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 Easter Bunny, Superheroes, Teddy Bear Picnic etc.
This is a day out that the kids will remember!
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.
melbourne's christmas wonderland, caulfield
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is kicking off the festive season with a bang. From now through to Christmas Eve, you’ll find billowing circus tents taking over Caulfield Racecourse.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! And Melbourne’s Christmas Wonderland is kicking off the festive season with a bang. From now through to Christmas Eve, you’ll find billowing circus tents taking over Caulfield Racecourse.
Make your way under the big top and enter an interactive wonderland of Yuletide magic. For 3 hours, you’ll be able to experience all the festive joy Christmas has to offer under one roof.
Make your way to Mrs Claus’ bakery and decorate your very own Christmas cookie. Or head to Rudolph’s Barnyard to see the animatronic reindeer - don’t forget to take home a bag of magical reindeer food to leave out on Christmas Eve! If you’ve been nice this year, write and post a letter to Santa and if you like, meet the big guy himself (for an additional charge).
There are plenty of crafts on offer as well - from decorating reindeer antlers to constructing a foam gingerbread house, and bauble decorating there are so many things to keep those little kiddy fingers busy.
There are activities aplenty, from the numerous jumping castles, humongous ball pit, roller skating, as well as rides and carnival games (extra charge here too) .
Don’t forget to catch the Wonderland Circus show before you leave! You’ll enjoy musical performances by Mrs Claus and her dancing elves and then be on the edge of your seat while Circus Royale performers dazzle with nail biting stunts and mind bending acts (Mamma’s tip - if your little ones are noise sensitive, be sure to pack some ear muffs).
What a fabulous way to kick start the Christmas cheer!
the nitty gritty
Caulfield Racecourse, Caulfield 3145
November 29 - December 24
(1-3 sessions daily)
Onsite parking available from $6
wanna know more? click here
Mamma's special mention:
For more Christmas inspo in the south - head here!
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 Wilkie Reserve, 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
mama and me camp, mornington peninsula
Hand on heart, this experience is THE best thing this Mamma has EVER done with Master 12.
Hand on heart, this experience is THE best thing this Mamma has EVER done with Master 12.
It’s not often - if at all - that you get to totally immerse yourself in uninterrupted one-on-one time with your child. A time where you can be fully present and not have to worry about anything other than connection. Getting to know your child all over again, but more importantly - your child getting to know you as a person, not just as a nagging mum!
How often are we mums the ones who miss out on the fun because we are too busy organising everyone else, being behind the camera, watching from the sidelines?
The Mama and Me camps hosted by Mindful Mamas, are the perfect opportunity to just press pause on everything else and focus on your child, yourself and your connection. All of your meals are cooked for you - you don’t even have to do the washing up! There’s no washing to fold, places to drive to, nowhere to be - except present.
On this particular camp, at Camp Manyung in Mt Eliza, it was all about action! Mamma and crew put fear aside and partook in Tree Rolling, Archery, Zip Line, Flying fox and even the GIANT SWING! Now this took a LOT of courage from everyone, but the rewards of seeing how proud all the kids were of their mamas - their looks of awe and shouts of encouragement - there’s nothing like it! It’s mums chance to be the cool, fun parent!
There’s time for reflection with ‘circle time’ where mums and sons can speak about their favourite part of the day and what they want to take away from the experience - and it’s so interesting to hear from the kids perspective.
These camps also run with mamas and daughters - and there is even a MAMA’S ONLY camp happening next year!
Again, Mamma cannot recommend this experience enough - if it’s something you have been thinking about, DO IT! You won’t regret it!!
the nitty gritty
Activities are based on kids aged 5 - 13.
The camp Mamma attended was held at Camp Manyung in Mt Eliza - locations vary
There are payment plans that start early so you can budget for the camp with plenty of time
Options:
Mama and Son Camp
Mama and Daughter Camp
Mama Camp
Mamma's special mention
Why not make a it a full treat weekend and head to the wonderful Peninsula Hot Springs as well?
boneo discovery park, fingal
This place has all the magic ingredients for a perfect family day out!
