Things to do on Australia Day
This year Australia Day falls on a Thursday making for a perfect family friendly day out!
Whether you’re planning a BBQ with friends and family or just looking for a fun way to spend the day, there are plenty of activities in the great south east to choose from.
Supporting local businesses on Australia Day is a great way to celebrate, with many offering rich cultural experiences with opportunities to be entertained, to be curious, to learn and to get active!
Here we’ve rounded up our top 5 things to do with the family on Australia Day. From traditional celebrations to exciting outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Sunshine State.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Had to be number one, not only has Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary taken out Best Major Tourist Attraction 2022 at the annual Queensland Tourism Industry Council awards, but it’s celebrating 75 years!
Check off the list of iconic Australian animals with a visit to this Gold Coast attraction. Cuddle a Koala, pat Kangaroos, feed the Lorikeets and you can see the dinosaurs on the extinction trail!
You’ll even discover the rich, ancient culture of the Gold Coast region’s Indigenous people as the Yugumbeh Aboriginal Dancers express their heritage in the Aboriginal Culture Show. Book individual tickets or a family pass for two adults and two children ($169.95) for all day fun and exploration. Suitable for all ages.
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Brisbane locals we believe you are fortunate to play home to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Did you know it’s the oldest and largest koala sanctuary of its kind in the world? Here you can step inside Platypus House, check out owls, kites and sea eagles soar above you at the popular Flight Raptor show plus feed the kangaroos and wallabies. Want to relax and enjoy the day from start to finish?
Have you ever taken the kids on a river tour? This one travels from Brisbane’s Cultural Centre Pontoon past some of Brisbane city’s most historic landscapes, historical home sites and interesting wildlife habitats before reaching Lone Pine. We recommend this one for littles to Primary age. Find out more here. (Bonus! Lone Pine Sanctuary don’t do public holiday surcharges.)
Riverlife
Get your body moving while being surrounded by natural beauty of the Brisbane River and its surrounds or the best of both worlds as you paddle past Brisbane’s hotspots. Start the new year conquering fears and new feats with an Abseil or a more leisurely Kayak Adventure.
Stay on to enjoy some post activity festivities in one of Brisbane’s favourite spots, bike hire, great coffee and music to lift your spirits. This is an awesome outing for those looking to keep tweens and teens off the screens.😉
GoBoat
Who doesn’t love getting out on the water at this time of year? The weather is shaping up to be a beauty! For many of us it’s not often we get the opportunity to skipper your own boat, but this is it!
Round up your crew of up to 8 family, frends and even fur babies and cruise away departing from Breakfast Creek. A fun adventure for all ages looking for a more social outing. Pack your gourmet picnic and bevies for this one! Bookings still available here.
The Ginger Factory
Last but certainly not least is a day out on the Sunshine Coast in Yandina. Recently inducted into the Sunshine Coast Business Awards Hall of Fame, this attraction is a treasure for those with a family of children under 10 years of age.
With FREE entry you’ll be able to take the little ones on The Gruffalo Trail, explore the colourful Rainbow Project and enjoy the playgrounds. You’ll also find fun rides like a trip on Moreton the much loved ginger train. With delicious dining options, tours and tastings, there really is something for everyone.
*Photo: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary – Kangaroo feeding with keeper and children.
