As the Queensland Government have relaxed restrictions on outings and gatherings, we are once again allowed to enjoying picnics out in nature (with some conditions in place).
We have so many amazing places to explore around Queensland and even if it’s only 50km from your home, that really opens up a lot of beautiful places you can picnic at going forward.
Here are some tips for keeping your family picnics ‘eco-friendly’ this weekend….
What to take:
- Take your reusables. If you don’t have a picnic set, just take your regular cutlery and whatever flatware and containers you have that are practical and can come home with you. If you have children avoid breakables like glass and go for stainless steel and bamboo. Check out some ‘eco-essentials’ HERE
- You can use any blanket or throw you already have as a picnic blanket but if you’re looking for something new check out the beautiful range from ‘Weaver Green’ in Noosaville. These throws and rugs are as soft as wool but are made from 100% recycled plastic bottles!
- Pack finger food so you don’t need as much cutlery and can cut down on the number of plates and utensils you need.
- Prepare food at home to minimise waste and bring a spare container for scraps that can be correctly composted once you’re home. If you’re in need of a compact in-home composting system check out ‘Bokashi Ninja’.
- Ditch the plastic wrap. To save room and keep food fresh, wrap your food in eco-friendly beeswax wraps like these locally made wraps from ‘Misty Lane & Co’ in Maleny.
- Eat green. Avoid packaged foods that create more waste and try to fill your picnic basket with organic, locally sourced, unprocessed plant-based food.
- When it comes to skin protection choose natural reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellents that are free from harsh chemicals.
- Learn from nature. As park facilities and playgrounds remain closed, it’s a good idea to have some games in mind for the kids to keep them entertained while social distancing from other families.
Here are some of our favourites:
- Counting butterflies, they are in the thousands here on the Sunshine Coast!
- Spotting birds and insects. See if you can identify the different types.
- A-Z bush walks. Alphabet walks are a great way for kids to learn. Keep your eyes peeled as you go through the alphabet or everyone can choose a different letter. Name the plants, colours of the flowers, bugs, animals and natural shapes.
- Collecting leaves and seedpods for crafts to do at home.
- Have a game of ‘tree tag’. Tree tag is a great way to burn off a little extra energy before the car ride home. Choose an area with several trees spread out in a open space and take turns running the track. The older kids will probably like their turns timed but the younger ones will just love the game, and likely turn it into a game of chase.
- Take only photographs, leave only footprints. Make sure you dispose of any rubbish you have correctly in the appropriate bins or bring it home so you can ensure it will be recycled correctly. If you see some litter on the ground, even if it’s not yours, do the right thing and pick it up.
Happy picnicking!
Trish x