local parent/carer groups & activities

For more information about the Pinarc Parent Support Program, Peer Support Groups, Individual Support for families or to register for a group, contact Rebecca Paton rpaton@pinarc.org.au  or phone 0493 765 542

  • Ballarat Parent Carers Connect This group is open to all parent/guardian carers of children and young adults with disabilities.  We meet for activities, information sessions and social coffees or meals.
  • Ararat Carers Group is looking for new members. Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au for more information.
  • Ballarat Autism Early Years Connect is a parent-led group supported by the Pinarc Parent Support Program. This group is for parents/carers supporting young children (0 – 7 yrs) with autism.
    This group usually meets 10am on the first Tuesday of the month. The next meeting is 10am Tuesday 6th August.
  • Ballarat Autism Parent Connection meets for coffee at the Robin Hood Hotel (Urban Bar) for social connection and information sharing. The next meeting for the Ballarat Autism Parent Connection Group is 10am Monday 22nd July.
  • Bacchus Marsh Disability Parent Connection meet for social dinners and information sessions monthly on Monday evenings during school terms. The next get together is Monday 29th Contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register.
  • Ballarat Down Syndrome Parent Connection group meets regularly for social connection and information sharing. Contact Wendy by email park@bigpond.com or Mob 0429109692.
  • Daylesford Autism Parent Connection Group new group welcoming new members. The next meeting will be 10am Thursday 18th July at HARVEST CAFE DAYLESFORD 29 Albert Street, Daylesford, Please contact rpaton@pinarc.org.au to register your interest.
  • SCODA – (Supporting Carers of Disabled Adults), is a Ballarat-based group who meet for lunch first Monday of each month. Contact Rose on 0459 216 992

Would you like to start a new group? Our parent support coordinator can help. Please contact Rebecca Paton, on 53291361 or at rpaton@pinarc.org.au.

carer events

Pinarc Support for Carers – Halls Gap Zoo

Families will drive themselves to Halls Gap Zoo. On arrival families will be greeted by Pinarc staff. A number of Pinarc Support Workers will be ‘floating’ during the day to assist with supervision and support for children and adults with a disability.
After spending the morning enjoying the surroundings and watching the animals, we will eat lunch together, snacks and drinks will be provided. Please bring your own lunch. We will meet in one of the under cover areas for lunch at 12.00pm
Accessible bathroom available – adult change table not available.
When:  Sunday 21st July, from 10am – spend an hour or the whole day.
Lunch: 12.00pm.    Staff will be available to support 10am to 2pm
Where: Halls Gap Zoo 4061 Ararat, Halls Gap Road, Victoria 3381
Cost:  Free- No Cost. $20 fuel voucher per family available if requested.
BYO lunch – snacks provided
How do I register:
Call Reception on 1800 746 272 or register with Admin on 5320 1300
Registrations close 10am Friday 12th of July.  Must RSVP to attend.

Villa Maria Support for Carers Events

–     Ararat Carers Support Group Afternoon Tea.   Last Monday of the Month 1pm-4pm
–    Ballarat Resin Earring Making Workshop, Friday 19th July,
–    Ararat Pamper Massage Day, Monday 22nd July
–     Ballarat Massage Pamper Spa Day Thursday 29th August
To register call intake on 1300 698 624 or email:  hello@vmch.com.au

activities for children and young people with disabilities

Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo 2024

The Ballarat Jobs & Training Expo is a careers, training and skills Expo that will host over 100 organisations and employers. Industries represented will include training and employment pathway opportunities within Ballarat and surrounding areas. All designed to support and engage our community.
Friday July 26th – The Goods Shed & Civic Hall. 9:30am – 3:30pm
Saturday July 27th – The Goods Shed,10:00am- 2:00pm
Your ticket gives you access to both days and both venues.
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ballarat-jobs-training-expo-2024-tickets-844104448127

BALLARAT AUTISM FEST 24

Presented by Ballarat Autism Network
10am to 3pm Sunday 25th August
Ballarat Neighbourhood Centre 11 Tuppen Drive Sebastopol, Vic
FACEPAINTING, PETTING ZOO, LEGO CORNER, SENSORY SPACE, BRACELET MAKING & MORE
Free Classes available: Toastie Cooking Class with Tim Bone and Southern Cross Martial Arts ClassTim’s Cooking Class Ages 10-17 10.30am

