By pure coincidence, our overseas holiday to Australia bookended the start of the Covid-19 outbreak and the end of it as a global pandemic. Can’t exactly pinpoint why the family chose Australia but I guess a lot got to do with the familiarity, relative proximity and cooling weather. On this occasion, we began our 2-week vacation by flying into Brisbane before gradually making our way to other popular destinations such as Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Here is a review of my family holiday to Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast which are located in Queensland, Australia.
Theme Parks
Olympia’s love for theme parks was sparked by her visit to Universal Studios Singapore. She surprised us all at how fearless she was on the Enchanted Airways which I consider as a thrilling roller coaster ride for the kids. In Gold Coast, we bought a Super Pass package which entitles the adult unlimited entries to Movie World, Sea World, Wet n’ Wild and Paradise Country within a 7-day window. After discount on Klook, it only cost S$145/pax which I found it pretty value for money.
Olympia had a blast as we visited Movie World not once but twice. Olympia got to try go-karting for the first time which made her realised that she should never take her foot off the pedal- a good life lesson 😀

Diagram 1: Junior Driving School at Movie World
With the Super Pass Package, we tried all the rides that she was eligible for and it allowed us to explore at a leisurely pace. After visiting all the theme parks, what surprised me was that shows involving high adrenaline performances (think fast cars) or stunts by animals were appreciated only by the adults. It elicited at best dead silence or at worst a yawn from Olympia.

Diagram 2: Affinity Dolphin Presentation at Sea World
On the other hand, Olympia screamed her lungs off when Paw Patrol emerged on the stage.

Diagram 3: A screaming and dancing Olympia juxtaposed with stoic-looking adults at Paw Patrol show, Sea World
Here are some tips for families:
- A multi-park pass package is perfect because it is almost impossible to complete all the rides in a theme park within a day when you are travelling with a toddler. Just anchor your visit on either Village Roadshow’s Theme Park or Ardent Leisure World (operates Dreamworld, WhiteWater World, SkyPoint and SkyPoint Climb) to get the most value for your money.
- Preferably, you would want to visit these theme parks when your kid is over 100/105cm. This the minimum height for the more thrilling rides for the little ones. Despite my best efforts to induce a growth spurt (hang-ups and extra milk) in Olympia, she still fell a few centimetres short of 100cm.
- Asian kids are small compared to Australian kids. Most park attendants at the gantry thought Olympia was a 2-year-old and were surprised when we showed the child tickets that 3-year-old and above need to purchase. You get the hint?
Australian Animals
Since we had the Super Pass, we also took the opportunity to visit Paradise Country, an Australian farm experience. The major highlight of this attraction would be Olympia’s maiden ride on a pony.

Diagram 4: Olympia riding a pony for the first time at Paradise Country
She let out a “whoo” when the pony took its first steps as she probably didn’t expect it to be bumpy. Immediately after she disembarked from the pony, she asked to try the other pony which was behind her. I responded, “Olympia, there is a long queue and we should let other children have the chance to ride the pony too.” The truth was that one pony ride cost A$5 and only last less than 2 mins!
What warmed my heart the most was seeing the gentle side of Olympia when interacting with the animals on this holiday. I didn’t know that there is this side of her in this little cheeky fella!

Diagram 5: She was very patient when feeding the kangaroos at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
Personally, the highlight of the trip was visiting Australia Zoo at Sunshine Coast. I truly felt the strong wildlife conservation spirit of the Irwin family. Visiting the Africa section when I saw the vast expanse of grass that the animals had easily took my breath away. It instantaneously reminded me of my honeymoon in South Africa.

Diagram 6: See what I mean? Cheeky Oly showing her funny face while posing with a huge crocodile
Museums
The other type of attraction that we knew Olympia would like is the museum. This is an activity that we do quite often in Singapore since her preschool is located near various museums. We went to a couple of museums in Brisbane and the best part was that they were absolutely free!

Diagram 7: Olympia trying to find stick insect eggs at Queensland Museum

Diagram 8: Olympia displaying her drawing at the Queensland Gallery of Modern Art Children Art Centre
We also visited the Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium. We paid to watch a show titled “Tycho Goes to Mars” and the wife said it was the best $10 spent ever! It was an apt introduction to our planet system for Olympia.
Natural Parks
If you visit Sir Thomas Brisbane Planetarium, do not forget to walk over to Mount Coot-tha Botanic Garden. During our visit, we were quite lucky that it was the cherry blossom season at its Japanese Garden.

