ON the hunt for some outdoor fun with the kids? It might be time to try a scavenger hunt. Luckily, somebody else has done the leg work. That person is Kathryn Lane from Harvist Road Creative Design, the brain behind Newy with Kids' new self-directed scavenger hunts keeping the cogs turning for families as the school holidays end.
Newy with Kids says its five scavenger hunts scattered around the city have been a hit already, with more than 2000 downloads of the activities.
The five hunts so far include Blackbutt Reserve, Civic Park and Honeysuckle, Foreshore Park, Stockton and Wallsend's Brickworks Park. A sixth is in the works centred on Newcastle Museum and is slated for a February release.
While they are geared towards ages four to 16, they're open to the young at heart as well. Newy with Kids chief fun finder and candidate for best job title ever Reena Bilen said the idea was to entertain families while adding some education around iconic parts of Newcastle.
"The hunts are self-directed, so once you have your map you can go at your own pace," Ms Bilen said.
"They are a great activity for families to do together as you hunt for points of interest and answer the questions listed on the map to solve the mystery phrase."
"It's the perfect opportunity to take in the sights of the city, discover our landmarks and learn interesting things about parts of Newcastle that you have probably passed a hundred times but never noticed before."
For those who have maybe skipped escape rooms for fear of never getting out, don't worry - there's a hints and tips page on the website for those who may find themselves a bit outmatched by one or more of the conundrums.
The scavenger hunts are the product of a City of Newcastle grant, and they're available in hard copy at Museum Park's visitor information centre or for download from the Newy with Kids website.
Other suggestions so far include Ash Island and Fort Scratchley. Which sites would you like to see join the hunt next?
We're all sick of it, but do it right
THE scene is set for a four-day weekend, but the Hunter Business Chamber has a message for those pre-planning Monday's mystery 24-hour illness: have a chat and do it the right way.
"Business owners and managers have had a tough time through COVID as well and the last thing they need is to be left short-staffed on Monday or have the financial and administrative burden of having to call in last-minute casuals to cover unplanned leave," CEO Bob Hawes said.
"I really encourage both employers and employees to have that conversation and put formal leave arrangements in place.
"That way, everything is above board and workers wont have to front up to the boss on Wednesday to explain why there was an Instagram photo of them at the beach on Monday."
