Thank you Debra Yin Foo and Warren Johnson on providing a report on this year's Senior's Lunch. Although the weather on the day was a bit overcast it didn't dampen the overall experience on Thursday 16 November 23 at Red Hill (Max's Restaurant). A fun day was had by all.
At 10am on Thursday 16th November the coach pulled away from its final loading point, heading for the Red Hill Estate Vineyard. The vineyard was once owned by Rotarian Sir Peter Derham but is now run and owned by Max Paganoni who also runs Max’s Restaurant situated on the vineyard and renowned as one of the best restaurants on the Mornington Peninsula. He is a great supporter of the event and has been recognised with an award from the Club. The first lunch dates back to 2003.
On board the coach were a party of 30 elderly citizens who live in supported accommodation in the high rise flats of Flemington, Kensington and Carlton. Many of these folk are socially isolated but are fit enough to enjoy outings and an opportunity to get out of the Melbourne CBD. In addition to the senior citizens, was President Chris Sotiropoulos, enjoying the ride and getting to know these interesting folk.
At 11.30am the coach arrived and off loaded the passengers at Max’s Restaurant where they were met by a group representing Rotary Melbourne including: Past President Adrian Nelson, Bruce Davidson who runs the Footy Tipping Competition which raises the funds for the lunch, and his partner Briony, as well as Debra Yin Foo who is our honorary photographer for the day and her husband David and finally Warren Johnson convenor with his wife Gillian.
The laughter started as the folk stepped out of the coach and met a line of Rotarians eager to shake their hands and welcome them. It took a while to sort out whose “walker” belonged to who!
Tea and Coffee were served, unfortunately not on the terrace due to the weather, but in the restaurant where there was plenty of room to get together. A two course meal of Salmon and salad followed by chocolate mousse was dispatched with great speed which left time for a stroll in the garden and much photography.
All this time there was a wonderful mixing in the room and many stories related and exchanged.
As the coach departed there was much waving in appreciation and delight that they were going to stop off at Arthur’s Seat on their journey back to Melbourne.
Click here to see photo gallery.
Warren Johnson
