Spring School Holidays: The Great Aussie Wallet Workout (and How to Survive It!)

Spring School Holidays

Spring break is here, and while it’s a time for the kiddos to unwind, it can feel like our wallets are doing the backstroke! Don’t worry, fellow Aussie parents, we’ve all been there. Between the “I’m bored” chorus and the constant snack attacks, it seems like our cash disappears faster than a snag at a Barbie.

But hold your horses! With a little planning and some top-notch Aussie ingenuity, we can turn this break into a memorable (and budget-friendly) adventure for the whole family!

Let’s Tackle Those Travel Costs:

Road Trip Romps

Pack a picnic lunch and hit the road for a free day at the beach or a scenic national park. Fresh air fun that’s easy on the wallet!

Staycation Shenanigans

Explore your own backyard! Check out local museums, libraries, or zoos with free or discounted entry days. You might be surprised by what hidden gems you find.

Travel Like a True Aussie

Avoid peak school holiday times for cheaper flights and accommodation. Bonus points for packing light to save on baggage fees!

Score Some Sweet Deals

Want to save on hotels, flights, or car rentals? Check out the discount coupons.

Family Trip

Next Up: Entertainment on a Budget!

Free Fun in the Sun

Check your local council website for free events happening during the holidays. Think movie nights in the park, story time at the library, or nature walks. Get those little legs moving and explore!

Family Game Nights

Dust off those dusty board games or get crafty with DIY projects. You’d be surprised how much fun can be had at home with a little imagination.

Library Loot

Libraries are treasure troves of entertainment! Borrow books, movies, and even board games for free. Plus, it’s a great way to beat the heat and keep those brains active.

Discount Deals for the Win

Looking for deals on movie tickets, theme park passes, or even bowling alleys? We’ve got you covered! Check out Shopa Coupon for some awesome savings.

Taming the Foodie Frenzy:

Pack a Picnic Powerhouse

Skip the expensive restaurant meals and pack lunches for day trips and picnics. It’s healthier, cheaper, and gives you more control over portion sizes.

Movie Night Munchies Made Easy

Forget the overpriced popcorn! Make your own popcorn buckets at home for a fun and budget-friendly movie night treat.

Cooking Up Memories

Turn mealtime into an adventure! Get the kids involved in planning and preparing meals. It’s a great way to teach them valuable life skills and create lasting memories.

Winner, winner, kiddo’s dinner!

Restaurant Deals to the Rescue

Feeding a hungry horde can be expensive, but Shopa Coupon can help! Find deals and discounts on your favourite restaurants.

Don’t Forget the Shopping Spree Survival Guide:

Wish List Wisdom

Help your kids create a wish list and prioritise wants and needs. This way they can appreciate the value of money and work towards their goals.

Patience is a Virtue

Teach your kids the importance of saving for what they want. A little delayed gratification goes a long way!

Second-hand Savvy

Consider buying gently used items like toys, clothes, and books from online marketplaces or thrift stores. You never know what hidden gems you might find!

Shopa Coupon to the Rescue

Still, feeling the shopping pinch?

Don’t forget to check out Shopa Coupon for some shopping deals and discounts to stretch that dollar even further!

Happy Family

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and create lasting memories with the family! By following these tips and a little bit of Aussie ingenuity, this school break can be a blast without breaking the bank! Now get out there, explore, and make the most of this sun-kissed spring fling!

Master Your Family Budget: Proven Planning Strategies

Family Budget Planning

Feeling like your paycheck disappears faster than a slice of cake at a birthday party?

You’re not alone! But fear not, fellow parent warriors! This guide will equip you with powerful budget planning strategies, helping you create a budget that works for your family without feeling like a chore.

Why a Family Budget Matters: Your Financial Superhero Cape

Imagine a cape that gives you superpowers over your finances. That’s what a budget is!

It lets you see exactly where your money goes (no more mystery spending!), set priorities that reflect what’s important to your family (vacay fund, anyone?), and avoid that sinking feeling of overspending. Plus, it helps you plan for unexpected expenses (car troubles, anyone?) and those dream goals, big or small (because everyone deserves a little something to save for).

Family Budget Step 1: Track Your Finances Like a Pro

Where does your money vanish to each month? 

