Merfest for Mer's of Australia!

[Fifi Tigg]

We have been discussing on Facebook that we all should pick a date for next Jan 2016 and all meet up for a long weekend! Mizuko suggested the Mariot hotel on the Gold Coast because it has an artificial reef in their salt water pool!
Its certainly do able for my family if I start saving now! But we need to lock in dates :D
Or maybe we could all go to Bali? Lol

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Can't afford Bali.:cry:I can if its the Gold Coast...

Marriot is nice. I googled it. Has affordable rates too for singles! So I'm in!

My weekends are usually set just for me time. So any long or regular weekend, I'm cool with it.

[Mer-Crazy]

I'm in! I am so in! I am 100% in!

[Fifi Tigg]

How about the 15th to the 17th of Jan so it's a few weeks after Christmas and a few weeks before school starts?

[Mer-Crazy]

Whenever sounds fine with me! :D Also, since I'm local to the area I'm more than happy to do anything I can to help if need be.

[Fifi Tigg]

Whenever sounds fine with me! :D Also, since I'm local to the area I'm more than happy to do anything I can to help if need be.
Would you be kind enough to find out what their conditions are with the artificial reef; like can you swim in a tail their and is it only specific times you can swim etc etc :)

[Mer-Crazy]

I would be happy to ask, though it may have to wait until the weekend if that's alright? It's about an hour drive from where I live at the moment, though I'm going to be moving soon even then it will still be about an hours drive haha. That way we can also see if there are any other questions you'd like me to ask. Or I could just call them on the phone... that works too.

Could you give me a link to the website just so I'm sure I call the right place?

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Yay! That's a week before my birthday! I don't expect pressies but just the opportunity to meet all the mers would be a fantastic present!

I may need a ride from the airport to hotel. I'll have check if there are shuttle buses to the hotel, but if that's the case, who can pick me up then?

For those of us, taking plane rides, maybe we can book the same flight or have our flights so that we arrive around the same time. We can go to the hotel together, I'll pay for my share of cab fare, or put in for petrol if you're hiring a car...

[Fifi Tigg]

https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xap1/t31.0-8/10917783_10153574718164119_1223537298693030471_o.j pg

[Fifi Tigg]

I would be happy to ask, though it may have to wait until the weekend if that's alright? It's about an hour drive from where I live at the moment, though I'm going to be moving soon even then it will still be about an hours drive haha. That way we can also see if there are any other questions you'd like me to ask. Or I could just call them on the phone... that works too.

Could you give me a link to the website just so I'm sure I call the right place?
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/oolsp-surfers-paradise-marriott-resort-and-spa/

[Mermaid Jaffa]

2016 right? Not immediately...

[Mer-Crazy]

Yay! That's a week before my birthday! I don't expect pressies but just the opportunity to meet all the mers would be a fantastic present!

I may need a ride from the airport to hotel. I'll have check if there are shuttle buses to the hotel, but if that's the case, who can pick me up then?

For those of us, taking plane rides, maybe we can book the same flight or have our flights so that we arrive around the same time. We can go to the hotel together, I'll pay for my share of cab fare, or put in for petrol if you're hiring a car...
Gold Coast Airport - OOL
Airport Phone: +61 7 5589 1100
Hotel direction: 14.2 miles NW

This hotel does not provide shuttle service.


Alternate transportation: Hughes Limousines; fee: 82 AUD (one way) ;reservation required
Bus service, fee: 19 AUD (one way)
Estimated taxi fare: 65 AUD (one way)

That was on their website :)

Also yes 2016

[Mermaid Jaffa]

The bus service sounds reasonable.

[-Annwyn-]

Yes, I'm totally in! But not Bali. Gold Coast sounds awesome! Let's do this! Let's make this happen!

[Fifi Tigg]

:yay:
ok let's all decide on dates so we can book our rooms in advance because I'm sure that time of year it will book quickly!

[Fifi Tigg]

I think if we just keep it simple as in stay for the weekend, meet up, swim, chat, dinner, photoshoot, swim and chat some more?

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Would love too but have no money to book or do anything yet! Also have no tail and wont have the cash for a silicone tail yet don't even have a flipper yet as can't afford it! But would love to go! Ugh damn it! Am also trying to set up a Jewellery Making business online but no mermaid stuff yet! Hopefully I can still show it off here? But hopefully I can do it as I would so love too but then there goes my savings towards a tail when I can get them too ugh damn it! Sounds like so much fun!

[Mer-Crazy]

Okay so after a bunch of tries (I've figured out that my phone microphone isn't working) I managed to get hold of the place. The lady I spoke to said there should be no problem at all with us taking tails out onto the artificial reef there (though I did forget to ask about the pool sorry) and that it's open from 6am to 10pm so woo hoo night swims!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Alright if I can get a tail I am going to aim to save to go to this as I really want too! SO hope I can anyway and hopefully I can get a tail sometime soon too! At least a fabric one with monofin anyway as I am feeling a little left out and want a tail so bad lol :)

[Mer-Crazy]

On another note would people be up for sharing rooms to minimise costs? Each room has the option of 2 double beds so at least 2 people could share if they wanted (up to 4 if it was 2 couples and they wanted to of course)

[Mermaid Amelia]

Hey I'm totally in but also dont have enough money to book anything right now.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Amelia]

It would also be great if we could book a function room or something and have a big party together


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Would love too but have no money to book or do anything yet! Also have no tail and wont have the cash for a silicone tail yet don't even have a flipper yet as can't afford it! But would love to go! Ugh damn it! Am also trying to set up a Jewellery Making business online but no mermaid stuff yet! Hopefully I can still show it off here? But hopefully I can do it as I would so love too but then there goes my savings towards a tail when I can get them too ugh damn it! Sounds like so much fun!

Well you can just save up to come along and food stuff. I can bring a spare fabric tail or two and a spare fin. Don't know which spare fin yet, most likely the foil, which I am receiving soon. I got a S size foil, fits ladies shoe size 6-9.

If you're interested, I'm selling my old Merfin. You can find details here.
http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?9712-Selling-Pre-Loved-MerFin-Adult-S

I can't book mine just yet. My cousin's wedding takes precedence over this. And he's not set a date, all we were told was, "Sometime in 2015".

Or share a room...

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Yeah will see still have to convince others its a good thing to go to and take a chance on and would be something I need to do and thanks for tail offer at it will keep it in mind :) much appreciated!

[Mer-Crazy]

For everyone worrying about booking right now, you can all calm down because they're not even taking bookings for next January anyway. It's only to December at the moment so it's a 12 months in advance thing. Also remember it's not until 2016, so you have all year to save for it. But I agree, renting a function room even for a night would be most awesome!

