Little Explorers package at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
The Little Explorers package at Lancemore’s Lindenderry Hotel in Red Hill really ticks all the boxes.
This isn’t just any family getaway. The whole idea behind Little Explorers is that every moment is designed with kids in mind — so they’re having the time of their lives, which means you can take a breather and enjoy a bit of peace (hello, wine by the fireplace!). Kids can get involved in outdoor games, pizza making sessions, play in the kids room, ride on the Land Rover, play in the pool for hours - oh, and they stay and eat for free!
Are you on the hunt for something a little bit different (and a whole lot of fun) to do with the kids these school holidays? Somewhere that entertains the little ones while giving you the chance to actually sit back, relax and enjoy yourself too? Well, let Mamma tell you about the Little Explorers package at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill — because this one really ticks all the boxes.
First off, this isn’t just any family getaway. The whole idea behind Little Explorers is that every moment is designed with kids in mind — so they’re having the time of their lives, which means you can take a breather and enjoy a bit of peace (hello, wine by the fireplace!)
So, what’s on the cards for the minis? Plenty!
They can:
- Run wild in the kids’ room (yes, a proper play space inside the hotel with toys galore, dress ups and a huge colouring table — a massive win for parents). There’s even a ride-on Land Rover, which is basically every child’s dream come true.
- Settle in for movie nights, complete with all their favourite flicks.
- Play lawn games galore — think croquet, giant Jenga, and anything else to keep those little hands busy outdoors.
- Whip up their own pizzas as part of a pizza making experience (Mamma’s tip - be sure to check with the reception first to see when it’s on).
And honestly, the little touches make it even better. Kids under 12 get to stay and eat for free, which is a total game changer for families. Plus, each child gets a special welcome pack when they arrive — activity booklets, pencils, stickers, and other goodies that will keep them entertained while you sip your coffee in peace.
It’s the kind of holiday where you don’t just survive it — you actually enjoy it. The kids feel like they’re on the ultimate adventure, and you get to soak up the beautiful surroundings of Red Hill with all the charm and comfort Lindenderry is known for.
So, if you’ve been looking for something fun, memorable, and a little bit magical for the next school holidays, Little Explorers at Lindenderry might just become your new favourite family tradition. Trust Mamma — your entire family will be talking about this one for weeks to come!
the nitty gritty
Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill
142 Arthurs Seat Road,
Red Hill
mamma's special mention
Mamma loves Red Hill and its surrounds - so check out our full inspiration here
sensas, south yarra
Put your senses to the test in this interactive, hands on escape room in South Yarra. Sensas will test them all - sight, taste, touch, hearing, and smell - as you work your way through the challenges.
Put your senses to the test in this interactive, hands on escape room in South Yarra. Sensas will test them all - sight, taste, touch, hearing, and smell - as you work your way through the challenges.
Each room is a sensory experience as the element being tested is isolated. From identifying food items by taste only in a pitch black room, to feeling your way through boxes of you-don’t-know-what to find clues, to sniffing your way to success, this is a really fun (and sometimes a little bit scary) experience kids over 8 and adults will really enjoy.Mamma and crew loved the thrill of solving the puzzles and working as a team to beat the clock!
If you’re looking for a fun day out with the fam, or hosting the most epic play date ever, then look no further. Sensas is an adventure to remember!
the nitty gritty
6 Garden Ln, South Yarra VIC 3141
Open
7 days
9am - 10:30pm daily
Bookings are ESSENTIAL
This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you purchase through them. Learn more here
Mamma’s Special Mention
Afterwards, walk a minute down the road to The Commons @ Ormond Collective for some well earned food and drinks.
rush escape rooms, south yarra
We have to admit - we are falling head over heels for a great escape room. Lucky for us, Rush Escape Rooms in South Yarra have a bunch of challenging rooms, including two that are all ages and great for completing with the whole family. Welcome to Cluemunji
We have to admit - we are falling head over heels for a great escape room. Lucky for us, Rush Escape Rooms in South Yarra have a bunch of challenging rooms, including two that are all ages and great for completing with the whole family. At this South Yarra location (the others are in Hawthorn, St Kilda and Chadstone) the kids will love both the Monsters Ink - where you have to find that final part of the door - or the room Mamma road tested - CLUEMUNJI!
