Outdoor programs for over 55’s
Indoor Comfort, Outdoor Fun
What is Great Getaways Queensland
Active, Fun Overnight Stays and Outdoor Activity Days
Great Getaways Queensland is about active, fun overnight stays and outdoor activity days for people over 55 years of age. Participants can try new activities and socialise with like-minded people in various locations across Queensland – meet new people, make new friends.
A Great Getaways adventure is extremely well prepared to ensure that participants have a safe and enjoyable time during their stay.
Activities
Activities will vary depending on what is available at each site, and may include rock climbing, yoga, canoeing, bushwalking, high ropes courses and mountain biking. Activities will be facilitated by trained outdoor professionals to ensure that everyone can take part, regardless of fitness levels or previous experience. Participation in all activities is optional (we are firm believers of ‘Challenge by Choice’) however you will be encouraged to participate where possible.
Accommodation
Accommodation at Great Getaways is in shared rooms. You may wish to bring your own bedding (sleeping bag/doona and pillow). Bedrooms and bathrooms are under one roof. Participants share rooms with people of the same gender unless requested to stay as a couple or with friends. Accommodation options and numbers per room vary dependent on site.
Transport
The Great Getaway price does not include transport. If you do not drive, we may be able to assist with arrangements for you. Some options may include public transport, transfers or car pools with other participants (extra fees may apply).
Outcomes
- Meet new people
- Make new friends
- See new places
- Try new things
- Get active
- Have fun!
I pushed my personal boundaries and was very happy with the result. I rediscovered my self confidence and now realise I am not an old fossil, I can still do stuff! It was fun, physical, challenging, social – quite simply I happily participated in things I don’t normally do.
It was a terrific weekend – I made memories
Make a booking!
Upcoming Events
- Friday September 2, Kayaking/Canoeing Activity Day, Brisbane region
- Sunday October 23, Kayaking/Canoeing Activity Day, Brisbane region
- Friday November 4, Kayaking/Canoeing Activity Day, Brisbane region
- November 18-20, Weekend Adventure, Queensland Recreation Centre, Currimundi*
- March 10-12, 2023, Weekend Adventure, Seaforth Pines near Mackay**
* Bookings Open Soon
Kayaking / Canoeing Activity Day
When: Friday, September 2, 2022
Time: 09:00 – 13:00
Where: Boondall Wetlands
Photo: Neil Ennis
Join us for an easy morning paddle as we explore the waterways of Nundah Creek and the Boondall Wetlands. Meandering along narrow waterways through mangroves and melaleuca forest you will see lots of the local birdlife, and even an occasional fish jumping out of the water.
Previous experience is not necessary as the morning will include all the lessons you need to get underway.
Location
VMR Shorncliffe
95 All Pass Parade, Shorncliffe
Find on Google Maps
Cost: 125.00 inc GST per person (includes all gear, expert instruction, knowledgeable guides and morning tea).
Book early to avoid disappointment as numbers are limited !!😉
What we provide:
- Expert instruction
- Canoes, kayaks, paddles, lifejackets
- Morning tea/coffee with a treat (maybe homemade date loaf or banana muffins)
- Fruit
- Sanitiser
What you need to bring:
- Clothes that offer good sun protection that may get splashed.
- Enclosed shoes – aqua neoprene shoes are best.
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
To BOOK
- Complete the Registration Form (or call 0480 289 572 to sign up over the phone)
- Complete a Medical Declaration Form (to be completed by all participants)
Kayaking / Canoeing Activity Day
When: Sunday October 23, 2022
Time: 09:00 – 13:00
Where: Boondall Wetlands
Photo: Neil Ennis
Join us for an easy morning paddle as we explore the waterways of Nundah Creek and the Boondall Wetlands. Meandering along narrow waterways through mangroves and melaleuca forest you will see lots of the local birdlife, and even an occasional fish jumping out of the water.
Previous experience is not necessary as the morning will include all the lessons you need to get underway.
Location
VMR Shorncliffe
95 All Pass Parade, Shorncliffe
Find on Google Maps
Cost: 125.00 inc GST per person (includes all gear, expert instruction, knowledgeable guides and morning tea).
