Mandy Couzens Mandy Couzens

every drop counts - a conversation about conservation!

We all know how integral water is to our everyday lives. It nourishes us and is essential as we go about our daily routines - drinking, washing, cleaning, cooking, and creating. Yet, having instant access to fresh water is something most of us take for granted. In Melbourne, we’re fortunate to have some of the freshest and cleanest water in the world. But our supply is limited, making the water we do have our most precious resource.

Our city is growing every day, and with more people it means we’re using more water than rainfall is providing. Oh, and it’s not just people who rely on our precious resource - animals and entire ecosystems depend on fresh water to survive and thrive too!

The numbers: Well, the average person here in Melbourne uses 162 litres of water a day. Now, if we could reduce that to 150 litres, the effect would be huge on our supply (and in our pockets too!)
Did you know your water bill tells you how much water you use per day? To work out if you're meeting Target 150, look for the daily water use information on your bill.


How can we do this? Firstly, being mindful of our daily water use, and implementing ways to save water every day - that we know we can stick to. Also getting the whole family involved and working together. Check your next bill to see how well you have all done!

We are all busy families, so Mamma has some simple ways we can save water every day at home

1. In the laundry - be sure to have a full load in the washing machine, use the eco cycle, and when purchasing new appliances be sure to buy water-efficient products.

2. In the garden - Make sure you check the weather before watering the garden - no need to water if rain is on its way! The best times to water is morning and evening - and use a trigger nozzle on your hose which helps get water to the right spot and reduce evaporation.
It’s always best to use native plants when you can as they are more drought resistant. Also, mulch in garden beds helps to retain water in the soil.

3. In the kitchen - you can save water by skipping the rinse before loading plates into the dishwasher. Did you know the average dishwasher uses around 13 litres of water per load, while hand washing can use at least 20 litres? Also again, be sure to check the efficiency when buying new appliances.

4. In the bathroom - Take a few minutes off your shower time – there's no need to sing the whole song you have in your head! Teenagers, we know you love to take your time, but consider using a timer to remind you to save both water and money by taking a shorter shower.

Oh, and water-saving showerheads make a huge difference!

Remember to just use the half flush button - and make sure the kids know which is which!

Dont let all that bathwater go down the drain! Get the kids to help carry buckets out and empty onto the garden.

5. All over the home - Check for leaking taps. A dripping tap can waste between 30 and 200 litres of water a day, adding up to 12,000 litres a year. A running tap uses around 16 litres of water per minute.

Most importantly keep the conversation about conservation flowing at home.

Mamma says what we do today will help the future of our kids, AND their kids! Let’s do this together and make every drop count!

Head to your local water provider for more information 

Barwon Water Greater Western Water Melbourne Water South East Water Yarra Valley Water

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

frankston heights primary school fair, frankston

.This fair has been 2 years in the making and promises to be the best one yet!

Here’s a great local family friendly event!

This fair has promises to be the best one yet!

There will be rides, games, show bags, lucky dips, lollies, fairy floss, slushies, hair colouring, face paint, and more for the kids!
Book stores , cake stalls, Devonshire tea, clothing stalls, a BBQ even a Wine and Beer garden for the adults!

The kids are VERY EXCITED!

the nitty gritty

NOVEMBER 15TH
1pm - 6pm
Free entry


10 Kalmia St Frankston

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

hello kitty takeover at hotel chadstone, chadstone

Celebrate Hello Kitty’s 50th Anniversary in style at Hotel Chadstone Melbourne!

Mamma’s crew had THE BEST time celebrating Hello Kitty’s 50th Anniversary in style at Hotel Chadstone Melbourne!

For a limited time, you too can also enjoy a fabulous overnight stay with a buffet breakfast for the whole family, plus complimentary parking and exclusive Hello Kitty goodies! Each room comes with a cute Hello Kitty tote bag, cap, and mug.

