MAGGIE Cunich from Bulahdelah was one of three lucky winners of the recent News of the Area Taronga Zoo Competition.

The competition involved submitting a picture of yourself with a pet, a copy of the News of the Area, a Newsstand or any combination of these.

Maggie was “so excited’ when News of the Area informed her she had won a family pass to the Zoo.

“I was so happy that I just felt like screaming, I have never been to Taronga Zoo before,” she said.

“I love animals and can’t wait to go because it will be so much fun.”

Maggie said as soon as she read about the competition in the paper, she immediately set to work on capturing her winning entry.

“Mum and I tried getting a photo with my favourite dog Rio outside, but he just wouldn’t settle,” Maggie explained.

“We brought Rio inside but he still wouldn’t sit long enough to read the News of the Area with me.”

Maggie said the trick was “a lot patience and cuddle on a bean bag in front of the fire.”

“I was really happy with the picture we finally got and I was pleased with Rio as well.”

Maggie has two other dogs named Ruff Ruff and Reg as well as three guinea pigs.

The bubbly ten-year old said she always reads News of the Area and particularly likes the competitions.

“I entered the Reptile Park colouring competition earlier in the year, I didn’t win but I still liked entering,” she said.

“I like the competitions because I can be creative and it’s a whole lot of fun.”

Maggie and her family are looking forward to visiting Taronga Zoo in the coming weeks.

“I can’t wait to see the African Elephants, Zebras, Echidnas and Penguins because I have only ever seen them in books before,” Maggie said.

“Thank you News of the Area for picking my entry and giving me this amazing experience.”

The family passes are valued at over $130 each.

 

By Daniel SAHYOUN