[Mermaid Leira]

Absolutely! and why not have it in Aus, that pool sounds amazing! Cound me in 100% :)

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Just don't make me sing karaoke! I have a terrible voice and will break your cameras and ear drums!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

lol @Jaffa at least I have a decent if loud singing voice lol if I can convince people its okay to go to something with people I don't know in person! Sigh arguement so far is its in a hotel in a public place will have our own rooms no need to say if we share lol and that its for 2 days for a mer fest and it could be a new chance for me to make friends with people who share the same interests as me :) Just hope it works lol wish me luck!

[Fifi Tigg]

My plan is as soon as you can book and we are happy with the dates I will book/pay for my two rooms and then book flights later when a special pops up and I'm happy to share a room if need be :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Have been told I can come if I bring along someone else :) Just till I get to know you all so now to find someone else to come along :) To be honest though they may not be as much mermaid happy as I am though lol but guess I have to hope and wait and see :) After that I can come alone. Sigh 28 years old with a disability and people are still looking out for me and don't want me meeting new people alone even though they are all ladies :P Just have to hope the person I asked says they will go as I really want to come to this and thanks to mermaid Jaffa I will have the offer of a tail to try out at it! Which I so want to do and think will be so much fun!

[Ilyena]

Totally in. Just gotta save on top of the many other things I'm saving for lol

[Mermaid Jaffa]

I will also bring a softer fin like the Fin Fun because you just said you are disabled. And well, I don't want to get in trouble if I bring a harder one and you... er... can't swim in it.

But I'll bring them both and you can try! I wear a ladies size 12 tail, if not the same size, just borrow the fins.

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Well I have Asbergers syndrome and a ankle injury right now that is recovering that I am in a brace for! Just dont go away from home much but really want to go to this lol :) And thanks sounds amazing! I am a size 61/2 foot usually! I really want to come :) Thanks At least after the first time when I get to know you guys if I can come I will be able to come alone! But being able to try both sounds great thanks a ton! Particulary since I want to meet others with the same interests as me or similar etc!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

What's the water depth? I can't find anything about it.

[Mer-Crazy]

Another thing we may want to consider is possibly doing this during the week? I'm just looking at prices and using December as a bit of a guide and doing it during the week it can save $40 a night. I mean it's just an idea. I don't know how flights work either if they're cheaper during the week or not? Since it's the holidays I wasn't sure if the fact it's a week day mattered too much or not, though I'm aware people will likely have to take work off if it's a week day. But I'm assuming dates will be discussed at more of a length once they actually become available in like a month or so. Also I believe they may offer discounts if we need 10 rooms or more so that may also be something we want to think about.

26313

[Theobromine]

Oh my god you guys. This sounds amazing. Can I come?!?!! My husband's from Townsville and his brother lives near the Gold Coast, and I think we might plan to go back to Aus in 2016 for his mum's 60th birthday anyway. I'm going to try to convince him to make a side trip!!!

[-Annwyn-]

The Gold Coast is pretty warm all year so I personally think we could pick any time of the year and we'd still be alright.

Theobromine: Of course! Anyone from around the world would be able to join in, so long as you can get there! :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

I so want to do this it will be amazing and its good we have all year to save for it as well :) Excited about it and hoping I can come as I really want too and if I don't have a tail thanks to mermaid Jaffa I will be able to try a tail out :) Thanks a ton!

[Mer-Crazy]

Well I'll probably being both of my tails down (should have my new Merbella one by then so I'll have a full silicone and a partial one) and if you're a short size 10 I'd be more than happy to lend the basic out as well as both of my monofins- a finis tempo (size like 6 I think) and a medium finis trainer 2 (up to size 9)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Aww thanks I would love that take normally a size 10 to 12 in pants :) And I am a short person lol :P I just really want to do this would be a dream! Thanks

[Mermaid Kelda]

Flip yes! I will be coming, no doubt about THAT! :D
I'm happy to share a room, even a bed if it saves money (I could even bring my own mattress and sleep on the floor if we get a room with double beds but others would rather not share). May or may not bring my boyfriend, but we'll see closer to the date :) I'm so excited for this!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

I am waiting to see if I will come alone or with a friend or something but I really want to come and meet you all and have the chance to be a mermaid! This sounds so amazing!

[Mizuko]

Yay so excited!! :D :D

[Mizuko]

Also, if we hire a function room we should have a mermaid ball with karaoke, hehe.

[Carousel_Moon]

wow if I googled right..that pool was made for mermaids!! look at it! http://www.surfsidepools.com.au/gallery/marriott-resort/

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

OH wow that is amazing! I so hope I can go to this I want too so bad!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Yay count me in for sure and will be bringing my sister along to spend time with her and meet you guys too please excuse what I said about the asbergers but I am a very nice happy person and I really look forward to meeting all of you and making some new friends!

[Fifi Tigg]

https://www.facebook.com/fiona.fogg#
Renee from Bellalina Mermaids has already been working hard on getting an australian merfest organised! :D
She would like you to know we are having merfest Australia Nov/Jan dates to be confirmed at southport queensland xx
Which dates would suit everyone better Nov or Jan?

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

January for me please :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Question will there be entrance fees or what is happening there?? Or is it just the cost of flights the hotel and food?? Thanks

[Fifi Tigg]

Renee: It's on scales fins and all we are just in finalization mode so within two weeks we shall have the dates and hotels blocked out as well as a tour with the creators of H20 and Mako mermaids x just hang tight ladies and keep your scales on its happening this yr around Nov / jan we just finding the best prices on hotel at the moment in South port Queensland and Mermaid Beach will be a 3 day Merfest Auzzie Style

[Fifi Tigg]

Renee said: Cost of flights and hotel so far yet I will try to keep cost down once I know ruffly how many we can get we could get included depending how I work my magic most likely there will be a dinner fee to cover but again I will work the best so we don't pay too much but definitely no entrance fees as we are all to be there to enjoy not make money from each other :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Yay sounds brilliant that works for me now to save the cash :) Thanks a ton!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Also will you be able to cater for dietary requirements?? Sorry guessing the hotel will :) All good thanks a ton am so excited and am bringing my sister along for the fun! Now to get a tail when I have the cash and hope I can save enough for it all to do this and have my own tail :)

http://www.finfunmermaid.com/shop-mermaid-tails/adult-and-kids-mermaid-tails/asian-magenta-mermaid-tail.html Speaking of which is that one a decent price and affordable and decent to get for use for this and the meantime since I can't afford silicone etc?? Hope to look at this in the future!

Just hope I can do both as would be great to have my own tail that fits in case others don't fit! Wish I could find a decent priced fabric tail in australia for a good price so I didn't have to pay such a large shipping fee!

