What is Earth Day?

Climate banners made by children during a Children’s Art Centre activity trial related to the Raquel Ormella project.

Every year on April 22, Earth Day marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement of 1970.  After decades of ecological carelessness – deforestation, oil spills, pollution, toxic dumps, pesticides and more – the loss of wildlife and valuable landscapes and the effect this was having on our planet could no longer be ignored.  A movement started, and on August 22nd, 1970, nearly 20 million people across America took to the streets, parks, and auditoriums to protest against the impact.

In the years since then, Earth Day and the drive to do more to support environmental protection has grown in force. Today, Earth Day is widely recognised as the largest secular observance in the world, and more than a billion people mark every year as a day of action to change human behaviour and create global, national, and local policy changes.

How can your family help on Earth Day?

Change starts with action. 

It is a simple statement, but four words have never rung more true when it comes to saving our planet and looking after the environment and wildlife that live here. We should teach our kids that no one should feel like they have to change the whole world in one day, but that if we all make small changes in our day-to-day lives, the difference it makes over time can be substantial. 

This Earth Day, simply raising awareness about the annual event, actively working on ways to change your own daily habits to be more environmentally friendly, and looking for activities to help support this is a great way to start. Below are a range of different ways you can help educate and celebrate Earth Day with your kids.

Creative ways to celebrate Earth Day

Make your own paper

Learn how to save the planet, one tree at a time, by teaching the kids how to make their own recycled paper.

Sew your own recyclable bag

If your kids love to sew, or even if you love to use a hot glue gun, get some scraps of material and help them make their own cloth bag to use at the shops and for school.

Create a terrarium

There are plenty of websites that show you how you can make your own living indoor plant world with the kids.  We love this simple one by Nasa Climate Kids.

Create your own paper mache planet Earth

A great way to get creative, have fun and learn more about our planet, the continents and where they all are in relation to one another is to make your own paper mache Earth!

Gardening way to celebrate Earth Day

Start a small herb or flower garden

As simple as it sounds, starting a small herb or flower garden with the kids is a great way to teach the kids about proper plant care whilst also educating them about plant biology and growth.

Create a butterfly garden

Butterflies are a beautiful addition to any growing garden and our article on how to create your own butterfly garden is a great way to encourage them to come.  Teach your children about how to protect butterflies and ways to make your backyard a safe haven for them.

Create a bird feeder

Using a paper roll, some string and some bird seed, you can create your own backyard bird feeder with your kids.  Of course, you can always put some out for the local birds on a plate, but making your own one that can hang in a tree is so much more fun.  Research which seeds are best for the birds in your area and away you go!

Create a frog hotel

Frog hotels are not only easy to make, but they are also a great way to encourage local frogs to visit your garden.  It is a wonderful animal for your children to study and learn from their own home!

Fun Experiments and Activities to educate kids on Earth Day

Play a game of nature bingo

This is a simple activity that the kids will love. Make up some bingo cards for the kids with different nature elements and animals on them. Take them on a walk and see who can cross off all of their board first!

Oil Spill Experiment

Understanding just how much impact an oil spill has on our waters and the animals within it is an important lesson the kids can learn from this simple oil spill experiment.

Active ways to celebrate Earth Day

Go on a nature walk

Heading out for a day immersed in nature is a fantastic way to get the kids thinking about our environment and how beautiful and precious it is. We have a list of the best family-friendly walks in Brisbane you may want to explore.

Visit a wildlife sanctuary

There are plenty of wildlife sanctuaries in and around Brisbane that offer kids a chance to interact with animals up close while learning about their conservation. One of our personal favourites is the Daisy Hill Koala Centre.  

Embark on a wildlife experience

Many places in and around Brisbane offer kids a hands-on animal experience, where they can get close to our wildlife and learn about them too.  Places like Berrinba Wetlands offer walkways, bird hides, and even an interpretative centre overflowing with wildlife and information.  

Clean up your neighbourhood

Picking up some rubbish and putting it in the bin helps our environment.  Organise a group of family members or friends and head out to your local area.   Make a fun game of it and see who can pick up the most. You can even make a scavenger hunt list and see who can find the most items on it as they go!

Small ways you can support Earth Day

Make a lights on graph

Get the kids to note how many lights are on during the day and at night without anyone needing them. See how many are on and for how long, and then, with the data, they can create a graph.

Limit your shower time

Limiting your shower to only 2 minutes each night can go a long way towards saving water. Buying a 2-minute egg-timer for the ballroom wall is a fun way to keep track of this while you are getting clean.

Check your water usage

Not just in the shower, there are many other ways we use water that can be minimised to save water. For example, you can turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth and only turn it on to rinse, put a timer on your water sprinkler, add special attachments to hoses and taps so that the water pressure is lower, etc. These are all great things you can do each day that will make a difference overall.

Go screen-free for a day

Unplug those iPads and phones and spend the day screen-free.  Save on power and do your part to help save energy.

Use more recyclable items

Make a note of the products you buy, and try to stick to ones with recyclable packaging.  Most importantly, make sure you put them in the correct bin (with nothing else) so that it can be recycled come collection day.

Make some cash and help the environment

Cash for cans (and other listed products) is an excellent way for kids to help the environment through recycling and also earn some pocket money on the side.  Save your cans and plastic bottles and then when you have a bag full take them to your local Containers for Change point and cash in!

Make your next meal plant-based

There is no need to go vegetarian or vegan if you usually enjoy a meat-filled diet. However, maybe on Earth Day this year, you can try to make your meals all plant-based. Maybe even try out a new recipe with the kids and bake something vegan. If they love it, you can add this as a new item to their lunchbox regularly!

