Have you ever thought about a leisurely long lunch in Hill End? No need to rush, just sit back and relish the ambience of the bush surroundings whilst enjoying a 6 course gourmet lunch, including wine, and be entertained by guest speakers, music and the natural environment.
Well, here is your opportunity. Gather your friends and join “friends we have yet to meet” to enjoy the culinary and alcoholic delights of the region in the relaxed atmosphere of the Hill End Ranch.
On Saturday 5th September 2015 we will be honouring Australia’s first “Celebrity Chef” whilst taking in the beauty of the Turon Valley.
Hannah Maclurcan (nee Phillips) was born in Tambaroora in 1860 and was a successful Cookbook Writer/Chef/Hotelier. In 1898 she wrote Hannah Maclurcan’s Cookery Book: A Collection of Practical Recipes Specially Suited to Australia. After owning several hotels in Queensland, Hannah moved to Sydney and together with her husband as licensee they bought the Wentworth Hotel in Sydney in 1901.
When her husband died a few years later Hannah continued to raise a family and manage the Hotel on her own. Travelling the world Hannah brought back ideas to improve the Hotel and present a new concept of hospitality, including ornamental gifts for her guests. In 1912 Hannah listed the Wentworth on the stock exchange to raise funds for renovations.
During this time Hannah funded a glossy magazine called “The Wentworth” which promoted Sydney as a tourist destination and spoke of food and wine and happenings in the Hotel. Hannah hosted numerous charity functions at the Wentworth Hotel for children, returned servicemen, The Salvation Army, and the RSPCA just to name a few. She remained as Governing Director of the board until her death in 1936.
There are a large number of Hill End locals on board for this event and seats at Hannah’s table are strictly limited to 60 places to ensure that everyone can enjoy the occasion to the fullest. Appropriate music throughout the afternoon will be provided by Jason & Chloe Roweth from Millthorpe. (check them out at http://www.rowethmusic.com.au/Site/Home.html)
Karen has created a menu inspired by Hannah’s cookbook, sourcing local produce wherever possible, and with Sue & Steve Rattray (ex Hosie’s) looking after dessert we know we will be in for a gastronomic extravaganza. Appropriate wines and liquid refreshments are included and will also be served during the afternoon.
In the true spirit of Hannah Maclurcan all profits from this event will go towards the Royal Hall Photographic Restoration Fund.
This all-inclusive event will cost around $130 per head. As it is planned to run from midday until around 5pm we suggest that you consider staying the Saturday night in Hill End and then enjoy the ambiance of the town on Sunday before heading back to the real world.
As accommodation is limited in town we recommend you make a booking there soon to avoid disappointment. Contact the Hill End Ranch, (02) 6337 8224, The Royal Hotel (02) 6337 8261, The Hill End Lodge Motel (02) 6337 8200, to see what they have available. There is always plenty of powered camping and caravan spaces at the NPWS campsites too, as well as nearby B&Bs too.
Bookings & payment can be made on the secure website at Trybooking – Hannah’s Long Lunch
If you would like any further details then contact Karen at hannahslonglunch@gmail.com or phone her on 0412464578.
