In partnership with travla beer we are thrilled to announce Queenslander Bill Farquhar as our lucky ‘Escape with Mates’ winner for an all-inclusive getaway with him and 20 of his mates. Bill is a retired radiographer and fishing enthusiast who talked to us about how it felt to win the trip of a lifetime at Tiwi Island Retreat!

“When I got the call telling me I’d won, I was sceptical at first—thinking it was some kind of marketing gimmick. But it turned out to be the real deal, and what a call it was! I first heard about the competition online and it caught my attention straight away. I’ve always loved fishing and had seen the Tiwi Islands featured on fishing shows, so the idea of visiting such an incredible spot was hard to resist. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d win, but here I am, gearing up for the trip of a lifetime with 20 of my closest friends and family.

Breaking the news to my wife, Anne, was a moment to remember. She didn’t even know I’d entered! Of course, she’s coming along, and our three kids—who are all grown up now—will be joining us too. My son, who lives in Darwin, is particularly excited. He loves fishing and beer as much as I do, so this trip is a dream come true for both of us.

Choosing the rest of the group wasn’t too hard. I wanted people who love fishing and would enjoy the experience together. Deep-sea fishing and estuary fishing for barramundi are what I’m most looking forward to. I’ve only fished for barramundi once before, in the Northern Territory, and it was unforgettable. Doing it again in a place like Tiwi Island Retreat will be something else entirely.

It’s not just about fishing, though. The Retreat promises so much more — helicopter rides, cultural experiences, amazing food, and of course, travla beer. I’ve yet to try travla, but my son speaks highly of it, so I’ll definitely be giving it a good go while we’re there!

This trip is especially exciting because it’s a rare chance for my family to come together. We’re scattered across the country, so moments like this don’t happen often. I’m beyond grateful to Tiwi Island Retreat and travla beer – and everyone involved in making this competition happen. It’s not every day you get to visit a place you’ve dreamed of for years, and I can’t thank them enough.”

The Tiwi Islands, have long been a bucket-list destination, says Bill, and to competition organisers he has one heartfelt message. “I’m so grateful for this opportunity. I’m just very pleased that I was chosen, and it’s an area that I have seen a lot of never thought I’d get to, and can’t wait to get there. So, thanks very much to everyone for putting it on. It’s wonderful. Thank you.” Describing his excitement in one phrase, Bill says he, ‘can’t bloody wait’!