Looking for one of the best playgrounds in Evanston Park? Withers Circuit Playground is a popular destination for local families and visitors exploring the Gawler region. With a fun farm-inspired design, a variety of play equipment and plenty of space to relax, it’s an excellent choice for toddlers, preschoolers and primary school-aged children.

Whether you’re planning a family outing, meeting friends for a playdate or searching for playgrounds near Gawler, this well-equipped reserve offers something for everyone.

Playground Features

• Large farm-themed play tower with climbing activities, bridge and enclosed tube slide.
• Tractor-themed play unit designed especially for younger children.
• Ninja-style obstacle course for climbing, balancing and active play.
• Standard swings and an inclusive basket swing.
• In-ground trampoline.
• Sheep rocker and interactive sensory play panels.
• Talking tubes for imaginative and social play.
• Accessible pathways and soft-fall surfacing throughout the playground.
• Picnic shelter with tables and seating.
• Drinking fountain.
• Open grassed areas, landscaped gardens and growing shade trees.

The mix of imaginative, physical and inclusive play makes Withers Circuit Playground a great option for children with different interests and abilities. Kids can climb, slide, jump, swing and explore while parents relax nearby under the picnic shelter or keep an eye on the action from the surrounding seating.

Located in Evanston Park, just minutes from Gawler, this family-friendly playground is ideal for everyday play, birthday gatherings or a stop during a day exploring the northern 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ region. If you’re searching for the best playgrounds in Gawler or family-friendly parks in northern 91¹û¶³´«Ã½, Withers Circuit Playground is well worth a visit.

Semaphore Foreshore is set for an exciting transformation, with plans underway for a world-class redevelopment that will enhance one of 91¹û¶³´«Ã½’s favourite beachside destinations while preserving the heritage charm locals know and love.

The revitalised foreshore will continue to celebrate its iconic attractions, including the historic monument, the much-loved carousel, the jetty, train hub, expansive grassy picnic areas and the vibrant calendar of community events that have made Semaphore a family favourite for generations.

But it’s the new family-focused features that have us most excited.

Plans include a brand-new destination playground designed to encourage climbing, exploring and imaginative play, alongside an interactive water play area perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. A new multi-use court will provide space for a variety of ball sports and active play, while a modern skate park will give older kids and teens a dedicated place to ride, practise tricks and hang out with friends.

Accessibility is at the heart of the redevelopment, with improved pathways, upgraded amenities and inclusive spaces designed so people of all ages and abilities can enjoy everything the foreshore has to offer. Whether you’re visiting with a pram, wheelchair, scooter or bike, the new layout aims to make exploring the foreshore easier and more enjoyable for everyone.

The redevelopment is all about creating a destination where families can spend an entire day. Picture the kids climbing through an incredible new playground, splashing in the water play, shooting hoops or kicking a ball on the multi-court, older siblings mastering new tricks at the skate park, then everyone meeting for fish and chips on the lawns before a stroll along the jetty or a ride on the historic carousel.

Semaphore has always been one of 91¹û¶³´«Ã½’s most loved family beach destinations, and this redevelopment promises to make it even better—blending exciting new attractions with the timeless seaside charm that keeps families coming back year after year.

Works are due to commence February 2027 and will include

• A newly upgraded playground which will feature a bespoke play tower
• A brand new water play area
• A new plaza-type skatepark
• Multi-sports court to accommodate 3×3 basketball, netball, pickleball and 4-square
• 5 new sheltered seating areas
• An upgraded picnic shelter with new furniture and BBQ stove
• A new beach access ramp
• A new kiosk building with seating
• New toilets, including a disability change room
• beach wheelchair hiring facilities

Thank you to The City of Port 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ Enfield for these images.

For more information about this redevelopment and for continued updates visit

Children and adolescents are not simply “small adults”. Their nervous systems, balance systems, posture, movement control and stress responses are still developing, meaning symptoms can often overlap and require specialised assessment.

