Riverland children encouraged to get active these school holidays

Riverland children are being encouraged to get off their screens, get active and try something new, with a free Growing for Gold come-and-try session coming to the Alan Coulter Recreation Centre in Renmark these school holidays.

The Riverland event will be held on Tuesday 6 October 2026 and will give children aged 3 to 16 the opportunity to try new sporting and recreational activities in a fun and welcoming environment – at no cost to families.

The initiative is part of the Malinauskas Government’s $75 million commitment to help get kids off screens and into healthier, more active activities.

The Riverland session is supported by the Riverland Connected and Active Communities Officer, helping connect local children and families with opportunities to participate in sport and physical activity in their community.

Renmark Paringa Council Mayor Peter Hunter said the event was a great opportunity for local families during the school holidays.

“The school holidays are a great time for young people to get out, get active and try something new,” he said.

“Having a free activity available locally at the Alan Coulter Recreation Centre is a fantastic opportunity for families. It provides something positive and active to do during the holidays without adding another cost for parents and carers.

“We encourage families to take advantage of the day, get them away from their screens and have a go at something new.”

Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Rhiannon Pearce said the Growing for Gold program aims to provide fun and engaging alternatives to screen time, while encouraging children to develop healthy habits and connect with sport and their local community.

“This is about providing fun and engaging alternatives to screen time, ones that support healthier outcomes for young people and connect them to local sporting clubs which can last for years to come,” Minister Pearce said.

“Research consistently shows that regular physical activity supports children’s physical health, mental wellbeing, social development and learning outcomes.

“Getting kids active is more than exercise. It’s about helping them build friendships, develop confidence, improve their wellbeing.”

Growing for Gold – Riverland

When: Tuesday 6 October 2026
Where: Alan Coulter Recreation Centre, Renmark
Who: Children aged 3–16
Cost: Free

The Riverland pilot is being coordinated through the Riverland Connected and Active Communities program, with support from the Office for Recreation, Sport and Racing, Renmark Paringa Council, Belgravia Leisure and participating local sporting clubs and volunteers.

Seven free sessions will be available throughout the day:

• 9:30am–11:00am: Aussie Hoops Basketball, ages 4–7, Courts 1 and 2
• 11:30am–12:30pm: Basketball – Girls, ages 8–11, Court 1
• 12:00pm–1:30pm: Pickleball, ages 6–12, Court 2
• 1:00pm–2:00pm: Basketball – Boys, ages 8–11, Court 1
• 2:00pm–4:00pm: Lawn Bowls, ages 3–16, Court 2
• 2:30pm–3:30pm: Basketball – Girls, ages 12–16, Court 1
• 4:00pm–5:00pm: Basketball – Boys, ages 12–16, Court 1

Bookings are now open and are required for all sessions. Families can view the full schedule and register through the:

Growing for Gold booking platform

For assistance with bookings, families can contact the Alan Coulter Recreation Centre on 8586 6072 or email alancoulterrc@belgravialeisure.com.au