Two New Sparkling Seaside Events To Launch Carnivale

Port Douglas Carnivale’s coming of age extravaganza will kick off with two new world-class cuisine events celebrating the best of local produce – the restyled signature Jansz Longest Lunch and the Feast Port Douglas festival of food and wine, all set against the glittering backdrop of the Coral Sea.

Roux Blond Catering and Events is proud to present these events to celebrate Carnivale’s 21st year amid the palm-fringed outdoor beauty of Rex Smeal Park.

The Longest Lunch Is a “must” on the Carnivale calendar of events. Known for its sense of luxury, exclusivity and indulgence, this event aesthetic is the perfect partnership for Jansz Tasmania.

Since the Hill-Smith family purchased the vineyard in 1997, Jansz Tasmania has become the most highly regarded sparkling wine house in Australia.

On arrival at Rex Smeal Park, guests will be greeted at the exclusive Jansz and oyster bar marquee and are invited to sit back and settle in for the afternoon with a tantalising shared table banquet.

“We want people to settle in for the afternoon with great food, great wines and great company – the perfect way to start the 2015 Carnivale celebrations,” said Roux Blond director Darren Garner.

This, and the move to Rex Smeal Park, meant “Long Lunchers” could still enjoy all the glitz and glamour expected of this signature cuisine event while making the most of Port Douglas’ spectacular ocean views.

Carnivale general manager Roy Weavers said he was delighted that Carnivale would partner with Roux Blond Catering and Events on these key flagship events.

“Rex Smeal Park sits majestically right on the tip of the peninsular, close to town, and there is ample parking for those who are driving.

“There will be plenty of shade, lots of room to move around, dance, and take in the entertainment at the Jansz Longest Lunch while Feast Port Douglas offers a wonderful opportunity for Carnivale revellers on the Saturday night, all in a convenient location for those strolling back to their accommodation,” Mr Weavers said.

The venue would also allow for growth of the Longest Lunch, which could evolve into the Far North’s mega event of the year.

“The Bank of Melbourne Longest Lunch set a new world record of 1604 guests, which shows the potential that could be unlocked in such a popular event,” he said.

The Jansz Longest Lunch will be a four-hour hedonistic delight, stretching from 11.30am until 3.30pm on Friday, May 22. Tickets cost $173.25 inclusive of the 5% Carnivale support surcharge per person.

Mr Weavers said the food celebration would continue with Feast Port Douglas at Rex Smeal Park the next evening, May 23, from 5.30pm until 11pm.

“Feast is set to be the flagship celebration of food, beverage and all things good in the Carnivale calendar,” he said.

“May is the perfect time of year to experience North Queensland – its bounty, lifestyle and climate, showcased in Rex Smeal Park with the Coral Sea as the backdrop.”

Mr Garner said multiple dining areas and styles would be available to Feast visitors around the festival grounds.

“We are capturing the current energy and enthusiasm that is the Australian food revolution, with an array of food stalls dedicated to showcasing local produce from the paddock, sea and farm, prepared with the culinary creativity of modern Australian cuisine,” he said.

“Paired with Australian and international wines, beers, ciders, cocktails and local musical talent, it will be a foodie’s paradise.”

The ticket fee for Feast Port Douglas will be $47.25 per person. Festival tokens will be used as currency.

They will be available from a number of stalls to redeem at all food, beverage and merchandise providers within the festival. Unused tokens can be refunded prior to departure, or donated to a selection of local charities on exit.

The Jansz Longest Lunch and Feast Port Douglas will complement a third Roux Blond event being held during Port Douglas Carnivale – The Port Douglas Craft Beer and Cider Festival on Friday and Saturday, May 29 to 30.

Tickets for this are $31.50 per person on the Friday, and $36.75 per person on Saturday. All tickets include the 5% Carnivale support surcharge.

Tickets to the Jansz Longest Lunch, Feast Port Douglas and the Port Douglas Craft Beer and Cider Festival  are available online at www.carnivale.com.au