Book early to avoid disappointment as numbers are limited !!😉
What we provide:
- Expert instruction
- Canoes, kayaks, paddles, lifejackets
- Morning tea/coffee with a treat (maybe homemade date loaf or banana muffins)
- Fruit
- Sanitiser
What you need to bring:
- Clothes that offer good sun protection that may get splashed.
- Enclosed shoes – aqua neoprene shoes are best.
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
To BOOK
- Complete the Registration Form (or call 0480 289 572 to sign up over the phone)
- Complete a Medical Declaration Form (to be completed by all participants)
Kayaking / Canoeing Activity Day
When: Friday, November 4, 2022
Time: 09:00 – 13:00
Where: Boondall Wetlands
Photo: Neil Ennis
Join us for an easy morning paddle as we explore the waterways of Nundah Creek and the Boondall Wetlands. Meandering along narrow waterways through mangroves and melaleuca forest you will see lots of the local birdlife, and even an occasional fish jumping out of the water.
Previous experience is not necessary as the morning will include all the lessons you need to get underway.
Location
VMR Shorncliffe
95 All Pass Parade, Shorncliffe
Find on Google Maps
Cost: 125.00 inc GST per person (includes all gear, expert instruction, knowledgeable guides and morning tea).
Book early to avoid disappointment as numbers are limited !!😉
What we provide:
- Expert instruction
- Canoes, kayaks, paddles, lifejackets
- Morning tea/coffee with a treat (maybe homemade date loaf or banana muffins)
- Fruit
- Sanitiser
What you need to bring:
- Clothes that offer good sun protection that may get splashed.
- Enclosed shoes – aqua neoprene shoes are best.
- Hat
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
To BOOK
- Complete the Registration Form (or call 0480 289 572 to sign up over the phone)
- Complete a Medical Declaration Form (to be completed by all participants)
Great Getaways Weekend Adventure
Queensland Recreation Centre
80 Currimundi Road, Currimundi Qld 4551
Find on Google Maps
Date: November 18-20
Time: 1 pm Friday – 2 pm Sunday
Cost: $TBC
Join us for a weekend of fun and exciting outdoor activities – paddle a canoe on beautiful Currimundi Lake, explore the local bushland, test your balance on the low ropes course, learn to bodyboard or challenge yourself on the Giant Swing.
Bookings opening soon!
Look what’s included:
- Lazy nights, active days and healthy meals
- 2 nights accommodation
- Fun outdoor activities
- Any specialised equipment required,
- Lots of laughs
What’s not included:
- Transport to and from the camp
- Lunch on first day
Great Getaways Weekend Adventure
Seaforth Pines
45 mins north of Mackay
Find on Google Maps
Date: March 10-12, 2023
Time: 1 pm Friday – 2 pm Sunday
Cost: $TBC
Join us for a fun weekend of outdoor activities in the beautiful seaside town of Seaforth – explore local bushland, catch a view from a rocky summit, learn to abseil, test your balance on the low ropes course, and enjoy a quiet night round the campfire.
Bookings opening soon!
Look what’s included:
- Lazy nights, active days and healthy meals
- 2 nights accommodation
- Fun outdoor activities
- Any specialised equipment required,
- Lots of laughs
What’s not included:
- Transport to and from the camp
- Lunch on first day
We are currently looking into more venues in both South East Queensland and further north for late 2022 and 2023
Activity days are coming – working on kayaking and bushwalking opportunities in Brisbane, with more in the pipeline in other locations.
Watch this space for more information.
Forms & Lists
Every Great Getaways participant needs to complete a Medical Declaration Form.
The information on the form will only be shared with activity staff at the venue so they are well prepared and can react appropriately in the event of an accident or emergency.
Please note that at each Great Getaways venue has risk management policies and practices in place, staff are trained in first aid and first aid supplies inc defibrillators are available.
Fill out the form HERE
Survey Questionnaire – on your way!
As we committed to the ongoing development of the Great Getaways Queensland program, we are keen to hear from all participants about their experience – how you heard about Great Getaways, the activities, what you are expecting and what concerns you.
