45 utes and their occupants made the journey with many regulars attending. The “newcomers” were welcomed with open arms and those we spoke to were astounded with the friendship and hospitality of the regulars.

The whole weekend went off well with the boat club raising money from the meals served on Friday night and the Cricket Club enjoyed the bar takings. Without the efforts of Dion Dillon (a local camper customer of many years) we would have found it difficult organising such an event, but he got the whole show detailed for us beforehand and we are indebted to him for that.

On the Saturday we had two groups do the Bruny Island Eco-Tour run by Robert Pennicott. Not only was the tour spectacular but we were also privileged to have Rob speak after tea. The enthusiasm and vibrance in his speech was absolutely inspiring and we wish him well in the future.

Unfortunately whilst Karen and Macca from Red Desert Tours were serving up the 100 delicious meals their house in King Lake was burning to the ground. (On reflection we are glad they were with us rather than being at their home defending it!) They flew home in the morning and their good friends Ron and Viv Moon flew down on Monday for the Corroboree trip which was very generous of them.

During the group photo Karen and Macca’s situation was explained and we “passed around the hat” (a bag actually). We were amazed at the instant generosity and want to thank everyone for their donations and ongoing concerns for the Maccas. (Their website www.red-desert.com.au will be continually updated as to their progress.) They were informed of the donation from our group before they flew home and had the comfort of support even before they saw the devestation.

8 vehicles travelled the West Coast of Tassie with Ron and Viv and Phil and Sandy. The trip took in some rugged tracks and we were privileged to have Ron and Viv’s leadership, then at night stories of their recent Africa and Russian trip with their Carry Me Camper. Highlights of the trip were Montezuma Falls track, the Tassie Devil tour and Ron and Viv’s mystery tour.