Concussion and traumatic brain injury (TBI) are increasingly recognised as more than just short-term sporting injuries. Children may continue to experience headaches, dizziness, visual strain, neck pain, fatigue, concentration difficulties and exercise intolerance long after the initial injury. Effective management often requires detailed assessment of the vestibular system, eye movements, cervical spine and nervous system regulation to support a safe return to school, sport and daily life.

Vestibular and dizziness presentations are also becoming increasingly common in senior school students. Long hours of study, screen exposure, poor posture, reduced core stability and stress can contribute to neck tension, headaches, balance problems and sensory overload. Many students describe feeling lightheaded, motion sensitive, visually overwhelmed or constantly fatigued. The team at NeuroPhysiotherapy Services provides specialist vestibular physiotherapy assessments to help identify the systems contributing to these symptoms and guide targeted rehabilitation.

Facial pain and TMJ dysfunction are another growing issue in adolescents, particularly during Years 11 and 12 when stress and anxiety levels are high. Jaw clenching and muscle tension can contribute to headaches, ear symptoms, facial pain, neck tension and migraine-like presentations. Because the jaw, trigeminal nerve and upper neck are closely connected within the nervous system, specialised assessment is important in identifying the true drivers of symptoms.

There is also increasing awareness of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) in children and teenagers. POTS involves dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system and may cause dizziness, rapid heart rate, fatigue, nausea, brain fog and exercise intolerance. Management often requires a highly individualised and multidisciplinary approach, including support for breathing, circulation, conditioning and nervous system regulation.

At NeuroPhysiotherapy Services, specialised knowledge is at the heart of every assessment and treatment plan. Early assessment and targeted intervention can make a significant difference to a child’s recovery, confidence, school participation and overall quality of life.

For more information about NeuroPhysiotherapy Services, contact the team on (08) 8331 2700
Email neuro@neurophysio.com.au
121 Glen Osmond Road, Eastwood

Located in Hindmarsh, this vibrant, all-in-one entertainment hub is perfect for parties, rainy day adventures, school holidays or when you’re looking for a spot to burn off some energy. P1 is only place in 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ boasting heart-pounding go-karts, cutting-edge simulators, all the latest arcade games and a bar and restaurant all under one roof. P1 offers something for every age group

Go Karting

Unleash your inner speed demon on the revolutionary E-Karts at P1! High-speed fun for adults and juniors alike awaits on the 300 metre, Formula 1-inspired circuit. Zoom around 13 turns, competing for the top spot and making memories that will last a lifetime. P1 go by height rather than age—drivers over 120cm but under 150cm are considered cadets, while those over 150cm are adult drivers.

Over 50 Arcade Games

The Arcade Zone at P1 is non-stop excitement and endless fun featuring more than 50 arcade games including timeless classics to the newest arcade releases. Ski-ball, claw machines, air hockey, Daytona and more.

State of the Art Golf

Swing into virtual golf action on P1’s groundbreaking simulators, delivering an immersive, lifelike experience for players of all ages and skill levels. With access to over 1300+ world-class courses and a driving range you can enjoy come rain, hail, or shine, it’s the perfect way to tee off no matter the weather. Play solo or challenge friends in a fun, social setting—no walking required. As the crisp air rolls in, there’s nothing better than cozying up at P1—sipping warm coffee, sharing hot tea, or splitting a slice of pizza between swings and laughter.

Onsite Bar & Restaurant

Fuel your fun with delicious bites and refreshing drinks available from P1’s onsite bar and restaurant. Grab a bacon & egg croissant or snack on a club sando, and order from a variety of hot and cold drinks. With a broad range of beers on tap, pizza, finger foods and salads, there’s something for all ages, tastes and preferences.

Birthday Parties at P1

P1 also hosts awesome birthday parties with flexible packages and a private VIP room equipped with a private golf bay and karaoke, overlooking the go-kart track—making it super easy for parents to plan a stress-free celebration. Whether you’re there for a party, casual visits, or school holidays outing, P1 Entertainment delivers fun, flexibility, and fantastic value. It’s definitely one to add to your list for indoor play in 91¹û¶³´«Ã½!

