December, 8th 2012 was the day chosen for Eurocopter’s Christmas party, a day that has come to be all about families spending time together, socializing and relaxing. The function was held at Fabz Estate in Lonehill, a charming, venue with a duck pond, beautiful gardens and lots of space.  While parents relaxed and socialized, the children amused themselves on the many rides provided ie huge inflatable water slides, a rodeo bull, smaller water slides for the little ones and even a dunking tank.  After all of that activity, there was plenty of ice cream, candy floss and slush puppies to provide a second and third burst of energy to revisit the rides.

The function has always been such a success that employees’ children start asking about the Christmas function months in advance, anticipating the fun and games to be had, not forgetting that Santa is always a big hit with the children.  Ian Kiley, our gentle giant, once again played Santa and had the kids squealing with delight as they took their turns to sit on Santa’s lap, huge smiles on their little faces while they received their gifts.

The CEO, Fabrice Cagnat announced staff awards to all of those who had been recognized for their achievement and as each recipient walked forward to receive an award, there were cheers and resounding claps from proud, supportive colleagues and family.    After a very satisfying lunch, the games began with Ian Kiley and the CEO participating against each other in the Sumo wrestling competition, Ian was unfortunately defeated.  Sonia Govender then took on Sean Murphy and after much cheering and shouting from the audience, Sean was hopelessly defeated.  The employees and their spouses lined up for the dunking competition that would result in a prize, a weekend for a couple, if the CEO were dunked and dunked he was, by Chris Cornwell.  Well done Chris, that is twice in a row!

The remainder of the day was enjoyed with music and dancing and ended on a positive note with exhausted children and parents who made their way home….until, the next Christmas party.

Author: Thashini Moodley