Diana Franklin was the host and quiz master; John Neighbours, quiz enthusiast;
Cassy and friends
A spectacular Winter Wonderland greeted members and guests on Saturday night 25 July as Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club celebrated its Mid-Winter Christmas function in style.
More than 130 attended the sold-out event, with the clubrooms transformed into a dazzling sea of blue and silver. The stunning centrepiece of the evening was a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, generously presented by Penny’s Christmas, creating the perfect festive atmosphere.
Beverley Sheppard, Rhiannon Dowling and Kev Jones, the Santa team behind the bar and serving the meals; The fishing club’s mid-winter Christmas hosts, Bruce and Diana Franklin.
The popularity of the event was evident, with tickets selling out shortly after going on sale. Adding to the excitement was a door prize generously sponsored by Guthrie Bowron.
The evening began with a lively Christmas trivia quiz that had teams scratching their heads over festive traditions they thought they knew so well. After plenty of laughter and friendly competition, congratulations went to Ron Logan’s team, Bad Santa, who claimed the winning prize.
Guests then enjoyed a delicious Christmas-themed buffet prepared by new Chef Sanil. The meal was rounded off with freshly baked sticky date pudding and festively decorated pavlova – more than enough to test the waistbands of the many Christmas-themed outfits on display.
Live entertainment from Phil Hart and Hanna Sharps kept the dance floor buzzing throughout the evening, with enthusiastic dancers making the most of every song before the final tunes brought the night to a close at 11.00pm.
The Mid-Winter Christmas celebration was a wonderful success, bringing people together for an evening filled with great food, music, laughter, and festive spirit.
It was another memorable event for MBGFC and a testament to the hard work and dedication of the club’s volunteers, committee members, and staff, whose efforts behind the scenes made the evening such an outstanding occasion.
The event also provided the perfect opportunity to welcome back returning Manager Alan Proctor, whose leadership, alongside new Chef Sanil and the dedicated team of volunteers, helped create a truly memorable celebration.
Judging by the smiles, laughter, and full dance floor throughout the night, it was an evening that will be fondly remembered by all who attended.
