2021 is the year of playing tourist in your own backyard. It’s a year of weekend staycations and impromptu day trips with the kids. Since international- and even interstate- travel is a bit dicey at the moment, we’re lucky Victoria is so rich in experiences and diverse places to explore. Sunbury is no exception.

Here are 10 inexpensive things that the whole family can do around Sunbury. Add a few together to create your own itinerary and shake up your daily routine next weekend.

1. Goonawarra Golf Club – This pristine golf course overlooks vineyards and lakes full of black swans. Young players enjoy discounted green fees.
2. Sunbury Recreation Reserve– An impressive play space that’s home to a skate park, BMX tracks, plenty of shaded spots to picnic and walking paths. Be as energetic or as chilled out as you like here.
3. Jackson Creek – On the edge of Maplestone Estate, you can try your hand at fishing for the odd redfin, perch and bluefish. Or gather for a game of bocce in the dedicated sandpit at the creek-side Apex Park.
4. Dingo Discovery – Book a private tour for the whole family at this important sanctuary and research centre. Who’s up for close encounters of the furred kind?
5. Goona Warra Vineyard – RSVP for a grazing lunch on the picturesque terrace or in the cosy cellar and pretend you’re in Europe. Little ones will love a treat of meringues with Chantilly cream, fresh berries and rose syrup. 
6. Alister Clark Memorial Rose Garden – Go take some Insta-worthy pictures together with the backdrop of this pretty spot. There are dozens upon dozens of different rose varieties to spot. 
7. McDougall Playhouse Café – Let the kids burn off some energy at this indoor playground. You can enjoy a coffee break while they bounce around on jumpy castles, super slides, trampolines and the ever-popular ball pit.
8. Boilerhouse Theatre Company – Keep an eye on this local performance company’s socials to see which theatre or cabaret show they will put on next. So much cheaper than tickets (and flights) to Broadway.
9. Riddells Creek Farmers Market – Each Saturday, shop for the freshest produce including microgreens, honey and olives, plus goodies like Turkish delight, homemade jam and cider with a hot breakfast or brunch in hand.
10. Emu Bottom Wetlands – Both the place and name are fun. Take your dog for a swim, challenge the family to a bird-spotting contest, ride a horse (if you have one handy) and don’t forget to take a kite or a model airplane for a spin in this welcoming space. 

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