Issue April 2018

Three for kids to eat free

Perth Hills Armadale Visitor Centre image

Going out to eat with the family shouldn't have to break the bank, and with so many family friendly eateries in the region it doesn’t have to. In fact, we've picked out our top three faves that kids will love… and you'll love it even more when you find out the kids eat free!

  1. Paddy's Bush Bar and Grill
    Paddy's is the place to be on Wednesdays. Let the kids loose to play in the paddock and bounce on the trampoline or keep an eye on them while they chill out and colour in the indoor play area. Enjoy FREE face painting between 6-8pm and be sure to say hello to the friendly goats Steve and Paddy (we hear they love a pat). Kids (under 14) eat for free with any adult meal and as an added bonus Paddy's offer a parmy special for the parents for $22 including a drink.

  2. Hogs Breath Kelmscott
    The home of Australia’s favourite steak is also home to fantastic value for money with kids (12 and under) eating for free Monday to Thursday for lunch and dinner*. Plenty of tasty options combined with Hog's casual and relaxed atmosphere are sure to keep everyone happy.
    *with main meals over $23.95

  3. Genesis in the Hills
    Be at home among the gumtrees when you visit Genesis in the Hills in Roleystone. New owners Brittany and Matt have brought exciting changes to this hills favourite vegetarian and vegan café, including opening for dinner on Friday and Saturday nights. Kids eat free both nights and if you're lucky you might just spot one of their regular visitors, Patrick the possum!

Furry, feathered and scaled friends

Image of kangaroos

A visit to Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Centre is a must for any school holiday adventure. The centre is home to over 70 different species of Australian native animals including mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians.

The centre is dedicated to conserving our native wildlife and is home to a rescue and rehabilitation clinic for animals that are sick, injured, orphaned or abandoned. You won't only enjoy a great day out when you visit but you'll feel good knowing your admission fee is going towards supporting our local fauna.

Pack a picnic and take advantage of the free BBQ facilities located on site before or after exploring the grounds. Open 10am-4pm daily (closed Wednesdays except during school holidays).

Admission Prices:
Adults $17
Kids (3-15) $7
Mini Groups (2 adults and 2 kids)             $42

Escape from reality with Off the Beaten Track WA

Image of outdoor activity

Switch off your TV screens, turn off the iPad and put down your phone these school holidays. Join Off the Beaten Track WA for an immersive experience in nature. Surround yourself in the serenity of the Perth Hills for a hiking adventure with a twist.

Go on an outdoor adventure and explore new places on a private hiking experience to reconnect with nature and embrace quality family time. Experience a Perth Hills sunrise or sunset, try a spot of stargazing or see the magic of the full moon on a night time hike in the hills. Trips can be tailored to suit your needs and experience levels, all ages are welcome.

Start planning your unique hike by calling 0417 128 896 or email offthebeatentrackwa@gmail.com.

Check out Off the Beaten Tracks WA upcoming events.

Playtime, anytime - top five free parks for kids

Image of children playing in park

With so many great playparks in the region it can be hard to narrow down your options, so we've taken the hard work out for you and selected our top five free and favourite parks for kids.

  1. Lions Park, Armadale
    Set up like a mini race-track this park is perfect for busting out the rollerblades, scooters and bikes. Remember the helmets and your little speed demons are in for a fun-filled hour or two!

  2. Memorial Park, Armadale*
    Take a break after hitting the shops with a moment in Memorial Park in the heart of Armadale. This gorgeous park offers plenty of shade and a colourful playground to explore and climb.
    *The Park will be receiving exciting upgrades from May to August and will be closed during this period. Works include a new railway inspired playground, an all-abilities seesaw and a community swing.

  3. Rushton Park, Kelmscott
    Our favourite spot for nature play, Rushton Park is the perfect place to let your little explorers run, jump and climb, surrounded by nature on the banks of the Canning River.

  4. Robot Park, Piara Waters
    *Insert robot voice* Beep, boop, beep, the coolest park around is home to a gigantic, colourful robot. The kids will love clambering up the climbing nets and ropes and most importantly seeing the inside of the robots head!

  5. Shipwreck Park, Hilbert
    Ahoy M'hearties! Gather your scallywags and get ready to walk the plank at Shipwreck Park. Sail the high seas at this nautical themed, all abilities playground.

Relax and restore

Yoga in the park image

Take some time out for you to be pampered, relax and de-stress these school holidays. Whether you relax with a hot stone massage, a yoga session or meditation among nature we know the perfect place for you to embrace me-time in the Perth Hills Armadale.

  1. Be pampered at Bella Hair and Day Spa
    Bella's is your one-stop shop dedicated to improving overall wellness. Soothe aching muscles with a massage, enjoy a body scrub or wrap or experience the ultimate escape with a spa package. First time visitors even receive a FREE $25 gift voucher to be used on any service over $95. Browse spa packages and call 9497 3366 to book.

  2. Reinvigorate among nature at Kookaburra Yoga
    Seek solace and peace in the tranquil environment that is Kookaburra Yoga, a place in true harmony with nature. Classes are often accompanied by the sounds of kookaburras, crickets, frogs, birds, and the breeze between the branches of the trees. Drop in for a yoga class to restore balance and harmony.

  3. Find inner-peace at Restful Waters
    Unwind your mind with a retreat, yoga class or meditation session at the beautiful Restful Waters in Bedfordale. Set on a 10 acre avocado orchard this serene sanctuary is the perfect place to slow down. Try a Mindful Meditation class, Vishrant Tai Chi, Dance for Health or book in for a Mini Retreat.

School Holiday fun at Araluen Botanic Park

Image of children planting

Let your little horticulturalists out to play at Araluen's School Holiday Programme. 

Junior Gardener Workshops

Your little ones will enjoy a scavenger hunt through the Park, a yummy morning tea, plus get to make their own tomato planter and egg carton caterpillar to continue their newly found gardening skills at home.

18 April and 24 April from 9.30 to 11.30am

Tickets $12 for kids and $7 for adults, bookings essential.

Araluen's Reptile Encounter

Get up close and personal with some scaly friends from Armadale Reptile and Wildlife Centre. Learn all about Australia's Reptiles and where to find them. Workshop includes a scavenger hunt and morning tea.

20 April and 26 April from 9.30 to 11.30am

Tickets $12 for kids and $7 for adults, bookings essential.