Free school holiday fun: we’re going on a scavenger hunt!

Barwon Water is launching a free fun activity for families, just in time for the school holidays.

Barwon Water General Manager Customers, Community and Strategy Laura Kendall said the water-themed scavenger hunt around Geelong’s cultural precinct will lead children and parents to new discoveries and insights.

“The activity shows the continuing connection of Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to their Country and its lands, sky and water, shares some of Geelong’s water story, and invites families to find water-inspired artworks (at Geelong Gallery) and books (at Geelong Library & Heritage Centre).”

Geelong Regional Libraries CEO Vanessa Schernickau said she was delighted the library could support the scavenger hunt.

“Our team looks forward to assisting families in their scavenger hunt and hope it will provide an opportunity for families to enjoy the things Geelong Library & Hertiage Centre has to offer over the school holidays.”

Geelong Gallery Director and CEO Jason Smith also welcomed the opportunity for the Gallery to be part of the hunt.

“Geelong Gallery is pleased to partner with Barwon Water again to host a water-themed scavenger hunt for children and families.

“The Gallery has been fortunate to collaborate recently with Barwon Water on a series of events and workshops exploring the power of art to connect people with the importance of Caring for Country, during the Gallery’s recent exhibition Kungka Kuṉpu (Strong Women), an Art Gallery of South Australia touring exhibition.”

Johnstone Park also features in the hunt.

Instructions for the scavenger hunt are available on Barwon Water’s website and printed copies can be picked up from the front counter at Barwon Water’s Geelong office at 55-67 Ryrie Street during business hours.

The scavenger hunt is suitable for children aged 7 and over, with some help and supervision from a caregiver. Families are encouraged to undertake the hunt during business hours to enable them to find answers located inside Barwon Water’s Geelong Office, the Geelong Gallery and the Geelong Library & Heritage Centre.

Ms Kendall said the launch of the scavenger hunt was timed to coincide with World Water Day, an annual United Nations observance day held on 22 March that highlights the importance of fresh water, and the need for sustainable water management practices worldwide.

“This global event, designated by the United Nations, aims to raise awareness about water-related issues and inspire action to ensure access to clean water for all.

“It serves as an opportunity to celebrate the vital role that water plays in our lives, ecosystems, and economies, while also highlighting the challenges we face in safeguarding this precious resource for future generations.”

For more on how this relates to Barwon Water’s work, see https://www.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/community-and-education/water-matters.


Pictured: one of the scavenger hunt clues can be found at the Geelong Arts Centre stage door