[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Junior Rangers is a free program by Parks Victoria aimed at getting kids exploring local parks, gardens, forests, bushland and waterways all around Victoria. Events are normally held every day of school holidays but also on selected weekends.
For the first time ever the Junior Rangers program is being held at Werribee Park. We are pretty regular visitors of Werribee Park for special events such as So Frenchy So Chic and The Lost Lands music festival, but I confess we have never really delved deeply into the park itself.
We meet the park ranger at the entrance of the stunning Werribee Mansion, historic home of the Chirnside family.
Each child is given a tree hunting activity sheet where the names of certain trees are used to unlock a clue about the name of the Chirnside’s beloved dog, who happens to be buried under one of the trees.
Find Hotels and Airbnbs near Werribee Park
Along the way we learn a few facts about Moreton Bay Figs, Bunya Bunya Pines and the difference between evergreen and deciduous trees.
During our tree hunt, we pass an ornamental fountain, glasshouses and a parterre garden bed. There are all areas of the park I’ve never noticed before!
The final activity has every child pot up succulent cuttings taken from the gardens into a decorative pot. Each creation looks unique and beautiful and the kids are thrilled to take something of their own home. Every child also takes home a free badge.
Junior Rangers state that the activity is suitable for children aged 6-12 (who must be accompanied by a parent or guardian). We have a 4-year-old with us and I think it’s still ok, as long as he/she is happy to walk for up to an hour.
Technically Junior Rangers events require pre-registration. However, we sign up for the waitlist for our sold out session then turn up hoping that there are no-shows. Fortunately, the park ranger is happy to have us along.
To check if there’s a Junior Rangers event near you just select a park on the map of Victoria and sign up for one of the many Junior Ranger activities. It’s also a good idea to sign up to the Junior Ranger mailing list so you can be informed when school holiday bookings open and new events are open for bookings. You can also download activities to complete anytime.
If you’re staying at Werribee Park take a ride on the Little Red Train
Werribee Zoo; and Shadowfax Wines are also part of the precinct
For more child-friendly walks around Melbourne – Alfred Nicholas Gardens, Redwood Forest Warburton, Rainforest Gallery Warburton, Lerderderg Gorge and Brimbank Park.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text el_class=”thon-hot-tips-panel”]HOT Tips:
- Bring a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle and sturdy shoes (no thongs or open toe shoes);
- All children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian;
- Technically only children registered can attend the activity. However, if a session is sold out still sign up for the waitlist as there are generally no-shows;
- You’ll be taking home a medium size pot at the end, so plan your session for the end of your visit to Werribee Park; and
- Activities may be cancelled during extreme weather conditions and you will be contacted via email or the mobile number provided.
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