Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer ? The Hills Shire Council ’ s FREE School Holiday Program offers an incredible lineup of fun-filled activities for children and teens of all ages .

From sports and technology workshops to an outdoor cinema under the stars , there ’ s something for everyone to enjoy — and best of all , it ’ s FREE .

“ This program offers young people the chance to stay active , make friends , and try new activities - all without the added financial burden ,” Mayor of The Hills Shire , Dr Michelle Byrne said .

“ The Play Well AFL Program also includes dedicated sessions for children and young people living with a disability to try the sport while supported by professional coaches from AFL NSW .

“ We ’ re proud to make the school holidays more enjoyable and accessible for Hills families .”

Council ’ s program will feature a total of six free events throughout January , including : SOCCER FUN DAY WHEN : Wednesday , 8 January 2025 TIME : 10am - 12pm for participants aged 5 - 11 years 1pm - 3pm for participants aged 12 -

16 years WHERE : Balmoral Road Reserve ,

Kellyville

Children and young people of all skill levels are welcome to refine their skills , learn tips and tricks from qualified coaches and meet new friends . TECHNOLOGY WORKSHOPS WHEN : Tuesday 14 January 2025 TIME : 9am - 12pm for Junior Coding

( 6 - 9 years ) 1pm - 4pm for Minecraft Coding ( 9 - 14 years ) WHERE : Skills Samurai Hub , Rouse Hill

Town Centre

These workshops will give participants a chance to try out coding and gaming skills . CRICKET FUN DAY WHEN : Thursday , 16 January 2025 TIME : 10am - 12pm for participants aged 5 - 11 years 1pm - 3pm for participants aged 12 -

16 years WHERE : Balmoral Road Reserve ,

Kellyville

Children and young people of all skill levels are welcome to learn cricket drills , make new friends and take part in a range of activities . ART WORKSHOP WHEN : Friday , 17 January 2025 TIME : 10am - 12pm for participants aged 11 - 14 years WHERE : Castle Hill Library This relaxing art workshop will provide

children and young people with a safe space to express themselves by experimenting with a variety of art mediums . OUTDOOR CINEMA :

SHREK WHEN : Friday , 17 January

2025

TIME : Gates open at 6pm . The moving screening will begin at 7pm . WHERE : Bella Vista Farm Bring the whole family and your picnic rugs to a free screening of Shrek at Bella Vista Farm . There will be free popcorn for the first 200 people through the gates . Coffee and dessert will also be available for purchase . Registrations are required .

Attendees are encouraged to catch the Metro to Bella Vista Station , which is a 15-minute walk to the Farm . Limited parking will be available on-site . Pets , apart from service animals , are not permitted . This is an alcohol-free , familyfriendly event . PLAY WELL AFL PROGRAM WHEN : Thursday 23 January 2025 TIME : 9am – 12pm For participants aged 5 – 14 years WHERE : Charles McLaughlin Reserve ,

Baulkham Hills

This program is designed for kids who have never played AFL before to try the sport while supported by professional coaches from AFL NSW .

This program also includes an All Abilities session which is specifically designed for children and young people living with disability .

The Play Well AFL Program with AFL NSW has been made possible thanks to the Australian Sports Commission ’ s Play Well Participation Grant .

To register for the School Holiday Program activities , visit www . thehills . nsw . gov . au and search for ‘ School Holiday Activities .’