“CityNews” rounds up some of the Canberra region’s best activities that the whole family can enjoy over the school break.

WHETHER it’s seeing a live show, getting up close to some friendly birds or learning with Lego, there’s plenty of activities to keep the kids engaged and entertained these school holidays.

This week “CityNews” rounds up some of the Canberra region’s best activities that the whole family can enjoy over the school break.

Showmen brings jaw-dropping magic to school holidays

WITH more than 15 years of magic experience, Mike Tyler and Christopher Wayne – also known as The Naked Magicians – say they are putting their clothes back on and coming to Canberra Theatre Centre on April 15.

“‘Showmen – The Ultimate Magic Spectacular’, brings together the biggest names in Australian magic, a supergroup of conjurers, tricksters, comedians, illusions and stunts,” says Mike.

“Showmen is a family-friendly, jaw-dropping spectacle, bringing the magic of live entertainment back.”

Mike says he and Chris produce and perform because they’re passionate about live performances that actually entertain.

“There’s something special about enjoying live magic, circus, stunts and comedy right in front of your eyes, instead of through screens,” he says.

“Showmen” also stars “Australia’s Got Talent” semi-finalist Josh Norbido, Sophie Monk’s love interest from “The Bachelorette” Apollo Jackson, and Joel “The Cirque Stuntman” Fenton.

“I think more than ever people want to enjoy themselves, have a laugh, be amazed, and forget about their worries at the theatre for a couple of hours,” says Mike.

“Perfect for adults, teenagers and children aged 7+, ‘Showmen’ is set to take Australia by storm.”

Showmen – The Ultimate Magic Spectacular, at Canberra Theatre Centre, April 15. Shows at 2pm and 6.45pm. Visit officialshowmen.com

Get kids creative and screen-free these school holidays

BRICKS 4 Kidz is a Canberra institution that has entertained thousands of children since it was established in 2017, says owner Mark Jefferies.

“Our holiday workshops are unique: we run full-day programs where children work at a number of different Lego stations to give them variety, which includes motorised Lego Technic and traditional Lego bricks with instructions and bags of free play where they are encouraged to use their own imagination.”

What sets Bricks 4 Kidz apart, says Mark, is its amazing instructors who love teaching kids.

“We have a passion for providing a fun and nurturing environment for all of our little builders,” he says, “and it’s screen-free fun.”

And, the workshops are customised to the age of the children and are educational.

“Children will learn basic STEM concepts through the use of motors and gears with our LEGO Technic.”

Bricks 4 Kidz. Call 0481 240311, or visit bricks4kidz.com.au/act-northside

Inclusive fun for everyone

FINDING affordable and fun things to do for young people can be a challenge, says Northside Community Service manager Kate Malone.

“Which is why Northside Community Service is providing two new weekly activities and events for 12-25-year-olds during school terms,” she says.

“Our Dickson drop-in runs from 2.30pm to 5pm every Tuesday and Wednesday at the Majura Community Centre.

“With free wifi, snacks and drinks, board games, badge making and more, it’s a safe place for young people to hang out with their friends after school.

“Youth workers will also be around if anyone needs some extra support, or just a chat.”

Kate says they are a non-judgemental and supportive place to ask for help.

“Every Friday from 3pm to 4pm – except public holidays – young people can drop in to our tennis club at the courts opposite the Majura Community Centre,” she says.

“Twelve to 25-year-olds can drop in and serve up a storm – racquets and balls are supplied.

“Northside is a safe and inclusive space for all, so drop in and connect with us and other young people in the community. There’s a lot happening for everyone at Northside, including during school holidays, so keep an eye out.”

Northside Community Service, 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson. Call 6171 8000, or visit northside.asn.au

Entertainment for the whole family

STARDUST Circus is 30 years old, and has a variety of acts suitable for all ages to kick off the school holidays, says owner Jan Lennon.

“Come and experience the fantastic array of talent and fun, all under one big top,” she says.

“From aerial and flying trapeze, to dog, goat, pony and comedy acts, there is definitely no dull moment.”

Jan says of her seven kids and 22 grandkids, 16 family members are in the show.

“Owned and operated by fifth and sixth-generation performers, we have entertainment in our blood and know exactly how to put on a show,” she says.

“It’s a great family show, a really incredible program, and it’s grown a lot in 30 years.”

It is running in Monash, until April 2 and the Gungahlin season will run through school holidays perfectly, says Jan.

“Gungahlin is happening through the Easter period, from April 6 to 23,” she says.

“And then we head to Queanbeyan to perform from April 27 to May 14.”

“Kids are sure to love it, but don’t take our word for it, come and experience it yourself.”

