with many resorts offering free lift passes and ski hire for children under 12 years. Picturesque villages and towns, out of this world scenery, boutique shopping, excellent restaurants and state-of-the-art kids ski school facilities mean there is something for everyone in the family.

Skimax Canada specialists have experienced the resorts first hand, and can personally recommend the perfect itinerary for your family.

New deals with Earlybird booking bonuses are regularly on sale and cropping up all the time, so keep your eye on the Skimax website to ensure you and your family don’t miss out on great stay and play offers, including Kids Ski For Free.

Skimax also offers terrific ski and snowboarding packages at the right price and with an uncomplicated service that helps you find the absolute package to best match your family’s Canada ‘snow holiday’ dreams! > skimax.com.au

Located high above British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Canada’s Silver Star Mountain Resort is themed after an early 1900s mining town, with a charming main street of bars, restaurants and shops.

Long-time residents and local characters give the resort its friendly, safe, community feel. One visit to Silver Star and you’ll understand why so many people love to call it ‘My Mountain’.

Kids love Silver Star and there’s plenty of fun activities on offer for the littlest snow lovers, but mum and dad can also enjoy the experience of this haven for skiers and snowboarders looking for a big mountain experience away from the lines. With over 130 runs spread across 4 mountain faces, the variety of terrain is second to none.

Travelplan Ski has fantastic deals, including all-inclusive season passes, for the coming white season at Silverstar – so don’t miss out!

Call: 1300 754 754 or email ski@travelplan.com.au > travelplan.com.au/silverstar

Jet off to Japan With up to 18m of some of the lightest powdery snow in the world falling every year, the Japanese ski season is always guaranteed to be good. When you add in a favourable exchange rate, incredibly low airfares and 30kg luggage allowance^ for the peak ski season with Cathay Pacific’s flights to Sapporo, Japan is likely to prove irresistible to Australian skiers and snow boarders. looking to get away this northern winter.

Cathay Pacific is offering Aussie travellers some great deals on flights to Sapporo, and with a fast connection in Hong Kong you can completely avoid the hassle of collecting luggage to change flights, or even airports, to transfer to your destination. The modern bustling city of Sapporo is the gateway to a large choice of Japanese ski resorts, including the most famous of all - the ‘snow factory’ of Niseko. ^Luggage allowance of 30 kilograms available to all passengers travelling in Premium Economy or Economy Class from Australia to Sapporo from 1 December 2015 to 29 February 2016. ^ Conditions apply > cathaypacific.com.au

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Top tech Watch Rabbids Appisodes!

Look out! Here comes another Rabbids Invasion! The popular Rabbids Invasion TV series has now been adapted for interactive play via the new Rabbids Appisodes app! Rabbids Appisodes is a brand new experience in which kids can not only watch their favorite animated TV show, but also play along to unleash the Rabbids’ silliness! While the episode is playing, children will interact alongside the Rabbids on their crazy adventures and mimic the Rabbids through fun-filled activities such as finding hidden objects, and various mini-games using touch, movement and voice controls.

Seven appisodes are now available for download from the Apple App Store.

Use app to untap Learning Potential!

A new $5 million Federal Government initiative saw then Minister for Education, Christopher Pyne, recently launch the FREE Learning Potential app.

“The Learning Potential app offers inspiring ways for parents, grandparents and carers to become more involved in their children’s learning, from the high chair to high school,” said Mr Pyne.

Parents can personalise the app for their children and importantly, it is completely private, no data is collected. Once personalised, the app will direct you to tips and ideas relevant to your child’s age group”, he added.

“A key part of a good education is having parents involved and supporting their children’s learning, and when schools and families work together, children do better and stay in school longer.” > australia.gov.au/learningpotential Download the app through iTunes or Google Play

Be your own tour guide with Australia Zoo app Australia Zoo has launched its brand new FREE mobile app on iTunes (Android coming soon!). Take a virtual tour through one of the country’s favourite attractions via fabulous, compelling imagery and audio, and with very easy navigation. You’ll discover lots of exciting animal facts, exhibit information, show times, locations and reminders, hints on how to book an encounter, where to enjoy lunch when you visit, activities and programs, day planner and more!

Free Wi-Fi Finder

While you’re on holidays, whip out your smartphone or tablet to instantly discover the closest FREE Wi-Fi Internet hotspots, wherever you are in the world - online or offline!

JiWire’s Global FREE Wi-Fi app uses your iPhone’s GPS and network triangulation capabilities to locate free Wi-Fi Internet access in over 145,000 locations worldwide. You can even filter results by location type e.g. café, library etc to ensure you find an appropriate, family-friendly hotspot.

New locations are added daily.

Available from iTunes and Google Play.

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DID YOU KNOW...?

Did you know …?

Airlines & Airports

Free Singapore Tour for transit travellers The popular Free Singapore Tour has been relaunched at Changi Airport, providing travellers in transit with the opportunity to spend time exploring Singapore during their stopovers. An initiative of the airport and Singapore Tourism Board, Changi is one of only four airports in the world to offer this service. Nine tours operate daily, so travellers who have never been to Singapore can have a brief experience of what the city offers – from attractions like the mesmerising Gardens by the Bay or the Singapore Flyer, to cultural precincts of Chinatown or Kampong Glam. The Free Singapore Tour trips run daily from 9am – 7pm. > yoursingapore.com

Park for less at Sydney Airport Parking at Sydney Airport is a lot cheaper than you think, thanks to the great discounts available when you book your airport parking online.

Whether you’re parking for one hour or one month, you’ll find big savings when booking online to park at Sydney Airport’s car parks - conveniently located at the T1 International and T2/T3 Domestic terminals. And for even bigger savings online, especially if you’re flying off on a domestic trip with the kids, head to the Blu Emu Car Park - the airport’s budget car park services the T2/T3 terminals and is just a short, free shuttle bus ride away.

Booking airport parking online is easy-peasy. Just jump onto Sydney Airport’s website, choose your car park and the dates you wish to park, and get a quote instantly. > prebook.sydneyairport.com.au

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© Shutterstock

New Mercure opens at Newcastle Airport Newcastle Airport now has its first – and only – hotel – with the August opening of the new $15 million, 95room Mercure Newcastle Airport. Featuring spacious family rooms, Foxtel, high-speed wireless broadband, iPod docking stations and sound-proofed guest rooms, the new Mercure provides a convenient and affordable accommodation option for families travelling through Newcastle Airport onto other destinations. Its convenient location is also at the gateway to some of the top family holiday spots in NSW including the Hunter Valley, Port Stephens and Central Coast regions. > mercurenewcastleairport.com.au

Airport info at the click of a mouse!

TripAdvisor has launched its dedicated airport pages, giving travellers around the world instant information about what to do, where to eat and where to stay at 200 major airports around the world.

The airport pages will feature reviews, ratings and other information about hotels nearby, as well as restaurants and attractions in both public and transit areas. Amenities including duty free stores, boutiques and airport lounges will also be listed.

TripAdvisor has already started rolling out world airports, starting with Singapore’s Changi, and Australian airport pages will feature Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Gold Coast, Townsville, Launceston and Cairns.

TripAdvisor airport pages will be available on all 45 TripAdvisor sites and in 28 languages globally and on the TripAdvisor mobile app around the world.

Save time and check-in online!

Save time and check-in online on your next family holiday to Fiji. The new service from Fiji Airways opens 24 hours before departure and closes four hours prior to departure, enabling customers to conveniently check-in without leaving home. fijiairways.com

“FOR GREAT VALUE

PARKING AT SYDNEY AIRPORT, PARK AT BLU EMU CAR PARK!”

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Did you know …?

Educational

Australian-M.A.DE … inspiring our youngest citizens

The Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka (M.A.D.E) is located on the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade in Victoria’s historic town of Ballarat, and is home to the symbolic Eureka Flag. Music, words, symbols and interactive multimedia stimulate the senses and inspire even the youngest of visitors to think about democracy, rights and freedoms - and the power that people have to make a difference in the world.

Kids can get involved at the colourful flag-drawing station where they can create and display their own designs. M.A.D.E also produces discovery worksheets to challenge youngsters to find certain digital and physical objects that are a part of the display.

M.A.D.E is surrounded by glorious parkland complete with a memorial walk, duck pond and a Eureka Stockade-themed playground. The onsite cafe serves a selection of pies, cakes and coffee with Australian bush food flavours and the gift shop is filled with an interesting collection of books, games and souvenirs. Themed programs each school holidays include self-guided craft activities, and all activities are free upon admission. > made.org

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Images © myfun.com.au Sea World

Our precious marine environment

© Questacon

Sea World has long been a must-visit during a Gold Coast family holiday – and not just for the rides, shows and attractions. This is Australia’s premier marine park where guests can interact with, and learn about, an amazing array of marine animals - polar bears and playful dolphins, seals and penguins, sharks, turtles and rays.

Sea World is so much more than just a theme park. With a commitment to educating the public about the precious marine environment, the park plays an active role in marine research and rescue through the not-forprofit Sea World Research & Rescue Foundation.

Children between the ages of 8 and 14 years can also play their part, through Sea World’s Junior Ambassador Program, designed especially for kids who would like to work with, and are passionate about, marine animals and conservation. Junior Ambassadors are provided with a unique opportunity to get up close with one of Sea World’s resident rescued seals, explore turtle rehabilitation and Polar Bear Shores behind the scenes. > seaworld.com.au > seaworld.com.au/adventures/animaladventures/junior-ambassador.aspx

Discover the smarter way to have fun at Questacon!

Get ready to experience science in extraordinary ways at Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre in Canberra! Bend your mind and muscle in Excite@Q as you free fall down a six-metre slide, battle a robot at air hockey or test your reflex speed against a friend.

Experience the power and beauty of our earth as you feel the force of an earthquake or let lightning spark your imagination in Awesome Earth. Inspire your inner scientist with Q Lab’s ever-changing array of intriguing experiments, explosive demonstrations and interesting displays.

No visit to Questacon is complete without watching – or even starring in – a Spectacular Science Show and, with over 200 hands-on exhibits in eight themed galleries, people of all ages can discover the smarter way to have fun!

Questacon is open 9am-5pm every day except Christmas Day. > questacon.edu.au SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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For some very special Christmas cruising times in the Fiji Islands... just add kids!

Spend real quality holiday time with the kids. Take them to sea, see a different Fiji. Fire up the imagination not the iPad (although we have wifi!). Take them with you on a magical mystical cruise in the Yasawa Islands with fresh salt sea air, endless activities and exploring. For them it’s an adventure, for you, total luxury with just 34 cabins, small ship cruising with Fiji Princess is like your own floating boutique hotel. Same exquisite service.

Same friendly smiles. Small enough to care, big enough to go anywhere. A different day, another bay. Snorkel, dive, swim with sharks and manta rays, guided hiking, visit sacred caves, uninhabited islands and island villages.

December 2015 Christmas Cruise dates: Friday 18th for a 3 or 7 night cruise and Monday 21st for a 4 night cruise.

Join your kids’ fun in the onboard splash pool. Followed by even more fun at the next beautiful beach.

Kids love our 100% Fijian crew, experience hospitality from the friendliest people in the world.

Visit some of the most secret places only accessible by small ship. Untouched Fiji.

BLC5811

Try the stand up paddle boards, kayaks, glass bottom boat, snorkelling and plenty more.

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REJUVENATE

info@bluelagooncruises.com

bluelagooncruises.com

D I D Y O U K NO W ...?

Did you know …?

Zoo Babies Baby boom

Zoo debut ♥ Two female snow leopard cubs were ♥ Cincinnati Zoo celebrated its born in June at Brookfield Zoo in 50th gorilla birth in August Chicago. The cubs – who currently when 14 year-old western weigh around 4.5kg each – are spending lowland gorilla, Anju, gave birth lots of quality time in a behind-theto a baby girl who keepers have scenes den with mum, Sarani. named Elle. This is the first baby for Anju whose pregnancy ♥ The UK’s ‘most visited zoo’, was closely monitored via Yorkshire’s Flamingo Land, has been regular ultrasounds that enable lucky enough to have several new the Zoo to build its Fetal Great babies born in recent months. The Ape Ultrasound Monitoring new additions include a female red Program, a database that will panda born in June, a female zebra provide useful information to foal born in July and a baby boom in the Gorilla Species Survival the lemur enclosure, with five of the Program. female lemurs giving birth to four healthy babies and one set of twins! ♥ Auckland Zoo has marked the start of spring with the birth of two new babies – the first male giraffe to be born since 2010, and the hatching of the first Kiwi chick of the season, weighing in at 357g! Auckland Zoo proudly plays a role in a conservation program called ‘Operation Nest Egg (O.N.E)’ where Kiwi eggs are brought to the Zoo for incubation and hatching.

Juju, Melbourne Zoo’s youngest baboon, born in May, made her debut in September – a moment that was especially exciting for keepers as Juju’s first few weeks of life were more difficult than expected. Juju is the first baby born in the group since 2000, and with no other mums to pass on parenting skills to Juju’s mother, Huddo, the tiny baboon was initially cared for by keepers until bonds could be built between the baby and the group.

A 7-month-old koala joey made her public debut at Victoria’s Werribee Open Range Zoo, venturing out to greet visitors, secure on her mum’s back. Soon enough she’ll feel comfortable enough to make short solo ‘outings’ – but for now you may be able to glimpse her poking out of mum’s pouch or enjoying a piggy-back!

Did you know... … Dreamworld on the Gold Coast offers exciting opportunities to get up close and personal with the inhabitants of Tiger Island? As well as feeding and walking (yes, walking!) the tigers, there is now also the chance to meet the super-cute tiger cub, Kai. Kai can be seen by visitors in his Tiger Island nursery from 10am to 5pm, or – for those wanting a closer encounter – book a VIP Tiger Cub Experience where you will join him for a photo and meet his handlers in a unique, group setting.

Bookings essential. > dreamworld.com.au

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Out & About with Kids was the only Australian magazine invited to visit Universal Studios Japan (USJ) for the unveiling of the incredible Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ in 4K3D ride. ELISA ELWIN brings you the flying fabulous fun details and tells you her top five reasons (and a few tips!) to visit Universal Studios Japan in Osaka.

TOP 5

Reasons to visit Universal Studios Japan

1

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™

2

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™ in 4K3D

Yes, This ride is what all the fuss is about.

USJ is proud to proclaim the ride is now in 4K3D, dramatically hi res, and now in 3D for the first time in the world. The queue for the ride could almost be a ride in itself, wending its way through Hogwarts™

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Images © Universal Studios Japan

Harry Potter fans head to USJ in droves, often bypassing the rest of the park to spend the day in the life size attraction, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™, designed specifically for Universal Studios. Through the entrance arch you are magically transported to Hogsmeade Village where you can wander the world finding all your favourites, including Ollivanders wand shop and a mug of delicious and sweet butter beer. You can also fly through the skies on the ride Flight of the Hippogriff™, a family-friendly rollercoaster that swoops and dives past Hagrid’s hut.

School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in magical Potter fashion before departing on a thrilling journey. Soar across the vast sky above Hogwarts™ at “apparent” high speeds and experience the thrilling immersive realism as the Golden Snitch™ flitters by as if within arm’s reach. This unrivalled attraction and its magical journey is full of thrills and excitement.

Inside tip: This ride has its scary moments for the younger set and may not suit those who experience motion sickness. Parent waiting and exchange areas are provided so one carer can sit with those family members too young or unable or unwilling to ride and quickly swap over allowing the other parent a fast access on the ride.

3

Water Surprise Parties

Get ready to cool down and get wet at the USJ famous ‘Water Surprise Parties - water cannons shooting streams 60 metres high, buckets and squirt guns. Keep dry out of the wet zone and watch from a distance, but all the fun is to be had in the party area so prepare to get soaked. And you are

invited to splash back! Join in a light-hearted water fight and look out for your favorite park characters, including Cookie Monster, Hello Kitty, Elmo and the new favourites: Minions.

4

Top Tips

5

Try and visit during the week and outside peak Japanese holidays to avoid the biggest crowds. Buy an Express Pass, well worth the extra dollars for the hours saved waiting in queues.

Biohazard: The Real 3

All the rides and shows are in Japanese. Makes for a totally

Something for the fright-loving teens and the adults. Take part in a zombie battle in the actual world of Biohazard. The USJ creative team has spared no expense to make a ‘screaming’ realistic zombie attack. You’ll fend off wave after wave of bloodthirsty creatures. Frightening hi tech fun!

new twist in Potter speak!

School holidays and weekends are busy as crowds fill this popular theme park.

Minions

The mischief-and-mayhem-loving Minions are adored in Japan. Friends and families dressed in matching Minion gear are everywhere and add to the fun of a day at USJ. You can indulge your Minion madness with Minion Mart and in Minion Plaza which sells, of course, Minion goods! And if that isn’t enough, eat your way through a Minion Chinese steamed bun or popcorn in a Minion shaped bucket.

usj.co.jp/e/ jnto.org.au kyoto.travel

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2015 BEST OF

FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS It’s that time of year again when we announce the worthy winners and fabulous finalists – as voted by YOU – in our annual Best of Family Travel Awards.

Thank you to all our readers for sharing your favourite family-friendly places and events so enthusiastically!

