Clare and Gilbert Valleys Family

From miniature-train outings and library sessions to school-holiday care and specialist support, families in Clare and the surrounding valleys have practical ways to play, learn and seek help. Options include activities for babies through to school-aged children, alongside therapy for children, parents and carers.

🚂 Play, stories and shared activities

Clare Valley Model Engineers

Enjoy a public miniature-train ride day at Melrose Park, where there is also a canteen and access to nearby picnic, lake, BMX and playground areas. Rides cost $2 per person, while children aged three and under ride free with an adult. Enclosed footwear is compulsory, and sessions may be cancelled during high heat. Child birthday-party bookings are also available.

Clare Library

Young children can build an early connection with books, songs and creative play. Baby Bounce and Rhyme welcomes children aged 0–2 with their families, while Toddler Tales combines stories and craft for ages 2–5 during school terms. Family facilities include an accessible toilet with a change table, and the library is breastfeeding friendly. School-holiday activities are also offered.

📅 Care during school terms and holidays

Clare Primary School OSHC

Before-school, after-school and vacation care is provided on the Clare Primary School site. The service is run by the school’s Governing Council and is used by schools across the region. Vacation care operates during each school-holiday period, apart from a short Christmas and New Year closure, with a mix of onsite activities and excursions. Contact the OSHC service directly about enrolment and availability.

🌱 Development and emotional wellbeing

Play Partners Clare Valley

Children and adults with disability can access physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology, including early intervention for children. Appointments are offered at the Clare clinic, and outreach to homes, schools, kindergartens or day options may be facilitated across surrounding areas. Depending on individual circumstances, NDIS-funded, private and Medicare-subsidised sessions may be available.

Country & Outback Health – Child Psych Therapy

Child and family-focused psychological therapy is available in Clare, with face-to-face appointments and telehealth for eligible families. Support covers emotional, behavioural and social concerns, as well as anxiety, grief, trauma and significant life changes, and can include practical help for parents and carers. A Mental Health Treatment Plan or referral from a paediatrician or child psychiatrist is required. Current eligible NDIS participants may self-refer, and Improved Daily Living funding may be accepted.

✅ Check before you go

• Confirm current session dates, holiday timetables and places before making plans.
• Ask whether bookings, enrolment forms, referrals or funding approvals are required.
• Check age limits, adult supervision requirements and accessibility for your family.
• Confirm current fees and any excursion or program costs directly with the provider.
• For outdoor activities, review weather-related changes and clothing requirements.

📌 Do you run a family-focused business, service, activity or community group in Clare and Gilbert Valleys, or regularly serve local families? You are warmly invited to add a listing or submit updated details so families can find accurate, useful information.

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