The answers to your burning questions + 7 days of family fun


Hey Reader

Ever heard of an AMA? (That’s "Ask Me Anything.")

Well, I’m hosting one...right here in your inbox!

If you’ve ever wondered how I find the best events for Geelong With Kids, how I manage work-life balance with kids, or you just want some more personalised recs—now’s your chance to ask.

Hit reply anytime this week, and I’ll personally answer your questions. Whether you’re looking for the best toddler-friendly parks or curious about starting your own local newsletter, I’m all ears.

Let’s make this fun—I can’t wait to hear from you.

Joyce xx


Top Picks

  • Geelong Cats vs Port Adelaide (Sunday 3 Aug) The Cats take on Port Adelaide Power at GMHBA Stadium – perfect for introducing your mini footy fans to the electric atmosphere of AFL at Kardinia Park.
  • Waterfront Makers & Growers Market (Sunday 3 Aug) This gorgeous market on the Steampacket Gardens lawns combines local produce, handcrafted goodies, live music, and hot food – perfect for a family morning out by the water.
  • The Paper Escaper (Monday 4 Aug) Join Benny the puppet as he takes little ones on a magical pop-up book adventure filled with friendship, imagination, and courage that'll have them giggling and gasping in equal measure.
  • The World's Longest Book (Thursday 7 Aug) Join local artist Fern Smith in this wonderfully messy creative adventure where kids (and adults!) can freely express themselves while contributing to what might just be the longest book ever made.
  • Cloth and Thread: A Textile Journey (Daily until Sunday 10 Aug) Four talented Bellarine textile artists showcase their stunning fabric creations using vibrant textures, colours, and techniques that'll inspire budding young artists and craft-loving parents alike.
  • Hot Chocolate Festival (Daily until Sunday 31 Aug) Warm those winter bellies this August with 31 exotic hot chocolate flavours at the Chocolaterie, plus optional tasting sessions where families can sip, sample, and even create their own delicious concoctions to take home.
  • PNH Playgroup (Wednesdays during school term) This relaxed weekly playgroup at Portarlington Neighbourhood House is perfect for parents and carers looking to connect while their 0-4 year olds explore toys, books, and make new friends in a cosy indoor space.
  • Youth Collective (Tuesdays) From tech adventures to hands-on crafting, these weekly sessions offer something different each week for older kids who want to hang out, learn new skills, and make friends.
  • We the Makers Sustainable Fashion Prize Exhibition (Daily until Sunday 30 Nov) Twenty extraordinary sustainable fashion pieces are on display at the National Wool Museum, where families can admire innovative designs and vote for their favourite in the People's Choice Award.

New + Noteworthy

Magical Mayhem

The sparkles are back and shinier than ever! After last year's success, Unicorn Utopia returns bigger and brighter.

Create dazzling unicorns from extraordinary colourful materials, craft fabulous wearable tails, get whimsical face painting, and treat your taste buds to delicious unicorn cupcakes. And don't forget your best unicorn attire – this is one party where more glitter is always better.

📍 Bluebird Foundation, South Geelong
📅 Tuesday 30 September

Little Engines Can Do Big Things

Your little train enthusiast's dreams just came true. The Party Tour Day Out With Thomas event at Bellarine Railway is pure childhood magic on tracks.

This is an immersive experience that brings the world of Thomas and his friends to life with interactive activities, special rides, and enough excitement to make even grown-ups giddy.

Running across the weekend of 4-5 October, this is an unmissable opportunity to close the Spring School Holidays with a bang.

PARTNER CONTENT

Ocean Road Adventure

Ready for the ultimate family road trip that'll have everyone from toddlers to grandparents completely mesmerised?

This Great Ocean Road tour hits all the iconic spots without the usual tourist chaos. Experience the breathtaking 12 Apostles at their most serene and picturesque moments, explore the dramatic limestone cliffs of Loch Ard Gorge, and keep little eyes peeled for koalas and native wildlife.

Rabbit Gets Real

Bring your child's favourite snuggly toy to this enchanting show where toys quite literally take centre stage. This century-old beloved tale gets a fresh, hilariously modern makeover.

Physical Theatre Company reimagines Margery Williams' classic story The Velveteen Rabbit with live projections, audience participation, and music that'll have everyone humming. It's playful, poetic, and one of those magical shows that reminds us why live theatre creates such lasting memories.

📍 Geelong Arts Centre, Geelong
📅 Tuesday 23 September - Wednesday 24 September

From Trash to Treasure

Urban Upcycle is bringing a whirlwind of creative magic to the Bellarine Peninsula that'll blow your mind. Think rockets soaring to imaginary galaxies, robots with personality, majestic unicorns, fierce dragons, enchanted fairy houses, monster trucks, and whatever else your little creative can dream up.

Using everyday items that might otherwise hit the recycling bin, children transform the ordinary into the absolutely extraordinary.

📍 Grove Pavilion, Ocean Grove
📅 Wednesday 24 September


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