Big ways you can support Earth Day

If you and your kids are looking to play a bigger role in supporting the Earth Day movement, jump on their website. You will find a page dedicated to ways you can take action and help out. From planting a forest to joining a clean-up, donating, and volunteering, there are plenty of ways that your kids can help celebrate Earth Day in a big way, too.

Remember, big or small, every step you take to protect our planet is important.  Even just educating our kids about the need to do this and why is a great way to celebrate and support Earth Day with your kids.

Not only is it vital for developing literacy, a good vocabulary and a vivid imagination, it also allows children to dream big, be inspired and fall in love with the many characters and stories which fill the well-worn pages of their books.

Story time doesn’t need to be monotonous, Thanks to the Global Space Education Foundation Story Time From Space is now a real thing, and it is every bit inspiring and engaging as it sounds.

Story Time….FROM SPACE

Born from the desire to introduce and encourage STEM to children Story Time From Space is a brilliant initiative dreamed up by educator Patricia Tribe and astronaut Alvin Drew. 

The premise is simple – real astronauts are filmed as they gently float within their space station and read a science-themed children’s book to a camera. 

Astronaut Storytelling

These videos are not only intriguing but also a little mesmerising, easily succeeding in their mission to inspire and engage young minds.

In each clip, you are introduced to the astronaut who will be reading a book to the camera but as soon as the video cuts to them it is immediately apparent this is going to be different to anything your child may have seen before. 

While the astronaut introduces and reads the story, it is all the incredible things going on in the background that will instantly draw the audience in (both young and old).  

The videos are filmed by the astronauts and edited prior to being uploaded and include cutaway close-up shots of the book’s illustrated pages as well.  Some of these include small animated sections or pans to help illustrate the tale.  

On top of this, at the end of some videos, we learn a little more about the featured astronaut.  

Aside from being science-themed, the chosen books have a wide range of reading levels (though all can be read in 15 minutes or less) and cover a range of STEM topics, from physics to engineering to biology.

What We Thought About Story Time from Space

There are so many obvious reasons why we love this initiative.  Aside from the fact it is a super cool alternative to hearing a story, it also allows for so much more learning to occur.

So far, my children and I have watched four of these videos.  Each one a couple of times (at least). With ages ranging from 3 to 8, the level of understanding as to where the astronauts are, what they are doing, why they are doing it and how it is that we are able to watch them varies greatly and I find that at numerous times throughout the video I need to pause it so that we can explore some of their questions.  

How to make the most of the space read

Do a watch-through first, to hear the story uninterrupted.  Then, watch again, stopping to answer questions.  And believe me, there are usually lots!  

Even more awesome is the fact the stories are read by astronauts of different ages, gender and nationality – which is a fantastic way to demonstrate to children that regardless of who you are or where you come from you really can achieve anything you put your mind to.

Who is going to enjoy this?

Children of all-ages (even the cool big kids who think they are too old to be read to) will love Story Time from Space. Those with a keen interest in STEM and space will particularly love these videos. 

Although not intended to replace the one-on-one adult-child reading time, these videos are a great option for mixing things up and adding a little excitement to the usual routine every now and then.  

Science Time From Space

With all the popularity of Story Time From Space, the team have now begun creating science experiments in space.

Science Time From Space has been designed to complement the concepts found within the selected children’s books and cover key concepts from the science curriculum  including heat transfer, light, buoyancy, the effect of gravity on humans and more.

What better way to introduce STEM to our children too, than via the wonderful real world of storytelling from space?  

Urban Play’s Best Inner Brisbane Playgrounds

Riverside Green

Riverside Green, Southbank

Ken Fletcher Park, Tennyson

Chalk Street Park (Vera Canale Park), Lutwyche

Fernwood Park, Taigum

Sir John Chandler Park, Indooroopilly

Urban Play’s Best South-West Brisbane and Ipswich Playgrounds

Ripley Adventure Park

Spring Mountain Lagoon Park, Spring Mountain

Flagstone Adventure Playground, Undullah

Tucker Family Park, Bellbird Park

Robelle Domain, Springfield

Orion, Springfield

Hilltop Adventure Park, Collingwood Park

Ripley Adventure Park, South Ripley

Urban Play’s Best South Brisbane Playgrounds

Calamvale District Park

Thrush Street Park, Inala

D.M. Henderson Park, MacGregor

Homestead Park, Shailer Park

O’Gorman Street Park, Alexandra Hills

Buxton Park, Yarrabilba

Yugarapul Park, Sunnybank

Alexander Clark Park, Loganholme

Hilltop Park, Ormeau Hills

Whites Hill Recreation Reserve, Whites Hill

Calamvale District Park, Calamvale

Urban Play’s Best North Brisbane Playground

Amity Park

Ridgeview Park, Narangba

Spinnaker Park, Newport

The Green, Carseldine

Summerstone, Morayfield

Amity Park, Narangba 

Lemke Park, Albany Creek

Along with Urban Play’s impressive list of best Brisbane playgrounds, you might also be interested in checking out our list of the Best Brisbane Playgrounds.

Who are Urban Play?

Flagstone Adventure Park

Urban Play has grown into one of the most reputable playground suppliers in the Australian market, completing over 8,000 play and fitness spaces. By no means your average playgrounds, the company’s designs are quite often mind-blowing to behold, with their themed elements, creative builds and towering constructions an easy marker.  

With a base in Brisbane, the company’s focus on play value, creativity, sustainability, inclusivity and innovation is clear to see, with their quality products developed to withstand our harsh Australian climate and create happy and healthy communities.

Urban Play – The best playground designers in Queensland?