This is detective work, but way more fun! Track every expense, big or small, for a clear picture. There are budgeting apps and spreadsheets galore, or grab a pen and notebook, it’s up to you!   categorise your spending into things like groceries, housing, and entertainment. This will be your spending breakdown, like a roadmap for your money.

Set Financial Goals with Your Family Budget

What do you want your money to achieve?

Maybe it’s a dream vacation to Hawaii or finally getting serious about saving for junior’s college fund.  Having clear, short-term and long-term goals will keep you motivated and help you prioritise how you spend.  Think of them as your family’s financial treasures!

Know Your Family Income to Create a Solid Budget

Just like pirates gotta know where their treasure comes from, you gotta figure out your family’s total monthly income.  Add up your paychecks, side hustles (if you got ’em!), and any other regular income sources.  Be meticulous, because this number  tells you  how much booty  (err, money)  you have to work with!

Balancing Needs and Wants in Your Family Budget

The husband and wife thinking about their monthly income

Now comes the balancing act!

Think of your needs (housing, food, bills) like the foundation  of your  financial house.  These come first.  Then comes the fun stuff (entertainment, eating out) –  your wants.  The goal is to find a balance between affordability and, well, having  a little  fun!  Be a budget ninja and find ways to cut back on non-essentials. Maybe brown bag your lunch more often or ditch the cable for a while. Every little bit helps!

Save Money and Build Wealth with a Family Budget

Building a safety net and working towards your goals?  That’s the magic of saving!

Start an emergency fund for unexpected expenses, and  set up  automatic transfers  to  savings accounts  for your  long-term goals.  Remember, even small amounts grow over time,  thanks to  the magic of  compound interest  (it’s like free money!).

Conquer Debt with Effective Family Budget Strategies

Debt can feel like a monster under the bed, but don’t fright!  Face it head-on by listing all your debts and their interest rates.  Tackle the high-interest ones first (like credit cards) by throwing extra money at them.  Consider consolidating multiple debts into one loan with a lower interest rate.  You’ve got this!

Shop Smart and Save with Your Family Budget

Being a savvy shopper is another superpower!  Plan your grocery list and stick to it.  Generic brands are often just as good as name brands for way less.  Look for sales,  discount coupons,  and bulk buys for staples.  Discount grocers can be your friend.  Remember,  every dollar saved is a dollar earned!

Entertainment on a Budget: Fun Doesn’t Have to Cost a Fortune!

Family fun doesn’t have to break the bank! Here are some ideas to keep your entertainment costs in check:

Free Fun is the Best Fun!

Explore free activities in your area. Check out library events,  museums with free admission days, or parks with free concerts. There are tons of hidden gems to discover!

Channel Your Inner Chef!

Eating out can drain your budget fast.  Cook delicious meals at home instead!  Make it a family  activity  and have a potluck-style dinner where everyone contributes a dish.  Picnics in the park are another budget-friendly way to enjoy a meal together.

Movie Night Under the Stars!

Skip the expensive movie theater and have a movie night at home.  Pop some popcorn, cuddle up on the couch, and enjoy a classic film or a new release you rented.

Board Game Bonanza!

Dust off those old board games or card games. You’d be surprised how much fun you can have with a little friendly competition (and no screen time!).

Be a Tourist in Your Own Town!

Pretend you’re visiting your city for the first time.  Explore local landmarks, historical sites, or even take a walking tour. You might be surprised by what you find!

Teach Your Kids the Money Magic!

the parents teaching their kid about money savings with piggy bank-money box

Empowering your kids with financial knowledge is a valuable gift.  Talk to them about budgeting,  explain where money comes from,  and  get them involved in age-appropriate  ways.  An allowance can teach them saving and spending habits.  Encourage them to  set goals  and  help them track their progress.   Remember, the lessons they learn now will stay with them for life!

Budget planning doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. By following these tips and making it a family effort, you can take control of your finances and reach your goals together!

14 Date Ideas For Every Couple (And Budget) In 2024

fun date ideas - 2024 for Aussie couples

Calling all Aussie lovebirds!

Wanna crank the romance up a notch in 2024?

We got you covered, mates!

From city adventures to stunning nature escapes, this list is bursting with 14 date ideas for every couple (and budget) Down Under.

Foodie Fun For Two: Let’s Get Cooking (Or Competitive)!

