If you are looking for a theme park that truly offers something for everyone, Gumbuya World in Tynong is an absolute standout. Before visiting, I had only heard snippets about how much it had changed over the years. My husband grew up in Berwick and remembers the “old” Gumbuya with its toboggans, go-karts, wallabies everywhere and classic picnic areas.

Walking through the gates on the weekend, it is almost impossible to believe it is the same place. Gumbuya World has transformed into a vibrant multi-zone theme park packed with water fun, thrill rides, family adventures and native wildlife experiences.

We visited with our three boys (11, 9 and 7) plus Nana, and all of them agreed it was one of their favourite days out.

ellaslist Reviews: A Day Out at Gumbuya World

Oasis Springs: Water Fun for All Ages

Naturally, the boys wanted to start at Oasis Springs, Gumbuya World’s impressive water park, and honestly, I was just as excited as they were. The entire area feels like a resort holiday, with bright colours, palm trees and plenty of space.

The Wave Pool was an immediate hit. It is big, clean and delivers just the right amount of wave action for fun without being overwhelming. We then floated along the Lazy River, which is the perfect calm moment between the more energetic attractions.

And then come the slides – and they are genuinely fantastic. A few standouts:

• Taipan – a dark and twisty group raft slide that had the boys laughing (and screaming) the entire way down.
• Boomerango – the huge wall you shoot up before plunging back down. It looks terrifying from the ground, but it is manageable and loads of fun.
• Red Belly Racer – a competitive mat-racing slide that our three boys went on at least ten times.

We hired a cabana, which was a great decision. With shade, seating and space to store bags, it made lunch easy and gave everyone a spot to relax between rides.
There are also day beds, sun lounges and reserved areas available.

Oasis Springs also offers a family dryer, which is ideal if the weather turns cool and you want to warm up quickly before moving to the next park zone!

Note: The popular Surf’s Up attraction and Project Zero return on 26 December

Oz Adventure: Thrills and Adrenaline

After the waterpark, we headed to Oz Adventure, the home of Gumbuya’s biggest thrill rides. I somehow ended up being the parent nominated to go on all the scary ones, so I can confirm they are no joke!

The boys loved TNT – a fantastic family-friendly roller coaster with just the right amount of speed and dips to make everyone laugh and scream, and I had to try Rebel, an intense swinging, spinning ride perfect for teenagers and braver adults (for ages 14+).

This area is ideal for confident riders and families with older kids who want something a little more adventurous.

Outback Explorers: Classic Family Fun

For families with younger children, Outback Explorers is packed with rides that are gentle, colourful and fun. Think mini coasters, spinning cups, trains and more. Although my boys are a bit older now, we walked through and went on a few of the rides, and they all agreed it would have been their favourite area a few years ago.

Gumbuya has done a great job ensuring the family zone feels just as exciting as the thrill area, so no child misses out.

Wildlife Trail: A Calm and Educational Break

We ended our day at the Wildlife Trail, which was a lovely change of pace after the rides. The trail features dingos, kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, emus and a huge range of native birds and reptiles.

The boys enjoyed being able to get close to the animals, and there were plenty of shaded paths, which made it a comfortable walk. The Staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and it was great to mix learning and fun after such an adrenaline-filled morning.

Accessibility & Family-Friendly Features

One of the most impressive things about Gumbuya World is how accessible it is. The park has:

• Wheelchair-friendly routes across all zones
• Accessible facilities
• Clear signage and friendly staff
• Multiple quiet and shaded areas
• Family dryers and ample seating

Gumbuya World is genuinely welcoming to guests of all abilities, which is wonderful to see. For birthdays, the park offers kids' party packages starting from $75 per child, which include full-day access and are great value for what the park offers.

Final Thoughts

Gumbuya World absolutely exceeded our expectations. The combination of thrill rides, family rides, wildlife encounters and the incredible water park means you can easily spend a full day exploring without anyone getting bored.

All three boys rated it a “ten out of ten”, and I left thinking we should have visited much sooner.

Whether you have little ones, big kids or a mix of ages, Gumbuya World is a brilliant day out and a must-visit destination this summer.

Love the Outdoors? 

Families who enjoy outdoor adventures can explore even more activities around Melbourne. You can browse our round-up of the Best Outdoor Toys for backyard fun, plan a day trip to one of the most Kid-friendly Waterfalls Near Melbourne, or set aside a sunny weekend to visit Melbourne's Best Family Beaches.

Have you signed up to our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!