Inclusions:

  • Overnight accommodation

  • Breakfast buffet

  • Hello Kitty tote bag

  • Hello Kitty cap

  • Hello Kitty mug

This super kawaii package is available from September 20th to November 17th - perfect for a treat!!

Plus - Mamma’s crew also indulged in the divine Hello Kitty themed High Tea!

We started with gourmet savory treats, then indulged in sweet delights inspired by Hello Kitty’s playful spirit. Want a bit more decadence? Add a signature Hello Kitty mocktail!

Pricing:

  • High tea only: $85 per adult, $45 per child

  • High tea + mocktail: $100 per adult, $55 per child

When:
Fridays: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Saturdays & Sundays: 11:30 AM – 4:00 PM
(90-minute seating; last seating at 2:30 PM)

Available September 20th to November 17th, 2024.

While you are there check out the Hello Kitty Cafe (in the Social Quarter near Strike Bowling) it is very PINK and full of very kawaii treats!

the nitty gritty

Chadstone Shopping Centre
1341 Dandenong Road Malvern East 3145

High Tea from 20th September to 17th November

Hello Kitty Accommodation Special
20th September to 17th November

Presented in partnership with Chadstone Shopping Centre

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

kingston arts school holiday program

Kaleidoscope is a holiday arts program for kids ages 10–17, bursting with creativity and fun! Dive into acting, improv, music, crafts, and visual arts in workshops designed to spark your imagination and let your creativity shine.

Notice how your kids shine when they get creative or catch a live show?

Kingston Arts' Kaleidoscope holiday program for ages 10–17 is the perfect mix of acting, improv, music, crafts, and visual arts.

They’ll dive into fun workshops and laugh their socks off at live science shows and a wacky librarian!

What’s On?

Monday Workshops at Kingston Arts Centre

Create a Comic Book with Rebel Stepz
10am–12pm: Dive into the world of anime and superhero comics. Learn to craft dynamic characters and epic stories with expert drawing tips.
Age: 10–17 | Cost: $25 + Booking Fee

Create Your Own Clay Magnets
1pm–2pm: Sculpt and paint your own colourful clay magnets. Perfect for beginners wanting to make unique fridge art.
Age: 10–17 | Cost: $15 + Booking Fee

Tuesday Workshop at Kingston Arts Centre

Make a Monoprint with a Touch of Nature
10am–12pm: Create unique art inspired by nature! Join artist Melissa Gaggiano to explore abstract patterns using natural objects. All materials provided—just wear clothes you don't mind getting paint on.
Age: 10–17 | Cost: $25 + Booking Fee

Tuesday Workshops at Shirley Burke Theatre

Youth Musical Theatre Workshop
9am–12:30pm: Learn songs and scenes from Annie with star Queenie van de Zandt. Boost your confidence and polish your skills. Wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes; bring a snack and water.
Age: 10–13 | Cost: $45 + Booking Fee

Teen Musical Theatre Workshop
1:30pm–5pm: Dive into musical theatre with Queenie van de Zandt. Explore character development and audition tips. Wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes; bring a snack and water.
Age: 14–17 | Cost: $45 + Booking Fee

Wednesday Workshops at Kingston Arts Centre

Improv and Instant Acting
Learn improv basics with comedian Rob Lloyd! Create characters, scenes, and stories on the spot in a fun, laughter-filled workshop.
Ages 10–13: 11am–1pm
Ages 14–17: 2pm–4pm
Cost: $25 + Booking Fee

Thursday Workshop at Kingston Arts Centre

Make a Marvelous and Magical Doll
Craft a soft, magical doll with artist Melissa Gaggiano! Inspired by The Wind in the Willows and Sweet Tooth, you'll create a special doll with no prior sewing skills needed. All materials provided—just bring a snack and water.
Time: 10am–1pm
Age: 10–17 | Cost: $35 + Booking Fee

