The Funny Farm

No, actually Funky Farm.

My former Tradie Brother, now working in a caring position, had two tenants, one in the self contained granny flat at the back of house and another who had a bedroom in the house. The latter, Keiran, died suddenly in his bed. My brother found him the next morning, very dead, at the age of 62. Brother was shattered. For him it was nearly like losing a partner. We all knew Keiran, and he helped out at family events, but always stayed in the background.

He left his superannuation to my brother. Kieran's ex wife disputed the will, and was paid I think $10,000 'fuck off' money. Separately Kieran stipulated that a certain percentage of funds from his estate was to go to animal charities. My brother has distributed the money, and an amount went to Funky Farm. The owner said, Mate; come any time for one year and bring along your family. 

You have to book and I was invited, along with my other brother, who forgot and was a no show, Hippie Niece, her partner and their four children. My brother had already taken two other family groups.

It was one hour's drive away and I left home at 8.30 Sunday morning past. I planned to stop off on the way and eat one of my meals on wheels sandwiches and find coffee. There was no where along the way to stop for coffee and to relax, so I was a bit early at the venue. Brother arrived soon after with Dog in tow. Then at the last minute, but they made it, so did Hippie Niece and her crew. 

My arthritic pain was at its worst, as it usually is in the morning, but nevertheless, I really enjoyed the guided tour that lasted about 1.40. 

Mein host and guide is a former horse jockey. The history of the park, his connection with horses, and the early history when there was and still is a focus on people with disabilities can be found on the website I linked to above. I learnt a bit I didn't know about wombats. Most of the animals and birds have come from zoos and people who no longer wanted troublesome pets. 

This doesn't look like a dingo I know about, but apparently it is an alpine dingo, with thick fur to keep it warm. I learnt that there is little connection between dingos and dogs. They are physically very different and the dingo more closely related to the Asian wolf. Quite fascinating. 

This is closer to the dingo I know, but it has a long coat too.

A young freshwater crocodile. They are much smaller than salt water crocodiles, and less aggressive, but there is not a reason to feel safe in their company. 

A rosella? 

I believe this is a horny dragon. We saw water dragons too.

Feeding a wallaby.

Kangaroos, wallabies and emu roam freely. 

The cassowary is the most dangerous bird in the world. If you come across one, flee! They are only found in the northern tropical areas of Australia.

Look at the size of its feet. They can rip you to shreds. 

This particular emu was amusing. 

A young fresh water crocodile. Many of the animals at the park are rescue animal from idiots who got drunk one night and ordered a creature to be delivered to their home, only to discover their choice was troublesome. 

A blue tongue lizard, friendly lizards. 

Maybe this is a frill necked lizard. 

After the tour I visited the nearest shopping area, Hastings, which is also a working port and a mooring for pleasure craft. I found a cafe for sustenance and bought a couple of things at the supermarket. Then I was homeward bound, arriving about 1.30.