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Melbourne’s top chefs and the world’s greatest tennis players mixed gourmet food, sports and glamour last night at the 4th Annual Melbourne Swisse Taste of Tennis Event held at the Grand Hyatt Hotel.  This unique experience of fine food paired with elite athletes attracted celebrities of all walks.

Guests rubbed shoulders with some of the greatest names in tennis including Lleyton Hewitt, Marion Bartoli, Australia’s No. 1 Women’s Doubles Players Anastasia & Arina Rodionova, Samuel Groth, Horia Tecau, Casey Dellacqua, Anabel Medina Garrigues, legends Pat Cash and Ivan Llendl to name a few.

Celebrity Chef George Calombaris (“MasterChef Australia”, The Press Club, Mama Baba) led the way with a special presentation paired with Lleyton Hewitt before being joined by an elite group of culinary experts including Adam D’Sylva (Coda), Ian Curley (European), Shaun Presland (Saké Restaurant & Bar), Matt Germanchis (Pei Modern), Kevin Middleton (Mama Baba), Riccardo Momesso (Sarti), Philippe Mouchel (P M 24), Scott Pickett (

Estelle Bar & Kitchen), Perry Schagen (The Graham Hotel), Justin Wise (The Point), Markus Werner (Olympic Park at Delaware North Companies), Yasu Yoshida (Ocha), Jim McDougall (Stefano’s), Shane McCallum (Captain Melville), and Owen Scungio (Silk Road Restaurant). Pastry masters Pierrick Boyer (Le Petit Gâteau) and Tim Clark (Cacao Fine Chocolates & Patisserie) also participated alongside the Grand Hyatt’s very own Executive Chef Jason Camillo (Collins Kitchen)

Chefs and players also graciously donated autographed merchandise, luxury goods and dinner packages in a silent auction that successful raised money for two Australia based charities of choice:  Diabetes Australia – Victoria and National Institute of Integrative Medicine (NIIM).

Other major attractions on the night were the display of the Australian Open‘s Men’s & Women’s Cups, a Wolf Blass Eagle Ice Sculpture and a theatrical show from the Silk Road mixologists who created their signature Tia Maria Espresso Martini & Open Flame Cocktail.

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SALUTING THE ‘SPORT OF KINGS’ AT THE WORLD’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS POLO EVENT  

Royal Salute has expanded their World Polo Programme to become a sponsor of The 2012 Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo (Argentine Polo Open Championship), marking their commitment to the ‘Sport of Kings’ in polo today, and for the future. The Argentine Open is the world’s leading high-handicap tournament, which takes place in the picturesque borough of Palermo (Catedral del Polo) in Buenos Aires, between 17th November – 8th December.  Royal Salute will offer the discerning gentlemen a true luxurious experience paying homage to the patrons and players, the true kings of polo today.

This historic 40-goal event brings to life the ‘Kings’ of polo today by attracting the best players and patrons from around the globe, riding the very best horses and all wanting to win the prestigious title of ‘best polo team in the world’. Demonstrating unbelievable skill and sportsmanship from world class players, who will battle it out, in what is anticipated to be the most exciting final of the polo season.

Established as the oldest championship in the world and still remaining to draw an international crowd of over 20,000 people, Royal Salute is proud to be part of the 119th Argentine Polo Open Championship 2012.

Neil Macdonald, Global Brand Director for Royal Salute, commented: “As the world’s leading prestige Scotch whisky, we believe Royal Salute is the perfect partner for “the sport of kings” and through our new sponsorship of the Argentine Open we will bring this to life. The Royal Salute team is extremely excited to be a part of such a historic event in polo and look forward to becoming a permanent figure in the world of polo for the future.”

Royal Salute’s commitment to international polo is ever growing, with sponsorships of some of the world’s most prestigious polo events across America, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East. Royal Salute World Polo programme continues, with the 119 Campeonato Argentino Abierto de Polo December.