Orion Playground

It’s a big call, but from a team who have reviewed A LOT of playgrounds over the years, it is one we are happy to make for us. Their list of awards may support this, but if you head to any of their playgrounds, you will know what we mean.  

Built from the ground up, the team states they relish the challenge of turning ideas into concepts and sketches into reality – and we believe them! The quality of their materials and equipment is unmistakable, and they take great pride in creating unique areas of play that not only spark imagination but offer challenging and adventurous play for all age groups.

Although many of their playgrounds feature elements like giant, twisting metal slides and sky-high netted rope bridges, safety is paramount and children can be challenged without concern. It’s not only these extensive features that we love, though. Their playgrounds are usually themed, and the adorable abstract constructions and characters woven into the space make imaginative play a big factor for the kids.

Bluey Locations to Visit in Brisbane

South Bank, South Brisbane

Episode: Ice Cream

Brissy locals love South Bank and now it appears even the fictional variety is obsessed with it too. In the ‘Ice Cream’ episode, Bluey’s family spend an entire day here, cooling down at the iconic Streets Beach and Aquativity areas and playing beneath the picturesque South Bank Arbour.  

The Wheel of Brisbane and QPAC, South Brisbane

Episode: Ice Cream

In the same episode where Bluey hits South Bank there are other well-known Brisbane landmarks that you can take your own kids to as well.  Watch for shots of both the Wheel of Brisbane and QPAC.

Wynnum Whale Park

Episode: Pass the Parcel

Wynnum Whale Park is one of our favourite bayside destinations and we love that this fun, family-friendly area also features in Bluey. Although not precisely the same, in ‘Pass the Parcel, ‘ the park where Buddy holds his birthday party is also a playground by the sea, featuring low-to-grown spurting whales and plenty of shaded seating gazebos. 

New Farm Park

Episode: Spy Game

New Farm Park is the home of many a family picnic, and for the Bluey family it is no different.  In the episode ‘Spy Game’ you can spot many of the park’s well-known landmarks, including the Brisbane Powerhouse and Rotunda. Any budding ballerina may even want to emulate Bingo’s classic ballet moves while visiting this central feature.

Brisbane International Airport

Episode: Curry Quest

The terminal which Bandit is shown flying out of in ‘Curry Quest’ is directly designed off of Brisbane’s International Terminal, including its arrivals hall. Incredibly busy, the airport’s long winding ramp up to drop off and pick up zones is a dead giveaway!

If you have a few hours layover in Brisbane you might benefit from finding some playgrounds located near Brisbane airport. 

Benjamin Place Park

Episode: Turtleboy

Benjamin Place Park in The Gap gets its very own special mention in the ‘Turtleboy’ episode of Bluey.  Only small, the park’s swing set and surrounding park area is the setting for this beautiful episode where Bingo and Dougie play separately.  

The Gap

Episode: Pass the Parcel

Residents of the Brisbane suburb, The Gap, must be pretty chuffed that they reside in the suburb that closely resembles the area that Bluey’s family (and friends) may live.  Not only does the surrounding suburb in scenes strike familiar, in ‘Pass the Parcel’ Missy’s invite shows the words ‘The Gap’.  Just 10km west of Brisbane, a drive through the area is like you are heading to their house for a playdate.

Hammerbarn

Episode: Hammerbarn

Hammerbarn, the hardware store in the Bluey episode with the same name, is a direct copy of the Bunnings Warehouse in Keperra.  Even the logo – the symbol of a hammer – resembles the Bunnings one.

Ashgrove Library

Episode: Promises

Next time you feel like visiting one of the Brisbane City Libraries, maybe take your Bluey-obsessed family to the one at Ashgrove. In the episode ‘Promises’, the whole family visit the library and the one they go to has been modelled off Ashgrove library.  Even the cafe and playground in the episode exist in real life – with just a few minor changes.

Hill End Terrace Park West End

Episode: Seesaw

Another Brisbane playground that gets an authentic replica in Bluey is Hill End Terrace Park in West End. Its standout features, which include a giant frog whose long pink tongue forms one of the playground’s slides and some storybook murals, can be seen in the cartoon.

Wittonga Park

Episode: Cricket

The birthday party in ‘Cricket’ takes place at Wittonga Park in The Gap and the crew from Bluey did a fantastic job replicating it. From the central cricket pitch to the winding pathways, the gazebo and benches – even the sloped-roofed toilet block is a match! 

We think it won’t be long before even more famous Brisbane landmarks, natural attractions and favourite hotspots are spotted in future Bluey episodes. Watch this space and please comment below with any new ones so we can include them in the article!

Although being keen to remove any trace of dirt and bacteria from their sweet little bodies may be an impulse formed from protective good intentions, there are many reasons to hold off and let your child enjoy their messy play a little longer.  Not only because those mud-splattered little faces are usually sporting cheek-wide grins, but because research actually shows that playing in the mud has many physical and emotional benefits for children.

So what is mud play? 

Simply put, mud play is any soil, dirt or sand that is wet. Whether these are muddy flats left behind by receding tides, a sandpit damp from recent rainfall or a self-made pile of hosed down dirt in the backyard, it may be the stuff of nightmares for parents and their laundry machines – but it is a pure playground dream for the kids.

Squishy, sticky, mouldable and full of imaginative fun for little people, it is also a form of nature play that experts say has considerable benefits to a developing child.  

The push to re-introduce more mud play 

As silly as it may seem, gone are the days when childhood was naturally filled with mud play opportunities daily.  When I grew up, it was nothing to come in from a day of outdoor exploration and play covered in mud from head-to-toe. And I was not the only one!  This was most definitely the norm for most of the neighbourhood kids I knew.