Found one but would need to get the monofin included as well :) At least I know :) https://www.facebook.com/notes/miels-mermaid-tails/mermaid-tails-prices-and-designs/140177469475139

[Mermaid Kelda]

Nov or Jan work just as well for me :) I've no idea what I'll be doing either way, job-wise, but I'll try to keep it free!

[Merman Jamie]

This should be cool. almost any date works for me

[-Annwyn-]

Any date works for me too! Squeee! So excited!

[-Annwyn-]

Also, November might be awkward because it nearly collides with Schoolies.

I hate Schoolies.

[Mermaid Kelda]

Also, if we hire a function room we should have a mermaid ball with karaoke, hehe.
May I also just add YES YES YES
I have a dress I dropped mega-moneys on because it looks mermaidy and is all sequins and beautiful, and I need a decent excuse to wear it xD

[Merman Jamie]

Also, November might be awkward because it nearly collides with Schoolies.

I hate Schoolies.

good point

[-Annwyn-]

May I also just add YES YES YES
I have a dress I dropped mega-moneys on because it looks mermaidy and is all sequins and beautiful, and I need a decent excuse to wear it xD

Yeah I have a dress I need to lose about 20kgs for. *Looks thoughtful...rubs chin/s*

[Mer-Crazy]

Whilst November is my birth month and I can think of nothing better than spending it with a bunch of Mermaids the fact that school for most people is still on at that point (making it harder for people with kids to travel I'd assume, forgive me if it's not since I don't have kids haha) and that schoolies will be running rampant in Surfers and hotel prices will be through the roof I think January makes more sense to have it on :)

[Mermaid Kelda]

Ah yes, I forgot that schoolies is likely to put the hotel prices up! If that can be avoided it'd probably be best.
Plus, more time to plan is never a bad thing :)

[Carousel_Moon]

I would say Jan, as Nov people are rushing about starting their xmas stuff and Jan people are getting over all that/more relaxed....:)

[PearlieMae]

Dunno about Oceania, but in the states, January is tough, financially...post-Xmas credit card bills puts everyone on a budget...how's February in Australia?

[Mermaid Kelda]

*shrugs* maybe we don't put things on credit as much in Australia? I can't say for sure, since I don't do it myself, but I haven't heard of it being an issue amongst people I know.

I'm down for February too, it's just that people tend to go back to study in Feb. Whatever works, though!

[PearlieMae]

Ah...I just meant that January is tough because much is spent on Xmas. Not just credit cards. And school going back in February, I had no idea. The September Cozumel Merfest has already been commented on for the same reason!

No matter when it's held, someone isn't going to be able to come.




Yes, lots of forum posts means I am avoiding the inevitable unpacking of wet post-Merfest clothes.

[Mermaid Kelda]

Ah, I see! Well, as long as we know far enough ahead, people should be able to budget ;)


Yes, lots of forum posts means I am avoiding the inevitable unpacking of wet post-Merfest clothes.
My trick is to throw everything in hot water in the bath/sink for a few hours. That's a few hours more of procrastination!

[Mermaid Leira]

Jan is hard after Christmas and expensive due to school holidays, maybe pre schoolies , pre holidays and pre Christmas rush in early Nov?

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Nov is too early. Will have too many people up there. Late Jan or Feb would be great as people prepare to go back to school, uni, work etc.

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Well apparently it is a go! Not sure of the dates but there is this group made for it!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/?ref=br_rs

Guess whenever it happens I will go anyway as I am so excited about this even ordered a custom fabric tail with monofin from a south australian maker so I have a silver tail for it! Its from Meil's Mermaid tails! Am so excited and looking forward to this :) Now just to get the cash together for it to pay for rooms and also to pay for flights :) But I just wanted to make sure that I did have a tail I could use for it! Thanks to the offers of loans for the day too it was very much appreciated!

looks like it is at tangalooma island :) Just have to make sure I can do this and save the cash to come as I can't wait! Jumping for joy! Though do need details about resort costs so I know how much to save and where we would be staying if in the resort or where??

Thanks

[Mer-Crazy]

I feel like January is still the best time to have it. People are worried about financial strain from christmas, but what we should remember is that by then I'm assuming people will already have paid for their flights and at least put a deposit on a hotel room, if not paid off the whole thing. If you're well prepared you should only really have to pay to transport from the airport to the venue and food whilst there.Just something to remember <3

[Mermaid Jaffa]

MerQuest?

It didn't say when, so I just put in dates for the start of that week...

Just an approx price for a 3 day stay. Even the most basic room can be shared by up to 4 people. Which means we have to bring or find our own meals. I rather pay a bit more and get the meals package! But anyhoo, here are the prices of the rooms.

http://www.tangalooma.com/booking_2/booking-availability.aspx

[Mermaid Leira]

It looks like the Hamilton Island set up with a few different accommodation options for different budgets :)

[Mermaid Leira]

The beackfront villas sleep 7 wowee!

[-Annwyn-]

It looks like the Hamilton Island set up with a few different accommodation options for different budgets :)

Ohhh that sounds dreamy!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Island transfers to and from the airport.
http://www.tangalooma.com/info/general_information/departure_point/

And here I was worried how to get there, without public transport!!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

well both me and my sister are coming along so is there anywhere in particular we go for or do we choose our own accomodation or do we all want to be around the same area as each other for it?

[Mermaid Jaffa]

well both me and my sister are coming along so is there anywhere in particular we go for or do we choose our own accomodation or do we all want to be around the same area as each other for it?

Same hotel would be nice. Then its easier to get together for events, coffee, snacks etc.

[Merman Jamie]

looks nice

[Mermaid Leira]

Same hotel would be nice. Then its easier to get together for events, coffee, snacks etc.

It looks like it's only the one resort on Morton Island but with the option of hotel rooms, separate double story Villas, beachfront Villas, suites etc, but all in close proximity to each other and all have access to the same amenities, should make it easy for singles couples and families to attend :)

[Mer-Crazy]

I've been to Moreton Island before, it's stunning! The wrecks are beautiful and there's also a camping sight very close to the resort.

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Agreed with the same hotel! or area of accomodation

[Mermaid Kate Silverfin]

Sounds awesome! I'd love to come to this!
Are box jellyfish a problem at that time of year? I remember going out to the Whitsundays when I was younger, and you couldn't swim in the ocean because of the jellyfish.

[Nixe the Tropical Mermaid]

Im in! I'll be swimming on down from Far North Qld!!! Cant wait to meet fellow sea-stars from our Oceania Pod! Wonder if we can get some pod related merchandise happening?

[Mermaid Leira]

Sounds awesome! I'd love to come to this!
Are box jellyfish a problem at that time of year? I remember going out to the Whitsundays when I was younger, and you couldn't swim in the ocean because of the jellyfish.

