PM hosts lunch for Queen

Melbourne's gorgeous Royal Exhibition Building was a splendid backdrop as around 1200 guests enjoyed lunch in the presence of Her Majesty the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh, an event hosted by Prime Minister John Howard and Mrs Janette Howard on March 15.

A fanfare heralded the arrival of the official party and guests, including Commonwealth Games athletes, settled down to lunch following the short speeches. Incidental music was provided by the Royal Australian Navy Band and Sarah Storer performed vocal items.

Verdict on the food? Considering the large number of guests, pretty impressive. All delivered smartly and none of that "tired, been standing around for hours" wilting. I checked on who had provided it. Not surprised to learn it was Peter Rowland caterers.

Menu

Lime Marinated King George Whiting served with asparagus and a tomato and mango concasse with a lime and chervil vinaigrette
Moorooduc Devil Bend Chardonnay 2002

Char-Grilled Fillet of Beef served with lemon oil glazed green beans, roasted cherry tomatoes, kipfler potatoes and a madeira jus
Water Wheel Shiraz 2003

Vanilla Pod Ice Cream with sauterne-poached stone fruit and crushed pistachio praline
Tea/Coffee