If we’ve learned anything in the last two years, it’s how important it is to manage stress and uncertainty, and one of the best ways of doing this is getting back to nature for some green time.
So what is ‘green time’?
We all spend a lot of time on our screens these days, which is great for working remotely, entertainment and keeping in touch, but does involve a lot of sitting down. Green time is a great antidote, say researchers. According to a recent study at the University of Adelaide, kids and teenagers can improve their health, wellbeing, and even their grades by spending more time outdoors.
Getting back to nature is good for your body and soul. It reduces stress, lowers the chance of non-communicable illness, and can be a lot of fun. While these benefits are essential for children, adults also enjoy the rewards that come from a dose of the great outdoors.
Get some green time in Mount Gambier
The simplest way to enjoy some green time is to hang out in your own backyard. Of course, Mount Gambier also offers a swathe of other unique opportunities for the more adventurous and those without the luxury of a yard.
The Umpherston Sinkhole: If you are only starting to discover Mount Gambier, head straight to the Umpherston Sinkhole. Originally a cave, the sinkhole formed when the ground above collapsed many years ago. After discovering the cave in the 1800s, James Umpherston created a leafy paradise in its depths. Now open to the public, the sinkhole gardens are stunningly lush.
Cave Gardens Sinkhole: The Umpherston Sinkhole isn’t the only sinkhole garden worth your time around Mount Gambier. Things to do at the Cave Gardens Sinkhole include admiring the view from the suspended platform, picnicking, photo opportunities (perfect for bridal photos), and taking a walk. Visit in the spring and you can also enjoy the garden’s famous roses in bloom.
Valley Lake Wildlife Park: Getting into nature can have even more impact if you can also enjoy native wildlife. At the Valley Lake Wildlife Park, visitors are welcome to wander around and explore. You will come across all sorts of native animals, including emus, wallabies, and kangaroos. There are viewing platforms to stop and enjoy the flora and fauna and plenty of spots to set up a picnic.
Mount Gambier Railway Lands: If you live in Mount Gambier, things to do on the weekend will often feature the Railway Lands. This public space in the heart of Mount Gambier is the ideal blend of nature and urban living. Built along the old railway lines in a way that preserves the past while keeping an eye on the future, the Railway Lands feature stunning nature playgrounds for kids. It is also a cultural hub, hosting markets, art events, concerts and countless other treats.
Myora Forest Reserve: For a more extended stay in nature, just 14km out of Mount Gambier is the Myora Forest Reserve, where you and your family can enjoy camping, hiking, or cycling among the majestic snow gums. If you are lucky, you might even spot a yellow-bellied glider. These little possums love the snow gums and are identifiable by their distinctive yellow bellies.
Parks and playgrounds: Mount Gambier has plenty of places to play. For older kids, you can’t go past the skatepark at Suttontown, a terrific hangout for the under 20s crowd. It may not be as green as some other locations, but it gives older kids and young people an active outdoor area to enjoy.
These are just a few of the things to do in Mount Gambier to get back to nature. To find out more about living on the Limestone Coast, contact us today.