Based on the 90s classic movie, step into a jungle themed cavern and work as a team to find the hidden game pieces that will eventually lead to your team’s escape. Mamma loves that there are a combination of puzzles, clues on the walls, hidden challenges, along with locks, keys and audio clues.
So did we make it out? YES! But only just in the knick of time with 30 seconds to spare (and a few calls to base for a helping hand) of our 60 minute allotted session. Hearts will definitely be pumping to beat the clock along with lots of racing around the space and lots and lots of laughter.
the nitty gritty
160 Toorak Road, South Yarra
Open
7 days
10am - 10pm daily
Bookings are ESSENTIAL
Wanna know more?
Click here
Mamma’s Special Mention
Head down the road for a Prahran Market where American Doughnut Kitchen makes some of the most delicious sweet treats
little sherwood petting zoo, drouin
If you're looking for the ultimate family fun, and budget-friendly day trip, head to Little Sherwood Petting Zoo in Drouin South — a place where you can enjoy fur, fun, and yummy food!
It is actual animal lovers heaven! (Especially if you are anything like this Mamma and are unapologetically obsessed with piggies!)
If you're looking for the ultimate family fun - and budget-friendly - day trip, head to Little Sherwood Petting Zoo in Drouin South — a place where you can enjoy fur, fun, and yummy food!
It is actual animal lovers heaven! (Especially if you are anything like this Mamma and are unapologetically obsessed with piggies!)
Here you get to cuddle a baby goat (how adorable are their jumpers!) feed friendly donkeys, sheep, and chickens, and give a gentle pat to the fluffiest bunnies you've ever seen. In a separate pen a group of cheeky piglets trot about with their little piggy tails wagging, while hungry alpacas and llamas eye you up for snacks — and yes, you can feed them too! If you're lucky, you'll even get to feed the gorgeous Highland cows.
But if gorgeous animals aren’t enough, kids will also love the massive playground, play sheds, and tents with blackboards, toys, and enough space to burn off some energy.
And if you’re a bit peckish, there’s a crepe truck. Serving up yummy sweet crepes, hot chips, hot drinks and milkshakes - it’s just what you need to fill up your tummy!
Oh, and keep your eyes peeled — a playful Bengal cat might just slink by for a quick hello!
*Please be very watchful of your children here and make sure kids are sitting down when holding the goats, and are respectful of the animals and never chase them!
the details
315 Fisher Rd, Drouin West 3188
OPEN
Wednesday - Sunday
10am - 4pm
wanna know more? click here.
Mamma’s special mentions: If you are still hungry - head to 2 Waters Cafe in Longwarry!
hampton children’s playhouse, hampton
Hampton Children’s Playhouse is a membership based centre built around the notions of community and open ended play.
Hampton Children’s Playhouse is a membership based centre built around the notions of community and open ended play.
Situated off the bustling main street of Hampton, members can grab a takeaway coffee at one of the many cafes or pick up supplies from the supermarket across the road before making their way to the playhouse.
Located in a repurposed house, the playhouse offers the comforts of home but with more toys… lots and LOTS of toys. There are rooms for imaginary and constructive play as well as a beautiful light filled space tailored specifically to babies. Here you will also find a small library for those wishing to take a little time out.
Towards the back yard there is a fully functional kitchen for the grown ups and a craft space for those creative little hands. There is also a gated art space outside on the deck, complete with paints and easels for those who enjoy a little messy play.
The outside space itself is nicely contained with beautiful murals on the walls and several play structures for the kids to play on. There is also a generous sandpit decked out with spades, buckets and toys. A seperate, gated swing space and shed full of ride on toys round out the space that Mamma’s kids could not get enough of.
Completely run by volunteers, Hampton Children’s Playhouse runs monthly events and a weekly playgroup (which is also open to non members for a fee). With options to join for a term or a full year, the playhouse is a wonderful choice for families of young kids who want to play and connect with others in a safe and enriching environment.
Mamma’s special mentions:
Merrymen Cafe has delicious coffee and food and is just down the road!
azure on panorama, mornington peninsula
Welcome to Azure on Panorama! This stunning 55-acre property is located in Boneo on the Mornington Peninsula. The views here are breathtaking, stretching across the countryside, hills, and the bay.