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The clouds and rain cleared and the sun shone on the seventh Paspaley Polo in the City, held on Saturday 17 November in Centennial Park.
Paspaley, who have been the series’ presenting sponsor for six years, upped the ante this year with an exciting new fixture in the centre of the field-side action – an amazing double storey structure built from three recycled shipping containers in the brand’s signature mango yellow, with a walk-in jetty, polo viewing decks, a Paspaley pearl meat and oyster bar and decor inspired by the Kimberley, the birthplace of Paspaley. The Paspaley marquee was the magnet for off-field action, with Paspaley family members Peter Bracher, Mike Bracher, Clare Paspaley, Chris Paspaley and Christine Salter, joined by VIP guests Ashley Hart, Nikki Phillips, Hoda Waterhouse, Juliana Forge, Kym Ellery, Phoebe Tonkin, Sally Obermeder, Pip Edwards along with Swans team members Ted Richards and Adam Goodes.
Veuve Clicquot flowed in all the top marquees and Veuve Clicquot ambassador Rob Archibald, voted one of the world’s hottest polo players by Vanity Fair, added his rugged charm to proceedings. With English import, girlfriend Francesca Cumani, they were undoubtedly the day’s most glamorous couple.

A new addition to this year’s excitement was the Land Rover Polo Picnic, a casual-chic marquee filled with elegant cars and even more elegant guests, including Jennifer Hawkins, Sarah-Jane Clarke, Heidi Middleton, Cheyenne Tozzi, Gail Elliott, Terry Biviano, Ashley Cheadle, Phil Waugh, Tim & Charlotte Holmes á Court, and Land Rover polo ambassador Ruki Baillieu.

source: news.com.au

22nd Monaco Yacht Show: the largest floating exhibition of mega yachts in Europe

This year once again, Monaco is proud to host one of the most prestigious pleasure boat shows with 500 selected exhibitors showcasing the most unique and luxurious yachts the world has ever seen.
The Principality of Monaco has long been a major destination for the yachting world, both as home port and favourite port of call for owners and their superyachts, as well as the headquarters of many boat designers and the big brokers. The Yacht Club de Monaco unites many of the world’s most prestigious yachts under its burgee, including a quarter of those featured in the 100 biggest private yacht list, and occupies a unique position in the international luxury yachting sector.
From 19 to 22 September Monaco’s famous ‘Port Hercules’ will bring together around 28,000 professionals and private visitors with leaders in the international yachting sector including the most important builders, designers, suppliers and providers who are given the opportunity of facing an important international clientele at this exclusive Yacht event. The exhibitors present top quality services and products whose expertise is recognized by the industry.

With more than 100 exceptional super and mega yachts – of these 40 being exhibited for the very first time – this year’s show is not to be missed by those who have a passion for luxury yachting and would like to meet the top managers of leading international super yacht companies directly, or discover products with all the latest technologies and luxury services in yachting-related activities. This year’s Monaco Yacht Show is expected to enjoy great popularity with a wide international audience from 38 countries.
On this occasion Monaco Yacht Club is also delighted to announce the exciting news that their Norman Foster designed new clubhouse building is close to completion. It will include the clubhouse, restaurants, bars, meeting rooms, a pool and a car park with around 150 spaces. The shell is already close to completion and the glass façade will be ready in autumn when the finishing works can begin. Delivery of this new building represents one of the major milestones in the restructuring of the physiognomy of the harbour. Completion of this architectural gem symbolises the Principality’s ambition to confirm its role as the world capital of yachting.
During the Monaco Yacht Show, many exhibiting companies are organizing cocktails, evening events or dinners at their stands, yachts and at prestigious venues in Monte Carlo, for their customers and professional contacts (by invitation only).Whilst the Yacht Show is the actual highlight, there will also be a list of related events supported by the Monaco Yacht Show.
Two of the many program highlights include:
- The Captain’s Party: 21 September 2012 (Le Méridien Beach Plaza): An evening party for all yacht captains and exhibitors at the show giving a great opportunity for guests to network in a relaxed and convivial atmosphere. The event benefits from the support of the Monaco Tourist Board Office. (by invitation only).