So … from camping spots, holiday parks, hotels and resorts and cruises, to attractions and events - both here in Australia and overseas – we’re delighted to present the READERS’ CHOICE Winners and Finalists in Out & About with Kids BEST OF FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS 2015…

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2015 BEST OF

Murray River, VIC

Best Australian Family Holiday Park

© NRMA Treasure Island Resort

WINNER NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park, Gold Coast, QLD FINALISTS NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park, Umina, NSW

NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park, QLD

Blue Dolphin Holiday Resort, Yamba, NSW NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Park, Merimbula, NSW Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort, QLD

Best Australian Camping Spot

Best Family Hotel or Resort

WINNER Murray River, VIC & Wilsons Promontory, VIC

WINNER Paradise Resort, Gold Coast, QLD

FINALISTS Fraser Island, QLD Grampians, VIC

FINALISTS Sea World Resort & Water Park, Gold Coast, QLD

Byron Bay, NSW

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, FIJI

Jervis Bay, NSW

Daydream Island Resort & Spa, Whitsundays, QLD

Paradise Resort, Gold Coast, QLD

© Murray Regional Tourism

FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS

Turtle Beach Resort, Gold Coast, QLD Fairmont Resort, Leura, NSW

BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama, NSW BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort Airlie Beach, QLD

© Paradise Resort

BIG4 Renmark Riverfront Holiday Park, SA

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Sea World Resort & Waterpark, Gold Coast, QLD

Best Australian Family Attraction WINNER Sea World Resort & Waterpark, Gold Coast, QLD FINALISTS Dreamworld, Gold Coast, QLD

Wet n Wild, Gold Coast, QLD Taronga Zoo, NSW Melbourne Zoo, VIC

Best Beach or Regional Holiday Destination

Best Australian city for families

WINNER Gold Coast, QLD

FINALISTS Sydney, NSW

FINALISTS Noosa, QLD

WINNER Melbourne, VIC

Brisbane, QLD

Bondi, NSW

Canberra, ACT

Byron Bay, NSW

Adelaide, SA

© eastershow.com.au

Warner Bros. Movie World, Gold Coast, QLD

© Sea World Resort

Australia Zoo, Beerwah, QLD

Sydney Royal Easter Show, NSW

Best family event or activity WINNER Sydney Royal Easter Show, NSW FINALISTS Vivid Sydney, NSW

Port Douglas, QLD

Royal Melbourne Show, VIC

Whitsundays, QLD

Gold Coast Theme Parks, QLD

Hyams Beach, NSW

Beach

Port Macquarie, NSW

Camping

Torquay, VIC

AFL

© Gold Coast Tourism

Gold Coast, QLD

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2015 BEST OF

FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS Best Australian Animal Attraction

Carnival Cruise Line

WINNER Australia Zoo, Beerwah, QLD FINALISTS Taronga Zoo, NSW Melbourne Zoo, VIC

© Carnival Cruise Line

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo, NSW Sea World Resort & Water Park, Gold Coast, QLD Werribee Zoo, Werribee South, VIC Healesville Sanctuary, Healesville, VIC Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Gold Coast, QLD Featherdale Wildlife Park, Blacktown, NSW Mogo Zoo, Mogo, NSW

Best Family Ski Resort Australia or overseas

Best family cruise line

WINNER Thredbo, NSW

FINALISTS P&O

FINALISTS Perisher, NSW Mt Buller, VIC Queenstown, NZ Mt Hotham, VIC Whistler, CANADA

© Thredbo.com.au

Thredbo, NSW

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WINNER Carnival Cruise Line

Royal Caribbean Disney Cruise Line

© Outrigger Fiji

© Castaway Island Fiji

Castaway Island, FIJI

Outrigger Fiji beach Resort, FIJI

Best International destination for families

Best Hotel or Resort for babies and toddlers

WINNER Fiji

WINNER Castaway Island, FIJI

WINNER Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, FIJI

FINALISTS Disneyland, Anaheim, USA

FINALISTS Paradise Resort, Gold Coast, QLD

FINALISTS Castaway Island, FIJI

USA

Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort, FIJI

Bali, Indonesia

Sea World Resort & Water Park, Gold Coast, QLD

Rarotongan Beach Resort and Spa, COOK ISLANDS

Singapore

Best Pacific Islands Family Hotel/Resort

Malolo Island Resort, FIJI

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, FIJI

Plantation Island Resort, FIJI

Sheraton Fiji Resort, FIJI

Warwick Le Lagon, VANUATU

Bali Dynasty Resort, Bali, INDONESIA

Best Family Hotel/ Resort in Asia

© Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket

WINNER Centara Grand Beach Resort, Phuket, THAILAND

FINALISTS Bali Dynasty Resort, Bali, INDONESIA Disneyland Hotel, HONG KONG Legoland Hotel, Johor, MALAYSIA

Centara Grand Beach Resort, Phuket, THAILAND

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2015 BEST OF

FAMILY TRAVEL AWARDS

Disneyland, Anaheim, USA

Best Family Hotel/ Resort in the USA, Africa or Europe

Best International Family Attraction

WINNER Disneyland Hotel, Anaheim, USA

FINALISTS Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida, USA

FINALISTS Outrigger on the Beach Waikiki, Hawaii, USA Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Walt Disney World Resort, Florida, USA Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa, Hawaii, USA Sun City, North West Province, SOUTH AFRICA

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WINNER Disneyland, Anaheim, USA

Universal Studios, Hollywood, USA Legoland, Johor, MALAYSIA Universal Studios, Osaka, JAPAN

© Disney

© Disney

Disneyland Hotel, Anaheim, USA

Be free at Malolo!

Malolo Island Resort is about a bure near the beach, surrounded by the world’s friendliest people with a living and authentic culture. Perfect for families and couples alike, you can fill your day with a myriad of activities or simply unwind and do nothing at all.

Year round choose from F$200 resort credits, Kids Eat FREE with 5 night stays, or between November and March, stay 5 nights and get an extra night FREE! Malolo. This is the way the world should be.

AHU577/M-OAWK

T +679 672 0978 | enquiries@ahuraresorts.com www.maloloisland.com

AUD$ from

260*

For reservations and information visit www.maloloisland.com

per person

*Conditions apply. Approx rates only – check daily FOREX rates.

for free transfers y, la p y, ta s : s e d lu c In

& meals *

PLUS

Stay 5 nights and only pay for 3!* *Hurry book now, sales end 30 November 2015

www.plantationisland.com email: reserve@plantationisland.com

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Fabulous

Fiji Nadi/Denarau • Hotel Mercure Nadi mercure.com • Novotel Fiji/ novotel.com • Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island radissonblu.com/en/resort.fiji • Sheraton Fiji Resort sheratonfiji.com • Sheraton Denarau Villas sheratondenarauvillas.com • Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa sofitel.com/Fiji-Denarau • The Westin Denarau Island Resort & Spa westindenarauisland.com • Wyndham Resort Denarau Island wyndhamap.com

Coral Coast • InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa intercontinental.com/Fiji • Naviti Resort warwickhotels.com/Fiji-resort • Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort outrigger.com/fiji • Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa shangri-la.com/yanucaisland/ fijianresort • The Warwick Fiji warwickhotels.com/Fiji-resort

Mamanuca Islands • Castaway Island castawayfiji.com • Malolo Island Resort maloloislandcom • Mana Island Resort manafiji.com • Musket Cove Island Resort musketcovefiji.com • Plantation Island Resort plantationisland.com • Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki Island sheratontokorikiisland.com • Treasure Island Resort treasureisland-fiji.com

Yasawa Islands • Blue Lagoon Beach Resort bluelagoonbeachresort.com.fj • Paradise Cove Resort paradisecoveresortfiji.com • Yasawa Island Resort & Spa yasawa.com

Savusavu • Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort fijiresort.com • Koro Sun Resort korosun.com

Taveuni • Paradise Taveuni Resort paradiseinfiji.com

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Š Tourism Fiji

FIJ I

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Ramada Couran Cove Island Resort Location Ramada Couran Cove Island Resort Gold Coast is situated on South Stradbroke Island, just a 25-minute ferry ride, from Hope Harbour Marina, along the Coomera River.

The Marina is (approximately) a 40-minute drive from Coolangatta Airport, 50 minutes from Brisbane city and 10 hours’ drive from Sydney CBD. Accommodation The island lifestyle at Ramada Couran Cove provides a true getaway from everyday life, - you will feel like you’re hundreds of kilometres away from the bustle of city life. Accommodation options are wide and varied, with solutions for all types of families.

Out & About with Kids stayed in a Studio Apartment, which was spacious, modern and well-appointed, and the inclusion of a sofa bed makes this room a great option for families with one child. The highlight was the private deck overlooking the marina, with a peaceful and relaxing vista just perfect for enjoying a morning coffee!

We were lucky enough to be escorted by the resort’s general manager on a tour of other accommodation types with a standout being the 4 bedroom villas, which where more like a holiday house complete with kitchen, two bathrooms, fireplace and an oversize balcony overlooking the Broadwater.

The resort also offers ECO cabins, 2 bedroom apartments and 1 bedroom apartments.

Activities The team at the resort have placed a real emphasis on providing a huge array of activities that are complemented by the resort’s unique location. You’ll find 28kms of cycling and walking tracks (the resort offers bike hire or you can take your own), mini-golf, kids club, playground, shuffle-board, ping pong, lawn bowls, indoor cricket and plenty more! Many activities are complimentary, however some attract a small fee.

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Food & Beverage Some resorts have limited dining options.

At Ramada Couran Cove this is not the case. Three separate dining options are on offer, the hero being the aptly named ‘The Restaurant’, which offers fresh seafood and delectable Modern Australian cuisine. We can attest to the breakfast served at ‘The Pool Side Café’ - fit for a king - and at the open-all-day ‘Boardwalk Café’ you can enjoy refreshments and snacks well into the evening. The resort also has a great general store, which has plenty of the everyday needs you may require including breakfast foods, snacks, nappies and assorted toiletries.

Recommended Visit Traditionally in reviews we would suggest you venture out to a local attraction or destination, however with Ramanda Couran Cove we simply recommend you immerse yourself in the resort and all it offers - be it a walk through the beautiful and tranquil rainforest, or attempting stand up paddle boarding in the lagoon.

OAWK Tip: A special treat for the family is a 20-minute Surfers Paradise helicopter fly over. The helicopter lands at the resort and takes you down the coast around Surfers Paradise. It’s a unique and a stunning way to see the Gold Coast.

Water Fun Water plays a big part in your holiday at Ramada Couran Cove, and water sports are plentiful. Try both swimming pools, take a dip in the blue water of the resort’s lagoon or walk the 2km to the beach and go fishing off the marina or the beach. Jet skis and water skiing are both available (age restrictions apply) for hire so more adventurous types can really explore the Broadwater.

Ecotourism Ramada Couran Cove Island Resort is committed to ecotouirism and the resort has been developed to reflect that ethos. The traditional owners of the land belong to the Noonuckle, the Goenpul,

the Quandamooka and the Kombamerri indigenous tribes, and Couran Cove takes its name from Couran, or Quaran - an Indigenous word the various tribes ascribe as meaning ‘Moreton Bay ash’, ‘eldest brother’ or ‘dugong skirt. The guiding motto for everyone involved with designing and building the Resort was how nature would have had it, sharing the vision of combining the Australian ‘bush and beach’ holiday destination in an ecofriendly, sustainable undertaking using the natural settings of South Stradbroke Island as the template.

All materials are from sustainable resources, in particular the use of timber and glass. All cabins have solar hot water units and the verandah roof reflects light and air across the curved ceilings.

The architecture utilises natural airflows, materials and lighting which has contributed to an overall reduction of 85% in greenhouse gas emissions within the Resort in comparison to a similar sized conventional Island Resort, and 75% compared to a typical mainland household.

Ramada Couran Cove Island Resort provides a leading example of large scale Ecotourism through design, construction and operation, with accomplishments earning national and international awards as well as an impressive Advanced Ecotourism certification.

Ramada Couran Cove Island Resort South Stradbroke Island Marina: 60 Sickle Ave, Hope Island, QLD 4212 P: 07 5597 9999 E: reservations@courancove.com.au courancove.com.au

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The Peninsula Tokyo, Japan Location The hotel is 68km from Narita Airport in the Chiyoda prefecture of Tokyo. You can pre- book a car to collect you, but transportation is easy and reasonable on either the Japan train line ($14 pp.) or the limousine bus transfer direct to the hotel at $35 pp. Both options take just over an hour. limousinebus.co.jp/en/bus_services Accommodation On arrival at the Peninsula Hotel, your bags are whisked away as you are directed to the check-in desk through The Lobby restaurant. The design is perfectly described as ‘international in design, but Japanese by inspiration.’ With a range of superior rooms, up to high-end suites, accommodation here bears the hallmark of the luxury made famous by the Peninsula brand. We recommend a suite for the extra spread room for your family. The spacious rooms are sumptuous, with a small dining table and a sofa. They are filled with every amenity, electronic feature and comfort.

The bathroom was amazing with a double sink, tv, deep bathtub and very large separate shower. Out & About with Kids was introduced to the absolute luxury of Japanese toilets - automatic lids, warmed seats, flush and spray buttons, amongst many other extraordinary features. The dressing room was enourmous and held all our cases easily. There was a Lavazza coffee machine, Japanese tea making, juices and fresh fruit offered daily. All you would expect from a five star hotel, complemented by impeccable service.

There is a beautiful swimming pool with spectacular views over the gardens, plus a spa and gym. Please check the times when children are allowed, and get ready to don the compulsory swimming caps!

OAWK Tip: Make sure you inform the hotel of the ages of your children on booking. Your room will be ready with everything you need from a snack hamper, cots and nappy dispensers to loan strollers, colouring books and junior amenities including bathrobes and slippers in exactly the right size.

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Explore Peninsula Tokyo Hotel is in a wonderful position. Directly opposite Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace, with magical views from many rooms and the hotel pool. The hotel is right in the centre of the high-end, designer Ginza shopping district.

Transportation is easy, too. Hibiya subway station is right under the hotel (the Tokyo subway system is very efficient and simple to figure out) and Tokyo Station with its bullet trains and more shopping just a 10 minute walk away.

Why we stayed there To find Pokémon! – The Pokémon Hotel Adventure THE POWER OF TEN (exclusively designed for The Peninsula Tokyo by the Pokémon Company) made this a simple choice. Guests five years and up will be issued with their own set of adventure goods at check-in, including a Pikachu hat, a special Poke Ball, a magnifying glass, a copy of The Pokémon Times and a detective’s journal and map, to find ten separate clue locations in order. The adventure is to solve the mystery of where the Pokémon have been magically transported. Instructions are helpfully provided in English.

This is an enthralling two-hour adventure leading you to (spoiler alert) a secret chamber within the hotel, especially designed for a climactic ending that includes a face-to-face magic encounter with all your favourite Pokémon characters!

OAWK Tip: Book the Pokémon Hotel Adventure: The Power of Ten package with room benefits. Guests who book this package receive two Pikachu hats, two original Pageboy Pikachu plush dolls, daily American breakfast for three and complimentary roll-away bed for triple occupancy, among other benefits.

Food & Beverage From classic to contemporary, The Peninsula Tokyo offers guests a selection of dining options including the

celebrated Peninsula Afternoon Tea in The Lobby, and casual continental fare at The Peninsula Boutique & Café, to refined Cantonese cuisine at Hei Fung Terrace and the centuries-old art of Kaiseki at Kyoto Tsuruya. Breakfast was sensational, we tried the traditional Japanese set one morning and the tasty Chinese set the next.

OAWK Tip: Book a baby sitter for the evening and treat yourself to a sensational meal at the signature restaurant ‘Peter’. Head up on the dedicated elevator and start with a cocktail at the bar. Then relax and enjoy the spectacular night views across to the Imperial palace whilst being wined and dined in world class standard.

Recommended Visit Tokyo Disneyland – an easy train ride to experience Disney in Japan. All your Disney favourites with a Japanese twist including ‘Tokyo Disney Sea’, only in Japan. tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/

The Peninsula Tokyo 1-8-1 Yurakucho, Chiyoda 100-0006, Tokyo Prefecture tokyo.peninsula.com/en/

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ADULTS @ KIDS PRICES* All guests $35 - save $14!

Present this voucher upon ticket purchase at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to redeem!

Blinky Bill and friends now call Currumbin Home!

Featuring in 2 shows and making 2 appearances daily, Blinky and his friends provide plenty of fun and smiles to kids of all ages.

www.cws.org.au | 1300 886 511 28 Tomewin Street, Currumbin, Queensland Only 20 minutes from Surfers Paradise!

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*Not valid with any other offer. Valid until 31/03/16. Day admission only. Excludes Treetops high ropes course and Segway Safari.

Upgrades for both available at the gate. Open 8am - 5pm daily. Closed Christmas and ANZAC Day. PLU A 11876 CH 11878 CN 214

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Mantra Sun City, Surfers Paradise, QLD Location Mantra Sun City is located at the northern end of Surfers Paradise and set one block back from Main Beach, just a 30 minute drive from Gold Coast Airport, an hour’s drive from Brisbane and 10 hours from Sydney.

Accommodation Mantra Sun City offers a variety of accommodation options - from a hotel room with a king bed, to two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses that sleep six to eight guests.

Out & About with Kids stayed in a two bedroom apartment and, on opening the door, it’s no understatement to say we where astounded by the sheer size of the living area! The couch could seat a cricket team and despite the eight-seater dining table, there was still ample living space, augmented by a spacious balcony. As for the kitchen – well it looked like it could cater for a banquet. The hallway from the living spaces leads to a fully-equipped laundry and a bedroom with two single beds, good-sized built-ins and a bathroom directly across the hall. The master bedroom was super-impressive with a fabulous walk-in wardrobe and ensuite with generous double sinks!

All in all, our first impressions of Mantra Sun City are incredible and we know that we will be more than merely comfortable during our stay.

OAWK Tip: The friendly Reception staff will give you all the information you need for your fun family holiday Gold Coast theme park adventures!

Explore The resort is located only minutes’ walk to Main Beach’s famous surf and sand, however, if you want to explore Surfers Paradise, the new Gold Coast light rail stops outside the front of Mantra Sun City giving you easy and quick access to Cavill Ave, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, Southport and Broadbeach. The resort can also organise your family outings to all of the famous Gold Coast theme parks, including transfers.

Food & Beverage The resort’s restaurant, aptly named Koastal Kitchen, offers modern Australian dining for dinner and an extensive gourmet breakfast spread. It is located on the ground floor through the lobby, and dinner here is a must.

Room service is also available and perfect for those lazy nights in, or restful mornings where you may want breakfast delivered.

OAWK Tip: Hot chocolate pudding, praline sand, vanilla bean ice cream.

Need we say more? Delicious.

Resort round up It wasn’t until we checked out the view from our balcony that we noticed the expansive beach-style pool below, and its special feature that will draw the kids in – not one, but two waterslides! You’ll also find tennis courts, an indoor pool, gym, games room and a bar serving icecream, early evening drinks and even hot chips. Onsite parking is available and the friendly staff manning the 24hour reception desk were always willing to help.

Did you know...

Mantra has Australia and New Zealand covered with over 100 properties, and you’ll find a Mantra for every family, no matter the shape or size!

Visit mantra.com.au to find a property and packages for your next family holiday.

Mantra Sun City, Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast Qld 3400 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 P: (07) 5584 6000 E: suncity.res@mantra.com.au mantrasuncity.com.au

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Discover this land, like never before.

Ten Thousand Islands, Florida

Kids in America!

We LOVE keeping you up-to-date with holiday ideas for families, and the USA is one of those incredible destinations offering endless opportunities for exploring, adventures and fun, and building trip-of-a-lifetime family memories.

K

ids and America go together like ketchup on a hot dog!

Discover what it’s like to be a guest on a dedicated Disney Cruise, where the Disney magic never ends; take a look around the state of Minnesota with BIG things in abundance and boasting ’10,000 Lakes’; and follow the winners of our ‘7 Days Are Not Enough’ competition’ in their day-by-day account of family thrills at Disneyland in California, Universal Studios Hollywood, LEGOLAND, SeaWorld San Diego and other awesome attractions!

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© Disney

Disney Ahoy!

Why you should make your family Disney Dreams come true on the high seas

Out and About with Kids is the only Australian magazine to be invited aboard a Disney Dream cruise in the Bahamas, sailing for four wonderful days across the crystal blue seas with stops on the incredible Disney-owned Castaway Island and Nassau, the Bahaman capital. Fully immerse yourself in five star fabulous Disney, where Mickey and the gang rule the waves and, from dawn to bedtime, the action never stops – and if you want more, a Disney Cruise is the perfect partner to a Walt Disney World family holiday in Florida. We loved every special minute onboard and here is our list of reasons why your family will too!

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‘Cos they’re happy!

Kids squealing with delight in pools, at the movies, meeting beloved Disney characters, spending time with new friends, and parents enjoying the excitement with their children, or soaking up some guilt-free adult time in the designated zones, knowing their youngsters were having a ball, and being tended to with true care. Everyone was happy! Disney staff members exude genuine happiness knowing they work for one of the most supportive and forward- thinking companies in the world, and they clearly LOVE their jobs. There were even three wedding proposals on our cruise - now that’s everlasting happiness!!

You’ll love every bite From pool-side easy eats to 24 hour room service, plus endless buffets designed to tempt everyone from the smallest fussy eater to the most fastidious gourmet, the food is outstanding. Dining aboard the Disney Dream gives kids the choice of three magically-themed restaurants, with an evening dining rotation to let you experience each - The Enchanted Garden, The Royal Palace and our hands down favourite, The Animator’s Palate, with full size video screens and the characters from “Finding Nemo” joining you for dinner (the “awesome dude” Crush has his cruisy conversation delighting everyone.)

You will rest easy There are 1,250 staterooms to accommodate 4000 passengers, incorporating Disney touches everywhere. The internal, spacious staterooms even have Magic Portholes showing

© Disney

K I D S I N A MER IC A

a live feed to the outside sea, with your favourite characters flying and floating by, and a nightly twinkle of stars above the children’s bunk beds. The split bathroom design includes two sinks and, a rarity on cruise lines, a bath!