Welcome to Azure on Panorama! This stunning 55-acre property is located in Boneo on the Mornington Peninsula. The views here are breathtaking, stretching across the countryside, hills, and the bay.
Annemaree and her husband have spent years curating the spectacular gardens, featuring touches of Mediterranean stonework, ponds, lakes, ornamental gardens, and lovely veggie patches. Now, Mamma says they have added a new luxury day spa retreat—and wow, it is amazing.
The private spa house, offers a truly private relaxing retreat. It includes an ice bath, an infrared sauna, and a beautiful magnesium spa that overlooks the entire property. Mamma says it is perfect for unwinding while soaking in the incredible views. Every detail epitomises luxury.
The best part? The Spa Pod is completely private and yours for the entire duration of your booking. It includes a private balcony, garden, toilet, and shower. Robes, water, towels, and slippers are provided—just remember to bring your bathers.
As part of the spa experience, you’ll have exclusive access to tour the gardens. This is a privilege reserved just for spa guests. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and provided with a map for a self-guided garden tour. You can choose from several walks, depending on how much time you have and how much of the gardens you’d like to explore. If you’d like to see everything, we recommend setting aside at least two hours.
All walks finish back at the Pavilion, where you’ll be whisked away by VIP golf buggy to your private Magnesium Hot Pool Spa Pod.
One of the highlights for Mamma in the garden tour is the paddock of rescue animals, including Sylvie the pig, friendly chickens, ducks, ponies, and Honey the alpaca with her adorable family. You can also pay extra for a VIP Tour of the Gardens which includes being personally introduced to the animals in the nursery paddock, and access to the Top Lookout. (+ $55 per person)
These animals are clearly the heart of Azure, reflecting Annemaree’s passion for creating a peaceful, loving sanctuary for both people and animals.
the nitty gritty
Azure on Panorama
Boneo. Mornington Peninsula
Victoria
Spa Pod sessions run for 1.5 hours and are available at 11:45 am or 2:00 pm on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each pod can accommodate 2 to 5 people.
18+ only, so bring a mate/s (or a date!)
*we were lucky enough to be hosted by Azure Panorama on this occasion, our review is based on our own experience
marina magic getaways, patterson lakes
It is easy to see why this little hidden oasis has been named, Marina Magical Getaways in Patterson Lakes! Here is your chance to immerse yourself in the ultimate relaxing getaway - in the middle of the suburbs!
There is nothing this Mamma finds more relaxing than being by the water. There is something about gentle ripples, the cool breeze and the reflections of the sky that just brings an instant calm. It really is quite magical.
So it is easy to see why this little hidden oasis has been named, Marina Magic Getaways! This is the place to immerse yourself in the ultimate relaxing getaway - in the middle of the suburbs!
Hidden away in the marina of Patterson Lakes lies this 2 bedroom apartment, which is literally ON the water! As you make your way down the boardwalk, you will see the calm, duck-filled water underneath you. Climb up one flight of stairs and you have arrived at your luxury little haven for the night. When you step out onto the balcony, you will instantly forget that you are in the suburbs and feel like you have arrived at a tropical resort!
Mamma opted to have a girls weekend of relaxation. The apartment is conveniently located just next door to a pub, down the road from the beach and cafes, and right behind a great little lake-side walking track. Everything required for the perfect girls weekend! You could also choose to really indulge with an add-on package like an in house massage or personal chef! And if you are a fan of water sports, you can also add on kayak hire to explore the river and canals.
Mamma’s little ones arrived for the drop off - and had a quick play of the foosball table and a sit on the balcony and asked if the next family holiday could be here. So clearly it is very appealing to kids, too!