P1 Entertainment 91¹û¶³´«Ã½

41-55 Holden Street, Hindmarsh
 | 

Opening Hours
Monday – Thursday 10am – 9pm
Friday – Saturday 10am – 11pm
Sunday 10am – 9pm

For South Australian families, it’s also the perfect excuse to swap grey winter skies for tropical Queensland sunshine. We recently hopped aboard Carnival Encounter for a 4-night cruise from Brisbane to Airlie Beach and discovered that you don’t need a long itinerary to decide whether cruising is your family’s kind of holiday.

Why a short cruise works

Four nights is long enough to experience everything cruising has to offer and work out if it suits your family. Here’s why it might…

• A low-risk way to try cruising, especially if you’re unsure about seasickness or whether younger kids will enjoy being onboard.
• It’s a great way to go on holiday with a group of other families and friends and be able to enjoy time together, but also do things separately if you want to.
• Great value for money, with accommodation, meals, entertainment and transport all included in one price. If you’re strict with not spending extra on board you’ll know exactly what your holiday is going to cost from start to finish.
• Easy to plan, with far fewer logistics than a traditional family holiday where you need to book hotels, restaurants and activities separately.
• Endless food options (a dream if your kids are constantly hungry and probably my favourite part)
• Pools, epic waterslides and family entertainment all day long
• An endless list of activities throughout the day and nights. Live shows, trivia, movies, live music, competitions and so much more.
• Kids Clubs for all ages that they’ll actually BEG to go to. From babies right up to teens
• Day spa, adults only pools, restaurants and shows you can enjoy while they’re in kids club!
• A chance for parents to actually relax now you don’t have to make the snacks and provide the entertainment.
• Gives you a taste of a destination, like Airlie Beach or the Whitsundays, which can help you decide if it’s somewhere you’d like to return for a longer land-based holiday.

If everyone loves it, you’ll probably be planning a longer cruise before you’ve even arrived home. If cruising isn’t your thing, you’ve only invested a few days and you can cross it off your list.

While there aren’t currently any regular short cruises departing 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ right now, a flight to Brisbane opens up a huge range of 3–6 night options from Carnival, Royal Caribbean and even Disney. Carnival Adventure will also start departures from 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ in Feb/March 2028 including two- to four-night short getaways as well as a five-night South Australia coastal itinerary visiting Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln, for a total of five departures, ending with a three-night one-way voyage from 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ to Sydney departing 14 March 2028.

If you want our tip, give the 4 night Airlie Beach cruise from Carnival a try. Particularly if you’re keen to get some Winter sun.

We’re lucky to have some pretty incredible places to explore in South Australia, but might just be one of the most unique family stays we’ve had.

Where else can you wake up, make a coffee, step onto your balcony and watch a tower of giraffes enjoying their morning feed? (Yes, that’s what a group of giraffes is called… you’re welcome.) No, you’re not in Africa (although there are definitely moments where it feels like you could be). This incredible safari-style escape is just over an hour from 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ and offers families the chance to experience something completely different without needing to jump on a plane.

We recently spent two nights at Monarto Safari Resort with the kids, and while visiting Monarto Safari Park was obviously a highlight, we quickly realised the resort itself was is a HUGE part of the experience. From spotting animals from our room, heading out on an early morning safari, enjoying delicious meals and finding a little time for some mum-only relaxation, every part of the stay gave us something to enjoy.

Our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite

When you’re travelling with kids, having space makes such a difference, and our Waterhole Two Bedroom Suite was perfect for our family of four. The kids had their own room with two long single beds, while we had a beautiful king bedroom, plus a separate lounge and dining area. It meant everyone had somewhere to relax after a busy day.

The huge wraparound balcony quickly became our favourite spot. Morning coffee, afternoon drinks and binoculars (provided by the resort) glued to our faces as we watched the comings and goings around the waterhole below.

