The Cairns based tourism network club appropriately named SKAL came to Port Douglas yesterday (Oct 14th) for their annual visit.

SKÅL is the only international organisation that brings together all branches of the travel and tourism industry.  Indeed it is the world’s largest travel and tourism association.  Representing the industry’s managers and executives, SKÅL members meet at a local, national and international level, in an environment of friendship, to discuss subjects of a common nature and interest.

SEE THE HILARIOUS SKAL SUMO VIDEO >>> 

For this visit, the iconic Salsa Bar and Grill was the chosen venue to host this very special luncheon.  In fact the day had started much earlier at the Mirage Country Club where some thirty members tried valiantly to play a round of golf from 8am despite the best attempts of torrential rain to spoil their fun. 

Only a handful of golfers abandoned their rounds and were duly fined $2 in the time honoured way by the two 'merciless' Fine Masters, Charles Woodward and Ron Livingstone when the official luncheon was in full swing.  Actually the standard practice is that any of the slightest infringements result in the 'ting' of a $2 coin hitting the bottom of the fine bucket which was ably circulated by the ever eager Gaye Scott from The 20/20 Group.

2010 Cairns SKÅL  President, Carmel Angelino from Reflections Accommodation in Port Douglas MC'd the introduction of guests which included some international friends from Canada, USA and South Africa who were all presented with a bottle of Shiraz and Riesling from the newly released Port Douglas Heritage Wine Series from Clare Valley, SA.

The superb three course luncheon was barely finished when an amazing exhibition of traditional Sumo wrestling was sprung upon an astonished assembly. 

Needless to say the display defies description, however we captured it on video and have attached the full encounter for your delight.  The combatants are well known Skalleagues 'George Humphliesan' and 'Geoffley Flemingsan' and refereed by Pauline 'Geishsa' Smith.  For the record the match apparently ended in an honourable draw.

Michael 'Woody' Woodward from Wildlife Habitat then performed his regular 'Heads and Tails' duty for the last time before he goes off travelling.  This opens up an opportunity for a new SKÅL  member to take control of this vital component of each SKÅL    luncheon.  In the meantime we wish 'Woody' a safe trip and look forward to him returning with stories of his adventure around the world.

The party moved on from Salsa to the Central and Court House Hotels where more fluid networking was enjoyed until the Quicksilver supplied transport arrived late afternoon to take the Cairns members back home.

An excellent day was enjoyed by all.  So only one thing to be said before we conclude........SKAL!