What a fantastic week we have had with our friends from Nelson New Zealand. After arrival on the tilt train Monday afternoon; we warmed ourselves with soup, crusty bread, and a variety of desserts, at Baldwin Swamp. The mist added to the mystique of the night.
What a fantastic week we have had with our friends from Nelson New Zealand. After arrival on the tilt train Monday afternoon; we warmed ourselves with soup, crusty bread, and a variety of desserts, at Baldwin Swamp. The mist added to the mystique of the night.
Entertainment was provided by Noel and Val Beets and Linda Rimmington on the accordions and a fun fashion parade with preloved clothing. Brian Burrows from Nelson, was the winner of the men's section with Helen Stubbins winner of the ladies.
Our mayor Lorraine Pyefinch, hosted a mayoral reception including morning tea for the ambassadors and hosts; followed by a tour of the meals on wheels complex. It was then over to the Botanical Gardens, to the friendship grove for the placing of the commemorative plaque under a tree. This was followed by a tour of the Hinkler Hall of Aviation.
Eight ambassadors enjoyed their day visit to Lady Elliott Island. The following day we visited the Tom Quinn Centre, {where life skills are taught to the under privileged.) Here we enjoyed morning tea provided by the workers. After lunch in the park, we enjoyed a tour of Microair Avionics. That night we had a meal at the Brothers Sports Club with music, dancing, and socialising.
Friday, we visited the Bundaberg Brewed Drinks and enjoyed the tour and the tasting afterwards. Several members then went to Rum Distillery.
Saturday, was a bus trip to Childers - a great time was had by all. We were greeted by members of the historical society, who explained the history of the area and after morning tea we walked down to the backpacker's memorial. Lunch at Vintners' Secret Winery with wine tasting as our farewell function. Following this we went to Mammino's ice cream factory where we were given an insight into macadamia nut and sugar cane growing.
Sunday, we bid farewell to our new found friends who left on the tilt train to continue their travels.
In closing I take this opportunity to thank my assistants Ellie Herd and Marj. Stanton; also to Bert Hersom and Norma Bates for their computer work. My thanks also go to the hosts and day hosts without you all this exchange would not have been possible.
ED: Linda Rimmington