Spring Fever

Dream it, live it and love it this spring!

Yes it’s officially Mother Nature’s friskiest time of the year and it’s not just the animal kingdom that’s affected. The commonly known condition ‘Spring Fever’ is described as an increase in energy, vitality, and sexual appetite (oxford dictionary). For me it's somewhere between dreamy and playful or perhaps confused is a better word...

But seriously, to get a boost of those feel good hormones, just shed the winter layers, don the hat and head for the outdoors. Whether you’re a local or a visitor; born to be wild or have a preference for relaxing pleasures, we have it all on our doorstep in the Sutherland Shire. Read on for the highlights of the season and inspiring ideas to explore and experience an adventurous life this spring.

Between beaches, bays, the river and the bush, there’s plenty of options for an outdoor adventure, but its two little words that make springtime my favourite time of the year - Festival season! Whether you’re a music and art lover, food aficionado or shopaholic, spring brings all of the best festivals and events. So grab your friends and family and start planning all that cool stuff you’ve been dreaming about. Few of us have the time to be spontaneous, so plan it, book it in and make it happen!

Plan ahead for events and festivals

Events usually go hand in hand with crowds, so leaving the car at home and using public transport is the best plan of action; you’ll find the day will be hassle free and a lot more fun for all. And I hate to mention it but spring really is the best time to start shopping for Christmas. You’ll find unique gift ideas at most Festival events or better still, win brownie points with that special someone and purchase a gift voucher for a really cool experience. See ‘Do It Like A Pro’ for ideas.
Here are some highlights to look forward to; 

Gymea Village Fair
Sunday 29 October
From food stalls to fashion, wine to flowers, the stalls line the length of Gymea Bay Road from the Kingsway to President Avenue. 

Women's Rugby League World Cup
16 November
The world’s best female rugby league players will contest the first-ever Women’s Rugby League World Cup, to be played concurrently with the men’s tournament at Cronulla Leagues Club.

Cook Community Classic at Cronulla Park 
Sunday 19 November
This charity event is now in its tenth year. The Classic is a great family day out and a chance to celebrate and support local organisations that make our Shire community strong.

For more information and to see more upcoming events click here 

DO IT LIKE A PRO (don’t just dream it)

Spring is the best time to unleash the adventurer within. Without the hot temperatures of summer, take a lesson or do a tour – something you’ve been promising yourself for ages. Sound familiar? Talented locals have turned their passions into awesome experiences and if you’re looking for inspiration I’ll make it easy for you. Don’t just dream it - make it happen and create some special memories!
Here are some ideas plus links:

Photography
Get the best out of your smart phone ad improve your photography skills with Michael Sutton Photography.

Cronulla Surfing Academy
The most fun and personal surf school

The Bodyboard Academy
Learn how to bodyboard like a Pro with World Champion Lilly Pollard

Bundeena Kayaks
Hire, lessons and tours

Cronulla Standup Paddleboard School
Hire and lessons

Cronulla Ferries
Ferries, scenic river cruises, dining and live music cruises on the Hacking River - one of Sydney’s most unspoilt waterways

Walk the Royal National Park
The second oldest National Park IN THE WORLD, with over 100km of walking tracks for all levels of fitness.
For visitor information, interactive maps, cycling tracks and trails

Golf
To find a golf pro, practice and play at a local courses click here

With longer days and warmer nights I hope I’ve inspired you to plan an adventure this spring. It doesn’t even have to cost a cent . . . plan a picnic, some outdoor games and indulge in long leisurely alfresco dining. Which reminds me, must be time for a glass or two and one of those glorious flamingo pink sunsets.

Enjoy the good life this spring!

Mark Twain sums up ‘Spring Fever’ perfectly:

“It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want—oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!”

Outdoor Adventures come with a Warning:
Always check weather conditions and take extra care in non-patrolled areas; do not swim alone or in bad weather.

You’ll find reports on traffic, weather and surf conditions on www.2ssr.com.au Sutherland Shire’s Community Radio Station.