The Seahorse Inn south of Eden once again proved to be a successful venue for our end-of-year gathering. People came from as far as Bega in the north, Genoa to the south and Burragate to the west, showing great commitment to our Alliance. Fortunately - after the storms of Saturday - we were blessed with wonderful weather and once the clouds disappeared, we were left with a hot steamy afternoon to complete the final rounds of the pétanque contest.
44 happy Alliance members and friends joined in the festivities and shared the traditional Christmas fare provided by the Seahorse Inn. Formalities were at a minimum and the chatter and wine made for a convivial lunch.
The magnificent Christmas hamper, organized by Fiona Stafford, was won by a very happy Bénédicte Morrow, who couldn't believe her luck. Funds raised by this raffle will go to the Mumbulla Foundation.
We were overwhelmed by the number of pétanque players, however, Kerry Hunting and Neil Porter set a new standard in tournament management.
Pétanque played on grass is quite different to that played on a solid piste, according to the seasoned players, but new chums didn't know the difference. Simon Arlidge, a regular player, and Carmen Coutts-Smith went on to win the Coupe d'Antibes after some very long games and fierce competition against Margaret Gaunson and Clive Roberts.
Membership of our AF is open to anyone with an interest in things French.
Joyeux Noël et Bonne Année