Idea 1:

Feeling like your takeout game is getting a little stale? Ditch the menus and whip up a culinary storm together! We’re talking sizzling Thai curries, steaming bowls of Vietnamese pho, or maybe even mastering the Aussie barbie like a pro. Many cooking schools offer couples classes, so get ready for some playful competition.

Food fun date ideas for Aussie couples

(and maybe a few flirty food fights – all in good fun, of course!).

Idea 2:

Feeling fancy? Upgrade your date night with a Wine Masterclass. Learn about different varietals, impress your date with your newfound knowledge (or at least pretend you know what you’re talking about!), and enjoy some delicious sips along the way.

Progressive Eats Adventure: A Culinary Tour of Your City

Idea 3:

Ever feel like you’re stuck in a restaurant rut?

Explore the diverse flavours of your city with a progressive dinner date! Hit up a few different restaurants – sample appetisers at one, devour mouthwatering mains at another, and finish it all off with decadent desserts at the last stop. It’s a delicious way to discover new cuisines and have a unique dining experience together.

Need some inspiration?

Check out Experience Oz! They have amazing options for Mystery Picnic spots (perfect for a surprise!), Winery Tours (because who doesn’t love a good wine tasting?), and incredible food experiences across Australia. They even have sweet deals on bookings and afterpay options, so you can enjoy the night without breaking the bank.

Sounds pretty perfect, right?

Feeling Adventurous? Let’s Get Out There!

Idea 4:

Starry Night, Who Dis? Escape to the Milky Way!

City lights got you down? Escape to a secluded spot for some serious stargazing! Download a cool app to identify constellations and impress your date with your cosmic knowledge (or at least BS your way through it – they’ll never know!). Snuggle up under the Milky Way and share a romantic moment – pure magic, guaranteed!

Idea 5:

Surf’s Up, Lovebirds! Catch a Wave (or Wipe Out Spectacularly!)

Surf fun date ideas for Aussie Couples

Ever dreamt of catching a wave? Now’s your chance (even if it just means wiping out spectacularly)! Grab your significant other and take a couples surfing lesson. It’ll be a fun, active way to spend the day, filled with laughter and maybe a little admiration for each other’s newfound surfing skills (or lack thereof!).

Need some pointers? Check out Experience Oz: link to website! They offer private and group lessons on soft boards, stand-up paddle boards, and regular surfboards. Imagine ruling the waves at Bondi Beach or conquering the Gold Coast – the hottest beaches in Australia await!

Idea 6:

Hit the Trails! Hike Stunning Scenery

Australia’s a hiker’s paradise, with stunning coastal walks, lush rainforest trails, and even challenging rock climbs for the super ambitious. Choose a difficulty level that suits you both, conquer that summit, and celebrate with a smooch at the top – breathtaking views guaranteed!

Feeling like Spider-Man? While I can’t recommend scaling skyscrapers, check out Adrenaline’s killer collection of rock-climbing adventures across Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, and Brisbane. They cater to both beginners and experienced climbers, so you can find the perfect challenge (and celebrate with a smooch at the top, of course!). For more budget-friendly adventure options, visit Shopa Coupon.

Culture and Creativity: Unleash Your Inner Artist

Idea 7:

Unleash Your Inner Picasso (and Maybe a Little Wine): Paint and Sip Party

Feeling like your creativity is trapped in a beige box? Break free with a paint and sip class! Let the vino flow and unleash your inner artist alongside your boo. It’s all about playful competition, messy masterpieces, and maybe discovering a hidden talent (or at least a hilarious lack thereof).

Idea 8:

Art Attack! Explore the City’s Art Scene

Is your city bursting with artistic energy? Dive into the vibrant art scene by exploring local galleries together. Discuss the pieces that catch your eye, discover each other’s artistic preferences, and who knows, you might even find inspiration for your own home masterpiece

(or at least a killer Instagram post).

Idea 9:

Rock Out Under the Stars (Picnic and Snacks Included!): Concert Under the Sky

Ditch the stuffy concert halls and pack a blanket (and some yummy snacks, of course) for an unforgettable night of live music under the stars! Sway to the rhythm, share a cozy cuddle, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Escape The Ordinary (But Still Stay Comfy!)

