iceHQ

We’ve been on the hunt for a great indoor activity for a while, and I think we’ve found a winner with iceHQ in Reservoir. It's a full-sized ice skating rink located about 11km north of the CBD. It’s not just a big oval of ice; it’s a whole experience. The public skating sessions are buzzing with energy, complete with colourful lights, music videos on a big screen, and even on-ice games like limbo that the kids can join. They offer everything from casual public skating sessions to more structured "Aussie Skate" learn-to-skate programs, ice hockey leagues, and birthday party packages. It really caters to the whole family, whether you're taking your first wobbly steps on the ice or you're a seasoned pro.

Age Appropriateness

This is a spot that truly works for a wide range of ages. The official minimum age to get on the ice is three years old. For the littlest skaters (toddlers and preschoolers), they have fantastic plastic seal and polar bear-shaped skating aids for hire, which make a world of difference for their stability and confidence. My little one loved pushing the seal around! Their "Aussie Skate" school has classes for kids as young as four and goes all the way up to programs for teens and adults, grouping kids by age and ability. So, whether you have a tiny tot or a too-cool-for-school teen, there's something to get them moving. Even as a parent, it’s a great workout and a fun way to connect with the kids.

The Highlights (Pros)

One of the biggest wins for us is that skate and helmet hire are included in the entry price! This is a huge plus as it saves you from having to invest in gear your kids will quickly outgrow. They offer both figure skates and hockey skates, with sizes from a kids' size 8 up to an adult 12. Safety is clearly a priority; they offer free helmets, knee pads, and wrist guards, and there are always staff on the ice to help skaters who’ve taken a tumble. Another fantastic feature is the free on-site parking, which is a rare and beautiful thing. The vibe is just really fun and upbeat, and for parents who'd rather watch, entry is free for spectators and there's a warm, upstairs viewing area and café overlooking the rink.

The Watch-Outs (Cons)

As you can imagine, it gets very chilly in the rink, so you absolutely must dress warmly. While there is a café on-site, they don’t allow any outside food or drink, with the exception of water bottles. The food options are mostly snacks and café-style light meals, which might not be enough if you’re planning a longer visit or have specific dietary needs. It can get quite busy during peak times like school holidays and weekends, which means the free parking spots can fill up quickly and the rink itself can feel a bit crowded. Also, while the skate aids are brilliant, they do cost an extra fee to hire.

Practical Survival Tips for Parents

• Book Online: It’s a good idea to check their website for public session times and purchase your tickets in advance, as times can occasionally change due to special events.
• Dress in Layers: Seriously, pile on the warm clothes! Think coats, gloves, and thick socks. A spare pair of socks is a genius idea for after, just in case.
• Arrive Early: Especially on weekends, get there a bit before your session starts to snag a good parking spot and get your skates fitted without a long wait.
• Hire a Skate Aid: For any child under six or first-timers, hiring one of the animal skate aids is well worth the small fee. It will save your back and make the experience much more enjoyable for them.
• Safety First: Don't be shy about grabbing the free helmets and protective gear, especially for beginners. A fall on the ice is no joke!
• Plan for Snacks: Remember the 'no outside food' rule. Either plan to buy from the café or have snacks ready in the car for the ride home. They have hot and cold drinks, snacks, and hot food available.