Rocket Park
LOCATION GUIDERocket Park
LOCATION GUIDERocket Park (officially known as Hawthorn Central Gardens) is fairly small, but because the playground is the focus of most other visitors, we tend to have the rest of the park to ourselves. You may have to tell the kids that you’ll come back another time to play on the rocket though, because we’ll avoid that busy, distracting area for the photos.
We’ve put this guide together to help you find the park, feel at home and really enjoy your family portrait experience.
Below, you’ll find a map, weather forecast, suggestions in the area and lots more. We’re constantly adding to these guides too, so if you have a question it doesn’t cover, let us know.
Getting there
(Click the map to enlarge)
Costs and Access Restrictions
This location is free, and there are no photography permits required. There are no gates so it is always open.
What to bring
These pictures should be all about your family relationships, so there’s no need to bring props or additional clothing changes.
Here are a few things we suggest you bring:
- Water
- Snacks (TIP: try to choose substantial foods rather than grazing at small things like sultanas. That way each kid can take a break, fill their tummy and then rejoin the family)
- Any medicines your family might need
- Mosquito repellant (not usually required, but they can be a problem occasionally)
Will it rain?
You might prefer to keep an eye on the weather yourself too though, so we’ve put together a few resources for you.
Can we bring our dog?
Dogs are allowed in the park but must be kept on-lead at all times. Don’t worry though, as we can magic that lead away in photoshop for you!
As with any natural environment, we can’t guarantee that there won’t be snakes, other dogs or other dangers for your dog, so please take good care of your fur-baby. Please also ensure that your dog isn’t a danger to the park or the other visitors.
Can we bring our dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed in most areas of the reserve. They must be kept on-lead, but don’t worry, as we can magic that lead away in photoshop for you!
As with any natural environment, we can’t guarantee that there won’t be snakes, other dogs or other dangers for your dog, so please take good care of your fur-baby. Please also ensure that your dog isn’t a danger to the park or the other visitors.
“I knew our photos would be lovely, but wow! It’s not just the pictures that are great – our recollection of the whole session with Iain is so overwhelmingly positive and really adds to how much we love the record of it!”
What to wear
For lots of tips and ideas, check out our what-to-wear guide here.
If it helps, email a photo of some outfit ideas to hello@hugster.com.au or call us on 0489 912 602 and we’ll help you.
Family-friendly food nearby
The Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn shops are very nearby if you need something before or after your session. Here are a few of our favourite options for kid-friendly food in the area.
For a meal
Fonda is a great Mexican restaurant with delicious food for both parents and kids. We can’t go past the quesadillas every time, but we also love that they have a super-tasty kids menu that’s not just fish n chips or spag bol! ps. And the margaritas are pretty good too 😉 Here’s a map link and here’s their website
For a snack
If you’re just looking for something quick to fill little tummies, Bakers Delight is a great option. Our kids recommend the mini hot-dog rolls. Here’s a map link.
You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to coffee, our pick is Axil Coffee Roasters at 677 Glenferrie Road.
For everything else
There’s a Woolworths and a Coles on Glenferrie Road, quite close to Central Gardens with lots of parking at both. The Woolworths is our pick. Here’s a map link.