Where the Wild Things are at Storyland sand sculptures
Until April 27th this year Frankston, the gateway to Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula is hosting “Storyland” a spectacular exhibition of sand sculptures. Sculpture is a great way to introduce kids to art, and this exhibition, delivered by Sandstorm Events is perfect for young kids.
More than 25 sand sculptors worked for 2 weeks with 3500 tonnes of sand to create “Storyland”. The result is a display of giant sand sculptures, each depicting a children’s book from Penguin publications. Instantly recognisable to my five year old were Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, Hairy McLeary, Where the Wild Things Are, the Mr Men and Little Miss books, and Harry Potter series (even though he isn’t allowed to watch the Harry Potter movies yet and hasn’t been read the books). As well as viewing the sculptures there are a number of activities on offer including sand sculpting workshops, sand art, giant sand diggers, and a sand pit.
Bub 2 in front of The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe sand sculpture.
I really loved this exhibition, as did my children however my major reservations relate to price. A family ticket for 2 adults and 2 children is $39 dollars. I think this is reasonable considering the massive effort that went into creating such a masterpiece. What I would have liked however was for the other activities on site to be included in the entrance fee. Sand sculpting workshops are free however you have to pay to use the sand diggers, and be involved in other sand arts. Although food and drink are available on site the prices are exorbitant (more than $4 for a can of soft drink). The way I would advise other families to tackle this is to tell your children exactly what they will be allowed to do at “Storyland” prior to arriving e.g. look at the amazing sculptures and learn how to make some sculptures themselves. Also, bringing your own food is a must.
Peter Rabbit sand scupture at Storyland
Overall – “Storyland” is well worth the drive from Melbourne for a day trip and a must for families visiting the Mornington Peninsula. Plan to spend an hour and a half at “Storyland”.
During school holidays “Story land” is open from 10am-7pm Monday to Sunday.
From the 27th of January to the 27th of April it is open Monday to Friday 10am-4pm and Saturday Sunday 10am to 6pm.
