As Singapore commemorated 56 years of independence on the 9th of August, WASBC concurrently celebrated Singapore’s National Day and WASBC’s belated 3rd Anniversary, treating members and their guests to grand festivities at The Melbourne Hotel. Customarily, the food did not disappoint, as the emcee and host of the night’s schedule, Brian Liau, roused the crowd with his electric personality and hilarious banter.
President of WASBC, Terrence Cheong, began the proceedings with the introduction of three newly-formed Special Interest Groups, and announced the transition of WA-Singapore Business Connect (and name change) to the WA-Singapore Business Council. Terrence remarked that while creating ‘Connections’ still remained one of our main ambitions, this move to that of a ‘Council’, better reflects WASBC’s broader vision and direction going forward. This was followed by inspiring speeches and kind words of encouragement from High Commissioner Kwok of the High Commission of the Republic of Singapore in Canberra, and our Guest of Honour for the night, the Hon. Pierre Yang MLC, and speeches by esteemed sponsors and partners; Cyril D’Silva of Millenium Kapital Resources Ltd., Ross Prosper of Bentleys WA, and Anthony Quahe of Civic Legal.
The dinner kicked off in traditional Chinese fair with Yusheng, or the Prosperity Toss, where attendees were invited to heave a delicious mixture of salmon, shredded vegetables and crunchy crackers; cheering auspicious phrases, highlighting our success thus far and wishing for good luck and abundance for the future. The 9-course dinner followed through the night with a scrumptious spread prepared by The Melbourne Hotel with favourites like scallops and pan fried lobster, that left guests more than sated.
Most certainly the highlight of the night was when guests were invited up to have their go in the NDP 2021 ‘Dance for the Nation’. Taking heed from Brian’s good attempt to demonstrate his moves, our four brave performers gave it their all and quite literally stole the spotlight, putting on quite a show to raucous applause. This year’s raffle also proved to be our best yet, thanks to the generous contributions from our various sponsors and members, with a mammoth reception as raffle tickets were sold through the night. Lucky winners walked away with a water purifier (RRP $1,499), a Google Nest, various hampers and vouchers, and even a 3D painting from and presented by local artist John Major himself! $1000 was raised for the Perth Children’s Hospital Foundation; as a gesture of goodwill, sharing our successes with the broader community.
As the night drew to a close, the 130 people who attended the sold out dinner celebrations, rejoiced in a chorous of ‘Yam Seng’s. The eventful night was capped off with a 3rd Anniversary cake cutting, led by WASBC President Terrence Cheong, and concluded with a casual networking session. In all, the night marked an important milestone in our journey and we can proudly and safely say was a huge success, as much laughs and many contacts were exchanged.
We’d like to thank the Hon. Pierre Yang MLC for gracing this event; High Commissioner Kwok for taking the time out his busy schedule to address WASBC and our members; our Gold Sponsors, Bentleys and Ross Prosper, Millenium Kapital Resources Ltd and Cyril D’Silva; our Silver Sponsors Warriors Wine and Bruce; our Bronze Sponsors City of Canning, Robertson Hayles Lawyers, Curtin University, Highbury Homes, Ingot Hotel, Coastal Midwest Transport and Juwai IQI; and all 130 members and guests who shared in our celebration and made this journey possible.
If you’ve missed out on this remarkable occassion, fret not, for we have lined up numerous networking and fun events in the near future for our members. And if you’re not a member, and want to be a part of our exceptional community, consider signing up so you don’t miss out on future events.
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