FAMILY HOLIDAYS

BIG4 members’ secret winter getaways: Part 6

Maroochydore is a magical destination in Southeast Queensland. Let's find out more about it.

Whether it's the allure of the high-quality fishing, the relaxing river walks or hitting the farmers' markets, Tina Wilson is a regular to this glorious winter paradise ...

Tina and her family regularly visit the region in winter.

When you go on winter escapes in Australia, where do you go? Why do you choose this location?

Answer: Maroochydore, Sunshine Coast. Beautiful weather. Terrific scenery and many wonderful activities for families, including fishing, swimming, animal parks, (Australia Zoo – Beerwah, SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast [formerly UnderWater World]), Bli Bli Castle (full of dolls and wonderful treasures) and great shopping and dining, yet far enough away to enjoy the tranquility and peaceful surrounds of the majestic Maroochydore River.

Does it get any better than this?

What are your favourite activities during your winter holidays?

Answer: Walking around the camping ground, exploring the many activities in the local area. A walk around the billabong. Fishing off the jetty provided at the BIG4 or fishing off the banks of the Maroochydore River. Safe swimming for the family in the pool or safe swimming in the river.

Tina's kids and friends briefly stop their activities for a group selfie.

Which holiday parks do you stay in during your winter escape, and why?

Answer: Rivershore Resort at Maroochydore River.

This park is only fairly new. A well-designed very family-friendly park. We used to stay when the BIG4 was on the other side of the Diddillibah Bridge. Walks along the river in the evenings soaking up the pure indulgence of the night moon, smell of the fresh salt water and watching the pelicans nestle on the banks of the river.

The park has large seating areas allocated for family fires. Laughing and conversation around the open fire at night.

Truly terrific.

Camping just gets better and better.

Why would you recommend this location to BIG4 members and other travellers?

Answer: Comfortable and great accommodation. Friendly and helpful, professional services. All amenities provided, including bait for fishing off the camping ground jetty. Large sit-down family fire pits. Well-designed, peaceful and restful. Restaurant/bar and family-friendly activities on site. Always something for the family to enjoy.

There's plenty to do in Maroochydore. But opting out is perfectly fine as well.

What cafes/attractions and restaurants do you visit when at this location?

Answer: Diddillibah Hotel is a 5min walk across the street for wonderful meals and is very family-orientated. And 5min up the road is a large fruit shed with good-priced local farming produce.

Bli Bli Castle is 10min by car. Large water park 15min away at Bli Bli. Wakeboarding and plenty of fishing. Not far from Maroochydore shopping precinct, which is 15min away. And the Cotton Tree markets every Sunday, which offers farming products and home-made crafts.