Whether you’re looking for a new creative outlet, something to keep you active or a way to challenge your mind, there are plenty of ways to stay engaged and inspired during these last few months of sunny weather. And with the weather expected to cool as we approach autumn, now’s a great time to pick up a new hobby!
Here are some fantastic options to consider adding to your lifestyle.
Australia boasts some of the best and most stunning sights for artistic impressions. Landscape paintings are far and few in-between nowadays, so this is a great way to connect (or reconnect) with the wilder parts of our country.
If you’re in Queensland, the towering silhouette of Mount Coot-Tha or the pioneering outback landscapes of Longreach are a great place to start. The rainforests of Tasmania also offer a unique perspective from which to embark on your craft, or you could even go contemporary with the Sydney or Melbourne cityscapes!
Watercolours and pastels are great options for beginners, offering an easy and inexpensive way to create art. Many local councils and community centres also offer outdoor painting groups, providing an opportunity to socialise while honing your skills.
Birdwatching is a fantastic way to connect with nature and can be done from the comfort of your garden or on leisurely strolls through local parks. We host some of the most unique bird species in the world, such as the kookaburra, rainbow lorikeet and more. A pair of binoculars and a good field guide are all you need to start.
If you enjoy capturing special moments, photography is a great complement to birdwatching. Smartphones make it easier than ever to take quality photos, or you can invest in a camera with a zoom lens for more detailed shots.
Gardening is not only a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also beneficial for mental and physical health. It’s an excellent way to stay active without strenuous exercise and could even save you a few bucks on your next grocery shop!
In summer, opt for drought-resistant plants like lavender, kangaroo paw and native grasses to maintain a low-maintenance yet beautiful garden. Vegetable gardening is another rewarding pursuit — tomatoes, zucchinis and herbs thrive in the Australian summer.
If you’re looking for tips on how to get the most out of your gardening hobby, check out our extensive gardening section here.
If you’re looking for a hobby that’s more indoors-oriented, learning to play an instrument is one that you can easily embark on. Ukuleles, keyboards, kalimbas and harmonicas are popular choices for beginners because they are lightweight and relatively easy to learn. You can also easily find tutorials on YouTube and other online sources for free, making learning easy and nearly cost-free for everyone.
Writing can be a deeply fulfilling hobby, whether you want to document your life experiences, pen short stories or start a personal blog about your interests. Memoir writing allows you to reflect on past adventures, family history and personal growth while leaving behind a valuable record for future generations.
If you prefer a more public platform, a blog can be a fun way to share your knowledge and experiences with others. You can also share your written works without setting up a blog site of your own — for example, we have a submissions forum here, where you can share your thoughts to the rest of the community!
Crafting offers endless possibilities, from knitting and crocheting to pottery and woodworking. Summer is a great time to work on lightweight crafts, such as making jewellery, painting ceramics or trying macramé. Joining a crafting group or attending workshops can make the experience even more enjoyable.
And, if you’re confident enough, you could even make some money off of your hobby by vending your wares at local markets or on online platforms like Etsy!
Australia’s summer skies are spectacular, with celestial wonders like the Southern Cross, Orion’s Belt and meteor showers lighting up the night. Stargazing can be a peaceful and awe-inspiring hobby, best enjoyed from a backyard or a nearby dark-sky reserve.
There are many free apps available to help identify constellations and planets, making it easy to start exploring the universe from home. You may also be able to find and join local astronomy clubs.