Idea 10:

Paddle Power for Two: Glide Across Calm Waters

nature peaceful fun date ideas for Aussie Couples

Glide across a calm lake or river in a kayak or canoe. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy nature and maybe even have a little splash fight (just don’t get your date too soaked!).

Idea 11:

Hot Air Balloon Heaven: Float Above Stunning Landscapes

Imagine floating above stunning landscapes in a giant colourful bubble. Talk about breathtaking views! It’s the perfect mix of romance and a little adrenaline rush (think butterflies in your stomach, not the scary kind). Plus, check the Adrenaline website – there’s a 20% discount on hot air balloon rides right now! What more could you ask for?

Idea 12:

Underwater Adventure: Dive into the Great Barrier Reef

Dive into the incredible Great Barrier Reef! Snorkel or scuba dive and be amazed by the vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life. Just remember, sharing a snorkel is not recommended…awkward!

Idea 13:

Camp Out Under the Stars: Reconnect with Nature

Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and gaze up at a sky filled with twinkling stars. Camping is a classic way to reconnect with nature and create lasting memories (just make sure you pack the bug spray!).

Idea 14:

Volunteer Vibes: Give Back to Your Community

Give back to your community and bond with your partner by volunteering for a local environmental cause. It’s a feel-good activity that you can both feel passionate about.

Example:
  • Plant a Tree Together,
  • Clean Up a Beach or Park,
  • Help Out at an Animal Shelter,
  • Volunteer at a wildlife rehabilitation centre.

Remember:

This is just a springboard to get your creative juices flowing! Tailor these ideas to your interests and budget. The most important thing is to spend quality time with your significant other and make memories that will make you smile for years to come!

Savvy Savings at the Supermarket

Our supermarket bills are one of our biggest expenses each week and we obviously can’t go without it – but we can make a big difference to what we’re splashing our cash on. And the good news is you can eat well and save money! With some pre-planning (don’t forget the shopping list) you can stock your pantry and fridge with budget-friendly staples. 
Saving at the supermarket doesn’t mean you need to eat rubbish. In fact, packaged foods tend to be more expensive, so by eating foods made from scratch you’ll also save money.

Plan ahead.

If you shop without a list, you will no doubt spend more. Meal planning does more than save time at the end of a long day, it will also save you money at the supermarket. Make sure to include snacks in your planning and don’t forget to write a list of any household items you need. Most important of all, stick to the list! Get everything you need in one weekly shop, with a quick and easy mid-week top-up to minimise waste, save time and save money.

  • Try your local fruit shop for the tastiest in-season fruit and vegetables.
  • Choose items with the longest expiry date.
  • Less processed bread like wholemeal and wholegrain contain more nutrients and essential vitamins and are more filling than the more processed white bread.
  • Keep an eye out for specials. Don’t be afraid to buy in bulk and store in the freezer to save more.
  • Always check what’s in your pantry before starting your weekly shop.

Save on nappies.

There are no two ways around it – nappies are not only necessary for your baby, but they can also be very expensive.

Did you know that by buying cloth you could save enough money for a family holiday to Fiji?  Or even all your major baby purchases. It’s true, you really can save a lot just by using cloth nappies. Most babies are potty trained around 2-3 years old, so working on averages, that equals 6500 nappy changes, approx. 70 cents per disposable nappy, and a grand total of $4550 for disposable nappies! There are lots of Australian cloth nappy businesses out there. Here’s an introduction to some of them.

https://www.thewarmfuzziesclothcollective.com.au/

https://www.bamboogrove.com.au/

https://www.econaps.com.au/

https://designerbums.com.au/

https://mimiandco.com.au/

If you’ve been considering going the reusable route, all I can say is: DO IT. Now. It’s never too late, and you will LOVE it.

Buy home brand basics.

Flour is flour and rice is rice. Despite the $3+ difference in price on the packet, there really is no difference in taste. You can save $10-20 per shop simply by exchanging name brands for the home brand on the basics.

Woolworths Homebrand is a range of everyday household products that are great value for money. Providing low prices on a total range of everyday items. The range includes dairy, meat, snacks, and treats, along with cleaners and staple ingredients used in cooking. In addition to this, check out Woolworth’s great half-price specials here.

Reduce waste.

How much of your supermarket shop ends up in the bin each week? A few tomatoes here and lettuce there all add up.

