The Eastern Seaboard Group committee of the South African-Thai Chamber of Commerce (SATCC) held a braai at the Outback Golf Bar in Pattaya on Saturday the 20th of May.
This was the first time that such an occasion had been organised and it was thought that it would attract between 20 and 30 guests. However, with the sun shining, the organizers were delighted that over 100 people came to enjoy the succulent tastes of an authentic South African braai (BBQ). This wonderful array of food was also complemented by the Boerewors and Biltong which was supplied by James Fortune.
Although the braai was an informal event it was felt it would strengthen the social and cultural ties between Thailand and South Africa. And this proved to be the case with many Thais attending the event.
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the South African music as well as all the food and wine. There was much of the latter both from South Africa and also the local winery in Na Jomtien – Silverlake.
The main purpose of the event was to get together as many South Africans and friends of South Africa as possible. It also served as an unofficial launch of the SATCC Eastern Seaboard Group whose aim is to unlock potential development between Thailand’s Eastern Economic Corridor and South Africa regarding business and investment opportunities in the provinces of Chachoengsao, Rayong and Chonburi.
The Outback Golf Bar, managed wonderfully by Tawan and owner Andre Coetzee, proved to be an ideal venue for the braai, and a number of cooks stepped up to take care of the barbeques including brothers Bernie and Bernard Lamprecht and the Executive Head Chef of the Amari Pattaya Resort, Shaun Venter, who gave up his day off to assist.
As the sun went down the guests enjoyed a few more beers and glasses of wine amongst new friends. Following on from the success of this event, it is hoped that everyone will return to the Outback Golf Bar in August for another great day. Naturally, the Pattaya Mail will pass on news of the dates when they are released.
More photos at www.pattayamail.com