Those club members that attended the camping weekend on the Gold Coast Hinterland once again had a fabulous time. The Coolangatta Pet Motel and Tailwaggers Rainforest Retreat is such a relaxing and enjoyable place for a time away with your favourite four legged companions. With no crowds (except when we all get together in the off leash area) and the peace and quiet of the rainforest, everyone has a thoroughly grand time.

A couple of the beagles were a little uneasy to begin with but thanks to Trish Allen kindly introducing them to a calming spray and treatment, they soon relaxed and enjoyed their time. Tilley, who was very shy and reserved to begin with, once she had a dose of the DAP spray, became relaxed and enjoyed the time immensely. Some might say they created a monster, as she could be seen running and chasing the others like she had never done before. It was great to see all the beagles able to enjoy themselves and play as a pack all weekend.

After lunch we took on the walk through the edge of the rainforest, along the cattle track. While the beagles were very keen at the beginning of the trek, heartbreak hill soon slowed us all down. The regulars to the camping weekend now use the very useful shortcut back to the camp – the one that has four wheels and a chauffeur.

Happy hour saw the beagles enjoying the afternoon and a little bonus treat when some of the two-legged campers nibbles accidentally fell on the ground. That occupied the beagle for the next 10 minutes.

Tony, then helped out with the beagles’ exercises by taking them for a few laps around the park with them chasing after his bike. It’s a good thing that the camp has no close neighbours. I’ll be taking my ear muffs next time!!

Those who were attending the camping weekend for the first time, soon found out why we keep going back to Coolangatta. Although quite warm on the coast at ground level, the altitude on the hinterland always makes for a much cooler time, with jumpers the order of the nights.

A big thanks must go to our host for the weekend, Tony Bulke, who not only made us feel relaxed and welcome, he also provided the dinner for us all on Saturday night. We all appreciate his support for the club. Thanks also go to Geoff and Lezlie Panting, who cooked up the delicious spread we enjoyed.

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