Maybe the French Tricolour fluttering from our Flagpole was a giveaway, but there was certainly some French Feel in the air. Quite some, to be sure.

Wow! What a set up. French flag, bunting, red, white and blue balloons. You would have been forgiven had you thought the Western Bulldogs were celebrating another premiership win. JP and Di have to be applauded for the amount of effort and contribution they applied to the decorations on the evening. Did you see the mini Tours de Eiffel? And what about those individual labels on the charcuterie plates. The Presentation on the TV as well. All Excellent

The guests began to arrive, to be welcomed with a Glass of French Bubbles and a view of the whole Bistro setting, tablecloths and colours. Some subtle French Cafe Jazz in the background and all in a heated environment. We now have working heaters.

After officially opening the evening the mood of the night was set with a resounding game of. "Berets and Derrieres". It would have made more sense if the Host could get them sorted and even pronounce them correctly, but oh well. A bit of fun to start the night

The charcuterie plates appeared with a fantastic selection of Variety of Pates, Cheeses, cornichons, smoked tomatoes and saucisson With acres of Baguette on the side. Wasn’t that Roquefort Blue to die for?

L’Accordionista, Helmut, expanded on the atmosphere with his colourful renditions of many French Favourites. Please Note, Helmut’s services were provided completely by Gerald Georges. Thank you Gerald

The break between this course and the main had an enlightening and fun quiz game introduced by Leigh - 
Did you know that live snails have to have a ticket when travelling by train in La Belle France? There was so much we learned and enjoyed from that session.

Then the Plats de Jour; Boeuf Bourguignon, Cassoulet, Ratatouille, and a leafy Salad….and more Baguette

There was dancing, more games, singing, Gerald in fine form particularly, more music then the Piece de resistance…..desserts, by our Own Greg Harris.

Profiteroles and Fruit Tarts. (As an aside, Greg nearly had palpitations when told that the birds had found his desserts in the open office Fortunately that was not true.)

Throughout the evening there was a display of Champagne cork Caps, courtesy of Rex. And a magnificent collection of Menus from the 1980-90s from some of Frances best restaurants, provided by David Newton. It was also revealed that David is a Chevalier de Ordre national du Mérite. This is one of the highest Civilian Honours that can be award in France. An Honour indeed to have this Knight amongst us.

The food was supplied through Lionels Products. Many members took advantage of purchasing products available for sale and on display.

Of course a function like this doesn’t "just’ happen. It certainly is a team event. And what a team! All of whom should be mentioned, but this writer is afraid to do that in case someone is missed out accidentally. It does show though that the reputation this Club has for it’s Friendliness and social interaction is second to none. Even at the end of the evening, without being asked, everyone helped pack up, clean up or assist in some way.

I will  have ago at naming names, because you all deserve recognition for such a great job. (Please forgive me if I missed you.)

Without hesitation and with much pride I personally would like to thank Kathy for her role and leadership in the creation and organising of this event.

Then with many an accolade: JP, Di, Bernie, Denis, Elaine, Faye, Gerald, Gillie, Kaye, Marion, Myriam, Noella, Gordana, Greg Harris, John Muscat, Jude, Leigh, Margaret Young, Mary Muscat, Michael Young, Pam, Paul, Rosie, Vikki Martin, Vin & Rosemary.
Thank you all

Oh BTW, did you notice the wooden Club table numbers and the timber serving platters. They are now part of our club equipment.

What a great Club we are.

For more images CLICK HERE