Good point Kate, Not entirely sure, further near the Whitsundays have issues with Irukadnji (little nasty ones) in Nov -Dec I think but maybe this far South it will be ok

[Mermaid Leira]

I've been to Moreton Island before, it's stunning! The wrecks are beautiful and there's also a camping sight very close to the resort.

Awesome, lots of options then! :) I hope lots can make it!

[Mermaid Jessica Pearl]

Woah all of this happened really quickly from a facebook post to reality in two seconds flat! Haha. I've got to start saving!
Are we still going to have Mer-fest elements? I would love to be able to share my story and facilitate something. Maybe even do art classes (Providing I can come). I guess I do get to meet you all and share it personally though so that will be great :D

[Mermaid Kate Silverfin]

I put this on the Facebook page, and apparently it's okay on this island. Good because I'd hate for someone to get a poisonous jellyfish down their tail!

[Carousel_Moon]

@Mermaid Selene..for anyone coming to the event..not from Aus (me from New Zealand)...it's not a simple trip to pay for up front. I'd need to renew my passport book overseas flight, then hotel, transport etc on top :P
So i'm a 'maybe' due to that.

[Elle]

if you did november on the goldie it'd have to be early november because it sucks being down there around schoolies time

[Elle]

but if it's in QLD and it's not too hard to get to, I'll be there

Kinda put the pressure on to finish my tail

[Mer-Crazy]

@Mermaid Selene..for anyone coming to the event..not from Aus (me from New Zealand)...it's not a simple trip to pay for up front. I'd need to renew my passport book overseas flight, then hotel, transport etc on top :P
So i'm a 'maybe' due to that.
I am aware, but there's still a lot of time to save up, and things can be done in increments, pay for passport here, save up some more, pay for flights there, save up some more, accommodation down payment, and so on. I'm planning to go to Fiji this year in August and I've already started planning and saving, but I'm just really over organised that way.

[Theobromine]

I want to come sooooooo bad. It's so expensive to fly there from the US but I am sooo homesick for QLD! I'll keep talking to my husband about it...money is really tight right now, and he'll be saving up all his vacation time for when his mum comes to visit this year, and I know that's really important to him. I wish it wasn't so bloody expensive to fly anywhere! I was bummed about missing NC Merfest but I will cry for the rest of my life if I miss this!

[hellocourtney]

Ohhhh my goodness this would be so amazing! Bit spensy because international travel bit I think I could make it work. Plus another incentive to get my tail finished doesn't hurt 😁

[Mermaid Jaffa]

I'm definitely going. So excited! Just got to get some work and get paid, so I don't have to scrimp n save and have a good time up there.

[Mermaid Syaira]

is this going to be an annual thing?

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

I am in scrimping and saving time for me as I want to save cash to do everything i want up there

[Mermaid Kelda]

but if it's in QLD and it's not too hard to get to, I'll be there
Elle! Haven't seen you in a while :) I hope you can come!


I will cry for the rest of my life if I miss this!
I'm sure we will have another one! But, I hope you can come this time, too!

[-Annwyn-]

if you did november on the goldie it'd have to be early november because it sucks being down there around schoolies time

Yeah I've been saying this too.

[-Annwyn-]

Does Syrena know about this? I hope she can make it from Singapore. :)

[Mermaid Kelda]

Doesn't look like schoolies will be an issue, now that it's going to be at Moreton Island!

[Mer-Crazy]

Does Syrena know about this? I hope she can make it from Singapore. :)
Oh I'd love to meet her!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

I wonder if we can get Mahina Mermaid to come along?

[MermaidStormy]

Sooooo In for this !!! Can't believe how much it has come together in just one day o.o

I would love to meet syrena !!!!!

[Fifi Tigg]

We have official dates 12th to the 14th of Jan 2016!!!! :yay:

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Yay so excited now to save every cent to have the best experience possible at this merquest

[Merman Jamie]

cool. nice to have a date to organize around

[-Annwyn-]

Moreton Island.....isn't that the Moreton Island just east of Brisbane?

:S That's.....inconvenient.

Hmm. Flights + Shuttle to ferry + return ferry + accomodation + tickets.

I'll have to do my maths and see how things add up.

[-Annwyn-]

Just a thought: It's the first Mer-convention for us Aussies. Would it not be in our best interest to have it easy to get to, from a ticket selling POV?

[Mermaid Kelda]

Well the accommodation will be cheaper than it would have been on the Gold Coast, I think. Someone mentioned we can get discounted ferry rates because we're booking a function room, and I can't say for sure but maybe some of us who live in Brisbane could meet people at the airport and taxi them to the ferry.

A thought for mers coming from interstate: sometimes I have found it can be cheaper to fly to the Gold Coast airport and catch the train up to Brisbane (takes about an hour). It might even work that my boyfriend and I could pick people up from OOL if it's considerably cheaper and the train takes too long.

Something to consider, at least! I don't want mers to decide they can't come because of the extra travel :( Moreton Island is seriously beautiful and the perfect place for a mer convention!

[Elle]

Elle! Haven't seen you in a while :) I hope you can come!

Yes, been busy with university and placements. I'm going on another placement in less than a week. then it's four weeks of being busy as hell, then back you uni

[Elle]

If we have it on Moreton I'll have to be a maybe because I can get money to stretch but I'm not a magician.
Purely because of the extra costs put on because of the ferry. As you need to think it's not just a cost of the ferry, you have to park your car in their carpark if you choose not to take it across on the barge. Then there are the transfer costs from the ferry/barge landing point to Tangalooma. If you have brought a car you can drive it to Tangalooma. But having it brought over isn't cheap.

And for interstate mers who are also having to pay for flights and then we all have to pay for accommodation on top of that. It get's pretty pricey pretty quick.

[Mer-Crazy]

Elle if you're around Brisbane I'm happy to car-pool you, I made the same offer to Melaina. I have a friend who's willing to just drop us off so that no car has to be left their if we like.

[Elle]

I'd have my husband/land transport with me and in all likelihood his son as well.
We just might have to opt for staying at Moreton's castaway accommodation or go glamping (which is up the north end and a bit of a trek from Tangalooma)

I've done the maths, to get there, stay and come home it's going to cost around $800+ dependent on what the cost of accommodation is in Tangalooma (that's without the cost of food or anything)

[Elle]

Just a thought: It's the first Mer-convention for us Aussies. Would it not be in our best interest to have it easy to get to, from a ticket selling POV?

I'm with Annwyn on this. for a first ever convention here, I think picking somewhere on the sunshine coast or the gold coast would be better than going out to an island. I'd love for as many of us to go as possible. and if we have mers coming from the other side of the country, they're looking at $500-$600 for their flights on top of the accomodation, cost of tickets, food, etc.

