HOLIDAYS plans have again been thrown into disarray by the pandemic and closure of borders, so, even if you're planning to stick around in Leeton this summer, there's still plenty to keep the kids entertained.
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We've put together a bit of a list of how you can keep the kids entertained on a budget during the January school break, but it's really only scrapping the surface.
All it takes is a bit of thought and looking around what is on offer here in the shire to know there's plenty to do.
1 Visit the Leeton Museum and Art Gallery
The new Leeton Museum and Art Gallery has plenty to take in, best of all entry is free for all displays.
There's photo exhibitions currently running, as well as the story of water in Leeton shire.
This is a great chance for the kids to learn a little bit of history about the town they live in.
Hot tip: Make your way through the water exhibition to the left of the museum where you'll come across a miniature version of the Roxy Theatre, something that is sure to delight both young and old (and a good photo opportunity as well).
2 Take a walk through the CBD to find and read the art deco heritage plaques
Another free activity that will also get the kids out of the house and moving around.
Spot each plaque and read out the brief details engraved that showcase a history of many of Leeton's wonderful art deco buildings.
We spend so much time looking down or straight ahead, so show the kids the value in "looking up". Have them see if they can point out some of the art deco features atop buildings in the main street.
Hot tip: Of course one of Leeton's most iconic art deco buildings is the Historic Hydro Motor Inn. Take a walk past and maybe use your imagination to come up with a spooky story or two to tell the kids about the buildings - after all rumour has it the hydro is home to the odd ghost or two!
3 Enjoy the serenity of the Murrumbidgee River and Gogeldrie Weir
Why not head out to the Murrumbidgee River for a spot of fishing, swimming, kayaking, skiing or paddleboarding?
The ideas are endless and again, all relatively cheap if you have the equipment on hand already.
It's also a good spot for a picnic, just remember to take all rubbish home with you.
Hot tip: Gogeldrie Weir is also the ideal place to escape home for a night or two of camping or a night in their cabins. A mini holiday at home that won't break the bank.
4 Take in the brand new Whitton Malt House
If you haven't already been out to the Whitton Malt House, what are you waiting for?
There is so much to see and do at the shire's newest tourism destination.
It's also not just for mum and dad. There's plenty for the kids to do with play equipment, exploring and aqua golf all providing fun activities for the whole family.
There's also delicious food and beverages for all ages.
Hot tip: Like Gogeldrie Weir, there is also the opportunity to spend the night at the Whitton Malt House. Costs are more expensive than camping, but the quality of the luxury accommodation at the malt house grounds will have you relaxing and unwinding in no time at all.
5 Milkshakes, juices, treats and more
Don't want to put in too much effort because the crafty kids have run you down already these school holidays, but you still want to get them out of the house?
There's plenty of cafes and restaurants all open that offer cool drinks and treats that is sure to keep the kids satisfied and quiet at least for a few minutes.
Milkshakes, thick shakes, yummy lunches - the opportunities are endless and all priced well.
It's also an opportunity to just sit down together and talk - away from tablets, iPads and video games.
Hot tip: Give the kids say $5 each and take them into the Leeton Community Op Shop and have them search around for items they like and can purchase with just a couple of bucks.
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BONUS IDEAS: The Leeton Skate Park is the perfect spot for active youngsters, Yanco's McCaughey Park has its very own splash park which is the perfect place to cool off, run around on the play equipment and perhaps enjoy a picnic in the shade.
