The tranquil eucalypt surroundings won’t be the only thing for guests to savour at Bannisters Pavilion come late September. The boutique hotel has partnered with Paul West from the renowned foodie television series River Cottage Australia for a two-day gourmet Experience Series.
Launching on the weekend of 25 September, the event will showcase local Shoalhaven producers and treat guests to a paddock-to-plate experience. Hosted by West, the foodie getaway begins with a visit to Ralston Brothers Oysters aboard a flat-bottom boat on the Clyde River. Here guests will meet fifth-generation local oyster farmer Ben Ralston and go on to an oyster grading and tasting experience with matched wines at the oyster shed.
Post-oyster indulgence, Indigenous elder and horticulturist Noel Butler will lead a bush trail walk where visitors will learn about native bush foods. The gourmet escape will culminate in a three-course dinner at Bannisters Pavilion. Collaborating with Bannisters Chef Gareth Sykes, West will plate up a gastronomic spread of local produce complemented by matching wines.
Opened in late 2015, the 33-suite and two-penthouse property located a short stroll from Mollymook Beach is promoting a strong association with local suppliers. The Experience Series is an expansion of the brand’s “paddock-to-plate and from dock-to-dish” ethos and features an upcoming calendar of events featuring cheese masterclasses with Will Stud and Simon Johnson and a night with English celebrity chef Rick Stein.
The Paul West escape is inclusive of gourmet experiences, two nights’ accommodation at Bannisters Pavilion, a signed copy of Paul West’s book, The River Cottage Australia Cookbook and a voucher valued at $195 to spend at either Bannisters Pavilion or the sister property Bannisters by the Sea.