The Butler Potts Point hosted a fundraising dinner, The Garden Gala, in support of Wayside Chapel.

We proudly hosted this special dinner honouring the power of community, neighbourly love and support.

On Thursday, 17th October, we had the privilege of hosting the Wayside Charity dinner, an event that not only marked our own 10th anniversary but also celebrated Wayside Chapel’s 60-year milestone.

As the sun set over Sydney’s iconic skyline, guests gathered on The Butler’s terrace to kick off the evening. They were welcomed with Wayside Spritzes, made with Lemon Myrtle Tanqueray, Tanica Plum Aperitivo, and local honey. These were paired with exquisite canapés, courtesy of Spencer Gulf Kingfish. The menu featured Wattleseed and lemon myrtle cured kingfish on quinoa crisps, smoked kingfish rilette, and seaweed potato cakes topped with crème fraîche and wild scampi caviar.

As the evening progressed, guests moved to the dining room, where MC Josh Horner took center stage, paying respects to the Traditional Owners of the land. To kick off the event, Wayside Partnership Manager, Tom Stevenson addressed the guests, speaking passionately about the significance of the celebration and reinforcing Wayside’s mission of creating a society with ‘no us and them’. This was followed by a mindfulness exercise led by head gardener Jon Kingston and The Butler’s Chef Amber Doig, using fresh cress, curry leaves, and lemon myrtle from the garden.

The dinner menu was a celebration of fresh seafood, with highlights like Ocean Road Tiger abalone, Ōra King salmon, Raptis banana prawn tostadas, Humpty Doo barramundi tacos, and a show-stopping whole Rocky Point grouper roasted in banana leaf. Cocktails with fresh garden herbs and hand-picked wines complemented the menu.

Throughout the evening, guests participated in a raffle and silent auction, with prizes donated by generous sponsors and local businesses. The night concluded on the terrace with a Wayside honey panna cotta dessert and final drinks.

This event was a testament to the power of community and support. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who attended and contributed to making this evening a resounding success. The generosity and support shown by our guests, sponsors, and the local community were truly inspiring.