Lots of adventure in Hunter National Parks these school holidays

Media release: 26 June 2015

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Discovery team has jam-packed the school holiday calendar with adventures for anyone – young and old – wanting to get outdoors and explore nature.

NPWS Lower Hunter Discovery Coordinator Shani Milgate said the winter school holidays program included whale watching, cultural and craft activities celebrating NAIDOC (National Aboriginal and Islander Day Observance Committee) week and a tour of the Hunter’s wetlands on Ash Island.

“June is a very exciting time of the year as migrating whales gracefully make their way past the Hunter coast heading to warmer waters to breed,” Ms Milgate said.

“Our Discovery Ranger will take whale enthusiasts to some of the best vantage points in the Hunter and pick up some helpful tips on how to spot whales and learn about different breeds.

“On Tuesday 30 June, NPWS will be celebrating its annual Children’s Discovery Day at Hunter Region Botanic Gardens. There will be wonderful nature based cultural activities with a NPWS Aboriginal Discovery Ranger, nature craft activities and much more.

“NAIDOC Week commences 6 July and NPWS will be present at the Westlakes NAIDOC Family Fun Day on 7 July which will include children’s activities, live entertainment and displays by local service providers.”

NPWS will host the WilderQuest NAIDOC Cultural Adventure at Blue Gum Hills Regional Park that includes face painting and Aboriginal art activities.

Ms Milgate said children could go on a treasure hunt with an expert Aboriginal Discovery Ranger to search for the tracks of the creatures who call Blue Gum Hills Regional Park their home.

“As bushwalkers are guided through the dry eucalypt forest, they could be lucky enough to see goannas basking in the sunlight, hear the hum of cicadas or glimpse birds flitting through the trees,” Ms Milgate said.

“The Grey Goshawk is one of the most striking birds in Blue Gum Hills Regional Park with its powerful yellow legs and amazing talons.

“Rounding out a spectacular school holiday Discovery program, adventure seekers can get their heart pumping by joining a women’s walking group along the heritage linked area of the Hunter Wetlands National Park.

“The walk starts from the School Masters House on Ash Island and meanders to Scotts Point, returning via Riverside Park.”

Further information can be found by calling the NPWS Lower Hunter Area office on 02 49464112 to make a booking or visit www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au.

Contact: Daniel Stanton