Try to buy only what you will use and where possible, buy non-perishable alternatives.

Snap-frozen veggies have been shown to have just as many nutrients (sometimes more) than their “fresh” alternatives. Buying frozen where possible saves on waste and is often cheaper. This is especially true for anything not in season.

Buy online.

If you tend to get the shock of your life at the cash register, then try shopping online. Coles & Woolworths stores offer free click-and-collect options, and it can be a great way to save time and save money.

Shopping online avoids impulse buys and lets you keep track of what you are spending. You can also easily compare pricing and choose the cheaper option when sitting on the couch at home. Something that isn’t always possible mid-shop when you are time poor.

Avoid packaged foods.

Packaged foods contain more additives, salt, sugar, and preservatives plus they generally cost more. Do your health a favour and avoid pre-packaged foods wherever possible.

There are countless swaps for many packaged products.:

  • Trade your sugary breakfast cereal for a bowl of oats with fresh fruit.
  • Pop your own popcorn on the stove in place of microwave popcorn.
  • Whip up a homemade vinaigrette with olive oil and vinegar to drizzle over salads in place of processed dressings.
  • Make trail mix using nuts, seeds, and dried fruit for a healthy alternative to store-bought varieties.
  • Top your salads with nuts or seeds instead of a packet of croutons.

In addition to healthier eating, you may want to try The Healthy Mummy, they understand that keeping your spending down during your weekly shop can be hard, especially when you have a family to feed. You can still eat well and be on a healthy weight-loss diet on a budget!

Eat less meat.

Most people spend a big chunk of their weekly budget on meat. If you choose expensive cuts and eat large amounts of meat for every meal the cost really adds up.

Try to plan meals with less meat. There are heaps of healthy vegetarian or even vegan choices that will fill you up and cost much less than a traditional meat-filled meal, saving you money. Less meat in your diet can also be a healthier choice for your family and the environment. Try some delicious vegetarian recipes here.

You can also take control of your health for good by utilising Noom. Noom uses the latest in proven behavioural science to empower people to take control of their health and wellness. Explore how you can be the healthiest version of yourself today!

By eating healthy whole foods, planning, and choosing cheaper options where they are available you really can save money on your supermarket shop each week. Eating for less doesn’t have to mean eating low-quality food, you just need to learn to shop more effectively create new, healthy habits, and most importantly this will help save you money!

 

Want to start saving more now?

Become a member for free at: shopadocket.com.au or download the Free Shopadocket App to find and redeem discount offers. Play the Shopa docket game for your chance to win great gift card vouchers every day!

The cost-of-living crisis:
How you can save money.

Are you feeling the squeeze with the rising cost of living? Here are some tips on how you can save money and get through these tough times without breaking the bank!

Ensuring that you are controlling the things that you have control over is crucial. What might seem like everyday changes, like meal planning, can be an effective way to create positive change in your financial position. Eating out can eat away at your savings, so cutting back on spending will prove beneficial in the long run. Check out these tips on ways you can save.

Make 2023 the year you start writing shopping lists.

Before heading out for your weekly grocery shop, create a list of the items you need to purchase. Preparing a shopping list can help you avoid any unnecessary purchases and steer clear of temptation. Additionally, it can assist you in sticking to your monthly budget by researching any discounts, bargains, or promotions that supermarkets have available before making your purchases. Another effective technique to avoid impulsive buying is to utilise click-and-collect services. Don’t forget to take advantage of online-only specials and discounts as well. Check-out great half price specials for Woolworths here.

Try subscribing to a meal delivery service.

Image credit: EveryPlate

Meal delivery services make meal planning extremely easy and allow you to schedule your weekly dinners in advance. This saves you time, encourages you to cook more, and saves you money. You end up saving money because you’re not wasting food or ingredients. Because all of the meals are pre-portioned and prepped for you, you will never have too much of an ingredient. Meal delivery services are a budget-friendly alternative and can be excellent value for money. Making life easier, so you don’t have to think about what’s for dinner! Get up to $170 your first five boxes from Every Plate here.

Cut down on purchasing coffee.