While this is completely optional, we do ask that you complete this short survey. Thank you
Fill out the survey HERE
Please do not attend a Great Getaways Queensland program if you are unwell, have COVID-19 symptoms, have been in a COVID-19 hotspot or have been in close contact with a known active case of COVID-19.
While on a Great Getaways Queensland program please follow the usual precautions to protect yourself and others from the spread of COVID-19:
- Practice good hygiene
- Maintain physical distance (except when doing activities)
- Wear a face mask, when asked or required
Please note that while Great Getaways Queensland encourages all participants to be fully vaccinated, it is not mandatory to take part in an adventure weekend or activity day. (ref. Vaccination)
In the event of a COVID-19 outbreak and tougher restrictions that lead to the cancellation or postponement, Outdoors Queensland guarantees to fully refund registration fees or, at the discretion of the participant, transfer a registration to a future Great Getaways event.
Activity Day Gear List
What you need to bring on your Great Getaway Activity Day
Note:
- It is advisable not to bring any valuable items that may get damaged or go missing.
- It is recommended people with special dietary requirements bring additional snacks with them.
- DOWNLOAD the Gear List – so you can check the items off!
Clothing
The usual things you’d need for a day outdoors considering:
- A change at the end of the day – warm, dry
- Comfortable clothes you can be active in – they might get wet and dirty too!
For being outdoors
- Sun hat (full brim)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Raincoat / parka
- Closed-in shoes (eg. joggers)
- Extra pair of shoes for water activities – old joggers or water shoes are ideal, something that covers heel and toes – NO THONGS OR SANDALS)
- Swimmers and swimming towel
- Plastic bag for wet and dirty clothes
Miscellaneous
- Water bottle
- Medication
Optional
- Day pack
- Walking poles
- Camera
Weekend Gear List
What you need to bring on your Great Getaway weekend adventure.
Note:
- It is advisable not to bring any valuable items that may get damaged or go missing.
- It is recommended people with special dietary requirements bring additional snacks with them to camp as a back-up.
- DOWNLOAD the Gear List – so you can check the items off!
Clothing
The usual things you’d need for a weekend away considering:
- A change for the evenings – warm, dry
- Comfortable clothes you can be active in – they might get wet and dirty too!
- The weather and the time of year!
For being outdoors
- Sun hat (full brim)
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Raincoat / parka
- Closed-in shoes (eg. joggers)
- Extra pair of shoes for water activities – old joggers or water shoes are ideal, something that covers heel and toes – NO THONGS OR SANDALS)
- Swimmers and swimming towel
- Plastic bag for wet and dirty clothes
Miscellaneous
- Torch / spare batteries
- Water bottle
- Towel and toiletries
- Medication
Optional
- Bedding (we supply the basics tho’ you may want …)
- Your own pillow / pillowcase
- Doona, blankets (or sleeping bag) – recommended in the cooler months.
- Mattress topper (single bed) – for extra comfort
- Ear plugs
- Camp chair
- Day pack
- Walking poles
- Camera
- Book
- Musical instrument
- A bottle of wine for the campfire (depending on site/conditions)
- Wine glass or tumbler (not glass or disposable please)
- Snacks
- A good story!
A Great Getaways Queensland program will vary from location to location and depend on things like the weather, the time of year, and the activities available at a given location The basic structure will be relatively consistent from weekend to weekend.
Update: Arrival 1.00pm for a 2.00pm start
Coming on a Great Getaways Queensland adventure and want to be a little fitter?
This might be useful 
Learn More
Want to be the first to hear about future Great Getaways? Click Here to add your contact details to our Mailing List.
For more information or simplify to have a chat contact, Great Getaways on 0480 289 572, email greatgetaways@outdoorsqueensland.com.au or fill out the Questions or Comments Form below.
Great Getaways Queensland is originally an initiative by the Australian Camps Association based in Victoria, where it has been running very successfully for several years.
Great Getaways Queensland is funded by the Queensland Government’s #ActiveKIT program, designed to support the active recreation and fitness sector as well as start-ups or small to medium businesses to trial and implement new and innovative products or services.
