menu

Australia Gala Dinner

Bailliage of Australia
Sydney, December 10, 2018

Business and pleasure mixed perfectly
" It was extremely pleasing that members we hadn't seen for a while joined us "

Vice-Argentier Ralf Bruegger put on a fabulous show at the InterContinental Double Bay Hotel where he is General Manager.

Formal Chaîne business was taken care of during our AGM, followed by delicious amuse-bouches accompanied by Mumm Champagne.

The room and the tables looked gorgeous reflecting the understated luxury and elegance of the five-star hotel. The five-course dinner, with most generous portions, was well balanced. Every dish was delicious being much appreciated by the guests. The wine pairing was outstanding, matching each course perfectly. The generous quantities meant quite a few bottles remained untouched.

In addition to many of our regular members we welcomed an unusually large number of their guests. We are hopeful that they enjoyed themselves sufficiently to sign up as new members! It was extremely pleasing that members we hadn’t seen for a while joined us. Welcome back.

Silent and live [new addition for 2018] auctions brought about much excitement caused by numerous bidders’ competitive spirit. The money raised was substantial as everyone bid most generously for which we are most appreciative. It will assist in running our local Bailliage Jeunes Sommeliers and Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competitions in 2019, an important part of our activities which assists and mentors the young professionals of the future.

Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Chaîne’s Commandeur badge for 20 years of continuous membership to NSW Vice-Argentier Ralf Bruegger by Chancelier Sam Giddings.

Originally from Germany, Ralf is both a chef and a hotelier by profession. He joined the Chaîne as a professional member in Australia in 1998 serving with distinction in a number of capacities. In particular he served on the National Council between 2006 and 2011 as Conseiller Culinaire responsible for running the National Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs Competition.

A special thank you went to Daniella Lauricella, our delightful winner of the NSW Jeunes Sommeliers Competition in 2017, who agreed to go along with our innovative idea to be auctioned off to act as a sommelier at the winning bidder’s private dinner party.

Photos courtesy of Christopher de Doby, Chargé de Missions

Search in map