Relative's get together 2019 Melbourne

Hi OZbs,

Its that time of the year again where we think about familys getting together. I have been discussing with my Cousin trying to catch up in the new year say Feb early March with our families. We all have kids mostly of young to teens, one of mine a young adulLT.

We all use to gather at my grandparents place at Xmas, but that has long stopped since they passes away. We have lost touch with one another in our busy lives.

Looking for ideas. Casual location. Was thinking a park in city as central like Botanical. Not sure if there are BBqs there. Also had the idea of the Zoo, but expensive for all if us to getbin, but we could eat and the just roam the zoo together. Haven't been for ages.

Might inspire others to do the same.

Also assume the best way to set date is to put some dates out there via email. Some are overseas and 1 has said they will be in Melbourne next March hence that date. Might be a twice a year thing as probably not everyone can make it.

Thanking you all in advance. Free places would be best.

Comments

  • +1

    There’s definitely bbqs along Birrarung Marr.

  • Ive done New Years at Albert Park Lake. There is BBQ and kis play grou3, but F1 on then,so access probably unlikely

  • Beach was an idea. Also weather an issue for all ideas if it rains

  • "Was thinking a park in the city…."

    Which city?

    • Melbourne

      • +1

        No worries, as long as it's daylight hours you should be OK. :)

  • Maybe shelter options. Melbourne 4 seasons in 1 day

    • Why would anyone downvote this comment made by OP?
      Consideration of the weather should be integral to the decision, and is perfectly logical.

  • +1

    We did a large gathering in the Botanical gardens - was very nice. There are no BBQs. If the weather is good parking can be a problem and even if you drop people at the gate it can be a bit of a walk with hills (some of the oldies struggled).
    Along the river on Alexandra Parade could also be an option.
    There are plenty of nice suburban parks with BBQ areas and playgrounds etc. Some you can even book. (I've been to plenty of kids parties)

    • Can you remember some of the good parks. Yeah by the river would be good. Suppose safety issue gor younger kids. Didn't think about parking and access.My partner has bad knees so walking far an issue for her. I think the other relatives are ok.

  • Dam about no bbq at Botanical, but suppose we could do sandwiches or the like. No cleaning up or having to bring bbq stuff.

  • Maybe the garden next to Melbourne Museum. Not that we would go into that afterwards. Recall a playground there although basic I think.

  • Any park with a BBQ or two would do fine I think.

    https://www.timeout.com/melbourne/things-to-do/the-best-publ…

  • If you're trying to keep costs down an Entertainment book is often good for groups and will give you some ideas:

    https://www.entertainmentbook.com.au/

    They are valid from June 1 each year so the current one is valid until the end of May 2019. This may help if there are multiple gatherings during that time too

  • +2

    We went through a similar process recently.

    Have a look at Melbourne City's excellent online interactive map:
    http://maps.melbourne.vic.gov.au/?_ga=2.28320444.1408280029.…
    On the left-hand side menu, you can select 'Parks and Activities' and filter, or just zoom in. Some parks / areas can be pre-booked, which can be handy if you have a large group and want some certainty that your 'space' will be available on the day (but at a cost). If you zoom down to specific parks / spaces, the site details the facilities that are there.
    Elsewhere on the Melb City's website you will find helpful info to consider (e.g. catering, water, bathrooms, etc.)

    The riverfront on the southern side (Alexandra Park) has a lot of BBQs, and is across the street from the Botanical Gardens if you want to wander later.
    Also consider a quieter area of the city; Docklands Park has a playground, BBQs and is easy to access.

  • +2

    I would look for something with decent cover, barbeques and access by public transport. I would also get an advance party to stake out a spot before the main group arrives.

    • Yup - OP, especially in busier parks closer to the CBD, I'd have someone get there basically first thing in the morning (and they can start setting up too) otherwise you might rock up and find all the BBQs already taken.

  • Thanks all so far for posts. Will definately check out places prior to event as plenty of time. Getting a busy BBq spot maybe hard, but if as you say get in early might be the go. You can always share.

Login or Join to leave a comment