AUSTRALIA—Fourteen members of the Perth congregation of the Philadelphia Church of God went on an excursion on December 11 to Penguin Island, just off the coast of Rockingham, Western Australia.

“It was a very enjoyable day throughout,” member Ivor Stockwell said. “The picnic was great, and it benefited us having a walk around the island, observing the rock formations that the winds and tides have carved out.”

The island is part of an archipelago that is accessible by ferry or by swimming. It is the only island open to the public. Fairy penguins (also known as little penguins) are the main attraction, but they were rarely seen by the group, as the birds hid under the wooden walkways and in the undergrowth covering the island.

The group also toured a rehabilitation center for orphaned and sick penguins, hearing a short, informative talk about the survival tactics and the traits of fairy penguins.

With the predicted rain staying off the coast, members were able to have a warm but cloudy day at the island as they kept their eyes peeled for a glimpse of the elusive creatures that gave it its name.

“I enjoyed a lovely day spent with brethren; it helped bond us together…” member Cheryl Jacobs said. “[W]e all have to be close to really help each other, and these kinds of activities —and we need more of them—really help us to achieve close family unity.”