Humpback and southern right whales will make a splash in Phillip Island waters these school holidays as they make their way north to winter breeding grounds.
The arrival of these majestic creatures is celebrated with The Island Whale Festival, a three-day event on Phillip Island that features a range of free and low-cost activities.
The popular event runs from 6-8 July and is the perfect opportunity to explore the Bass Coast Whale Discovery Trail which boasts some of the finest whale lookouts in the region.
Whale spotting is a highlight over the weekend, with visitors having the opportunity to experience the magical spectacle from either land or sea.
You can even meet a marine biologist at one of the island’s many whale lookouts and learn how to spot the tell-tale signs of whales cruising along the coast.
Those wanting to get closer to the marine giants can join one of the whale and dolphin watching boat tours that circumnavigate the island.
For the landlubbers, there are some great information sessions on marine research and plastic reduction as well as movie screenings and a host of activities including crafts.
Kids of all ages will enjoy the ‘Whale out of Water’ activity which involves climbing inside a 19-metre inflatable whale for a fun and unique learning experience.
For detailed program information on these and many more great activities happening in July, visit islandwhales.com.au
The Island Whale Festival can also be found on Facebook and on Instagram at @islandwhalefestival
To find accomodation and check out things to do on the island, head to www.visitphillipisland.com
Ice rink, penguins and an Antarctic journey…
The island, best known for its sandy beaches and penguins, is bursting at the seams with activities to keep the kids entertained during the colder months.
Ice skating is another great school holiday activity on Phillip Island, with ‘Churchill Ice-Land’ boasting stunning water views. Penguin pals are also there to give a helping flipper to young inexperienced ice skaters.
The pop-up ice rink will operate daily from Monday 9 July to Sunday 15 July between 11am and 3pm. Entry to the rink is free with a 4 Parks Pass, or you can pay a small $5 surcharge with a standard Churchill Island entry ticket. The 4 Parks Pass includes entry to the Penguin Parade, Churchill Island, the Koala Reserve, and the Antarctic Journey at the Nobbies, and as an added bonus, every child 4 Parks Pass holder that tries out ice skating will receive a free Mt Baw Baw child lift pass.
The Antarctic Journey, another great inclusion in the 4 Parks Pass, is also a great winter activity which is indoors and out of the elements. Take a virtual journey to the frozen continent and marvel at the interactive activities and augmented reality experience where you can reach out and touch a killer whale, stroke a seal, or pat a penguin.
Speaking of penguins, no visit to Phillip Island would be complete without a visit to the much-loved Penguin Parade, which is also included in a 4 Parks Pass. The penguins are cute year round, but the early winter sunset offers a great chance for your little ones to see them before bed time.
So what are you waiting for? Head on down to Phillip Island these holidays for some great winter fun. For more information, visit www.penguins.org.au
Check out the Grand Prix Circuit…
Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit is the go to destination for the entire family with hours of entertainment on offer all year round.
There are go-karts, tandems, slot cars, a simulator race centre and super-fast hot laps.
History buffs can take a step back in time at a thorough racing display dating back to 1928. Nature lovers will enjoy the tranquil watered gardens and beautiful wildlife, while foodies can enjoy great coffee and a scrumptious array of sweets and savouries. There really is something for everyone.
For more information call 5952 9400 or visit www.phillipislandcircuit.com.au
Take the kids to Phillip Island RSL…
The RSL is hosting two children’s events to help mark the popular Island Whale Festival, from 6-8 July.
A workshop featuring Trash Puppets kicks off a long weekend of fun. The workshop at 1.30pm on Friday 6 July will have kids’ creative juices flowing as they learn to create puppets using recyclable products. It’s a fun event which demonstrates the importance of correct recycling.
The recycling theme continues on Friday evening as the RSL hosts a special trivia night in the ANZAC Room from 7.15pm. All proceeds from the trivia night will go to Plastic Free Phillip Island and San Remo as well as the Dolphin Research Institute.
The RSL will host a second children’s event at 1.30pm on Saturday 7 July, with a very special guest known as Seaweed Sally. Kids aged between 5 and 12 years will learn about the mysterious world of marine life from Seaweed Sally and get to see her fascinating array of exhibits, including preserved specimens and touch tank animals.
Bookings are essential for both children’s workshops and trivia night at the Phillip Island RSL as places are limited. To book, visit islandwhales.com.au
To learn more about joining Phillip Island RSL, as well as its Joey’s Kid’s Club, visit www.phillipislandrsl.com.au