[Fifi Tigg]

I think the most beautiful place to hold our first MerQuest is so worth every penny! We also have a underwater photographer coming to do the most epic photo shoots on the ship wrecks! I know about the cost as I'm flying my whole family over from W.A and the airfare for us is just over $3000 but we have a plan to pay things as we go. Accomodation, then flights, ferry (which we have a big discount on) $43 return and then some spending money.
We are not wealthy but we have a plan and a year to make this happen! :D xx

[Tasha Mermaid]

I was really really really excited about this.....but it seems the need for an island place has completely sank any chance what so ever of me being able to afford to come 😢

I really cannot afford to pay for a plane, taxi, hotel and ferry. Its just not doable even if i started saving from now, i have to much i have to pay every week and my extra savings just would not stretch far enough for myself and my partner to come 😔

At the start it was sounding doable though.

[Tasha Mermaid]

That Marriot pool (just seen it lol) looks amazing 😍

[Fifi Tigg]

Just a few prices I know of so far :)

* Villas at $43.00 per head and sleeps 8
* Return ferry ride $45
* No entry fee for the MerQuest

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Its just too bad, its not a swim across to the island... I would def do that!

[Elle]

Its just too bad, its not a swim across to the island... I would def do that!

Yeah, just a bit too far for that. :)

[Mermaid Jaffa]

But then how about our luggage? hahaha!

[Mermaid Kelda]

Yeah TBH guys it's not that much more expensive. The villas are WAY less expensive than the hotel rooms which are upwards of $80 per night per person for the cheapest 4-person room. A $43 villa is nearly half the price. If you include the ferry ride, the only extra cost is the taxi ride - and (so far) Selene and I are willing to taxi people from airports. Selene will be in Brisbane then and my BF and I are happy to pick people up from Gold Coast airport. If you play your cards right, the entire trip shouldn't cost any extra at all!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

But the villas are sold out for the dates.

And the cheapest is the unserviced rooms that sleeps 4 in it.

Should be fine I think. Worked out you only pay $53 per person per night for them. So if can get groups of 4 to share a room, it would be ok.

Is there a mermaid discount for large groups? Lol!

[Elle]

But then how about our luggage? hahaha!

float it on a surf board :)

So the villas are sold out......they have holiday houses up there. are they worth looking into?

Mind you having actual numbers for how many people are actually going would be good to know

[Mermaid Kelda]

Are you sure? Everything is showing up as available for 2016 for me. From what I can tell there are holiday homes you can book for 4 nights which fit 12 and go for around $40 each.

[Mermaid Jaffa]

http://www.tangalooma.com/booking_2/booking-availability.aspx

There are no packages yet. I hoping maybe towards the middle of the year, they might have some deals up. But as you can see, all the good ones are taken.

[Fifi Tigg]

Renee has done a few make a wish with her mermaids there so she knows the hotel owner and said she will put down a deposit for a few villas ;)
I suggest everyone that has any questions, concerns or ideas joins the page and all your questions will be answered :)
https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/

[Elle]

and there would be couches and a truckload of floor space too I imagine. The only thing would be someone would have to foot the bill for booking the dates and everyone would have to pay them back.

[Mermaid Kelda]

26372
Villas are still available, as are holiday homes which are actually better value.
Not sure how much money packages saves but I'm sure we could inquire :)

[Mermaid Kelda]

And honestly if mers can't make it because of the extra cost I'll pay for the excess! I don't want anyone to miss out on account of a better venue!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

I'm in between jobs so hopefully soon I'll have some work to go to and can start saving up. I really really want to go!

Middle of the year is not too late to book my spot, room etc right?

[Elle]

26373

This is a layout of the villa, so there is the big bed, two singles, two trundles and a bunk bed. It's not to scale but I reckon you could potentially fit at least another 2 on the living area floor and have a short person on the couch. you could also probably stuff another person in the second bedroom on the floor and one-two in the first bedroom.

So maybe up to 12 or so people per villa. But then you have to look at if people are going to be bringing their significant other. which decreases the amount of room for mers
So I personally would want to bring my husband with me (for land transport and the rest if I come along)

[Mermaid Kelda]

We did discuss it briefly on the FB page, and most people seem happy to do a "lucky dip" type thing where couples/families are treated as one "piece of paper" and are drawn out of the hat as a group, so to speak. Then everyone else is also drawn out and we get assigned to villas etc :) that way people are kept with their SOs but we still are able to make new friends.

As far as fitting 12 or so into a villa goes, I'm happy to roll out a mattress on the floor but some hotels are very strict on the number of people you are allowed to have in the room after a certain time. Something to look into, though!

[Elle]

yeah, I only just saw that post (I only added the page a couple of hours ago) If I come out with my husband, we'll have to go a hotel room. seeing as there is the possibility of 3 of us because of his son.

[Mermaid Kelda]

3 isn't too many for a villa though, is it? We could make sure the three of you are in the same villa together and then all the individual mers can get worked out around the couples/families.

[Elle]

yeah, but there are people bringing their partners and things. A hotel room is designed for 2-4 so If push comes to shove that's what we'll do I think. I don't want to put someone out that is 100% sure when I'm only 65-70% sure I'll be making it

[Elle]

at the moment 25 people are going (according to facebook) and I don't know how many of them have partners or children, and for 3 villas with only 8 sleeping spots in each we've already gone over the amount of people who can fit.

[Mermaid Kelda]

I don't think we can know for sure how many people we'll have until closer to the date. I guess we will have to try to budget for every outcome and hope it turns out for the best! Everything will not work for everyone but I hope we can have as many mers there as possible :)

[Mermaid Syaira]

i'm a maybe for coming and I have two other mers who will be coming with me if I go

[Elle]

our attendance will come down to whether or not we can save for it. Full time uni-student and an adult apprentice receiving half the amount he's supposed to be getting because of a loop hole. the odds are kind of against us.
The goldie while it would've been a struggle, we probably could've managed it (we actually started planning it).

[Tasha Mermaid]

It will be my fiance and i and we are going to try to make it to go, and as long as we can get a double or two singles to push together we are more then happy to be in a villa

[Mer-Crazy]

See I feel like the island is working out cheaper isn't it? I mean $40 a head (Per night? Or total? Not sure?) And even a full priced return ferry ticket ($80) is still WAY cheaper than the $300-$350 or so they were planning to charge a NIGHT for a room at the Marriot which would have only slept 4 people max. Flights will be fairly similar to either Gold Coast or Brisbane I assume?