- Prix du Design: The Prix du Design awards a yacht of the Monaco Yacht Show of which the design is most innovative, the greatest and most distinguished.

The Monaco Yacht Show’s claim to fame does not only lie in the top quality of the show and its entertainment program but the show is also highly regarded for its corporate social responsibility including the support of  the ‘Association Monégasque contre les Myopathies (AMM)’, a rare genetic illness that affects boys. The Prince Albert II Foundation is also pledging support for Wood Forever, a programme backed by His Serene Highness Prince Albert II dedicated to fighting world deforestation.
Monaco Yacht Show 2012

Location: Port Hercules – Boulevard Albert 1er – Principality of Monaco.
Entrance fees
General public: € 70 / day (purchase on site only)
Professional visitors: € 70 / 4-day pass.
Media members: free access with accreditation.

For more info on the show visit the event’s official website: http://www.monacoyachtshow.com

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Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley  introduces the Stay and Play * package – perfect for social golfers and die-hard enthusiasts.

The Stay and Play* package gives guests a chance to flex their tee box-muscles during an escape to one of NSW’s most scenic regions, the picturesque Hunter Valley. The package is available from Sundays to Thursdays until December 31, 2012.

Prices start from AU$280 per night for two adults and include two rounds of golf with golf cart hire, as well as deluxe room accommodation and a full buffet breakfast at the hotel’s Redsalt Restaurant.

For guests looking to travel in larger groups, the Stay and Play* package also offers four adults luxury accommodation in a 2-bedroom villa plus four rounds of golf with golf cart hire, and a full buffet breakfast from AU$360 per night.

The 18-hole championship course stretches nearly 6,000 metres within the 4.5-star resort’s picturesque grounds, located a stones-throw from the Hunter Valley’s world-renowned vineyards and cellar doors.

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley general manager David Bark said: “The course is very user-friendly and manages to strike the perfect balance between being challenging, yet achievable. It caters to all ability levels and is devoid of any tricks or architectural whims.”

The top-class course offers a variety of memberships. As a member you have the option of receiving a handicap which is monitored and maintained by Golflink Australia.

Golf-fanatics can look forward to tackling the redesigned 18th hole, which has been lengthened from an overly demanding par-4 to a risk-and-reward 454metre par-5.  Those who don’t mind having their golfing egos bruised can also attempt the 167metre fourth hole – where a water carry from tee to green means an accurate mid-or long-iron must be played for success!

Hunter Valley Golf and Country Club features an on-site ProShop which sells a wide range of equipment. The professional staff can help you with your golfing needs whether it is clothing you in the latest apparel or helping you choose the golf clubs you always wanted.  The ProShop is open every day from 7:00am- 6:00pm (April – September) and 6:30am- 7:00pm (October – March).

To book or for more information, visit www.crowneplazahuntervalley.com.au/stayandplay or call 138 388.

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Veuve Clicquot returns to Thredbo this winter for Clicquot in the Snow 2012, a celebration of two of life’s greatpleasures, Veuve Clicquot and après ski.

Now in its third year, Clicquot in the Snow is the highlight of the snow season, a winter celebration with a Clicquot twist.This year’s feature week kicks off on Monday 30 July, with fabulous Veuve Clicquot activities and experiences in andaround Thredbo each day. The village will turn “Clicquot yellow”, with bars and clubs decked out in their Clicquot décorand a slew of Clicquot-inspired events on and off the mountain to choose from.

Guests will be able to toast the season in style at the Veuve Clicquot “Off Piste” party. This official celebration of allthings Clicquot and snow will be happening on Thursday 2 August at The Denman Hotel & Spa at the “Clicquot Chalet”.Expect celebrities, fun, Clicquot-yellow mooseheads (faux, of course) and Clicquot bubbles to raise the temperature.