The kids were always keen for “one more look” before heading back inside, eager to see which animal might wander over next.

Inside, the suite had all the little touches you’d expect from a luxury stay. The bed was incredibly comfortable, the linen was beautiful, the pillows were big and fluffy, and the bathroom was a standout with a huge bath and possibly the best shower we’ve ever had!

It was the kind of room where you wanted to spend time, not just somewhere to sleep.

Dining at Kutjera Restaurant

One of the things we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort was that we never felt like we had to rush off first thing in the morning. The resort itself gave us a reason to slow down and enjoy our stay, and Kutjera Restaurant quickly became part of our daily routine.

Breakfast was a great way to start the day. The buffet had all the favourites… scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, mushrooms and hash browns, alongside pastries, fresh fruit, yoghurt and plenty of healthier options too. The kids were very impressed with the pancake maker (which was a definite highlight for them), while I was very impressed with the coffee. In fact, it’s easily one of the best coffees I’ve had in months.

After a big day exploring, dinner at Kutjera was perfect! Inspired by African flavours and using South Australian produce, the menu feels a little different from your usual family resort dining. It’s not a massive menu, but we found plenty to choose from. The flame-grilled Scotch fillet was a winner, the Moroccan pork tenderloin was delicious, but my favourite dish was actually an entrée, the Durban Lentil & Tomato Dahl. I could have happily eaten that as a main.

For the kids, the menu keeps things simple with family favourites including chicken schnitzel and chips, fish and chips, spaghetti bolognese and beef sliders.

Relaxing at the resort

While the animals are obviously the main attraction at Monarto Safari Resort, we loved having time to simply enjoy everything the resort had to offer.

The kids were very excited to discover the heated pools and, even though we visited in the middle of winter, that certainly didn’t stop them jumping in! There’s a family pool and an adults-only pool, with plenty of sun lounges and outdoor dining areas nearby, making it easy to settle in while the kids swam. We also loved the huge grassy area, where we spotted a group of kids playing and kicking a ball around while their parents relaxed nearby.

And while it’s definitely family-friendly, don’t picture a resort overrun with kids. Monarto Safari Resort still has that beautiful five-star feel, with plenty of spaces for families to enjoy while also feeling calm and relaxing for adults.

Dawn Wildlife Safari

If there’s one experience we’d recommend adding to your stay, it’s the Dawn Wildlife Safari.

We headed out at 7am on the safari truck and into the exclusive Wild Africa precinct before most people had even started their day. Being out on the open plains as the sun came up was such a cool experience. The light was beautiful, the animals were active, and it was a side of Monarto that very few visitors get to see.

The small group experience meant we could take our time, ask questions and really enjoy the ride as we spotted animals along the way. The highlight for us was seeing the hippos pop up from the water. The kids were completely fascinated, waiting to see when they would appear, and it was such a fun moment watching these huge animals just quietly going about their morning.

But the biggest surprise was how close we got to a cheetah. Seeing one of these incredible animals up close, from the comfort of the safari truck, was something we won’t forget. We also spotted giraffes, Southern White Rhino, ostriches and more along the way, with our guide sharing plenty of interesting facts and stories about the animals we were seeing.

The two-hour safari includes a guided tour on the safari truck, exclusive access to Wild Africa and light refreshments afterwards. It’s an early start, but one we’d definitely recommend adding to your stay.

Exploring Monarto Safari Park

No stay at Monarto Safari Resort would be complete without exploring Monarto Safari Park. Now the largest safari experience outside of Africa, the park spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native animals.

Having the park right next door makes it so easy with kids. No big drive, no packing everyone back into the car, just step out and start exploring. We recommend allowing at least four to five hours to really enjoy the open spaces, viewing platforms and free Zu-loop bus through the park.

Your stay helps conservation

One more thing we loved about staying at Monarto Safari Resort is that your visit helps support something bigger. A portion of every resort booking goes towards the Zoos SA Conservation Fund, helping support important conservation programs and the ongoing protection of incredible animals around the world.

