8 QMYOU / Sustainable Business and Creativity & Culture
Albert Roux Dinner HITS the mark
The Albert Roux Dinner raised £ 21,445 from the sale of tickets , the raffle and auctions . The money will be split equally between student projects at QMU and the Hospitality Industry Trust ( HIT ) Scotland .
One hundred guests were treated to a glittering formal black tie champagne reception and dinner hosted by the world renowned chef , Albert Roux OBE . The event , which was held at QMU in May , involved a galaxy of Scotland ’ s culinary stars from many of the country ’ s best restaurants , supported by a number of talented QMU students .
The event , which was a celebration of both food and culture , showcased a number of the University ’ s specialist areas . Hospitality , costume design & construction , and film & media merged to create a dramatic and memorable occasion for all involved .
The second Albert Roux Dinner was supported by Andrew Fairlie ( Restaurant Andrew Fairlie , Gleneagles ), Martin Wishart ( Restaurant Martin Wishart , Edinburgh and Martin Wishart at Loch Lomond ), Dominic Jack ( Castle Terrace ), Derek Johnstone ( Chez Roux , Greywalls , Gullane ), Brian Maule ( Brian Maule at Chardon d ’ Or , Glasgow ) and Malcolm Webster ( The Square at The Sheraton ).
Young chefs from these restaurants , assisted by QMU students , prepared , cooked and presented a wonderful meal using local Scottish produce . The food and wine was served by hospitality students who trained especially for the event .
The dinner differed from last year with some of the guests being able to enjoy the company of guest chefs at hosted tables – this helped to create a unique dining experience .
Trevor Laffin , Head of the Business , Enterprise and Management Division at QMU , explained : “ The Albert Roux Dinner not only provided an outstanding handson learning and networking opportunity for our students , it also raised vital funds for HIT Scotland and QMU student ledprojects . The charity , HIT Scotland has helped those training to enter the industry and those already within , to realise their full potential , and we are delighted that this Roux dinner is in support of HITS ’ important work .”
Trevor Laffin pointed out : “ We wish to recognise all our food producers , suppliers and wine merchants who have given so generously to this event , as well as Andrew Wilson Caterhire ; Stems for the beautiful floral arrangements ; and Sound and Vision for the lighting .”
The fundraising auction created a real sense of excitement and concluded the evening in a frenzy of bidding . The winners were able to go home in the knowledge that their generous support had netted them a future extravagant gourmet experience . One of the most sought after prizes was ‘ Le Gavroche Experience ’ – Albert and Michel Roux offered a week ’ s hands-on cookery at the two Michellin star Le Gavroche in London , concluding with dinner for the prize winner and partner – a once in a life-time experience .
QMU would like to thank Albert Roux ; Glen Watson and Steven Doherty who supervised the QMU kitchen at the event ; and all of the chefs ; producers ; suppliers ; guests ; staff and students who contributed to the success of the evening .
8 QMYOU / Sustainable Business and Creativity & Culture