MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT:South African Camping Weekend at Tweed HeadsHosted By Big 4 Tweed Billabong Holiday ParkSupported By The Africa Club of Que
by Guest Author
Paddy Johnson from Tweed Heads in New South Wales recently contacted the Africa Club with a proposal to have an annual SaffieZimbo camping weekend. It sounded like a great idea and any reason to pack the tents in the Toyota and head off somewhere seems like a reasonable thing to do. We only had a couple of weeks to gather the troopsand it was Mothers Day weekend as well. So things werent looking up for a huge gathering. On the other hand, the weather was looking great and why not get away for the trip?
It was another week of work, trying to keep up with all the demands and getting on top of endless to-do tasksbut in the back of my mind was the weekend camping trip. Planning a camping trip is never really an issue, especially not camping at a Big 4 campground. The facilities are top class and Paddys site has a fully equipped camp kitchen with a fridge, stove and microwave.all you really need is your bed.
But the South African habits are hard to change. Leon Stevens (above) came and set up his palace and looked like he was planning on staying there for a long time. Very nicely laid out, mate. I opted for the tent only option and we set up our tent in five minutesand that was it.
As the evening approached, people from all over gathered at the camp kitchen. In this picture (left) we have Shaun (our South African with the Scottish accent) sitting down and (from left to right) me, Greg, Anne and Barbara with her daughter, Jamie.
The stories told were reminiscent of those share while sitting around a campfire. Paddy, the host (in the Springbok shirt), was telling stories with such enthusiasm that he had everyone in stitches. There were a few Castle Lagers to be had and people brought all kinds of goodies to share. We had plenty of boerewors, bobotie, melktert and even some klippies and coke.
The three musketeers, Grant Calverley, Leon Stevens and me (left), showed off our old shirts. At least it is the right colour green and gold.or is it now gold and green? LOL.
The night ended after a few people sat up until the early morning hours, sipping their red wine and contemplating life. Pictured (below) are Yolanda and Mike sitting and taking it all in. The next morning we explored the surrounding areas and found a few little gems, like Dreamtime Beach at Fingal Point, which is pictured below.
It was a great little camping trip and everyone had a lot of fun. Keep an eye out for the next trip soon. Morné Barnes (President)
For more information about Tweed Billabong Holiday Park, please contact Paddy Johnson on 1800 650 405 or info@tweedbillabong.com.au. Paddy offers a discount for South Africans staying at his holiday park.
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