1. Cider is the new Wine.
Now, don't misunderstand me, wine is still awesome, but Dads are digging cider tasting these days too. And with more than a few boutique cider houses popping up throughout Roleystone in the Perth hills, you can take dad on cider tour this father's day.
My tips: Roleystone Brewing Co at Raeburn Orchards, Naked Apple Cider (below) and Core Cider House (left).
Walk trails at Churchman Brook Dam.
2. It's a "Dam" good day out.
With Father's Day Weekend set to coincide with AFL's pre-finals series "week off", Dads will be well-primed for a little kick-to-kick action with their families this weekend. Perth's many dams make great picnic locations, with pretty views, quality BBQ facilities, and lots of space for big and small kids to run (or simply walk) about. Choose from Churchman Brook, Wungong Dam or Canning Dam in the Perth Hills Armadale, and don't forget your footy of choice!
3. There are things that go "Brrrm!"
Hugh Manning Tractor Museum
Kids and dads' get a kick out of the Bert Tyler Vintage Machinery Museum
If your dad and his little ones are into machinery, tractors and all things with engines you'll easily while away an afternoon at the region's museums.
You will need to book now to visit The Parolos Garage and Machinery Museum. Or, drop in any time to the Bert Tyler Vintage Machinery Museum (left). or the Hugh Manning Tractor & Machinery Museum (above).
4. Lunches look like this:
The Last Drop Elizabethan serves up a classic pub feast.
If you prefer not to BBQ or picnic, a classic pub lunch is a winner with most dads. The local pub is a good choice on a budget right now too, with many offering cut price beer and lots of menu options for even the fussiest of extended family members. Having spent my childhood in the hills and much of my working life in country areas, I LOVE how easy it is to get a true blue pub meal so close to home.
Call in on the Last Drop Elizabethan in Bedfordale, Ye Olde Narrogin Inn (also known as The Narry) in Armadale or, in the picturesque Serpentine Valley: The Jarrahdale Tavern.
5. You can tell Dad to take a (literal) hike!
The best thing about hiking close to the city is less time in the car and more time out enjoying the benefits of the forthcoming spring. Most trails are graded for skill and easy to navigate, they take in stunning (very 'grammable) sights - and are a great place to see the season's incredible wildflowers full, colourful bloom. In the Perth Hills Armadale, there's a trail to suit all dads no matter their hiking experience level:
· Wungong Gorge Trail (advanced)
· Kitty’s Gorge Walk Trail (intermediate)
· And Bungendore Park, for beginners (which is where @westozwildflowers spotted these beautiful yellow orchids vvv)