The hosts are just lovely, and go out their way to make sure you have the best stay. It really is such a wonderful location and luxurious apartment. Wake up to watch the sunrise and sip your coffee on the deck, watching the boats sail past you and birds fly above you. You will truly feel like you have gone on a holiday when you get home! It’s perfect for a girls weekend, but would also be a lovely romantic getaway or as a family staycation as well.
the nitty gritty
Waterfront Retreat, Patterson Lakes
(full address supplied on booking)
Sleeps 6 adults max
2 Bedrooms
Full kitchen
wanna know more?
click here
*Mamma was kindly hosted
Mamma's special mention:
If you are staying with the kids - check out the awesome Carrum Beach Bar
mornington tourist railway, moorooduc
Step back in time and jump on board your booth carriage of the Mornington Heritage Tourist Railway. Open up the windows and let the fresh peninsula air refresh your face as you watch the scenery zoom past.
All aboard for some train fun!
This is SUCH a fun day out. Step back in time and jump on board your booth carriage, on the Mornington Tourist Railway! Open up the windows and let the peninsula air refresh your face as you watch the scenery zoom past.
Listen out for the toot and don’t forget to wave to the people you pass by.
The journey from Moorooduc station to Mornington is about 15 minutes - or 30 minutes return. The perfect amount of time to keep the little ones happy.
When you disembark from the train at the halfway mark, you can watch the captain (in full uniform) hop off and direct the carriage back into position, ready for the journey home.
Once back to Moorooduc you have the chance to board the drivers cabin and have a chat to the driver.
There are a few days a year where the train offers themed days - like Santa, Easter Bunny, Superheroes, Teddy Bear Picnic etc.
Mamma’s crew jumped on a Santa special, and it’s even more magical! Santa and his elf helper board the train ringing his jolly bell; and he makes his way into each carriage - even taking a seat, having a chat and handing out a bag of lollies!
This is a day out that the kids will remember, forever!
the nitty gritty
OPEN
Every Sunday 4 sessions
10.30am, 12pm, 1.45pm, 3pm
(More trains operate during school holidays)
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention:
Right next to the station is the cute little Mt Eliza Regional Park Playground.
beaumaris children's playhouse, beaumaris
Beaumaris Children’s Playhouse is a home away from home… but with more toys!
Beaumaris Children’s Playhouse is a home away from home… but with more toys!
The playhouse is a membership based play space that facilitates and encourages all types of play. For over 40 years, Beaumaris Children’s Playhouse has been volunteer run and provides a safe, stimulating and fun environment for families of preschool aged children to connect with other local families.
Inside, you will find an imaginative play zone complete with kitchen, supermarket, doctor’s office and dress ups. For those who need a little down time, the small library is the perfect spot to take a moment and read a book together. Meanwhile, the creatives will get a kick out of the gated art room complete with smocks, paint and craft supplies.
The train and farm tables were a big hit with Mamma’s 2 year old car enthusiast who was only drawn away by the sight of the outdoor play area.
The outside space is generous - on one side you will find a sandpit, fenced off swing area and undercover play structure. On the other side is a beautiful fully furnished cubby house, slide and climbing wall.
However, the real star of the show for Mamma’s kids was the shed full of ride on toys with mini track designed for little hoons to race around.
During the year, the playhouse also organises multiple incursions and experiences for children to enjoy, including child entertainers, music and art classes.
the nitty gritty
24 Grandview Avenue, Beaumaris 3193
OPEN
Monday - Saturday
9am - 6pm
wanna know more? click here.
Mamma's special mention
When those tummies start to rumble, head over to Saska Cafe for a feed.
best friend holiday retreat, tarra valley
Best Friend Holiday Retreat in Tarra Valley is pure heaven for dogs, and it’s pretty spectacular for humans, too!
Perched picturesquely in a valley between majestic fern trees and a cascading river with a small waterfall; you will find this absolutely amazing camping ground for all family members - especially the furry kind!
Best Friend Holiday Retreat in Tarra Valley is pure heaven for dogs, and it’s pretty spectacular for humans, too! With a range of different accommodation styles from unpowered tent sites through to deluxe cabins - all with individual fencing to keep your best friend safe and secure. Plus - all doggos are allowed inside and on furniture - infact, they MUST sleep indoors!
On site you will also find 6 HUGE fully fenced off leash play areas, loaded up with balls and ball projectors - plus one that even has giant gym balls to roll down the hills (Mamma’s not sure if the kids love this more than the doggo!).
Mamma is more a cabin kind of camper - and these cabins have everything you need - even the budget ones! Full kitchen, air con, bathroom and BBQ covered deck with spectacular views!