There is increasing evidence that today’s society is “too clean”, and that this is a contributor to increased levels of childhood illnesses, including immune disorders and allergies.  Today, with parents working more and devices, electronics and extra-curricular programs leaving children with minimal time to spend playing in their backyard, these opportunities for spontaneous mud play have seemingly disappeared.

With research highlighting the benefits for children to be involved in outdoor play, and in particular unstructured messy mud play, childhood educators are now implementing it more into their programs and encouraging parents to do the same.

The benefits of Playing in the Mud for Kids

So, what are the benefits to playing in mud for kids?  Well, the list is actually huge!  Below we have listed just some of the many reasons why playing in the mud is good for kids.

Playing in Mud boosts their immune system

Most parents who fear mud play do so because it is seen as unhygienic and bacteria-ridden.  The fact that kids may immerse themselves in the dirt and possibly even ingest some in the process leaves them worried about what other small germs their child may be getting exposed to. Whilst it is true that children who play in the mud may be exposed to more allergens and bacteria,  research has actually shown that this exposure helps to strengthen a child’s immune system in the long run, not weaken it.  In fact, experts say that ‘getting dirty’ earlier in life can often lead to less allergies and a body that can cope and fight off germs.

A 2014 study by the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that “In inner-city environments children with the highest exposure to specific allergens and bacteria during their first year were least likely to have recurrent wheeze and allergic sensitization.”

Playing in mud supports their physical development

Playing in the mud helps support many key developmental milestones for kids too.  Both their large and fine motor skills are used when they manipulate the mud in their hands, dig down into it, build it up and slip and slide all over it.  Mud play also builds sensory awareness, balance and coordination. When children play outdoors, and in mud, the incidental movement and physical activity increases, helping children maintain a healthy lifestyle and develop their physical literacy.

A 2024 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health referred to a very interesting study,  Playing in ‘The Backyard’: Environmental Features and Conditions of a Natural Playspace Which Support Diverse Outdoor Play Activities among Younger Children. Through a carefully constructed diverse outdoor environment, the researchers were able to determine that fine motor play was observed most often in the creek and mud kitchen where there were significant loose parts. You can read more about this study here. 

It supports healthy brain development

When a child plays in mud, they use all their senses, which results in a highly stimulated and active brain.  While playing with mud, children are learning and testing theories, as well as developing a foundational understanding of maths and literacy.  During this type of unstructured, outdoor play, children are not only exercising but are building their ability to form ideas, problem solve, and think critically, as well as be innovative and inventive. Who would have thought all the mooshy, squishy, dirty play would be making them smarter too!

Playing in mud gives children a greater connection with nature

Children innately reap great benefits as they grow connection and appreciation of the natural environment. Mud connects children directly with nature and the plants and living creatures that inhabit that world. It encourages them to be more curious about the natural world around them, how it works and what hidden treasures reside within it.  Small mud crabs that scatter in and out of their holes, tiny worms that help to make our soil healthier and many other tiny creatures too.

It is a great form of imaginative play

One of the greatest ways to encourage imaginative play is to pop your child in a muddy playground and watch them go!  Whether there is a small mud kitchen set up to encourage those beloved backyard mud pies or simply a giant mud city waiting to be built, the options for imaginative play are simply endless.  There really is no end to the creations, ideas and games children will invent when playing in the mud. 

Playing in mud makes them happier!

There can be no doubt that children delight in mud play – the messier the better.  In fact, ever notice how when the rain falls and muddle puddles erupt everywhere our kids seem to always be in the centre of them, heads thrown back in sheer delight?  Well, it appears that there may be more to this desire than simply ruining their new clothes.

New research has shown that exposure to friendly soil bacteria (Mycobacterium Vaccae) stimulates the immune system causing the brain to release serotonin, the chemical responsible for raising our mood.  Scientific evidence also highlights the restorative effects of outdoor play, which can reduce levels of anxiety and stress in children.

Finding mud play opportunities for your kids

Finding opportunities for your kids to play in the mud can be as simple – or as adventurous – as you like!  By simply running the hose over a sandpit or simply filling a bucket with some dirt and adding a bit of water if outdoor space is limited could be one option.  Otherwise, a trip to the local creek or beach will give you a huge area of mud for them to fossick, explore and play with. 

You don’t need a lot of equipment for them to enjoy it either – a cup, bowl, spoon (any small utensils really) – will open up endless imaginative play options for them. Even just their bare hands and toes make for some pretty great sensory mud play opportunities.

The main thing?  Let them play in the mud.  The benefits are overwhelming, but more than that, your child will simply love it.

If you are looking for more outdoor play ideas for your kids, you may also enjoy:

32 Outdoor Activities To Do With Kids in Brisbane

References:

Mud Play, Yes Please – Early Childhood Australia

Why Playing In The Mud is More Than Just Fun – Nature Play Australia

Mud Play for Kids: Why It’s Worth the Mess – Healthline

Loyal Crush: Elevate Your Lifestyle

Makeup That’s Free From Harmful Chemicals

The makeup section at Loyal Crush includes all aspects of makeup, with a focus on natural and organic ingredients. Loyal Crush believes that what you put on your skin is just as important as what you put in your body. Their makeup products are carefully formulated to enhance your natural beauty while nourishing your skin with beneficial ingredients. From foundations that provide a flawless finish, to lipsticks that add a pop of color, these makeup products are free from harmful chemicals and are suitable for all skin types.

Natural & Organic Skincare

Loyal Crush’s skincare range complements their makeup offerings, providing a complete beauty routine that is kind to your skin and the environment. Their skincare products are formulated with natural and organic ingredients that are proven to be effective in addressing various skin concerns. From gentle cleansers that remove impurities without stripping the skin, to moisturisers that hydrate and nourish, this skincare range is designed to support the natural healing and regeneration of your skin.

