We had 12 wonderful days on the Gold Coast, staying at the Outriggers Resort in Coolangatta. However, getting there was an experience in itself! We carried 8 large pieces of luggage which included a double stroller, Sam's walker, feeding pump, oxygen bottles, as well as our luggage bags! On the plane Sam had to have oxygen so we were escorted onto the plane before anyone else to have it set up. Michelle’s mum, Judy, also came along with us to help us with all the children.

The staff at Qantas were magnificent. We had a trouble free 2 and a half hour flight to Coolangatta Airport.

On arrival at Coolangatta we picked up our Toyota Tarago from Budget Rentals and loaded the van with 6 people and 8 large pieces of luggage. It was a sight to behold! We found our accomodation and settled in to our 13th floor, 3 bedroom self contained apartment on Coolangatta beach.

We opened the door of our apartment to see 12 beautiful balloons floating to the ceiling which were sent by Auntie CJ

The staff at the Outrigger Resort were likewise brilliant-they couldn't do enough for us.

In the next few days we had visits from Michelle's brother Matthew, my mum Margaret, and a surprise visit by Michelle's dad Russell.

We had a wonderful time as a family there on the Gold Coast. The weather was perfect, 25 degrees and sunny most days. We spent our days taking long walks along the beach pushing Sam and Charlie in their double stroller, and visiting the various theme parks.

Michelle and I even managed a game of golf at the prestigious "Lakes Resort" golf course. The game was given to us by some friends of ours in Adelaide.

The absolute highlight however was the day we spent at Byron Bay. If there could have been a heaven on earth it was Byron Bay! We travelled there with our three special visitors. The weather was perfect, the water warm. and the scenery breathtaking. I think everyone came home thinking that was a very special day! The children, especially Sam loved it.