Quality family time :)

We've just had a lovely (half) day at the miniature tain rides in vasto place, Balcatta.http://www.ndmes.net/about.html

Run by the Northern Suburbs Model Engineering Society on the last Sunday of each month, there is only one rule- everyone must wear fully closed in shoes- even if you don't intend on taking a ride.

It costs $6 entry for everyone over the age of two, and includes unlimited rides for the kids AND adults. You can get a family of 2 adults and up to 4 children in for $24. There are a couple gas bbq's (free to use) in a fenced off kiddie safe area, a big gazebo that can be reserved for parties and plenty of picnic tables on the lawn area. There is a small kiosk selling cans of soft drink, teas and coffees and icypoles for the kids and a clean toilet block.

The model engines are true replicas running on coal powered steam, and take kids, parents, grandparents and others for unlimited rides between the opening hours of 10am til 2pm. Pack the esky with a picnic lunch and a blanket and spend a relaxed, low-cost day with the kids. I took a newspaper and the kids just went round and round and round making the most of the unlimited rides.

This is not a fancy, plastic theme park with perfect gardens and inflated prices and lots of rules. That's what I like about it. Just some model engine enthusiasts opening their gates to the public once a month to share their passion :)

See you there next month!