Right next to the site you will find a path down to the creek and waterfall. Here you can fish and even swim (if you are braver than Mamma!).
There’s also a little shop onsite to buy the essentials - and doggy treats - and the staff are so lovely and helpful.
This really is the perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the absolute serenity of the Tarra Valley!
the nitty gritty
1720 Tarra Valley Rd, Tarra Valley 3971
OPEN
Cabins available all year round, camping grounds closed between June - September
wanna know more? click here.
Mamma's special mention
Head down the road to the Tarra Bulga National Park - which hosts one of the most beautiful cool temperate rainforests in Victoria
carnegie memorial swimming pool, carnegie
Mammas! Drop what you’re doing, grab the kids, pop on the togs and head straight down to Carnegie Memorial Swimming Pool
Mammas! Drop what you’re doing, grab the kids, pop on the togs and head straight down to Carnegie Memorial Swimming Pool (CMSP).
The newly redeveloped community aquatic centre has been designed to welcome the whole family with accessibility and sustainability in mind. Honouring the design of the original building which opened over 50 years ago, CMSP brings together the nostalgia of old school community pools with the functionality of contemporary design and facilities.
Pick a spot on the grassy hill that overlooks the main swimming pool while the kids get ready to head straight to the splash pad - a fully shaded, colourful water play area with great accessibility and a variety of engaging structures for a wide range of ages.
From the corridor of sprinkler archways to the large orange dredge bucket that slowly fills over time only to spill in a massive “SPLASH!” on the squealing kids below. Mamma’s 2 year old had a wild time weaving in and out of the numerous dome shaped sprinklers dotted around the splash pad at varying heights.
Next to the splash pad (and froggy slide!) is the main pool with lanes divided into aqua play zones as well as slow, medium and fast swimming lanes. There is a ramp that runs half way down one side of the pool, for those who benefit from a gentle decline into the water. And although it is an outdoor pool, it is partially covered by shade cloth if you prefer to avoid direct sun.
But that’s not all folks! There is also a separate dive pool, indoor learn to swim pool and indoor wellness zone which includes a spa, sauna, steam room and warm water pool.
With multiple BBQs located onsite and a kiosk offering hot and cold food/drinks, there is absolutely no reason to leave before closing time!
the nitty gritty
Koornang Park, Moira Avenue, Carnegie 3163
OPEN
The facility is open 7 days with parts of the centre opening at different times during peak (Nov - March) and off-peak (Apr - Oct) seasons.
Monday - Thursday
6am - 9pm
Friday
6am - 8pm
Saturday
7am - 7pm
Sunday
8am - 7pm
casual admission and memberships available. Children under 3 are free of charge.
wanna know more? click here.
Mamma's special mention
Head to Del Mar just down the road for some food and a play.
springvale live steamers, springvale south
If trains are your child’s obsession of choice then this Mamma has some great news for all southsiders. Located within the natural bush setting of Springvale South’s Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, the Springvale Live Steamers offer miniature train rides for the young and young at heart.
ALL ABOARD!! If trains are your child’s obsession of choice then this Mamma has some great news for all southsiders. Located within the natural bush setting of Springvale South’s Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, the Springvale Live Steamers offer miniature train rides for the young and young at heart.
Open for public run days on the third Sunday of the month, and run completely by volunteer miniature train enthusiasts, a gold coin donation is all that is needed to hop aboard the Springvale Express!
Mamma’s two little ones patiently waited in line as they got to watch other families zip around the 500m track dotted with small model animals to spot along the way.
Little miss 5 could barely contain her excitement as she rapidly approached the front of the queue. There are often 5-7 electric, diesel and steam locomotives running on any given public day, so the wait is never that long.
The 3 minute round trip journey allows passengers to feel the wind through their hair whilst enjoying the surrounding bushland. If you’re lucky, the kids might even get to sound the train whistle before disembarking.