So while you’re enjoying a pretty amazing family getaway, you’re also helping play a small part in protecting the wildlife you’ve come to see.

Would we go back?

100% yes!!

If you ever get the chance to experience Monarto Safari Resort, absolutely go for it. It’s one of those stays that gives you a little taste of Africa without needing a passport (or a 14-hour flight with kids!).

A family getaway with hippos, giraffes, incredible food and a little bit of relaxation thrown in? That’s a pretty wild win in our books.

Location: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto SA 5254
: 1800 016 761

Find them on and

The eagle has landed at Morialta Playground… in a 7 metre tall nest – and your kids can climb it! Yep, the Morialta Conservation Park playground is AWESOME! Best suited to kids aged 5-15years, it is great to see a play area perfect for older families. With over 100 car parks and walking trails to guide you, it makes a visit to the park even easier to navigate for families.

The stunningly designed, HUGE and super fun playground has been designed with a Nature Play theme, with elements from Aboriginal culture. This super impressive nature playground features five themed play areas that are built across the Stradbroke Road picnic area. Come ready to explore Frog Island, Eagle’s Perch, Great Snake, Bird Nests and climbing boulders, as well as paths, creeks, rock walls and climbing trees.

Please be aware that the Morialta Playground isn’t fenced, has a nearby creek and road and has plenty of areas where you’ll have to keep a hand &/or close eye on kids with high falls possible etc which makes it less suitable for younger kids but awesome fun for older ones!

Things we love about Morialta Playground:

• The whole playground is all about nature – incorporating natural elements and materials all around,
• The massive snake structure that kids can play in & on (if they are big and brave enough!),
• The GIANT Birds Nests with rope ladders, walkways, and log frames – and a giant metal slide from the biggest one!
• The HUGE expanse – this play area is actually 4 distinct spaces located next to each other in the Morialta Conservation Park,
• The featured wood carving works by local Kaurna Indigenous sculptor Allan Sumner,
• The creek – our kids LOVE to ‘search for creatures’ in the creek – so many hours spent here!,
• The short walk to the Morialta First Falls waterfall – you can even take the pram there and our 2 year old can handle the walk,
• The climb to the Giants Cave – only about 50 steps up and a great view down the valley.
• Koala spotting – we have never visited without spotting at least 1 or 2 koalas!

There are BBQs, toilets, shaded table and bench seats all around the area and solid under cover areas.

** please note that there is unrestricted/unfenced access to the creek that often flows and runs close by the playground area. It is also unfenced to Stradbroke Rd, which is about 50-80m from the Playspace.

There are numerous unpowered camping areas, complete with shared campfire circles (seasonal use) and adjacent Basecamps which have been fitted with deluxe creature comforts including toilets, hot showers, hand dryers, vanity mirrors and power points for your hairdryer. In addition to the unpowered camp sites, we highly recommend taking a look at the bell tent options. With your own private BBQ area, the bell tent includes a tent, lantern, mattresses (sleeps up to 6 people and just BYO bedding) and table and chairs.

And, your camping fee also includes access to the awesome onsite activities including Challenge Hill obstacle course, giant maze, tube slides, bouldering wall and disc golf!

AND you can enjoy a CAMPFIRE! (allowed outside of Fire Ban season generally May – November). Or make a birthday celebration really special with a Woodhouse Birthday Party!

Just $30 a head per night (Child, student, adult) or $27 a head per night for concession holders. Oh and under 5s are FREE! This includes access to the awesome onsite activities, showers, toilets and BBQ facilities. Grab a some drinks and food from the supermarket and you’re set for the weekend. 

• Under 5: Free
• Children (5-15 years) and Adults (16 years+): $30 per night 
• Concession (concession card) – $27 per night
• Family (2 adults and 2 children or 1 adult and 3 children): $105 per night

Bell tent costs below

• $135 per night (minimum 2 nights, except long weekends when there is a 3 night minimum) for up to 4 people (including all the park activities – add an extra $33.75pp per night for any add ons by under 5s are free)
• Up to 2 additional guests permitted at $33.75 per person per night.

