JULY 2026 – ENCHANTING WALK ON THE WILD SIDE AT BIOPARC IN FUENGIROLA

The summer meeting of the Costa Press Club was held at Bioparc in Fuengirola, where official proceedings included an “Open Mic” session (dubbed “Open Jaw” for the occasion). However most members took advantage of a prior tour of the tropical gardens and a viewing of the wild inmates, and stayed on afterwards for the night show of mammals and birds.

The cocktail-style supper on the terrace featured talks by several participants on subjects of their choosing, compered by club president Neil Hesketh, who also offered a warm welcome to new members.

The “Open Jaw” talks were necessarily brief, but illuminating. David Tweed described his unexpected affiliation to St George’s church in Málaga and his fundraising efforts, and invited everyone, Anglican or otherwise, to go along to a Sunday service. He was followed by novelist Joan Fallon, who shared the joy of her transition from successful self-publishing to working with a traditional publisher.

Ophelia Smith, the new president of Age Concern Marbella and San Pedro, appealed to the international media for coverage of the charity’s activities, adding that it needs support and sponsorship in order to continue helping vulnerable older residents.

Representing Manilva Life magazine, new member Anna Glowinski advocated for the vital role of grassroots journalism. She emphasized that her publication prioritises deep community engagement and local information over sensationalised clickbait-type headlines.

Kimlan Cook, vice president of the Arts Society Costa del Sol, spoke about her organisation, which also has a branch in Nerja, and invited art enthusiasts to attend a lecture either in person or online.

Finally, Nicole King announced the themes for the upcoming Internationalities event scheduled for 3 November.

Text by Liz Parry

Photos by Karl Smallman

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