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 Trace Australia's sporting traditions |
Melbourne Cricket Ground, Jolimont Melbourne, VIC 3002 Australia +61 3 9657 8861 http://www.mcg.org.au/ |
The Australian Gallery of Sport preserves records of the country's sporting heroes, from Olympians and footballers, to the great Aussie cricketer Sir Donald Bradman. Australian Rules football fans can take part in interactive displays to test their knowledge, and patriotic sports lovers can browse the memorabilia of Australia's Olympians - in the same stadium that hosted the 1956 Games. The permanent exhibitions include the Cricket Hall of Fame, Aussie Rules Football Exhibition and the Olympic Museum. The gift shop sells sporting souvenirs and literature. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 History and outdoor fun in Frankston |
Cranbourne Road Frankston Melbourne, VIC 3199 Australia +61 (0)3 9789 5529 http://www.walkabout.com.au/th... |
Today Ballam Park is smack bang in the middle of a Frankston housing estate, but when it was built in the 1840s, the homestead and grounds would have been quite isolated and needed to be self-sufficient. It even had its own blacksmith. The French style house and outbuildings are worth a visit if you are there on a Sunday. Keep an eye out for the famous ghosts. In Ballam Park itself you will find two wonderful adventure playgrounds (designed for different age groups), sports grounds and a picnic area with electric barbecues. Admission: Homestead: Adults AUD5; Children AUD2. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Outdoor treasure in the west |
Off Keilor Park Drive Keilor Melbourne, VIC 3033 Australia http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
Allow lots of time to enjoy this park and bring your bikes or walking shoes to really make the most of it. Set in a bend of the Maribyrnong River, the park encompasses the Kulin wetlands (named after the original Aboriginal inhabitants), and the historic Dodds Homestead as well as several picnic and barbecue areas. The Visitors' Centre has lots of information on the park's history and facilities and also houses a kiosk. On weekends and school holidays the Hedgend Maze is open. Also worth visiting is Horseshoe Bend Farm, which is adjacent to, but not directly accessible from, Brimbank Park. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hubert Dumas  |
 Photo: Hubert Dumas |
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For Thomas the Tank Engine fans of all ages |
434 Belgrave-Hallam Road Narre Warren North Melbourne, VIC 3804 Australia +61 3 9796 8481 |
Built with loving detail by Colin and Nancy Campbell, this 20 acre property is worth seeing and is sure to delight Thomas the Tank Engine fans of any age. Riding on little trains, you pass through an ever changing landscape of lakes, hills and forests of pines and willows. Steam, hydraulic and petrol locomotives are all represented and if you run into Colin or Nancy, they will love to have a chat about how they created the place. Admission: Short ride (six minutes) AUD3; long ride (16 minutes) AUD4. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For little equestrians |
Beaconsfield Parade St Kilda Melbourne, VIC 3182 Australia |
If your child is going through the 'wanna ride on a pony' stage, this might be a good place to see how they like it, before you sign up for serious lessons. The pony rides have been a fixture in St Kilda's Catani Gardens for many years so the animals are gentle with their little riders. Children under 10 will probably get the most enjoyment out of it, but there is plenty for the rest of the family to do along the St Kilda foreshore area. Admission: Ride only AUD2; ride and photo AUD7. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 All creatures great and small |
Ferntree Gully Road Scoresby Melbourne, VIC 3179 Australia +61 3 9763 1588 |
All the fun of the farm is on display here and children are welcome to get involved. There are hayrides, cows to milk, baby lambs to feed and sheep shearing to watch. As well as the usual farm animals and the cute, tiny versions in the baby animal nursery, you can see buffalo, camels, alpacas, emus and other more unusual species. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Colin Charles |
 Hands-on farm for city kids |
St Helliers Street Abbotsford Melbourne, VIC 3067 Australia +61 3 9417 5806 http://www.farm.org.au/ |
Located only five kilometres from the city centre, this farm gives urban kids a real hands-on country experience. Cows, pigs, horses, chickens, lambs and even a donkey are all there large as life and just as smelly! It is a great opportunity to show your little ones where milk and eggs come from before they get to the supermarket shelves. Farm staff are happy to answer questions and will let children touch most of the animals. There is a kiosk or you can bring a picnic lunch. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: GC Man |
 Photo: lady_raglan |
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Making history fun |
Corner Bramham Drive and Plenty Road Bundoora Melbourne, VIC 3083 Australia +61 (0)3 9462 4079 |
