South Coast Beach Christmas

02 December 2019 / Story by Brian Clayton Photos by Anda Clayton

For some, the Xmas celebrations could not start soon enough. Even though the South Coast celebration was arranged over a weekend, some people chose to go a day earlier to better sample the delights of the NSW South Coast.

Expected were guests from the South Coast chapter as well as Canberra, Sydney and Illawarra chapters, a real gathering of the MX5 clan and a good example of the camaraderie which exists within our great club.

The main body of guests arrived around lunch time at the Kioloa Holiday Park and settled into their cabins. The cabins surrounded the BBQ area and picnic tables and soon the group was gathered for a picnic lunch. This was followed by a leisurely walk on the beach or a swim for some and a spot of cricket watching for others.

We reassembled for “fivesies” with the almost mandatory glass of something and nibbles. While a walk to the restaurant was initially proposed, the onset of showers caused a change of plan and all drove the short distance to dinner. The local restaurant has gained a reputation for the quality of its food, prepared by a local Belgian chef. There was some initial delay before dinner was served but the wait proved worthwhile and all enjoyed a lovely dinner.

At the break between main and dessert a presentation was made to our inaugural Member of the Year, Bob Downing. Bob and his wife Linda have been a regular attendees at monthly meetings and club runs and in contributing ideas for club activities. A well-deserved award, congratulations Bob.

After dinner we returned to our cabins for the night with a late-night coffee for some, an early bed for others.

Bright and early the next morning a group set off for a brisk walk along the beach, returning for a BBQ breakfast. Sausages, bacon, eggs, mushrooms, tomatoes, fruit juice all on the menu and prepared by a willing group of MX5 volunteers.

After a hearty breakfast it was time for farewells and the group made their way home after a great start to the Xmas season.