  • Martial Art’s Class Ages 4-7 10.30am
  • Tim’s Cooking Class Ages 18+ 12.30pm
  • Martial Art’s Class Ages 8-11 11.30am
  • Martial Art’s Class Ages 12-15 12.30pm
  • Martial Art’s Class Ages 16+ 1.30PM

Tickets for classes are free but bookings essential via:
https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1241510
Further Info Contact us at admin@ballaratautism.com

Autism Camp Australia – whole family camps

These camps run full programs for children with autism, siblings and parents.
Vic Camps, Queenscliff

  • 21st Sep 2024 – 26th September 2024
  • 30th September 2024 – 5th October 2024

For more information and bookings visit: https://www.autismcampaustralia.org/

 Friends and Me Activities and Camps
Friends & Me offer a range of day, overnight and multinight adventures for people with disabilities aged 14+.
Upcoming activities:
Wed 3rd July     Queen Vic Night Market
Fri 5th July         Disney on Ice
Sat 6th July        10 Pin Bowling/Games Arcade
Sun 16th July     ACMI
Wed 10th July   Melbourne Museum
Sat 13th July      Jukes Karaoke at Crown Casino
Sun 14th July     Cosentino Decennium 2.0 Crown Casino
Sat 20th July      Bounce and Burgers Bendigo
Sun 21st July      Tuki Trout Farm
Sat 27th July      The Great Ocean Road Wildlife Park
Sun 28th July     Mystery Day
UPCOMING CAMPS:
Snow Camp                      Fri 16th – Sun 18th August
Gold Coast Camps           Mon 14th – Fri 18th Oct & Mon 21st – Fri 25th Oct
Ocean Cruise                   Fri 27th – Mon 30th December
MAXIMUM 8 PARTICIPANTS PER OUTING
For more information contact Rachel Messer  0428 586 241,  rach.l.messer@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/groups/691163459160108

The Ballarat Library is now open

The redeveloped Ballarat Library at Doveton Street is now open to the public. Pop in and explore the brand-new spaces and don’t forget to check out the Kids section.
Ballarat Library Opening hours
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday – 9.30am-6pm
Wednesday – 9.30am-7pm
Saturday – 9.30am-4pm
Sunday – 1pm-4pm
They also have a wide range of activities, workshops and information sessions available here:
https://ticketing.humanitix.com/tours/ballarat-libraries

Ballarat Libraries’ Lego Club.

Ages 8+   Lego Club will feature a series of themed challenges that you will complete using Lego blocks and a lot of imagination.   Learn and play Together
Enjoy exploring and discovering together. All sessions for children under 12 are designed to be co-learning activities where parents and carers participate as core support for their child.
Wed 3rd Jul 2024, 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
Wed 7th Aug 2024, 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
Book here: https://events.humanitix.com/lego-club-winter-2024

 

The Ballarat Bulldogs Football Netball Club

provides an inclusive environment for people with an intellectual disability to play the sport they love in an environment that fosters fun, fitness, and friendship.  Netball training takes place on Tuesdays at Ballarat Netball Centre, from 6pm – 7pm.
Football training takes place on Wednesdays at White Flat Oval from 5.30pm – 6.30pm.
If interested in playing or volunteering at the club, reach out via email at ballarat@fida.org.au  or simply head down to training to meet the coaches and team.

 All Abilities Gymnastics

Ballarat Gympsports has expanded it’s offerings and introduced a pathway for all participants through their inclusive programs.
More Information https://www.ballaratgymsports.com/classes/inclusion/

Special Olympics Ballarat

Special Olympics Ballarat has aquatics, basketball, equestrian, golf, gymnastics, and tenpin bowling programs that run throughout each school term. Find Out More https://www.specialolympics.com.au/ballarat

 Basketball Ballarat  All Abilities Hoops

Learn to play Basketball, make new friends and get active through All Abilities Hoops.  An inclusive introductory basketball program for children and teens living with a disability run by Ballarat Basketball.  The term 3 program begins on Thursday August 1st, and is held at Ballarat Minerdome and will run for 7 weeks from 4pm – 4.45pm.
Basketball Ballarat is offering an introduction to basketball program for girls aged 4-9 years old that provides children with a fun and safe basketball experience whilst teaching the fundamentals of the sport.
The term 3 program will begin on Wednesday July 31st and will run from 4pm – 4.45pm at Selkirk Stadium, Wendouree. Discover More https://www.ballaratbasketball.com/all-abilities-hoops/

Ballarat Netball Association   All Abilities Netball

Ballarat Netball Association is proud to offer all-abilities netball during the school terms in 2024.  All-abilities netball is an inclusive program for people aged 16+ with an intellectual disability. More Information https://ballaratnetball.weebly.com/contact.html

AAA Play Website

Sports Central promote inclusive sport and recreation programs within the Central Highlands region through the AAA Play website https://www.aaaplay.org.au/
If you need support regarding inclusive sport and recreation or you wish to share information through this platform please contact Sports Central on info@sportscentral.org.au or 5331 6966.

