School holidays are looming once again and your children's expectations of being entertained with bigger and better activities each time is tough for all parents, whatever age your children. There is also the 'small' concern of money with most attractions demanding a mortgage to pay the entrance fee and buy food whilst visiting. So, what about this idea that will not break the bank this school holidays?:
Enjoy a train ride into the city on a
Family Rider ticket. This will cost you $12.40 and give you all day unlimited travel on the day of purchase for a group of up to seven people. The only restriction in school holidays Monday - Friday, is that in Zones 5 - 9 you have to travel after 8.30am and in Zones 1 - 4 you have to travel after 9am. I am sure this is not an issue for most families with children, as getting out of the house in the mornings can be very time consuming.
After the exciting train ride, get off at Elizabeth Quay and walk to the Transperth Jetty (just a few minutes' walk).
Ferry entrance at Elizabeth Quay
As you have a valid Transperth ticket, the ferry trip is free. Ride as many times as you like. It's brilliant! If you didn't come on the train or don't have a ticket, it is only $3.00 return for adults and $1.20 for children, so still cheap as chips.
The ferries are pushchair and child friendly and I love the way you can sit with your buggy next to you rather than taking your child out and leaving the pram in another location. The short journey of around 10 minutes will give you all time to have a rest before the ferry arrives at South Perth Jetty.
The view over to the city will still blow you away, regardless of how many times you have seen it. There were a couple of pairs of swans on the beach admiring the view, when we were there.
The views of the city are just stunning
On the picturesque foreshore there are several groups of sun loungers, complete with umbrellas, for you to take advantage of. They are part of the 'Find Me' series of activities run by the City of South Perth and will be there until 30 April 2017.
"Lounged' - part of the 'Find Me' series in South Perth
You will all delight in watching subsequent ferries arrive and depart and when you need a change of scenery, walk to the playground, situated at the entrance to the jetty, and let the children burn some more energy off.
There is a small kiosk on the jetty where you can buy drinks, snacks or something more substantial if you didn't bring your own with you. There are other local venues, too, if you fancy splashing out and having a treat.
South Perth ferry terminal
Then you can get back on the ferry for free, and engage the children by asking them to look for dolphins, birds, aeroplanes and the pirate ship that is currently moored in Elizabeth Quay.
The pirate ship on the way back to Elizabeth Quay
Then you can have more free fun at the splash park, the playground at Elizabeth Quay and another ferry ride if time permits.
Our city really is a great place to live; make sure you plan a day trip to the city these holidays.