[Elle]

but if we have more people than beds some of us may have to stay in the hotel rooms, so it works out the same. Personally, I feel people wouldn't have a great time sharing space with me because my husband snores like a freight train. Also his boss is a dick so getting time off in the middle of a week is very difficult for us.
I get what you're saying and for 1 person it definitely works out cheaper. But for our family it works out at a higher rate.

I'm not saying we should've stuck with the Marriott, it just doesn't feel like a lot of research went into this.

[Nixe the Tropical Mermaid]

Ill be coming and seriously Id sleep on the floor if need be! Looks like my partner will be there attending too, and we can easily squeeze into a single bed. Have done it before! Totally worth it for MerQuest if you ask me!! =D I do think it needs to be worked out in advance though so everyone knows whats happening and can book accordingly

[Merman Jamie]

about 2 hours ago there was a post that it might be getting held down the gold coast after all https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/permalink/313868278803123/

[Elle]

yes, I did see.

[Mermaid Kelda]

They've changed it back to the Marriot! As much as I love Moreton Island, when they came out with how much all the activities cost, it really was getting way too expensive. Yay! Now everyone can (hopefully) come!

[Merman Jamie]

hopefully all can come now

[Elle]

even if they can't stay at the Marriott (pricing is still an issue I saw) they'll be able to stay nearby, because they'll be able to come use the pool and visit those staying there

[Mermaid Kelda]

Hopefully we can get a bulk discount! It seems for the cheapest room it's about $75 each (4 person) per night for a room with 2 double beds. Apparently "Connecting rooms are available (for some rooms)" so we might even be able to share a larger space? If that's what that means haha.

[Theobromine]

It's going to take a miracle for me to be able to attend this, but I'm not giving up yet. A year may be enough time to save up, but my husband's mum's 60th bday is in March of next year, and I know how important it is for both of them that we go visit her then. So that would make it REALLY difficult for us to also be there in January, as we couldn't fly to Australia from the US twice in two months (airfare costs around 1300-1600 USD per person on a good day), and neither of us would get enough leave to be able to stay in QLD for two months. I was really hoping we'd be able to plan a trip so the two events coincided but it doesn't look like I got that lucky. I'm still hopeful, but at the end of the day family is more important. However, that means that if I can't go to MerQuest I will at least be in TSV in March...maybe we could arrange a smaller meetup then or something. I'll at least have to catch up with Nixe the Tropical Mermaid, I'd love to meet some more of you as well!

[Mermaid Kelda]

If I have enough money left I'd love to travel up north to meet you, if it works out!

[Mer-Crazy]

Oh me too! I'd come to that mer met up, given that I have the money.

[Elle]

They're currently taking a list of those attending on the FB page so that we can attempt the world record for most mermaids in a pod.
But they are re-doing the list closer to the date, so we can finalise numbers so don't feel you need to rush over there and get your name down

[Fifi Tigg]

The location has been changed to The Marriot on the Gold Coast because the island got a bit pricey :)
The first Annual Mermaid gathering for all Australian Mermaids and Mermaids across the oceans world wide to experience our gorgeous Australian waters. We will have plenty of activities to choose from as well as a gala Marquee dinner by the pool :)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Marriot-Resort-Spa-Surfers-Paradise-Gold-Coast/213682162015968

[Theobromine]

So what is the latest date we can RSVP to this event? I feel like things are moving along really quickly even though it's a year out, and it will be a while before I can be sure if I can make it or not.

[Fifi Tigg]

So what is the latest date we can RSVP to this event? I feel like things are moving along really quickly even though it's a year out, and it will be a while before I can be sure if I can make it or not.
Bookings for the Marriott cannot be made until mid year so you have time :)
Plus you do not have to stay at the Marriott as long as some of us our there you can join us as a guest :D

[Mermaid Dottie]

I wonder how much it would be to fly to australia.... *she thinks idly, while going over her credit card bills from this january...*

[Theobromine]

Dottie: not cheap :p

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Dottie: not cheap :p

You can do it, if you ate no name brands of food, don't go out unless you have to (work, school, church) and only spend what you have to (house bills).

[Carousel_Moon]

I was trying to remember where this thred was posted and noticed there is a forum for conventions/gatherings...do we need a post in there?

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Nope.

[OceanWhisper]

I would totally love to go to this!!! Omg how amazing would it be to meet all of the other Australian mers?!? AGHH this will be incredible if it happens!!

[Elle]

it is happening. We have a facebook page and everything

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

We do ocean Whisper it is definitely happening even have the location decided!

[Merman Jamie]

yep. and the location is awesome

[OceanWhisper]

That's great! The only thing is, flights from the opposite side of Australia are in the $1000s, and I won't be able to get that kind of money in a year. :( I would really love to be able to go though :) that pool looks perfect for mermaids :D

[Ilyena]

If Perth is where you are from, then its not that much, they're about $800 return ish, even cheaper if you find a deal :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Where I live it will probably be 400 returnish since to mackay is normally 550 return round abouts at least last time I traveled it was so perth shouldn't be too bad and that is 2 connecting flights in mine since I have to fly out from my regional airport

[Mermaid Labrynth]

it is happening. We have a facebook page and everything

Could you please link the Facebook Page for this? I searched for it but nothing turned up? I would love to go to make contact with other local Mers =)

[Elle]

The group page

https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/ (https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/)

The event page

https://www.facebook.com/events/616704861773028/

[Mermaid Labrynth]

The group page

https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/ (https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/)

The event page

https://www.facebook.com/events/616704861773028/

Thankyou! Was using the wrong search terms =P

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

I would love to join however it depends on how long I've got to wait before there is a slot available to order my tail and how long it will take to cure etc, it would be wonderful it arrives in time just before the MerFest of Australia.

I would definitely love that.

Sharing rooms would be a brilliant idea, it would be nice as we could discuss things all mermaid :)

Can I still join if I only own a monofin?

[Elle]

I would love to join however it depends on how long I've got to wait before there is a slot available to order my tail and how long it will take to cure etc, it would be wonderful it arrives in time just before the MerFest of Australia.

I would definitely love that.

Sharing rooms would be a brilliant idea, it would be nice as we could discuss things all mermaid :)

Can I still join if I only own a monofin?


There is no requirements for attending. You just come along. It's not due to happen until January next year so you've got time to do what ever you want to do tail wise if you wanted to come with a tail

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

I'll come regardless monofin or tail :D

So exciting, thank you to everyone who came up with the idea and organised this event!

[Mer-Crazy]

I would love to join however it depends on how long I've got to wait before there is a slot available to order my tail and how long it will take to cure etc, it would be wonderful it arrives in time just before the MerFest of Australia.

Elle is right, there's no requirement to attend. In saying that though, based on current wait times with the main silicone tail makers I think unless you ordered from MerNation or Mertailor you won't get it in time since both FinFolk and Merbellas wait times are about a year at the moment, assuming you got a slot right away.