Mammas hot tip - to avoid missing your train, be sure to wear closed toe shoes and leave the loose and flowing clothes at home.
the nitty gritty
Alex Nelson Reserve, Harold Road Springvale South, 3172
OPEN
Third Sunday of the month (excluding December and January)
11am - 3pm
toilets - picnic tables - playground - BBQ facilities - walking trails - off street parking
Mamma's special mention
After the kids have finished riding that rail, why not head to Toppings & Tea for some do-it-yourself bubble tea
raymond island, gippsland lakes
Did you know that in the beautiful lakeside Gippsland town of Paynesville, you can catch a free ferry to a tiny island full of koalas, kangaroos and wombats?
Did you know that in the beautiful lakeside Gippsland town of Paynesville, you can catch a free ferry to a tiny island full of koalas, kangaroos and wombats?
Raymond Island is a nature lovers paradise. This Mamma would love to live in one of the few hundred houses scattered across the island! There are no shops here and the ferry across is less than 5 minutes.
Walk a 1.2km koala trail, leading through a nature reserve and around the local streets. You are pretty much guaranteed to see a koala here, just follow the signs and make sure you look up - there’s sure to be a fury local resident lazing languidly in a tree above!
There are also hundreds of kangaroos who are not shy, sunbaking in the front yards in streets, or in the bushy nature reserve. With wombats, echidnas and birds residing in the area, too.
You can bring your bike or hire one, and in some months you can also jump on a 4 seater surrey bike. Bring your fishing rods and a picnic, and enjoy the playground area. Dogs on leads are welcome here as well.
You will love the serenity!
the nitty gritty
Ramond Island, Gippsland Lakes, 3880
OPEN
Ferry from Paynesville runs roughly every 20 minutes 7 days a week
Free for walk on/bike passengers
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention: Keep the family fun going and head to Adventure World in Lucknow
drop bear escape rooms, pakenham
Here’s a great place to play as a team with the family as your work your way out of a lolly shop!
Here’s a great place to play as a team with the family as you work your way out of a lolly shop!
The mission here at Pop’s Lolly shop - one of the three escape room experiences at Drop Bear Escape Rooms in Pakenham, is to uncover the secrets that will open the door before the Drop Bear agents find you and kidnap you like they did with Pop!
This is a family-room experience, suitable for kids aged 6+ (with an adult) or beginners with little Escape Room knoweldge.
Your aim is to complete the mission in one hour, and includes lots of riddles and even a very fun laser beam challenge!
Mamma’s crew loved this room and all its hidden secrets! A great way to spend some time together with a few laughs - even the almost-teen managed to smile the whole time!
the nitty gritty
Factory 18/18 Racecourse Rd, Pakenham 3810
OPEN
Monday/Tuesday/Thursday/Friday
11am - 8.30pm
Saturday 11am - 9pm
Kids under 12 require an adult
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention: Keep the fun going and head around the corner to Cardinia Community Playground Pakenham
national vietnam veterans museum, phillip island
If you haven’t been before, you really should add it to your list - and bring the family! This interactive war museum is home to incredible war memorabilia from all around the world, and is just brimming with Australian history.
If you have been to Phillip Island, no doubt you have driven past the National Vietnam Veterans Museum, which is tucked away to the side on the main road.
If you haven’t been before, you really should add it to your list - and bring the family! This interactive war museum is home to incredible war memorabilia from all around the world, and is just brimming with Australian history.
This is a great opportunity for the kids to learn about the sacrifices of our Veterans, and see up close the equipment, uniforms and aircrafts used in the Vietnam War.
You can watch videos showing interviews with Veterans, footage of soldiers and see photographs, maps and food packaging amongst all sorts of memorabillia. You can climb onboard a helicopter, watch a light show and take a walk in the refelective garden.
Mamma’s crew love learning about Australian History and found this to be a very informative and evocative experience.
the nitty gritty
25 Veterans Drive,
Newhaven,
Phillip Island
OPEN
7 days a week
10am - 5pm
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention: There is SO MUCH to do in Phillip Island - here are our MUST DO’s!
moorabbin air museum, moorabbin
The Australian National Aviation Museum (say that three times quickly) is a true surprise and delight. Located within the Moorabbin Airport district the planes are both on the ground and constantly flying overhead
The Moorabbin Air Museum is such a hidden treasure. Located within the Moorabbin Airport district, the planes are both on the ground and constantly flying overhead.
There are the most incredible planes on display, including some super rare and unique aircraft, and the best bit - you can sit in most of them, move the gears, steer the wheel and push ALL of the buttons!