Sports Central – Opportunities for the whole family to get active

Social Badminton: Ladies Social Tuesdays 6.30pm, Social Doubles Wednesdays 7.30pm Wendy on 0458372906, or visit https://www.ballaratbadminton.com/index.php/about/social-nights  for more information.
Social Pickleball
is a paddleball sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Social pickleball takes place at the following times:

  • Mondays 7.15pm: Doubles Social Team Competition
  • Wednesdays 10.30am: Come and Try/Social Session
  • Wednesdays 7.15pm: Double Social Team Competition
  • Thursdays 10.30am: Come and Tyr/Social Session
  • Thursdays 7pm: Come and Try/Social Session

For more information, https://www.ballaratbadminton.com/index.php/pickleball or call 0353394601.

Bushwalking  https://www.bboc.com.au/

Social Cycling  https://www.cyclingballarat.com.au/group-rides.html

BMX:  https://www.cyclingballarat.com.au/bmx.html   Alternatively you can check out their facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/ballaratsebastopolbmxclub

Tennis: https://play.tennis.com.au/mtprospecttennis Or contact James on 0422 607 224

Disc Golf: https://www.ballarataquaticcentre.com/visit/disc-golf/

Walking Groups: https://walking.heartfoundation.org.au/

  • BCH Lucas Explorers Walking Group – 10am Thursdays.
  • Indoor Walking Group & Cuppa – 10am Tuesdays.
  • Stockland’s Indoor Walking Group – 8am Tuesday & Thursdays.
  • Lake Esmond Walking Group – 10.45am Wednesdays.
  • Lake Walk & Cuppa Walking Group – 10am Fridays.
  • Victoria Park Walking Group – 9:30am Saturdays.

 

information sessions, courses and webinars

NDIS Plan Reassessment – ACD Webinar

By Association for Children with a Disability
Online  Mon, 15 Jul 2024 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM AEST
If your child’s NDIS Plan Reassessment is coming up, this workshop will explain the terminology and useful information to help you get the most from your reassessment meeting. Content is intended for families of children with disability in Victoria only. This workshop looks at:

  • Preparing for a reassessment meeting
  • Gathering supporting evidence
  • Advocating for your child’s needs
  • Preparing for a reassessment meeting

Bookings are essential: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/association-for-children-with-a-disability-7575063849

CAFS Early Help –  single session groups running in Term 3 2024

  1. Fussy Eating – July 30 10:30am-12pm
  2. Infant and Child First Aid – August 13 10am-1:30pm (child friendly session at a new location!)
  3. Infant and Child First Aid – September 17 10:30am-2pm

Also: Circle of Security, Tuning in to Teens, Solihull Understanding your Baby and Connect Play Thrive (NEW)!
More information email family.support@cafs.org.au
Eligibility criteria: Families with children pre-birth up to 17 years old.
Location of service delivery: Ballarat, Ararat, Moorabool, Pyrenees, Hepburn

Bryce Pace Understanding Autism workshops

Through these workshops you will have the opportunity to explore the topics of Autism, Neurodiversity and learn how you can make your business and community more autism friendly.
Whether you are a business owner, tourism operator, DES provider or community member, these workshops are not to be missed. Tickets are on sale now, limited spots available!
Cost $50
Sessions:             Tue 16th July: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
Wed 17th July: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
For more information and to register head to: https://www.brycepaceautismadvocate.com/events

 Baby and Child FIRST AID FREE!

Presented by CAFS Early Help Group Programs
This Program is for parents/carers of babies and children. We are offering places for any parent/guardian free of charge.  The group explores First Aid techniques delivered by professionals. PAEDS vision is to empower all individuals with the knowledge to confidently manage illness and accidents! Issues we will explore include burns, head injury rash, choking, breaks, CPR and more!
Group Day – 17th of September 2024
Group Time – 10.30AM – 2PM
Location: 515 Chisholm Street, Ballarat
Tickets available now! https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/child-infant-first-aid-free-presented-by-paeds-education-tickets-923315069227   Future sessions also available!

