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Family fun in the Burdekin!

With the warmer weather upon us and the sunshine beaming across the region, there’s really no better time to explore the local community and enjoy every nook and cranny of the Burdekin Shire. There are plenty of hot spots across the Burdekin where many locals and tourists alike visit to enjoy plenty of quality time with their families and friends from gorgeous natural locations to a bustling local café! A hidden gem, the Burdekin is blossoming with a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
If you’re searching for a wonderful day overflowing with laughter and cool vibes amidst the tropical heat, pack your goggles and spend the day splashing about or lazing around at one of the local swimming pool facilities! Make sure you pack a picnic, sunscreen, and your best diving skills for a family friendly diving competition to add a touch of rivalry to the day.
A day spent immersed in natural beauty and greenery holds a plethora of benefits for both your body and mind. Plantation Park offers its visitors plenty to enjoy with enormous trees providing natural shade over large green fields, seating areas, and a wonderful nature-based play space, catering to all abilities. Children can enter a world of their own imagination as they climb and explore the fortress themed, state-of-the-art playground whilst parents can enjoy relaxing at one of the shaded seating areas, or perhaps heating up one of the BBQ facilities for a lunch with a view.
Following on from lunch, take the family on an educational and leisurely stroll or bike ride through the Juru Walk located at the southern end of Plantation Park. A 1.4KM loop, the walking trail recognises the spiritual connection of the Burdekin’s Aboriginal history, incorporating the work and support of Juru and Bindal Traditional Owners, and local artists; Kelvin Lampton, and Alfred Smallwood. Described as a “learning space” for the Burdekin community, the Juru Walk provides visitors with information signs, educating readers of the native flora and fauna, as well as a perfect way to get active and experience the beauty of natural bushland.
Slip, slop, slap and head down to Alva Beach for an awesome day of fun in the sun! Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the ocean, or emerge victorious in a friendly sandcastle building competition, ensure you arrive prepared for a wonderful family fun day. If competitiveness runs in the family, there are plenty of fun activities you can add to the day like racing up sand dunes, hunting for shells or coconuts, kite flying, or seeing who can spot the most soldier crabs!  

Here are some special tips to maximise your next outing:
   • Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate: with a tropical climate, comes hot days, so make sure to pack plenty of water bottles to keep everyone hydrated
   • Early bird gets the worm: starting your family fun days earlier will allow you to doge the heat
   • Bring snacks: make sure to keep tummies full and energy levels high!
   • Support local businesses: the saying goes, “there’s no business like a Burdekin business”, and it’s always important to show your love to the locals when you can!
   • Get involved: be sure to keep one eye on the local event calendar.