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

Thanks Mermaid Selene, I've been wondering what Merbella's wait time is like at present, here's hoping there will be a slot available sooner :)

Regardless if its tail or monofin, I'll still join. Mermaid Mahina has a good range of monofins that I would like to purchase now while I am waiting for my tail.

[Mer-Crazy]

Thanks Mermaid Selene, I've been wondering what Merbella's wait time is like at present, here's hoping there will be a slot available sooner :)

Regardless if its tail or monofin, I'll still join. Mermaid Mahina has a good range of monofins that I would like to purchase now while I am waiting for my tail.
Her FB page says 200-300 days but you're almost certainly looking towards the later portion of that.

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

Oh! Thank you for clarifying Selene, I was under the impression the 200-330 days was the process/creation time to make the tail and not the actual time to wait for an order.

That's not too bad wait time which is equivalent to a 7 month to 11 month. That ought to lessen my loan amount.

I'll have plenty of time to save between now and then, it means I definitely won't have a tail for the merfest, I'm okay with that, there is always next year :)

[Mer-Crazy]

Oh! Thank you for clarifying Selene, I was under the impression the 200-330 days was the process/creation time to make the tail and not the actual time to wait for an order.

Sorry I did mean 200-300 AFTER she accepts your order. There is no definite wait time to actually get an order in. It's all a matter of luck there.

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

I'll get my fluke well oiled and an aterproof electric motor tail to boot so I can zoom into action ;)

Thanks Selene.

[FlyAway]

I'd love to make it to this! Might be tail-less though... would a monofin mermaid be allowed? ;)

[Elle]

I'd love to make it to this! Might be tail-less though... would a monofin mermaid be allowed? ;)

Absolutely.

[FlyAway]

Awesome :D Might have to start saving the dollars!

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

I'll be joining you too FlyAway I'll be wearing a monofin :) I'm purchasing a Mahina Merfin from a local store in the city by June so I get plenty of practice ready for January. I'm super pumped :)

[Mermaid Jaffa]

I'll be bringing some spare tails for those without one. Just let me know what fin you are bringing. I have tails for merfin, finis foil and Fin Fun.

I wear ladies size 12, and tails are slightly longer as I'm tall with big hips! so if you can fit, you can borrow one for the trip.

[Elle]

I'll probably bring my merfin along even though I won't be using it. It'll just be for back up

Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

Nice one Jaffa, I'm size 9AU I think that's a bit big for me :) That'll be great Elle.

[Elle]

Nice one Jaffa, I'm size 9AU I think that's a bit big for me :) That'll be great Elle.


I think Jaffa means the tail size is size 12 - like pants size.

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Yep, pants size. My feet are 7.5 ladies shoe. Since I'll be going by myself, I may not bring that many fins after all. Tails I can do, but to carry all them fins around...

We shall see...

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

Ooops, on my behalf :$

[FlyAway]

That's a lovely offer Jaffa :) Unfortunately a bit too small for me but thanks!

[AnnaAbyss]

I'd love to come. My family and I went to Queensland in 2004 and we loved it. Going again would be great! And my silicone tail would be finished way before then, so yay!

[Luna Dreamtide]

Anyone know any updated info on this event? I haven't heard anything in awhile and I tried to join the Facebook page ages ago to get more details and still haven't gotten that accepted... So any info anymer?

[Silva]

Dang, I would love to go, but I can't :( I hope all of you have a awesome time though!

[Elle]

Anyone know any updated info on this event? I haven't heard anything in awhile and I tried to join the Facebook page ages ago to get more details and still haven't gotten that accepted... So any info anymer?

When I get to my computer I'll see if I can add you. There is no current updates that I know of. But I'm fairly certain it's still on

Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2

[Mermaid Keena]

Darn I'd love to! But I have work commitments at the beginning of January in Adelaide - I can't leave hubby alone with the kids for that long and can't yet afford to bring them haha So I'm aiming for my silicon tail in 2017, and enough $$ coming in to be able to bring my family with me... So I'm DEFINITELY at the 2018 MerFest =D (sorry its 3 years away!!)

[Elle]

Anyone know any updated info on this event? I haven't heard anything in awhile and I tried to join the Facebook page ages ago to get more details and still haven't gotten that accepted... So any info anymer?

I looked through the FB page, but there are no new requests to join...

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Its a shame MerQuest isn't on now. I just saw an ad for flights to Gold Coast for $39!

[Elle]

Its a shame MerQuest isn't on now. I just saw an ad for flights to Gold Coast for $39!

How do you know it's not on? I didnt see anything on facebook

Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2

[Mer-Crazy]

How do you know it's not on? I didnt see anything on facebook

Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2
I think she means 'not on at this very moment' I highly doubt it's been canceled ^_^ Personally I'm glad its not on no, but only because I really want some time to get and practice in my new tail before it's on. Also it's not very nice swimming weather. I'm glad we're having it in the summer and I just can't understand the America's logic behind having their major mermaid convention in the middle of winter effectively...

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Oops! Yea I meant its not on now. I was excited at such cheap flights!

[Fifi Tigg]

To all the Wonderful Merfolk,
It saddens me to say that MerQuest Australia will be postponed until 2017 due to a few unforeseen circumstances. We would like to organise a nation wide Mermaid Day though in its place and once a appropriate date has been selected we will lock it in!
Kind regards
Fifi

[Fifi Tigg]

P.S. Try not to be too sad because we will all have the Mermaid Day in every state to meet your local mermaids. This will also give more time for mermaids to prepare & save for the awesomeness that will occur in 2017! ��

[PearlieMae]

I think she means 'not on at this very moment' I highly doubt it's been canceled ^_^ Personally I'm glad its not on no, but only because I really want some time to get and practice in my new tail before it's on. Also it's not very nice swimming weather. I'm glad we're having it in the summer and I just can't understand the America's logic behind having their major mermaid convention in the middle of winter effectively...

I'm not sure why the organizers picked January, but it sure was a welcome break from the brutal cold of what seemed like an endless winter. I think most places where we could swim outdoors in a convention setting is just prohibitively expensive. The aquatic center was lovely, and the hotel was reasonably priced.

I could be wrong, though.

[Mermaid Stardust]

[emoji30] oh no

[Mermaid Kelda]

Augh! :fallover:
Well, if any QLD mers are keen for a meet up this summer, let's do it!

[Mermaid Kate Silverfin]

Aww, I was really looking forward to this :(

[Merman Jamie]

Augh! :fallover:
Well, if any QLD mers are keen for a meet up this summer, let's do it!

Definitely

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Awww! And I already started saving!:cry:

Ah well, my local pool is open all year one, if NSW and other mers are interested.

