We all recognise them as the face of our Holiday Park. Their distinct orange arms are everywhere. You can’t miss them! And they love to make an appearance at special events, especially when there is a camera crew around! But behind all the high-fives and holiday selfies, you might be wondering who really IS Sonny the Starfish? What makes them tick? Do they ever get tired of the limelight?
Notoriously quiet, Sonny reveals what life’s really like as the coastal ambassador for South Australia’s largest and most loved Holiday Park in this exclusive interview. While they admit that the pressure can get to them, especially during peak season, they couldn’t imagine life as a mascot any other way.
Well, I come from the Southern Ocean, and I love living in intertidal zones — tide pools, shallow reefs, rocky shores… anywhere I can soak up the salty vibes!
And here’s a fun fact: despite my name, I’m not a fish. I’m an invertebrate! But “Sonny the Invertebrate” didn’t have quite the same ring to it.
When I’m not greeting guests or posing for photos, you can usually find me splashing around the lagoon pool or toddler pool. Water is my happy place.
I’m so glad you asked! I’m much more than just a cute orange face.
I’m a symbol, a storyteller, and your friendly guide to everything fun at West Beach Parks. My job is to help bring the joy, imagination and summery magic that families — especially kids — look forward to when they come to stay with us.
Oh, I am SO lucky — I get to work with my best friends every single day! There are 11 of us in total, and every one of my friends has their own special personality and role in making the park the most exciting place for our youngest guests.
Helping guests find their way around the park!
Our bright mascot signs, colourful artworks and the cabins named after us help kids recognise where they are. No little guest should ever feel lost — that’s just not fun.
I also absolutely love being part of the treasure-hunt map, plus the storybook and colouring book that every guest receives when they arrive. Seeing kids run around, discovering clues or colouring in my friends? Pure joy.
Oh, definitely the brand-new toddler pool and splash zone upgrades! They’re coming along swimmingly, and I think they’ll be ready for a test run before Christmas. Just in time for all our school-holiday families — and with the warmer weather finally kicking in, the timing couldn’t be better.
Nope, the Holiday Park is my one and only home! With the lagoon pool, Central Park, new outdoor cinema and friendly families everywhere, why would I ever want to leave? Everything I need — fun, friends, sunshine and salty breezes — is right here.
Plus, staying in the park means I’m always ready to welcome new guests the moment they arrive. I love being part of their holiday from start to finish!