Thursday Workshop at Kingston Arts Centre

Rhythm Jam: A Drumming Workshop
Get your groove on with musician Rod Pilois! Explore percussion techniques and rhythms on djembe and stick drums.
Ages 10–13: 10am–11am
Ages 14–17: 12pm–1pm
Cost: $15 + Booking Fee

Also on in Kingston -

The Librarian
At first, Paul-Émile Dumoulin looks like a typical librarian—serious, orderly, and obsessed with perfect shelves. But once he dives into a book, he transforms into wacky characters doing acrobatics, juggling, breakdancing, and beatboxing! This show combines clowning, physical theater, and circus arts to show kids how reading can transport you to wild adventures and fantastical worlds.
Click here for details

You're An Instrument is a thrilling show for kids 5-12 where two scientists turn every move, thought, and feeling into music! From ancient sounds to cutting-edge tech, kids get to shape the story, dance, and create magic (and a few surprises) together!
Click here for details

the nitty gritty

The City of Kingston are running multiple school holiday workshops and shows throughout the school holidays

Presented in partnership with The City of Kingston

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

paul sadler swimland in the south

We all know how important it is to teach our kiddos to swim. If you are looking for a reputable, friendly and fun swim school then you will find a Paul Sadler Swimland nearby! Running classes for ALL ages from babies to adults.

We all know how important it is to teach our kiddos to swim. If you are looking for a reputable, friendly and fun swim school then you will find a Paul Sadler Swimland nearby! Running classes for ALL ages from babies to adults.

Paul Sadler started back in 1972 with a .premise of teaching swim lessons with a focus on survival skills. This foundation on teaching more than just stroke development has remained in place even as the program has evolved over the past 50 years.  Now, Paul Sadler Swimland has a world-leading learn to swim program that is run by a great team of swimming teachers who help children and adults of all ages engage in stress-free learning and grow a passion for the water, every day.

The different programs they have on offer are

PARENT CHILD PROGRAM
Swimming classes for children 4 months to 3 years. (4/5 months old can swim for FREE!)

CHILDREN’S LEARN TO SWIM
Indoor swim classes for any children over 3 years old.

HOLIDAY SWIMMING PROGRAM
Learn swimming during the school holidays.

ADULT LEARN
TO SWIM
Adult swimming class for adults of any skill level.

PRIVATE SWIMMING LESSONS
Private lesson swimming for those who need extra support.

the nitty gritty

They have centres in

Carrum Downs
Narre Warren
Rowville

Presented in partnership with Paul Sadler Swimland

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

magic by moonlight @ george pentland gardens, frankston

Get ready for a magical journey at George Pentland Botanical Gardens this September and October!

Magic by Moonlight transforms the gardens into a glowing wonderland with over 30,000 lights and 400 dazzling installations. Perfect for all ages, this spectacular light festival promises fun and enchantment!

Get ready for a magical journey at George Pentland Botanical Gardens this September and October!

Magic by Moonlight transforms the gardens into a glowing wonderland with over 30,000 lights and 400 dazzling installations. Perfect for all ages, this spectacular light festival promises fun and enchantment!

Explore Four Magical Realms:

  • Fairy Land: Meet fairies, goblins, and elves in a snowy forest

  • Dinosaur Land: Encounter giant dinosaurs and volcanoes

  • Underwater World: Dive into a sparkling aquatic adventure

  • Animal Kingdom: Roam through jungles filled with amazing creatures

Tickets on Sale Now.A portion of the proceeds supports Peninsula Health.

Some food trucks and beverage stands will be available each evening.

Join in for an evening of wonder and delight!

