The children set off from Columba with their teddy bears for a day full of surprises, adventure and endless fun. After passing over our beautifully decorated tickets to the driver, we had a quick and bumpy bus ride until we reached our destination. Finestere is a beautiful venue, well set up to entertain and capture the attention of both adults and children.

After the most delicious bear-themed morning tea, the children had bundles of laughter rotating around stations led by three former Year 0-1 Columba students, Harriet and Guy Byfield and Zara Turner. The children enjoyed old-time party games including tug of war, quoits, bean bag throwing, egg and spoon races, bulls eye, croquet, an obstacle challenge wearing Granny’s bloomers and of course, pinning the tail on Eeyore. It wasn’t long before Guy was on the tractor and trailer taking groups of children for rides. We took turns feeding the bleating lambs and the children even let the horses eat little willow branches from their hands...and they all still have ten fingers!

Next it was a relaxing picnic on the lawn with mums, dads and caregivers. After another short play, it was time for the great treasure hunt through an enchanted garden, collecting presents for everyone!

Once all the presents were found, we met inside by the fireplace. Students were given their own special rosette, a hand painted Christmas bag filled with goodies and all the beautifully decorated presents were opened. Excitement was bursting! Finally, at the end of the day, we had a swing at a bee piñata filled with even more tasty treats.

A special thank you goes to Justine Byfield and her family for sharing their beautiful property with us. The time and effort gone into setting up engaging activities for the students, the attention to detail in hand crafted decorations displayed throughout the venue and the individualised gifts, was second to none.

I would also like to thank Amy Columb for leading the Year 0-1 parents, making this day a fairy tale to remember. Finally, the last thank you goes to Nicolette North for her expert wrapping of gifts found on the treasure hunt in the 100-Acre Wood.

The children were thoroughly spoiled and will have fond memories of this magical day for years to come.