Crikey

I had to do it. Steve Irwin's 'Australia Zoo' was literally on my way north, how could I pass it by without dropping in for a look?

It was everything you'd ever imagine it to be and more. The place oozed tackiness and cheese: from the $46 entry fee, through to the crocodile feeding show and finally the Steve dolls in the three separate gift shops. No stone has been left unturned in the pursuit of the ultimate tacky experience.

Though Steve wasn't there in person, he was definitely there in spirit (and also in life-size, paper cut outs). Every sign, every photo, every display oozed Steveness. Barely a sign could be found without some reference to 'crikey' or 'have a go at this one'! It was enough to make any man want to eat four-n-twenty pies (available from the 'tucker' shop) until he exploded.

In fairness though, it was an impressive complex. The animals had an abundance of space and seemed well looked after. The funds that man has made from his entertaining idiocy have at least been put back into the zoo and its facilities for both occupants and visitors.