Flood of Generosity

Published: 22nd January 2011

In the flood ravaged regions of southern Queensland it has been humbling to see the turnout of people willing to help their fellow citizens. Here in the north local food identity Sim Hayward has stirred up a group of people to organise a fund-raising gala dinner event on the 19^th February in aid of the flood victims.

High profile local chefs including Phil Mitchell, Nick Holloway, Grant Jones, and James Saunders have donated their professional time and expertise to create a fabulous four course menu of local produce. Fresh seafood donated by Independent Seafood Producers, Succulent Pork compliments of Morganbury Meats, local vegetables and fruit through Simon George & Son, and other products from Bidvest, Mungalli Creek Dairy, Rainforest Bounty and a number of other food producers; all unequivocally responding with a ‘yes, glad to help’

TAFE has offered the venue as well as their hospitality staff with assistance from Skills 360. Arthur Basha of Barnacle Bills has jumped in to the Maitre‘d’s position and chefs and waiters are coming ‘out of the woodwork’ to help.

At $110.00 per person this is great value with beverage and entertainment included. An auction with some fabulous prizes donated from the business community will make this an exceptionally worthy evening. Bookings can be made through A-List Events on 4031 6200. All proceeds will go to the Premiers Flood Appeal.

Clare Richards, author of Tropical Cuisine contemplated what she could do to support those affected by the floods and decided she has one thing to give – her book. So she has decided to run a silent auction of 10 of her books to raise money.

Here is how it works: bids start at $59.95 and are made on the Silent Auction page of her website, with the highest current bid posted twice daily at 9am and 9pm. The auction (presently underway) closes at 9pm (AEST) on Tuesday 25^th January 2011. All funds will go directly to the Queensland Flood Relief Appeal. For more details go to www.tropicalcuisine.com.au