Teams Press Release.

Not sure of what paper yet, but i am finding out today.

OFFICER MAKES GRAND FINALS IN WILD LIFE COMP

Army Communications Officer Alan Merrick and his snake Blocker have been selected as grand finalists for ‘The Best in Show’ competition, taking place at the Wild Australia Expo on 4 and 5 of September at <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comffice:smarttags" />Darling Harbour. This premier reptile competition will showcase the best-kept specimens of pythons and lizards in NSW as part of an inaugural wildlife exhibition which will feature inspiring displays of native Australian animals, including a 3.5 metre crocodile complete in its own billabong!

Alan’s Coastal Carpet Python is one of just three grand finalists for its specific category and was selected during the recent heats held at Blacktown Showground, which determined who would make it to the ‘Best in Show’ final in September.

“I have always been a keen lover of wildlife and I am really excited to have made it to the finals. I am looking forward to showing Blocker off again,” said Alan.

‘Best in Show’ grand finalists will exhibit their prize specimen in a special feature area of the Wild Australia Expo, with the reptiles judged by a panel of experienced herpetologists and vets according to breed standards devised for each specimen category. There will also be an award for the overall ‘Best In Show Winner’ and a ‘People’s Choice Award’ so that the public can nominate their favourite pet. Winners of the competition will be announced over the duration of the Wild Australia Expo and prizes awarded.

“‘Best in Show’ demonstrates how responsibly caring for reptiles helps people develop a better understanding of nature and ecosystems generally”, said Expo Organiser Anthony Stimson. “Keeping reptiles promotes active participation in the conservation of a much maligned fauna.”

Other attractions on offer at the Wild Australia Expo include exhibition halls featuring native animals, interactive wildlife shows and seminars presented on topics ranging from reptile care to encouraging backyard biodiversity. This exciting Expo gives the public a chance to get up close and personal with Australia’s native wildlife and observe creatures such as snakes, crocodiles, bats, native fish and turtles at close range.

[Bryony]

how'd you do that?
have yo got your pic in the paper to?

They rang me and asked if i minded them doing a story, i said nah go for it. There should be a pic, but im waiting cause i dont even know what paper it is in..lol

[hugsta]

Look out, Shermy and blocker are becoming famous....... :wink:
Well done mate.

[instar]

Well done Al & Blocker

I think Anthony Stimson should be happy, the Aus Army newspaper just told me they are going to cover the event also, by doing an article with my participation in it. Will be good PR for the next years show as the Army rag is Australian wide.

[Nome]

Wow, good on ya Sherman!!! What do you win? Did you get your enclosure for making it to the finals?

Go Block and Alan!!

Thanks guys,
Nome, the enclosure is still with the expo as they are using the same ones for the actual show, but at the end of the show we get to take them home. Nice cages, 3 foot dalbarbs.

[Fuscus]

Well Done TS. Hopefully we get to read a headline like "OFFICERS PYTHON THE BEST"
Best of luck and keep us informed.

[instar]

Your snake might become as famous as Slateys balls!

[craig]

good luck mate!!!!
great article!!!
i am going to try and get my integrade moved to the coastal carpet catagory!!!

[africancichlidau]

Officer Takes His Snake Out In Public............. News at eleven

Well done Shermie, bet those RAAFies don't get a headline like that

[Jonny]

Thats awesome Shermy!!!
Good publicity for Reptiles and the Army
Goes to show that army blokes just arnt interesting in blowing ***** up! :wink:

Well done mate, thinking of selling blocker? i'm always here mate.

nah its cool, if he wins, i will rent him out to stud....$500 a pop. LOL