A MULTICULTURAL long lunch with a difference drew strong local support over the weekend, as The Original Tea Gardens Ferry service transported diners across the water for a relaxed afternoon at Tillermans French restaurant.
A total of 58 guests attended the long lunch, with a further 15 enjoying the heritage ferry vessel and the journey itself, highlighting the growing appeal of combining local dining with a scenic waterway experience.
“The recent long lunch was a memorable experience, combining picturesque scenery with outstanding hospitality,” said attendee Pauline Schein of Shoal Bay.
“From the very beginning, the welcoming ferry crew created a warm atmosphere, sharing engaging and informative commentary about the local waterways as we journeyed toward Tea Gardens.
“Upon arrival, guests enjoyed a delectable four-course lunch at Tillermans, with each dish thoughtfully crafted and beautifully complementing the next.
“The service was smooth, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere and allowing diners to fully savour both the cuisine and the setting.”
Jenny Crossey of Anna Bay added, “It was so nostalgic sitting on the beautiful cedar seating salvaged from an old picture theatre and some rattle trains.
“I particularly enjoyed hearing tales about the ferry’s eclectic restoration including the story about the old brass ship’s wheel which was relegated to adorning the back wall after a lightning strike directly to it, electrocuted the captain, deeming it safer to replace it with a wooden one!”
The iconic MV Tea Gardens, launched in 1945 and now “81 years young”, continues to play a central role in connecting the community.
Ferry General Manager Kerrie Jeffreys believes it is an integral mode of transport and an experience in its own right.
“I stepped aboard for the first time and completely fell in love with these grand old ladies, their history, their character, and the role they play in the community.”
“The harbour, the history, the Myall Lakes, the bow riding dolphin wildlife, it’s all right here,” Kerrie said.
“Seeing it from the water reminds you just how special our backyard really is.”
“Kerrie from the ferry” as she is affectionately known, came into her managing role after an international tour guiding career was halted by COVID.
By Jacie WHITFIELD
You can help your local paper.
Make a small once-off, or (if you can) a regular donation.
We are an independent family owned business and our newspapers are free to collect and our news stories are free online.
Help support us into the future.
