Bluey’s World is open! Here are all the highlights your kids will love

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Thrill the little ones — and your own inner child — with a first look at the long-awaited Bluey’s World in Brisbane

Step aside, Hemsworths. Take a hike, Vegemite. Australia’s biggest export is Bluey, a children’s TV series about a Brisbane-based family of blue heelers that has thoroughly bewitched the globe. In a spectacular, pastel-splashed effort to captivate fans’ imaginations via an entirely new medium, Bluey’s World is an immersive event staged in the Queensland capital that celebrates the phenomenon in ways most could never have imagined.

From a dance party in the depths of Bluey and Bingo’s wardrobe to decorating jumbo-sized pavlovas in the family’s kitchen, our first look at Bluey’s World (open now at Northshore Brisbane in Hamilton until September 2025) uncovers extraordinary moments behind every door. Here, we break down the masterstrokes you need to see now.

 

 

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Exterior of Bluey's house at Bluey's World in Brisbane
Step inside Bluey’s World and enter the family’s life-sized house.

1. It’s a guided tour for kids, so parents can take a load off

Visitors to Bluey’s World are split into groups and taken on a guided 60-minute tour inside the 4,000-square-metre Northshore Pavilion within the Northshore Brisbane Precinct. Tasked to endlessly enchant your kids, the guides arrive as the Heelers’ garden gnomes (seen in episodes including Hide and Seek and Hammerbarn), brought to life by magical fairies (who debuted in Fairies but are also mentioned in later episodes), much to the delight of every kid in the room. Not only will parents have their little ones totally distracted for a solid hour, but those heaven-sent angels also nudge you when it’s time to usher your kids along. “Grown-ups, grab your squirts" was this very appreciative Australian Traveller writer’s cue to spring back into parenting mode when required.

Kids in Bluey's living room at the all new Bluey's World in Brisbane
The experience includes an action-packed guided tour.

2. There’s even Bluey-themed ferries to get you there

You can jump on board a regular CityCat service to Bluey’s World (or drive as there’s plenty of free parking) but we suggest you go one better by hitching a ride on a limited-edition CityDog. Two very special ferries have been decked out to resemble Bluey and Bingo, with one dressed in the older sibling’s trademark blue hue and the other a vibrant orange. No matter which one you catch, the sisters’ wide-eyed faces feature on both, providing an exhilarating, photo-perfect prelude to what’s to come.

Car rides inside Bluey's World in Brisbane
If you miss out on the ferry, you can always hitch a ride inside with these guys,

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3. The life-size sets are absolutely breathtaking

Your first step into Bluey’s World — which starts out the front of the Heeler house before the fairies open the front door — instantly teleports you to, well, the world of six-year-old Bluey. From the red and yellow garbage bins of Bin Night to the native purple cloud perennials planted at the foot of the old Queenslander’s façade, the details are deeply considered and flat-out beautiful.

Inside Bluey's bedroom at Bluey's World in Brisbane
The bedroom is as colourful as can be,

At one stage, your group will move through a walkable blanket fort, inspired by the episode Cubby and complete with scribbles of arrows, a toilet, a clock and other tell-tale household markers. And that’s before you even get to the siblings’ bedroom, and the playroom, and of course…

Inside Bluey's playroom at Bluey's World in Brisbane
The playroom… The sets are a work of art.

4. The kitchen. Just, everything about the kitchen

While every new door presents a room worthy of gasps (and we heard audible varieties upon every new unveiling), the kitchen at Bluey’s World is a standout.

Inside Bluey's kitchen at Bluey's World in Brisbane
Visitors gasped in awe when entering Bluey’s family kitchen for the first time.

Whether you’re piling berries and sprinkles over gigantic pavlovas, building ham and cheese sandwiches while overlooking the backyard (more on that highlight later), cooking the famed Australian Women’s Weekly Duck Cake (honoured in the Duck Cake episode) in the oven or simply basking in the fact you can finally take photos (all rooms prior to the kitchen prohibit photography), the kitchen is indeed the heart of this home.

