Every team wants to beat the World Champions (Rugby), and so it happened to be the case even though it was in December, where the Barbarians beat them convincingly. It was a great rugby game. I managed to “Convince a group of friends (and Brother) to come and watch at my Pad”; same story – cold beers, swimming-pool, and a BBQ afterwards cooked by my very self, and not too shabby either. Great Fun, and many hangovers the next day!

Good to see that GB is keeping GB “Safe” by letting a whole database of people’s details (20 Million) be sent by Normal Mail and then get “lost”. And these people run the country? Riots in France as well as strikes; strikes in Germany, and over here there’s the election battle to run for ANC President next week (December), who will in turn become the next President of the country. Could be fun! Australians get rid of JH, as he was doing too well with the Economy, and had been in too long, so time for a change! Pakistan keeping us all motivated to watch Sky News, and then there’s the story of a Parrot falling in love with a Sailor!

Down here in the Bunker we did have a nice splashing of rain; it has been threatening to do it again but lots of hot air and no action (same as…well you know who). Many congratulations to James and Frances who tied the knot here at Garonga on the sleep out deck. Also to all the honeymooners who came out and then went on to such fantastic places as Seychelles, Mauritius, Mozambique by the sea – almost worth getting married for! Very jealous. Also a warm welcome back to Michel and Patrizia (and thanks for your support), Dennis and Patricia (Sorry to have missed you), and my brother and Emma, who brought a gang over and had a great time including watching the special event at the top. Very amusing but bloody sore on the head and liver (assuming there is one still there somewhere!). We had a number of Operators coming over to check us out, and so a welcome to Diek and Sandra, Simon from Cox and Kings (thanks for your support), David from Key 2 (thanks also), Arista and Rachel from Audley Travel ( huge thanks for all the bookings), and Tracy and Felicity ( a new company from Africa Beckons). Last but by no means least Richard and Janet who stayed here for 2 weeks. You were great company and we miss you both!

There were a few brave souls who tried the sleep out, but to be honest the weather has been very temperamental. The Bush Bath has been out of action due to relocation. It is now up and running and looking fantastic. Picnics as always are very popular, as it is so relaxing and restful up in the tree.

Out there in the real Bush the Safari teams are doing some miracles. The Leopard and cubs is being spotted more frequently now. The sightings have been excellent. Many of Lions, Ellies, the Rhinos and also The Cheetah.. Quite a few takers for walks as well as there have been some cool days.

Koren and her team of Chefettes have been doing very well indeed in producing excellent meals. More guests are trying the health option menus which are in the room folders; a bit of a respite from those Truckers Breakfasts. Anyway a recipe will follow.

I was away at the World Travel market Show in London – a huge event in Docklands. Great catching up with so  many friends and supporters. I think I’ll leave that for another few years. Classic Safari Camps of Africa Stand though was great and very well located and so many people did come in. It makes a big difference being one small camp amongst so many but being part of such a prestigious organisation. Thanks to Christine for organizing it so well and to Caroline for manning the Stand. Before the show I just had to do the traditional and catch up with some old (not so old actually ) Army Chums and go out for a traditional Carvery Dinner at Simpson's In the Strand. Brilliant!

Little Garonga is practically finished and looking fantastic. Will have some images in January 08.

Well, that’s about it really for this year (next Newsletter will be in the beginning of January 08). It’s gone far too fast! I wish you all the best, most especially to our Guests who have been and gone, our Supporters from all over, and to you who suffer this newsletter!! Have a great Xmas; put loads of pounds on, and don’t even bother thinking of trying to take them off in 08!

Garonga is supporting the Charity Organisation “Help For Heroes” which assists our  Servicemen and Women who have been wounded in action  in Afghanistan and Iraq. They are doing a superb job under incredible conditions and not being given the support by a very uncaring and ungrateful Government. Think of our Troops over there, and support them. Please consider donating to www.helpforheroes.org.uk. They volunteer to be over there in order to protect us at home!

Take Care and all the very best from the “G” Team.
Bernie