Diagram 9: Cherry blossom season in Japanese Garden, Mt Coot-tha Botanic Garden
Playground
As it was winter and given the Australia culture, most places of interest close by 5pm. To fill the time from then to dinner, we explored the playground and parks in the neighbourhood. We went to so many playgrounds throughout the trip that I felt like I was representing the town council on a work trip. Not that I was complaining because the playgrounds in Australia never fail to amaze me. Some of the memorable features included big pillowy bouncy castle, tandem swing, flying fox and even a cycling race track. Besides, playing in such weather and not sweating is one of the experiences that Singapore cannot provide. I would recommend checking out these playgrounds in Brisbane.
- Riverside Green Playground, South Brisbane
- Brisbane City Botanic Gardens Playground
- Neal Macrossan Playground at Paddington Skatepark
In Gold Coast, you must visit the South Lawn Broadwater Parklands. It was so fun that even teenagers were having a blast as well. Playground is one of the most amazing inventions because it will tire the children out and bring immense respite to the parent.
Food
Besides researching intensively on children’s activities for the holiday, I also spent time to hunt for amazing food. Out of all the casual eats and dining restaurants that we have tried on our trip, here are the ones that I would recommend to Heartland Boy’s readers:
Gold Coast
- The Fresh Pantry – would rate this as the best place we had for brunch on the entire trip. Everything on the plate was freshly made and it really was honest cooking done right. It was so good we nearly made a return trip the very next day!

Diagram 13: Apple Pie Pancakes – braised apple and cinnamon, oat crumble, fresh apples and strawberries etc
- The Local Café – good lunch spot
- Flour of Life – bakery with amazing selection
- Shiraz Persian Restaurant- the slow-cooked lamb neck (Gardan) was so tender and easy
- Indian Empire- the Barra Kebab Masala was out of this world which had me slurping up the gravy
We particularly love Farmers Markets as it is an opportunity to sample local food and purchase local produce while immersing in the relaxed mood. Diagram 14 show Olympia trying crepe but she stopped in her tracks upon reaching the slaw.

Diagram 14: Olympia trying a crepe done Okonomiyaki-style at Currumbin Community Markets
Sunshine Coast
- 24 Thai Street – Thai and Japanese fusion food is served here. This is the other restaurant that made me want to go back to try more items.
- Sunshine Coast Collective Markets – this farmer’s market has interesting toys placed on the grass to keep the little ones occupied so that the adults can eat in peace!

Diagram 15: Off to play time after her breakfast so that her parents can have breakfast
Of course, a trip to Australia would not be complete without introducing Olympia to Messina. Their award-winning gelato are simply out of this world.
I finally got to utilise one of the benefits of my crypto.com card – visiting the lounge! I brought Olympia into the lounge so that she can have her dinner without waiting for hot food to be served on the flight.