Youngsters will learn lots here, but they will have heaps of fun too. The area was originally a cattle and racehorse stud on Mt Cooper and has been developed by the local council into a park incorporating a golf course, adventure playground, urban farm and a visitors centre. At the farm, children can take part in milking and feeding the animals and also see how things were done back in the 1870s. An interactive display in the visitors centre goes even further back in Bundoora's history to the Wurundjeri Aboriginal tribe. The adventure playground features environmentally-friendly energy production. Admission: Adults AUD7.50, children AUD5, family AUD20. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Moody |
 Photo: Lian Lu |
 Photo: John Moody |
 A place to fire the imagination! |
39 Gisborne Street, East Melbourne, VIC 3002 Australia +61 3 9662 2907 |
A visit here will delight youngsters who want to grow up to be fire-fighters. The orginal headquarters of the Metropolitan Fire Brigade now houses a display showing the history of fire fighting in Melbourne. Adults too will be interested in the horse drawn manual fire pumps and the old uniforms, helmets and fire engines. The nearby Eastern Hill Fire Station is open to the public 10:30a to 11a on Fridays. This is a display of state-of-the-art fire trucks. Here children can climb on the trucks and see the equipment in action. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Bruce Paroissien |
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Possums and History in the Park |
Wellington Parade Melbourne, VIC 3002 Australia |
Fitzroy Gardens, with their leafy corridors of trees, ferns and flower beds, are one of Melbourne's favourite places. Another attraction is Captain Cook's Cottage (Cook's former home that was transported from Yorkshire, England, and rebuilt here), which displays the history of the famous explorer's life. Children will be delighted by the Fairy Tree, with its cute carvings of fairies and other "wee folk" and the model Tudor village. Evening visitors can even meet the locals—the possumsmdash;who come out to feed at night. The Gardens are free. There's a small charge for Captain's Cook Cottage. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Celine Zheng |
 Photo: Bryan Garnett-Law |
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A fun-filled day out |
Princes Freeway Melbourne, VIC 3813 Australia +61 3 5629 2613 http://www.ozemail.com.au/~gum... |
You know you are approaching Gumbuya Park when you spot the huge, colourful cassowary at the entrance. It is a day trip from Melbourne, but there is plenty to occupy children of all ages. After inspecting Aboriginal artefacts, walking through the aviary and meeting the native animals in the petting zoo, they can go crazy in the amusement park. You can eat in the cafe and ice cream parlour or use the many barbecues and picnic tables scattered around the park. Admission: Adults AUD7.50; children 4-17 years AUD4; seniors & students AUD5; family AUD22; groups need to book in advance. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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An adventure playground for all abilities |
Longstaff Street Kew East Melbourne, VIC 3101 Australia +61 3 9278 4444 |
Hay's Paddock bills itself as the first community playground in Australia designed for children of all physical and intellectual abilities. It certainly provides stimulation for all senses with lots of interesting things to feel and smell: listening tubes, brightly coloured climbing equipment and even a treehouse with pretend binoculars for birdwatching. Some signs are in Braille and there are special swings suitable for disabled children. The playground takes up one corner of a large area of playing fields, bushland and wetlands that are home to many native birds. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All the fun of the farm |
Horseshoe Bend Road Keilor Melbourne, VIC 3036 Australia +61 (0)3 9307 1259 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
An urban farm with lots of animals straight out of the "Old Macdonald" song to delight the little ones. Pigs, chickens, goats, sheep and horses are all there to be patted and admired, while the more mechanically minded young ones can inspect (and climb on) the old tractors and farm equipment. The original farm house has been converted into a tea house and shop, surrounded by a lovely cottage garden. The Farm caters well for groups and can provide pony rides and guided tours by prior arrangement. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fun park with a safety message |
Level 4, Melbourne Central Corner Latrobe & Swanston Streets Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9639 4733 |
Situated on Level 4 of Melbourne Central, this is a great place to take children as a break from the shopping. It is run by the KIDS (Kids in Dangerous Situations) Foundation, a charity with a mission to educate about safety and care for children injured in accidents. KIDS Safety Zone is basically an amusement park with a subtle safety message. Activities include an adventure playground, basketball, table tennis, bumper cars and mini-golf. An ambulance and safety house display cover the educational angle. Groups and parties are welcome and are fully supervised. Admission: Adults AUD5; children AUD8; children for two hours supervised AUD12. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Mini-golf, rock climbing, ropes and more |