Villa Maria Carer Online Sessions
To register call (03) 8595 2405 or email:  carersevents@vmch.com.au

Weekly Evening Relaxation Tue 16 July, 7:10pm – 8:00pm
Make time for you once a week to wind down and relax with meditation facilitator Barbara.
Book Club Online Wed 24 July, 1:00pm – 2:30pm
Each month we will read a book, then get together for a casual chat on Zoom.
Declutter Your Life Workshop Fri 26 July, 10:00am – 11:00am
This two-part online workshop is tailored to empower carers through organisation. The workshops aim to address managing responsibilities more effectively with the belief that effective organisation significantly alleviates stress and enhances self-care.
Muse Meetings Tue 13 August, 2:00pm – 3:00pm
In these three Muse Meetings, Jess will share some creative inspiration, followed by a short journaling exercise to spark your own creativity.

new services for families

The Triple P Programs

are available at: Happier, healthier, less stressed kids & families | Triple P (triplep-parenting.net.au)

  • Triple P Online – to support parents of children up to 12 years confidently handle everyday parenting challenges
  • Triple P Online for Baby – to support parents create a positive foundation right from the start
  • Fear-Less Triple P Online – to support parents build resilience in children and help them manage anxiety
  • NEW Family Transitions Triple P Online – to support parents as they support their child through separation or divorce.

Happy Days Dental Hygiene Home Visit Service

The purpose of Happy Days Dental Hygiene is simply to make dental healthcare more accessible to everyone.
Our services cater for those people that cannot easily travel to visit a dental clinic, by visiting you in your home instead. All services are provided by an AHPRA registered Dental Hygienist.  All mobile dental services offered are geared towards the prevention of serious dental disease, helping to guide patients towards maintaining healthy mouths by building healthy habits and education. Happy Days Dental Hygiene (hddh.com.au)

Grampians Health Early Parenting Centre

Providing support to families of children aged 0 -4 years, this centre was officially opened on April 16th. They are now in the process of beginning service provision, offering day stays and group activities during the first few months. Overnight stays will commence in the coming months when the centre is fully operational.   More information here: https://www.bhs.org.au/services-and-clinics/community-services/grampians-early-parenting-centre/

 

NDIS updates for families

New NDIS Enquiries, Feedback and Complaints policy

The new Enquiries, Feedback and Complaints policy lets you know what to expect when you submit an enquiry, feedback or complaint. We want you to feel safe and supported to share your issues with us and know that they will be handled appropriately.
How to enquire, provide feedback or make a complaint about the NDIS:

 

research and feedback opportunities

My Accessibility Review – City of Ballarat

The My Accessibility Review project seeks to better understand any barriers to engaging in Council programs. This is your opportunity to let us know how we can better meet the needs of children and young people with disability. The project is now recruiting participants aged up to 18 years.
What’s involved?

  • The child or young person with disability and their carer will get a special mission – attend one or more of Council’s creative programs and report back about their full experience. Let us know what was good, what was hard and what could make it better.
  • Participants can report back their own way independently or with the support of their parent/caregiver. Use the template, record a message or video, take photos, draw a picture, have a conversation or something different – it’s up to you.
  • It’s free and participants will be reimbursed for their time. All participants will receive two free tickets to attend the program, one for themselves and one for their parent or caregiver.
  • There is an exciting mix of programs to attend. They will be held at the Library, Civic Hall, Her Majesty’s, the Art Gallery and more locations.

Keen to be involved?  Complete the Expression of Interest form to register.
Questions?  Email hsplanning@ballarat.vic.gov.au or phone 5320 5500.

Recruiting families for Research Project

Deakin University is interested in exploring the parent-child relationship through play within the autism community. We are looking for parents of children aged between 1.5 years and 5 years, with diagnosed or suspected autism.   Parents will be required to attend a 1.5hour/week FREE parent training play program over 4 consecutive weeks in Ballarat (Victoria).  Project to commence from July 2024.   For more information see https://redcap.link/0d83nvbx   

Gender and Autism Diagnosis – Why are more boys diagnosed than girls?

