Your Local Guide to Summer
Your Local Guide to Summer
After 224 days of lockdown in 2020 (yikes!), chances are you’re ready to get out and about and make the most of the warmer weather. Whether it’s canoeing at Lysterfield Lake or relaxed afternoons at D’Angelo Estate, make the most of the outdoors with our favourite summer activities that the whole family can enjoy.
WILSON BOTANIC PARK BERWICK
With 39 hectares of natural wonderland, Wilson Botanic Park Berwick dates back to 1859 when it was founded as a quarry. It was developed as a public amenity in the 1980s and is now cherished by the community for its conservation, education and recreational value. Take a leisurely stroll around Anniversary Lake, admiring the beautiful mature trees including eucalypts, cape chestnuts and poplars. Bird lovers will relish spotting up to 80 different species of birdlife, while the kids will love the Little Red Train ride and ball games area. Access via gates at Princes Hwy, Bournevale & Kramar Drives, Berwick.
CRANBOURNE BOTANICAL GARDENS
Cranbourne Gardens is one of Victoria’s most precious areas of remnant native bushland and offers visitors the chance to explore heathlands, wetlands and woodlands on the 363-hectare site. Visitors can enjoy picnics on the lawns, a natural bushland experience and visit the Australian Garden, which celebrates the beauty and diversity of Australian landscapes and flora and features approximately 170,000 plants as well as the outback inspired Red Sand Garden. There are also over ten kilometres of walking tracks and six kilometres of cycling tracks. Located on the corner of Ballarto Road and Botanic Drive, Cranbourne.
LYSTERFIELD LAKE
With Lysterfield to the North and Endeavour Hills to the West, Lysterfield Lake attracts locals of all ages. In fact, the gentle waters make it one of the best family swimming spots in the state! Popular activities include canoeing, kayaking, birdwatching and paddle boarding. The lake is also a great place for non-powered boating and sailing, as there is a boat launching and rigging zone.
LAKESIDE RECREATION RESERVE PAKENHAM
With its well-maintained level pathways, the lush greenery of Lakeside Recreation Reserve offers improved access for those with prams, scooters or wheelchairs. There’s also a sports oval, BBQ and picnic area, public toilets and kids playground. Did someone say ‘picnic’? Access via Shearwater Boulevard, Pakenham.
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SUMMER FUN UNLOCKED – GUMBUYA WORLD
Unlock your cool! Unlock your loud! Unlock your wild! Celebrate summer with your friends and family at Victoria’s home of cool action, loud laughs and wild adventure, Gumbuya World. Take the plunge on epic water slides, spin out on awesome rides and say hello to Pebble, our newest baby koala! As Victoria’s ONLY water, wildlife and theme park you’ll get unlimited access to our 4 worlds of fun in just one ticket. Just 50 minutes from Melbourne CBD! Gotta get to Gumbuya. Gumbuya.com.au
LOCAL FOOD AND WINE
If you love a drop of local vino, D’Angelo Estate Vineyard offers tastings and dine-in options off Bayview Rd, Officer. Book ahead to enjoy a grazing menu of their finest tapas and a selection of gourmet pizzas. Don’t forget to try their famous pinot noir! In Upper Beaconsfield, Carlei Green Vineyards pride themselves on environmentally responsible viticulture that results in quality organic wines. Their cellar door and pizzeria is warm and welcoming, surrounded by a rolling hills vista of the Dandenongs.
FARMERS MARKETS
Fresh food and coffee, local produce and hand-crafted goods. What’s not to love about farmer’s markets? Local favourites include:
Arkoonah Park Sunday Market, Belgrave Big Dreams Market (2nd Sunday of the month),
Emerald Market (3rd Sunday of the month) and Gembrook Market (4th Sunday of the month).
The convenient scheduling means there’s a market to choose from every Sunday, although this may change on or around public holidays. Always check beforehand to avoid disappointment.
LAKESIDE PADDLE BOATS EMERALD
Located on Lake Treganowan, Lakeside Paddleboats is a great way to get out and enjoy the fresh air. The two-person paddle boats are easy to ride and loads of fun! Note that children’s age and size requirements apply; children under 9 must paddle with an adult. Life jackets are supplied free. Lakeside Paddleboats also closes on days of extreme heat or if there is high chance of rain, so call ahead if you’re unsure. You can even make a day of it and take a ride on Puffing Billy, Melbourne’s iconic steam railway.