This is one of Mamma's all time happy places. There is just so much to do, and everywhere you look there is so much natural beauty!
Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, taking in the beautiful indigenous flora and fauna - perhaps you will be lucky enough to spot some frogs and water birds along your way. One thing you will be guaranteed to see are the giant animal-lanterns spread throughout the wetlands.
Follow the path to lead you to the games area. Here you can play with giant games like chess, jenga and connect four. Get lost in two mazes -one hedge and one wooden; climb up the lookout to get a wonderful birds-eye view. And take a ride on Mamma's absolute favourite - an exquisite old-style carousel! The detail on this beauty is extraordinary.
Follow the path back to the great little licensed cafe serving delicious food; complete with a pool table, chalk-table, board games and plenty of colouring in tools! And on school holidays they have additional activities for the kids like arts and crafts, and guided workshops!
Walk down to the lake's edge and look for frogs, or relax on one of the lounges on the deck. Cross over the lake for the adventure zone. Here you will be able to test your skills on the climbing wall, bungy trampolines or explore King Lake on the pedal boats. (Extra cost for these).
There is also a high ropes course, with a zip liner! For the littler ones there is a tadpole harness climb.
And of course, the fabulous mini-golf. Perfect for all ages as the littler ones can tee-off from the red flags, while adults and older kids start from the blue flag. On the other side of the fence you can watch lambs frolic in their paddock, making for gorgeous scenery everywhere you look.
This place has all the magic ingredients for a perfect family day out!
Mamma's special mention
Why not make a day of it and head to the wonderful Peninsula Hot Springs as well?
dino bounce inflatable fun park, dandenong
Home to largest dino-themed obstacle course in Australia, you’ll bounce and jump over the 5000 square foot inflatable course - with over 25 twist and turns!
Here is an obstacle course that will give your cheekbones as much as a workout as your leg bones - you’ll laugh as much as you fall over the inflatable bumps, jumps and slides here at the brand new Dino Bounce Inflatable Park in Dandenong.
Home to the largest dino-themed obstacle course in Australia, you’ll bounce and jump over the 5000 square foot inflatable course - with over 25 twist and turns!
Mamma’s crew can’t get enough of the big jump down into the giant pillow, the steep slides, rock climbing wall and racing each other through the mazes and obstacle course. All the bouncing, jumping, climbing and sliding will leave them rosy cheeked with huge smiles!
Then you can test your skills at the little dino-themed mini golf course and Dino blaster nerf gun battles!
Sessions are 50 minutes or you can book a double.
Mamma’s crew say it’s the “best day ever” and will definitely sleep well!
the nitty gritty
29 Brindley Street, Dandenong 3175
OPEN
Thursday - Sunday during school holidays
10am - 2pm
School Term Saturday/Sunday
10am - 2pm
Note - All participants must purchase a pair of Inflatable Fun Park grip socks for $5.00, available to purchase on site, on arrival. Also note, all spectators must purchase a pass on arrival, for $4.00.
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention:
All that energy works up an appetite! Head to Bojak Brewery to refuel!
ashcombe maze and lavender gardens, shoreham
Everywhere you look the view here is breathtaking, with a playground and an onsite cafe - it’s the perfect way to spend the day!
Ashcombe Maze and Lavender Gardens in Shoreham, is absolutely stunning!
Everywhere you look the view is breathtaking in any season. Autumn is a great time to visit with the gorgeous multi-coloured leaves scattered all over the ground. Perfect for making leaf-angels!
There’s a brand new playground showcasing wooden cubby houses, climbing walls, tunnels, slides and even a sandpit! Alongside jumbo garden games and a gorgeous little fairy garden (made by Steph the Fairy Maker).
There are 3 different mazes to challenge yourself with; hedge, rose, and lavender. Not to mention the amazing gardens with features like; lily ponds, water fountains, a lake and the most amazing trees.
