Friday before the long weekend arrived and the first group to head up to Berri met at the bakery at Mt Barker. With everyone there and good weather we took off after coffee and donuts for Berri via Murray Bridge, Karoonda and Loxton. A smooth run with next to no traffic.

The trip went without issues and we rolled up at the Berri Riverside caravan park and found our rooms at the superb Group Stay Accommodation complex that they have there. It’s the same place as last year because the Group Stay works so well for a club like ours.
We settled in and waited for others to arrive from Adelaide, but many were held up due to a serious road accident on the highway North out of Adelaide. That evening, we walked / limped down to the Berri Hotel for dinner. Everyone was relaxed, happy and enjoying themselves. I entertained Rod and Jenny with another one of my “Animal Hard Luck Stories” and the scene was set for another great CCSA weekend away.

Saturday morning came and once everyone rose and cooked their own eggs and bacon, we were off to Loxton for a look around the Loxton Village or a coffee in town. It was great to see Kathy S brother Phil turn up with fellow club member Darle in Darles tough looking Black ‘82 C3. The guys stayed with us for a cruise up towards Glossop and around Lake Bonney and into Barmera. We wandered around a ute car show and band playing in the main street and even checked out sheep dog trials on the oval. None of the dogs were found guilty.

Everyone did their own thing and headed back to the caravan park in their own time. Most had a drink or two, relaxed laughed and a big group wandered over to the new amazing mini golf course they have built since last year at the park. From the distance it sounded like a group of cackling kids playing but all in good spirits – all except for the way Karen tried her best to double Robs score at every hole. If in doubt, cheat.

That night, Ruthie had organised with the local fish and chips shop to do a mass delivery of, umm – you guessed it - fish and chips. This was a winner, food was spot on, we didn’t have to drive (thankfully), and we were able to utilise the facilities of the Group Stay. We watched the Crows play that night on the big TV and this in itself, was entertaining to hear the comments and expert footy advice being dished out. The vibe was great and we were havin’ fun. Which is what it’s all about! The other highlight was, Jim and Catherine came up for the evening. Bloody awesome to see Jim up and about after a stint in hospital.

Sunday, we headed off for Renmark. Stopped off at the Mallee Estate Winery for a private guided tour of the winery by one of the owners - Jim. We finished off with a tasting and a few purchases and cruised into town for lunch at the Renmark Hotel.
That evening back at Base Camp One, Ruthie and the girls got to work on our dinner. Cooked chickens, roast lamb and beef and veggies. They done an amazing job. After dinner, we announced the winners of the golf tournament (Congrats Dale & Gary), another lollie guessing game organised by Catherine (Congrats Alan L and Jenny – Thanks for sharing) and then we played a game which I don’t know how to describe. Best to check that out on the clubs Facebook site.

All up, everyone who came along were “winners”. A fun yet relaxing weekend was had by all. It’s all booked in to do it again next year. Stay tuned.

Write Up by Stuart Van Doorn