The study has ethics approval from Griffith University and is open to parents/carers of Autistic youth (aged 12 to 25) living in Australia who received an autism diagnosis at or after age 12.
Parents/carer participants will be asked to complete an online survey about their child’s very early development and their experiences in obtaining a diagnosis for their child. The survey will take a

Ballarat Council Community Consultations

https://mysay.ballarat.vic.gov.au/

Current issues open for consultation include:

  • Ballarat’s Open Spaces
  • Planning for our footpaths
  • Social and Affordable Housing
  • Ballarat’s Growth Areas Framework Plan
  • Neighbourhood Parks Program
  • Macarthur Street Streetscape Improvements
  • Ballarat West Review
  • Eureka Gardens Conservation Management

 

new resources for families of children with disabilities

ACD Fact Sheet: Behaviour support in your child’s NDIS Plan

If your child has behaviour that is challenging to manage, you may be able to get support through your child’s NDIS Plan
Behaviour-support-in-your-childs-NDIS-Plan-131123.pdf (acd.org.au)

Respite care: Raising Children Network resources:

Respite care for children with disability, autism or other additional needs https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/therapies-services/support/respite-care
Respite care: planning and preparing children with disability, autism or other additional needs https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/therapies-services/support/respite-care-preparing-children-disability-autism-additional-needs

Youngcare’s At Home Care Grants – July 2024 National Round

At Home Care Grants – Youngcare
Applications Open: 3 July 2024
Mark the date in your diary because in just one week, applications will open for people aged 16-65 with permanent high physical care needs who require funding for equipment, home modifications and essential support.  Grants of up to $10,000 are available and could fund items that cannot be funded elsewhere (including the NDIS). The grants will close 4pm, 15 August 2024. For more information visit the website or download the information booklet. If you are unsure about whether you can apply or not, please contact Youngcare Connect.

Autism: What Next? Website

Autism: What Next? is a simple but comprehensive resource to help you find out about autism. You decide how you want to use it.  You can start by answering a short questionnaire should only take 2-3 minutes and then it will help direct you on the right pathway for you and the best place to begin.

https://www.autismwhatnext.com.au/

 

supports for families of children with disabilities

Carer Gateway 

Caring for a friend or relative can be complicated. Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au/

Victorian Government Carer Card

The card provides discounts and benefits to carers in acknowledgement of this contribution. It’s easy and free to apply for the Carer Card. Applications can be made online. Alternatively, forms can be downloaded from this site, or you can request that one be posted to you by telephoning the Carer Card team on 1800 901 958 (toll free). Applications may take four to six weeks to process. www.carercard.vic.gov.au/

EACH Statewide Carer Support Services

EACH can fund counselling for carers and other family members (not just the primary carer, including siblings and grandparents) They can also fund ongoing counselling sessions if Carer Gateway funding runs out. www.each.com.au

Association for Children with a Disability

Resources: www.acd.org.au/information-and-resources/
Free telephone information and support:
Call 03 9880 7000 or 1800 654 013 (regional)
Or email acdsupport@acd.org.au
Or text 0475 577 997

young carers supports

Carer Allowance vs Carer Payment: which one is for you?

https://www.acd.org.au/carer-allowance-vs-carer-payment-which-one-is-for-you/

Little Dreamers – Sibling supports

Young Carer organisation, working with young people who provide unpaid care for a family member with a disability, illness or addiction across a range of direct support programs, these programs can be found here: www.littledreamers.org.au/programs/ A link for the application for support can be found at www.dreamershub.com.au

Carer Gateway Young Carer Supports

Carer Gateway can provide a range of supports to unpaid carers (including siblings as young carers). Call to register: 1800 422 737 8am to 6pm weekdays www.carergateway.gov.au

school holiday programs and activities (disability specific)

Rivergum Support Holiday Program (Ages 7-17 yrs)

July 2024 School Holiday Program is now open for expressions of interest.
Our school holiday program is run from our Maryborough Office and we offer pickup and drops for Ballarat residents.   For details and to register visit https://rivergumsupport.net.au/event/jnrs-jul-2024-shp/

Ballarat Specialist School TheirCare School Holiday Program

Location 25 Gillies Street N, LAKE GARDENS VIC 3350
Call 0417 007 714
More information or bookings:
https://theircare.com.au/holiday-programs/ballarat-specialist-school/