The Bell Tent includes

• 4x single foam mattreses
• Lantern
• 4x deck chairs and a table
• Private BBQ
• Kettle
• Campfire drum

Find out more at

From the moment we checked in with the kids, it felt like the little details had been thought through. We stayed in one of the family rooms, complete with a super comfy queen bed for the adults and king single bunk beds that our kids instantly claimed as their own. The bed was honestly one of the comfiest we’ve slept in, and after a big day exploring (or in our case, shopping up a storm at nearby Westfield Marion), everyone was more than happy to climb in for an early night. The kids were delighted to find colouring packs waiting in the room, while the gorgeous Appelles kids toiletries were a lovely touch that made them feel just as special as the grown-ups.

Then there’s the food… and if you know 91¹û¶³´«Ã½, you’ll know the Hurley Group rarely misses when it comes to great hospitality. Whether you’re fuelling up with breakfast before a busy day, grabbing a casual bite after exploring the city or settling in for a relaxed family dinner, there’s something for everyone. Parents can even sneak away for sunset drinks at Wonderland in the stunning rooftop bar (18+), while the sports bar and restaurant also make it easy to enjoy quality food without having to head back out once you’ve checked in.

We also loved how convenient the location is. You’re only a short drive from the 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ CBD, Glenelg Beach, Westfield Marion, Flinders Medical Centre, 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ Oval and many of 91¹û¶³´«Ã½’s biggest attractions, yet the hotel still feels relaxed and removed from the hustle and bustle. Add in free parking, a modern gym, stylish interiors and genuinely welcoming service, and it’s easy to see why Hotel Panorama is set to become a favourite with families.

If you’re looking for accommodation that’s super modern, affordable, comfortable and makes travelling with kids just that little bit easier, Hotel Panorama is well worth adding to your list.

Location: 625 Goodwood Road, Panorama
Phone: 08 7428 3000
Find them on Ìý´Ç°ùÌý

Mount Barker Summit

Find it at: Mount Barker Summit Road, Mount Barker

Did you know Mount Barker had an actual Mountain…..that you can climb? Mount Barker Summit rises 513m above sea level and the summit is easily reached by a range of hiking trails. The Mount Barker Summit walk is one of the 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ Hills’ best-kept secrets for families. Just a 40-minute drive from 91¹û¶³´«Ã½, this easy adventure is perfect for little explorers, grandparents and everyone in between.

The short summit trail is only 500 metres return from the car park, making it ideal for younger kids or anyone wanting a quick nature fix. The gently undulating path leads to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views across the 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ Hills, Mount Barker township and beyond. On a clear day, you can even spot the Coorong and Mount Lofty in the distance.

Along the way you’ll find picnic tables and plenty of space to stop for a snack while soaking up the scenery. Kids will love climbing the rocks, spotting birds and native plants, and exploring the small nature play cubby near the lookout. Keep an eye out for the interpretive signs that share the area’s fascinating geological, cultural and environmental history, including its significance to the Peramangk people.

Feeling like a little more adventure? Families with older children can continue on the 1.7-kilometre Scenic Bush Walk, a loop trail that winds through beautiful native bushland with even more lookout points and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Need to know:

• Easy 500m return walk to the summit.
• Free entry.
• Picnic tables available.
• Dogs are permitted on lead.
• Bring hats, sunscreen and water, especially in warmer months.
• The summit car park gates are locked before dusk, so plan your visit earlier in the day.

Located on Mount Barker Summit Road at Mount Barker (about 5mins from the Main Street of Barker and all the coffee shops!), it is open 8:00am until 6:00pm (until 8:00pm during daylight savings) and is a breathtaking spot to visit during winter when there is morning fog about.

For more great family friendly things to do in the 91¹û¶³´«Ã½ Hills, click here!