Outback Birthday Bear Misses the Show

It was Bill's birthday yesterday and his choice of venue for our birthday group was the Australian Outback Spectacular show and dinner. Unfortunately, Birthday Bear wasn't allowed to come, he had to wait to join us when we had supper at our place after the show. For those who are not familiar with our birthday group, it started as a way to keep in touch with retired friends and spouses from the staff of Kuraby State School. Instead of giving presents each birthday we pass a bear around, but each time it must be dressed differently to reflect the interests of the recipient. We arrived early to pick up tickets and then all visitors were corralled in a hall and entertained with bush songs while we waited for the doors to open. There were photos, drinks and memorabilia on sale.

We opted for a silly photo. Everyone is given a stockman's hat with either a red or yellow band to indicate which side of the arena to sit, and which station we belonged to.

Bill and me with George waiting for the show to start in front of the horse stables. The horses were magnificent animals and so well cared for. No photography allowed in the show.

The show and meal was very good. We witnessed a multitude of riding skills, an incite into station life and the early pioneers. We listened to bush ballads watched sheepdog mustering and wild colt breaking. We cheered for our station/team in the pig races, camel races, and desert boat races. We saw Honda Quads verse horses in a time trial around an obstacle course and many more wonderful acts. We all enjoyed ourselves immensely. Then we all came home to find ..........

...that Ann had dressed Birthday Bear as a stockman on his horse for Bill. I had a senior moment and forgot to use a flash so pics not so good.

Bear on his horse, which has it's head in the chaff bag. (or is it a web brush?)

Bill had a happy birthday.

Bear has his shotgun at the ready. He looks smart in his jeans and checked shirt. Ann and George did a great job.

Bill cooked his own birthday apricot pie, He's a good bloke.

Paul, Bill, George, Mary, Helen and Ann. We miss Chris and Bob who are working their way around Australia actually they could be swimming around at the moment as they are in the flooded area of Queensland.