Bennelong to run fundraising lamington drive in support of R U OK
Taking inspiration from a good old fashion school canteen lamington drive, this National Lamington Day, Bennelong will host their own drive with all proceeds donated to R U OK.
The Bennelong lamington drive will kick off from 5:30pm on Thursday 21st June with Chef Peter Gilmore’s famed Cherry Jam Lamington available to diners across the entire restaurant, including the bar.
Gilmore’s take on the traditional Australian sweet has been a talking point since the restaurant opened in July 2015. The Bennelong version comprises of a square island of cherry jam coconut cream ice-cream and sponge encased in glossy chocolate ganache, surrounded by delicate flecks of liquid nitrogen coconut milk parfait.
It is said that the lamington was created by accident in 1901 by a cook who worked for Lord Lamington, the eighth Governor of Queensland. The tale goes that the cook accidentally dropped the Governor's favourite sponge cake into some melted chocolate, as Lord Lamington was not a person of wasteful habits, he suggested that it be dipped in coconut to cover the chocolate, therefore avoiding messy fingers. The Governor claimed it a culinary delight, referring to the cake as “those bloody, poofy, woolly biscuits”.
On National Lamington Day the country celebrates Australia’s iconic cake, and Bennelong has chosen to celebrate as well by hosting a classically Australian school canteen style fundraising drive. Bennelong’s chosen charity, R U OK, is a suicide prevention organisation in Australia, reminding people that having meaningful conversations with friends and loved ones could save lives. “R U OK is particularly important to us at Bennelong and Fink Group,” says John Fink.
“With the prevalence of mental health difficulties in the hospitality industry it is really important for us to play any part we can in not only raising funds but to also shed light on the struggles faced in the restaurant business, and more importantly the amazing support that R U OK provides. It is also a timely reminder to ask your loved ones, friends and colleagues how are they really doing. Just asking someone can make all the difference.”
The Bennelong Cherry Jam Lamington will be available to diners in The Restaurant, at Cured and Cultured, and for one night only at Bennelong Bar. Guests will be welcome to walk on in to Bennelong Bar, no booking necessary, and try the Lamington.
