Nature Treasure Hunts

Parks Victoria is hosting Nature Treasure Hunts along with over 150 outdoor activities as part of the Junior Ranger program these Easter holidays, 8 to 18 April.

Park Rangers host the free Junior Ranger program for kids aged 6 to 12 and their families to have fun learning in nature, get outdoors and better understand Victoria's wonderful plants, wildlife and amazing natural and cultural heritage.

All Junior Ranger activities are designed to inspire curiosity, whether it's going on a Nature Treasure Hunt, searching for creatures on a Minibeast Discovery, Megabat Flyout or as a Wildlife Detective, learning about plants as a Flora Explorer, or hearing about the history of our environment on a cultural walk and talk.

Parks Victoria Education and Interpretation Officer, James Adams, says the variety of activities we run in our Junior Ranger program engages kids and families in exploring the natural world around them.

"At Parks Victoria, we believe nature is essential for human health and wellbeing and that everyone should have the opportunity to connect with nature, especially children."

"Spending time playing and learning outdoors provides children with developmental benefits such as improved physical and mental health and social connections," says James.

Ten-year-old Nandita Chander has been to Junior Ranger activities across Melbourne and looks forward to them every school holidays.

"I love being a Junior Ranger because I get to learn hands-on about nature. I have explored beaches searching for carnivorous crustacean shells and am fascinated by the diverse life that exists even though we can't see it with our bare eyes!"

"I have learned about my country, its unique plants and animals and how we must care for them. It is a family outing that we all learn from and enjoy," says Nandita.

All activities are free but bookings are essential and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Be the first to know what's on by signing up to the Junior Ranger Mailing List.

Visit the website juniorrangers.com.au for activity locations and dates, and to register your attendance. For more information call Parks Victoria on 13 1963.