Loaded up with torches, gumboots and odd copies of "The Famous Five", these pint-sized invaders piled on the good old McKenzie's Bus and trundled the winding route from Melbourne to Taggerty where they found a little freckled redhead eagerly awaiting them.

Shortly after arriving they shed their city clothes, and disappeared with astonishing confidence into the surrounding bush. Bereft city-based parents knew better than to telephone during daylight hours, accepting their children would be not be within hollering distance of a phone until darkness fell … and as for my own poor parents, I think they must have been fast learners and knew whilst they still heard childish voices … however distant … all was well.

Treehouses were constructed, and hideouts
of every kind … secret codes, pathways and passwords, and imaginations ran wild. The Homestead overflowed at the seams … and somehow, each and every child survived, with cuts and bruises commonplace, but spirits remaining high.

Today, those untamed youngsters are grown and very civilised. The gumboots and fraying jeans have given way to high-heels and respectable suits. For some the crumpled bus

And the red hair … well, I still have it, although it's brushed more often now - but unlike my old pals I've not quite outgrown the bush life, and doubt I ever will. Instead, the fascinating diversity of wild animals existing amidst the mountains and the Manna Gums have come to form a significant part of my existence … with sights, sounds and impressions from childhood making sense in a more adult, scientific whole.

Now, children still come to Kingbilli, in smaller numbers mind you, as their families look to escape their hectic schedules and the hustle and bustle of 21st century living. The world is not as it once was, and today increasing attentiveness is required to keep children safe and secure. Regrettably, this places a growing strain on parents, and is a dilemma many like to leave behind when they plan that well-earned holiday.

Kingbilli is a place where children can be children, and weary parents can relax in their secluded cottage without concern as their offspring discover the joys of independence and imagination. There is no fear of roaring traffic, lurking strangers or other latter-day perils … instead, kids may play all day without interruption.

Heading off into the bush, they'll find a treehouse to play in, wombat trails to follow and hillcountry to explore.

There's a creek for paddling, dams for summer swimming, and an endless array of animals with whom children may be friends.

And perhaps after a day or two, their batteries recharged … rejuvenated parents may locate their wandering youngsters and join them in a game of tennis, a fish in the pond, or perhaps some gentle rowing as the sun begins to set.

As the urban world grows increasingly disconnected from its natural counterpart, it's hard for today's cosmopolitan kids to develop an understanding of the true magic Mother Nature has to offer.

As a registered Wildlife Refuge, Kingbilli aims to change that … providing an opportunity for families to enjoy the Aussie bush in comfort, and observe, first-hand, native wildlife in a natural habitat.

For those families seeking a true environmental 'close-up', there are several options to consider ...

Llama Eco-Treks (suitable for children over 5)
Llakeside Llama Lluncheons (suitable for all ages)
Pouch Professors Eco-Education Sessions (suitable for children aged 7-14).

of our 'urge-to-conserve' will rub off on the next generation.

Even if you lack the energy for an active holiday, and you and your youngsters simply relax in the gardens or by the edge of the pond, serenaded by songbirds and scrutinised by lounging kangaroos, we know you too will benefit from the soothing tranquillity we find so hard to leave.

One way or another, Kingbilli is a wondrous place for children … after all, I should know.