Stardust Circus. Call 0418 247287, or visit stardustcircus.com.au

Aviary offers a great time amongst the birds

PARROTS, finches, doves and quail are among the birds ready to interact at the Canberra Walk-in Aviary, says owner and manager Mick Logan. 

The aviary is great fun for all ages. Now is the best time to get up close and personal with a range of friendly, free-flying birds, he says.

“While not all birds will interact with you, visitors get the chance to observe, up close, species of birds that otherwise would be hard to see in the wild,” Mick says. 

“We provide a small plate of food and a tub of mealworms and you can wander around and feed the birds. 

“Provided the weather is fine, you can have a great time feeding the birds, taking photos or just observing our feathered friends.”

The aviary is a 1000sqm planted walk-in enclosure that has more than 500 birds from about 65 different species from Australia and the world, Mick says. 

Gold Creek Village has three other attractions, as well as cafes, gift shops and a garden centre, so it’s a great place for a day out after visiting the aviary.

The aviary is open every day, until the end of April, 10am-5pm, with last admissions at 4.30pm.

Canberra Walk-in Aviary, unit 13, Federation Square, O’Hanlon Place, Nicholls. Call 6230 2044 or visit canberrawalkinaviary.com.au

Creative expression through learning

TUGGERANONG Arts Centre is running three school-holiday programs that will give children a chance to show off their creativity, says CEO Caroline Downer.

“Art and action will be in the first week of the school holidays, on April 13 and 14, offering day programs in art, dance and drama,” she says.

“It gives the opportunity for trialling painting, hip hop and drama in a fun environment where the kids can learn at the same time.

“There’s a littlies group for kids between the ages of six and eight, or a primary group for nine to 12 year olds.”

In the second week of school holidays, the ANU School of Music will run a hip hop song-writing workshop.

“It’s happening on April 18 with Daniel Kirkland,” says Caroline.

“It’s a way for the kids to show off their own voice. They will be given techniques, tools and production skills to present their final piece.”

On April 20, kids and teens are invited to paint a lake-facing wall with mural artist Karri McPherson.

“Karri uses vibrant colours, patterns and shapes to bring new life to spaces,” says Caroline.

“She can always bring a smile through her murals, and it will be a very positive experience.

“Come down and have fun transforming the wall into colourful artwork.”

Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 137 Reed Street, Greenway. Call 6293 1443 or visit tuggeranongarts.com/events/art-action-school-holiday-program/

Pancakes to brighten school holidays

OWNED and run by father and daughter David and Ashlinn Reid, there are years of hospitality experience backing Stella’s By The Lake.

David and Ashlinn say Stella’s provides a friendly and warm cafe experience where everyone is welcome.

The cafe in Belconnen is offering $9.50 kids’ menu pancakes throughout the school holidays, says Ashlinn.

“We’re dog friendly, and we have a lovely, nice grass space across from Lake Ginninderra for kids to play on,” she says.

“We also offer kids milkshakes and juices, baby chinos and a variety of cakes and ice creams.”

David says Stella’s focus is on simple but good food, and creating a relaxed and happy atmosphere.

“Stella’s is making a great name for itself with locals, shoppers, families, office workers and, of course, lake walkers who enjoy the all-day breakfast and lunch menu options, coffee and drinks that also include alcoholic beverages and sweet treats.”

Over the Easter holidays, Stella’s will have some changes to opening hours.

“We will be closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday,” says Ashlinn.

“But, on Easter Saturday and Monday the cafe and kitchen will be open from 8am until 2pm.”

Stella’s By The Lake, 63/1 Beissel Street, Belconnen. Call 6253 0370.

Sweet treats that span the generations

LOLLY Swagman has been exploring new tastes for nearly three decades, says owner Ian Richardson.

Located in the heart of the Southern Highlands, the lolly shop stocks all-time favorite treats and the latest-trending tastes from around the world.

“We’ve got American Reese’s, Hershey’s and candy corn, English bon bons and chocolates, sours and super sours, Dutch liquorice, Scottish tablet and our own Mrs Swag’s Fudge,” says Ian.

“We lost count at 1300 different treats and we know it’s more that that.”

Ian says the store is a common stop on people’s trips to Berrima.

“It’s a happy place with kids excitedly exploring for new tastes, older people reminiscing and sharing in the thrill of finding a favorite and the great stories that go with them,” he says.

“We often see people who’d come as children now bringing in their own children and sharing their experiences, which is lovely to be allowed to join in on. It’s nice to have that history.”

Lolly Swagman, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima. Call 4877 1137, or visit lollyswagman.com.au