Frequently asked questions.

What should we bring/wear?

Food and drinking water. Appropriate clothing, including closed in shoes and long pants (recommended). A spare set of clothes incase we get muddy. Appropriate protection from the weather (sun or rain) and insect repellent.

What age group is bush play group for?

Bush playgroup is aimed towards 1 to 5 year olds. Younger siblings are welcome to join a participating sibling for free.

Where is The Bush Circle located?

The Bush Circle is located on a private property in Tuchekoi, in the Mary Valley. See the contact page for the exact location. Approximately 40 minutes drive from Noosa and 30 minutes drive from Gympie.

When is bush playgroup held?

It is held on Wednesday morning, between 9:30am and 11:00am during the school term. School holiday programs are often offered, check the bookings page for current availability.

What is access like?

Access to the property is via a council managed dirt road suitable for 2WD. Parking is located at the entrance to the property on a grassy flat. 

Is much walking involved?

The walk from the car park to the main playgroup area is approximately 200 meters over uneven sloping ground. Some fitness is recommended. 

Is it pram friendly?

This depends how adventurous you are and what kind of pram you own. I would take our large wheeled pram around the property. Keep in mind the walk to the bush playgroup area is over uneven sloping ground and a few steps are involved. Baby wearing could be a better option if it is available. 

Is there a toilet on site?

Yes, there is a bush composting toilet available. Bush wees are also welcome!

How much does it cost?

Term bookings are discounted and may vary depending on the number of weeks in the term. There are discount codes available for families with multiple children attending, see the booking page or get in contact for more information. The fees paid for a ticket help to cover the runnings costs of playgroup. Ten percent of the ticket price also goes towards conservation projects at Ironstone Creek Sanctuary.

Why do you mainly offer Term block bookings?

This allows families to make nature play a part of their weekly routine, a greater sense of community is felt when relationships are built over a number of weeks and children can gain confidence and mastery revisiting the same tasks or activities every week.

Are there snakes?

Being the bush in Australia, the presence of snakes is always a risk. We carry out risk management to reduce the risk, such as a safety sweep prior to each session, teaching of snake safety to children (and adults) and we recommend appropriate closed footwear and long pants.

Are there any other creatures that could harm us?

Yes, there are other creatures such as ants, wasps, bees, scorpions, mosquitoes and ticks. These are always a risk when entering the Australian bush of encountering these insects but by being respectful and keeping clear once identified, the risk of stings and bites can be reduced. Thorough checking of yourself and child for ticks is recommended during and after each session.

Is it really sunny?

Most of the site is located under the shade of surrounding trees which provide a cool environment.

Do you offer any other programs?

Not yet, however these may become available in the future if there is demand. Let us know what you're interested in.

What qualifications does the nature guide have?

Jessica is a qualified and experienced Primary Teacher (GDipEd) and has recently undertaken a certificate in Steiner Education at USC. She has worked extensively in the natural environment as an aquatic ecologist (BSc(Hons)). She is also first aid trained.

All the sessions are booked, do you have a waitlist?

Yes, please get in touch via email or the contact page if you would like to join a waitlist for a particular session/term. 

If we are sick can we reschedule?

Yes, if you cannot make a session we will happily offer a make up session. If you are able to give 48 hours notice we can give a refund. 

Do you have insurance?

Yes, we are affiliated with Play Matters and are covered for the activities provided under their $20,000,000 public liability insurance. 

If you have any questions about bush playgroup please get in contact via email or the contact page.