The Victorian Alps

Victorian Alps Family

From library story sessions and youth-led events to mountain snow play, families across the Victorian Alps can find practical ways to learn, connect and spend time together. Local early-years care, parenting programs and specialist support also provide clear pathways when extra help is needed.

📚 Early learning and community activities

Alpine Libraries

Bright, Mount Beauty and Myrtleford libraries run weekly Rhyme Time for children aged 0–2 and Story Time with craft for ages 3 and over. Weekly sessions do not require bookings. School-holiday activities are also offered, although these may need to be booked.

Alpine Children’s Services

This not-for-profit early childhood provider operates services in Bright, Myrtleford and Mount Beauty. Contact your preferred service to discuss enrolment and arrange an orientation or transition timetable. Eligible families may receive the Child Care Subsidy, except at Tawonga Kindergarten.

Alpine Shire Youth

Young people can help shape FReeZA music, cultural and recreational events that are free from alcohol, vaping, smoking and drugs. The Lighthouse pop-up youth hub in Bright provides a supportive space with skill-building workshops, community activities and mental-health resources. Enquiries go to Council’s Youth Development Officer.

❄ Family snow and mountain activities

Mount Buffalo National Park

During winter, families can explore snow play and tobogganing at Dingo Dell and Cresta Valley, as well as marked cross-country ski trails and snowshoe walks. Parks Victoria provides an accessibility assessment for the Gorge Day Visitor Area covering paths, viewing areas, parking and toilets. Check seasonal conditions and access before setting out.

Falls Creek Snowsports Kids Lessons

Seasonal programs include Snowclub for ages 3–6 and the progressive Junior Workshop for skiers or snowboarders aged 7–14. Places are limited, so advance online booking is recommended. Confirm current winter dates and participation requirements before travelling.

Hotham Kids Ski and Snowboard Lessons

Mount Hotham offers seasonal Mighty Mites ski lessons for ages 3–6 and Kids Club ski or snowboard lessons for ages 7–14, with half-day and full-day options. Helmets are compulsory for children and teenagers in Hotham snowsports programs. Lift tickets are not included with lessons, and early booking is recommended.

🌱 Parenting, development and family support

Alpine Shire Maternal and Child Health Service

Free appointments in Bright, Mount Beauty and Myrtleford support postnatal women and children from birth to school age with parenting education, development, early intervention and social support. Consultations require an appointment. Council also runs free, eligibility-based supported playgroups for children from birth to four during Victorian school terms.

Gateway Health Parenting Programs

Parents and carers of children aged 0–18 can access free group education, information sessions and individual support across the Ovens and Murray region, including Myrtleford and outreach locations. Programs vary by term and may include Tuning in to Toddlers, Kids or Teens and the Positive Parenting Telephone Service. Self-referrals are accepted through Child and Family Health intake.

Gateway Health CHIPS

CHIPS offers free early-intervention therapeutic counselling, group work and parenting support for children aged 0–12 experiencing social, emotional or behavioural challenges, together with their families. The regional program serves Bright, Mount Beauty and Myrtleford. Referral through Child and Family Health intake is required, with priority currently given to children and families experiencing vulnerability.

NESAY Adolescent Support Program

Outreach to Alpine Shire supports young people with complex needs or high-risk behaviours and their families, aiming to strengthen wellbeing and the home environment. Referrals can come from the young person, a school, community organisation or Child Protection.

✅ Before you book or visit

• Confirm age limits, supervision rules and whether a parent or carer must remain onsite.
• Check bookings, enrolment steps, referral pathways and current availability.
• Ask providers about accessibility or additional support relevant to your child.
• For alpine activities, review current weather, road and operating conditions, equipment requirements and costs.

📌 Family-focused businesses, services and community groups serving the Victorian Alps are warmly invited to add a listing or update their existing details.

⚠️ Accuracy Note: We do our best to keep this information useful and up to date, however details can change over time. If you notice anything that appears incorrect or out of date, please let us know and we will review it. Local business owners and community leaders can also help keep local information accurate by logging in and creating or managing their own listing and useful content on alps.vic.guide.