There’s also a fairy garden to explore with some wooden cuts out - inviting the perfect selfie opportunity.
The best bit - upon entry, grab your clipboard with names of 9 fairies and 9 gnomes that are hidden amongst the gardens and set out on a challenge to find them all! Not an easy feat, as they are very well hidden! Once complete, take your entry back to reception to claim a prize!
There’s a cafe onsite - or bring your own picnic - it is a perfect way to spend the day!
the nitty gritty
15 Red Hill -Shoreham Rd, Shoreham
OPEN
9am - 5pm
7 days
Picnics allowed
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention:
Treat yourself and head down the road to the delicious Mornington Peninsula Chocolaterie, or checkout the stunning Flinders Blowhole.
aflw 2024 season with melbourne football club
Like almost all of Melbourne, Mamma and the crew love a footy match. The excitement of the game, the passion from the supporters and the thrill of seeing the skills on the field. All is on offer when heading to an AFLW match at Casey Fields to watch the mighty Melbourne Football Club.
Like almost all of Melbourne, Mamma and the crew love a footy match. The excitement of the game, the passion from the supporters and the thrill of seeing the skills on the field. All is on offer when heading to an AFLW match at Casey Fields to watch the mighty Melbourne Football Club.
The Dees have made this amazing suburban facility their home and Mamma feels it is the best way to introduce the family to this great game - especially when adult tickets are $15 and kids under 18 are FREE!
The venue is easy for parking, you can bring your own chairs and snacks with plenty of space to make yourself at home on the embankments. There is some good elevation around the field or you can choose to get up REAL close to the action on the side line.
Kids a little restless? Go for a lap around the ground and see the play from all angles, OR find a patch of grass for a mini kick-to-kick. Kids need a feed? See one of the many food trucks parked around (plus slushies and coffee!).
Kids need some supporter gear? There’s a merch stand PLUS a tent handing out flags AND a truck with some free footys. Kids need something else? Head to the Kid Zone! There are games, colouring in, face painting and some cool loungers to chill out for a bit.
There really is a lot for the families to get out of a match. Being so close to the action allows you to hear the thump of the footy as it hits the boot, see the girls take to the sky for a hanger and really be a part of the action. After the match, the kids will hang over the side and may even grab one of those special high fives that will inspire the next wave of footy stars.
Mamma’s extra special favourite bit … Kick-to-kick on the field after the match. Just like the old days!
the nitty gritty
WHEN
Melbourne play at Casey Fields
Week 3: Sunday September 15 v Kangaroos
Week 8: Saturday October 19 v Tigers
Melbourne play at IKON Park
Week 6: Thursday October 3 v Giants
Week 10: TBC v Magpies
Club memberships available HERE
wanna know more and book tickets?
click here
Casey Fields, 160 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East
Mamma's special mention: Facilities at Casey Fields are awesome, including this playground!
Presented in partnership with Melbourne Football Club
To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.
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
only mine chocolate tours, cranbourne west
Every second Saturday, the lovely chocolatiers at Only Mine in Cranbourne, open up their factory for tours and tastings!
Here’s one for the chocolate lovers!
Every second Saturday, the lovely chocolatiers at Only Mine in Cranbourne, open up their factory for tours and tastings!
You can embark on a tour for your tastebuds as you learn some very interesting facts about how chocolate is made (did you know it takes 8 years to grow a cacao tree!), and also what to look for in the ingredients list to know you are buying the best quality.
These tours run for about 20 minutes and you can see the machines with flowing chocolate, have a go at piping a truffle and learn how long it takes to make one singular truffle! Also interesting to learn how Only Mine are helping the ethical growth of cacoa beans and supporting the farmers through Cocoa Trace
And Mamma’s favourite bit - you get to sample some delectable truffles!
Once the tour is over, head back into the shop and put your new found chocolate knowledge to work and choose some treats! Mamma highly recommends the Swiss White Block and the Sea Salt Dark Chocolate truffles - AMAZING!
the nitty gritty
Unit 2/31 Camino Cres, Cranbourne West, 3977
OPEN
Tours run every second Saturday
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma's special mention: Burn off the sugar at the action packed Social Fair!
