Spring School Holidays Guide

School holidays are just around the corner, and Narrandera Shire is ready with a line-up that mixes family-friendly adventures with plenty of grown-up nights out once the kids are tucked into bed. Whether you're planning a day trip, a weekend getaway, or just looking for things to keep the kids busy, here's how to make the most of the break. 

Harnessing History at the Barellan Good Old Days Festival

3-5 October • Barellan Showgrounds

The highlight of the spring school holiday calendar is without doubt the Good Old Days Festival at Barellan. Held over the October long weekend, this much-loved event draws thousands of visitors to experience Australia's pioneering spirit in action. Step back in time as draught horses and bullocks take to the fields, vintage farm machinery roars back to life, and bush skills like blacksmithing, whip making, and butter churning are demonstrated by skilled hands. Sheepdog trials, camp oven cooking, and bush poetry add to the atmosphere, creating a true celebration of country life. 

This year also features a record-breaking attempt to harness the greatest number of draught horses to pull a wool wagon - a spectacle you won't want to miss. On Friday, compete in the children's races, including Barellan Hobby Horse Cup and the Teamsters Dash for the big kids and junior and senior tug-o-war competition. Stay for dinner with BBQ and food vans from 5PM before James Blundell with Lachie Cossor and band hit the AgnVET stage at 6:30PM. 

For the full program tickets, and more visit www.barellanclydesdales.com.au. 

Fun for Kids and Teens

Keeping the kids entertained is easy these holidays, thanks to a full program from the Narrandera Youth Council and local partners. Budding artists can pick up a brush with The Wild Easel's painting session at the Railway Station on 30 September, while outdoor adventurers can spend a whole day on the water at Rocky Waterholes, kayaking and paddleboarding under the spring sun on 1 October. Wellbeing gets its turn with a Pilates workshop at Empowr Health, and the week rounds off with a relaxed movie night at the Youth Space. All of these activities are for ages 10 and up. 

Families looking to embrace the warmer weather will be pleased to hear the Lake Talbot Water Park reopens on 4 October. With water slides, splash zones, and plenty of space to run and play, it's the perfect way to enjoy the sunshine. 

For younger children, the Bidgee Hotel's kids' craft day offers a creative afternoon in a welcoming setting. And for those who love the natural world, the Hollows as Homes workshop at the Narrandera Landcare Food Garden will give kids the chance to build possum dreys while learning about local wildlife. It's a free hands-on activity, connecting play with purpose. Tickets are available through Humanitix. 

After Dark

Once the daytime activities wind down, there's still plenty happening for the grown-ups. The Bidgee Hotel's karaoke night on 27 September is the perfect way to kick off the holidays with friends. A week later, Just A Girl will perform live in Grong Grong at the Royal Hotel on 3 October. Add in the Grongy Pub's monthly raffle and you've got all the makings of a classic Riverina night out. It's the perfect way to kick off the long weekend. 

Music fans won't want to miss Terry Leonard and the Rockwell Band at the Narrandera Ex-Servicemen's Club on 8 October, where classic rock 'n roll from the '50s and '60s will have audiences dancing the night away. Tickets are $25pp and available from the Club office.