The extended Saturday 24th to Sunday 25th May 2025 weekend at Atkinsons Dam Scout Camp gave us the perfect weather for our 2nd Annual "May-be Christmas" gathering. Wind free balmy, sunny days as only Queensland can produce. A little cooler at night to make the huge fires enjoyable, with thanks to local wood chopping events for bountiful supplies of good hardwood. We all camped in the upper sites as weeks of heavy rain made for boggy conditions closer to the very full (spilling) dam. Thanks to Wayne and the local scout group for allowing us to once again set up in this great space.

We welcomed 2 new couples - Bruce and Lyndel (with grand old lady dog Bella) and Pom and Sharon.

On a weekend with 3 planned community meals (and a bonus last night dinner for the stayers) all were most enjoyable. We kicked off on Friday night with "Blokes Bring It" where the ladies relaxed and dishes are cooked up and presented by the males. A gourmet range of enjoyable proteins, with 3 notables all vying for the best sausages! Alistair's South African Boerowers were a favourite. Add to this excellent Pastas, curries,and several asian dishes, it was fine dining in the bush. Thanks guys.

Saturday is all about MayBe - and sites sparkling with tinsel and lights, most campers donned their Christmas gear and all were into preparation for our 3 course feast. It did not disappoint - Yummy starters, Traditional glazed ham, roast lamb and all the sides, with room left for excellent afters. A somewhat raucous round of Secret Santa completed our afternoon with the flavoured honeys being the most stolen goods.

What better Sunday Lunch than fresh breads from the bakery - many hands buttered and flavoured our ham sammies with mustards, relishes and tomatoes. It all went down a treat.

Special shoutouts to:
Kathleen, for her Xmas Outfit from a local charity shop, enhanced by interesting headgear, and the amazing scones cooked on the barby.
To Lindsey, wood chopper/fire tender extraordinaire.
And the best secret sprung on us all: Ian and Di went for a drive, returned with the beautiful Shylo, the cutest 6 month old pup, hesitant for a day, then happily enjoying racing up and down the foreshore with Djinda, Honey and Bella.

This year the Perpetual Spirit of May-be Award was presented to Ian and Di. With such a wonderful bunch of fellow campers, choosing the recipients of the trophy is a challenge. Thanks to everyone for making this concept for a weekend work so very well.

Yours Robyn and Mike