Embrace the Space

Spring is here and the weather is warming. We’re all delighted that we can go on outings, meet with friends, dine at cafés and restaurants and simply break out of our homes! Obviously this still needs to occur in accordance with gathering rules, while physical distancing and wearing a mask.

On Tuesday 15 September, Greater Geelong moved to the third step on the Government’s roadmap to COVID-Normal and it is now permissible to leave home for any reason and to travel anywhere in regional Victoria. 

But this isn’t the same world we remember from before. COVID-19 has not been eliminated and there are still some restrictions in place in regional Victoria.

So the best thing to do when we enjoy our newfound freedom is to look for safe social activities.

Our region is filled with beautiful outdoor parks and reserves so why not embrace the space and enjoy the stunning locations on offer. Plan a picnic, visit a quiet beach, set out on a bush walk and unplug and unwind in a park.

The region is well known for its iconic locations – think Eastern Beach and Geelong Waterfront; Barwon River Parklands; Ocean Grove beach; the You Yangs and many more! But did you know that there is also an abundance of hidden gems!

With 133 km of coastline and 90 square kilometres of open space including protected natural habitat and wetlands (including some of international significance) as well as 334 parks, there is plenty to see and do. So why not embrace the space?

Perhaps you don’t know where to start. That’s ok! It’s pretty daunting when we have so many options. Here are some links to information that can help you find the perfect spot for your next picnic, walk, bike ride, swim or rock-pool ramble.

Time for a well-earned wander
Top tips on how to shake off your iso-blues and get back to the great outdoors. Our friends at Visit Geelong & the Bellarine have a whole host of blogs to help you get out and embrace the space.
https://www.visitgeelongbellarine.com.au/blog/time-for-a-well-earned-wander/

Parks and nature reserves
Find Geelong’s best parks, reserves, bush trails and picnic spots.
https://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/parks/plans/article/item/8cfbc59f62af441.aspx

Paths, tracks and trails
Geelong has a range of recreational trails that allow pedestrians and cyclists to explore the natural environment and its many popular attractions.
https://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/paths/default.aspx

Activity inspo
Get into nature by checking out this great list of activity ideas from Parks Victoria.
https://www.parks.vic.gov.au/things-to-do/seasonal-ideas

Get the kids out in space
Try some of these fun and easy things to do outside with your children from Active in Parks – Geelong.
http://activeinparks.org/kids-families/

Remember, it remains mandatory to wear a mask when leaving home and we need to observe a distance of 1.5 metres from others. There are restrictions on the number of people who can gather in your home, at public venues and outside.