Another of the week’s highlights, the Clicquot in the Snow Picnic, will again be taking place amidst the breathtakingAlpine scenery at Dead Horse Gap. Hosted by The Denman Hotel & Spa, this year a celebrity chef (yet to be announced)will be designing the menu for this truly gourmet picnic. Clicquot umbrellas, hampers and picnic rugs bring chic to themountain at this event, one of the most popular of the Clicquot in the Snow calendar.

To purchase tickets to the Clicquot in the Snow “Off Piste” Party and Snow Picnic please visit:
Off Piste Party: http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=57580
Clicquot in the Snow Picnic: http://www.moshtix.com.au/event.aspx?id=57579

Other on-mountain activities include the Clicquot On-Piste Brunch Sessions at Kareela Hütte, offering delicious EggsBenedict and Veuve Clicquot to start your day, and the pop-up Clicquot Snow Bar where you can enjoy a chilled flute onFriday Flat.

After a hard day’s skiing, there is no better way to end the day than at the Clicquot Après-Ski Sessions, held daily at theThredbo Alpine Hotel. With a guest DJ, lots of giveaways and prizes, Clicquot by the flute and Clicquot lounges, rugs andtoasty braziers, these sessions are the social hub of Clicquot in the Snow. And for those with a culinary bent, there arealso delicious Clicquot Degustation Dinners at restaurants around the village throughout the week.

For those with a competitive streak, there is the Clicquot Classic Ski Race, a downhill race for enthusiastic skiers andsnowboarders to be held on Wednesday 1 August, with plenty of off-piste action for the Clicquot enthusiasts as well.Back by popular demand is the Veuve Clicquot Tube-a-Thon. On Friday 3 August, guests will gather on Friday Flat tocheer on friends and celebrities, Clicquot flute in hand, as they head down the mountain on limited-edition Veuve Clicquotsnow tubes.

Clicquot in the Snow began in Aspen in 2007 and has grown in popularity, with the best bars, clubs and restaurantsjoining in this fabulous celebration of the winter season. For the third year, Veuve Clicquot will partner with the ThredboAlpine Hotel and The Denman Hotel & Spa to ensure that the event is the highlight of the ski season with seven funpacked,luxurious days.

For further information on Clicquot in the Snow experiences please visit: www.thredbo.com.au/veuveclicquot/

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Heli skiing is no longer just for the rich. Liquid Snow Tours have released a Queenstown Heli Shred package that includes a full day of heli skiing with Southern Lakes Heli Skiing plus a week’s accommodation and a stack of extras for AU$1495.
The deal: Heli shredders will experience a Queenstown airport meet and greet upon arrival, transfers to The Lab Queenstown for seven nights in a four to six share room, continental breakfasts, one day of heli skiing with Southern Lakes Heli Skiing, return flights from Queenstown to Treble Cone with Glenorchy Air for a day’s shredding including Treble Cone lift pass.

Add a two day NZ Superpass valid at Coronet Peak and The Remarkables and a one day Liquid Pass good for NZ$95 worth of Queenstown activities, tours,spas and bars.
But wait there’s even more. Queenstown discount vouchers and a pub crawl with five free drinks and entry to Queenstown’s best bars and clubs, a resort tour guide and host plus a BBQ night at The Lab.
Upgrade to the Deluxe Heli Ski Shred and get all this plus accommodation in the lakefront Copthorne Hotel in Queenstown for AU$1895 per person based on double occupancy. That’s a lot of bang for your snow buck.

For more information on the Queenstown Heli Ski Shred package visit the Liquid Snow Tour website.

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Golf enthusiasts at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa, Maldives are in for a treat with the introduction of the country’s first nine-hole recreational golf course at the resort.  Designed by Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts and opened on 27 March 2012, the new course sits on seven and a half hectares of previously undeveloped land at the southern end of the island.

“We are excited to offer a new experience to the Maldives traveller,” said Rene D. Egle, general manager of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa.  ”Apart from our other recreational options, the Villingili Golf Course will add a new and unique activity for our guests – a game of golf amid expansive views of the Indian Ocean.”