Perfume Without Synthetic Fragrances Or Chemicals

The perfume section at Loyal Crush features a range of fragrances including Maison Louis Marie, 19-69 and who is elijah. Loyal Crush believes that a perfume should not only smell beautiful but also make you feel good about what you are putting on your skin. These perfumes are formulated without synthetic fragrances or harmful chemicals and are designed to evoke positive emotions and enhance your natural aura.

Meaningful Gifts For Any Occasion

The Loyal Crush gifting section includes a variety of thoughtful and meaningful gifts that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a gift set that includes a selection of their best-selling products, or a beautifully scented candle to create a relaxing atmosphere, Loyal Crush has something for everyone. In addition to these, they also offer journals and tarot cards, which make thoughtful gifts for those looking to deepen their self-awareness and mindfulness practices.

Journaling & Meditation

Wellness is at the heart of Loyal Crush, as they believe in nurturing not only the body but also the mind and soul. Their wellness pillar includes a learning center that offers a variety of courses designed to enhance your mental and emotional well-being. Courses on journaling and meditation provide tools and techniques to manage stress, foster self-awareness, and cultivate a positive mindset. In addition to these, the learning center offers a range of other courses that cover various aspects of wellness, from mindfulness to self-care, all aimed at promoting a holistic sense of well-being.

Groceries

In the Loyal Crush ‘grocery’ section, you will find a curated selection of wellness products from trusted brands like Superfeast and Bliss Elixir, known for their plant-powered medicinal benefits. These products range from adaptogenic herbs that help the body adapt to stress, to antioxidant-rich superfoods that support overall health and vitality. Loyal Crush understands the importance of nourishing the body from within, and their grocery section is designed to make it easy for you to access high-quality, natural products that support your wellness journey.

Testimonials

“Loyal Crush is a game-changer! As someone who is very conscious about the products I use, I was thrilled to discover a brand that aligns with my values. The makeup products are fantastic – the colors are vibrant, and the formulas are gentle on the skin.” – Anna H.

“I purchased some wellness products and I have been very impressed with the quality. Love the cruelty free.” – Rosie B.

“Website easy to use and stock my favourite perfume brands.” – Peter C.

To find out more, and to shop online, please visit the Loyal Crush website.

Supporting Local

Byron Bay Gifts sources products from local businesses, and showcases the diversity and creativity of their local area through carefully curated gift selections to provide an opportunity for customers all around Australia to enjoy the region’s unique culture.

Gift Hampers For All Occasions

Byron Bay Gifts celebrates their local community and shares their relaxed, beachside vibe with gift deliveries around Australia. Whether it’s one of their pamper hampers or a cute baby shower gift, they share a little piece of the Northern Rivers in beautiful packaging that your recipient will love. From the elegance of the Veuve Champagne selection to the coziness of the Homewares Hamper, each gift is a curated experience that is designed to suit the gifting occasion.

With a huge selection of over 100 gift hampers to choose from, these are a few of Byron Bay Gifts’ favourite gift basket ideas:

Ink Gin Hamper with Gourmet Foods

For those who appreciate the fine art of mixology and culinary delights, the Ink Gin Hamper stands out. This gift contains the famous Ink Gin, which changes color when tonic is added, adding a touch of magic to your drink. Accompanied by a selection of gourmet foods, it showcases the best local produce and offers an experience of flavour that is deeply rooted in the region. This hamper is a celebration gift full of craft, taste, and local spirit.

Baby Shower Gift Hamper with Soft Toy

Welcoming a new life into the world is a joyous occasion, and Byron Bay Gifts makes it even more special with our baby shower gift hamper. Thoughtfully assembled with delicate and nurturing products, this hamper includes soft toys designed to comfort a newborn. Every item is chosen with love, ensuring both quality and charm, and embodying the warm embrace of the community.

Homewares Hamper with Kronos Wine Glasses

Home is where the heart is, and the Homewares Hamper accentuates this sentiment. Including stylish Kronos wine glasses and a collection of other useful homewares, this hamper turns everyday objects into the perfect housewarming gift or simply something special to uplift a loved ones living space.

Veuve Champagne Gift Selection

Elegance and sophistication are encapsulated in the Veuve Champagne Gift Selection. Offering one of the world’s renowned Champagnes, this choice is perfect for commemorating life’s significant milestones or celebrating in grand style. Accompanied by handpicked gourmet treats, it symbolises the fine tastes and world-class quality that Byron Bay Gifts embodies.

Pamper Selection

Self-care and relaxation take center stage in this Pamper Selection. A collection of exquisite organic skincare products, scented candles, and therapeutic bath salts allows the recipient to create a spa-like experience at home. It’s a reminder to pause, breathe, and indulge in the simple pleasures of life. A gesture that resonates well with the tranquil spirit of Byron Bay.

Testimonials

“Another fantastic gift sent to a friend in need. Bought several hampers now and receiver always happy and amazed with presentation. Highly recommend.” – Alison F.

“I purchased this gift for my Mother’s birthday. She was thrilled with everything from presentation to the lovely goodies inside. I liked the ease of ordering online and the delivery updates were good. I will purchase again.” – Leanne P.

“The gift hamper I ordered arrived at its destination within two days or ordering. The presentation and quality was five star according to the person I sent the gift to. I will order again from here and highly recommend.” – Cindy T.

By choosing to support local businesses, Byron Bay Gifts not only ensures quality and uniqueness but also fosters a sense of togetherness. In an increasingly interconnected world, it’s a gentle reminder of the essence of locality, tradition, and shared values. Every hamper sent out is a piece of home, love, and culture – a true Byron Bay Gift.

