February 29th 2008 saw the World’s Longest Lunch held in the spectacular Geelong Botanic Gardens, raising funds for the Paediatric Unit in the new Emergency Department at Geelong Hospital.

Top local chefs served up a four-course feast to 200 diners with each course accompanied by wines from some of the region’s most renowned wineries. Diners enjoyed delectable canapes, followed by an entree of marinated salmon, braised lamb forequarters for main and a delicious almond tuille filled with sweet spiced marscapone.

             Above: Guests gather at the Geelong Botanic Gardens             Above: The entrees plated and ready to be enjoyed

Restaurants represented included Fishermen’s Pier, 2 faces, Truffleduck, Empire Grill, Pettavel Winery & Restaurant, Tigerella and the Torquay Hotel. The wineries who kindly supplied the wine for the day were Pettavel Winery & Restaurant, Jindalee Estate, Kurabana Wines and Brown Magpie wines.

The highlight of the day was the Take Home Chefs Auction that gave guests the opportunity to purchase a unique culinary experience kindly donated by the chefs involved in the event. The items ranged from dinners at top restaurants, to chauffeured shopping tours with a chef, cooking classes and a tour of the Yarra Valley. Almost $25,000 was raised from the auction alone.

Diners enjoying the 2008 lunch

Proceeds from the day, totalling over $35,000, will go to the Paediatric Unit in the new Emergency Department.

The Barwon Health Foundation thanks all of its supporters and suppliers and in particular major sponsors Penny’s Prime Meats, Geelong Fresh Foods, Adams Print and DDG for their support in 2008.