Spectacular sights await guests at each of the nine holes, mostly par three and averaging 123.4 yards in length.  Designed to be a fun course for golf aficionados and beginners alike, the course was developed with the island’s natural beauty in mind, enhancing existing flora to highlight the gleaming ocean and turquoise lagoon along a scenic walking path.  A diversity of palms, pandanus and various exotic plants are dotted along sandy beach coves on the east and west shorelines.

To commemorate the event, the resort is offering an introductory golf package valid from now to 9 May 2012.  For a minimum stay of four nights, guests may enjoy the following benefits:

• One complimentary green fee for two persons for bookings in a Pool Villa, Deluxe Pool Villa, Water Villa, Ocean View Villa or Beach Villa
• Waived daily green fee for bookings in a Tree House Villa, Two Bedroom Beach Villa, Villa Muthee or Villa Laalu

The golf course is exclusive to guests of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa. Facilities include a clubhouse, refreshment bar and a pro shop carrying an assortment of golf apparel, gear and merchandise.  Shoe and equipment rental services are also available.

The introductory green fee of US$80 per adult includes a golf set, golf balls and unlimited rounds per day.  Children play free on golf activities scheduled by Cool Zone, the children’s club at the resort.

Reservations may be booked online at www.shangri-la.com .  For more information, guests may telephone the resort at (960) 689 7888 or e‑mail reservations.slmd@shangri-la.com .

Set amidst sensational sandy beaches and lush tropical foliage, Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa is a luxury all-villa Maldives resort property located in a spacious, boutique-style environment.  The luxurious accommodations include private ocean retreats and tropical tree house villas making it a premier Maldives luxury resort, while a selection of fine-dining choices and innovative spa treatments have been carefully designed to stimulate the senses.

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One of Australia’s favourite horses Takeover Target stormed Bondi Beach to launch the 2012 BMW Sydney Carnival with some of the country’s leading racing stars and Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Hospitality and Racing, and Minister for the Arts, the Hon. George Souris.

“Sydney Carnival is a highlight on Australia’s racing calendar, held in the birthplace of Australian racing in Australia’s leading events and tourism city,” Minister Souris said.

“The NSW Government through Destination NSW has joined with Racing NSW, the Australian Turf Club, Tabcorp and Inglis to reconfigure the BMW Sydney Carnival as a signature event on the NSW Events Calendar.

“Together with our partners, we are working to make our Carnival the best thoroughbred racing and sales event in the Southern Hemisphere.

“It is events like the Carnival that ensure that Sydney, the gateway to Australia and NSW, remains number one when it comes to hosting major events in this country.”

Assisting the Minister to launch the event were Racing NSW Chairman John Messara and Australian Turf Club Chairman John Cornish as well as sponsors, ambassadors and leading racing identities.

ATC Chairman John Cornish said there were exciting times ahead for Sydney racing as the Club was overseeing major developments at its two flagship tracks.

Mr Cornish said the largest super screen in the southern hemisphere would be ready for Rosehill Gardens in time for the AAMI Golden Slipper in a few weeks and the $150m grandstand and “Theatre of the Horse” redevelopment at Royal Randwick  would be ready in time for the 2013 Carnival.

“Let’s make no mistake about it – on the completion of these works in time for next year’s BMW Sydney Carnival we will have event racing facilities as good as any in the world,” Mr Cornish said.

“This will see Sydney racing back at our rightful place as a world leader in our industry and challenging like never before to be the number one racing destination in Australia.”

Leading jockeys Corey Brown and Kathy O’Hara and premier Sydney trainer Chris Waller discussed the serious side of the Carnival with their upcoming prospects on the turf.

Brown took the opportunity to climb aboard the legendary sprinter Takeover Target who came out of retirement to add some equine class to the launch at the scenic and iconic Bondi Beach.

The popular Takeover Target, 21 wins from 41 starts, won sprinting crowns in five major Australian cities and the United Kingdom, Japan and Singapore.

He last raced during the Sydney Carnival at Royal Randwick in 2009 as a nine-year-old, producing one of his best performances to thrash five Group 1 winning rivals including Apache Cat and Northern Meteor to win the $500,000 Group 1 TJ Smith Stakes (1200m) in record time.

