Showcasing hospitality skills with the Gippsland community during special event

Clients from Yooralla’s Leongatha Community Hub have shown off their incredible hospitality skills, during a very special ‘Christmas in July’ event at local establishment - Moo’s at Meeniyan.

This is the fourth time the team at Moo’s have graciously opened up the doors to let Yooralla’s Hospitality program participants take over the restaurant and kitchen, serving up a “delightful array of dishes” to guests from across the Gippsland community.

Yooralla’s Hospitality program gives participants the opportunity to develop hospitality skills and experience – with the aim of future employment in the industry.

The Hospitality team have been preparing tirelessly for this event, collaborating with Marty, owner of Moo’s, over several months to meticulously plan and execute the evening.

“The event was an absolute hit,” said Sharon, Service Manager of Yooralla’s Leongatha Community Hub.

“As always, the Hospitality team excelled, showcasing their exceptional skills both in the kitchen during meal prep and in serving dinner to the guests,” said Sharon.

Around 45 guests indulged in canapes, pumpkin soup shots, and zucchini and corn fritters. The indulgence didn’t stop there however, with guests having the choice between slow-braised brisket with roasted potatoes and broccoli, or ricotta and spinach-filled pasta with passata sauce and salad. The equally decadent dessert options included chocolate brownies or sticky date pudding.

Dan, a Hospitality program participant said that he “loved every single second of the night, one of the most eventful nights of the year.”

“My favourite part of the night was getting all the orders out to everyone,” said Dan.

“The night was incredible but exhausting,” agrees Luke, Yooralla client.

“There were so many people to get meals out to. I was part of cooking in the kitchen, which was hard work. I helped cook pasta and put the food on the plates,” he said.

“I am constantly in awe of [the Hospitality program participant’s] professionalism and the impressive skills they bring to the hospitality space, most of them being on their feet from when they arrived at 9am that day,” Sharon.

“I think we nailed that night, with Marty’s help,” said Jess, Yooralla client.

This event is a testament to the strong ties that Yooralla shares with its community businesses, and the unwavering support provided by the local community.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Marty for his generous hospitality, welcoming us to take over his restaurant time and time again throughout the years,” said Sharon.

“This event marks our last collaboration with Marty, as he has sold his business. We wish you the best of luck Marty,” said Sharon.

This article also appeared in the South Gippsland Sentinel-Times. Check it out on their website.