Stay cool

Disney Dream has three sparkling pools - Mickey’s Pool for kids, Donald’s Pool for families and Quiet Cove just for adults.

There is a dedicated Nemo’s Reef splash area for younger guests spraying, misting and sprinkling water, and a perfect-sized stingray waterslide.

Not to be missed is the AquaDuck, the first water coaster on any cruise ship that loops and swoops taking riders over the edge of the ship before recovering in a lazy river exit. Ride the AquaDuck at sunset, it is especially beautiful when the lights are on, creating a colorful and glowing attraction. There is a height requirement for Aquaduck, so little ones can happily enjoy the yellow slide at Mickey’s Pool without missing any water thrills!

Kid clubs for all From babies to teens Disney cruise lines have all young sailors covered in one of the most extensive and exciting dedicated kids programs in the cruise industry.

It’s a Small World Nursery for infants and toddlers ages three months to three years offers just the right entertainment, and a tranquil sleeping zone at the back.

Kids three to ten have the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab, and are free to wander between the two. The Oceaneer Club is aimed at the younger group with spaces including Andy’s Room from Toy Story, Pixie Hollow from Tinker Bell, the Explorer Pod from Finding Nemo, and Monster’s Academy for fans of Monsters, Inc. The Oceaneer Lab encourages kids to unleash their creativity, inventing computer-animated characters in the Animator’s Studio or recording hits in the Song Studio.

Never to be ignored are the tweens and teens, roaming the ship in happy groups and making their way to the dedicated club areas of Edge for Tweens and Vibe for Teens

Peace of mind Disney knows safety is paramount so every child is issued with a special wristband for checking in and out of kid’s spaces. Then there are also the Away Phones, two per room, so everyone can keep in touch via complimentary talk or text.

Child-free fun We met many adults enjoying their Disney Cruise without any kids in tow.

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Spectacular fireworks!

Endless entertainment and activities for the whole family If eating, swimming, exploring the ship, spa and the kids clubs don’t fill your days, the digital 3D movie theatre, and Broadway-calibre performances in the Walt Disney Theatre, performed at least twice a day, are only some of the great entertainment options available on a Disney cruise.

Not to be missed - the party starter Sail-Away Celebration

Get dressed up and ready for the Pirate Night! The excitement begins with a pirate-themed dinner and continues with a buccaneer bash—starring some favorite Disney characters of course—and a spectacular fireworks display. The ocean is protected, with fireworks made from food-based products so fish can eat the residue. The grand finale is Sea Ya’ Real Soon rather than a sad farewell, so you can celebrate your cruise with singing, dancing fun and, yes, all of your favourite Disney characters!

Sublime Island Adventures Our cruise had a full day of fun on Castaway Cay. Settle on one of the gorgeous beaches and then enjoy your island day. Pelican Plunge and Spring-a-Leak are just two water play areas on the family paradise.

For an extra special island experience book a Port Adventure. Choose from glass-bottom boat tours, parasailing and fishing and more. Lucky us, we joined the Stingray Adventure lagoon experience and hand-fed, and snorkelled above, just a couple of the 60 or more calm stingrays that call Castaway Cay home. Used to being fed and cared for, they hover up to floating feeding stations for shrimp treats. Be reassured their barbs are safely and painlessly trimmed, and these glorious sea creatures are not dangerous.

Make sure to book your Port Adventure before landing on Castaway Cay, as these are popular.

Australian families rank Disney as the top destination for a family holiday. A Disney Cruise will soon top this list. From the minute you board, to the rounds of welcoming applause by the crew “cast members”, to the farewell hugs from newfound friends as you disembark - a real life Disney Dream come true!

© Disney

opportunities and spaces for parents to have a break from the children. Refresh in the Senses Spa, have a date night in Palo and Remy the two fine dining restaurants, nightclubs, enjoy live music and cabaret shows and more. We highly recommend a look, or stay, on the gorgeous stretch of beach of Serenity Cove, the Castaway Cay over 18s beach.

Disney Cruise Line > disneycruise.disney.go.com Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando Florida > disneyworld.disney.go.com SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Š Disney

Discover this land, like never before

Four big Parks, one world of dreams.

At Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, Disney fantasies come to life. Amazing discoveries ignite imaginations.

Nonstop Hollywood action thrills. Exotic adventures roar with excitement. It’s a dream holiday only Disney magic can create. Find out more at DisneyParks.com.au

K I D S IN A MER IC A

Monumental Minnesota!

The magnificent American state of Minnesota is about as ‘mid-west’ as it gets. But there’s nothing ‘middle of the road’ about the “Land of 10,000 Lakes”, says MARK WILLIAM SHEEHAN.

M

innesota covers over 200,000 square kilometres, has more glaciallycarved lakes than any other state in the USA, and some of the nicest folks on the planet. Your kids will thank you for visiting this familyfriendly state for many great reasons, including the fact that things really Are BIG (!) here. Without delving too deep, we’ve thrown down a few samples to whet your BIG, adventurous appetite for a family holiday in Minnesota.

Any Minnesota holiday starts with the shopping!

Yep … Minnesota is home to the biggest (and bestest!) shopping mall under one roof in the entire USA. The Mall of America, in Bloomington, is only a baseball-toss from the Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport. ‘MOA’ attracts shoppers like cats-to-nip, boasting an entire indoor amusement park, LEGOLAND™, a baker’s dozen movie and cinema complexes, neon-lit bowling alleys, an aquarium and CSI adventures - and that’s just for starters. There are also over 200 eateries, including The Hard Rock Café, and a food court that covers an entire menu security-blanket for everyone’s palate.

Radisson Blu Hotel in Bloomington

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Lafayette is at the heart of Louisiana’s Cajun & Creole Country, an area where fun is synonymous with family. With our unique blend of food, music and culture it’s no wonder families are heading down south with a smile on their face.

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LAFAYETTETRAVEL.COM /HAPPY

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Minnesota Children’s Museum in Saint Paul Nearby are plenty of great places to stay but we think you should bed down in the Mall itself. The Radisson Blu is joined to MOA at the ankle. We thought we’d struggle to spend three days at the Mall but we were wrong. Very wrong. It’s simply awesome!

Rent Wheels and explore!

We rented an ALAMO™ ‘people mover’ with heaps of boot space for the shopping.

Hire cars in the USA feature all the creature comforts, unlimited mileage and Collision Damage Waiver, so shop around. ‘Gasoline’ still idles around half the price of any petrol pump in Australia, making it an economical and comfortable way for families to explore Minnesota together.

Just stick a pin in the map ‘Proper planning prevents poor performance’, and with this in mind, we rolled out the road map of Minnesota and started putting pins in all the must-see and BIG things we intended to eye-ball. Once the Minnesota map resembled a pin cushion, we then connected the dots to all the BIG places we had on our BIG Bucket List.

This is great fun, and your family can enjoy the planning long before you close your front door and pet the cat goodbye. Try it! > roadsideamerica.com/map/mn

Glorious and ghostly Hotels & BIG roadside revelations As a family, we set off to try and sleep across the state of ‘10,000 lakes’, and stay in as many haunted hotels as we could conjure. Mysterious Minnesota boasts some

of the best ghostly-occupied hotels and Inns anywhere in America. Tour companies now offer specialty travel tours to get guests close to ghostly bedsprings. Don’t be alarmed if your bed levitates, it only happened to us twice: once at the Calumet Inn, and the other at the famous St. James Hotel in Red Wing on the Mississippi Riverfront… which also happens to be home to the biggest ‘boot in the world’!

The friendly town of Red Wing is also famous for the legendary company that created Red Wing Work Boots. Buy a pair of their all-leather, foot friendly boots and you’re safely set for life - but the best boot of all is one that stands here, about three storeys high. It’s a size 166!

Minnesota also boasts the largest Crow in the world, in Belgrade, and the biggest ball of Twine Rolled by One Man, in Darwin. American folk hero Paul Bunyon and Babe the ox are also immortalised on a grand scale in Minnesota, in several locations, poses and sizes. Keep your eyes peeled for the giant lumberjack on your travels!

From the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul (make sure you call into the famous Minnesota Children’s Museum in St Paul) you can easily follow the Mississippi River, and spread out in all directions to discover the BIG state parks, forests, prairies, lakes, towns, cities and fun of Greater Minnesota.

Previous page clockwise from top left: Interstate State Park on the St Croix River Minneapolis skyline along the Mississippi River Minnesota Childrens Museum Paul Bunyon and Babe the Blue Ox in Bemidji Above: The Mall of America All images © Explore Minnesota Tourism Photo

> exploreminnesota.com > mallofamerica.com > radissonblu.com/en/hotel-mall-of-america > alamo.com SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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$100

off admission

3-Day Park Hopper® Ticket to Disneyland® Park and Disney California Adventure® Park

©2015 The LeGo Group

SeaWorld® San Diego

LegoLanD® California

Buy at these attractions - Good for 14 days - Skip most ticket lines

2015-2016 savings advertised.

Visit citypass.com for current details.

ATLANTA | bosToN | CHICAGo | dALLAs | HousToN | New York CITY | PHILAdeLPHIA sAN FrANCIsCo | seATTLe | souTHerN CALIForNIA | TAmPA bAY | ToroNTo Prices and programs subject to change.

K I D S IN A MER IC A

9

Days of Attractions

in Anaheim and Orange County!

THE HEWITT FAMILY could not believe their luck when Out & About with Kids informed them that they were the winners of our awesome ‘Seven Days Are Not Enough’ competition. Their prize? Family passes to some of the best attractions to be found in the USA – a whirlwind of excitement for all in California’s famed Anaheim/Orange County!

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DENVER, COLORADO Gateway to Family Fun & Adventure!

Denver, Colorado, is a walkable, outdoor city offering urban adventures, from hiking and biking to art, culture and family attractions. The brilliant blue skies, 300 days of sunshine and magnificent views of the Rocky Mountains inspire all ages to explore The Mile High City. Find out more at VISITDENVER.com

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xploring Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Universal Studios, SeaWorld and LEGOLAND, mum Sue, dad Alan and sons Zac and Hayden had the time of their life – and share with us Sue’s diary of their wonderful holiday!

Day 1 We checked in to The Anabella Hotel in Anaheim, and our first stop that night was the Pirate’s Dinner Adventure. We had amazing front row seats and both the boys were invited to be involved in the entertainment. Mind-blowing fun!!

Day 2 After breakfast, we headed off to Disney California Adventure for the day. It was a great time of the year to visit, the weather was beautiful and we were pleasantly surprised at the minimal queues.

We only had to use the FASTPASS option for our second time on the Radiator Springs Racers (which was Hayden’s favourite ride). Zac’s favourite ride was The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror! We stayed until after dark, enjoying dinner at the Carthay Circle restaurant.

Day 3 Today we visited the classic Disneyland! It was a very full and special day, and we returned at night to watch Fantasmic! Zac and Dad’s favourite ride was Space Mountain, while Hayden couldn’t decide between Goofy’s Sky School and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. My favourite was definitely Peter Pan’s Flight!

Day 4 Previous page: Universal Studios in Los Angeles, California © Asif Islam / Shutterstock.com

World of Disney

Above: Meet Snoopy at Knott’s Berry Farm © Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau.

Catalina Island was our destination – after the Karmel shuttle transfer to Long Beach, we boarded the Catalina Express. On our journey to the island we saw a huge number of dolphins, a sea lion and plenty of bird life. We enjoyed a great lunch at Mr Ning’s Chinese restaurant, and then Zac and Alan went on the Zip Line Eco Tour, while Hayden and I relaxed on the beach.

There was time for plenty of shop browsing before a beachfront dinner, and then we relaxed on the ride home. We all agreed that you could spend days on the island enjoying all the activities, mixed in with time just relaxing and recharging.

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KI DS IN A MER ICA

All images © Anaheim Orange County Visitor and Convention Bureau

Legoland

Day 5 The day started with a scenic drive on a Southern California Gray Line coach to LEGOLAND, which was a fantastic park. Hayden especially enjoyed it, as he was brave enough for all the rides. Granny’s apple fries, which I think are unique to LEGOLAND, are delicious too! We also visited the waterpark, where the boys got drenched to cool off, and finished the day checking out the aquarium.

Day 6 Today we had a brilliant time at Universal Studios!

There was great commentary by the coach driver on our way through LA and it made the journey fly by. Our favourite ride at Universal Studios was Transformers - The Ride 3D. Our time at Universal Studios was incredible fun for everyone … the backlot tour, The Simpsons Ride, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, all so much fun! And the King Kong 360 3D was incredible!

Day 7 We returned to Disneyland, using the Park Hopper ticket option to re-do our favourite rides … with Hayden plucking up the courage to do The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. There is so much to see and do at Disneyland – there’s no such thing as too much time!

Day 8 We met with Vanessa from Pacific Coast Sightseeing

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Tours & Charters, who did a fantastic job organising our park transfers. Knott’s Berry Farm was great and we all did our first reverse loops on rollercoasters!

It was a really hot California day, so once again we were pleasantly surprised by the minimal wait times for all the rides. We enjoyed dinner just down the road at Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament and it was a fun and relaxing way to finish the day!

Day 9 Our last day and we headed to SeaWorld San Diego for another day of blue skies and fun.

Hayden especially loved The Manta rollercoaster, and the dolphin show was amazing.

Our prize-winning holiday was the family trip of a lifetime, and we certainly discovered that seven days in Anaheim/Orange County are not enough … we had nine days and could easily have stayed longer, re-visiting favourites and discovering new experiences. It was an amazing holiday for our family, laying down lifelong memories of happy times together, enjoying just some of the brilliant things to see and do in this glorious part of America.

Our special thanks go to Out & About with Kids for this fabulous opportunity and also to Pepe Avila from Anaheim/Orange County Visitor & Convention Bureau. Pepe spent so much time putting together this wonderful prize package and made our holiday completely stress-free.

Thanks And the whole family thanks all the generous contributors who made this holiday such a wonderful experience.

Karmel Shuttle Service and Southern California Coach karmel.com Anabella Hotel in Anaheim anabellahotel.com Pirates Dinner Adventure, Buena Park piratesdinneradventureca.com Disneyland Resort disneyland.disney.go.com Pacific Coast Sightseeing Tours & Charters southerncaliforniagrayline.com Catalina Express catalinaexpress.com LEGOLAND California Resort california.legoland.com Universal Studios universalstudioshollywood.com Knott’s Berry Farm knotts.com Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament medievaltimes.com SeaWorld San Diego seaworldparks.com/en/ seaworld-sandiego

WHEN BOOKING ONLINE

COME AS YOU PLAN AS

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YOU GO.

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9/2/15 3:06 PM

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48

hours in...

Ballarat, VIC Historic Ballarat is an easy hour’s drive from Melbourne and a great place for families to explore Australian history, appreciate art, challenge their sense of fair play, frolic in the outdoors and get up close to Australian wildlife. Rich history abounds, together with a fresh new energy that sizzles with incredible food shopping, modern arts and culture.

Day 1 Morning Make your first stop M.A.D.E ., Australia’s museum dedicated to democracy. Built on the site of the Eureka Stockade and housing the original Eureka Flag, this engaging and enthralling museum encourages you to explore the concept of democracy through music, projections and speeches by the most influential orators of the 20th century. There are plenty of hands-on activities designed to get your kids thinking about the importance of democracy and fair play, and how they can make a contribution. A morning is not enough to explore all of the interactive exhibits and engaging technology of this award-winning museum.

Finish your visit with a delicious snack or a lunch at the Museum’s Saltbush Kitchen.

We recommend grabbing one of the complimentary picnic rugs and letting the kids run loose in the Eureka Gardens and playgrounds.

Afternoon Indulge in a double adventure, with arty indoors, and outdoors play time.

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is the oldest and largest regional art gallery in Australia.

There is art from the earliest period of European settlement to the present day, and a fine and growing collection of Australian Indigenous art. Families are welcome and encouraged to explore and appreciate.

Then head for the outdoors to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens Reserve, overlooking picturesque Lake Wendouree.

Kids will love the creative and cool adventure playground and the timber fort taking centre stage and providing hours of play and imagination.

Evening Enjoy the new and funky restaurants and cafes in this vibrant city. One of the latest entries into the Ballarat foodie scene is the highly recommended ‘Cat Fish Thai’ offering a delectable chef’s degustation for

the adults, and simpler, tasty Thai dishes for the kids.

Day 2 Morning Sovereign Hill is Australia’s favourite outdoor museum where the settlement of Ballarat, in its first decade after the discovery of gold in 1851, is recreated.

Sovereign Hill lets you step back in time from the moment you enter the original Main Street, with costumed ladies and gents of yesteryear parading, and soldiers marching along with great theatre. Pan for gold at the Red Hill Gully Diggings where it’s finders, keepers! Ride the stagecoach, visit the original schoolhouse or watch old-fashioned boiled lollies being made, candle making, wheel craftsmanship and so much more.

You can even grab a bonus ticket that allows you to come back free the next day!

Afternoon Ballarat Wildlife Park is the perfect place for kids to get up close to native animals including koalas, wombats, various birdlife, crocodiles, and Tasmanian Devils.

In the open area, come face to face with a mob of the friendliest kangaroos you may ever encounter (they love having their necks scratched). Plan your visit around the regular keeper talks to learn about the animals and experience the occasional hands-on encounter.

Evening Only available on selected dates, plan your visit around an evening dinner show or feast at Kryal Castle just 8km east of Ballarat. Australia’s only medieval theme park reopened in 2013 – a legendary land of myth and medieval adventure with knights, dragons, wizards, royalty, fairies and so much more. This evening taste will have your kids begging to come back to experience the fantastic adventure park by day. > visitballarat.com.au

From top: Ballarat Botanical Gardens Children enjoying M.A.D.E’s exhibition space © Ballarat Tourism

Stay ballaratpremierapartments. com.au

Play made.org sovereignhill.com.au wildlifepark.com.au kryalcastle.com.au artgalleryofballarat.com.au

Eat saltbushkitchen.com.au suchnsuch.com.au catfishthai.com.au

OAWK Tip: Take a moment to shop, eat and play at the childfriendly ‘Such N Such’ café and store. Best of all there is a full size kids playhouse onsite, making it a favourite meeting spot for local families.

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hours in...

Sydney Olympic Park Sydney Olympic Park has a rich history of great Australian sporting feats, and has also evolved into a vibrant hub for Sydneysiders and visitors to enjoy every day of the year. Sport is still an important part of our Olympic precinct, however, it is now also an ideal destination for a family outing or a 48-hour stay.

Day 1 Morning Spend the morning at The Aquatic Centre at Sydney Olympic Park (SOP). The Aquatic Centre hosted some of the proudest moments for Aussies at the Olympic Games in 2000. The main pool is open to the public all year round, however, the real attraction for families is Splasher’s Water Playground, the Rapid River Ride and the awesome indoor water slide. The Aquatic Centre has fantastic amenities with change rooms including parent facilities, a café, and a gym.

Walk through to the rear of the Centre to find another world of family fun out of the water. In the gardens you can relax, enjoy a picnic lunch and even try your hand at the circus arts trapeze school, or test your balance at Urban Jungle on one of the high ropes courses.

OAWK Tip: A family pass to the Aquatic Centre is only $27.50 for a full day, including parking.

Evening After a day of high activity why not stay in the Park and make your 48 hours a real adventure. The family-friendly Novotel or the Pullman are both suited to families and have restaurants that offer kids meals along with a great variety of modern Australian dishes.

Above: Blaxland Riverside Park Left: Urban Jungle

Day 2

Afternoon If you can tear the kids away from the Aquatic Centre head over to Waterview Restaurant and Café for a scrumptious meal on the edge of Bicentennial Park.

