Murrindindi Shire Council’s school holiday program has something for everyone aged from 12-25 years.
Council is teaming with Kinglake’s Ellimatta Youth Inc to provide day trips during the holidays (from September 25 to October 8) to Maroondah Mini Golf and Adventure Park, Watermarc indoor aquatic centre at Greensborough, Forest Adventures at the Kinglake Wilderness Camp and an Op Shop Tour from Greensborough visiting up to 10 shops.
Murrindindi Shire Council CEO Margaret Abbey said these days were a great opportunity for the Shire’s young people to enjoy a day out.
“The main age groups we usually see getting involved in the holiday programs are the 12-14-year-olds,” said Ms Abbey.
“But they’re designed for all ages and those outside that age bracket who come along will certainly have a great time.
“It’s a full day out, so parents who are working can drop their children off before work and then pick them up after their day is over.
“So many parents these days work full-time and they struggle to take time off to be with their children during school holidays, so these activities can take a bit of pressure off our families while still ensuring the young people can enjoy a day out in a safe, supervised environment with members of our team,” Ms Abbey said.
“We also have several drop-off and pick-up points across the Shire – at Yea Community House, Alexandra Shire Office and Ellimatta Youth Inc in Kinglake – so young people from all over the Shire have access to these activities.”
Ms Abbey said the activities were designed to cater for all interests – for those with outdoors and sporting preferences, or those who prefer to get into shopping and the more creative activities.
“Back by popular demand is our trip to the Maroondah Mini Golf and Adventure Park and an all-time favourite is the trip to the Watermarc indoor pool and play centre – the slides are apparently a big hit,” she said.
“Both boys and girls love our Op Shop tours, where this time they’ll get to explore up to 10 op shops from Greensborough through to Kinglake, find themselves some bargains and have a heap of fun with some fashion design.
“The Forest Adventures at Kinglake Wilderness Camp will be a huge day out.
“The young people can get out into nature and tackle the forest’s high ropes course, tree-top walk and enjoy the zip line.
“They can also develop their skills riding the mountain bike tracks, challenge themselves on the climbing wall or in the cargo nets and enjoy a picnic to keep them fuelled up for action.”
Ms Abbey urged families to book early to secure spots as numbers are limited particularly for those travelling from Alexandra and Yea.
“I know our team leaders love these days with the young people,” she said.
“They will also be keen to talk to everyone during these trips to hear what they’d like to do for future outings and opportunities so they can get cracking and start planning them.”
The activities’ dates and costs are:
• Maroondah Mini Golf and Adventure Park – Tuesday, September 26 – cost: $17
• Watermarc – Wednesday, September 27 — cost: $10
• Forest Adventures Kinglake Wilderness Camp – Tuesday, October 3 – cost $5
○ Op Shop Tour – Wednesday, October 4 – cost $5
Limited places are available. You can book your spot and pay online at www.ellimattayouth.org.au, or contact Amelia Slater on 0429 774 310.