When tickets went on sale for the family picnic, I was a little unsure as to what to expect, especially as I was taking our teenage son along. On arrival at Paradise Wildlife Park, we began to search for fellow members. I was amazed when a staff member from the park came up and asked me if I was with the "biker group", (I’m not sure if I have a particular look about me or how she knew!). She put me in the right direction; I felt like a VIP! Along the way we found Dean who confirmed that we were heading in the right direction. It was brilliant to see such a great turn out. We had been allocated a private area and there was even a marquee in the event that the weather turned nasty. On the contrary, the weather was amazing. It must have been one of the nicest summer days we have had so far. It was brilliant to see so many family members and children about. This was the perfect opportunity to meet the "other halves". Children were running about laughing, picnic hampers were a-plenty and legs were out catching some much needed sun. Around this time there was a commotion around Murray’s (Dave Clements) bike. He had found a "stowaway" in the form of a snail. How this snail managed to stay on the bike for the duration of the journey to the park, just amazes me. All I can think of is that the Triumph is "slug-ish" and the little fellow managed to hang on!

We received a visit from the "keeper", much to the enjoyment of the little ones. The children (and some brave adults) were given the opportunity to touch a corn snake, a lizard called a "bearded dragon" and an owl. Another much appreciated facility nearby was a paddling pool for the children which proved to be very popular because of the heat. There was so much to see at the park, and as always the "Big Cats" were at hit. The Gibbons provided great entertainment as usual. I know these little fellows are a favourite with Theresa. The Speed Racing museum was also worth the visit. A particular treat for me was when we watched the feeding of the lions at the end of the day. I certainly will be at the front of the queue when the next picnic tickets go on sale.

Colleen