The Park offers an abundance of space and is the perfect location for running around, cycling or partaking of a picnic!

After lunch venture to one of the lesserknown gems of our Olympic precinct. SOP offers many activities all year round and one that isn’t found often in Sydney is Archery.

The Archery Centre is set up for all to enjoy with programs for little ones to adults.

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Morning Begin your day with a bounce!! A recent addition to the family fun at Olympic Park is the FX Zone. FX Zone has the family covered - activities within the complex include a huge array of trampolines, a golf and baseball simulator and an indoor soccer field.

Afternoon Finish your 48-hour adventure at Blaxland Park. Recently upgraded, the park sits on the Parramatta River and is more than your average playground! Here you can ride the double flying fox, jump the mega-swing, brave the tunnel slides, climb the scramble wall, lose your stomach in the spinning play disk, explore the multi-level tree house, and cool off in the largest outdoor water play space in NSW.

Stay accorhotels.com novotel.com/sydney/olympic_park pullmanhotels.com/OlympicPark

Play sydneyolympicpark.com.au aquaticcentre.com.au archerycentre.com.au fxzone.com.au

Eat waterviewvenue.com.au

48

hours in...

Hunter Valley, NSW The Hunter Valley in NSW is known for its wines and delicious produce, however, as Out & About with Kids discovered, the Hunter Valley is also a great destination for a family getaway, only a two hour drive north from Sydney.

Day 1 All day Explore the Gardens: The heart of the Hunter Valley for families is Hunter Valley Gardens. Within the precinct are the famous gardens, ample picnic spots, Aqua Golf and quaint gift shops that cater for all ages, plus a variety of restaurants and cafes. Hunter Valley Gardens is set over 24ha, and with over 8km of easy (pram- friendly) paths, it is an enjoyable outing for all. The kids will love weaving through gardens that represent many cultures from around the globe.

Waterfalls and bridges, along with flowers in full bloom, bring a sense of tranquillity.

For the younger kids the highlight is the Storybook Garden. This garden is themed on classic Nursery Rhymes that we all love and remember, no matter our age. The oversized characters and settings from a selection of classics will resonate with all and bring the kids closer to some of their favourite stories.

A morning here wont be enough, so once your stay at the gardens is over head out into the parklands for a picnic lunch or grab a bite at one of the cafes. Unpack the cricket bat, footy or bikes and enjoy the open spaces for a family afternoon of outdoor fun. Within the parklands you will also find Aqua Golf and Putt Putt. At Aqua Golf prizes can be won - from an ice cream to a round of Golf at the Hunter’s best Golf Courses. Both are reasonably priced and suit all ages.

OAWK Tip: Hunter Valley Gardens has themed events year round. Check out their website huntervalleygardens. com.au to see what’s on when you are planning your visit.

Evening Only 800m down the road is Harrigan’s Irish Pub, the perfect location for a family pub meal and catering for all ages with kids favourites, pub fare and gourmet dishes.

Both indoor and outdoor seating is available.

There’s also a great play area for kids to run around under the watchful eye of mum and dad. As the pub is centrally located it is also

the perfect place to stay, with comfortable, clean and affordable rooms.

Day 2 Morning Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Harrigan’s then head to the Hunter Valley Zoo. Many people don’t know about this hidden, hands-on animal experience in the middle of one of Australia’s finest wine regions. Hunter Valley Zoo is home to many native Australian animals as well as exotic birds and reptiles from around the world.

On entry, buy some feed for the wallabies, kangaroos and goats, and book a special Meerkat experience prior to arrival. The Zoo encourages guests to bring their own lunch so you can relax and enjoy this animal experience for hours.

Top left & bottom: Harrigan’s Irish Pub © Harrigan’s Irish Pub & Accommodations

Top right: Storybook Garden © Hunter Valley Gardens

Afternoon For an after lunch treat (especially for those with a sweet tooth) visit the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company. The factory and showroom on Broke Rd is a must-visit, with a huge variety of chocolates and fudges.

Naturally, no visit to the Hunter Valley is complete with a stop at a winery! Many wineries in the Hunter Valley welcome families and have activities for kids, while mum and dad sample the local produce at the Cellar Door! Family-friendly wineries in the Hunter include Scarborough, Roche Estate’s Tempus Two, Keith Tulloch and Hungerford Hill.

Stay harrrigansirishpub.com.au crowneplaza.com/HunterValley mercurehuntervalley.com.au

Play huntervalleygardens.com.au huntervalleyzoo.com.au hvchocolate.com.au

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Your next family holiday!

NEWCASTLE, NSW Beautiful beachfront location

Children’s playground

Patrolled swimming, surfing and fishing beach

Great camping facilities, especially for large groups

A selection of modern 2 & 3 bedroom villas available

Only a short ferry trip to Newcastle

A selection of powered and unpowered sites

FREE onsite activities during school holiday periods

BOOK NOW!

02 4928 1393 www.stocktonbeach.com

Villas from only $179* per room per night

3 Pitt Street Stockton NSW 2295

*Price based on a single night stay in Low Season in a Break Wall or Sand Dune Villa for two people.

Central Coast Holiday Parks offer a unique holiday experience for the whole family.

Located at Budgewoi, Canton Beach, Norah Head & Toowoon Bay, the Parks' prime locations offer the best of the lakeside and beachside haven that is the beautiful Central Coast.

Keeping the kids entertained won't be a problem with facilities that include:     

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FREE CALL 1800 241 342

Resort style pools at Norah Head & Toowoon Bay Jumping pillows at all four parks FREE wireless internet Foxtel in all cabins FREE school holiday activities

H O LI D A Y P A R K S

Special Holiday Park Feature Everything you need to know about holidaying with your family in Australia’s great outdoors!

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DID YOU KNOW …?

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WE REVIEW: BIG4 EASTS BEACH HOLIDAY PARK, NSW

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INLAND HOLIDAY PARKS

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WE REVIEW: BIG4 DUBBO PARKLANDS, NSW

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WE REVIEW: NRMA OCEAN BEACH HOLIDAY PARK, UMINA, NSW

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WATER PARKS

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KIDS SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

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WE REVIEW: COOLUM BEACH HOLIDAY PARK, QLD

© Shutterstock.com

ACCESSIBLE HOLIDAY PARKS

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THE PERFECT BEACH HOLIDAY DESTINATION! Our family friendly park has an array of accommodation to suit everyone’s needs from waterfront Beach Retreats and Villas to our Ensuite and Powered Sites. Relax and enjoy a swim or a game of beach cricket on our beautiful Easts Beach. Have a hit of tennis or catch a fish or two. The kids will love our 25m resort pool,

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toddlers wading pool and children’s playgrounds. Kids activities and movies in our holiday periods will keep the kids busy. Our holiday park is the ideal location from which to explore the south coast, with popular tourist attractions such as Jamberoo Action Park and the Minnamurra Rainforest just minutes away.

For further information please contact: BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park Ocean Street (PO Box 10) Kiama NSW 2533 Freecall: 1800 674 444 P: 02 4232 2124 F: 02 4233 1009 E: holiday@eastsbeach.com.au www.eastsbeach.com.au

H O LI DA Y P A R K S

Did you know …?

Holiday Parks Sydney Lakeside joins NRMA

© NRMA Sydney Lakeside Holiday Park

The very popular Lakeside Holiday Park in Narrabeen on Sydney’s northern beaches is now part of the growing NRMA family, which means great benefits for NRMA Members staying at the park.

Lakeside is bordered by Narrabeen Lagoon and a patrolled surf beach, making it the perfect choice for family holidays. Only a short walk to the beach, the local area offers swimming, snorkelling, bushwalking and kayaking as well as a range of dining at local cafes and restaurants.

And, like all NRMA parks, Sydney Lakeside has a wide range of facilities and activities to suit all tastes and budgets. The park has 4 star self-contained accommodation (including Lakeview Villas, Standard Villas, bungalows and studio cabins), along with ensuite, powered and unpowered camping sites. With bbqs, fully-equipped camp kitchens, laundry facilities, free WiFi and internet kiosks, there’s everything you need for a fantastic holiday. Kids will love the waterpark, playground, games/tv room and the great children’s activity program that runs every school holidays. > sydneylakeside.com.au

©BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday

Opened in time for the recent September school holidays, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort’s very own Animal Park boasts a collection of big and small farm animals! With daily feeding at 10 am and 1.5ha of park space in which to roam, the new additions can meet, and get to know, the little visitors in a great up-close and personal encounter.

Meet Albert the miniature pig, Molly the miniature Belted Galloway, Angel and Chino the Alpacas, Red the goat (and two baby goats, Wrangler and Cherokee), Rosie the sheep, 10 chickens and 16 ducks!

The animal farm is the only BIG4 North Queensland interactive animal park and is another kid-friendly, free activity for guests staying at the resort. > adventurewhitsunday.com.au/animalpark

© ATPM

New animal park opens at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

Gippsland region names holiday park ‘Winner’!

Congratulations go to Eastern Beach Holiday Park in Victoria’s Gippsland region, recently named the winner in the accommodation category in this year’s Gippsland Business Awards.

The awards celebrate the achievements of Gippsland businesses, recognising Eastern Beach Holiday Park for achievements across the business, including marketing, risk management, customer service and sustainability.

Park managers, Tessa Mooney and Tegan Vanderslik were thrilled with the win and gave praise to their hard-working and passionate staff, who they credited with providing exceptional holiday experiences for every guest of the park.

The 4.5 star property is located on the north side of Lakes Entrance, in the north east region of Gippsland. Guests can explore the Gippsland region and all it has to offer from kayaking down Cunninghame Arm, to eating fresh fish and chips looking over Ninety Mile beach. > easternbeach.com.au SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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© CCIA NSW

H O LI DA Y P A R K S

NSW Caravan Camping & Holiday Expos The Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW (CCIA) is a great first-stop for information, and a wealth of resources, to help you plan your next family holiday in the great outdoors. The CCIA website provides valuable tips for caravanning and camping families – from RV products and services, to finding a holiday park, and tips for camping, travelling with pets, caravan safety and more.

The CCIA also puts on amazing expos at a number of NSW locations throughout the year. In 2016 get along to one of the following shows and expos so you can start planning your next holiday with all the latest info, tips and expert advice in hand!

Newcastle Caravan, Camping & Holiday Expo 5 - 7 February 2016 Newcastle Entertainment Centre & Showground Sydney Caravan, Camping & Holiday Supershow 9 - 17 April 2016 Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, Sydney For more information visit the CCIA website: caravan-camping.com.au

Two new BIG4 holiday parks with BIG play centres!

© BIG4 Bendigo Park Lane

Victoria’s BIG4 Bendigo Park Lane and BIG4 Traralgon Park Lane holiday parks have been welcomed into the BIG4 family, and both are in prime family holiday locations! BIG4 Bendigo is set in Victoria’s famous goldfields region just outside of Melbourne, and BIG4 Traralgon is in the popular Gippsland region east of Melbourne. The addition of these two fantastic holiday parks to the BIG4 group is BIG news in itself … but both parks also boast a BIG play centre where kids’ fun is high on the agenda! Experience the excitement of Parky’s Wonderland – multi-level indoor play centres – with soft ball cannon play zone, giant slides, a large ball pit, trampolines, a flying fox and a whole lot more. At Traralgon you can also try Parky’s Adventure Ropes Course, which is the first course of its kind in Australia, while Parky’s Laser Tag provides hours of entertainment for all ages.

And best of all, entry to both Parky’s Wonderlands is FREE for all park guests. > parklaneholidayparks.com.au/bendigo > parklaneholidayparks.com.au/traralgon

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H OLIDA Y P AR KS

Campfires are ok here!

Think camping, think campfires, right?

Marshmallows toasting, glowing embers and maybe even a fireside sing-a-long?

But did you know that not all holiday parks allow campfires onsite? There are 25 different BIG4 holiday parks that do permit these cosy get-togethers (at manager’s discretion and in observance of safety requirements of course!). Make enquiries when you book your next holiday at one of the following BIG4 Holiday Parks: NSW Active Holidays – BIG4 Mudgee Emerald Beach Holiday Park Deniliquin Holiday Park Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park Moruya Heads East’s Dolphin Beach Holiday Park Nambucca Beach Holiday Park Nelligen Holiday Park Saltwater @ Yamba Holiday Park South Durras Holiday Park Sunshine South West Rocks Holiday Park Tocumwal Tourist Park Wallaga Lake Holiday Park Conjola Lakeside Van Park Discovery Holiday Parks – Gerroa Island View Beach Resort QLD Aussie Outback Oasis Cabin and Van Village Cania Gorge Holiday Park Gold Coast Holiday Park Goondiwindi Holiday Park Kingaroy Holiday Park

TAS Port Arthur Holiday Park St Helens Holiday Park > big4.com.au

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© Shutterstock.com

VIC Apollo Bay Pisces Bright Holiday Park Castlemaine Gardens Holiday Park Porepunkah Holiday Park Grampians Parkgate Resort Wye River Holiday Park Yarra Valley Holiday Park SA Hawker Flinders Ranges Holiday Park Port Willunga Tourist Park Loxton Riverfront Caravan Park

Stay 1 night receive 10% off

Stay 2 nights receive 15% off

Stay 3 nights receive 20% off

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Great deals on sites also available *subject to availability, conditions apply Not valid at Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Ningaloo Reef Resort or Exmouth Cape Holiday Park

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BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park Location BIG4 Easts Beach Holiday Park located in Kiama, on the NSW South Coast, is approximately 2 hours’ drive south of Sydney, 2 hours and 40 minutes from Canberra and 8.5 hours from Melbourne. BIG4 Easts Beach is set in a valley with easterly views of the ocean and westerly views looking back over the mountains.

Accommodation BIG4 Easts Beach offers a full range of accommodation from camping and powered caravan sites to beachfront two bedroom cabins and three bed cabins, just 15m from the beach.

Out & About with Kids stayed in a 2 bedroom Seabreeze Spa villa, with all the mod cons needed for a relaxing stay, including our own bbq and fullyequipped kitchen, allowing us to cook breakfast and dinner with ease and limited cleaning up. The bedrooms are well-appointed and comfy, the kids room had a bunk which always adds to the holiday fun! The location of these cabins is quite stunning – from our front verandah we were looking straight out onto Easts Beach! Plus Wi-Fi is available in all cabins!

OAWK Tip: Contact BIG4 Easts Beach out of school holidays and enjoy an amazing weekend away, or if you stay seven nights or more great deals are available Activities Pack the bike, the footy and the cricket bat. A few days or a week at this holiday park is the perfect opportunity for you to be active, with ample space in the park and on the beach to play. Like many holiday parks, it is easy for the kids to ride around in a safe environment.

The park itself has a large pool, playground, jumping pillow, tennis courts and, of course, a beautiful beach that is hard to beat.

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H O L ID A Y P A R K S

Recommended Visit The South Coast of NSW has beautiful drives, walks and picturesque towns like Berry, which is definitely worth a visit, however Kiama offers one the South Coast’s gems. The Kiama Blowhole on the headland is a must-see, as the waves roll in and the water sprays through this natural wonder.

Food & Beverage BIG4 Easts Beach is set up as a selfcontained park; all cabins have kitchens that include all the necessary equipment for your holiday meals. Campers, and families who want to cook as a group, will find the dedicated camp kitchen and numerous bbq areas situated around the park ideal. Head to the onsite Breakaway CafĂŠ (for that all-important morning coffee or afternoon ice-cream) which also serves as a mini-mart for the everyday needs you may require.

Water Fun With the golden sands of Easts Beach at your doorstep you will be hard pressed to look further afield. For those times where you want to keep off the sand, the 25m resort pool is the place to be.

The pool has its own blowhole and mushroom fountains, and for mum and dad there is a huge spa to sit back and relax in while the kids kick about in the pool.

Did you know BIG4 Easts Beach has been owned and operated by the East family for over 80 years. Originally a dairy farm, visitors started pitching tents to take in the beauty of the beach and valley in the 1930s. The East family has been in the area for over 160 years and for eight decades they have run this fantastic holiday park with passion and love!

BIG4 East Beach Holiday Park Ocean St Kiama NSW 2533 P: 1800 674 444 E: holiday@eastsbeach.com.au eastsbeach.com.au

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H O LI D A Y P A R K S

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Head inland for holidays!

A

ustralia’s coastline is massive, and with beautiful beaches and towns aplenty, holidaymakers are spoilt for choice when it comes to fabulous beachside destinations.

It’s fair to say that sun, sand and surf are big family holiday drawcards, particularly during our long, lazy summers.

But venture an hour or so inland from the coast – and beyond – and you’ll discover the wonders of our interior, where the landscapes are amazingly diverse.

Pick a spot anywhere along the mighty Murray River, which rises in the Australian Alps and flows across the inland plains of NSW and VIC, meandering all the way to South Australia!

Imagine a ‘real Australia’ experience somewhere in the vast Queensland outback, where historic towns, red earth, rodeos and endless sky greet you.

Explore inland Australia where rivers and farms meet history and native wildlife; travel to the Red Centre to see spectacular Uluru, and discover the ancient and pristine natural world of our largest state,

Western Australia.

And while you’re introducing your children to the wonders of wider Australia, you can also introduce them to billabongs, creeks, waterfalls, inland river systems and crystal clear lagoons. It’s not only our coast that boasts fun water action!

Venture into gold mining territory, step into a sheep shearing shed, watch a real-life muster, meet a stockman, spot native wildlife, be amazed at the sheer number of sparkling stars and planets visible in the night sky, bushwalk and trail bike, go river fishing from the banks or from a boat, climb into caves on a hunt for glow worms, learn about bush tucker and see awesome mountain ranges.

You’ll find fabulous family-friendly holiday parks everywhere from Leeton NSW to Longreach QLD, and from Wiluna SA to Wodonga VIC when you take your family on a detour from the coast to experience a distinctly different Aussie holiday. Choose your ideal location, find your holiday park and off you go!

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NSW

BIG4 Dubbo Parklands, DUBBO NEARBY This fabulous holiday park is located so close to the famous Taronga Western Plains Zoo that you can almost hear the lions roar! Visit Old Dubbo Gaol where animatronics and holograms bring stories to life and call in to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Education Centre to learn about the life saving work this Australian icon does for people who live, work and travel in remote Australia.

IN THE PARK Explore the wide open spaces and gardens, relax in the heated pool while the kids play in the play gym and sandpit (and toddlers’ playground), or ride their bikes on the BMX track and try out the Jumbo Kangaroo Jumper. BONUS: You can even have delicious home-cooked meals delivered to your cabin or site at Dubbo Parklands! big4.com.au Above from left: Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo BIG4 Dubbo Parklands playground & BBQ areas © Dubbo Parklands

Fossicking in Inverell ©Paul Foley; Destination NSW

Far right inset: Echuca Holiday Park Supplied by ATPM

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BIG4 Armidale Highlander Van Village, ARMIDALE Copeton Waters Holiday Park, near INVERELL NEARBY The New England Region of Northern NSW boasts plenty of beautiful and spectacular national parks, just perfect for outdoor family adventures, and Armidale and Inverell are

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not only picturesque rural centres but also cosmopolitan regional hubs. Visit the Armidale Railway Museum and the Armidale Folk Museum and dip your toes into local history and culture.

Experience a wide range of Indigenous arts and culture at Armidale’s Cultural Centre and Keeping Place. Explore the many attractions of the Inverell/Bingara area, including Copeton Dam, which holds three times the volume of water of Sydney Harbour and is filled with cod, yellowbelly, silver perch, catfish and redfin!

