06/08/2006
SKYCITY Delivers Australia's Biggest Outdoor Party
Over 2300 people dined under the stars last night at Australia’s biggest-ever outdoor dining experience, the Qantas Gala Ball.
Featuring world-class entertainment, a sumptuous buffet and a breathtaking fireworks display, the Qantas Gala Ball celebrates the month-long Darwin Cup Carnival and attracts thousands of guests, mostly visitors to the Northern Territory.
SKYCITY Assistant General Manager, Emmanuel Cruz, said the night was a huge success. “It’s great to be able to provide an evening of extravagance for thousands of people in this unique outdoor setting. Darwin really lived up to its reputation by putting on another beautiful sunset and star-filled night for our guests, showcasing NT hospitality on a large scale.”
To give you an indication of just what is involved in an event of this size, the first-class feast required around 7000 oysters, 10,000 prawns, 500 kilograms of beef, 300 kilograms of assorted salads and half a tonne of fruit. The event took twelve months to plan and included a huge fireworks display, around 240 tables and over three kilometres of production cable.
The standard of the event is raised each year and this time was no exception, with the introduction of a special cigar and cognac lounge. Guests were able to relax and watch the spectacular fireworks and musical display from a raised candlelit area, while enjoying quality cognac and cigars.
SKYCITY employs around 350 extra staff to ensure guests are well looked after and high service standards are maintained. “It’s no easy logistical exercise to feed over two thousand people in one hour,” said Mr Cruz. “Our team of expert chefs, wait staff, and production staff deserve a pat on the back for delivering such a high quality event.”
Guests raved about the night, with a highlight being the surprise musical act of Abba-tribute band, Björn Again, who had the crowd up and dancing within minutes of starting their high-energy performance.
“We were rapt to be there,” said Björn Again band member Agnetha Falstart (otherwise known as ‘the blond one’). “We love going to new places and this was especially cool as we got such a great response. From the stage we could see a real excitement in the crowd, it was just awesome.”
The enthusiastic response from the Gala Ball crowd reflected the international success of Björn Again, who have performed around 4500 shows in over 60 countries worldwide. “They are without doubt one of the most entertaining live music shows around, and it was exciting to have them perform in Darwin for the first time,” said Mr Cruz.
The next performer to grace the stage on the SKYCITY Lawns will be Renee Geyer on Sunday 20 August, considered by many to be the finest female voice in Australia. This intimate concert from the Australian music icon will take place under the stars, the perfect surroundings for a magical evening of jazz and classics.