The iconic Women's Weekly duck cake in the oven at Bluey's World in Brisbane
The iconic Women’s Weekly duck cake is baking in the oven.
Kids cooking pavlova in Bluey's kitchen at Bluey's World in Brisbane
The kids can pile berries and sprinkles over the gigantic pavlovas.

5. The kids’ wardrobe hides an infectious dance party

Once you’re done playing a round of Magic Xylophone with Unicorse (the very cheeky hand puppet from Unicorse who plays a central role at Bluey’s World), you’ll walk right through Bluey and Bingo’s wardrobe and into a darkened room made for unadulterated boogeying. No child is immune to the spell of Bluey’s gnomes, who dance around the room like absolutely nobody is watching. It’s end-to-end euphoric fun as racks of the kids’ clothing and Chattermax, Bluey’s favourite electronic toy, are projected in high-octane colour across the walls.

The hallway of Bluey's World in Brisbane
Follow your guide into Bluey and Bingo’s wardrobe for a dance party to rival all others.

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6. There’s a surprise creek in the mix

Organisers sold Bluey’s World as a tour of the Heeler homestead, but Bluey’s World also encompasses a slice of the great outdoors. At one stage of the tour, you’ll stumble across a tranquil creek, much like the one featured in the widely adored The Creek episode, filled with more impressive projections and set designs to recreate Bluey’s beloved open-air escape. Skip across rocks, hop between floods of tadpoles and spot a wallaby amid a remarkably cooling ode to Queensland’s natural beauty.

7. The backyard’s Poinciana tree is an architectural feat

As iconic as the show’s canine stars, the Heelers’ Poinciana tree is world-renowned. Thankfully, this interpretation lives up to the hype. It looms dramatically over Bluey’s World’s sprawling backyard, decorated with the same paper lanterns seen hanging off the animated version in the famed Keepy Uppy episode. A family selfie is mandatory, as is taking a seat beneath its leafy branches as a series of inflated red balls take flight and squealing children live out their wildest dreams around you.

The Heelers’ Poinciana tree is in the backyard at Bluey's World
Get a family selfie under the Heelers’ Poinciana tree is world-renowned in the backyard.

8. The retail outlets are themed to perfection

It wouldn’t be a kids’ day out without sufficient snacks. At Bluey’s World, they’ve got you covered with a variety of light bites or much heartier picks including a selection of pudgy-based pizzas inspired by the episode Pizza Girls.

The shopfront of Golden Crown Takeaway inside Bluey's World in Brisbane
Pick up spring rolls, gyoza and fortune cookies from Golden Crown Takeaway onsite.

Fans of the show will love the Golden Crown Takeaway shopfront, seen in the episode Takeaway, which dishes up spring rolls, gyoza and fortune cookies. Don’t leave without visiting Alfie’s Gift Shop, too, home to exclusive Bluey merchandise no visitor to this once-in-a-lifetime event will manage to resist.

Shopfront of Alfie's Gift Shop inside Bluey's World in Brisbane
Alfie’s Gift Shop is full to the brim of take-home souvenirs.

Bluey’s World is now open at Northshore Brisbane. For tickets and further information, visit the website.    

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Kristie Lau-Adams
Kristie Lau-Adams is a Gold Coast-based freelance writer after working as a journalist and editorial director for almost 20 years across Australia's best-known media brands including The Sun-Herald, WHO and Woman's Day. She has spent significant time exploring the world with highlights including trekking Japan’s life-changing Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and ziplining 140 metres above the vines of Mexico’s Puerto Villarta. She loves exploring her own backyard (quite literally, with her two young children who love bugs), but can also be found stalking remote corners globally for outstanding chilli margaritas and soul-stirring cultural experiences.
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Why Hamilton Island is perfect for multi-gen travel

Consider this your cheat sheet to holidaying on Hamilton Island with the clan.

