Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

wings ‘n’ roses, pakenham

Mamma lives with a household of bird lovers who have not stopped squawking about their visit to Wings ‘n’ Roses in Pakenham.

Mamma lives with a household of bird lovers who have not stopped squawking about their visit to Wings ‘n’ Roses in Pakenham.

If you have a twitcher in your life, this place is a must-visit. A trip to Wings ‘n’ Roses starts with a meander around the beautiful rose gardens, with tame chickens and geese running around underfoot.

With your birdseed in hand, it’s time to check out the free-flight aviaries. These are home to a variety of bird types, from rescue birds, to Australian natives, to exotic parrots - these aviaries have it all! The birds vary in their levels of tameness, some will fly right at you, while others will take a little while to warm up.

There are aviaries as far as the eye can see throughout this gorgeous property, Mamma’s eldest was particularly captivated by the rare blue lorikeet, while Mamma’s youngest still talks about the gentle cockatiel that cuddled up on his arm.

The highlight of a visit to this beautiful spot is a trip to the main free-flight aviary, a trip inside here is an extra fee but Mamma says it is well worth it! Here, a selection of tame birds come out to play. Hearing owner Michael talk about their unique quirks and personalities shows just how in tune he is with these amazing birds, most of whom he’s raised from birth! Mamma still can’t quite believe she had the opportunity to hold an African Grey Parrot (who loves head rubs, by the way!) and Mr Mamma still talks about the gorgeous Macaw that took up residence on his shoulder.

Mamma highly recommends a trip to Wings ‘n’ Roses for the bird lover in your life. It’s sure to be a precious memory for years to come.

the details
35 Leppitt Rd, Pakenham

OPEN
Wednesday - Sunday
11am-5pm
CLOSED
Monday + Tuesday

General admission is $10 (children under 4 are free). Additional experiences can be booked for an additional fee.

Wanna know more? Click here

Mamma's special mention:

It’s not just the birds who need a feed - if your little ones are hungy after their exotic encounter, head around the corner to Nancy Eatery.

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Amy Long Amy Long

little farm plays, pakenham

Mamma knows there’s nothing better than getting the kiddos outdoors. And if an outdoor adventure can include getting up and close with beautiful farm animals, then Mamma’s two are absolutely in! Enter Little Farm Plays in Pakenham, the perfect outing for the would-be farmers in your life. 

Mamma knows there’s nothing better than getting the kiddos outdoors. And if an outdoor adventure can include getting up and close with beautiful farm animals, then Mamma’s two are absolutely in! Enter Little Farm Plays in Pakenham, the perfect outing for the would-be farmers in your life. 

A Farm Experience at Little Farm Plays is the perfect way to immerse your little ones in the tranquility and joy of nature. From cuddles with chickens, to feeding sheep, to meeting friendly cows, to bedazzling a pony, there is something to captivate every one, even the Mammas, as little ones engage in a hands-on learning experience they’ll remember for years to come.

Budding farmers have the opportunity to collect eggs from the chicken shed before filling their buckets with feed to scatter for the chickens. Then there are opportunities to feed the sheep (all named after Bluey characters!), cows and horses. Farmer Susan calmly and patiently explains to little ones all of the ways to engage well with the animals so that it is a beautiful experience for all involved. Mamma’s eldest still loves talking about how he’s learnt how to pick up a young chick and pat a friendly rooster. 

Once the cows and horses are cuddled and fed, it’s time to meet Tommy. Tommy is a miniature pony, and he looks fabulous once he’s been bedazzled. Children are given the opportunity to lead Tommy up and walk him to his feed bag and while Tommy is having a munch on some hay, the little ones get to work decorating his tail and mane in bright and beautiful clips. This is a highlight for little farmers, as they get to brush and decorate Tommy, learning about how to care for ponies and ways to pat them calmly and kindly.

A visit to Little Farm Plays is truly such a special experience. With activities ranging from nature-based playgroups, school holiday programs, birthday parties and pony plays, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this slice of rural paradise.

the details

170 Thewlis Rd, Pakenham

Open Tuesday - Sunday 9am-5pm

Visits by appointment only 

Mamma’s special mention: Nancy Eatery is just around the corner and is the perfect spot for a post-farm feed.

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