363-5 Maroondah Highway Chirnside Park Melbourne, VIC 3116 Australia +61 3 9727 3082 |
Adventure (mini) golf, rock climbing and ropes are the main attractions here. This makes it more an outing for school age children, although younger ones can have a go on the mini-golf with adult supervision. Budding Greg Normans will certainly find plenty of fun and challenge on the two 18-hole courses. For greater physical exertion, visit on the weekend and try rock climbing or the commando-style ropes course which also involves clambering over boulders and tightrope walking. Costs: Adventure Golf (one round): adults AUD9; children AUD6; family AUD14. Rockclimbing: adults AUD9.90; concession AUD7. Ropes course: adults AUD9; juniors AUD6. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A journey into subspace |
Corner Queenswharf Road and King Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9620 0999 http://www.melbourneaquarium.c... |
The world-class Melbourne Aquarium is a fascinating journey into subspace. Ground level houses coral atolls, shadow dwellers and natural born killers from around the world. On level one is the less scary billabong and mangrove swamp, where hands-on activity includes feeding the locals. Subspace 2 is deep sea territory where sharks and other predators prowl inches from your head, literally. The undersea tunnel ends in a theatre and a simulator ride, where you can experience a fish's view of life. Riverside cafes and restaurants provide pleasant views and the gift shop sells 'fishy' memorabilia. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne Museum |
11 Nicholson Street Carlton Melbourne, VIC 3053 Australia +61 3 8341 7777 / +61 3 9651 6136 http://melbourne.museum.vic.go... |
The new Melbourne Museum tags itself as a museum for the 21st century and reflects a move to merge major museums and galleries under one roof. Three particular focal points of the Melbourne Museum are: Bunjilaka, providing a focus for Aboriginal activity in Victoria; the Children's Museum, in the form of a tilted cube, and the open-air Gallery of Life, exhibiting Victoria's flora and fauna. Improved Internet access is also a key feature, providing better public access to superb collections, research, exhibitions and educational packages. Three theme café/restaurants provide refreshments. Admission: Adults AUD6, children & concession free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: 23hours |
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 Photo: Jim Regan, Easey St. |
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Outdoor fun and learning |
182 Kidds Road Doveton Melbourne, VIC 3177 Australia +61 3 9706 9944 |
Set in a lovely wetlands environment close to Dandenong Creek and bike track, Myuna Farm seeks to educate as well as entertain children. An animal display, wetlands walk, education centre and deer and ostrich farms are all very interesting and informative. For the younger ones there is a Thomas the Tank Engine to ride and lots of furry and feathered creatures to pat and feed. There is even a maze if you want the kids to get lost. The farm also provides riding lessons for the disabled. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dale Taylor |
 Photo: Dale Taylor |
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National Gallery of Victoria |
180 St Kilda Road Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 8620 2222 http://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/ |
Located beside the Victorian Arts Centre, the National Gallery of Victoria has been the focus for the local arts community for many years. ts world-renowned collection of European Masters includes Rembrandt, van Dyck, Picasso, Monet and Turner. A fine display of contemporary Aboriginal art sits alongside works by famous Australian artists such as Sidney Nolan, Arthur Boyd and Albert Tucker. The redeveloped gallery will include a new water wall, a Federation Hall and the Grimwade Gardens. It will also boast better physical access, teaching facilities and an improved range of eateries. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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 Photo: Michael Reeve |
 Photo: Graham Doig |
 Photo: Seng Mah |
 Photo: Marcus Kazmierczak |
 Photo: Drew Douglas |
 Photo: Patrick Houlihan |
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 Photo: Mark Radford |
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 Photo: Samantha Kazarinov |
 Photo: Jim Woulfe |
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 Photo: Nancy C. Franchino |
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History, art and gardens |
34 Homestead Road Berwick Melbourne, VIC 3806 Australia +61 (0)3 9702 1919 |
This conglomeration of buildings dating from the 1860s is part museum and part artisans' workshops. The centrepiece Cheese Factory is now used as a conference and exhibition venue. Scattered around it are other buildings such as the Kitchen Washhouse, the Old Church, the Old Shop and the Clarke Pottery Studio. The Berwick District Woodworkers Club also has its home here. Lovely cottage gardens and an adventure playground complete the picture. On Sundays there are often historical re-enactments and special displays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old Melbourne Gaol Crime and Justice Experience |
