Christmas is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a fun-filled team party? This year, we headed to Holey Moley, and it was an experience to remember!
We kicked off the day with an 18-hole round of mini golf. The quirky and creative courses kept everyone entertained, sparking plenty of laughs and a bit of friendly competition. Though the weather was on the warmer side, the great company more than made up for it. There’s something special about bonding with your team outside of work – it brings everyone closer and makes the day all the more enjoyable.
After our golf adventure, we sat down to enjoy some delicious food. Good food, great conversation, and a festive atmosphere – the perfect combination to wrap up the year with cheer.
I absolutely love this time of year. It’s packed with Christmas functions and celebrations, giving us all a chance to relax, connect, and spread joy. The Holey Moley party was a fantastic way to kick off the holiday season, and I’m already looking forward to more festive fun ahead!
Byron Bay – a place that effortlessly captures your heart with its beauty and charm. Our recent trip to this coastal paradise was nothing short of magical.
From the moment we arrived, we were swept away by the laid-back vibe of the town. The streets buzzed with happy faces, local shops, and cafes filled with the aroma of fresh coffee. It felt like everyone here knew how to pause and embrace the beauty of the moment.
Our main destination was the famous Byron Bay Lighthouse, a landmark that has graced countless postcards. Perched on the easternmost point of mainland Australia, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the ocean that are nothing short of breathtaking. As we made our way up, we were lucky enough to spot pods of whales swimming gracefully in the deep blue sea. Watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat was a moment of pure awe and wonder.
The day couldn’t have been more perfect – sunny skies, a gentle ocean breeze, and a sense of serenity that seemed to envelop the whole place. We spent time soaking in the views, capturing memories with our cameras, and simply appreciating the natural beauty around us.
One of the best things about Byron Bay is how effortlessly it combines nature with a vibrant community vibe. After the lighthouse visit, we strolled through the town, enjoying everything from street performers to delicious food. There’s something special about this place – a harmony that makes you want to stay forever.
Byron Bay is more than just a destination; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder to slow down, breathe deeply, and embrace the beauty of life. We left feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning our next trip back.
While exploring the Central Coast, we decided to take on The Skillion at Terrigal, and it did not disappoint! The walk up this iconic headland is a bit of a challenge, but it’s the kind of workout that rewards you at every step, with stunning scenery to keep you motivated.
The path is paved with a well-maintained concrete pathway, making it accessible, and there are seats along the way if you need to catch your breath or simply enjoy the view as you ascend. Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with a panoramic view that’s nothing short of breathtaking. The coastline stretches endlessly in both directions, and you get a perfect vantage point of Terrigal Beach and the surrounding landscape. It’s a photographer’s dream and an absolute must for anyone visiting the Central Coast.
What I love about the walk up to The Skillion is that it’s designed for all types of adventurers. The steeper sections are made easier with handrails and steps, so it’s as safe as it is scenic. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just out for a leisurely stroll, this walk offers something for everyone. On a warm, sunny day with blue skies overhead, there’s no better way to spend your time than to climb up and enjoy the fresh coastal breeze and the uninterrupted ocean views.
The headland itself is a natural wonder. The exposed layers of rock tell a geological story, with the striking rock formations below creating a rugged platform that’s just as interesting as the views from above. There’s a sense of history and timelessness in these ancient cliffs, and it’s easy to spend a few extra moments just taking it all in.
For those looking for a serene yet invigorating experience, The Skillion is the perfect spot. It’s a straightforward walk, suitable for all fitness levels, and the views are more than worth the effort. If you ever find yourself in the Central Coast, don’t miss the chance to visit this gem—you won’t regret it!
If you’re looking for a family-friendly day out near Sydney, Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem that offers an immersive and authentic wildlife experience. Just a 60-minute drive from the city, this sanctuary gives visitors the chance to interact with Australian wildlife in their natural habitat, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional zoos.
If you love animals but aren’t a fan of zoo environments, this is the perfect place for you. Set on 80 acres of lush Australian bushland, Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary is home to free-roaming kangaroos, emus, and wallabies. The sanctuary provides a haven for many rescued animals, now living out their days in a caring and safe environment. From koalas to Tasmanian devils to flying foxes, the sanctuary features a wide range of native animals that can be seen up close. The free-roaming roos and emus offer incredible opportunities for interaction and photography, making it a fantastic destination for animal lovers of all ages.
