School holidays are fast approaching

Kids Welcome home page

At this time of year, parents all over Australia start to panic. In a few short weeks, their precious children will be in their full time care and the pressure of keeping them happy for up to two months can be daunting.

It’s not just about keeping them busy: Choosing holiday experiences that won’t break the bank can be a real challenge. Luckily, the Kids Welcome web directory has been launched just in time to come to the rescue.

This free resource includes over 2000 reviews of family-friendly activities, attractions, tours, places to eat, places to stay, events, beaches and even playgrounds. The reviews are written by parents, for parents and each is rated as suitable for three different age-groups: preschool, primary and teen.

Web directory creator Sarah Pye says this invaluable resource will take the hard work out of entertaining the kids.

“If you are planning to explore new parts of Australia together it helps you pick appropriate places to go, many of which are free and you wouldn’t find them in tourism brochures,” she says.

“Even if you don’t leave home,  the Kids Welcome directory is just as useful for banishing ‘I’m bored’ because there are guaranteed to be ideas for your local area too.

“Grandparents, aunts and uncles need not fear if the kids are coming to visit over Christmas!”

What makes this online resource different from Kids Welcome printed guidebooks is the ability for users to engage directly. By joining the site, which is free, they can make comments on the reviews and even upload images of their own family enjoying the activities.

Not only is it fun to see yourself on the website,” Sarah says.

“It’s also good to know your comments will help other families create memorable holidays!”

The Kids Welcome web directory was launched on November 11 at UnderWater World on the Sunshine Coast.  It was critically acclaimed by

Kids Welcome launch

Sunshine Coast Destination Limited and currently covers Queensland, NSW and the ACT.  Sarah and her chief expert, Amber (11) intend to hitch their camper trailer and explore Victoria over the summer to add even more content.

To celebrate the launch, you could win a week in your very own camper trailer from Camp Ezy on the Gold Coast. Simply go to competitions on www.kidswelcome.com.au.

A New Haven for Families at Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa, Broome

The Family Pool at Cable Beach Club Resort

The award-winning Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa has unveiled its new $3 million family facilities, making it the perfect family retreat. Young guests can now enjoy the excitement of a brand new water playground, mini golf course plus enhanced surrounds at the existing Family Pool

Complete with fun water cannons, flowers shooting water streams, buckets cascading water as well as an array of water fountains, the playground provides hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.

In addition to the new water playground the Resort boasts two flood-lit tennis courts, a gym, kid’s activities centre including foosball, table tennis and plasma TV screen as well as a dedicated tour desk from which you can book all your Broome activities.

Self contained Bungalows are perfect for families

There are a range of accommodation options available at the Resort including Bungalow accommodation which is perfect for families. Styled on the historic pearling master’s quarters of Broome, the Bungalows feature spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens and comfortable sleeping areas. Choose from Classic, Pearlers, or our Spa Superior and Spa Deluxe bungalows which sleep up to seven people and feature two bathrooms – one with your own spa bath.

Set amongst 26 acres of magnificent gardens, the Resort is a tropical oasis just minutes away from the multicultural pearling town of Broome and is the only Resort overlooking stunning Cable Beach. Here you can enjoy all the luxuries of a full service Resort, where every member of the family is catered for. 

Book Mum in for some much needed pampering at the indulgent Chahoya Spa & Salon, complete with seven luxurious treatment rooms, a double vichy shower hair salon, yoga deck and much more. And while the kids are busy lapping it up at the Family Pool, Dad can relax with a beverage in hand at the adult’s only Ocean pool.

The new water playground is a big hit with young guests

The influence of Broome’s multicultural melting pot is evident in the cuisine found at the three distinctively different restaurants and bars. From casual dining and cocktails overlooking Cable Beach at the Sunset Bar & Grill to the delights of Asian cuisine at Thai Pearl and to the ultimate Broome-fine-dining experience at the Club Restaurant.  All restaurants offer a kid friendly menu and for an intimate evening for two why not take advantage of the Resort’s babysitting service.

Blessed with sunny temperatures, luxurious facilities, friendly staff and numerous adventures on your doorstep, Cable Beach Club Resort & Spa in Broome is the ultimate family getaway.

With direct flights from Perth, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide and Darwin now is the perfect time for a Broome Escape. To make a booking visit www.cablebeachclub.com  or call reservations on 1800 199 099.