IN THE PARK – BIG4 Armidale Highlander Van Village Despite its name, this spacious park also offers a range of cabins - from Standard to Deluxe and including the four-bedroom Ali’s Cottage that sleeps seven people! And if you’re staying in your own caravan, or camping out, a number of sites in the park welcome small to medium-sized dogs, so you don’t have to leave your four-legged friends at home. Just let staff know when you’re booking! big4.com.au IN THE PARK – Copeton Waters Holiday Park Copeton Waters Holiday Park is a 900ha recreational and adventure playground only 40km from the town of Inverell. The park is the ideal base to explore the local area of Inverell. The kids will love the park’s Adventure Playground, Splash Park and Giant Jumping Pillow. copeton.com.au

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Lake Keepit Holiday Park, TAMWORTH/GUNNEDAH NEARBY Tamworth is known as Australia’s country music capital, hosting the annual Country Music Festival and Golden Guitar Awards that see thousands of people flock to the NSW town for ten days of entertainment and family fun each January. Visit the Australian Country Music Foundation Hall of Fame, walk down Peel Street or through Bicentennial Park past bronze statues and pavers celebrating Australian country music icons. Visit The Farm Gate Trail to see cows being milked and to taste honey straight from the hive, and head out to Lake Keepit for hours of fun boating, fishing, and at the waterpark!

IN THE PARK Just 40 minutes out of the town centre, this holiday park sits on the banks of spectacular Keepit Dam. There’s a BMX bike track, skate bowl, waterpark and playgrounds and plenty of opportunities to net a great catch – Lake Keepit is famous for fishing. inlandwaters.com.au/park/info/lake-keepit The Great Aussie Holiday Park, ALBURY-WODONGA NEARBY Right on the border of NSW (Albury) and VIC (Wodonga) these twin cities straddle the Murray River – arguably the region’s most famous attraction!

Relax and enjoy a range of water activities, bike ride, picnic, explore the many children’s playgrounds along the riverbanks, and kick back! Visit Albury Botanic

Gardens, Hume Dam and Lake Hume and Monument Hill.

IN THE PARK Try the pump bike track, badminton, table tennis, air hockey, volleyball and the golf driving range. Grab adventure on the jumping pillow, or in the pool and chillax with more games in the Recreation Room or at movie nights. Pre-order your groceries from Woolworths and they’ll be ready for your arrival! greataussieholidaypark.com.au

VIC

A Shady River Holiday Park, Echuca-Moama Maiden’s Inn Holiday Park, Echuca-Moama Echuca Holiday Park NEARBY: Just 2.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne, the popular twin towns of Echuca-Moama lie in a region steeped in the Murray River’s rich paddle steamer history! Try fishing, boating, kayaking; explore national parks, walking trails and backroads trails, and enjoy picnic spots, bike rides and a multitude of family-friendly outdoor activities and attractions.

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From left: Bright Holiday Park Bairnsdale Riverside Holiday Park © ATPM

IN THE PARK - A Shady River Holiday Park A Shady River Holiday Park evokes images of relaxation and lazy days as meandering as the Murray River. The park’s setting - on 10.5ha of natural bush and gardens - will transport you from the hustle and bustle of city life instantly, with playgrounds, pools, an inflatable trampoline, games room and in-park boat ramp. big4.com.au IN THE PARK – Maiden’s Inn Holiday Park Situated right on the banks of the Murray River, Maiden’s Inn Holiday Park provides plenty of places from which to kick back and gaze upon this impressive and tranquilwaterway. The park also has two boat ramps and a new marina for easy and fuss-free access onto the water and there’s an adventure playground next to the resort style-swimming pool and toddlers splash area. big4.com.au IN THE PARK – Echuca Holiday Park Set on almost 5ha and surrounded by 16ha of bushland, Echuca Holiday Park is a relaxing destination, with the Echuca Central Boat Ramp and Boat and Canoe Hire at your door. A short 300m walk from the park is the heart of the Port Precinct, bustling with fantastic restaurants, shopping and attractions. echucacaravanpark.com.au Bairnsdale Riverside Holiday Park, BAIRNSDALE NEARBY Explore Gippsland Lakes – the largest inland

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watersystem in the Southern Hemisphere. Visit Buchan Caves and the timber town of Orbost, and head to Omeo where you can delve into our gold rush heritage.

IN THE PARK Self-contained cabins overlook the Mitchell River where you can indulge in a range of outdoor activities including boating and kayaking. There’s also a swimming pool, children’s swing set, Wi-Fi and kids activities in the school holidays. bairnsdalerhp.com.au Bright Holiday Park, BRIGHT NEARBY A fantastic base from which to explore Victoria’s High Country, Bright is situated in the northeastern part of the state in a region known for its sub alpine valleys and high plains. Get outdoors here because there’s really so much to see and do! Visit farms and purchase chestnuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, apples, lavender, roses, WA berries and see deer, emu and alpaca too. Cycle the rail trail to Wandiligong, head to the splash park in summer, or ski the slopes of Mt Hotham in winter.

IN THE PARK Right on the water’s edge, surrounded by elm trees, Bright Holiday Park includes an 18 hole mini golf and two children’s playgrounds and fishing from the banks of The Ovens River. The park is also an easy five minute stroll to bars, restaurants, cafes, visitor information centre, supermarkets and local shops. brightholidaypark.com.au

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BIG4 Dubbo Parklands Location BIG4 Dubbo Parklands is located in Dubbo in Central West NSW; it is approx. a 5 hour (six hours with a stop or two) drive north west of Sydney, 4 hours and 40 minutes from Canberra (via Cowra) and 10 hours from Brisbane. The holiday park is located on the western outskirts of Dubbo and is bordered by Sir Roden Cutler Park and the Macquarie River.

Accommodation BIG4 Dubbo Parklands offers a variety of cabins along with powered sites and a designated camping area. There is also a 130-bed dorm for school and community groups. There are one and two bedroom cabins, Glamping tents for a family of four, plus the newly-opened three bedroom cabins which we had the opportunity to inspect during our stay.

Each cabin has a bbq on the verandah, all new furniture and finishings, and are spacious and modern – they’ll be snapped up quickly!

Out & About with Kids stayed in a two bedroom Macquarie Suite. The Macquarie Suites are well appointed with a spacious kitchen/dining/living area that has room for up to six people to spend meal times and relaxing evenings.

The kitchen is equipped with all the necessary items a family needs to prepare meals. The living space includes a tv with AUSTAR, a large sofa and a dining table that seats six people comfortably. The main bedroom is furnished with a soft double bed, big built-ins and a tv, whilst the kids room also has a tv, built-ins and two bunk beds. The bathroom is large with a separate toilet allowing shared use, as you get ready for the day ahead. One thing that really stood out to OAWK was the cleanliness of both the cabins and the property.

Water Fun The BIG news for BIG4 Dubbo Parklands is the opening of a brand new water park.

This addition of a water slide, spray jets and a tipping bucket was obviously a hit with kids as all day long we could see and hear screams of laughter and enjoyment

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coming from the pool area. Dubbo can receive some high temperatures throughout the year so the water park, along with the pool, is perfect for young and old to cool off!

Food & Beverage BIG4 Dubbo Parklands is designed to be a self-catering park. A communal bbq area is onsite and the cabins all have the necessary bits and pieces for you to cook a meal. There is a dinner service available from the dormitory kitchen and it’s best to check with reception for opening hours. A

selection of snacks and drinks are available throughout the day from reception. The town of Dubbo doesn’t fall short when it comes to restaurants, clubs and cafes. The main street is a quick five to ten minute drive away and en route you’ll also find a couple of familyfriendly clubs.

Activities Inside the park there is a huge jumping pillow, games/movie room and a BMX track to keep the kids entertained, Outside, a must-do when you are in Dubbo

H O L ID A Y P A R K S

is a visit to Taronga Western Plains Zoo. The Zoo is a five minute drive from the holiday park and is a unique experience compared to traditional zoos. The animals are penned in open enclosures allowing them to roam freely whilst still giving the viewing public a good vantage point. You can opt to walk (around 5km for the entire zoo), ride a bike or drive, park and walk.

All options give you a great experience. taronga.org.au/taronga-westernplains-zoo

OAWK Tip: To get a true experience of Dubbo and its history book a ride with Peter from Trike Adventures. Trike Adventures runs tours around Dubbo showing the expansive parks, the highlights of the town and an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. Taking a ride on a Trike is safe as you are securely strapped in to the back seat and helmets are given to all. Up to three people can enjoy a ride at one time. Kids aged 6+ (height/weight restrictions may apply) can participate in this fun activity. A further tip, keep your mouth closed whilst onboard or you may have a few little insect snacks along the way!!!!

To book a ride visit trikeadventures.com.au or call 1300 874 537 Did you know Dubbo is known as the ‘City of Smiles’ so much so that the town logo is a smile!

BIG4 Dubbo Parklands 154 Whylandra Street, Dubbo, NSW 2830 P: (02) 6884 8633 E: dubboparklands@aspenparks.com.au aspenparks.com.au/parks/nsw/big4-dubbo-parklands/ contact/

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H O LI D A Y P A R K S

Accessible for all!

Most of us have never had to make holiday choices based around the limited mobility of a family member but for those families who do, there are so many elements to take into consideration, and a mountain of fine-detail research and planning that needs to happen before a family holiday can be given the green light by all.

M

ost holiday parks, by their very nature, already tick a few boxes for accessibility over many other types of holiday accommodation. Generally they are designed and laid out with wide, flat access roads and pathways, to accommodate vehicle movements into and out of the park and provide easy and safe riding spaces for kids on bikes, trikes and scooters, and for pushing strollers - so wheelchairs are welcome!

But here’s the great news - a large and growing number of Australian holiday parks are now not just resorts that ‘kinda work’ for family members with limited mobility, they are actively accessible – and that means gorgeous cabins and villas specially-designed with full accessibility features that go beyond wheelchair-access ramps to spacious living areas, wide hallways and doorways, fullyfitted bathrooms and even cabin facilities and features that are accessible from seated height.

In a wide range of stunning locations across the country, Aussie holiday parks make for a holiday to remember, and with greater accessibility that means mums, dads and kids (and even grandparents) with limited mobility can have a terrific holiday with less stress and more fun, and all the comforts every holidaying family deserves!

And while we know bathrooms are not the most glamorous photographs to choose to grace the pages of a family holiday and travel magazine, we’ve provided a few here, along with some helpful holiday park information, to illustrate just how ‘accessible’ your next holiday can be!

OAWK Tip: Do your research online first, but always make a phone call to the holiday park you’re considering for your holiday before you book. You’ll find the onsite staff know their park better than anyone and are more than happy to chat with you and provide the right information, and the insider lowdown, on accessible features, activities and communal facilities available. They’ll guide you to the perfect accommodation for your family - and make sure you let them know of any specific needs for vehicle access and parking too!

Tathra Beachside Holiday Park NSW SOUTH COAST Book into a fully-accessible, state-of-the-art, 3 bedroom Beach House and enjoy full wheelchair accessibility throughout. More than a cabin, these luxury Beach Houses were completed in November 2014 and boast

beautiful finishes along with wide hallways, spacious rooms and a Government-compliant family bathroom with full accessibility. Located just metres from the golden sand, each Beach House has two queen beds and four single bunks, an additional ensuite bathroom off the main bedroom, washing machine and dryer and private deck with bbq. tathrabeachside.com.au

Above clockwise from top: Summer Breeze Villa Summer Breeze Villa Kitchen Summer Breeze Villa Bathroom

Swansea Gardens Holiday Park NSW LAKE MACQUARIE Swansea Gardens Holiday Park offers deluxe wheelchair accessible villas, either overlooking the park’s ramp accessible pool or beautiful Lake Macquarie. lakemacholidayparks.com.au/park/swansea Park Beach Holiday Park NSW COFFS COAST Recently awarded ‘Best Park in NSW’ by the Caravan & Camping Industry of NSW (CCIA) and scoring a hat trick in 2015 from TripAdvisor with its third successive ‘Certificate of Excellence’, Park Beach Holiday Park also wins big for its new accessible 2 bedroom Summer Breeze Villas! Specifically designed and fitted out for persons with disabilities and limited mobility, the SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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H OLIDA Y P AR KS

bedrooms with enough space to allow for easy movement in wheelchairs.

Coming soon - the brand new, fully-accessible 3 bedroom Resort Villa!

VIC BIG4 Whiters Holiday Village Lakes Entrance The Garden Cottage sleeps six people and has ground level access, spacious rooms and accessible bathroom with shower grab rails.

QLD BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort The resort has two accessible Deluxe Studio cabins and accessible parking, reception, amenity blocks and pathways. Plus, the friendly ‘Frogettes’ at Reception can recommend the most suitable local tours for mobility-limited guests.

villas have accessible ramps, open plan design with wide doorways and plenty of space to manoeuvre a wheelchair (including a spacious verandah) and the bathroom has a fold down seat in the shower and grab rails.

There’s a queen bed in the main room and a king single ensemble and a bunk in the second room to comfortably accommodate up to five people. coffscoastholidayparks.com.au/park-beachholiday-park/

BIG 4 Holiday Parks

Before you choose a destination and a holiday park visit the BIG4 Blog to learn more about these fantastic itineraries and initiatives.

BIG4 Holiday Parks are spread far and wide across Australia and include many fantastic accessible features, facilities and accommodation.

BIG4 even offers a range of specially-designed itineraries for families travelling with a family member with limited mobility. blog.big4.com.au/2014/05/29/big4-holidayparks-limited-mobility-travel-destinations Check out these BIG4 holiday options: big4.com.au

Above clockwise from left: Deluxe Cabin interior @ BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort Garden Cottage BIG4 Whiters Holiday Village Lakes Entrance Victoria Bathroom at Garden Cottage

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NSW BIG4 Koala Shores Port Stephens Holiday Park In a prime waterfront location at Lemon Tree Passage in Port Stephens – take a look at the 2 bedroom, wheelchair accessible Superior Bushland Villa that sleeps up to six people.

BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park The ground level access Riverfront Deluxe Cabin sleeps five people and includes a large, wheelchairaccessible bathroom with walk-in shower, and

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Caloundra Waterfront Holiday Park, Sunshine Coast The 2 bedroom Wattle Poolside Villa has special access features including a ramp from the garden to the verandah and spacious main bedroom while the Wattle Creekfront Villa also offers ‘Reduced Mobility access’ and a special access bathroom.

SA Port Elliot Holiday Park Located on the beachfront of beautiful Horseshoe Bay, one of the 2 bedroom Villas has been designed to offer full disabled access and includes modifications that make it ideal for guests in wheelchairs or with limited mobility.

NT BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park, Alice Springs There are two accessible, open plan Ensuite Cabins that each sleep six people with full-length carport at the door and ramp access to the cabin.

Big4 Batemans Bay Beach Resort sits on the banks of the calm waters of Corrigans Beach Batehaven, a few kilometres south of Batemans Bay on the unspoilt South Coast NSW. Not only does the resort offer Easy Access Cabins, but right next door at Corrigans Reserve, you’ll find the amazing ‘Liberty Swing’ - a fantastic piece of playground equipment for children in wheelchairs! And while you’re holidaying at Batemans Bay Beach Resort, head to nearby wheelchair-friendly Birdland Animal Park, home to kangaroos, wombats, emu and koalas, and a great day out for the whole family.

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HAPPY KIDS = HAPPY PARENTS

Kid’s Club Daily Activity Schedule Outdoor Cinema Luxury Cabins Landscaped Sites Over 15 Onsite Activities Multi Award Winning Reservations 1300 640 587 reservations@adventurewhitsunday.com.au www.adventurewhitsunday.com.au Shute Harbour Road - Airlie Beach

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NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park, Umina NSW Location Ocean Beach Holiday Park is located at Umina Beach on the NSW Central Coast, about 1.5 hours’ drive north of Sydney. The holiday park is also accessible via train to Woy Woy or Gosford stations with buses operating from both locations to Umina, through Busways. Sydney’s Palm Beach Ferry Service operates daily between Ettalong and Palm Beach. Umina Beach is a 30-minute walk from Ettalong Beach.

Accommodation This award-winning holiday park certainly deserves the multiple accolades! Thoughtfully designed and landscaped, our first impression is of a contemporary, friendly, attractive suburban neighbourhood where kids can walk and bike ride safely along the ‘streets’. There’s a broad choice of cabins and villas, including accessible cabins, set apart from well-maintained campsites and powered sites for motorhomes and caravans. In fact, the amenities blocks for the latter are truly impressive!

Out & About with Kids stayed in the two-bedroom Plantation Villa that was ultra-modern and super comfy and came

equipped with everything, including the kitchen sink. We were impressed with the cabin layout and light and airy beachside décor, and with flat screen tvs (one in the living room and one in the main bedroom!), dishwasher, reverse cycle aircon and all mod cons, we felt instantly at home. The main bedroom had plenty of built-in wardrobe and storage space with queen bed, while the second bedroom had two single beds and built-ins. A wide verandah with outside setting for six people allowed us to soak up some rays and watch the world go by.

We also watched kids, parents and even grandparents go by – with friendly waves - on foot, on skateboards, on bikes, trikes and scooters and on the cool Go Karts and Electric bikes you can hire at Ocean Beach!

OAWK Tip: If you have the vehicle space bring the kids’ ‘wheels’. The park’s grounds and pathways are easy to ride on and safe and it was great to see children of all ages riding together, making new friends and heading off on two and four-wheeled adventures – and if you can’t pack your own wheels you can hire them for the duration of your stay at very reasonable rates.

Activities Boredom doesn’t stand a chance at Ocean Beach Holiday Park! Aside from easy beach access on paths leading from the park, within there’s a whole world of fun and entertainment for kids of all ages and interests. From the indoor games room to the outdoor excitement provided by the newly-renovated tropical resort pool complex, giant jumping pillows, children’s adventure playground and the splashtacular Splash Away Bay Waterpark, every day is jampacked with fun.

Ask about the kids’ ‘Cash for Fun’ Card at Reception. Some kids activities attract a small extra charge and the card gives children that added sense of freedom and autonomy when choosing which activities to join in!

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OAWK Tip: Make sure you pick up a weekly activities sheet from reception.

The Barn, located near the pool complex, offers additional fun activities at different times during each day of the week, and even hosts movie nights, cool competitions, pancake breakfasts and special family events. Activities and events change weekly.

Food & Beverage The park is self-catering so it’s easy to prepare meals and snacks any time. Bring your staples and top up supplies from

H O L ID A Y P A R K S

any one of the great shops on nearby Ocean Beach Road, a mere five-minute drive from the holiday park. There are plenty of individual bbq areas dotted around the communal grounds and a Camp Kitchen with gas cook top, bbqs, boiling water, toasters, fridges, microwaves and tv provides everything you need to prepare and enjoy a family meal when you’re camping. A large deck with tables and chairs for dining completes the picture!

Bluebottles by the Beach onsite café and store offers eat-in and takeaway options – everything from big

breakfasts, pizza, pies, fresh fruit salads, sandwiches and toasties, and a variety of locally baked treats, drinks, coffees, ice-creams and snacks.

Did You Know You can see pelicans being fed daily at nearby Woy Woy or at one of the Central Coast’s most popular family destinations, The Entrance. There are also plenty of beaches, national parks, lakes for fishing and kayaking, shopping centres and cinemas all under an hour’s drive from Ocean Beach Holiday Park.

NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park Sydney Avenue, Umina Beach NSW Make a booking enquiry: oceanbeachholidaypark.com. au/booking-enquiry oceanbeachholidaypark.com.au

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Water! Water! Everywhere!

There are innumerable fantastic, and unique, features to be found at Aussie holiday parks around the country but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a holiday park that doesn’t have at least one swimming pool! It’s a given that our kids love getting wet – and not only in summer. And on holidays, well it’s practically mandatory to take a plunge!