For a lot of us, early mornings will often mean we crave that extra caffeine boost. However, deciding to cut back on these additional expenses can most definitely save you money. Try investing in a decent flask and making your coffee at home and bringing it with you on the bus or train and to work or when you’re meeting a friend for your usual coffee catch-up. Check out online discount coupons for free or half-price coffees in your local area here.

Wardrobe declutter.

It’s time for a fresh start. Why not spend a few hours on a Sunday afternoon pulling clothes out from the depths of your wardrobe or storage, and figure out whether or not you wish to keep them. Any clothes that you don’t wish to keep you can sell on Facebook marketplace. This is a great way to freshen up your look for the new year, making room for any new clothes and making some money on the ones you no longer want.

Take a fresh approach to budgeting.

Create and develop new habits. Creating and implementing a monthly budget is a fantastic way to ensure you know exactly where your money is going and when. Make sure to account for activities and nights out, by making sure these are accounted for you can feel less guilty about heading out and enjoying yourself with friends. There are many online resources and helpful apps to assist you in starting this positive habit. Check out the all-time #1 Australian bestseller book, The Barefoot Investor, and get your finances sorted over garlic bread and a glass of wine and manage your money in 10 minutes a week!

Plan your holidays.

Whether you are planning a big trip away, or just a short weekend away with friends, planning for your holiday can allow you to better budget and save for the trip. It will also allow you to take advantage of any sales or promotions on flights or accommodation. Save on travel and holidays with amazing discounts here.

Image Credit: hamiltonisland.com.au

How to save money on petrol & car servicing.

Ever wondered how you can save a few dollars when filling up at the petrol station? As petrol prices reach record highs in Australia, you may be often searching for deals or delaying filling up your tank in the hope of lower prices. Check out these genuine petrol discounts available for you to take advantage of today here.

Taking your car in for a service can be daunting. If you don’t have a regular mechanic you can depend on, you never know what to expect or how much it will cost. Save money on car repairs and services with trusted and reliable mechanics using discount coupons here.

Plan inexpensive days out or nights in.

By planning inexpensive nights in with friends, such as a home movie night or hosting a dinner party for your friends you can cut back on spending without skimping on quality time with friends. Pizza Hut has some delicious pizza deals from just $3 available here. Alternatively, plan a day trip and go exploring and visit some of the great walks and hikes Australia has to offer.

Useful Links:

While you’re not in control of changing global market dynamics, there are plenty of ways to save money and manage the rising cost of living. Here’s a list of guides to get you started.

Housing Guides:

First home buyer guide.

Track home loan interest rates.

Australia’s best home loans.

Banking Guides:

Australia’s best bank accounts.

Free yourself from debt.

Paying too much on your credit card?

Energy Guides:

Reduce your energy bills.

Compare energy plans.

Energy saving tips.

Want to start saving more now?

Become a member for free at: shopadocket.com.au or download the Free Shopadocket App to find and redeem discount offers. Play the Shopa docket game for your chance to win great gift card vouchers every day!

The Best Kid-friendly Activities to do in Australia

Keep the kids entertained with a range of activities from indoor play centres to adventure-filled theme parks and zoos. Read on to find our tips to enjoy low-cost or completely free activities that Australia has to offer. Packed with family-friendly activities, including close encounters with wildlife, thrilling museums, and beautiful beaches. You and your little ones will definitely have an awesome time!

Roar and Snore at Taronga Zoo

Image credit: Experience Oz

Head out on a night safari to see some of Taronga Zoos Sydney’s 4,000 animals from more than 350 species during their Roar and Snore program. You can help during feeding time, get some up-close-and-personal encounters with the zoo’s animals, and enjoy incredible harbor views from the safari-style campsite. The next day, you can see some of the zoo’s cutest furry residents by daylight, like the red kangaroos and koalas.

Check out other great deals from Taronga Zoo here.

Cuddle a Koala

Image credit: Experience Oz

There’s nothing as iconic as cuddling a cute koala – and there’s no better place to do it than the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, Fig Tree Pocket, Queensland. Kids can pet or hold the fuzzy animals – there are around 130 of them – or check out one of the other 70-plus animal species living at the sanctuary, like kangaroos, platypuses, and dingos. Plan your visit around one of the hand-feeding times for the kangaroos, wallabies, and lorikeets for an extra dose of fun (and photo opportunities with the kids).

Receive your entry & cruise discount offer for just $99 here.

