First POETS of 2009 a great success despite the credit crunch

numbers were limited for the inaugural 2009 POETS lunch (P!ss Off Early Tomorrow is Saturday). The location, Machiavelli's in the city. A normally highly austere location for local business men , to become the start of a fairly gregarious afternoon of frivolity. From planning a month before where the bullish responses over beers led to original bookings for 15 people, the final 6 turned up to enjoy some absolutely superb Italian food, the John Dorey special of worthy mention.

Unfortunately the 6th, the German living Kiwi, Andy, had a rare slip in German efficiency had his flights changed to arrived the morning after the big event. Thus, a small fluffy kiwi bird was given the Andy title and well received by not only the local staff who proceeded to not only try and serve him Veal Parmaggiana (sp?), but almost responded to request for a bowl of bird seed.  

Unbeknownst to the lunching buddies, Andy was to provide a whole evening of entertainment at the Ivy, Establishment, the Dolphin, but alas not Manly Wharf.... couldn't get in, far too drunk by then! The local inhabitants of the various locations, responding incredibly well to ensure that "Andy" had fun, despite his actual lack of presence...

all photo evidence here.... http://picasaweb.google.com/ben.forrest/POETSFeb2008#