The Winter Huddle Holidays got off to a wild start with a range of interesting creatures visiting The Huddle from Reptile Encounters.  

The encounter was just one of the activities on offer to approximately 334 participants who took part in the jam-packed schedule available to both juniors (8-12-years-old) and seniors (13-18-years-old).  

The activities took an icy turn with a host of youth making their way to Lake Mountain to try their hand at tobogganing down the slopes. For many, this was the first time they had experienced snow with numerous snowpeople and snowballs amplifying the fun.  

“This has been one of the best days ever. I’ve had so much fun and made new friends,” Said a 10-year-old snow day participant. 

Participants also jumped at the opportunity to try their hand at ice skating at the O’Brien Icehouse and a ride on the Melbourne Star, with participants spying out their house from the top of the wheel. 

Senior participants served up the fun with a volleyball competition, thanks to the Western Region Volleyball and Volleyball Victoria. There was then a spike in competitive but friendly matches after learning the basics of the sport.  

“I’m really thankful for this day. There’s lots of opportunities to play and free food, free transport, free everything,” Vaughn said, volleyball tournament participant. 
 
The Arden St headquarters was also turned into a coffee house for a barista course and makeshift restaurant for a waiters’ course, thanks to the Institute of Training and Further Education, giving senior participants an opportunity to learn new skills. 

The Winter Huddle Holiday fun was rounded out with a picnic at the North Melbourne Community Centre. There was a range of wholesome activities of offer from OMG Yoga, capoeira (Brazilian Jiu Jitsu), henna, a drawing competition, kicking of the footy with North Melbourne AFLW player, Emma Kearney, and North AFL player, Trent Dumont, and a delicious barbecue.  

The activities were rounded out strongly with the rugby league gala day thanks to Melbourne Storm and NRL Youth. 

“Just an awesome experience.” Said Lachy, about the rugby gala day. 

Participants were kept energised with delicious food from Melbourne-based company, Ecco Catering.