A week in Sunny QLD
Six clients from Orana’s Loxton Accommodation Service recently had a whirlwind holiday in Queensland with Service Manager Karen and Client Coach Dakota.
With a jam packed itinerary, this adventurous group set out for eight days of fun and new experiences. Each day was packed with activities that would help the group develop social skills, gain new experiences, and form a stronger bond.
Staying in an AirBnB along the Gold Coast, the group were situated in the perfect spot between the beach and local attractions.
“After an early morning start and a bumpy first day, we had a fantastic trip!” Said Karen.
The first day began with an early morning flight from Adelaide, followed by dinner at Mermaid Waters Tavern.
On day two, the group visited Warner Brothers Movie World, where they met the stars of popular movies such as Madagascar, The Wizard of Oz, and Batman.
The park is filled with fun entertainment and attractions including roller coasters, theatre shows and immersive environments.
The group was welcomed at Paradise Country Farm on the morning of day three. The farm provided a great insight into country Australia and its native animals. In addition, the group witnessed entertaining horse riding, opal mining, and stockman demonstrations.
The afternoon was spent at Sea World getting up close and personal with water animals. The group dove below the surface to view the exhibits of sea jellies, rays, sharks, polar bears, turtles, tropical fish and seals.
“I had the best holiday, my favourite part was standing at the Surfers Paradise sign at the beach – the food was also fantastic. We were very spoilt while away.” Said Ashleigh.
On the fourth day, the group went to Dreamworld, which has slides, rides, and wildlife all in one location.
On day five, the group boarded the AquaDuck, Queensland’s first river cruise city tour! With live commentary on board, it’s a unique way of seeing the sites and natural wildlife along the Gold Coast Canal.
The group also visited the extraordinary Australian Outback Spectacular, an arena show featuring animals and immersive technology to tell the story of two Aussie farmers. The show also included a three course dinner.
On day six, the group went to the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum, home to over 300 exhibits and artefacts that are all crazy, exciting and mostly immersive.
The group spent their final day in Queensland at the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where they enjoyed interactive exhibits and wildlife encounters with native Australian animals.
This fantastic week long holiday proved to be a great trip for everyone. Over the course of seven days, the group walked 35 kms and carried nearly 60 kgs of luggage!
“We couldn’t ask for better weather, it was perfect! The clients had a ball! Hopefully next year we can venture up to Cairns” said Karen.
A holiday or getaway is an excellent way to improve social and independence skills, as well as to meet and make new friends.
