Make memories these Xmas school holidays

Whether you’re looking to explore somewhere new, rediscover a favourite spot, or simply enjoy relaxed time with the kids, there’s something for every family to enjoy these school holidays.

Cairns Regional Council is encouraging families to reconnect, get outdoors and enjoy quality time together with a huge range of free and low-cost activities across the region – perfect for locals spending Christmas at home and making the most of the holiday season.

Cairns Mayor Amy Eden said the holidays were an ideal time for families to rediscover some of the region’s most-loved places, from natural wonders like Babinda Boulders and Crystal Cascades to local attractions such as the Botanic Gardens, the Esplanade Lagoon and Sugarworld Adventure Park.

“Cairns is home to some truly world-class natural attractions, and the fact that they’re right on our doorstep is something our community benefits from every day,” Cr Eden said.

“They’re accessible year-round and give families an easy way to relax, reconnect and enjoy the beauty of our region.”

Some recently upgraded locations that families can also enjoy this festive season are:

• The redeveloped bike parks at Evergreen Park (Clifton Beach) and Loridan Drive (Brinsmead).
• The brand-new playground at Copperlode Dam (Lake Morris).
• Explore the Deep Creek Bridge section of the Northern Beaches Leisure Trail (Kewarra to Clifton Beach) and enjoy fishing at Barr Creek Bridge (between Machans Beach and Holloways Beach).
• The recently upgraded Tenni Skate Park (Redlynch).
• The Wangetti Trail between Palm Cove to Ellis Beach.
• The new playground, multicourt, pump track and learn to ride track at Pyramid Parklands Gujura (Gordonvale).
• The new full-size basketball court on Pease Street (Manoora).

If you’re looking to escape the heat or spark imagination indoors, there’s plenty happening:

• Cairns Libraries school holiday activities – creative sessions, crafts and more. For more information, check out the Cairns Libraries School Holiday website.
• Summer Reads at the City Library – a new reading program, including a scavenger hunt, on 15 December. For more information, visit Summer Reads Celebration.
• Insect Talks with Tony Kloss at the Tanks Arts Centre – discover the fascinating world of insects through interactive sessions the whole family can enjoy. For more information about session times, visit the Tanks Arts Centre website.