Hi there Reader
Do you like pickles?
I'm partial to a good gherkin myself. But you know what pickle I absolutely cannot stand?
When you've planned the perfect outdoor day with the kids and wake up to absolutely bucketing rain. You know the feeling - everyone's already excited, you've packed snacks, and suddenly you're staring out the window at grey skies thinking "well, crap."
Here's how I get out of it:
- I keep a secret list on my phone called "Rainy Day Wins" - places in Geelong that are actually better when it's gross outside because they're less crowded.
- The Geelong Library becomes your best friend. Not just for books - they have amazing kids' programs, cozy reading nooks, and free wifi if you need to work while the kids explore. Plus, parking is usually easier on rainy days.
- Indoor play centres like MoPA or Inflatable World suddenly don't feel like chaos because all the other parents had the same brilliant idea, so there's this lovely "we're all in this together" vibe.
And here's my secret weapon: Westfield Geelong when it's pouring. Let the kids burn energy in the playground area, grab a coffee, and if you're feeling brave, treat it like a treasure hunt through the shops. The covered parking means you stay dry, and honestly, sometimes a change of scenery is all everyone needs.
The key is having these backup plans ready to go, so when the weather turns, you're not scrambling - you're just pivoting to Plan B.
Chat soon,
Joyce xx
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- Piccadilly Market (Saturday 6 Sep) Your local treasure hunt awaits with artisan stalls, free train rides, face painting, and a fun farm that'll keep the little ones entertained while you browse.
- Ignite Youth Festival (Saturday 6 Sep) Support young local artists while the kids enjoy creative workshops and a colourful splash finale that celebrates youth creativity and mental health awareness.
- Growers Market (Saturday 6 Sep) A real food market focused on locally grown and made products, where families can learn about nutrition and sustainable food practices.
- OneHope Dad's Playgroup (Saturday 6 Sep) A special dad and bub bonding session with indoor and outdoor play, plus a legendary sausage sizzle that's become the stuff of local legend.
- Sadie Mustoe Concert (Sunday 7 Sep) An all-ages musical treat perfect for introducing kids to live music, with dancing beats and a lolly jar competition that'll have them talking for weeks.
- WYM Father's Day (Sunday 7 Sep) Treat dad to $4 craft beers overlooking the Botanic Gardens while the kids run free in this peaceful, family-friendly escape from the usual crowded venues.
- Born Wild Community (Various sessions during school term) Let the kids get gloriously muddy with nature play sessions featuring campfires, bush craft, and all the outdoor adventures that make childhood magical.
- Views of Geelong Exhibition (Daily until Sunday 9 Nov) Discover how artists have captured our beautiful region through the ages, with works that'll give you a fresh perspective on your own backyard.
- Gallery Tots (Fridays during school term) Transform art appreciation into toddler-friendly adventures with interactive storytelling that'll spark your little one's imagination and creativity.
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Jon and Jero have completely forgotten how their stories go and need audience help to figure out what happens next. This improvised comedy show features live piano music and plenty of audience participation, where children can shout out suggestions and watch their ideas come to life on stage.
Suitable for ages 5 and up, the show includes physical comedy, character work, and interactive storytelling. Each performance is different depending on what the audience suggests.
📍 The Open House, Geelong Arts Centre
📅 Sunday 2 November
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We all need a break from city life sometimes, and farm stays offer that perfect mix of relaxation for parents and genuine excitement for kids.
This collection covers everything from working farms where children can help with morning chores, to more comfortable retreats where the closest you'll get to livestock is watching them from the verandah. We've made sure to also find properties that cater to families with varying levels of rural enthusiasm and different budgets.
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PARTNER CONTENT
Learning to surf has always seemed like something other people do, but these two-hour lessons in Torquay make it surprisingly accessible.
The instructors work with complete beginners on waves that won't overwhelm you, focusing on getting you standing up rather than looking like a pro surfer. Most people manage to catch at least one wave by the end, though expect to spend some time in the water figuring it out!
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This year's Children's Week Picnic moves to Wyndham Park in Werribee, offering a full day of free entertainment and activities. The program includes live performances from DJ Be Kind to Other People, lion dancing, African drumming, and comedy from the Trash Test Dummies.
Families can explore food trucks, participate in workshops, and enjoy the inclusive community atmosphere. Free entry requires advance booking, with tickets available from 13 October.
📍 Wyndham Park, Werribee
📅 Sunday 26 October
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The Royal Geelong Yacht Club runs a games-based sailing program for children aged 7-12 during the September school holidays.
Tackers focuses on fun rather than competition, teaching basic sailing skills through play and group activities. No previous sailing experience or club membership is required, and all equipment is provided. Sessions run at various times throughout the holiday period, offering children the opportunity to learn water safety and sailing basics in Corio Bay.
📍 Royal Geelong Yacht Club, Geelong
📅 Various dates over September school holidays
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