I

n a gigantic nod to kids water fun, more and more holiday parks have taken the initiative to expand and enhance their watery oases into veritable onsite water parks, creating a central hub that draws holidaying kids like bees to honey.

Imagine … splash fountains and water slides; water shoots, bubblers, cannons and sprayers; inflatable water pillows; toddler and baby pools; lagoon, tropical, cave, pirate and underwaterthemed; landscaped and lovingly-created water parks.

For your next holiday park getaway, pack the swimwear, goggles, rashies, floatation devices, towels, thongs and sunscreen and anticipate that at least half of each day of your holiday, your children will be getting all the water action they can!

And it’s not all kids stuff poolside. Shade sails, palm trees and relaxing sun loungers for mums and dads are all part of the package!

We couldn’t possibly detail all of the wonderful water parks in every wonderful holiday park, but we know you’ll seek them out … so here’s just a handful, in NSW and Queensland, that we’ve selected for special mention …

NSW From above left: BIG4 Airlie Cove BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Park

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NRMA Darlington Beach Holiday Park, near COFFS HARBOUR • Tropical resort pool complex (north end heated) • Swimming pool • Toddlers wading pool • Heated spa • Two waterslides • Indoor change rooms darlingtonbeach.com.au

NRMA Ocean Beach Holiday Park, near UMINA BEACH Splash Away Bay Waterpark is a family-friendly facility designed to suit kids of all ages and abilities. They can have endless fun splashing about while parents relax under the shade.

• Big splash bucket • Ground spray • Spirals and arches • Toddler zone • Sea creature characters to play on • Shaded areas plus new bbq and seating area oceanbeachholidaypark.com.au Discovery Holiday Parks Pambula Beach, SOUTH COAST • Indoor heated swimming pool • Indoor heated spa • Waterpark ‘Sapphire Soaker’ • Outdoor swimming pool • Open all year round discoveryholidayparks.com.au/nsw/sapphire_ coast/pambula_beach BIG4 Tweed Billabong Holiday Park, near TWEED HEADSbusy The park boasts a unique saltwater billabong and kids just love the aqua jump. Kayaks and stand-up paddle boards can also be hired.

• Two resort-style swimming pools • New waterpark with THREE themed areas • One area with waterslides • Another area with tipping bucket and slide • The third area has a toddler section with froggie slide • Coral Cove – toddlers’ underwater-themed room and playground tweedbillabong.com.au

© Shutterstock/Zurijeta

H O LI D A Y P A R K S

BIG4 Sunshine South West Rocks, NORTH COAST • Pirate-themed ‘Shipwreck Island Water Park’ • Play on the Pirate ship • Explore the skull cave!

• BIG Bucket of Splash!

• Super Slippery Slides big4sunshine.com.au

QLD

NRMA Treasure Island Holiday Park, GOLD COAST • Pirate themed waterpark • Three fantastic swimming pools • The main resort pool features a waterslide, wading area and separate children’s pool. Relax and watch the kids from the sun lounges under the shade sail • The lagoon pool, with waterfall and sun lounges, surrounds the Lagoon Deluxe Villas • The riverside pool, with sun lounges, is bordered by landscaped gardens and the 3 bedroom Townhouse Riverside Villas treasureisland.com.au

BIG4 Mackay Marine, MACKAY • The recently opened children’s water park and children’s playground, also suitable for toddlers, are ready for action • Caterpillar sprayers, water bubblers, mushrooms and ground sprayers. The fun goes both ways, water shoots up and tumbles down making for wet delight from top to bottom • A cool waterslide that goes right into the pool below • Alongside is the new children’s playground, giant jumping pillow, mini golf, another pool and a games room big4com.au BIG4 Airlie Cove, near AIRLIE BEACH • Brand new Water Park • Brand new Pirate Ship playground • Freeform Pool with waterslide, spa and toddlers pool airliecove.com.au SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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Kids School Holiday Activities Any time of the year is a great time of the year for a holiday park getaway, but peak season really kicks in during school holiday periods.

On top of all the usual fabulous activities, holiday parks roll out the red carpet for children over the school holidays with non-stop entertainment, family participation and fun, fun, fun galore added to an already bursting program of events and activities.

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BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, QLD BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort offers Kids Club every Saturday of the year for 4 to 12 year olds, a weekly Toddler Time and an action-packed weekly What’s on Guide. School holidays include additional fun activities, Kids Club every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, and a full-time Guest Activity Co-ordinator who keeps all the balls in the air with goo and gunk parties, disco under the stars, family trivia nights, outdoor movies and a whole lot more! The Park also hosts popular annual events including Chocolate Week in April, Grandparents Week in June and Santa’s Workshops in December. > adventurewhitsunday.com.au

H O LI D A Y P A R K S

Central Coast Holiday Parks, NSW

Eastern Beach Holiday Park, VIC

Central Coast Holiday Parks run FREE kids activities during all school holidays, including pony rides, treasure hunts, movie nights, wildlife shows, trivia nights, bingo, sand art, plaster painting, giant slides and giant outside games like snakes and ladders and sticky wall.

Outside school holidays, all Central Coast Holiday Parks have plenty of family-friendly facilities to keep the kids entertained - jumping pillows and resort-style pools at Norah Head Holiday Park and Toowoon Bay Holiday Park, grassed play areas and playgrounds and free WiFi. Each park is also perfectly situated in prime beachside and lakeside locations and conveniently close to all local Central Coast attractions and facilities such as cinemas, restaurants, cafes, shopping centres, sporting facilities, bike tracks and scenic walk tracks.

You’ll find a Central Coast Holiday Park at Norah Head, Toowoon Bay, Canton Beach and Budgewoi – all on the beautiful NSW Central Coast! > cchp.com.au

Aside from the children’s playground, jumping pillow and pool, this bush-by-the-water holiday park is a kids’ paradise! Special activities during the school holidays include something for everyone – from movie nights, arts and crafts and face painting to kids sports and maybe even a scavenger hunt!

And, at any time of the year, you can kayak along Cunninghame Arm, pick fresh herbs from the communal garden and cook up the night’s dinner in the park’s modern camp kitchen. Now that’s a real holiday adventure! > easternbeach.com.au

BIG4 Sunshine South West Rocks, NSW It’s a big time pirate-themed extravaganza of entertainment during school holidays at BIG4 Sunshine Holiday Park at South West Rocks on the NSW mid north coast. The opening of the park’s new $1 million Shipwreck Island means there’s always plenty of adventure in the holidays, centred on swashbuckling pirates, treasure hunts and a whole bunch of pirate-themed activities. Capt’n Shark Eye might even turn up to help guests dig up a buried treasure chest filled with gold chocolate coins & other prizes!

The Park’s Joey’s Kids Club all get involved in the action too, with activities that even spill out into the pool and Shipwreck Island’s real pirate ship! The Kids Club (for children under 12) operates throughout the school holidays and offers supervised activities including craft, art, games, trivia, bingo with guest appearances from characters such as Dora, Diego, Shrek, and Ben 10. > big4southwestrocks.com.au

Victor Harbor Beachfront Holiday Park, SA Only an hour’s drive from Adelaide, Victor Harbor Holiday Park is the perfect base from which to explore the beautiful Fleurieu Peninsula. The whole family can enjoy the beachfront setting, heated swimming pool, TV and games room and the kids will love the special FREE activities laid on in school holidays. The variety of activities changes each school holidays period but if you’re lucky when you stay, you might just be having fun with sand art, chilling out on movie night or even plaster painting. > victorbhp.com.au

NRMA Merimbula Beach Holiday Resort “Awesome, “lots of fun”, “totally cool” “I want to go back” are just a few of the words the friendly park staff hear from kids at the end of their Merimbula Beach holiday, because all year round, the super fun Kids Activity Program keeps all ages busy with art and craft, games and sport, sausage sizzles, movie nights or popular Karaoke nights! > merimbulabeachholidaypark.com.au

BIG4 North Star Holiday Resort & Caravan Park, NSW Just 20 minutes south of Tweed Heads is this fantastic kids holiday spot that turns on the fun rain, hail or shine! At Neptune’s Castle Kids Club children from 3 years to 12 years can indulge in non-stop FREE and fully-supervised activities including the 3-level spiral slide, ball pit, mirror maze, flying fox, arts and crafts and themed activities. The Kids Club is open every weekend and daily during school holidays.

Under threes don’t miss out … the Little Treasures Play Corner is just for them! And there’s always the amazing waterpark - Sammy’s Adventure Lagoon – with the fantabulous BIG DIPPER – a 600 litre bucket that fills with water from two giant 3D fibreglass fish, and dumps a cascade into the play area of the Lagoon every six minutes! Awesome fun at BIG4 North Star! > northstar.com.au

Opposite: BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday jumping pillow Left: Victor Harbor kids activities © ATPM

Above from top: Central Coast Holiday Parks BIG4 North Star Holiday Park BIG4 Northstar Holiday Park BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday.

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H OL IDA Y P AR KS

Coolum Beach Holiday Park A member of Sunshine Coast Holiday Parks Location Coolum Beach Holiday Park is located on Coolum Beach and is only a 15 minute drive from Sunshine Coast Airport, 1 hour 40 minutes from Brisbane and 12 hours from Sydney.

Water Fun The highlight of this holiday park is its beachside location, with access from the park via several tracks. Coolum Beach Surf Club is a couple hundred metres away and a stroll down the beach will have you swimming safely between the flags.

Food & Beverage Coolum Beach has a communal BBQ area for all to enjoy and of course the cabins are all ready for you to prepare meals at anytime. The location of this holiday park is a huge reason for staying - the beach on one side and

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an abundance of restaurants, cafes or take way shops for you to choose from on the other. Woolworths is only a 10 minute walk away.

Images © Sunshine Coast Holiday Parks

Accommodation Coolum Beach Holiday Park is so close to the beach you could almost paddle out from the camp site or villas. Located on David Low Way it sits between one of the Sunshine Coast’s famous beaches (Coolum Beach) and the main street of Coolum. The park has camping sites, many powered sites and, of course, villas.

Out & About with Kids stayed in one of the five two-bedroom villas within the park. The layout of this holiday park is driven towards powered sites, with the villas nestled in at the southern end. Our villa, with air con, was perfect for our stay and with bunks in the kids room and a very comfortable queen size bed we slept well and couldn’t fault the villa. It offers a wellappointed kitchen with everything we needed during our stay. The villa was bathed in sunlight for most of the day and we made good use of the verandah for a bit of extra space.

Activities Since Coolum is in Queensland where the weather is “beautiful one day and perfect the next” you need not go far for activities, the beach gives you the opportunity to be outdoors all day swimming, hitting a cricket ball, taking a walk or of course hanging 10 on a board. Other activities around the holiday park are cycling along the long bike tracks, a hit of golf at Mt Coolum Golf Course or you can head to Aussie World at Palmview (only a 30 minute drive towards Caloundra on the Sunshine Coast motorway) for a day out of great family fun. aussieworld.com.au OAWK Tip: See reception for a book full of discounts on attractions, restaurants and shops around Coolum and the Sunshine Coast.

Did you know The origin of the name Coolum appears to be derived from the Aboriginal word “gulum” or “kulum” meaning “blunt” or “headless”. It is assumed to refer to the shape of Mount Coolum, which has no peak. According to Aboriginal legend, Ninderry knocked off Coolum’s head and it fell into the ocean and is now Mudjimba Island.

Coolum Beach Holiday Park David Low Way, Coolum Beach Qld 4573 P: 07 5446 1474 E: coolum@sunshinecoastholidayparks.com.au sunshinecoastholidayparks.com.au/holiday_parks/ coolum_beach_holiday_park

MEMORIES ARE MADE OF THIS BaroSSa © SaTC / randy Larcombe

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Lyall Hotel and Spa 16 Murphy Street

South Yarra Melbourne Australia

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Š Kuranda Scenic Railway, Cairns

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Singapore is alive with fun and adventure that is there just waiting for you to discover! See the magnicent white tigers at Singapore Zoo, or venture into the Night Safari... the world’s rst safari park for nocturnal animals. River Safari offers an unforgettable adventure inspired by the world’s most iconic rivers. Experience the thrills of Universal Studios Singapore on Sentosa Island and the heights of the Singapore Flyer. It’s all there waiting for you! With so much to explore and fares so low, now is the time to get out there and start your Singapore safari. Fly Scoot. Save Loot!

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Etihad’s Flying Nanny Service passes with ‘flying’ colours when SUE WHITE tackles a long-haul flight to Europe with her travelling companion, 10-month-old Ollie!

Does a tropical holiday with five families and ten kids have to bust the ‘bliss factor’? Not in relaxing Rarotonga, says PENNY WEBB!

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Mary Poppins of the sky

A Boy’s Own sailing adventure – Lombok, Indonesia

Cook Islands – page 124

BARRY STONE sets sail on the waters of the Bali Sea, with 14-year-old son Jackson, on the ‘no-fixed-destination’ island-hopping maiden voyage of Al likai.

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Baby bonus!

Delighted new Granny, JULIE MILLER, is thrilled to experience Phuket on a multi-gen holiday - where baby Ellie is the star of the show!

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Relaxing Rarotonga – Cook Islands

North on The Legendary Pacific Coast LISA WILLOWS packs up the car and the kids and heads north to Yamba, Evans Head, Alstonville and Kingscliff, on the NSW north coast.

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Finding El Nido ANNE MAJUMDAR and family head to paradise to discover why more and more families are being drawn to this sensational spot, off the island of Palawan, in the Philippines.

Jump right in! – Tropical North Queensland Each time CARLA GROSSETTI revisits her hometown of Cairns, she doesn’t waste a moment - chasing down the fun, the novel, and the just plain exhilarating activities for families in TNQ.

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Mary Poppins of the sky A long haul flight with a baby is rarely fun. Accompanied by her 10-month-old son, SUE WHITE took a few deep breaths and set off on a Sydney to Europe flight, during which she would put the promise of Etihad’s Flying Nanny program – ‘A helping hand in the sky’ – to the test!

A

dult passport: check. Baby’s passport: check. Three changes of clothes for the 10month-old, one extra for me (just in case) and a swag of spare nappies? Check, check and check. Flying Nanny? Check.

Yes, really.

Free for all!

I’m about to fly long haul on Etihad Airways, where for the last couple of years an onboard nanny service has been part of the package. Sounds great, right?

But surely it’s only available for those in First Class?

Nope. Business Class then? Nope. For extra hardearned cash on top of your international ticket price?

Nope: access to the program is free for every Etihad passenger travelling with kids (and for unaccompanied minors).

It’s such a simple idea that I can’t believe this is a new thing. As anyone who has flown with a young baby will confirm, it’s not always relaxing. Other passengers know it too. When parents step onboard and feel the eyes of hundreds of passengers on them, we all know the kid-free travellers are thinking only two possible things. One: “That poor woman.” And two: “Please don’t let her be sitting near me.”

I can almost imagine a perplexed fan of Mary Poppins working behind the scenes at Etihad Airways conjuring up a solution. “Okay. So parents worry about flying long haul with their children. And other passengers don’t love noisy kids. How do we keep everyone happy?” Cue the Flying Nanny program. The airline sent a bunch of cabin crew to a top nannying school in the United Kingdom (Norland College) to learn about how best to help parents. Now, they ensure that one nanny (or more) is installed on every long haul flight to help families from the time of boarding until they exit the aircraft.

Too good to be true?

Still, everything sounds good on paper, but like most parents flying long haul with a baby for the first time, it’s with trepidation that I approach the whole experience. This is not just long haul, it’s uber long

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Oliver White ... ready to fly haul; Sydney to Europe courtesy of a 14-hour stint, backed up by another seven hours in the air. Checking my pram at the gate (another benefit of flying Etihad – I’ve kept it with me for the baby to nap at the airport) and looking down at my unsuspecting 10- month-old son, I wonder if he knows what lies ahead.

More than a mere spoonful of sugar…

Stepping onboard, we’re greeted by a smiling woman in an orange apron. “I’m Tracey, your Flying Nanny,” she chimes in a UK accent. Given Ollie is strapped to my body, Tracey can see he’s not on offer – but I can see she’d be happy to carry him if not. Instead, she grabs my hand luggage and helps us settle into our seat. It quickly becomes apparent we’ve scored a bassinette (most airlines will do this, although there’s often stiff competition depending on the number of babies on board), a neighbour with an 11 year old, and a nanny who genuinely seems to love babies.

Turns out, I could have saved a lot of brain cells

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surround yourself with options Mall of America速 is the largest U.S. shopping and family entertainment center located next to Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP) in Minnesota. Enjoy world-class shopping at 520 stores with no sales tax on clothing and shoes. Experience hours of family fun at the biggest U.S. indoor theme park, aquarium, zip line, 50 restaurants, 400 free annual events and much more. Select from over 50 hotels located within 10 minutes, all offering free shuttle service to the Mall and MSP Airport. mallofamerica.com

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bloomingtonmn.org

Z I M M E R / M A D I C H 2015 MOA Tourism | Out & About with Kids

7540 Marketplace Drive, Minneapolis MN 55344 Trim: 210 x 275

Frequent flyer worrying. I could also have jammed a lot less into my carry on. Nappies, for example. (“We have them,” offers Tracey.) The nannies also provide entertainment kits for older kids and are proactive in explaining the service. “Call us if you need any mess cleaned up. Call us if you need nappies. Call if you need help. Call us if he needs entertaining.”

It’s nice to hear, but what’s more reassuring is that Flying Nannies actually know what they’re doing.

Support all the way It’s easy to ‘want’ to help someone with a baby, but there’s an art to it. Talking to the Flying Nannies, I discover their training is about just this; before taking action, what will be the most useful – supporting the parent, or supporting the child?

I quickly appreciate that the Flying Nannies on both our flights engage with my son, but are not ‘in his face’.

While employees in regular contact with kids can be good at this, that’s more of a hit and miss proposition.

(Take the enthusiastic staffer on one European train who says “Hi” to my baby before deliberately flashing a laser light in his eyes as a game.)

Of course, it’s still a long flight, and there are downsides. Baby food here really means baby food – purees. If your bub is on more ‘solid’ solids, bring something heartier with you. Glancing at the 11 year old dining two seats away on pasta and fruit salad, it seems the older kids’ meals look pretty good. (Actually, she rejects the fruit, but kindly passes it to my son, who digs in.)

There’s also the small matter of sleep. If you do happen to jag a bassinette, it pays to be forewarned

that on most airlines, if your baby is asleep and the seatbelt sign comes on you’ll have to lift him or her out. It’s a sensible safety precaution of course, but one that leaves me feeling slightly apprehensive at the first sign of every bump.

Smooth soaring While it’s tempting to feign disaster for the nannies to work their magic, the final result is pretty low key. It’s something I often hear from parents flying long haul – the idea of it is usually worse than the reality. Ollie sleeps nine of fourteen hours on leg one (and even I clock about six hours). I eat, thanks to nannies ensuring the meals are well timed. I go to the toilet with someone keeping an eye on the sleeping bub. And I decide to test them out on the free nappies (yes, they exist). Still, it goes so smoothly I have to wonder. Is it the bassinette?

My good-natured son? Or simply Tracey waving her magical stardust over the whole experience?

Even during our nanny’s breaks, I feel like I’ve had to fight off cabin crew offers to hold my son, which makes organising my bags and actually functioning feel very civilised. But if they’re angling for a nanny role, they have some stiff competition. The pram is at the door, and so is Tracey, with a handmade card for Ollie to celebrate his first long haul flight. She’s delighted it went so well, and if delighted is a synonym for relieved, then so am I.

> Etihad’s Flying Nanny program commenced in September 2013. etihad.com/en-au/experience-etihad/familytravel/onboard/

The writer flew courtesy of Etihad Airways.