The kids will LOVE sitting in the actual cockpits of some of these jets, helicopters and commercial airliners - ESPECIALLY the Police helicopter!
There is heaps to learn about the military history of these machines, as well as Australian aviation history. Mamma’s crews highlight was the flight simulator - where you get to take control of the plane and try to land it via the virtual simulation screen!
There’s an undercover/indoor section home to the rare war planes and memorabilia, and the outdoor area showcasing old commercial planes, police and navy helicopters and LOTS more - the kids will be in awe.
the nitty gritty
12 First St, Moorabbin Airport, Moorabbin
OPEN
Monday to Friday
10am - 4pm
Saturday to Sunday
10am - 5pm
Closed: Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day. ANZAC Day the Museum Opens at 1pm
PRICE
Adult $10
Child $5 (children under 5 free)
Family $20
Concession / Pensioner $7
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention: For more plane watching action - and for a bite to eat and a coffee - head to The Flight Deck Bar and Grill that is just around the corner from the museum. From here, you can see the airport and sit outside in a fully fenced and has a great view of the runway.
south gippsland tank adventures, wonyip
Perched high up on a hill in the Strzelecki Ranges, amidst a beautiful tree rainforest and the most spectacular views, you will find South Gippsland Tank Adventures.
Now here is an experience that is incredibly unique - and incredibly awesome! Mister almost 12 has labelled it as ‘the best day ever’ and something he will never forget - and this Mamma will never forget the awe and smile on his face as the Tank roared into action!
Perched high up on a hill in the Strzelecki Ranges, amidst a beautiful rainforest and the most spectacular views, you will find South Gippsland Tank Adventures.
Your experience will begin in the Museum, where your tour guide will take you through a collection of war paraphernalia including clothing, helmets, weapons, medals, radios and lots more. A highlight here for Mamma’s littlies was holding a rocket launcher and seeing in person all of the Army clothing and weapons that they’ve read about.
Next you will move into the warehouse where you get a hands on tour of their amoured vechicles - many tanks that you can climb on, turn turrets, raise guns and ask all the questions you can think of!
Then it’s time to chuck on your camo clothes, armoured helmets and flak jackets, and climb into your tank! You will then journey along a bumpy dirt track, traversing uphill and down, feeling like a rollercoaster at times! You can stand up and peer over the edge, or sit on the bench seat and one person can stand upfront in the gunner seat.
The ride goes for around 20 minutes and it is exhillerating!
This is such a wonderful - and also educational - experience, that Mamma’s crew will never forget!
the nitty gritty
2349 Woorarra Rd, Wonyip VIC
Multiple Options for Tank adventures including Family Adventure, Group adventure, Individual.
Wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention: Make a day of it and head to the STUNNING Agnes Falls about 30 minutes away
enchanted adventure, arthurs seat
This is one jam-packed adventure garden! The fun just keeps on coming.
This is one jam-packed adventure garden! The fun just keeps on coming.
Mamma’s crew can't decide which thrilling adventure was the highlight! Torn between the epic tube slide, the tree surfing and the Sky Scramble - a giant ball pit suspended in a net in the treetops - it was all AMAZING!
You can opt to include the Grand Tree Surfing/Nippers Tree Surfing or simply get a general admission ticket. The tree-climbing is available for kids as young as 4 if they dare - with a separate ‘Nippers” area.
Both of these experiences are high amongst the trees, where they can test their strength and skills climbing up nets, through tunnels, along bridges and zip-lining down to the ground.
One of the newest additions is the Sky Scramble - an awesome aerial playground - set high up in the sky you can walk on wobbly bridges, climb through tunnels, bounce in the giant ball pit and disembark down huge slides! This is for kids under 135cm only. But older kids can still enjoy walking in the Treetop canopy along a wobbly bridge!
There’s also a Pirate ship kids can jump onboard - go under the deck and pretend to steer!
Then, of course, there's the awesomely fast and twisty tube-slides. There are 6 straight slides, 1 twisty slide and the kids slide. Watch out, when they say fast - they mean it! So. Much. Fun.
There are 5 different mazes spread throughout the gardens. All challenging and great fun.