To find out more, please visit the Byron Bay Gifts website.

Milk + Honey believe that children are only little for a short amount of time and during this time they have such wild, unique and beautiful personalities. Milk + Honey have searched for products that showcase just that. They also know that parents deserve some time for themselves, but this isn’t always as easily said as done – this is where their cafe space comes in.

Milk + Honey was created by the mum of two little girls who needed unique products that didn’t comprise on quality. She also knew how hard it was shopping with young children, which is how Milk + Honey came to be.

Child Friendly Cafe South Brisbane

The cafe space at Milk + Honey provides a dedicated little people space for littlies to have a play, while adults enjoy a shop or even just sit down for a relaxing coffee. Kids too can enjoy a re-fuel, with beautiful baby chinos (which are free!) and mini milk shakes on offer. For the adults, alongside coffee, you can enjoy a sweet treat such as a pastry or muffin in air-conditioned comfort. Milk + Honey is a space that you can truly enjoy with your little ones.

Children’s Boutique in West End

Milk + Honey’s retail portion of the store features products that have been carefully selected to meet the needs of both parents and children. From clothing and books, to feeding essentials and skincare, you can even order online for click and collect or delivery to your door.

Milk + Honey’s collection encompasses not only beautiful and unique clothing for children, but also a huge range of products that make life just that little bit easier for parents. It’s a fantastic place to browse if you’re looking for that extra-special baby shower or new baby gift too!

Head to Milk + Honey for:

• Beautiful baby books
• Gorgeous kid-friendly toiletries
• Stunning Australian-made toys and games
• Natural play-dough
• Milestone props such as party hats, announcement plaques, first day boards and more
• Ultra-soft swaddles and wraps
• Teething aids
• Reading and soft fabric books for little kids

and a huge range of other hand-picked products.

Testimonials

“Had a gorgeous experience here. Great coffee presented beautifully, with lovely staff. A little gem!”

“The children’s clothing and accessories sold here are absolutely beautiful and quality is high class. Lovely space to enjoy an iced oat latte. Excellent job Milk and Honey”

“Could spend hours here! Such a beautiful store, with an amazing variety of items to purchase and excellent coffee.. much needed for a tired mum! Also, a perfect place to hang out with other Mumma’s, have a coffee + do some shopping with a little area for the babies to play. Don’t need to shop online now with this store opening up.”

Milk + Honey is located at 23 Vulture Street, West End, or you can visit their online store on the Milk + Honey website.

we 100% recommend calling or checking social media pages before attending any of the following locations. Open days can change, weather can cause PYO options to be put on hold and sometimes seasons start late and end early. All fees are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change. 

Chambers Flat Strawberry Farm

The Chambers Flat Strawberry Farm is well-loved and popular, especially for those wanting to pick fruit on the south side of Brisbane. The Berry Patch grows strawberries from June to November annually and once the crops are ripe and plentiful, generally around late July, it opens up for public strawberry picking.

Upon arrival, visitors can head into the shop and purchase their empty punnet before navigating the rows upon rows of strawberry goodness. There is no limit to how long you spend in the field, with the only rule being you must be able to close your punnet lid on the way out.

The farm has a small play area with a slide for kids and an onsite shop selling freshly picked strawberries, strawberry ice cream and other goodies. Give them a call to find out the latest updates on their PYO and opening hours. The farm has a pre-recorded message updated weekly with these details for visitors.

Cost:  $10 for adults, $5 for children (3 years and up), Children 0-2 free

Picking Season:  August – November (ring them first)

Address: 912 Chambers Flat Rd, Chambers Flat QLD 4133

Phone: (07) 5546 3652

Website: Chambers Flat Strawberry Farm

The Longan Farm

If you are looking for something other than the usual berry-picking experience, The Longan Farm grows longans (similar to lychee and rambutan), mangoes and dragon fruit available for picking. Located in Narangba, the farm prides itself on being a fully operational commercial farm and is open for picking during longan season, usually around February to April. 

You can bring your own secateurs or borrow a pair for a deposit, although children are not allowed to use secateurs. They accept cash only and charge per kilo for any fruit you pick. There are plenty of wide, green spaces to lay out a picnic and you are welcome to bring your food for lunch.

Cost:  Entry is $1 for adults (Under 15 is free). Longans are $10 per kg

Picking Season:  February – April

Address: 359 Raynbird Road, Narangba, 4504

Phone: 0478 745 338

Website: The Longan Farm

Forest Dragon Fruit Farm

For a genuine and authentic farm experience, with delicious fruit to pick yourself and plenty of barnyard animals to feed, why not head to Forest Dragon Fruit Farm in Brisbane’s Southwest suburbs. The Forest Dragon Fruit Farm grows 15 different varieties of dragon fruit, which means their fruiting season lasts from November until July, with most fruit available in the summer and autumn months.  

The fruit themselves are sweet and delicious, with the insides similar in look to kiwi fruit with their black seeds, but with flavours ranging from berry-like to similar to lychees, and colours including white, red, purple and yellow. Once you’ve picked your fruit, it gets weighed with prices for the different varieties, ranging from $8 per kilo to $40 for a rare and highly prized variety (and occasional discounts or sales when the fruit is abundant).  

The Forest Dragon Fruit Farm is also home to many animals, including chickens, ducks, pigs, sheep and alpacas. Visitors to the farm are able to hand feed the sheep and alpacas, and throw a different mix of grains to the chooks, ducks and pigs. There are also beehives on the property, with the bees assisting in pollinating the fruit and producing delicious honey.