Don’t miss out on this moonlight adventure!

the nitty gritty

George Pentland Botanic Gardens
Corner of Williams and Foot Streets, Frankston


Event Dates & Times:

Thur 12th – Sun 15th Sept:
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Thur 19th – Sun 22nd Sept:
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM

Mon 23rd Sept – Sun 6th Oct:
5:30 PM – 10:00 PM (VIC School Holidays)

Presented in partnership with Magic by Moonlight

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

Images supplied

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

prehistoric bayside at bayside gallery

Miss 11 described the latest exhibition at Brighton Gallery as interesting, intriguing, and educational. The family-friendly "Prehistoric Bayside" exhibition showcases Australia's most exciting fossil discoveries, featuring colossal killer sperm whales and gigantic sharks from 5-6 million years ago. Kids can enjoy fun activities and short films about fossils. Curated by palaeontologist Ben Francischelli, this free exhibition is perfect for sparking a love of fossil hunting.

Interesting, intriguing, and educational

‘Learning in a fun way’ is how Miss 11 described the latest exhibition at Bayside Gallery in Brighton. If you, like Mamma, have kids who are fascinated by the prehistoric era, then check out Prehistoric Bayside.

Get ready to journey back in time at this family-friendly exhibition at the beautiful Bayside Gallery. The exhibition brings to life an era where colossal killer sperm whales and gigantic sharks dominated the seas, showcasing Australia's most exciting fossil discoveries right here in Bayside. The gallery specimens, most on show for the first time, explore an ancient world dating back an astonishing 5-6 million years.

The kids can also grab a clipboard and complete a fun activity sheet while exploring the gallery, and at the end, redeem some stickers too, which of course, we loved. Oh, and the short films about the fossils are excellent too! Curated by the renowned palaeontologist Ben Francischelli, it's a great free exhibition that will no doubt spark a love of the prehistoric world.

There are lots of unique events planned for Prehistoric Bayside. From the interactive 'Shadow Beasts of Bayside' and 'Prehistoric Cartoon Kids Workshop' to the insightful curator talks and ''Fossil Roadshow', There’s something for everyone. 

Some events require advance ticket booking and a fee, so be sure to secure your spot.

the nitty gritty

at Bayside Gallery, Brighton

Bayside Gallery is open at the following times.

Wednesday - Friday
11am - 5pm
Weekends 1pm - 5pm

Prehistoric Bayside exhibition is on
29 June to
25 August
2024

FREE ENTRY

No booking required

Presented in partnership with Bayside City Council

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

glow winter arts festival, malvern east

Glow Winter Arts Festival presents a free program of stunning and immersive outdoor installations to spark curiosity after-dark in Malvern East on July 18th - 21st.


Interactive. Immersive. Illuminated.

Celebrating ten years of illumination.

Returning this July, the Glow Winter Arts Festival presents a free program of stunning and immersive outdoor installations to spark curiosity after-dark in Malvern East. Glow invites visitors to go on a magical journey of light through Central Park.

Concentrated in one spectacular location over four nights, Glow Winter Arts Festival offers audiences the chance to be immersed in a night-world of colour and light. The Festival includes innovative works never before presented in Victoria.

Let your imagination guide you through larger-than-life installations, forests of colour and experience winter in Stonnington like never before at Glow Winter Arts Festival 2024!

the nitty gritty

From 18th - 21st July
Thursday 5pm – 10pm
Friday 5pm – 11pm
Saturday 5pm – 11pm
Sunday 5pm – 10pm

FREE entry

Central Park
148 Burke Rd, Malvern East 3145

 

Presented in partnership with Stonnington City Council

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

island whale festival @ cowes, phillip island

Get ready for the Island Whale Festival this winter, happening July 5th-7th across Phillip Island!

Get ready for the Island Whale Festival this winter, happening July 5th-7th across Phillip Island!

Phillip Island is buzzing with excitement as they celebrate their incredible marine visitors — humpback whales, southern right whales, and even the occasional killer whale!

The Festival Experience Hub is where the action is this year, promising endless fun for everyone:

  • Dive into an immersive underwater-themed space where you'll feel like you’re swimming with our majestic marine mammals.

  • Experience ‘snorkelling’ on the Great Southern Ocean Reef through virtual reality.

