On the 1st of August, Barossa Village held its “Our Barossa Family Dinner” event at its Residency facility in Nuriootpa. Several of our residents and their families enjoyed the much-anticipated event. Reminiscent of the culinary experience that they had grown up with in the Barossa Valley, it showcased local wines and produce from Langmeil Wines, Max and Me, Rockford Wines and Maggie Beer in a safe and supported environment.

The event held profound significance, featuring a carefully curated menu that not only delighted the senses but also thoughtfully accommodated the unique preferences and needs of the residents—offering an experience previously unattainable in conventional restaurant settings.

As a collaborative undertaking, Barossa Village Board Member, community figure, and advocate for positive ageing Barb Storey brought together renowned Barossa winemakers and other producers, along with a featured chef, all of who volunteered or donated their time and produce, to create an experience that meant as much for those people that made graciously compassionate contributions as it did for those that attended.

Barossa Chef Mark McNamara, who led the events catering, ably supported by Barossa Villages’ own hospitality team members, had high expectations. Stated, “I wanted it to be a restaurant quality meal that brought people together in a way that they can’t normally achieve…”.

The evening was set for success, with the Residency converted to give it the character and setting of a 5-star restaurant. The result was remarkable – an evening that met and exceeded those high expectations.

The menu, a masterpiece of culinary innovation, was a journey through flavours and textures. Beginning with the exquisite Maggie Beer Pheasant Farm Pate adorned with fresh Barossa Truffle, the indulgence continued with the creamy Smoked Salmon, Leeks, Potatoes & Chervil Chowder as the entrée. The main course featured a slow-roast marvel: a 12-hour Slow Roast Shoulder of Lamb accompanied by Creamed Celeriac, Buttered Baby Carrots & Broccolini, followed by a delectable dessert of Caramel Flan adorned with Poached Rhubarb. Evening service finished with the refreshing notes of Persimmon & Young Ginger Fruit Jellies, leaving an indelible mark on the palate.

Barossa Village Resident Mr Alan Hall said, “The food was spectacular; a step above,” and Mr and Mrs Bob and Alva King responded, “We really appreciated the opportunity to have a special dining experience with our adult children”, hoping that they get the chance to do it again really soon. A highlight of the evening was a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday for Mrs Edna Kuchel, who had turned 99 years young.

Mark says he left with much more than what he gave.

“It felt good to walk into a room and feel the energy of a group of people that were connecting and enjoying something special that I had had the opportunity to be a part of. It was clear that it would be a challenge for many guests to have this experience, but to hear the positive affirmations from family members makes making the contribution worth it.”

The family dinner event was not just about having a meal out. Matt Kowald, Residency General Manager, highlights, “It was great to be able to give something special back to people who were instrumental in making our community the remarkable place it is today” in doing so, so much more was achieved: creating opportunity for families to connect through an experience that has been lost; the shared learning of the challenges and opportunities for Aged Care dining; and above all the heartfelt sense of pride that was amassed by those that created the event and compassionately donated their time to bring this experience to life.

Thank you to all who contributed their time and compassion, making this event a heartwarming success!