[Elle]

Augh! :fallover:
Well, if any QLD mers are keen for a meet up this summer, let's do it!

Absolutely

Sent from my GT-I9100 using Tapatalk 2

[Mer-Crazy]

Absolutely. Devoed. Was looking so forward to meeting all of you :( But I am defs up for National Mermaid day haha. May have to attend the Queensland once though haha.

[Obelia]

National mermaid day, eh? August 1 in the US, apparently, although that would be rather chilly around here....

[Mermaid Kelda]

Ah, but if we had National Mermaid Day on the same day as the US, it'd be called International Mermaid Day. We can have ours whenever we like ;)

[Merfin_Aurora_Oceania]

Although I am disappointed for everyone that the MerQuest is delayed till 2017, hopefully by then I'll have a full set.

[Mermaid Romy]

Oh my gosh I can't believe I didn't see this till now D: I'm excited just for the idea! I will save and save [even if it's in 2017]! It'll be so cool to meet all the awesome Aussie mers!

[Mermaid Bella]

I'm happy to spearhead organisation for melbourne mer day

[Mermaid Romy]

I'm happy to spearhead organisation for melbourne mer day
Oh yes yes please! My tail should be here this week and I can't wait to swim with some more mers!
(side not me and my little pod swim regularly at Cheltenham and anyone is welcome to message me if they wanna join us!)

Sent from my D6653 using Tapatalk

[AnnaAbyss]

Ooh! I'd love to swim with some other mermaids once my tail is finished. :D

[Fifi Tigg]

We are so flat out with gigs etc that I haven't got time to organise a meet here in W.A and the only time I'm available is sometime during January and then only weekends for the last two hot months.
If you are a mer here in W.A let me know when you are available and we can organise something :D

[AniaR]

If you ever do have a convention and get sponsorship please fly Sean and I over. We have a whole host of workshops we'd do for you!

[Fifi Tigg]

If you ever do have a convention and get sponsorship please fly Sean and I over. We have a whole host of workshops we'd do for you!
If we flew you over I wouldn't let you leave! Haha

[Merman Andrew]

So is anyone still interested in the idea of an (Australian) National Mermaid day? Fifi is too busy so we should all try to come up with a date. I'm completely new to the scene but happy to help organise or coordinate in some way if there is interest?

[Mermaid Adrienne]

Wish I could go, but I have to save for florida :/ Moving in with my boyfriend.

[Merman Andrew]

Hey Jema you realise that MerFest has been moved to 2017 now? So you now have a whole year to save (and to learn to use your new tail!)!

Sent from my HTC_PN071 using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Romy]

Is there a FB page we can join if we wanna be part of planning or even just to stay tuned without having to stalk mernetwork?

[Mer-Crazy]

There are 2, one is a page and one an event, both not overly active and some mermaids keep posting random stuff about themselves on the page (not that I'm against self promotion but it has nothing to do with the event and I'd prefer if it was kept only relevant). The event page seems to be more kept up to date with info

https://www.facebook.com/events/616704861773028/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/313498175506800/?ref=ts&fref=ts

[Merman Andrew]

Cool, so looks likely to be happening in November this year in Sydney now?

Sent from my HTC_PN071 using Tapatalk

[Mer-Crazy]

From what I can gather it's on the 19th and 20th (3 days before my birthday woo) at Renee's (the main organiser's) house? I think we're staying at her house but not sure. But she has said we're hiring a charter I think to have an ocean trip one day. Personally I am gonna stay an extra day (I have family there not at Renee's house) and visit the aquarium ^_^

[Merman Andrew]

That sounds really awesome. I've got a whole 11 months to save up and to get my mer skills on!

Sent from my HTC_PN071 using Tapatalk

[Mer-Crazy]

That sounds really awesome. I've got a whole 11 months to save up and to get my mer skills on!

Sent from my HTC_PN071 using Tapatalk
Personally I'm just waiting for my tail haha. Any yeah, gotta work on them mermaid skills

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Yay! It'll be 4 days before my birthday too! Merquest birthdays!

[Luna Dreamtide]

Do we know anything about costs yet?

[Merman Jamie]

Do we know anything about costs yet?

not that I have seen


it also seems a number of us have a birthday in November.

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Nov? I thought it was jan?

[Mer-Crazy]

Nov? I thought it was jan?
Renee says it's the 19th and 20th or November

Sent from my SM-T355Y using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Oh well, not 4 days before my birthday! My birthday's in Jan. But am looking forward to the event. I have been practicing!

[Mer-Crazy]

MerQuest will now be held in Busselton WA for those not on FB. I'll post more details as they are announced.

[Merman Andrew]

Yep, Busselton 25-27th November 2016

Sent from my HTC_PN071 using Tapatalk

[Fifi Tigg]

I'm very excited to be organising this for everyone and I have few cool things up my sleeve! Cannot wait to share! :D
Also this date is locked in tight, there will be no more changes!

[Mermaid Keena]

Super excited!! I hope I can come!! (Depends on sitters etc)

Sent from my 5017A using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

if this goes well and ya'll end up having another, I hope you'll consider hiring sean and I bahaha. Maybe you can get the plane tix sponsored or something ;) we'd love to come pass on our training!!!

[Fifi Tigg]

if this goes well and ya'll end up having another, I hope you'll consider hiring sean and I bahaha. Maybe you can get the plane tix sponsored or something ;) we'd love to come pass on our training!!!
We would love to have you guys!
I think this year will end up being a small event due to the airfare costs for the mermaids in the East but I'm sure the following year will build up bigger and better. So many opportunities here in the West :D

[Mermaid Jaffa]

I've been trying, and not been successful, to get a job in Sydney now that we have moved to be closer to Dad's doctors at RNS.
Fins crossed I will get something soon as I decided to go back to work as a temp, at least I'll have recent work experience to rely on to get myself a permanent job. I really want to go, and I have to make things happen or I'll be a sad fish again.

[Fifi Tigg]

https://www.facebook.com/groups/427059944159144/ (https://www.facebook.com/groups/427059944159144/)

Hello fellow Mermaids and Mermen! As you might be aware we (Fifi, Jessica and myself) have been working on a nation wide meet up in Busselton WA. In respect to the original creators of Merquest we have created a new name and a new page so we can start fresh. So allow me to introduce to you "Mercon Australia" the first Australian Merfolk Convention. Mercon will be held 25th - 27th of November in Busselton WA. Please follow the link to the group and read our pinned post to view out current itinerary of events/activities. We will be posting more information as things get confirmed, but please feel free to add suggestions and ask questions. This current page (Merquest) will eventually be shut down so if you are interested please join our new group. Thank you xx