Several days ago, I read a post on Facebook that the Altona Veterinary Clinic is holding an open house today to celebrate the completion of its renovations. Then I forgot about it.
Today I decided to stay at home to prepare for an impending exam while my wife brought my daughter for her swimming lessons. But my son insisted on going out. It was then that I remembered about this open house which runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
My wife had driven away the car and the train was not running today. It was not running yesterday either and people were complaining because yesterday was the last day of the Spring Horseracing Carnival and many people were also flocking to Werribee Park for the Harvest Festival over the weekend.
We took a 40 minutes walk from my place to the Clinic. I had to carry my son a few times as he was easily tired due to his age. However, he was overjoyed at seeing the animal farm upon arriving. This animal farm is a pretty good one as it has a large variety of animals.
 |
 |
 |
 |
There were also not many people. This means there is no need to queue and we can spend as long as we wish in the animal farm. Perhaps, the absence of trains has deterred people from visiting. Or perhaps, the warm weather has lured people to the beach. Or perhaps, the promotion is not effective in informing people of such an activity.
Reptile Education Victoria Bus
|
Albino Python
|
Baby alligator
|
Lizard
|
I also feel the Reptile Bus is a great highlight and very well-equipped. Though it may appear like an ordinary bus from the outside, there is another world inside. A central aisle on board the bus brings visitors face to face with reptiles enclosed within transparent chambers. These include many types of snakes, lizards as well as a baby alligator. You can even pose for a photo with a lizard on your shoulder or palm.
 |
 |
There was also a man who dressed up as a cartoon figure (not sure what that is) who kept children entertained. Though there is no music, I could see him doing the distinctive Gangnam Style dance steps.
I phoned my wife, informing her of this activity and our location. By the time they reached the Clinic, the Reptile Bus had left. But they were still able to take part in other activities, including the Face Painting and the Sausage Sizzle.
