Hey Reader
Whether you’re looking to ignite your little one’s love of reading, indulge in some gluten-free goodness, or treat the fam to a truly magical (and budget-friendly) staycation, this issue has something for every kind of crew.
Scroll down👇 for our top picks, fresh finds and new experiences across Geelong, the Bellarine and beyond.
Joyce xx
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- Geelong Gluten Free Lifestyle Show (Saturday 9 Aug – Sunday 10 Aug) Head to Deakin Waterfront for two days of gluten-free goodies, cooking demos, and a dedicated kids zone with entertainment.
- Cartwheel Clinic (Sunday 10 Aug + Sunday 31 Aug) Perfect your little one’s tumbling skills with expert instructors in these 2-hour sessions designed for primary school kids of all levels.
- Orchestra Geelong Classical Concert (Sunday 10 Aug) Introduce the family to beautiful classical music with Geelong’s longest-running community orchestra in their second concert of 2025.
- Beckley Park Market (Saturdays) This 40+ year-old market is your one-stop shop for everything from fresh produce to second-hand treasures and family essentials.
- Chocolate Bomb Lab Workshop (Various dates until Friday 29 Aug) Create three delicious chocolate bombs with unique fillings at Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and drop them in hot milk at home for instant magic.
- Baby Sensory Classes (Tuesdays + Wednesdays during school term) Award-winning sensory classes from birth onwards, packed with sounds, textures, music and movement to support your baby’s development.
- Roar Into Reading (Wednesday 13 Aug) This 9-week phonics program for 5+ year-olds combines games, songs and hands-on activities to unlock the magic of reading.
- Horrible Histories Program (Thursday 14 Aug) Write like an Egyptian and learn how Romans used the toilet in this fun program based on Terry Deary’s beloved books and TV series.
- Candlelight Vivaldi Concert (Friday 15 Aug) Experience Vivaldi’s Four Seasons like never before under the gentle glow of candlelight at Geelong West Town Hall.
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Step into a magical world where Australian children’s literature comes to life through historical treasures from the 19th and 20th centuries. This delightful showcase spans decades of storytelling, exploring themes from science to children’s print culture in ways that captivate both little ones and adults.
It’s completely free and offers the perfect blend of education and entertainment for bookworms of all ages.
📍 Deakin Waterfront Campus Library
📅 Daily Monday 18 August – Friday 22 August
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Melbourne calling? We’ve hunted down the best family hotel deals so you can focus on the fun stuff like deciding between the pool or room service for breakfast in bed.
From weekend city adventures to school holiday splurges, these carefully curated offers make family staycations both memorable and budget-friendly without breaking the bank. Check back often because the best family hotel bargains don’t stick around forever.
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PARTNER CONTENT
Climb aboard The Q Train for a scenic journey from Drysdale to Queenscliff while little ones marvel at the countryside views and parents can actually relax.
This restaurant train experience combines exquisite local produce with family-friendly travel, creating the perfect opportunity for special memories without the usual dining-out chaos of dropped crayons and spilled drinks.
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Captain James Link and the gang are back for another intergalactic adventure that’s bigger, bolder, and packed with even more audience participation than before.
This original pantomime sequel brings fresh characters, catchy new songs, and energetic dances that will have little ones singing along while keeping parents thoroughly entertained with clever humour woven throughout.
📍 The Potato Shed, Drysdale
📅 Daily Tuesday 30 September – Thursday 2 October
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Bundle up for a magical evening aboard a historic steam train that transforms winter into wonder, complete with the nostalgic hiss of steam as you wind through the night under a blanket of stars.
Once you arrive at the winter-themed station, the real magic begins with crackling fire pits, family-friendly games, and a cozy atmosphere that feels like stepping into a storybook. Book quickly because these enchanting nights consistently sell out!
📍 Bellarine Railway, Queenscliffe
📅 Saturday 23 August + Friday 26 September
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