Walking with dinosaurs in Canberra

Got an aspiring palaeontologist in the family? Check out Canberra’s National Dinosaur Museum, just a 15-minute drive north of the city. The museum features a massive collection of interactive animatronic dinosaurs, along with 23 complete skeletons and over 300 displays of individual fossils. Kids can also roam through the interactive dinosaur garden for an encounter with Canberra’s famous big dinosaur Stan the T-Rex.

Become a Dinosaur Museum member and receive special discounts on things like bringing friends, gift shop purchases, and birthday parties.

Village Roadshow Theme Parks Super Pass

Image credit: Experience Oz

Keep an eye on the combination passes and deals for the Village Roadshow Theme Parks on the Gold Coast. You can make the most of every moment with unlimited entry to 4 incredible theme parks with the Super Pass! It’s all the fun and excitement you could ever need on your next Gold Coast holiday. Get your 7-day pass discount coupon here for just $99. It’s cheaper than front gate prices & is the best value pass you can get.

Queensland is home to all the best theme parks and attractions, and you can experience them all for the best price by getting yourself a Super Pass you’ll enjoy all the best action in Queensland. With over 80 rides, shows, and attractions, there’s something for everyone!

Visit South Bank, Brisbane

southbank

There are so many fun things to do at South Bank, Brisbane, whether you want to spend a whole day or head in for a few hours. From family-friendly playgrounds and free museums to gardens perfect for family picnics and get-togethers.

There are three main swimming areas at South Bank. The swimming lagoons and all the facilities are free and open seven days a week. Streets Beach is the name given to the artificial beach and lagoon. With a lifeguard on duty seven days a week, this swimmable lagoon has a maximum depth of 1.8m. The lifeguard’s hours change seasonally, so it is worth contacting South Bank, especially in the off-season if you have little ones to keep an eye on.

The Boat Pool is a second lagoon close to Streets Beach with a depth of 0 – 1.1 metres. And it also has a lifeguard. 

Aquativity is the third water fun area at South Bank. This water play area is a popular spot in the hot summer months, featuring zero-depth with a splash zone with fountains, water jets, and tipping buckets. 

Facilities are excellent at South Bank with free public toilet facilities, underground parking (not cheap), and close to public transport drop-off points. You can also hire a stroller for a fee from the visitor information centre. 

South Bank offers two playgrounds. Picnic Island is a shaded playground located near BBQs and underneath a fig tree for all-day relaxed play. Riverside Green playground is the larger playground located right in the centre of South Bank. It features a multi-story play area with tunnel slides, hill slides, and swings. It is unfenced but with good visibility and plenty of places for parents to sit and watch nearby. It is also located close to toilets and cafes. 

Darling Quarter Playground: Play and Splash

Sydney has so many amazing kids’ playgrounds and the best part about it, is that they are absolutely free!  Visitors to Sydney who stay in the city or Darling Harbour will find the massive playground at Darling Harbour is an excellent space to let the kids run and play and burn off some energy.

There is a lot of water play there, some lovely river runs and splashing fountains, so do take your togs or a change of clothes.

There are several cafes and restaurants close to the playground, plus a kiosk serving drinks and snacks next to the playground. The range of play equipment is huge and suits children from toddlers to teenagers.

The one drawback is that this playground gets so busy at peak times, especially at the weekend. Get there early or late or during the week.

In Australia, you can have a great time without breaking the budget. It might sound like an impossible feat, but it turns out you can enjoy a fun family day out, with plenty of free or low cost things to do to help you save money – enjoy!

Best Pizza in Melbourne: Our Top 5 Picks

Top view group of young friends having pizza and beer. Best pizza in Melbourne list

Pizza holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of all Melbournians. Whether you’re a local craving a hot, cheesy slice of deliciousness, or a visitor keen to check out if Melbourne lives up to its ‘pizza capital of Australia’ rep, in this blog we share our top 5 spots to grab a pizza in Melbourne.

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What Your Coffee Order Says About You

A waitress holding and serving a cup of hot coffee in cafe

You’re at the café, pondering the type of drink to order. Suddenly, you’re thrown into a philosophical debate with yourself about whether you’re a cappuccino or flat white person. Depending on the different types of coffee orders, you’re exposing a lot about your personality.

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