An evening with the Governor of Queensland

Luckily all the teachers (and partners) of the Queensland Teachers Exchange League were invited to the Governors House to celebrate the Queen's birthday (April 21). The Governor of Queensland has resided at Government House, Brisbane since 1910. The mansion, set in 14 hectares of gardens and bushland in the Brisbane suburb of Bardon, is also known as "Fernberg".   Fernberg is not the original Government house, the original was used from 1862 to 1910; the building still exists today on the grounds of Queensland University of Technology.
One could say you could pick out many of us amid the politicians and bureacreats because of the second hand suits and sports coats worn by many of the guys -  many us resorted to finding them at school fetes, op shops or simply borrowing one. Meanwhile, all the ladies got "frocked up" for the evening and fit right in - lol!  Nevertheless a lovely evening was had by all in a very formal environment.  The drinks and food were flowing freely throughout the evening.  We weren't allowed to take pictures in "Her Excellency's" house but were permitted to take them on an outer balcony. 

Gates into Fernberg

Fernberg mansion - Government House

All the Canadians (and one Western Australian) on exchange in Queensland this year.



Cheers!

Exchange teachers and partners



Boyd and Nancy

Ebony and Nancy

After schmoozing at Government House and saying goodbye to Her Excellency we made our way to Avianti Cafe and Pasta Restaurant, an Italian cafe nearby, and proceeded to enjoy an excellent Italian meal and great conversation over the rest of the evening

Avanti Cafe