Russell Street Between Victoria & Latrobe Streets Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 3 9663 7228 http://www.oldmelbournegaol.co... |
Opened in 1841, Victoria's oldest surviving prison housed thousands of inmates over the years, including the infamous Ned Kelly who was hanged here in 1880. The architecture remains untouched, apart from a few modern conveniences. For braver souls, candlelight visits are also available. The gift shop sells a variety of Australian souvenirs as well as Kelly memorabilia. There is also a cafe nearby. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gilmor |
 Photo: Kate McCormack |
 Photo: Max Anderson |
 Photo: Max Anderson |
 Photo: Orsolya Gergely |
 Photo: Nathalie Brouard |
 Photo: Tracie Milner |
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Melbourne's incomplete landmark |
Spring Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 Australia +61 (0)3 9651 8911 http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au |
The Parliament House of Victoria has remained incomplete throughout several decades. This piece of history lacks a dome, northern wing superstructure and a south-eastern basement envisaged in the original design. Nevertheless, it is a significant piece of mid-19th century civic architecture and an important establishment for modern political debate and decision-making. It is also a symbol of parliamentary democracy. Building commenced in 1855. Evidence of the Victorian Gold Rush of that era can be seen in its interior. The elaborate use of gold is a direct result of this important piece of Australian history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Iona Beauly |
 Photo: Katie Hannan |
 Photo: Erik Neumayer |
 Photo: Carol Friesen |
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 Photo: Helen Crosswaite |
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Create your own masterpiece |
54 Burke Road Malvern East Melbourne, VIC 3145 Australia +61 3 9572 2009 http://www.plasterfunhousemalv... |
This is a place for school-age children to explore their artistic side. The idea is that you purchase a plaster form and then let the kids loose with the paints and decorations to create their masterpieces. Smocks, paints, brushes, glaze and finishing touches such as glitter, bows and pompoms are all provided. Staff are on hand to give advice and assistance with glaze and other tricky details, but parents are encouraged to put on smocks and get into it as well. Special arrangements can be made for birthday parties. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Children (and adults) learn through play |
247 Bay Road Sandringham Melbourne, VIC 3191 Australia +61 3 9532 2226 |
This is a good place for active littlies to exhaust themselves and their adult carers too. Playworkz has been designed with safety and learning through play in mind. So, you get the most out of it if you get in there and play with your child. Some activities such as the flying fox, rope climbing and giant swing will definitely need an adult hand. However, if your kids are content to amuse themselves on the cars or climbing equipment, there is a licensed cafe you can retire to for a rest. Admission: Children 2-7 years AUD7; children 8 months to 2 years AUD3.50. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Melbourne's Favourite Tall Ship |
South Wharf Road Southbank Melbourne, VIC 3006 Australia +61 3 9699 9760 http://www.nattrust.com.au/ |
The Belfast-built Polly Woodside ferried coal and nitrate between Europe and South America until 1904 when she was sold to New Zealanders, who renamed her Rona. She then plied the Tasman Sea and Pacific Ocean until being decommissioned and sold to the Australian National Trust. Teams of volunteers lovingly restored her to her former glory and rechristened her Polly Woodside. She now sits in the only wooden dry dock left in the world, and is the centrepiece of the Melbourne Maritime Museum. Facilities include a gift shop, small café, barbecues and picnic areas. NOTE: The museum is currently closed for renovations and will reopen in 2008. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mark Radford |
 Photo: Michael Reeve |
 Photo: Michael Reeve |
 Photo: fishandchinkers |
 Photo: Matthias Barth |
 Photo: Kevin Brewer |
 Photo: James Blackman |
 Photo: Matthias Barth |
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More than just a train ride |
Old Monbulk Road (Belgrave) Melbourne, VIC 3160 Australia +61 (0)3 9754 6800 http://www.puffingbilly.com.au |
The former Ferntree Gully-Gembrook line was reopened in 1962 as a tourist attraction starring Puffing Billy. This much-loved historic steam railway is the only survivor of the narrow-gauge lines that connected country areas to Melbourne in the early 1900s. Billy was restored and is maintained by volunteers. Trains depart regularly from Belgrave Station and travel through quiet ferny dells and across wooden trestle bridges to the beautiful Emerald Lake Park.By night, trains double as luxury diners for a journey into the heart of romance. Charters are also available. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Richard Conn |
