Celebrating with play and painting

CHILDREN’S Week celebrations have been held across the Shire, inviting parents and carers to bring their little ones together to explore, be creative and connect.

Shire staff facilitated one of these activity mornings at Haddon Lions Park playground, where 11 children under the age of five enjoyed free play, music, friendship rock-painting, and story books.

Erin Dern, the coordinator of the local Woady Yaloak Playgroup, brought her two children, aged one and three, who loved getting involved in everything on offer.

“There’s something for every age group here which is beautiful. We’re so thankful that the Shire can provide things like this to support our families and children to come together again.,” she said.

“We’ve been involved with playgroup since my children were born, and in the last 18 months it’s been very interrupted, so it’s nice to be able to come today and see everyone we haven’t seen since we were locked down.

“A lot of people here today have popped into playgroup before, and there are a couple of new faces, which is amazing.”

Benita Martin brought along her four-year-old son and niece, making the most of a beautiful, bright Tuesday morning under blue skies.

“I like that a fun, simple activity was provided, and there’s lots of space. We’re just happy to be out and about in the community on a sunny day, getting to see the kids play,” she said.

“It’s been a great opportunity to come down and meet some people. I didn’t know anyone else here, so it’s been nice to meet them.

“As our children have gotten older, we don’t know as many little kids, so it’s great to see other young families.”

Other Children’s Week events held in the Shire included get-togethers at Bunjil Lookout at Maude and Turtle Bend Park at Teesdale.

The events have been funded by the State Department of Education and Training.