Cost:  Entry is $5 per person and includes a bag of feed for the farm animals

Picking Season:  November – July

Address: 151 Dickman Rd, Forestdale QLD 4118

Phone:  0426 501 978

Website: Forest Dragon Fruit Farm

McMartin’s Farm

McMartin’s farm is set in a peaceful, rural setting and has been family owned and operated since 1945. For the past 25 years, strawberries have been the predominant winter crop, while custard apples, lychees and figs are grown in other seasons. At the farm, you will find not only your fields of delicious berries but a gift store, cafe, deck and kids’ playground. On arrival, you can get your ready-to-fill punnet container from the gift shop before making your selection.

Once your strawberries and picked and purchased you can order light meals and refreshments from the farm’s café and sit out on the covered deck overlooking the beautiful landscape. The café serves Devonshire tea with delicious homemade scones (with strawberry jam, of course!), barista coffee, smoothies, sundaes and light lunches. If the weather’s not too wintery, you must try the award-winning fruit-flavoured ice creams, marketed as Strawberry Lane Ice Creamery. It’s fruity. It’s creamy. It’s divine.

Once they have refuelled, your Brisbane Kids will want to play on the playground, situated within full view of the café’s seating area. 

Cost:  No entry fee.  

Picking Season:  June – October

Address: 105 Sports Road, Bli Bli

Phone:  07 5458 4912

Website: McMartin’s Farm

Rolin Farms

Rolin Farms is located only moments from the Glasshouse Mountains and makes for a perfectly sweet stop when you are next heading to the Sunshine Coast. From June to October for berry-picking, the farm’s fields are open to anyone who has pre-purchased a picking container (with kids under 4 being free). 

Along with their fields of strawberries, the farm also has a store that sells freshly picked and packed strawberries, farm-made strawberry jams, blended real fruit strawberry ice creams,  hot and cold drinks, strawberry souvenirs, flowering orchids and even their own honey! There is a playground for the kids, shaded seating and on the weekends you can also enjoy some pancakes from their pancake man. There is also a nursery onsite; however visiting the nursery is strictly by appointment only.

Cost:  Per picking container. Kids under 4 are free.

Picking Season:  June – October

Address: 124-190 Rutters Road, Elimbah, 4516

Phone: 07 5497 4253

Website: Rolin Farms

Freeman’s Organic Farm

Since 1915, Freeman’s Organic Farm has been run by four generations of Freeman’s. Traditionally Freeman’s Organic Farm grew high quality tropical fruits such as avocados, custard apples, mangoes, paw paws, and of course award winning bananas. Today, Freeman’s Organic Farm has expanded their produce and grow an extensive range of organic fruits, vegetable and herbs. Every Saturday from 1 – 2 pm, Farm David offers guided farm tours. These are full of educational value and children are also invited to pick their own seasonal vegetables for free. Anyone wishing to participate, please get in touch with the farm to secure your place.

Every Friday at 10am (weather permitting), they also host a Mums and Bubs session at the farm.   The session involves fun arts, crafts and reading activities and will entertain children of all ages from babies in arms, to toddlers, to the young at heart! Mums can enjoy connecting and sharing with other mums over coffee, and every child who participates gets to pick their own fresh strawberries to eat!

The farm also has a cafe that is open on the weekends and offers delicious coffee and snacks using organic ingredients sourced from the farm.

Cost:  $15 per adult for a tour and includes strawberry picking. Children and students are free.

Picking Season:  Call to confirm

Address: 618 Tomewin Mountain Road, Currumbin Valley

Phone: 0438 777 763

Website: Freeman’s Organic Farm

LuvaBerry

LuvaBerry has been operating for nearly two decades, growing everything from strawberries and herbs to native finger limes, and offer a variety of activities to enjoy on our farm. On weekends from July through September you can learn about the farm while strolling along the property on a complimentary tour, then try your hand at picking your own fresh strawberries.

Unlike other strawberry farms that say no eating on the field, LuvaBerry do exclusive PYO experiences called ‘Peckish Picking’. They know that when surrounded by tasty Queensland strawberries, it can be challenging for the little ones not to help themselves. That’s why they are happy for you to eat as many strawberries in the field as you like. If you’d like to pick more than 500g to take home, then they will weigh your fruit and charge you per kilo.

LuvaBerry also has a container shop offering homemade strawberry ice cream and several other tasty treats. Self-serve tea and coffee is also available. Please feel free to bring a picnic to enjoy under the trees or by the dam. Grazing platters are available to preorder.

Cost:  Entry is $16 for adults, $10 for children (aged 5-12 years old) and includes a 500g eco box to fill up and take home. $5 for Children (aged 2-5 years old) eat in the field only

Picking Season:  July – October

Address: 65 Ziviani Road, Wamuran, Qld 4512

Phone: 0417 741 692

Website: LuvaBerry

Other posts about fruit picking in Brisbane 

Fruit picking in Brisbane for making a delicious Mulberry Crumble

Fruit Picking at the Gold Coast

For a selection of all the fruit and vegetable delivery services in Brisbane, just scroll on through our list below. 