Keeping everyone in your crew happy on holidays is no small feat. Yet ask any parent who’s been and they’ll unanimously agree Hamilton Island multi-gen travel overdelivers – for many reasons.

Taking the family to this premier island destination is a rite of passage for many Aussie parents. Not only is Hamo stuffed to the brim with fun activities to suit all ages, but it’s accessible, safe and super easy to get around thanks to its relatively small size. And I suppose the fact that it’s undeniably stunning doesn’t hurt either.

Whether you’re spending time together creating magical memories or relaxing while giving the young ones some kids’ club time, this guide breaks down everything there is to know about holidaying on Hamilton Island for families.

Getting there, and around

Hamilton Island multi-gen travel on a buggy
Hire a buggy and explore at your own pace.

The easiest and most fuss-free way to get to Hamilton Island is to fly to Great Barrier Reef Airport, located on the island. Qantas, Virgin and Jetstar offer short, direct flights from most major Australian cities, including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Cairns. Alternatively, fly to Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) near Airlie Beach, then take a ferry from Shute Harbour with Cruise Whitsundays, which operates services daily.

Once you’re here, rental buggies make it easy to zip around from A to B (not to mention being a fun activity in themselves – the kids will love it).

Where to stay

Reef View Hotel Pool Terrace hamilton island multi-gen travel
Reef View Hotel offers pool and sea. (Credit: Kara Rosenlund)

Part of what makes Hamilton Island so appealing is its diverse range of family-friendly accommodation. Many include return airport or marina shuttles, along with complimentary use of non-motorised watersports equipment – making it easy to relax as soon as you step foot on the island.

Reef View Hotel is one of the most popular picks due to its spacious suites perfect for larger families and proximity to the island’s resort centre – a happening hub of restaurants, pools and water activities.

Meanwhile, families looking for something more self-contained can check into Palm Bungalows. Each modern bungalow is enveloped by lush tropical gardens and offers a kitchenette, bar fridge, microwave and coffee facilities – plus a private balcony for card games and evening drinks.

pool and sup boarders at The Sundays hamilton island
Take in pool and sea at The Sundays.

The Sundays is another fantastic option for families. The newest hotel on Hamilton Island, it has serious bragging rights thanks to its coastal chic design and stellar location at the end of Catseye Beach. Opt for one of the Family Connect Rooms for extra breathing room.

For that relaxed, home-away-from-home feeling, Hamilton Island Holiday Homes hit the nail on the head. Choose from more than 100 self-catering homes dotted around the island that accommodate both large groups and smaller families. From waterfront luxury to spacious villas, there’s something for everyone.

Family tip: Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows and The Sundays all participate in Hamilton Island’s Kids Stay Free program, earning themselves a reputation as some of the best family-friendly accommodation on Hamilton Island. No extra charge is added for up to one or two (dependent on the hotel) children under 12 who are sharing a room with parents and using existing bedding.

Where to eat

coca chu on hamilton island
Sit down to a feast at coca chu.

Hamilton Island’s foodie scene is seriously worth its salt. From just-caught seafood to family-friendly staples, even the fussiest of eaters will be satisfied.

Start at coca chu, one of the best Hamilton Island restaurants for families. Spotlighting vibrant Southeast Asian flavours, it offers a lively, high-ceiling setting overlooking Catseye Beach. Nearby is Catseye Pool Club, Josh and Julie Niland’s breezy coastal venue that’s at once elevated and laidback. Dishing up the likes of charcoal tiger prawns with lemongrass marinade and Greek-style lamb shoulder, it’s the perfect place to celebrate birthdays or milestone moments with older kids.

Got young ones who recoil at the sight of vegetables? Not to worry. Head straight to Romano’s for please-all pizza, or Marina Tavern for hearty pub classics in a relaxed atmosphere complete with an outdoor deck.

Catseye Pool Club hamilton island
Grab some tasty bites by the pool at Catseye Pool Club.