  • Get creative with ocean-themed art and crafts, including adding your own touch to our interactive whale tail art wall.

  • Engage in captivating talks and presentations in the theatre, featuring performances by the Ngargee Dance Group.

  • Complete your Festival Experience Passport by exploring fun learning exhibits and collecting stamps to win cool prizes!

Learn all about the incredible humpback whale migration, the colossal blue whale, and the endangered southern right whales straight from whale scientists. Dive deep into the past with paleontologists as they uncover fossil whales and reveal the tales of the Megalodon.

Enjoy live music by local talents, unwind with lawn games in the garden, and discover stories at the library with free activities from the Historical Society.

For those craving more add-on experiences — from workshops with local artists teaching cartoon whale drawing to creating your own calico bag or wooden whale tail art piece. And don’t miss face painting and beach tours with Ranger Sue to learn how to protect our oceans.

Plus, catch the Ocean Film Festival on July 4th and the Whales, Wine, and Wisdom Science and Film event on July 6th, with plenty more island-wide events to explore.

Some other locations for Whale fun are -

  1. Dolphin Research Institute & Two Bays Whale Project 📍 Woolamai Beach Surf Life Saving Club, Cape Woolamai
    Dive into a session with experts to learn how to spot whales and discover Victoria's marine giants. Engage in fun activities that bring these magnificent creatures to life.

  2. Pop Up Art Show 📍 Nobbies Visitor Centre, Summerland
    Meet talented local artists, view their works, and perhaps find a treasure to take home. Enjoy the stunning coastline views and keep an eye out for passing whales!

  3. Clay & Co Studio – Craft Workshops 📍 4 Shorland Way, Cowes
    Unleash your creativity at craft workshops where you can paint plaster and ceramic sea creatures. Dive into inspiration with stencils and stamps provided by Clay & Co.

While you're here, don't miss the Phillip Island and Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail, offering prime whale-watching spots from Phillip Island to Inverloch. Bundle up, grab your binoculars, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes along the way.

Whale Watching from the Water Join Wildlife Coast Cruises for unforgettable experiences:

  • Winter Whale Cruise: 8:30am – 12:30pm from Rhyll Jetty

  • Dolphin & Whale Cruise: 1pm – 4pm from San Remo Jetty Book your spot at www.wildlifecoastcruises.com.au or call 1300 763 739.

For a full program of events and activities, click here.
Book early to secure your place and follow Island Whales on Facebook and Instagram.

Plan your winter whale escape and discover more at visitphillipisland.com.au!

the nitty gritty

From 5th - 7th July

Festival Hub -
91-97 Thompson Ave, Cowes 3922
Plus Multiple locations across Cowes, Phillip Island

 

Presented in partnership with Destination Phillip Island Victoria

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Mandy Couzens Mandy Couzens

bbq's of the world @ dandenong market

Get your tastebuds ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey at Dandenong Markets' BBQs of the World!

Get your tastebuds ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey at Dandenong Markets' BBQs of the World!

From smoky American BBQ to fiery Argentinian asado, and everything in between, this festival is a BBQ lovers dream come true. With tantalizing flavors from around the globe, including Korean BBQ, Indian tandoori, Brazilian churrasco, and more, your taste buds are in for a treat. Vegetarians are catered for as well!

 But it's not just about the food – enjoy free entertainment like dance performances and drum workshops, making it a fun day out for the whole family.

While you’re there, stock up on the freshest meat and produce, browse the many market stalls in the Bazaar, and let the kids loose on the playground!

Bring your appetite and get ready to indulge in the ultimate BBQ adventure!

the nitty gritty

Date: Sun 21 Apr 2024
Time: 11am-3pm

Cleeland St, Dandenong 

Presented in partnership with Dandenong Market

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Mandy Couzens Mandy Couzens

Yakult factory tours, dandenong south

Now here is a fantastic opportunity to go behind the scenes in a real life, fully operational factory AND learn all about the human gut at the same time.