The 2012 BMW Sydney Carnival is a world-class thoroughbred racing festival showcasing a staggering total of 40 Group races and more than $20 million in prize money on offer at Rosehill Gardens and Royal Randwick.

Sydney’s premier racing Carnival begins six enthralling weeks of world class racing, stunning fashion and fantastic entertainment in Australia’s global city and home of racing this Saturday with Myer Ladies Day at Rosehill Gardens.

Held  between 24 March and 28 April, it encompasses the richest race in the world for two year-olds  - the $3.5m AAMI Golden Slipper and weight-for-age showcase the $2.25m BMW at Rosehill Gardens and the legendary $1.5m David Jones Australian Derby and the $2m BMW Doncaster Mile at Royal Randwick.

Carnival stakeholders, The Australian Turf Club (ATC), Racing NSW, Destination NSW, TAB and Inglis have united to bring to life the Carnival’s unique entertainment proposition, racing tradition and the fun and fashion of the events on and off course.

Tabcorp CEO David Attenborough said: “It’s a privilege to be a partner of one of the world’s premier racing events. Tabcorp looks forward being part of the BMW Sydney Carnival, through betting products such as TAB Millions, which will provide pool guarantees on selected meetings on either the Quaddie, BIG6 or First 4.”

The Carnival starts at Rosehill Gardens with Myer Ladies Day, Flinders Lane Rosehill Guineas Day, and finally arguably Sydney’s racing event of the year, AAMI Golden Slipper Day, before moving on to Royal Randwick with the elegance of David Jones Australian Derby Day, BMW Doncaster Day, and the Carnival finale, Schweppes Sydney Cup Day.

KEY DATES
Saturday 24 March – Myer Ladies Day Rosehill Gardens
Saturday 31 March – Flinders Lane Guineas Day Rosehill Gardens
Saturday 7 April – AAMI Golden Slipper Day Rosehill Gardens
Saturday 14 April – David Jones Australian Derby Day Royal Randwick
Saturday 21 April – BMW Doncaster Day Royal Randwick
Saturday 28 April – Schweppes Sydney Cup Day Royal Randwick

For all you need to know about the 2012 BMW Sydney Carnival, head to www.thesydneycarnival.com.au

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New Electronic Ticketing System, eStore and POS Goes Live at Victoria’s Alpine Resorts

Falls Creek Ski Lifts and Hotham Skiing Company are rolling out a new electronic point of sale and ticketing system in 2012. Used widely at resorts around the world, the RTP (Resort Technology Partners) system will create streamlined pre-purchase of lift tickets and lessons, pre-organisation of equipment hire plus the ability to register the kids into the snowsports school programs prior to arrival at the resorts. Guests who utilise this new system will move more quickly onto the slopes, spending more time skiing and boarding.
The roll out has now begun with the introduction of the new eStore, creating hassle free benefits for online organisation of a guest’s snow holiday. Currently you can buy your season pass or Snow Rewards membership on the eStore. In coming weeks, the eStore sale offering will also include lift tickets, lessons and equipment hire.

Guests can register online for rental equipment, completing a detailed form allowing easier and smoother collection of their equipment. Guests can also manage their skier or rider profiles for future equipment hire or snowsports lessons needs including group and private lessons.
“The benefits of the new system provide guests the opportunity to reduce the time they need to be at the ticket counters and in the equipment rental stores” says Nick Noble Marketing Manager Falls Creek Ski Lifts, “It’s important to provide systems that create more time on the slopes for our guests”.
“The installation of this new system will streamline the way we interact with our guests providing them the ability to organise parts of their holiday prior to arriving,” says Gina Woodward Hotham Sales & Marketing Manager, “We all value our time and the ability to maximise time on the slopes is paramount.”
This powerful new system across two of Victoria’s alpine resorts has enormous benefits and further benefits will be rolled out over the coming seasons.  Winter operations for skiing and snowboarding in 2012 will start on Saturday 9 June.

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