For brekkie or lunch, Bob’s Bakery is a family favourite for affordable pastries, sandwiches and pies, while Marina Cafe serves up bacon and egg rolls and salads with fresh smoothies. And Popeye’s does a mean fish and chips to go.

Sails Restaurant is the place to be for poolside bites with views of the Whitsundays’ famous turquoise waters. The kids can splash in the pool while parents sip spritzes and graze on mezze plates of za’atar pita, hummus and olives. The menu leans Mediterranean and Middle Eastern, though you’ll also find plenty of kid-friendly crowd favourites such as ham and cheese toasties. For something extra special, book in the Piper Package – expect exclusive access to a king-size sunbed with a shaded umbrella, plus a chilled bottle of Piper-Heidsieck NV Champagne and a showstopping seafood platter (I still have dreams about it).

Where to explore

hamilton island couple running on trail
Explore the island’s walking trails.

There are bucket loads of family-friendly activities on Hamilton Island that the whole clan can do together. First stop: hiring a buggy and taking your time to explore the island at your own pace. Next stop: getting active and creating memories together in the process.

One of the best activities on Hamilton Island for families is tackling one (or more) of its beautiful bush and walking trails, with the one-hour hike to Passage Peak a standout for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. Morning is a great time to go to beat the heat (and other walkers).

For the active and adventurous, the all-new E-mountain biking facilities make for an adrenaline-packed experience your teens won’t be able to stop talking about. It’s a self-guided trail taking riders to some of the island’s quietest and most scenic pockets, and the knowledgeable staff at Hamilton Island Trails HQ will fit you out with all the gear you need for a safe adventure.

E-mountain biking on hamilton island
Check out the all-new E-mountain biking facilities.

Come sunset, you’d be silly not to head up to One Tree Hill at least once during your stay. Offering breathtaking 360-degree views as the sun brushes the horizon with gold, it’s a popular place for groups and families to come together and enjoy a drink from the pop-up cocktail van.

Family tip: If you’re staying at the Sundays, Reef View Hotel, Palm Bungalows or Hamilton Island Holiday Homes, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to a range of water activities, including catamarans, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and snorkel equipment at Catseye Beach. Keep an eye out for the turtles that love to hang around the shallow fringing reef.

Where to play

heart reef
Take the family on a day tour to places like Heart Reef.

Kids are sure to have a field trip thanks to the island’s abundance of child-centric offerings.

Parents in need of some ‘me time’ can drop little ones between six months and 12 years off at the Clownfish Club, located near the Resort Centre and Pool. Overseen by trained professionals, the nursery offers a calm space for toddlers and babies with a balance of gentle play and rest. Meanwhile, older kids can unleash their imaginations with age-appropriate craft, games and group activities.

Parents seeking a stress-free night out can also make use of Hamilton Island’s babysitting services, which start from $40 an hour.

Hamilton Island Wildlife is another must-visit stop. Fun for children of all ages (and adults too!), the centre provides up-close encounters with a variety of cute and fascinating Aussie animals. Think marsupials, snakes, lizards, koalas and kangaroos, along with a giant saltwater crocodile. Catch the 10am or 2pm daily tours (included with entry) guided by expert keepers, or opt for a 30-minute private or small-group VIP encounter with an animal of your choice.

More kid-friendly entertainment awaits at Palm Valley Activities, where you can race around the go-karting track and reach up to 45 kilometres per hour. Kids under 16 can ride as passengers in double go-karts. Or perhaps try your hand at mini golf at the HI Fitness Club, navigating palms, playful challenges and pathways that wind through lush tropical gardens.

Keen to explore further afield? A wide range of Hamilton Island day trips promise endless excitement, from snorkelling on a Great Barrier Reef tour and chartering a boat to marvelling at the swirling sands of Whitehaven Beach from a scenic plane.

To plan your family island escape, visit hamiltonisland.com.au.