Hey, hey it’s play day!
Buzzy Bees blow balloons with the babies
To play or not to play?
That is not the question – it’s a no brainer, particularly where kids are involved.
The Andrew McLaughlin Centre in Port Hedland teemed with tots, parents, grandparents and carers last week as Cooke Point Playgroup held its highly successful annual event, “Hedland’s Biggest Play Day”.
The extravaganza included many fun, free activities, such as face painting, indoor bouncy castles, craft activities and morning tea.
In addition, Captain Cleanup was on hand to serenade everyone on his guitar and the Buzzy Bees stilt walked and blew balloons among the swarming, ahem, crowds.
Drovers’ Rodeo’s Frank Edwards offered pony rides for the children with his horse Rhythm and gorgeous miniature horse Little Horse.
“Pony rides are as popular as ever in Port Hedland,” Mr Edwards said of his service, which is the only one within a 600 kilometre radius of Port Hedland.
Cooke Point Playgroup’s Kimberley Smith said all the hard work planning the event was worth the effort, particularly given even more people came this year than last.
She believes that a play day such as this is the perfect way to introduce new families to town.
“When you come up here, you’re isolated and everyone needs a friend in Port Hedland.
“Playgroup is a way to find your friends with same age children and going through the same struggles as you are.”
New to Port Hedland from Manchester in the United Kingdom, Rebecca McLean came along with daughter Millie and had a lovely time.
“It’s a great morning,” Mrs McLean said.
“Something like this gets her out and she loves playing.”
The occasion celebrated National Playgroup Week and everything available was donated in cash, products or time.
Mrs Smith wished to thank Orica, SCOGMA, Woolworths, McDonald’s, BHP Billiton, Parenting WA, Mammoet and Westrac.
She also thanked playgroup organiser George Jupp for being a fantastic asset to the day, not to mention the whole committee and everyone behind the scenes.
Teagan Bull loved painting
Everyone loves puppy dogs!
Millie, Isla and Caleb got into the spirit of things at the play day
Zaylin Aitchison will soon be a puppy dog! With Kirrie Dawson
