Port Lincoln kids encouraged to get active through free Growing for Gold holiday program

Children and young people across Port Lincoln will have the opportunity to get active, try new sports and make new friends these school holidays, through the South Australian Government's free Growing for Gold initiative – a program of free come-and-try sport sessions available to kids from 26 to 30 September 2026.

Open to children aged 3 to 16 years, Growing for Gold is designed to encourage young people to spend more time participating in active, social activities. The initiative is part of the South Australian Government's overarching plan to improve health and wellbeing outcomes for children and young people across the state.

In Port Lincoln, participants will have the opportunity to try little athletics, tennis, cricket, table tennis, squash, volleyball and more – encouraging local children try new activities, discover new interests and stay active during the school holidays.

The program has a long history of success in Adelaide's northern suburbs and is now expanding into regional South Australia, with pilot programs being delivered in Port Lincoln and the Riverland ahead of a 2027 statewide rollout. The expansion will provide local families with free opportunities to explore a variety of sporting and recreational activities.

Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing Emily Bourke said the program aimed to make it easier for children to discover new interests and build lifelong healthy habits.

"Growing for Gold is all about giving kids the chance to get active, have fun and try something new in a welcoming environment.”

“We're proud to bring this successful program to Port Lincoln and provide regional families with the same opportunities that have benefited thousands of young people in metropolitan Adelaide."

"We know children are spending more time on screens than ever before, and initiatives like Growing for Gold help create positive experiences that encourage physical activity, connection and confidence."

City of Port Lincoln Mayor Diana Mislov said “This program is a fantastic opportunity for local families.”

"These free sessions will give local children the chance to discover new activities, build confidence, develop new skills and connect with others in a fun and supportive environment. We encourage families to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity during the school holidays."

"Port Lincoln is a community that values sport, recreation and healthy lifestyles, and we're delighted to be part of the Growing for Gold pilot expansion program."

Families can register and view the full program schedule by visiting the Growing for Gold website: orsr.sa.gov.au/get-active/growing-for-gold.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

City of Port Lincoln Chief Executive Officer Eric Brown

Ph: 8621 2325 | Email: plcc@plcc.sa.gov.au