News and Blogs | Ellendale

Five Must-Try Activities this Summer

Written by Cedar Woods | 14 December 2023

 Queensland’s famous warm weather has arrived, and if you're looking for ways to make the most of your time this summer in the local community, you're in for a treat.  

From exploring serene natural wonders to mouthwatering culinary adventures, we’ve put together a local’s guide to the five best activities to do in and around Ellendale this season.

Make a Splash at Ferny Grove Aqua Park 

Beat the heat on scorching days with a visit to the nearby Ferny Grove Aqua Park, just a quick five-minute drive from Ellendale. 

This interactive water wonderland has been thoughtfully designed with a ground-level splash pad area complete with an enormous overhead water bucket, spray runners, water cannons, overhead sprays, and an array of ground play equipment, promising endless aquatic excitement.  

There's also a water table for wheelchair users and toddlers to enjoy. 

Conveniently located around the park are shaded barbecue facilities, making the aqua park an ideal spot to set up for the day and refuel for more water-based adventures.

Learn more at https://www.playscapecreations.com.au/ferny-grove-aqua-park/  

Unleash your inner chef 

If the way to your heart is through your stomach – you’re in luck! Only a 15-minute drive from Ellendale is one of Brisbane’s best culinary classes specialising in Asian cuisine, Taya Kitchen Culinary School.  

The Traveller's Choice Award Winning masterclasses cover Thai, Korean, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine, and are run by the ever-charming Chef Taya, who has more than 25 years of cooking experience under her belt that began in her mother's Thai restaurant at 10-years-old. 

Each class includes multiple mouth-watering dishes and a personalised recipe booklet for you to take home and recreate your dishes for yourself or loved ones.  

No matter what your cooking skill level is, you’re sure to enjoy cooking (and sampling) your way through the classes — and the bonus of no dishes for you to do once done!

Learn more at https://tayakitchen.com.au/  

Explore the Home Collective Markets  

Support local businesses and discover one-of-a-kind gifts to spoil yourself or your loved ones at the Home Collective Markets. In December, Newmarket Village will host a Twilight market will take place on December 16, from 4pm to 8pm. Both events will feature a diverse array of stallholders, showcasing a delightful range of items, including homewares, plants, jewellery, and so much more to captivate your senses. 

While you explore the market, don't forget to indulge your taste buds with delicious treats and meals from Newmarket Village's eateries, including culinary gems like Little Red Dumpling, FishBowl, and The Yiros Shop.  

And if that's not enough, Newmarket Village is also home to Reading Cinemas, ensuring you can catch the latest summer holiday blockbusters. 

Learn more at https://www.newmarket-village.com.au/news/the-home-collective-markets  

Discover D’Aguilar National Park

Embrace the great outdoors and stay active by exploring Walkabout Creek in D’Aguilar National Park, only a short drive from Ellendale Upper Kedron.

Spend time nestled amongst nature as you soak up the picturesque landscape along one of the two walking trails, then enjoy a hearty meal at Walkabout Creek Cafe before spending the rest of your afternoon by the stunning Enoggera Reservoir. 

On your drive back home, you can also stop by Samford Valley along Lanita Road to explore its charming shops and eateries. 

For more at https://www.walkaboutcreek.com.au/walkabout.../wildlife/ 

Have the perfect day out at Ellendale's leafy amenities 

You don’t have to travel far from Ellendale to enjoy the outdoors, with a wealth of green amenities in the heart of our community, surrounded by picturesque bushland.

Visit our very own state-of-the-art park and playground, featuring two slides, a four-person see-saw, an eight-metre tall three-level play tower, bikeways, walkways, and a 500sqm kick-about space.  

The surrounding lush grassy areas also offer an ideal and tranquil spot for parents to soak up the sun or enjoy a book. 

Nearby, you’ll find our barbeque area and sheltered lookouts, ideal for hosting outdoor cookouts or catching up with family or friends over a meal, while the kids make full use of the adjoining playground and park. 

Learn more at https://www.cedarwoods.com.au/ellendale/our-community/community-facilities/