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 musuem, 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.
harry potter: a forbidden forest experience, mount martha
Experience the enchanted illuminated forest filled with all the wizardry wonder and muggle madness you'd expect from Harry Potter!
Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience in Mount Martha is a truly unique experience that Harry Potter fans are simply going to adore.
Experience the enchanted forest filled with all the wizardry wonder and muggle madness you'd expect from Harry Potter!
Mamma's crew were mesmerised by this mystical, slighty spooky and spectacular experience. The highlights had to be casting a patronus - the crew managed to produce a bunny, wolf and weasel!
The walk through the illuminated forest takes you on a journey - both visual and audial, through scenes from the Harry Potter story. Amazing effects will show Harry confronting Dementors, unicorns timidly walking through the forest, the enchanted Ford Anglia crashed amongst the trees, Aragog coming out of his nest and SO much more.
The walk will take between an hour to an hour and a half - depending on how much you stop and interact. There’s a little Hogsmeade replica for you to sit and enjoy some Butterbeer, hot chocolate and a variety of hot food. You can even toast some marshmallows!
Whilst this experience isn’t exactly a cheap one, it is definitely a unique one - that will leave a lasting memory!
the nitty gritty
The Briars Community Forest, 442 Nepean Hwy, Mount Martha, 3934
OPENS
6th April 2024
Mondays-Sundays,
5:30 p.m. - 11 p.m. (Sunday - Thursday last entry at 9:45 p.m.) (Friday- Saturday last entry at 10:15 p.m.)
Duration: approx. 60-90 minutes (the walking trail takes approx 45-75 minutes)
Tickets from $49
Wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention:
Fuel up on some yummy burgers and chips at Loosies Diner before your adventure!
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
dinosaur world, somerville
Dinosaur fans UNITE! Every kid Mamma knows loves dinosaurs, so add this to your to do list ASAP if you haven't already.
Every kid Mamma knows loves dinosaurs, so add this to your to do list ASAP if you haven't already. This is as close to the real thing as we are (hopefully) ever going to get, and yes they do look real - they also move and growl so some little ones may get a bit scared. NEW Dinos have now been added to an extra space out the back, including water Dinos AND a Dino Train that rattles around the new space every hour from 10 to 3.
There are over 20 dinosaurs to see and read about, plus if you're lucky you might get to meet Wilson the walking dino. Plus you can also experience being a paleontologist in the fossil dig. They have recently added a playground too for some more dino themed fun They also do birthday parties ROAR-some!
Mamma's special mention: The park is in a Christmas tree plantation and sometimes you can go for a carriage ride around the pines too, So much fun! Check out STORY TIME on Fridays.
the nitty gritty
BBQ facilities - picnic tables - playground
Friday 10am - 3pm
Sat/Sun 10am–4pm
Public Holidays
(except Good Friday)
Every day in school holidays
*Dinosaur World is open every day over the June/July school holidays but will close for winter from July 15 and reopen 1st September*
Wanna know more? click here
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?
click here
Mamma's Special Mention
Keep the good times rolling and check out the spectacular view at The Eagle Skylift
sunset penguin tours, st kilda pier
What a perfect adventure – a penguin-watching experience at the St Kilda Breakwater wall, where around 1400 Little Penguins make their way to shore at sunset, and the knowledgeable staff are great with kids and questions!
What a perfect adventure. The ferry ride around the bay is pure beauty, totally stress-free, fun and relaxed. It’s a great way to take in the city views.
Time to find some penguins - watch out for the ‘rafts’ of 30-50 penguins floating on the surface as the sun goes down, and they make their way home.
The St Kilda Breakwater wall is now a charming home to approximately 1400 Little penguins. As sunset approaches, witness these adorable penguins waddle to shore from the ferry, and as the sun sets, a red-light torch reveals their gorgeous silhouettes atop the wall.