 Photo: mayme |
 Photo: Debbie Stockwell |
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Tracing the history of the Royal Australian Air Force |
RAAF Base Williams Point Cook Road Melbourne, VIC 3027 Australia +61 3 9256 1300 / +61 3 9256 1040 http://www.raafmuseum.com.au/ |
Located at the birthplace of the Royal Australian Air Force, the museum incorporates multimedia technology to take visitors from the RAAF's World War I beginnings through to today. As a fully operational flying unit of the RAAF, the museum maintains a fleet of airworthy aircraft, which take to the skies on special days (aircraft include a Mustang, Harvard, Winjeel, Vampire, replica Fokker Triplamce and Sopwith Pup). History buffs will be fascinated by the collection of aircraft, uniforms, posters and other memorabilia on display. Admission is free. Guided tours are available for schools and groups during the week. Advance bookings are essential. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: stuart murdoch |
 Photo: stuart murdoch |
 Photo: Elias P |
 Photo: presentedindoublevis |
 Photo: Elias P |
 Photo: Chuan Chew |
 Photo: Chuan Chew |
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A not so secret garden |
Birdwood Avenue South Yarra Melbourne, VIC 3141 Australia +61 3 9252 2300 http://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/ |
Established in 1846, Melbourne's Royal Botanic Gardens are magnificently landscaped and boast a superb collection of plants from around Australia and the world. Spend a few hours strolling around, observing the beautiful black swans and water birds. Alternatively, join a tour, such as the Aboriginal Heritage Walk or the Night Sky Experience (bookings required). There are special holiday and educational programs for children. Moonlight Cinema takes place nightly during summer. The Plant Craft Cottage sells unique handcrafts and the Observatory Café is great for light refreshments. The more formal Terrace Restaurant is ideal for corporate and private functions. Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: m_l_monschein |
 Photo: Allyson Krieger |
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 Photo: Peter Gawthrop, ARPS |
 Photo: Cristy Weggelaar |
 Photo: Rendy Anthony |
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 Photo: Laureen LaBar |
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When the country comes to town |
Epsom Road (Melbourne Showgrounds) Melbourne, VIC 3032 Australia +1 300 65 6547 http://www.royalshow.com.au |
For generations of Melbourne children, a visit to this show has been the highlight of the September school holidays. This ten-day celebration of all things country is still a firm favourite with city dwellers. There are enough events, art and craft and animal exhibits, dare devil rides and novelty showbags to keep all members of the family happy. Daily events include the Grand Parade of award winning livestock, woodchopping competitions, live music and showjumping. Visit the Web site for further details on tickets and event timings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aron Paul |
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 Photo: © Janine Fabre |
 Photo: Moshe Reuveni |
 Photo: Bianca Smith |
 Photo: Bianca Smith |
 Photo: Chris Annable |
 Photo: Chris Annable |
 Photo: Mat Connolley |
 Photo: Mat Connolley |
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 Photo: Shula Hampson |
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All aboard the train to history |
Bricker Reserve, 128 Rowans Road Moorabbin Melbourne, VIC 3189 Australia +61 (0)3 9553 4037 |
The hissing steam, gleaming engines and tooting horns will appeal to the child in everyone. This miniature railway offers a glimpse back in time to when train travel was an adventure in itself. Two tracks, one elevated and one at ground level wind through a pretty garden setting. The trains are mini versions of the real things and authentic down to the last detail. Visitors can watch the signaling and track switching and find out from the members of the Society how much hard work it takes to get the steam trains running. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art meets nature |
Mount Dandenong Tourist Road Melbourne, VIC 3767 Australia +61 (0)3 9751 1300 http://www.parkweb.vic.gov.au |
This fascinating sanctuary was created by sculptor William Ricketts. Inspired by his travels in Central Australia where he came into contact with the Pitjantjarra and Arrente people, he started to mould ceramic sculptures in the forests around his home depicting the legends of their dreamtime. Today, 92 sculptures are dotted through the undergrowth of the temperate rainforest, often half-buried in ferns or carved out of the earth itself, almost as if they were natural phenomena themselves. The place has a thought-provoking, almost eerie quality. There is a licensed cafe on the premises. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kate Hill |
 Photo: Chris Holttum |
 Photo: Sean & Jennifer Rich |
 Photo: Sean & Jennifer Rich |
 Photo: Craig Kincaid |
 Photo: Craig Kincaid |
 Photo: www.fototheque.com |
 Photo: Mike Lin |
 Photo: Erling Knudsen |
 Photo: Geoffrey Collins |
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 Photo: John, Fiona, Conner & Brian |