Winkler party one of the best in 50 years

On May 10 all formal Lowveld roads led to Premier Hotel The Winkler.

Exactly 50 guests, dressed according to the classical fashion of years gone by, arrived and were welcomed by host, Simon Sutherland to one of the best functions found in the Lowveld in modern times.

This well-known landmark turns 50 this month and the occasion was celebrated by locals, as well as guests from the past.

Both Willem Fick, an early employee of the hotel and Mark Winkler, son of original owner Erwin Winkler, attended the function.

Willem did his practical training at the Winkler in 1974. “I was extremely fortunate to train at this establishment when Ervin Winkler and his wife were the owners of this very fine country hotel,” he said.

“I still honour Mr Winkler as one of the finest hoteliers who pioneered the hotel industry in South Africa to the professional level to where it finds itself today. He will always be regarded as the mentor responsible for my success in the hospitality industry and he and his wife should be saluted for the establishment of that iconic Lowveld landmark.”

Willem congratulated Simon and his team for maintaining the quality in service, hospitality and professionalism that this Old Dame of the Lowveld has been known for during the past 50 years

Mark entertained the guests with many anecdotes on his father and early life at the hotel, and guests were treated on a scrumptious sixties-style five-course menu.

The latter included canapes and sparkling wine, a first course of game terrine and

Old Brown Sherry, fish course of steamed

Norwegian salmon and Riesling, watermelon sorbet and a main course of Beef Wellington and Chicken Cordon Bleu with Alto Rouge. A black forest gâteau accompanied by a noble Late Harvest and a cheese table completed the picture.

More celebrations, including a kids’ party (June 29), a Moon Party (July 27), Woodstock in White River (August 17) and an Equinox Party (September 21) are also planned.