All across Australia, the heat is on. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the long, hot summer on Australia's east coast is going to stretch well into Autumn, with more warm weather forecast until the end of April. Heatwaves are sweeping the nation, so what better time to share our favourite ways to beat the heat.

Have some Ice Cube Trays ready in the freezer for tomorrow, and to quench your guests' thirst at your next party! Made from food grade silicone, these Australian-themed ice cube trays are non-stick, flexible and easy to clean. Brighten up your drinks with 4 of our designs, featuring iconic Aussie Koalas, Kangaroos, Map of Australia shapes or a 3 in 1 mould option if you can't choose a favourite. Or, get creative and use them to make cookies, chocolate or jelly moulds. Drinks and desserts will never be the same, kids (and kids at heart) will love them.

Don't forget the animals, both domestic and native. Ensure you always leave out multiple water bowls (weighted down even better) in shaded places for your dog or pet, so they always have access to fresh water while you're out. Even better, freeze some treats inside an ice-cream container the day before, providing a longer lasting game for your dog to lick and play with to get the hidden reward, while staying cool. On hot days, all animals will seek water and shade. So let's not forget about our Aussie insects, birds, frogs and reptiles, plus echidnas, koalas, wallabies, kangaroos, possums and yes, even ssssssnakes.. placing shallow bowls of water in your yard will help keep all creatures great and small hydrated.

If a trip to the beach or river, lake or creek isn't possible where you are, there's plenty more options to keep your cool. Who can resist the sheer delight of running through a sprinkler on the lawn, a dip in an inflatable kiddy pool, or all hell breaking loose in a massive water fight?!