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A Boy’s Own sailing adventure – Lombok, Indonesia

© Shutterstock.com

BARRY STONE and 14-year-old son, Jackson, set sail for a nine-day, Indonesian island-to-island adventure at sea, on the maiden voyage of the Al likai.

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he bow of the Al likai sliced through the waters of the Bali Sea, her sails gorged with a late afternoon breeze. The island of Pulau Moro was off to port, and Bali’s Mount Agung was beginning to rise above a far horizon. We were coming home. For eight days our Indonesian-built pinisi, a traditional twinmasted schooner not unlike an Arabian dhow, with a curvaceous black scalloped hull, had been our refuge.

Give her a set of tattered sails, a Jolly Roger and a heavy fog, and she could have been Captain Jack Sparrow’s Black Pearl itself. Every young boy’s dream made real.

On the bowsprit My 14-year old son Jackson and I had been invited on Al likai’s maiden voyage of “no-fixed-destination”, nine days spent meandering from island to island in the waters east of Lombok, seeking out deserted beaches and snorkelling, and dive sites for future itineraries. And where was my boy as we sailed into the early evening at the end of another lazy day? Where he’d been during most dusks since setting sail - on the bowsprit, his legs dangling beneath its web of Indonesian hardwoods, a blue ocean three metres beneath his feet and his first Agatha Christie novel - Murder at the Vicarage - open on his lap. Silhouetted before a plunging Indonesian sun amongst a kaleidoscope of ropes, wood and canvas, his head bowed as he read, he was content and happy.

I found myself smiling. There he was . . . my son . . . lost in the pages of a 1930s world of tea and scones, of politeness and church on Sundays and tweed jackets and telephones with cords. In that moment he never looked so grown-up, so full of promise and potential.

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Real world adventure I’ve never been of the opinion that iPods, mobile phones and the internet threaten to rob our children of their childhood. The spectre of rampant technology is real, but it is bluster, mostly, and could never compete with all we had seen here. Back home Jackson is as connected and tech-savvy as any teenager, but he hadn’t so much as mentioned the internet in a week now.

Teenagers crave the kind of thrills and challenges this past week had given us. To be in a zodiac as it whisks them through fringing coral reefs to a beach on an uninhabited island; to snorkel through coral and along reef drop-offs in a region that possesses a level of diversity the Great Barrier Reef can only dream about; to swing on a rope over a waterfall and plunge into the river below; to swim with black-tipped reef sharks and touch the back of a green turtle off the Gili islands.

Family suite forward!

Al likai is an ironic mix of all the things both parents and kids generally look for in a holiday. Exclusivity.

Tranquility. Good food. Adventure. Sure, its seven airconditioned staterooms might have fine cotton sheets and its en suites tumbled marble walls and granite floors, and yes the average age of its guests might be “up there” a little. But don’t think for a minute this is a vessel onto which you can’t bring kids. There’s even a fabulous family suite forward, with three bunks and a double bed!

Salty tales from the galley Teenagers want to be treated as grown-ups. Jackson talked one-on-one with the Sulawesi-born cooks in Al

likai’s galley, and sat with us around the dinner table and heard tales of lives lived hard, of fortunes made and lost, with sentences that only entrepreneurial Australian ex-pats could utter that began with lines like: “When my %$&#@ lawyer was arrested . . .” with no thought given to toning down often colourful language.

Jackson revelled in all this, in not sensing that stories were being somehow trimmed simply because he was there. That’s what boys his age with his level of maturity want. Just to be “one of us”. And they want to have fun.

water-less crater - creating a lake that remains encircled to this day by a thick, almost impenetrable jungle.

Al likai is the pedigreed face of Indonesian Island Sail, and she can get you to these places and more, the sort of places even many Balinese would have trouble finding on a map. Sailing on her is a high-end experience at a down-to-earth price, and it comes anchored to one of its colourful owners’ typically earthy propositions: “Life is short. So make sure you live it”.

Just don’t forget to bring those young adults.

From the decks of a wooden boat …

On Al likai you can jump off its railings, sit on its bowsprit, visit its bridge whenever you want or swim a lap of its hull. The stuff you’ll never do on a superliner cruise ship. And we learned things, too. We dropped anchor off isolated boat-building communities where other pinisi are being built right on the beaches, from Ironwood and Bangkirai, their hulls held together with blind dowels and wooden tree nails with compacted wood shavings to caulk their joints. The way boats have been made in these islands for hundreds of years.

We snorkelled twice a day every day, and visited remarkable places like Pulau Satonda, to the north of Sumbawa, where a planned one night stay morphed into two because no one could tear themselves away from snorkelling its astounding reef. Satonda even has an inland lake, the result of the eruption of nearby Mount Tambora in April 1815, one of the largest explosions in recorded history. The Tambora explosion was so shattering it ripped a hole in the ozone layer, and the tidal wave that followed engulfed tiny Satonda, spilling into what was then its land-locked,

FACT BOX From Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport take a taxi to Al likai’s moorage at nearby Serangan Harbour.

Friends

Visit indonesianislandsail. com for information on Al likai, including sailing schedules, prices, and photo gallery.

Al likai is also available for private charter.

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Discover our secrets and share #MyCentaraSecrets

Treat yourself to a fabulous family spring break at Centara, where we know taking care of your children is taking care of you. At our luxurious but family-friendly range of hotels and resorts, your children stay and play absolutely free. And they’ll have the time of their lives at our supervised, multi-age full-time kids’ clubs, as well as at our amazing waterparks.

Snorkeling adventures and other outdoor activities will also keep your children busy and entertained while you do just as you please - we recommend just relaxing at our spas and reclining on the beach.

BOOK DIRECT FOR OUR BEST PRICE PROMISE www.centarahotelsresorts.com • T: 02 9018 9322 • E: rsoaus@chr.co.th

THAILAND

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BALI

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MALDIV ES

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S R I LANK A

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V IETNAM

BABY bonus!

Š Shutterstock/Joey Santini

Granny Ju-Ju (aka JULIE MILLER) enjoys her first multi-generational family holiday, with baby Ellie the star of the Phuket show.

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t’s my turn to babysit, and I couldn’t be happier. I’ve waved my daughter Jo and her boyfriend Nic off on a romantic stroll along the beach, leaving me in charge of my 11-month-old granddaughter Ellie, precious time with precious cargo.

But as I push her pram through the gardens of Sunwing Resort Kamala Beach in Phuket, I soon realise I’m not the only one vying for the baby’s attention. “Ellie, Ellie – so cute!” a therapist from the massage sala coos, rushing out to greet us. “Foot massage, madam?” she offers. “We’ll look after the baby, you sit down and rest.”

Gosh, don’t mind if I do! So while I’m kneaded and pummelled in the shade of a swaying palm tree, Ellie is cuddled and squeezed; she is introduced to delicate purple orchids, treated to a game of Peek-a-Boo, and taught to count to three in Thai.

For Australian families with young children, Thailand is a great holiday destination. Affordable, quality resorts abound, many with excellent childcare and kids club facilities; it’s culturally easy, exotic and colourful without being too challenging; and Thai people adore children.

Happy baby This is our first multi-generational holiday, and our choice of destination has been carefully researched.

Although Phuket represents the more commercial face of Thailand, direct flights from Sydney and facilities such as well-stocked supermarkets are hugely appealing, helping to fulfil the baby’s requirements as

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well as our desire for sun and sand.

We’ve also discovered a baby-friendly resort: Sunwing Kamala Beach. Here, the focus is on the youngest member of the family, with 30 dedicated Happy Baby Studios providing everything an infant requires: cot, change mat, baby bath, playmat and a Bumbo chair. They also supply a pram for the duration of your stay – not just a cheap stroller, but a sturdy, quality pram with adjustable seating and a tray for carrying a nappy bag. Knowing that these bulky essentials are already in situ is a huge relief, and lessens the burden of travel considerably.

Sunwing is a large, modern resort well-positioned, with beachfront access, and just a short stroll to a charming shopping street. The ground floor Happy Baby Studios open straight onto one of seven swimming pools, with fenced gardens preventing errant toddlers from straying into danger. To be able to just step outside our door and into that shimmering liquid is pure bliss (particularly at cocktail hour, with a swim-up bar serving delicious beverages!); and waterbaby Ellie loves to paddle around in her blow-up safety ring under our supervision.

Meal times at the resort are naturally kid-centric, with plenty of high chairs available to accommodate little diners. And while Ellie is a little too young to enjoy Kids Club activities, she does seem fascinated with the resort’s roving mascots, Lollo the Giraffe and Bernie the Bear, who make regular poolside appearances as well as leading pre-dinner entertainment for the children.

...while I’m kneaded and pummelled... “ Ellie is cuddled and squeezed... ” Beach bliss We don’t have to travel far to experience Phuket’s main attraction – lovely white sand beaches, now thankfully pollution and sunbed free after a recent clean-up campaign and crackdown on illegal vendors.

The trendiest way to experience these sandy shores is at one of Phuket’s luxury beach clubs, where you can eat, drink and dance to the grooves of international DJs in a beachfront setting.

Although usually the domain of urbane singles, the stylish XANA Beach Club with Attica – located at the Angsana Laguna Phuket Hotel at Bang Tao Bay – has dedicated peak season Sundays (November to April) to families, with the Sunday Fun Brunch offering gourmet bites from an extensive buffet, chill-out time by the pool and children’s activities, accompanied by the soulful sounds of award-winning saxophonist, Coco Jamboo.

While older children line up for face painting, sandcastle building and beach volleyball, Ellie naps in her pram under the shade of an umbrella as I watch

on lazily, sprawled on a double sun lounger, cocktail in hand. It’s the perfect antidote to jetlag, and certainly the most relaxing start to a holiday imaginable.

Getting around Being resort-bound is not on our agenda - we’re keen to explore as much of the island as possible during our one-week holiday and Phuket is a deceptively large island. Taxis are notoriously expensive so we opt to rent a car for a day to explore beyond the west coast.

Driving these manic streets can be a challenge; but beyond the chaos of Patong, we discover lush mountain viewpoints, tranquil southern bays and beautifullyrestored Sino-Portuguese architecture in the main city of Phuket Town.

Further north, we visit some gibbons swinging through bamboo groves at the Gibbon Rehabilitation Centre (which rescues captive gibbons and prepares them for re-release into the jungle) before trekking to a lovely waterfall, its cool pools offering welcome relief on a steamy day.

Left: Sunwing Resort Kamala Beach © Sunwing Resort Kamala Beach

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To experience Phuket at its best, get out on the water!

Anticipating that this activity will preclude Ellie, I offer to babysit while Jo and Nic join John Gray’s Sea Canoe ‘Hong by Starlight’ tour, paddling around the limestone cliffs of spectacular Phang Nga Bay. Safety is our main concern – tiny lifejackets don’t seem to exist in Thailand, with the smallest available suitable for three-year-olds; but after long discussions with company owner John Gray, it is agreed that the baby and I come along as well, at least to enjoy the boat trip to the islands.

It’s a glorious, sunny day; and after a tasty vegetarian buffet on board, I rock Ellie to sleep in her pram as her parents head out in kayaks to explore, returning abuzz with stories of cheeky macaques, mudskippers and tiny bats.

The kayaks utilised on John Gray’s tours are sturdy and almost impossible to tip; and Nic decides he’ll carry Ellie on the next excursion, safely cradled in his arms.

With a staff member paddling, guests can just relax and absorb the sights as the kayaks are manoeuvred through dark caves, emerging into a hidden paradise of soaring cliffs, verdant sun-streaked jungle and silent pools of waters.

Ellie can barely contain her excitement, bouncing up and down and dragging her little hand through the water; and I can’t help but smile indulgently at her enthusiasm, a child’s first awareness of nature in all its glory.

Top: Kids entertainment and La Tasca at Sunwing Resort Kamala Beach

> sunwingkamala.com > xanabeachclub.com > johngray-seacanoe.com > au.tourismthailand.org

Lollo the Giraffe and Bernie the Bear

© Sunwing Resort Kamala Beach

© Sunwing Resort Kam ala Beach

On the water

The writer travelled as a guest of Sunwing Kamala Beach and John Gray Sea Canoe.

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Jump right in!

– Tropical North Queensland CARLA GROSSETTI grew up in Tropical North Queensland. When she returns to her hometown of Cairns with her boys there’s never a dull moment!

Cairns Esplanade © CoolR / Shutterstock.com

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Pebbly Beach, near Thala Beach

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“

ey mum, watch this,” yells my son Fin, 12, as he zips over the cage of a 4m-long saltwater crocodile under the Cairns Wildlife Dome. Sure, he is hooked up to a harness attached to a safety cable and Goliath is contained in a Perspex cage.

But as the mother of a daredevil renowned for innumerable dodgy escapades, I can’t help but brace myself when he mutters this seemingly innocuous phrase.

It’s mid-afternoon and the sun is filtering through the 20m-high glass dome and lighting up the horny, textured skin of the giant beast. Although estuarine crocodiles are considered to be serious killing machines and very territorial, Goliath is clearly well fed and doesn’t take the bait as it floats above his head. The high ropes course that zigzags around the Dome is like string art, looping us around nature-based attractions that, while they slow the pace, are of great interest to my two energetic sons.

itinerary and Fin and Marley, 11, get a good workout doing laps of the cable ski course. The boys’ favourite TV show is Ninja Warrior and the next item on their agenda is the inflatable obstacle course at Cairns Aqua Park, which shares the manmade lagoon. “My Ninja Warrior name is going to be Dogmatix and you can be Cacofonix,” says Marley, who is also obsessed with Asterix & Obelisk.

The course is exhilarating and challenging and the boys bounce about doing what looks like comedic parkour, flipping, somersaulting, leaping and faceplanting onto the garish floating playground filled with air.

The action-packed excitement leaves us all feeling tuckered out and ready to hit the hot tub at Pepper’s Beach Club & Spa Palm Cove. After spending the afternoon reviving in our swanky suite, The Husband and I sip cocktails at sundown while the boys play classic catches in the pool.

In the wake of our adventure

When you’re travelling with a child who suffers from motion sickness, it requires a bit more effort to get to the outer reef. That’s why a day trip to Fitzroy Island where you can snorkel alongside leatherback turtles and explore coral gardens just metres offshore - was on our bucket-and-spade list.

After leaving Cairns on a fast cat bound for the island, we went straight from the boat to our low-

Whether you’re a regular visitor to Tropical North Queensland or it’s your first foray, what you’ll find is that the region is a haven for active families.

I spent my childhood in Cairns, so to return with my two tween-age sons makes me recall all the thrills and spills I enjoyed at their age.

Cairns Wake Park is the second stop on our

Tending turtles

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Left: Apple the Wallaby at Thala Beach Lodge © Thala Beach Lodge

STAY Peppers Beach Club & Spa peppers.com.au Thala Beach Lodge thalabeach.com.au Fitzroy Island Resort fitzroyisland.com Jabiru Safari Lodge jabirusafarilodge.com.au

PLAY Cairns Wildlife Dome cairnszoom.com.au Cairns Wake Park and Aqua Park cairnswakepark.com Save Our Sea Turtles saveourseaturtles.com.au Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail ksr.com.au skyrail.com.au

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slung cabin on the sand. A highlight during the island idyll was our visit to the Save Our Sea Turtles Rehabilitation Centre, which has helped 300 turtles return to the wild in the past 14 years. “After the floods in 2010 and Cyclone Yasi in 2011, there was an 800 per cent increase in turtles being stranded and the centre was relocated to Fitzroy Island,” our volunteer guide Jen Maloney, a marine biologist, tells us. In 2012, the centre took over the infrastructure from a disused prawn farm on Fitzroy Island and in just three years has established itself as the largest volunteer-based turtle rehabilitation centre in Australia.

Jen is clearly very fond of the turtles in her care and we learn a lot of trivia about green sea turtles – “their body fat is green” and “they are known to bear a grudge” - while watching Ella and Margaret do laps of the holding tank. It’s like physio for turtles and while it’s upsetting to hear firsthand about the injuries they receive from propellers, hooks, plastic and wads of string, it’s uplifting to hear of the work done to help rescue, rehabilitate and release them into the wild.

She’ll be apples Back on the mainland, we enjoy another wildlife encounter at our overnight accommodation at Thala Beach Lodge when we meet the only wild wallaby in the world with her own hashtag: #AppletheWallaby. It’s not just the wildlife that has the wow factor; this place is paradise.

A few days later, we turn our back to the coast and take a jaunt to Jabiru Safari Lodge on the Atherton

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Tablelands where we spot pygmy geese and pied cormorants and watch a fleet of black swans take off like overloaded cargo planes over the Mareeba wetlands.

At dusk, when the sun burns the sky red over Clancy’s Lagoon, I ask my son Fin what he most enjoyed about the day. “I liked learning that termite mounds are made of soil, saliva and faeces,” he deadpans. After dinner, we dodge a few termite bollards on our way back to our prepitched canvas ‘glamping’ tent and sit around the fire counting the stars that streak across the sky.

Rainforest bounty The rainforest is our backdrop again on our final day as we clickety-clack 328m above sea level with Kuranda Scenic Railways. “Let’s hold our breath through every corner and tunnel,” says Fin. Given there are 15 tunnels and 98 curves he needs a lot of puff. There are also 55 bridges, 163 cuttings and an extreme 180-degree turn along the railway line that was carved into the edge of a mountain by hand in 1891. It was while soaring back to Earth on Skyrail that I took time to reflect: coming back to Cairns is always a frenzy as the scenery is so compelling, it feels wrong for me not to get amongst it! As well as being a fabulous place to take the kids, it provides endless opportunities to unleash the child within. Now did someone say ‘siesta’?

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Photographers: Joann oa e Buck + Paul Osta l www w.TheRaro rotong tongan.c n om

PLAY FREE IN PARADISE!

Now your family can feel the freedom of Paradise with the NEW DIRECT FLIGHT from Australia to the heart of the South Pacific, Rarotonga! At the 4-star Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa your family can enjoy the island’s best beach and lagoon, including ALL-TIDE safe swimming in the Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve, the island’s best snorkelling lagoon protected by a natural coral reef from the open ocean (no stingers or sharks to worry about!). KIDS STAY FREE! KIDS PLAY FREE @ the amazing Moko’s Kids Club – includes KIDS NATURE & CULTURE DISCOVERY PROGRAMME! FREE Snacks & Drinks at Kids Club sessions! FREE Kids Welcome Pack! NEW Banana Beach Playland crèche (0-3 years; charges apply). NEW Teen Zone!

Extensive FREE Activities Programme for all the family with snorkelling, kayaking, tennis, beach sports, games room, learn to dance the hula, play the ukulele & log drums, make a lei, husk a coconut + much more. Around Rarotonga enjoy 4WD Safari Tour, Glass-Bottom Boat Lagoon Cruise, rainforest trek to see one of the world’s rarest birds, Saturday Market, cafes & restaurants – all minutes away! The tropical island family holiday of your dreams awaits you at The Rarotongan!

Aroa Beach + Lagoon Marine Reserve l Rarotonga l COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25800 l F 25799 info@rarotongan.co.ck | www.TheRarotongan.com S I S T E R

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Relaxing Rarotonga

Holidaying on a tropical island means blissful moments under palm trees, floating in tranquil waters and sipping pina coladas watching the sun go down. Or does it? PENNY WEBB finds out if that imagined bliss still holds true on a two-week Cook Islands holiday with five families and ten kids aged between two and 14!

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Š Shutterstock/BlueOrange Studio

– Cook Islands

© Shutterstock/ChameleonsEye

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lissful moments under palm trees are punctuated by shouts of “Mum! Watch me!” Floating on your back in the lagoon means navigating your way through a flotilla of inflatable lilos and water fights. And that pina colada? You’ll get indigestion from drinking it quickly while umpiring a sibling wrestling match.