Now here is a fantastic opportunity to go behind the scenes in a real life, fully operational factory AND learn all about the human gut at the same time. Yakult are welcoming families and groups to their state of the art facility in Dandenong. 

As part of this unique experience, you and the kids watch as the crew fill, label, pack and ship out the world famous probiotic drink. You get a great birds eye view of the floor, all from the safety of the viewing platform above. The machines are mind blowing as they are able to fill 700 bottles of Yakult a minute. It’s almost impossible to see it all with the naked eye.

It’s not just about conveyor belts and machines, you’ll learn heaps about our digestive system, beneficial bacteria and gut health in the eduction room as well as the development of the unique bacterium Lactobacillus casei Shirota (LcS) strain that was discovered by Dr Shirota back in 1930.

One of the highlights too, the taste testing and showbags! The factory tours are on offer during weekdays and run for around 1 hour. Plus it is FREE! Bookings are essential.

Mamma's special mentions: During the school holidays there is a special guided tour program, which lasts for 2 hours and includes the tour, healthy eating and craft activities or an interactive augmented reality game focused on increasing good bacteria. The program is suitable for early primary school children and their families. Bookings open a few weeks before the school holidays – jump on the website to book your family a spot.

the nitty gritty

PRICE
FREE
Bookings are essential

Factory Tours are currently booked until the end of May

wanna know more? click here

10 Monterey Rd, Dandenong South

Presented in partnership with Yakult

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Mandy Couzens Mandy Couzens

School Holidays at Peninsula Hot Springs!

Come have a revitalising dip with a side of FUN these holidays - there is so much happening for the whole family at Peninsula Hot Springs!

Come have a revitalising dip with a side of FUN these holidays - there is so much happening for the whole family at Peninsula Hot Springs!

From Monday 18th to Friday 29th there are some amazing activities on, such as family yoga, storytelling, workshops and family movies in the Amphitheatre! Plus daily fun of plant and animal discoveries.

Book in your revitalising bathe and these activities are FREE with your booking!


Time for some self care with the family ❤️

Presented in partnership with Peninsula Hot Springs

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

glow winter festival, malvern

Get ready for a mind-blowing adventure at the Glow Winter Arts Festival!

Get ready for a mind-blowing adventure at the Glow Winter Arts Festival! Experience dazzling lights, incredible artworks, and a whole lot of fun at historic Central Park in Malvern East. It's a four-night extravaganza filled with colors, live performances, and delicious snacks from food trucks.

Wander through the gardens and prepare to be amazed by the illuminated artworks surrounding you. Get up close, walk through them, and even catch a captivating performance inside a conservatory. It's a unique and imaginative experience that guarantees an unforgettable night out. And the best part? It is FREE!

The festival showcases awe-inspiring artworks by acclaimed Australian artists. Discover Central Park like never before as you explore these large-scale illuminated masterpieces, each with its own captivating meaning and story.

Here's a sneak peek of the eye-catching installations awaiting you:

  • ESCAPE TO THE ALPS: Journey through a neon alpine forest, where you can ski, toboggan, and play with a giant snowman. It's a winter wonderland brought to life by the creative team at Volter International.

  • MONSTERS LOVE YOU...BUT MIGHT EAT YOU: Witness a massive inflatable artwork bursting with color, celebrating the joyous spirit of human beings. It encourages us to embrace our differences and stop hiding.

  • CONSERVATORY: Be enchanted by a live performance that reflects moments of loneliness and joy within a plant-filled biosphere. It reminds us of the interconnectedness between humans and our ever-changing world.

  • TREE MAN: Marvel at a glowing beacon of inflatable light, symbolizing the importance of nurturing our environment. Its screen-shaped head references our digital-driven culture and prompts us to find balance.

  • GLITTERING NIGHT: Step into a dreamy realm, born from the depths of our imagination. It gently sways, sings, and invites contemplation.

