Workshops Rail Museum

The Workshops Rail Museum is in Ipswich, about a 40 minute drive from Brisbane. We've been here a few times, mainly when Henry was younger and obsessed with Thomas the Tank Engine (as an almost 8 year old he is not very impressed with Thomas now!).  


They hold themed events throughout the year, the biggest of which is the "Day out with Thomas" generally held over the Christmas holidays (this year it will be on from 26th December 2011 until 29th January 2012).  The main attraction is the Thomas engine that kids can climb aboard, plus they can meet the Fat Controller and a few of Thomas's friends (including Edward, Donald, Annie & Clarabel, Lady) and there are a bunch of other Thomas things to do and see.


Even when there isn't a themed event on, the Workshops Rail Museum still makes for a fun day out (and has the added bonus of being waaay less busy!)  There are tours of the blacksmith shop, plenty of old and new trains and interactive displays to explore and a kids play area. 


Food wise there is a cafe with the usual pricey fare, but you can take your own food and eat in the grounds.


An adult ticket is $19, children 3-15 years $11 (under 3's free) and a family (2 adults and up to 4 children) $57.


The museum also runs Steam Train Sundays which offer a 1 hour journey around Brisbane on vintage wooden carriages pulled by a restored steam locomotive.  We haven't tried them yet but it sounds like a lot of fun so may be a future blog post!

Address: North Street, North Ipswich
Phone: 07 3432 5100
Website: www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au

Wynnum Wading Pool and Water Park

The Wynnum/Manly/Lota area has some great spaces to keep kids occupied on a sunny day.  We'll start with a look at the Wynnum wading pool and park.  The wading pool was originally built in the 1930's  and was redeveloped a few years ago.  It's a large pool adjacent to the sea and is filled with filtered sea water and has a sandy bottom.  The water depth is fairly shallow (think adult knee level!) and there's a small water slide at one end.  


Next to the wading pool is a playground and the water park.  The water park is some large blue whales that spurt water out at random intervals - great fun for young and old kids!  The playground is quite large and also suits young and old kids.  


Yet another attraction next to the park is Pandanus Beach, a small area of sand great for littlies to play on and paddle in the sea.


Facilities are good with picnic tables and shady areas and new changing room/toilet block.  There are a number of good fish and chip shops across the road.


Note in the winter months the wading pool is emptied for cleaning and maintenance and the whales don't spout water. 


Address: Wynnum Esplanade, Wynnum 4178