Parents all over the country are gearing up for the school holidays, perhaps wondering how to keep primary school-aged children entertained over the long haul. The Rock Adventure Centre in Newtown offers an exciting day (or days) out, where parents can relax over a coffee while kids are supervised.
The centre, launched in 2001, has climbing walls up to 12 metres high, with more than 100 climbs to test every level. Kids as young as five are able to tackle a wall, with a belayer (the person who holds the rope to keep climbers safe) required to be at least 13 years old.
But the primary school-aged kids are supervised in sessions running from 2-4pm each Tuesday and Thursday during the holidays. They can experience the thrill of climbing, while the grown-ups kick back. Sounds good, yes? Just make sure a booking is made.
Older kids and adults can get in on the fun, too, with instructors always available to show beginners the ropes. There are challenges enough for every ability and experience level – and the centre is open every day. It’s a fab experience for the entire family who can get into “Geelong’s vertical obsession”.
During the school term, the centre has a Climb-It Club for primary schoolers. This offers two sessions of structured and supervised climbing and training each week, with an end-of-term outdoor trip to test out their skills on the local cliffs.
FAQs ANSWERED
• Participants under 18 years old must have a parent sign an agreement before climbing.
• The Rock instructors take participants through a safety instruction session.
• All rock climbing equipment is available for rent, including harnesses.
• Wear tracksuit pants and t-shirt, or anything that allows free movement. Running shoes (with good sole grip) are adequate for kids and beginners.
• Except for above mentioned supervised sessions, the centre does not provide belayers.
The Rock Adventure Centre , rear 403 Pakington Street (river end), Newtown. Opens from noon daily (except public holidays). Inquiries: 5221 3101 or www.rockadventures.com.au
