Summer fun for families

If you’d like some inspiration for things to do with children this summer, we’ve created a list to help you out.

Altina Wildlife Park

Number one on the list this summer is a horse-drawn cart tour at Altina Wildlife Park, near Darlington Point. Upon arrival you can wander around the small animal exhibits and see the meerkats, marmosets, and servals. Then, it back and relax with the family in the horse-drawn cart for a two-hour personalised tour to see the larger animals. Your friendly and knowledgeable guide will be able to answer any questions you may have and you’ll be able to get up close with quite a few. For those with older children (12 years+), check out their “Behind the Scenes’ tours allowing you personalised animal interaction with your own tour guide.

Lake Talbot Water Park

On hot summer days, head to the Lake Talbot Water Park in Narrandera to keep the children cool. Set-up a spot on the terraced lawns in the shade of the trees. Then let the family choose what water activity they’ll head for first – slip down one of the slides or splash into one of the four pools. Don’t forget to check out their Facebook page for scheduled events throughout Summer!!

Koala spotting

While you’re in Narrandera, koala spotting in the Narrandera Flora and Fauna Reserve is another great activity. Being able to spot Australian fauna in their natural habitat is an absolute thrill, and will keep the kids entertained for some time….especially if you make it a game to see how many they can spot. Top tip – before you head into the Reserve, pop into the Narrandera Visitor Information Centre to find out where the latest koala sightings are.

Leeton Roxy Theatre

Check out the Leeton Roxy Theatre to watch a kids flick in air-conditioned comfort. Afterwards, explore Leeton’s newest cultural experience – the free Leeton Museum and Gallery.

Ned Kelly Raid Trail

Have a ‘bushranger day’ in Jerilderie, exploring the 16 sites of when the Kelly Gang held up the town in 1879. Afterwards, the family can take advantage of the free access at the Jerilderie Swimming Pool or sample an ice-cream from the Sticky Fingers Candy Shop.

Galore Hill

If the children enjoyed their bushranger day in Jerilderie, continue the theme on to Galore Hill, north of Lockhart. Here, you can explore Morgan’s Caves – used by the infamous bushranger, Daniel 'Mad Dog' Morgan, climb the viewing tower or enjoy a BBQ or picnic. The younger ones can also check out the playground at the summit.

Camping

For those who are wanting some family time at the Murrumbidgee River, there are lots of beaches to unwind for the night or the weekend. Bunyip Hole, north of Darlington Point in the Willbriggie Regional Park, offers easy access, fishing and toilets. While Middle Beach, in the Murrumbidgee Valley National Park near Leeton, is an ideal place to go canoeing or swimming. Rocky Waterholes, east of Narrandera, offers calmer waters and a place to launch a boat.

Willbriggies Regional Park Family caravan and bikes 1.jpg

If you'd like some more hints and tips on what to do this summer with children, ask the friendly staff at the Visitor Information Centres in Jerilderie, Leeton, Lockhart, and Narrandera.