General News
23 June, 2026
Blockbuster school holiday program to start
Central Goldfields Shire Council is inviting families to warm up this winter with a packed program of free and low‑cost activities these school holidays, running June 27 to July 12.
The Winter Holiday Program features hands‑on workshops, creative arts, craft, sensory play, science shows, and daily activities at council’s Maryborough and Dunolly libraries, Central Goldfields Art Gallery, Engage Youth Space and Visitor Centre. Events will also be held at the community-led Maryborough Toy Library.
Most sessions are free, with several drop‑in options perfect for busy families.
Program Highlights
Saturday, June 27 — Calling all Builders!
10.30 am — 12.30 pm, Maryborough Toy Library: Kids can build, stack, knock down and explore a huge range of construction toys. No bookings required, free entry for children accompanied by a carer.
Tuesday, June 30 — Sensory Explorers
9.30 — 11 am, Maryborough Toy Library: A stay‑and‑play session showcasing sensory toys and activities. No bookings required - free entry for children accompanied by a carer.
Wednesday, July 1 and Thursday, July 2 — Acting and Theatre Making Workshop
A free two‑day Acting & Theatre Making Workshop for young people (ages 12–25) will run July 1–2 at Engage Youth Space in Maryborough. Led by theatre maker Kate Stones, the program explores acting, storytelling, movement, improvisation and creative collaboration, finishing with an informal showing for family and friends. Places are limited and registration is required.
Thursday, July 2 — Science Fun at the Library
11 am Maryborough Library/2 pm Dunolly Library: A hands‑on workshop exploring sound and vibration, followed by a high‑energy science show with Mad Science Mayhem. Free; bookings essential. Suitable for ages 5–12.
Saturday, July 4 — Music and Movement
10.30 am — 12.30 pm, Maryborough Toy Library: Shake, wiggle and move through a morning of playful activity. No bookings required — free entry for children accompanied by a carer.
Tuesday, July 7 — Monster Craft
9.30 — 11.30 am, Maryborough & Dunolly Libraries: A monster‑themed craft session for ages 3–10. Free; no bookings required.
Tuesday, July 7 — My Magical Imagination
9.30 – 11 am, Maryborough Toy Library: Dress‑ups welcome as kids dive into imaginative play with make‑believe toys. No bookings required — free entry for children accompanied by a carer.
Tuesday, July 7 — So, You Think You Can Game!
5 — 7 pm, Maryborough Toy Library: A brand‑new evening session for ages 10+, featuring board games, pizza and snacks. No bookings required - free entry for children accompanied by a carer.
Wednesday, July 8 — GO WILD! Art Workshop
10.30 — 11.30 am, Central Goldfields Art Gallery: A mixed‑media workshop inspired by wild weather, led by arts educator Jennifer Latch. Ages 6–12. Cost: $5. Bookings required (5461-6600 or cgsc.art@cgoldshire.vic.gov.au).
Saturday, July 11 — Christmas in July
10.30 am — 12.30 pm, Maryborough Toy Library: Festive crafts, games and winter cheer. No bookings required — free entry for children accompanied by a carer.
Daily Activities
Explore the Station, Discover Gold!
10 am — 4 pm daily, Visitor Centre — Maryborough Railway Station: Families can enjoy the Welcome Stranger animation, interactive gold‑themed activities and a free tote bag of take‑home fun.
StoryWalk – Always Open
Phillips Gardens, Maryborough: Follow the pages of Sunday Skating by Andrea Rowe and Hannah Somerville as you stroll through the Gardens.
Sports Equipment Library
Maryborough Library, 91 Nolan Street: Borrow scooters, skateboards and safety gear for free with a library card.
Full program details and registration links are available at: www.centralgoldfields.vic.gov.au/winterfun2026