Fruit and Deli Co

Offering delivery Monday- Thursday, you will love the speed of delivery in addition to the range & superb quality of products on offer. While located at North Lakes, they deliver as far as Ashgrove and are hiring more drivers as demand increases. There is a small delivery fee ($6.95) and you order via a private Facebook Group which you can join via their Facebook Page (there is a website coming). In addition to fruit and vegies, they also offer nuts, milk and bread products, pasta, eggs, oils and deli products. They also offer drive-through if you live locally. A recent order to Fruit and Deli Co arrived THAT DAY!!! Fruit and Deli Co 

Charlie’s Fruit Online

Charlie’s Online Store offers fresh fruit and vegetables delivered straight to your door.  Home delivery is available on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, depending on your area.   Their pre-set value boxes (excluding the “ugly” box) are free-delivered, however there is a small delivery charge if you are buying individual items in our online store.  Their minimum order is $30.  They also offer pick-up in-store from Charlie’s Fruit Market (473 South Pine Rd, Everton Park).  If you want to save some money, you can order their “ugly fruit & veg” boxes (the produce that doesn’t necessarily meet the regular customer’s idea of perfection, with a few lumps and bumps here, a spot or two there) or go bulk. Charlie’s Fruit Online

Home Fresh Organics

HomeFresh Organics online ordering system makes quality products available to everyone no matter where they live or how much shopping time they have available.  Their menu is extensive, with all sorts of organic products available including butcher, deli, dairy, bakery and fruit and vegetables – they can even cater to your pets! Home Fresh Organics

Crunch Produce

CRUNCH sources all their fresh fruit and vegetables directly from the Brisbane Wholesale Markets in Rocklea — delivering primarily to homes in the Western suburbs of Brisbane every Friday, and now Brisbane CBD suburbs every Thursday. With over ten years experience sourcing and selecting fruit and vegetables for some of Brisbane’s finest restaurants, they are fastidious when selecting quality produce.  You can shop for fresh fruit, vegetables and as well as herb / salad items on their site. Crunch Produce

Suncoast Fresh Fruit

Suncoast Fresh fruit and veg box delivery/pick up service is now in full swing with six different boxes to choose from, ranging from $28 to $95, delivering to Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Toowoomba and Byron Bay. They usually supply the best quality produce to restaurants and cafes, so you’ll be shopping where the chefs shop. Suncoast Fresh Fruit

Big Michaels

Big Michaels is conveniently located in the heart of the Brisbane Rocklea Markets on Sherwood Road. Being situated right in the heart of the Brisbane markets enables Big Michael’s to buy direct from the various Growers and Local Farmers. Big Michael’s delivers 6 days per week – Monday to Saturday. They also offer a second delivery Mondays to Saturdays leaving the warehouse between 11 and 11.30am however in order to receive this second delivery orders must be in by 10am the same day. (SUBJECT TO AREA) Big Michaels

Ripe n Raw Organics Home Delivery

At Ripe n Raw they favour local growers to bring you the freshest produce at great value prices.  Their wide range of beautiful produce from credible, 100% Certified Organic Aussie farmers and suppliers.  Produce comes in fresh each day, is carefully checked for quality, packed into your box and immediately delivered.  By sourcing exactly what is needed on a daily basis they avoid carrying over excess produce – making it the freshest way to eat organic. Chilled and insulated esky boxes keep your precious goodies crispy until you arrive home.  They offer a wide range of fruit and vegetables as well as a huge list of other organic products. Ripe n Raw Organics Home Delivery

Scenic Rim Farm Box

Currently delivering to Brisbane, Ipswich, Redlands, Logan, the Gold Coast, Scenic Rim – and now also Toowoomba & Highfields! Our Farm Boxes are fully customisable and will be delivered to your front door. Scenic Rim Farm Box

Hello Fresh

Hello Fresh are well known for their meal delivery service but they also deliver fruit boxes straight to your door.  Simply select the items that you are after, select the date you would like your delivery and then you should receive this straight to your door.  There are meal plans to suit every diet (including vegetarian) and therefore a fruit box is an essential part of their plans. Hello Fresh

Spray Free Farmacy

Spray Free Farmacy are a small family business that is based in Brisbane. With the help of their farmer friend Kel, they gather a variety of fresh, organically grown produce from local farmers every week, pack it in recycled boxes and deliver to their network of pick-up points (or your doorstep) across Brisbane and the Northern Gold Coast, on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.  They sell fresh fruit, vegetables and nuts as well as a few other grocery items. Spray Free Farmacy

Farm Fresh Organics

At Farm Fresh Organics, their mission is to help you create a healthy family.  They only sell organic food and they only order from their growers and suppliers AFTER you’ve ordered from them.  By not holding stock, it allows them to buy and sell only the freshest produce available.  You can order on the website 24/7, with the company delivering to most of SE Queensland every week. You don’t need to be home to receive your order either as it comes in it’s own esky and can, therefore, stay cool right to your kitchen. Farm Fresh Organics 

BuyFruit

BuyFruit is a handpicked and packed convenient service that means you get the best quality fruit and vegetables delivered directly to your workplace, office, home, school, hotel or aged care facility. BuyFruit have a range of pre-set fruit and/or vegetable boxes to meet your needs. BuyFruit products are sourced from the Brisbane Produce Market, for delivery to you through your local fruit shop. BuyFruit

Youfoodz

Weekly meal delivery service Youfoodz has launched fruit and vegetable box delivery on top of their existing range of services. Choose from seasonal fruit, vegetable, or combination fruit and vegetable boxes delivered to your door. Youfoodz fruit and vegetable boxes are a convenient way to help you fill your fridge with fresh, seasonal produce direct from the farm. Youfoodz

note:  Fruit and Vegetable boxes are great but you may still need to supplement these with purchases of high volume staples like potatoes and bananas (really depending on what you eat a lot of).

Meat delivery Brisbane

• Echo Valley Farm – regenerative farm outside Warwick, selling pastured beef, pork and eggs
• Our Cow – beef, lamb and chicken one-off boxes or subscriptions
• Maleny Black Angus – grassfed and farm direct
• And favourite butchers Meat at Billy’s and Super Butcher also offer home delivery