We recently visited the sanctuary with the whole family and we all left with wonderful memories. The sanctuary has an organic, non-commercial feel to it, which adds to its charm. Unlike many attractions with concrete paths and overly sanitized environments, this sanctuary embraces the wild Australian bush. You’ll walk along natural dirt tracks, surrounded by the authentic sounds and sights of the wilderness.
Many of the animals, like kangaroos and emus, roam freely around the park, creating a fun and spontaneous experience as you interact with them in their natural setting. Other animals, such as Tasmanian devils, pythons, and flying foxes, are housed in enclosures for safety.
And if you have little ones with you, don’t miss the petting zoo! It’s filled with friendly chickens, ducks, rabbits, and, of course, the charming llama, giving kids a fun, hands-on experience they’ll absolutely love.
For those interested in reptiles, the sanctuary also hosts a fascinating reptile show. Here, you can touch a lizard, snake, or turtle, making it an exciting opportunity to learn about these incredible creatures up close. Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary truly offers something special for animal lovers of all ages!
In addition to the wildlife, the sanctuary also offers walking tracks that lead to ancient Aboriginal sites, adding another layer of cultural and historical richness to the experience. These trails are a great way to connect with nature while learning about Australia’s Indigenous heritage. It’s not just about the animals—it’s about the land and its stories, too.
This sanctuary is not a highly commercialised attraction, so don’t come expecting pristine paved paths or a gourmet café. Instead, embrace the raw beauty of the Australian bush. The café is simple, and the walking trails are natural, but the trade-off is worth it for the authentic wildlife encounters you’ll experience.
We also found some comments about kangaroos lying on dry dirt amusing. This is exactly what kangaroos do in the wild! There’s no perfectly manicured green grass in the bush, and that’s what makes this place so special—it’s real, it’s raw, and it’s a true reflection of Australia’s natural landscape.
Our experience at Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary was unforgettable, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic wildlife experience. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or even solo, it’s a beautiful reminder of what the real Australian bush has to offer.
So, pack some snacks, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready for a day of adventure. The kangaroos, wallabies, and all their furry, feathered, and scaly friends are waiting to meet you!
After a restful night in Cooma, we woke up early, determined to make the most of our day at Perisher Valley. The anticipation was palpable as we hired car chains and toboggans once again before setting off. The drive from Cooma to Perisher took just over an hour, with the landscape gradually transforming into a winter wonderland as we ascended into the mountains.
Arriving at the entrance to Perisher Valley, we were relieved and thrilled to find that we could get in. After paying the $29 National Park fee, we eagerly made our way to the car park. It was around 9:15 am, and despite being early, the car park was already about 70% full—a testament to how popular this spot is during the snow season.
As we stepped out of the car, the beauty of Perisher Valley took our breath away. The fresh snowfall from the previous night had blanketed everything in a pristine layer of white, making the whole valley look like a scene from a postcard. The kids were especially excited; it was like stepping into a winter fairy tale.
We quickly got ready, bundled up in our warmest clothes, and headed to the toboggan hills. Initially, Chhora tobogganed with me and my husband, but soon his confidence grew, and he wanted to go down on his own. Watching his joy and excitement as he sped down the hill was priceless. We must have gone up and down that hill a hundred times, each run more exhilarating than the last.
In between tobogganing, we found time to build a snowman. It was a family effort, and the kids were particularly proud of the end result, complete with a carrot nose and a scarf. Snowball fights erupted spontaneously, filling the air with laughter and playful shouts. We even managed to lie down and make snow angels, adding to the magic of the day.
We took countless photos and videos, wanting to capture every moment of our snowy adventure. The backdrop of snow-covered trees and mountains made every picture look spectacular. By the end of the day, we were all exhausted but immensely satisfied. Our cheeks were rosy from the cold, and our hearts were full from all the fun and family bonding.
As the afternoon wore on and the wind started to pick up, making the air even colder, we decided it was time to head back. Packing up our gear, we made our way back to our car, tired but happy. The drive back to Cooma was quiet, with everyone reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Being able to spend the day at Perisher and toboggan as we had planned made the trip truly worthwhile. It was a day filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. We can’t wait to plan our next snow trip—Perisher Valley, we’ll be back!
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