I had the absolute pleasure of attending an overnight famil with Brisbane PA Network, which was co-hosted by Dorsett Hotel and Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. I would not have thought to team these two entities together, but oh, what magic they created.

CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE SANCTUARY: I had the pleasure of staying at the Dorsett Hotel and it was an incredible experience from start to finish. (Link to review below).

Once we checked into Dorsett, we were met by Andrea Molnar, who was warm, engaging, and knowledgeable, and she delivered a wonderful experience. We took a shuttle bus from Dorsett to Currumbin Wildlife Centre and out time was nothing short of amazing. We were given candle lanterns to make our way up to Currumbin Homestead, where we were greeted by a string trio. The ambiance created by the string trio was met with stunning candlelight on a beautifully laid table, making for a truly memorable evening. The meal was perhaps the best meal I have ever experienced, sumptuous! Well balance palette of food and drinks, amidst the backdrop of kangaroos and emus!

After dinner, we sat around the campfire and enjoyed another beverage under the stars.

The next morning, we returned to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, where the day's activities were diverse and engaging. We we were treated with another a sumptuous meal, a decadent hot breakfast right next to the koala enclosure. As we enjoyed the delicious meal, we learned about the koala sanctuary from knowledgeable guides. The setting was perfect, allowing us to see the koalas up close while savoring our breakfast. We even had the chance to pat a few koalas, which was an unforgettable experience. After breakfast, we had the opportunity to take personal photos with Emily the koala, adding a special touch to our visit.

Followed by the Indigenous cultural experience, which was particularly enlightening; we received an engaging history of the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS) as well as some beautiful, heartwarming Dreamtime stories about the animals in the sanctuary. These stories offered a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural significance and history of the native wildlife.

Followed by Wild Skies bird display was a spectacular highlight, featuring stunning bird life flying overhead. It was entertaining, enlightening, and honestly spectacular to see these magnificent creatures up close.

We then stopped by the Animal Rescue Centre to hear how CWS is leading on incredible work

• healing of cracked turtle shells
• regrowing birds flight wings

Next stop, Outback Springs, we had the chance to meet some farm animals and a few creepy crawlies too! It was a delightful experience, made even better by enjoying a billy-boiled herbal tea.

We then returned to Currumbin Homestead, this time to sit on the outdoor deck, enjoying the idyllic setting and incredible food. The personalised care for those with dietary requirements was commendable, ensuring that everyone had a delicious and satisfying meal.

We also received a delightful gift bag including a Currumbin wildlife kangaroo, plantable post-it notes, a drink bottle, and a pen.

A visit to Currumbin Wildlife Centre is an absolute must for anyone in the area! I can honestly say every team member that we encountered could not do enough to ensure guests were well looked after. There is a real sense of family amongst the team that shines through.

To spend time in nature, with animals, in their own safe space. To see the work those so dedicated to the protection of animals fills ones cup completing!

The combination of the two entities together made or a truly spectacular weekend, where our every need was met and some! This style of package could work well for large groups, corporate events, wedding reception groups - the sky is the limit, where you really want to impress.