With international travel restrictions still in place, families are looking locally for activities that are fun, active, exciting and within budget.
The Hills has a range of family-friendly parks, reserves and attractions that are close to home and provide children of all ages the opportunity to play, learn and most importantly – to be themselves.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Michelle Byrne said now was the perfect time for residents to explore their own backyard.
"We have many great local parks and reserves which are perfect for a picnic or family day out. Most have playground equipment to keep the little ones occupied as well as barbeque facilities," Mayor Byrne said.
"One park that stands out for me is Livvi's Place at Bernie Mullane Reserve. It has an all-abilities playground, water play and plenty of open space to enjoy the great outdoors.
"Wisemans Ferry Park, which was recently closed due to the recent flood, is now open again. It's the perfect opportunity to go on a scenic drive to our rural north, and support businesses who have been impacted by the floods.
"We have learn to ride tracks at Crestwood Reserve, Coolong Reserve and at Twickenham Reserve, which are suitable for children learning how to ride, as well as knowing more about the road rules with the miniature roundabouts and stop signs.
"And we also have some pram-friendly walking tracks, including Knightsbridge Circuit walk and the Heritage Park bushwalk, that are both great to explore nature and enjoy some physical fitness in the process," Mayor Byrne added.
Mayor Byrne said Hills Shire Libraries were another option, that were both fun and educational.
"Our Hills Shire Libraries also have an extensive repertoire of reading materials, and our ever-popular workshops are returning after COVID-19 restrictions were eased," Mayor Byrne said.
"We have a May The Fourth Be With You Trivia night happening on May 4 for teenagers aged 12-14 years at Castle Hill Library.
"And our younger residents still have time to complete my Magical Colouring Challenge. All completed templates get a special prize (while stocks last) and they also go on public exhibition at Castle Hill Library until May 21," Mayor Byrne added.
The ever popular Baby Bounce and Toddler Storytime sessions have also returned to Hills Shire Libraries.
For more information about activities and resource available at your local Hills Shire Library branch, visit: thehills.nsw.gov.au/Library.
For more information on parks and reserves near you, visit: thehills.nsw.gov.au/Venues/Parks-Recreation/Parks-Recreation-Directory.