You can refresh in the cafe with a cool drink - or a delicious hot chocolate and hot chips for those cooler days. Yum.
There is SO much to do here, be prepared to stay and play the day away!
the nitty gritty
Opening hours are 9am to 5pm every day of the year except closed Christmas Day.
wanna know more?
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Mamma's Special Mention
Keep the good times rolling and check out the spectacular view at The Eagle Skylift
locked in escape rooms, mornington
Get ready for the perfect amount of adrenalin pumping, brain stimulating, challenging fun!
Get ready for the perfect amount of adrenalin pumping, brain stimulating, challenging fun!
Locked in Escape Rooms in Mornington are a must if you’re looking for a fun family outing. It’s a great opportunity to work together and have a few laughs along the way!
Mamma’s crew attempted the Wizard’s Lair room - with a difficulty level of 3 and recommended for first timers and families.
In this room, you are apprentice wizards/witches who have been chained to the wall of an evil wizard’s lair and you have 60 minutes to escape before he returns and transforms you into a toad!
Mamma wont give anything away, but you will work your way through all sorts of riddles and puzzles and will need your thinking caps (or witches hats) on! The terrific staff play their role superbly and remain in character throughout. You will need to put your phones in a locker, so no cheating!
Kids under 12 need to be accompanied by an adult and is advised for ages 7+. Miss 9 did get a little intimidated by the chains and darkness at the very start - but warmed to it and loved it in the end. There are also rooms specifically for kids 7 - 12 here as well!
Mamma’s crew cannot wait to go back and try a harder room next time! It really is a fantastic idea for some family fun!
the nitty gritty
2/2A Carbine Way
Mornington, VIC
Open
Wed & Sun
10:30am–4:30pm
Thu, Fri, & Sat
10:30am–8:30pm
Wanna know more?
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Mamma’s Special Mention
Head down the road for a meal at Loosie’s Diner after you escape!
maru koala & animal park, grantville
You may have driven past the giant koala sign or seen the big pirate ship on your way to Phillip Island, but Maru Koala & Animal Park in Grantville is a destination in itself!
You may have driven past the koala sign on your way to Phillip Island, but Maru Koala & Animal Park in Grantville is a destination in itself!
Mamma’s crew are BIG animal fans, and this park has ALL the favourites covered! It is the perfect place to experience Australian wildlife close up, without the huge crowds and long walks that the bigger zoos encompass.
Mamma’s crew were lucky to partake in the Koala Feeding and the Quokka experience. Wow. What a privilege this is, to be within their habitat and hand feed them their brekky and veggies! You can see their little faces light up as they eagerly move closer to you to munch on their leaves. They are such beautiful animals and being this close to them makes you see how each of their personalities really shine. These koala feeding experiences are held at 9am - before the centre opens so it is a quiet and very calming experience. The Quokka experiences are at 3.15 towards the end of the day for their afternoon snacks!
Once the koalas have eaten and resumed their sleep - explore the rest of the park and watch the cheeky wombats dig their holes, hand-feed the little wallabies and majestic kangaroos, enter Fang Island and check out the crocodile and snakes, chat to Charlie the cockatoo, walk with the emus and hang out with dingoes.
There are also other animal interaction experiences available with the Dingoes, Reptiles, Gliders and Cassowary’s. There are additional fees for these experiences, but there are also free daily talks you can listen to about each animal happening at different times throughout the day. The rangers and staff here are INCREDIBLE, full of knowledge and passion for these gorgeous creatures.
When you have worked up an appetite, head indoors to the bistro and enjoy some devonshire tea - or a parma if that’s more your style! The kids will love the ice-cream bar (and the gift shop!).
And it that’s not enough fun - included in your entry price is Pete’s Mini Golf - a Pirate themed course out the front!
It’s a really lovely day out and a great chance to meet and learn about our beautiful native animals. Add it to your list!!
the nitty gritty
1650 Bass Hwy, Grantville, 3984
Open
7 days
9.30am - 5.30pm
Pete’s Mini Golf is included in entry fee.
Animal experiences are additional cost to entry fee.
Wanna know more?
Click here
Mamma’s Special Mention
Make a day of it and head into Phillip Island - check out our MUST DO’S while you are there!