Warm up with hot chocolate and tasty snacks from food trucks on-site. Local businesses from nearby areas will also offer refreshments to keep you energized.

Mark your calendar for the Glow Winter Arts Festival and get ready for a glowing good time!

the nitty gritty

WHERE?

Central Park, 148 Burke Rd, Malvern East

WHEN?
Thursday, June 15 to Sunday, June 18, with illuminations from 5pm to 10pm (11pm on Friday and Saturday).

Mamma and The City of Stonnington Council worked together to share this program.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

MyGolf with Golf Australia

MyGolf is a fun junior program supported by Golf Australia and run at golf courses throughout Melbourne led by PGA Professionals or a licensed Community Instructor

We all know our classic after school activities but have you ever considered golf for your little learners?

MyGolf is a fun junior program supported by Golf Australia and run at golf courses throughout Melbourne led by PGA Professionals or a licensed Community Instructor. Mamma and her two took the opportunity to check out the after school program at Gardiner’s Run in Chirnside Park and had a great session out on the warm-up greens. Mamma’s 5 and 8 year old had a ball learning essential golf skills including correct hand grip, chipping actions and target practice.

It’s a great activity for all kids, but especially those who thrive on individual pursuits with the added bonus of working in groups at times and games to consolidate skills. Some activities were challenging at first but when the ball finally goes the way you want it - it is super rewarding. Plus there is plenty of guidance from community instructors along the way.  Golf is one of the most picturesque of all the sports to supervise, so the parents will enjoy it just as much!

Sessions usually run for 45 minutes to an hour and clubs can provide all the equipment or you can choose to add on the MyGolf Participant pack when registering which sets up the kids with GolPhin GFK 7 Iron, and two lightweight, safe to use and easy to hit balls. You can find all the venues, times and costs at the MyGolf Website - registering online is super easy.

the nitty gritty

Programs are designed for kids ages 5 - 12 years

Mamma and Golf Australia worked together to share this program.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

the waterfront festival, frankston

The Waterfront Festival is back! And this year it is bigger than EVER over two fun-filled days!

The Waterfront Festival is back bigger than EVER over two fun-filled days!

Mamma CANNOT WAIT for this festival- it’s a family favourite! It’s the perfect chance for parents to kick back and enjoy the sunshine - have a drink with friends, enjoy some delicious food - and the kids are entertained with a HEAP of fun and FREE activities!

There is loads of family fun - on and off the water with something to suit all ages and budgets.

Festival highlights are:

There’s something for all ages to enjoy here, so bring the family and experience all the fun that the Waterfront Festival offers.

  • Mamma will see you there!

To know what’s happening in and around Frankston City follow: Discover Frankston | Facebook
For Waterfront Festival updates follow: The Waterfront Festival | Facebook

Mamma's special mentions: There is LOADS to discover in Frankston while you’re here, check out Frankston foreshore playground, Sweetwater Creek, Beauty Park, George Pentland Botanic Gardens and Playground, and General Public

the nitty gritty

ENTRY IS FREE

Saturday 12th February
12pm - 10pm

Sunday 13th February
12pm - 8pm

Frankston Waterfront

Presented in partnership with Frankston City Council

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

roola boola children's arts festival from the city of stonnington

The Roola Boola Children's Arts Festival has started this week in the City of Stonnington, and will run until Friday 8 July. With boisterous fun for children on offer, the Festival will feature performances, workshops, free events and unique activities that will ignite and inspire children's imaginations these school holidays.

It’s finally here!! The Roola Boola Children's Arts Festival has started this week in the City of Stonnington, and will run until Friday 8 July. With boisterous fun for children on offer, the Festival will feature performances, workshops, free events and unique activities that will ignite and inspire children's imaginations these school holidays.