But that’s okay. We had a ball and there are plenty of things to keep kids busy on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

The Cook Islands is a stunning archipelago of fifteen islands in the South Pacific and Rarotonga is the largest island and home to the international airport, where we landed after a six hour direct flight from Sydney on Air New Zealand.

Rarotonga is beautiful yes, but not big. The main road circling the island is just a 32km stretch but the beautiful lagoon that surrounds the entire island affords plenty of perfect spots for swimming – and that’s how you keep ten children entertained for two weeks on a tropical island!

Most mornings were spent at the beach with the kids happily swimming and playing while we chatted and read under the palm trees. By afternoon we were ready to do something else - catch the local bus into town or head out in our motorcade.

and that was us.

We ventured off to Wigmore’s Waterfall, which can be temperamental sometimes with no water at all. We were lucky. There was plenty of water, time for a quick swim and we also met Pa, a famous local herbalist and owner of Pa’s Treks.

The teenagers and dads kept busy at Rarotonga Golf Course and Coco Putt Mini Golf and a deep sea fishing trip was organised for the keen anglers in the group.

The most beautiful excursion was on a boat with a local captain. Anchored near the reef, we had lunch onboard and spent three hours snorkelling. It was exhilarating and a truly tropical travel experience.

We also discovered The Hidden Spirit Café and Gardens after spotting a sign for ‘the world’s best cheesecake.’ Enough to make any motorcade pull over!

Nestled in stunning gardens, we ordered dessert for lunch while the kids ran off some steam. Huge servings of the most delicious cheesecake and chocolate cake kept the grown-ups very happy - but put on the Aerogard! It’s a hidden, tropical garden so mosquitoes hang about. Perhaps they liked the cheesecake too?

Exploring the island

Food favourites

Getting around to explore was easy. We hired mopeds, and a mini bus for those of us who weren’t too keen on sightseeing from the back of a moped! Think the Brady Bunch holidaying with the Leyland brothers

Eating out on overseas holidays can be hit and miss but the Cook Islands did not disappoint. Our party was 22 people (and that can be overwhelming for restaurant staff!) but our group never felt

Relaxing in Rarotonga

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“One of our favourite spots to swim was near the airport where the kids, waist deep in water, watched planes land and take-off. It wasn’t exactly Heathrow, but they loved it!”

anything less than most welcome and boy, did the food deliver! Prepare yourself for a less urgent approach to service and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Trader Jack’s in Avarua has a huge menu, is a quick bus ride from the resort and the perfect place to watch the sun go down. Another favourite was LBV at Muri Beach. Masquerading as a delicious deli and café by day, it’s a beautiful restaurant at night just five minutes’ walk from Pacific Resort. Order the steak then walk home barefoot on the beach.

Tamarind House is just outside of Avarua and a personal favourite. The atmosphere is exactly what you would expect from a Polynesian beachfront restaurant. They do welcome children but are clear about expectations of behaviour and recommend families eat earlier. We followed the rules and had a

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wonderful time.

Sails Restaurant at the Rarotonga Sailing Club was a two minute walk along the beach from our resort, and unforgettable. The kids kept busy in between courses on the sand below us as we sat on the verandah watching the sun set over the Muri Lagoon.

Saltwater Café in Titikaveka was our go-to place when we were day or half-day tripping. Fresh fish and chips and great burgers were washed down with ice cold drinks. Rebuilt after a fire last year, the café is spick and span, fresh and fabulous.

Paradise with kids!

By the end of two weeks, the adults were relaxed and the kids were happy and tired – in a good way.

We ate fresh, delicious food and swam every day in a stunning lagoon – and our wonderful Polynesian travel experience - yes, even with five families and ten kids - left me pining for the South Pacific from the moment we left the Cook Islands behind!

> cookislands.travel > airnewzealand.com.au/destination-cookislands-rarotonga

> therarotongan.com > pacificrarotonga.com

More of what you want less of what you don’t

Isn’t it refreshing when a hotel gives you more of what you want and less of what you don’t? More sleep with an 11am check-out, more hearty breakfast to kick start your day and 17 fantastic locations across Australia and New Zealand. It’s how a hotel should be.

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North on

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Travelling through Yamba, Evans Head and on to Kingscliff, LISA WILLOWS takes her children on a mini-break road trip to explore these iconic North Coast NSW holiday towns on The Legendary Pacific Coast.

I

hadn’t been to Yamba since I was a child, but I had memories of it being a beautiful place that had provided me with a feeling of happiness. I packed up Jett and Lola and together we began our journey travelling north on the Pacific Highway.

Destination Yamba The little coastal town is blessed with stunning waterways and beaches and as it loomed into view, past sugar cane and palm trees, Jett said he felt like he was going on a tropical holiday. As it turned out, the Blue Dolphin Holiday Park matched Jett’s description perfectly.

Our riverfront villa was surrounded by tropical palms – and what an amazing location on the Clarence River!

On our first exploration around the park, we came across an extensive network of heated pools, complete with swim up bar. Were we in Fiji? We raced back to the cabin to change into our swimmers!

The delighted kids embraced the tiered waterslides, bucket dump and dolphin-adorned swimming areas.

We enjoyed walks along the river and out on a big jetty, and if we thought our accommodation was in an enviable position, our dinner table position at the Yamba Shores Tavern, was definitely in competition - a large covered deck overlooking a fabulous eye level, waterfront view! Set in beautiful grounds, the tavern was vibrant, with spaciously appointed tables arranged along a glass fence that allows perfect viewing of the river. The food was great and the service friendly, and while we waited for our meal the kids cavorted in the huge playground while I stayed warm by the big outdoor heaters, watching fish play on the surface of the water.

Evans Head to Alstonville The next morning we gazed on the boats coming and going along the Clarence River, before packing up for the hour’s drive north to Evans Head. En route we spotted a funky- looking café called ‘Evans to Betsy’, that beckoned us to stop. Warm and inviting, I struck up conversation with Clayton and Shelly, the friendly owners, who epitomise all things ‘sustainable’ and ‘community’ here. Friends bake the fresh sourdough bread and many of the ingredients on the dailychanging menu are sourced locally, or made by Clayton, including yummy gluten free options. Sourdough bread, jams and pickles are also available to purchase.

Evans Head is still relatively untouched by development, and offers spectacular swimming spots.

We took a lovely drive around the town and then

headed off to our next destination, Alstonville.

Set against the hills of the Alstonville Plateau, we discovered Summerland House Farm, a working farm, ripe with fields of macadamia and avocado trees set in immaculate gardens, run by the House With No Steps charity.

The farm’s founder, Lionel Watts, set up Summerland House to provide a workplace for people with disabilities and at the original building that now serves as the Watts Cottage Museum we learned of his battle to create equal opportunities for people with a disability.

At the onsite café, we sampled delicious macadamia crumbed chicken salad for lunch, followed by a tractor tour through the rambling fields, tomato picking and a game of putt putt golf.

I needed a power break, so I sat in the beautiful gardens while the kids had fun in the playground and water park. Summerland House Farm is a ‘must do’ not only is it beautiful and relaxing, but its story is inspirational.

Surf’s up at Kingscliff Next stop Kingscliff, and our accommodation at Mantra on Salt Beach. We were blown away by the beauty of Kingscliff, and the Resort itself is surrounded by coastal pathways into Casuarina and Kingscliff.

Our two bedroom Deluxe Spa Suite, on the ocean side, featured sweeping views of Salt Beach from the balcony, so we kicked back whale-and-surfer-spotting for the rest of the afternoon. Jett was very impressed that he could watch tv from the spa bath!

Opposite: Kingscliff Beach © Shutterstock/Martin Valigursky

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angourie broomshead copmanhurst glenreagh grafton iluka maclean minniewater nymboida ulmarra wooli yamba

family fun in the clarence

Northern New South Wales

 pristine beaches  fishing  boating  canoeing  horse-riding  national parks Take time to enjoy a family adventure in the natural wonders of the Clarence.

For information on activities, events and kid friendly accommodation, visit one of our visitor centres at Grafton and Maclean or call

02 6642 4677

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exotic fruits - the biggest in the world! We stopped to sample fruit, pick bananas and crack macadamia nuts straight from the tree, before being dropped off at a lake and given food to feed ducks and giant koi fish. Then it was over a small bridge to a baby animal farm, where my delighted children were able to hand feed goats, sheep, cows, horses and kangaroos, and then whisked away for a wildlife boat cruise! It felt like we were in a Harrison Ford movie. We stopped at an island recreation area and were treated to a mini steam train ride, and ‘free play’ on a huge variety of old school play equipment. Lola was in heaven on the flying fox, while Jett played ring toss with another boy.

Brunswick Heads to Home

That evening, we dressed up and went out for dinner at Seasons Restaurant at Peppers Salt Resort & Spa, which is a short walk from the Mantra. Even though this was a top-notch restaurant, it was still very family-friendly and the kids feasted on delicious spaghetti meatballs while I had the barramundi, which was exquisite.

After a fantastic night’s sleep we headed straight for the buffet breakfast, the choice of foods exceeding even my expectations of pleasing two fussy little eaters! We sat outside in the sun by the pool eating our breakfast, followed by a swim in the heated ‘Tropical’ pool.

Sad to leave the Mantra, we were nevertheless excited to visit Tropical Fruit World, and lucky to snag seats on the first tractor tour. Travelling through orchard after orchard, our fantastic tour host informed us that the plantation has a collection of over 500

I had one last thing planned for Jett and Lola before we started the drive home. We arrived at Byron Bay Eco Cruises and Kayaks in Brunswick Heads, and began our exciting cruise (with binoculars!) up the Brunswick River. We had barely left the marina when a giant green turtle greeted us! One of our hosts, Simon, an environmental scientist, seemed to be an expert on everything and an exceptional presenter. His lovely wife Lorraine is a bird enthusiast and we learnt lots about bird watching as we spotted ospreys, eagles, kingfishers and egrets. We spied fish and stingrays and were taken to Fig Tree Hole whose centrepiece is a tree that is over 200 years old. Lorraine served up hot chocolate and coffee and yummy cakes as we cruised past mangroves and breathtaking scenery. Jett and Lola were fullyengaged and interacting for the whole trip. As we made our way back to shore after our two and a half hour excursion, both kids took turns driving the boat, topping off a truly fantastic North Coast family weekend getaway!

More Information The Legendary Pacific Coast pacificcoast.com.au Blue Dolphin Holiday Resort, Yamba bluedolphin.com.au Yamba Shores Tavern yambashorestavern.com.au Evans to Betsy Café, Evans Head facebook.com/ evanstobetsycafe Summerland House Farm, Alstonville summerlandhousefarm. com.au Mantra on Salt Beach, Kingscliff mantraonsaltbeach.com.au Peppers Salt Resort & Spa, Kingscliff peppers.com.au/salt/ Tropical Fruit World, Duranbah tropicalfruitworld.com.au Byron Bay Eco Cruises and Kayaks byronbaycruises.com.au

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The Fiji Islands

Finding El Nido Families are discovering the beautiful marine reserve of El Nido, off the island of Palawan in the Philippines, in ever-growing numbers. For ANNE MAJUMDAR and her family, El Nido proves its emerging reputation as the “Boracay for families�.

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miniscule turtle, no bigger than the palm of my hand, waggles its tiny flippers about halfway along a dramatic white sandbar streak that breaks through the turquoise waters of Bacuit Bay, in the marine reserve of El Nido. Our guide Fritz scoops the little guy up and places him carefully in a bucket, which he sets in our outrigger boat moored just off Snake Island.

“He’s lost his way,” he explains, adding that he will take the tiny creature to the El Nido Resorts marine experts at Pangulasian Island who will return him to a more suitable environment away from tourists. This ecological sanctuary is home to no less than five of the world’s endangered turtle species and, each year, guests of El Nido Resorts can take part in a turtle hatching ceremony on Helicopter Island – an activity that particularly delights the younger guests.

Destination drawcards Families are now flocking to this previously unknown destination. The launch of Cebu Pacific’s low-cost and non-stop services between Sydney and Manila 12 months ago has made the Philippines more affordable than ever for Australian families in search of South East Asian sunshine. And while Boracay remains a popular destination for many fun-seeking Aussies, El Nido is fast establishing itself as the “Boracay for families” thanks to its abundance of activities that appeal to all ages.

Marine magic Turtles are just one of the drawcards for little travellers.

At Miniloc Island each morning, snorkellers are surrounded by giant jackfish as they cluster amid the in-house reef for the daily feeding ritual. Although the practice has been criticised by some for interrupting the natural order of the fragile ecosystem, El Nido Resorts counters that feeding the huge fish acts as a form of protection, keeping the beloved fish within the marine reserve and away from fishermen.

Snorkelling with harmless reef sharks is another activity on offer at the house reef of luxurious Pangulasian Island. As we glide over the coral we are supervised by fully-trained staff members, who ensure it is safe even for the tiniest of children, although they may find the prick of the resident plankton unpleasant. But, with snorkels and fins readily available, less confident water babies can simply stick to the crystalline waters near the beach where they’re almost guaranteed to spot a flurry of vibrant little fish.

Balancing tourism – and kayaks!

And far from being bored during the popular trip to El Nido’s famous lagoons, kids instead get completely involved by taking up the paddles of a kayak and propelling themselves through the narrow passages between the ancient limestone edifices across the smooth emerald green waters which are also a nursery for fish.

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There’s even a familiar tinkling by the entrance to the lagoon where a customised kayak sells ice creams to paddlers in need of refreshment after their canoeing escapades. That’s a new addition to the lagoon, I am told later by a somewhat disapproving observer. So too is the kayak rental flotilla which now has more than 20 kayaks grown from a mere four over the course of just a couple of years. Both are signs of the growing importance of tourism in the area, as more visitors hear about the natural wonders of El Nido.

The delicate balance between capitalising on the area’s natural assets through tourism and protecting it from overdevelopment is one which El Nido Resorts is endeavouring to achieve, by working with local residents and tourism operators, as well as with the government and also its own guests, including the kids.

Upon arrival, we are presented with a large colourful sheet of all the animals that live in the area, from monkeys to turtles, and are asked to mark off every one that we see. Not only is it a fun, educational exercise, but it also helps conservationists monitor population levels.

We are also given a metal water bottle each.

It makes a great souvenir, but is also a way of limiting the amount of plastics that get disposed of on the islands. By refilling it at the various water stations around the resorts, kids can learn the importance of using natural resources wisely and thereby protecting the environment.

Footprints and memories During the months when the weather can be a touch unpredictable, if the rain clouds gather, children can seek shelter while taking part in one of the indoor activities on offer with dedicated kids’ activity centres also available on Miniloc and Lagen Islands. On one such temperamental day, we attempt to learn the intricate art of weaving using coconut palm fronds to make small tropical fish and birds, and even a sun hat. Although our pudgy adult fingers fail to reproduce the rhythmic craftiness of our instructor, the kids get stuck in, and love playing with the finished products.

Babysitting services are also available on Miniloc, Lagen and Pangulasian Islands – something we bear in mind when we consider taking part in some of Bacuit Bay’s more intrepid adventures such as diving.

Upon arrival, we are asked to “leave nothing but footprints and take home nothing but memories,” as part of the briefing given to all new arrivals. The informative speech hit the right nerve, and made us feel part of something bigger than simply a holiday.

But at the end of our stay, as we await the 50-seater ATR aircraft that will zip us back to Manila in just 55 minutes, there’s no doubt that among the beautiful memories we are taking home of rescuing tiny turtles and kayak adventures, there are a few important life lessons too.

> elnidoresorts.com/pangulasian > tourismphilippines.com.au > cebupacificair.com

Previous page: Pangulasian Island Resort From far left: Kayakers Lagoon Cave visit Baby Hawksbill Sea Turtle

SPRING 2015 outandaboutwithkids.com.au

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BIG4 Dubbo Parklands

Yarraby Holiday Park

Splash down in the brand-new water park at BIG4 Dubbo Parklands!

Pack up your kids and hit the road for a family holiday in Echuca-Moama!

Look no further than Dubbo Parklands for great family fun! Set the kids loose in the playground and on the Kangaroo Jumper, then dive into our brand-new water park complete with water slides, tipping buckets and water blasters. Our park is the perfect base for your Dubbo adventure.

Location: Close to town and Just minutes’ walk from

Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo Parklands is the best spot for your next family escape.

Facilities: • Brand new waterpark • Heated Swimming pool • Jumping Pillow • Barbeques & Camp Kitchen • Great BMX track • Recreation Room • Free Wifi • Playground equipment

154 Whylandra Street Dubbo NSW 2830 P: (02) 6884 8633 E: dubboparklands@aspenparks.com.au W: www.aspenparks.com.au

Head straight to Yarraby Holiday Park in Echuca, located right on the mighty Murray River. Let the kids explore our park equipped with a games room, tennis court, bike track and indoor heated pool while you can kick back on the deck of your cabin for some much needed R&R. Location: Located right on the Murray, a short drive from the twin towns of Echuca-Moama.

75 River Avenue Echuca Village VIC 3564 P: (03) 5482 1533 E: yarraby@aspenparks.com.au W: www.aspenparks.com.au

Facilities: • Indoor & Outdoor swimming pool • Barbeques & Camp Kitchen • Games Room • BMX bike track • Free Wifi • Tennis Court • Basketball hoop • Walking Tracks

BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama

Fishing at Lake Conjola

BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama, where great memories are a holiday away.

Relax, Enjoy, Explore at one of 12 Holiday Haven Tourist Parks.

From a dairy farm back in the 19th century, Easts Beach has grown into a family holiday destination that see’s families coming back again and again.

Families can choose from the waterfront retreats and villas to ensuites sites, powered van and tent sites.

Facitlities: • Resort Style Pool • Heated spa • Children’s wading pool • Jumping pillow • Tennis courts • Playground • Breakaway Café • Camp kitchen • Massage Studio

Location: Our 35 acre grassland park is nestled in a valley with mountain backdrops and absolute beach frontage.

Ocean St, (PO Box 10) Kiama NSW 2533 Email: holiday@eastsbeach.com.au www.eastsbeach.com.au Phone: (02) 42 32 2124 Fax: (02) 42 33 1009 FREECALL: 1800 674 444

Holiday Haven Tourist Parks welcome families all year ‘round, whether it is an annual camping pilgrimage a school holidays stay or a weekend away.

Families will enjoy the range of accommodation and experiences on offer at Holiday Haven. From camping to cabins, jumping pillows to junior playgrounds, swimming pools to splash pads, there is an endless supply of activity on offer for your next family holiday. Our parks close proximity to waterways and national parks mean that family adventures such as surfing, fishing, kayaking

Stand Up Paddle boarding, bushwalking, rock hopping, beach combing and canoeing aren’t far away.

Location: Just 2-3 hours’ drive from Sydney or Canberra in the Shoalhaven Region of the NSW South Coast Facilities: • Cabins, Tent & Caravan sites, Powered Ensuite Sites • Kids Playgrounds • Kids under 5 stay free • Mini Golf and Jumping pillow • BBQ and picnic areas • Swimming Pools • Splash Pads

Shoalhaven, South Coast NSW www.holidayhaven.com.au

stay splash save

&

From only

142

$

*

per person, per night, twin share*

Bring the kids for only

40

$

per child, per night

Make your next holiday an unforgettable one at the award-winning Sea World Resort.

Enjoy hours of fun at the amazing aquatic adventure playground, or meet Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles at free appearances every day.

Plus there’s unlimited entry to Sea World during your stay, so your family holiday will be filled with fun and adventure.

Visit SeaWorldResort.com.au

1300 139 677

Terms and Conditions apply.

*

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