Soupolympics attract big crowd
WITH an attendance that almost out-did the swimming in London, the Grafton Regional Gallery's Soupolympics attracted an eager crowd of about 120, keen to dive into some of the best soup creations the Valley had to offer.
The blissfully perfect weather, warm pots of gourmet goodness and toasty breads, teamed with friendly banter in the surrounds of the gallery's charming courtyard proved a big drawcard.
"It's been one of our biggest yet," Gallery director Jude McBean said of the annual Friends of the Gallery fundraiser.
"It's a nice way to gather for a few hours. Something you can bring your mum to."
Ms McBean said the MC, Mayor Richie Williamson, enjoyed himself, even supplying some of his home-baked bread to share.
Popular soups included No. 1 Duke Street's baked root vegetable and the Village Green's parsnip and bacon combination.
The first pot to empty was Alchemy's aptly titled Marathon kumera soup.
The success of the event has renewed the enthusiasm of the FOGG.
Initially bookings were slow to start with about 30 early in the week but by Friday there were 120 confirmed.
"The Examiner's story certainly livened them up," Ms McBean said.