Families will have big brass belly laughs with Circus Trick Tease, be captivated by the techniques of Hoopla Clique, be immersed in creative, hands-on workshops and more. Suitable for children aged 12 and under, Roola Boola Children's Arts Festival is one of Melbourne's most successful annual children's arts festivals and features spectacular and spellbinding performances at Chapel off Chapel for families this school holidays:

Circus Trick Tease – Brass Monkeys celebrates kids who march to the beat of their own drum. Bursting with high calibre acrobatics, a ton of comedy, live music and high-flying tricks, this show is perfect for little kids and grown-ups who like a big brass belly laugh. Friday 1 July.  

Hoopla Clique– Chores is an action-packed comedy circus performance that tells the story of two brothers who don't want to do their chores and tidy their room. This performance is jam-packed full of silly jokes, cool stunts, acrobatic flips, unicycles, juggling, and the infamous toilet paper gun. Wednesday 6 July.

The Listies and Critical Stages Touring – ROFL (Rolling On The Floor Laughing) is a bonkers sketch comedy extravaganza of epic proportions, made just for kids. The show is jam-packed with magically stupid stuff like toilet paper cannons, a real-life cowasaurus, and the kind of madness that only the award-winning maestros of kidault comedy can make. Friday 8 July.

Children and their parents can also join workshops at Chapel Off Chapel from NICA, Fizz Kidz, Amos Roach, and more! Children will be immersed in magic, puppetry, circus, dance, music, theatre, arts, craft, and more – there's something for every child to enjoy. Highlights include:

Amos Roach and the Murrundaya Yepengna Dancers (Dance of Life, Djab Wurrung language) will perform and teach local traditional Kulin Nations dances that are dynamic, fun, educational and interactive. Tuesday 5 July.

The Space Dance and Arts Centre presents a Hip Hop workshop for children aged 5 to 7and 8 to 10, where they will teach children new skills, give them a platform to freely express themselves through movement, and encourage exploration of dance and creativity through this popular style. Thursday 7 July.

St Martins Youth Arts Centre – Paper People World allows children to create their own characters and then create perfect costumes for them (completely out of paper) before they enter the world of Paper People! Paper People World is a workshop suitable for children 5 to 8 and 9 to 12. Thursday 7 July.

Roola Boola Children's Arts Festival will also feature free events at Chapel off Chapel, including colouring in and sustainable puppet making workshops with Trash Puppets. There will also be other events in Stonnington at various satellite venues such as Fizz KidzThe Space Dance Arts Centre and Duldig Studio.

the nitty gritty

Festival runs from June 28 - July 8

Venues:
Chapel off Chapel
12 Little Chapel St, Prahran

Presented in partnership with City of Stonnington

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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Jacqui Kavanagh Jacqui Kavanagh

I SEE YOU LIKE THIS: An experience for children and their parents by Jessica Wilson with Matilda Woodroofe.

How does your child see you? In this unique hands-on experience children will become the art director of a creative portrait of their parent.

How does your child see you? With our ever-growing appetite to document our lives through photos and selfies, children are so often the reluctant subjects of their parents’ cameras — asked to smile, look natural, look that way, and come closer.

In this unique hands-on experience children will become the art director of a creative portrait of their parent.  With an exciting selection of materials and objects, the child uses their adult or parent’s face as the canvas for a unique, and often bizarre, portrait.

Once complete the parent/child pair move to the studio area where a photo is taken using your own phone or camera. SNAP. This amazing portrait is yours to keep.

Presented as part of the Glen Eira Storytelling Festival (18 June – 2 July).

Suitable for children aged five to 12 and parents. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Tickets: $5 per pair, bookings required.

the nitty gritty
Sessions:

Thursday 30 June: 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm

Friday 1 July: 10am, 11am, 12pm, 2pm and 3pm

All sessions run 50 minutes.

Glen Eira Town Hall — Auditorium, corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield

Presented in partnership with Glen Eira

To learn more about our partnership content at Mamma Knows Melbourne, click here.

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