The staff are very knowledgeable about the little penguins and are fantastic with kids and all their questions!
CLICK here for more information on the penguin tours
The ferry has indoor seating and outdoor seating, some snacks and beverages (wine, beer and soft drinks) are available too.
the nitty gritty
St Kilda Pier
Pier Road
St Kilda Vic 3182
Operating times vary across the seasons (Friday, Saturday and Sunday)
Bookings are essential to avoid disappointment
wanna know more?
click here
Mamma’s special mention
Make a day of it and head to the iconic LUNA PARK!
deluxe safari tent @ park lane holiday park, phillip island
Now THIS is the only way this Mamma will go camping ever again! Luxury Glamping at its finest!
Now THIS is the only way that Mamma will go camping again! The Deluxe Safari Tents at Park Lane Holiday Park in Phillip Island, are the most luxurious glamping family experience you will ever have.
This is glamping at its finest - think of a deluxe family cabin - but covered by a tent! We’re talking 2 bedrooms - one with 2 sets of bunks, the other with a Queen four-poster bed complete with mosquito net AND electric blanket! A bathroom with a shower, toilet - even a hair dryer. Then there’s the kitchen - mircowave, full size fridge, 4 slice toaster and kettle.
The lounge room has a couch, TV and reverse cycle AC. Not to mention a 6 seater dining table and cute little touches throughout. Mamma’s crew favourite thing was the egg chair! Oh and the games like Monopoly, UNO and puzzles.
Mamma’s favourite was the outdoor decking with a built in BBQ, table and couch. The perfect spot to enjoy your morning coffee listening to the majestic birdsong, whilst trying to spot a nearby koala or wallaby!
The location is fabulous - with Rusty Water Brewery right in front of you and Amaze n Things right next door! (All guests receive 50% off entry fees!).
This is definitely a luxury, and a memory Mamma’s family will never forget!
the nitty gritty
Mamma’s special mention:
There’s SO MUCH to do at Phillip Island, click here for our MUST DO’s in Phillip Island.
the funky farm, hastings
All Mamma can say is - wow! What an experience the wonderful Funky Farm is. Where else can you cuddle a wombat? Walk with emus? Wander amongst the wallabies and wonder at the prehistoric likeness of the saltwater crocodiles?
All Mamma can say is - wow! What an experience this wonderful place is. Where else can you cuddle a wombat? Walk with emus? Wander amongst the wallabies and wonder at the prehistoric likeness of the saltwater crocodiles? All included in your admission price - no added on fees to feed or pat ANY incredible animal here. AND, the whole farm is wheelchair accessible - even incorporating perspex fencing so viewing these magnificent animals is always possible.
Included in your ticket is a guided tour, with a fantastic, passionate - very knowledgeable guide, in small groups. So you will have a chance to learn, pat and have a photo with all of the animals.
Mamma can’t help but to have a particular love for the giant, cheeky wombats. There are a couple living here, and they are super friendly and a little bit naughty. You can get right up close, pat and if you’re lucky - you may even get a cuddle from these beautiful creatures.
Then there are the placid dingoes, who love a pat (and may even give your hands a little lick.) Loads of reptiles - lizards of all sizes and even a few huge snakes! You’ll also get to check out some crocodiles!
You’ll also be able to hand feed some kangaroos, wallabies and emus and have a chat to some magnificent coloured birds, some may even chat back to you!
This has to be one of Mamma’s crews all time favourite spots. The lovely owners have some fantastic plans in store to create some shows, and are always adding great new experiences. They’re extremely passionate about inclusiveness and have even created a whole separate section for a pathways program. Check out more about their Mornington Peninsula Wildlife Project here.
All animals at this wildlife sanctuary are rescue animals and they are very much loved members of The Funky Farm family.
*note - You will need to book in advance. No walk ins. The Farm can also come to you! School groups, parties and more.
Mamma’s special mention:
Keep the animal fun going and head down the road for a coffee and feed the animals at the stunning Benton Rise Farm