Diagram 16: Olympia visit to Marhaba Lounge at Changi Airport T1 was free thanks to crypto.com credit card
Budget for my family holiday to Australia
Cost wise, I would say budget approx. S$3K per adult for a 2-week trip. Unfortunately, inflation is real and I count myself lucky by purchasing my air tickets relatively early.
I saved quite a substantial amount of money by purchasing most of the attractions’ tickets via Klook by double dipping with ongoing credit card promotions. I even booked my rental car on the platform to snag a very good deal -$600 for 8 days of rent.
When ShopBack was running an upsized cashback promotion, I seized the opportunity to purchase my accommodation on Booking.com. The cashback was very substantial at 20%. That’s easily $200 off $1,000 worth of accommodation.
Finally, don’t even try to skimp on travel insurance during this period- I bought mine on SingSaver.
My family had such a lovely time for this holiday and I guess this photo says it all!
PM me if you would like a copy of my itinerary! If you enjoyed this article, I will be grateful if you could purchase your travel insurance from my affiliate links below:
Since so many readers have asked about my accommodation, I stayed in Hilton and Hyatt in Brisbane which had direct access to Queen Street Mall. For Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, I stayed in holiday resorts which can be found on booking.com or AirBnb.
–
If you have not heard of Trust Bank, you might be guilty of living under the rock! Trust Bank is a digital bank by Standard Chartered and NTUC and their products consists of savings account, credit card and insurance. To celebrate their maiden launch, Trust is giving out $35 NTUC vouchers + other freebies. Use my referral code S7CEKBDE when you sign up for the Trust App so that you will get the welcome gift.
*Note that this article contains referral links that goes to maintain the sustainability of this blog
Looks like a good holiday you had!
Hey we did! Thanks.
hey heartland boy,
also planning for an aussie trip next year. thinking of the east (perth) or west (like yours, ie brisbane)
for family of 7 A + 2 infants/todds…. younger than your daughter, which area would you recommended? gunning towards more kid + elderly friendly type..
also which car rental did u you use?
not sure if mini van will fit 9 pax and luggages ,, or should just get 2x cars….
btw, do you know if sinkie Class 3 can drive minivans?
oh, your CRO card is higher tier right? red no lounge lo..
sorry, my bad geography:
west(perth) or east (like yours, ie brisbane)
Hi FC,
I think Perth is probably more suitable because you can do a scenic drive down to margaret river which is a foodie destination.
I think you definitely need 2 cars because you got to consider the luggage. Yes, I have a Jade Green CRO card!
Hi Alison,
Great write-up! I would like to have a copy of your itinerary!
Thanks in advance for your generosity! Stay safe! PMed you.
Thanks Will for your compliments. I have sent you the itinerary!
Would love to have your itinerary if you are open to sharing.
thanks!
Hi Ralph,
Can you pm me your email address pls?
How old is she? she looks very happy
Hi Johan,
She is 3+, a very smiley child since birth!
hi alison! may i have a copy of the itinerary? you can email me. thanks.
Sorry can you help me delete my previous post as it has my email on it.
Hi Xavier,
I have pm-ed you! enjoy your holidays!
Definitely saving this post for a future trip. Would love a copy of your itinerary. Thanks!
Hi,I have pm-ed you! You are welcome
Was gonna head to goldcoast in late 22, but it clashed with schoolies week… made different plans.
Would love a copy of the itinerary. Thanks for sharing!
Hi JD,
You definitely can head there in 2023! Have pm-ed you the itinerary!
Hi
I would like a copy if the itinerary. Thanks!
Sure, I have pm-ed you
Hi ! Please kindly share your intinerary 🙂
Hi Alan,
I have pm-ed you. Enjoy.
Hello – enjoyed this post. I’m gonna be moving to Brisbane w my family soon. would appreciate your itinerary if you can share please.
Hi Han,
Thanks, I have pm-ed you. all the best to your relocation!
Hi, your itinerary looks great! Will you be able to share it with me. We are planning a trip in dec. thanks!
Hi,
I have pm-ed you!
Hi! We planning a trip next yr June.. what’s the weather like? Could you share your itinerary? Thanks in advance!
Hi Melissa,
Sure, I have pm-ed you
Hello ! I am planning a trip to Brisbane next year ard april-may with my family (2A + 2 toddlers).
Your itineary looks great 🙂 Would you mind sharing pls ? Thank you !
Hi Jinette,
I have PM-ed you! enjoy your trip!
Hi there,
Sounds fun already – we are planning to go in April next year.
May I have a copy of your itinerary? This is the exact route I was planning on doing with not one but two toddlers! Wish me luck!
Thank you!
Valerie
Hi Valerie,
I have PM-ed you. Good luck but rem to have lots of fun!
Hi,
I am thinking of visiting Australia next year and would love to have a copy of your itinerary. Thanks in advance! 😃
Hi Alice,
I have pm-ed you! Enjoy your holidays!
Hey Alison, going to Brisbane and Gold Coast next year. Appreciate if can share the itinerary. Thanks!
Hi James,
i have pm-ed you! Enjoy your holidays
Hi Alison! What a nice review! The last I went Brisbane was when I was a kid. Was thinking of bringing my own kid next year! Could you share your itinerary with me? Appreciate it!
Hi Melody,
Thanks for your compliment. Enjoy your holidays!
Hi Alison,
Thank you for the nice writeup. Could you send me a copy of your itinerary pls? thank you.
Hi,
I have pm-ed you! Enjoy your holidays!
Hi! Thanks for the detailed write up. It’s very helpful! Could I have a copy of your itinerary please? Thank you!
Hi thanks for the generous sharing and love how you have written in such a concise and easy-to-read manner! I haven’t been to Queensland at all but would definitely visit some of these places that you have mentioned when I am there later this year. If you don’t mind sharing a copy of your itinerary, I would be super grateful!
Hi Sylvia,
Thanks for your compliments. I have pm-ed you!
Hi Alison, would you mind sharing your itinerary please?
Hi, I have pm-ed you! Enjoy your holidays
Hi, could i have your itinerary please? will be going there in june this year also. Thanks
Hi,
Pm-ed you! Enjoy your holidays!
Thanks for sharing your fun time. Would you be so kind to share your itinerary please? Thanks!
Sure, I have pm-ed you!
Hi Alison,
We are planning to visit Brisbane in next few month. Could you share your itinerary with me? Thank you in advance.
Sure, I have pm-ed you!
Hello! Came across your website when I googled kids friendly itinerary for Brisbane. It was ages ago that I went there when I was a teenager so I am quite lost! I’ll be bringing my girls 7&5 to there in June! We are there for the koalas of course playground and nature parks. Do you mind sharing your itinerary with me? Thank you.
Hey, I have pm-ed you!
Hi Alison. Could you please share your itinerary with me please? Thank you in advance.
Pmed you!
Hi can you PM your itinerary to me? Thank you, planning a vacation in May.
PM-ed you!
First trip to Australia with my 2 year old in July. Enjoyed the write up and convinced me to spend some time in BNE. Would appreciate a copy of your itinerary. Thanks in advance.
Hi Jonathan, I have pm-ed you!
Hihi.. do you mind sharing your itinerary for this trip? We are planning for one in Dec but the air tickets are expensive at the moment..
Chowsland at hotmail dot com
Thanks in advance
Hi,
I have pm-ed you! enjoy your holiday if you are indeed going.
Hi, enjoyed your field trip and will appreciate if you can share your itinerary.
Planning a trip for next year.. many thanks!
Hi, I have already pm-ed you! enjoy
Hello!! can I get your itinerary please? 🙂 am intending to bring my 2 and 4 year old to Brisbane/Gold Coast next year!! thank you!! 🙂
PM-ed you!
hi can you please share the itinerary with me pls? thank you
Hi Tricia,
Already PM you
Hi, I have a toddler and a teenager. Would like to refer to your itinerary plus doing some homework for the teenager. Possible to pm me your itinerary? Do let me know if you have good recommendations for teenager too 😄 thanks!