Beyond Disability Services Childrens School Holiday Program

01st – 12th JULY 2024
Hours: 09:00am – 05:00pm  (Shorter session times available upon request)
What to Bring! Lunch, snacks & water bottle.
BACCHUS MARSH LOCATION
Art Therapy, Community Access, Sensory Room, Art & Craft, Interactve Sports, Gaming, Music Therapy.
Contact  Phone: 0491 086 009
Marina Ivelja: marina@beyonddisabilityservices.com.au
Kathy Kanati: kathy@beyonddisabilityservices.com.au
$5 Out of Pocket Expenses – Program

People Outdoors upcoming camps

School holidays:  9th – 12th July,  4 night camp at Halls Gap (6-17 yrs)
Full list of upcoming camps: https://www.peopleoutdoors.org.au
For bookings and enquiries contact sandra@auscamps.asn.au

Unbeatable Abilities Holiday Program

Kids program ages 5-13, Teens ages 14-18, Bookings are Essential
*All Participants will need to be dropped off at or before 9am and picked up at our HUB part 1 Number 3 Humffray Street North Bakey Hill.  Please let them know in advance if you require drop off and pick up for your child.
For all enquires please call our office on 03 43271322 and we will be happy to assist you.
https://www.unbeatableabilities.com.au/

Ballarat Winter Festival
– accessibility information https://www.ballaratwinterfestival.com.au/access

school holiday programs and activities (mainstream)

Mainstream OSHC School Holiday Programs

For children 12 or under, they can also access mainstream holiday programs and they can apply to have extra supports in place (for no additional cost).  Child Care benefit will cover most of the cost – NDIS may cover the gap.
Local Mainstream Providers:
Camp Australia School Holiday Programs “Rocketeers”
Camp Australia runs school holiday programs at Pleasant St Primary School, Canadian Lead and Ballarat Grammar.
https://www.campaustralia.com.au/holidayclubs
YMCA School holiday programs
Alfredton, Our Lady Help Of Christians Wendouree,  Ararat, Maddingley, Woodlea,.
https://yballarat.org.au/oshc/vacation-care-programs/

Kelly Sports July HOLIDAY PROGRAM 2024

Eastwood Leisure Centre, 20 Eastwood Street, Ballarat 3350
Starting Monday 1st July
Concluding Friday 12th July
Kinder to Grade 6
Cost: $60 per child per day ($275 for a full week)
We are open from 8am and close at 5pm but kids can be dropped-off and picked-up anytime in-between.
For any queries please call Dom on 0417 967 621
https://www.kellysports.com.au/kelly_events/view/32023

Ballarat Aquatic and Leisure Centre

The Winter School Holiday Program will run from 2-12 July and include 3 Day Intensive Swim & Survive program and gymnastics classes for all ages.
school-holiday-program-brochure-winter-2024_web.pdf (ballarataquaticcentre.com)

Ballarat Libraries School Holiday Activities

Ballarat Libraries are running a wide range of activities for children and adults.
WhatsOnWinter2024_Web.pdf (centralhighlandslibraries.org.au)

Pinot and Picasso

Kids sessions during the school holidays.
https://www.pinotandpicasso.com.au/ballarat/

Stockland Wendouree Winter Holiday Events

Suitable for children between 4-10 yrs old.
Free Craft activities 11am-2pm daily
Outside Woolworths Walk-ins welcome, no bookings required.
Winter Scavenger Hunt! Receive a BONUS cookie from Ferguson Plarre. Follow the simple steps below:

  1. Collect your winter scavenger hunt form from event staff, outside Woolworths.
  2. Participants will need to search for the 6 winter treasures around the centre.
  3. Once you have found all the winter treasures and filled in your form with their location head to Ferguson Plarre to receive your BONUS prize!

Visit the Stockland website for more information > https://www.stockland.com.au/shopping-centres/centres/stockland-wendouree/offers-and-events/events/2024/winterful-world-of-fun

Cave Hill Creek : Winter Camp

08 Jul – 12 Jul
Winter School Holiday Camps in Victoria – Cave Hill Creek
Have a go at awesome outdoor activities: splash in a canoe, ride a bike in the forest and shoot some archery. Stand atop your crate stack tower and fly on the possum glider! Hang out around the camp fire, climb a mountain, go on a night walk, toast marshmallows around the campfire and build friendships. It’s one giant sleepover full of friends and adventure! Winter campers receive a complimentary camp hoodie. This camp is suitable for children aged 8-14.

