Sunday, October 3, saw a good crowd of members and friends of the New South Wales Branch head to the Southern Highlands for a celebration lunch to remember the anniversary of Richard III’s birthday on October 2, 1452.  Joining them there were those from Mittagong, Bowral and Bundanoon, as well as a contingent from Canberra, and a special overseas friend:  Babs Creamer, Secretary of the Dorset Group of the Richard III Society in the UK.

The weather was truly dreadful, but the continuous downpour did nothing to dampen our spirits from the moment we arrived at the Sutton Forest Inn and entered the bar lounge where a boar’s head on the wall made us feel quite at home.  (Memo to management: it should have been a white boar to be perfect!).

When we were all assembled we headed into the delightful bistro dining room – large, and light-filled, overlooking the paddocks beyond, with warm timber tables and chairs – and a glorious log fire.  Outside the covered stage for the jazz festival was assembled and a local winery had its wares ready for tasting.

Ricardians however concentrated on the magnificent menu, agonising over which delicious sounding dish to select- and all our choices were pronounced wonderful, beautifully cooked and presented.  Little wonder that only a few brave souls went on to sample those delicious desserts.  Chocolate sherry mousse anyone?

With a huge amount of guests for the afternoon, the wait staff did their cheerful best to deliver our choices and most of us wondered how the unseen geniuses in the kitchen were coping with the demand.

We all had a great time, with the usual good conversation and laughter throughout.  The general consensus: we’ll be back!

Tags: NSW Branch, Richard III