Whilst our story doesn't really start here, this is the first day of our trek. From the Central Coast to Torquay is quite a journey, meant that the alarm went off at 5.15am. It might have been too early, but I wasn't taking any chances on the peak hour traffic during the commute and making sure I was there to greet my team at the airport.
Tip 1: Give all your team a VERY bright coloured tie to put on their bags. Any inexpensive cotton material will do. It means that all your luggage is identifiable and no matter who is nearest to the luggage conveyor belt they will know that its someones from your group.
Tip 2: Make sure the kids pack a lunch or snacks. Even if your arrival at your destination is scheduled, flight delays, problems at the minibus check in line etc, will mean that they won't get 'hangry'
After a 5 min delay due to the roof storage lock not functioning, we made it to the airport in plenty of time. This meant that I could speak to the check in about how we could get the group through the quickest. Including getting myself and coach checked in and luggage out so there was one less thing to cart around.
The team starts to arrive, its VERY exciting and everyone looks fabulous. Beautifully the same. Greeted with many warm hugs and big grins, it was time to make sure that the girls knew it was important to their parents that they allow them all to have a group photo. They groaned through the grins as the parents put on a display that professional paparazzi would be jealous of.
Security check points were a breeze, and then on to pick up some last minute snacks and sustenance before we boarded the plane. A late take off and a slow trip meant for a later arrival time in Melbourne airport.
First stop at the airport - toilets............
Now off to baggage claim, and the luggage located with ease (due to Tip 1). Bus and car hire counter looked like it was going to get hairy, but fortunately after a couple of minutes our reservation was located and we packed in like sardines into a minibus and car.
Tip 3: If you can get a minivan or station wagon for luggage, that would be a great idea as when you are away for 10 days, the bags are big, but the luggage space in minibuses are non existent.
The girls are hungry and decide to have their packed lunch as our delays have meant that we are still an hour from the accommodation and any signs of more food.
The house was a great idea as we quickly allocated rooms and the girls got their first chance to check out the lay of the land. We were in the middle of the surf culture at Torquay, and walking distance to the beach and shops.
After sorting out hot water and power issues we were finally settled and the girls wasted no time christening the dining table with a game of 'Spoons'. The squeals from the enjoyment would have probably been heard back in NSW.
Finally our first chance to check out our playing surface for the first time as we jumped in the bus and headed to Geelong Arena. Wow what a cool place that is. Greeted by the lovely Julia who was on hand to greet us and make us feel welcome.
Note to self: Booking training sessions around dinner time is not a good idea.
When we got home it was all systems go for dinner. A big Spag Bol was the order of the day and I couldn't cook it fast enough. The girls were awesome though and demonstrated great patience as I worked out cooking in someone else's kitchen. After some burnt pasta and spagetti sauce strewn over one end of the kitchen to the other, dinner is served. Phew, glad that's out of the way and know that all the appliances in the kitchen work.
The girls chill a bit then off to bed, they look so tired, but not many are willing to admit they are.
All ready to sleep and do it all again tomorrow.
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