 

Ballarat Winter Festival Family Friendly Events
More information and bookings here:
Family Friendly – Ballarat Winter Festival

WINTER WONDERLIGHTS   28 Jun – 21 Jul – Session times vary.
Experience the sound, lights and wintry delights at Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights.

POP-UP ICE RINK  29 Jun – 21 Jul  9:00am – 10:00pm
Ballarat ice skating tickets are on sale now:  Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Rink | Ballarat Winter Festival Ice Rink, (starsonice.com.au)

FROZEN KINGDOM AT KRYAL CASTLE  22 Jun – 21 Jul  10:00am – 4:00pm
The Kingdom of Kryal has been overrun by an eternal winter since the evil snow Queen Neva took the throne 25 years ago. Can the heroic knights of Kryal Castle banish the Queen and restore the kingdom to its former glory?

BREAKFAST WITH THE TIGERS  29 Mar – 30 Jun  10:00am – 10:20am
Join the keepers at Ballarat Wildlife Park for a keeper talk at the tiger sanctuary.

CANDLELIGHT: BEST OF HANS ZIMMER AND MORE  13 Jul  6:00pm – 7:00pm
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before.

CANDLELIGHT: TRIBUTE TO QUEEN  13 Jul  8:00pm – 9:00pm
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience to awe-inspiring locations like never seen before…

JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN AT CRESWICK MILL 01 Jul – 14 Jul  10:00am – 3:00pm
Visit Creswick Woollen Mills and join Creswick farmers for feeding times – 11:00am and 3:00pm daily. Enjoy colouring in and craft activities for the kids. Shop exclusive in-store offers and grab your family happy snap with Billy The Kid!

GRUG : PRESENTED BY WINDMILL THEATRE COMPANY 19 Jul  11:00am – 12:00pm
Stunning design and beautiful live puppetry combine to bring Ted Prior’s iconic picture book character to the stage in a smash-hit production that sees audiences join Grug on some of his most exciting adventures.

BADGE MAKING 15 May – 12 Jul  Session times vary
Come along to TBH Studio and make your own badges with Holly Would, in a safe, friendly environment.

BALLARAT LIBRARIES WORKSHOPS
– MAKE YOUR OWN DOG TOY WORKSHOP    04 Jul  10:00am – 12:00pm
– MAKE YOUR OWN FOOTY WORKSHOP FOR KIDS   03 Jul   10:00am – 12:00pm
– MAKE YOUR OWN CAT TOY WORKSHOP   04 Jul  11:00am – 12:00pm

WINTER WONDERLAND AT GO KARTS & LASERFORCE  29 Jun – 14 Jul  9:30am – 6:00pm
Experience the ultimate winter adventure at Ballarat Indoor Go Karts & Laserforce, where fun and excitement are guaranteed.

WINTER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AT MAZE HOUSE   29 Jun – 14 Jul  10:00am – 4:30pm
Maze House is open every day in the Winter School Holidays.

Winter School Holidays at the Eureka Centre.

Winter Themed Peg Magnets   Wednesday, 3 July
Led by teachers, this activity is suitable for all ages but does require parental supervision. Workshops run for one hour; children can stay for the full session or any portion of time.
Tickets $10    Workshops run for one hour beginning at 10am and 11am.
Book here: Winter Themed Peg Magnets: Winter School Holidays at the Eureka Centre. Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite

School Holidays at The Art Club Hub

80 Bridge Mall, Ballarat.
Casual Canvas Sessions are just $28pp and include your choice of canvas design, paint, brushes, apron and an Art Coach on hand to answer any questions you have.   Pre-book online and we will have your easel ready and waiting for you. Or you can simply show up and try your luck.  https://www.theartclubhub.com/school-holiday-workshops

Dinos at the Zoo

Get up close and personal with dinosaurs at the zoo this winter! There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained, with moving dinosaurs, a dino trail, tunnels, fossils and scavenger hunts.
Zoos Victoria has great accessibility features including Changing Places toilets, social scripts, and best of all, zoo staff have had disability inclusion training to help make your visit as easy as possible.
Dinos at the Zoo is running at Healesville Sanctuary, Kyabram Fauna Park, Melbourne Zoo, and Werribee Open Range Zoo. The event runs until 14 July 2024 and is free with Zoo admission.
Zoo admission is free for a parent or carer accompanying a child with disability who has the Child Disability Allowance Health Care Card, plus your Carer (We Care) Card or Companion Card.  https://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne/whats-on/events/dinos-at-the-zoo/

 

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