Lunch at the Heart of Europe, Ormiston

By Anne Blackwood.

Queensland winters, to this newcomer, take a bit of getting used to when my old digs were experiencing highs of 14 degrees. But, you know what? Somehow I’ve easily come to love them … and the summers which I find much more liveable too.

A short stop at Sirromet Winery in Mt. Cotton for the gathering of the clan in perfect weather. This was my first visit to Sirromet Winery and what a fab destination it is too. Definitely one to return with my family and the Gang of Three (son James’ and his wife Bec’s three kids.)

I really enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with friends old and new and glow a bit in the Lotus aura. (I know that sounds wanky but we Lotus-ites really do enjoy a special place in the world.)

After a short morning tea we headed off to Ormiston and “Heart of Europe” (predominantly) German cafe/restaurant. I really like the idea of supporting smaller suburban eateries for club runs as it is easy to head to the big and brassy. The service was a bit underwhelming but then again to have 30 odd people arrive simultaneously would be fairly daunting. Perhaps pre-ordering in future may be a solution. Their schnitties – which are visible from space – were devoured enthusiastically. I opted for the delicious Cabbage Rolls mit Sauerkraut.

Now for my news. No, I’m not pregnant. HELL, NO! But, after leaving Bellingen the other day at the end – for me – of GT21 and seeing that gorgeous line-up of Lotus got the imagination fired up. Time for another Lotus. Yes, folks I was number 25, in Brisbane, of a list of people to pay a token deposit to be placed on the list for an Emira. I am going for Hethel Yellow, black top, black leather, black wheels, red callipers, auto, V6. I loved my V6 auto Evora and feel this will be a good fit for me and me for it. I’m sure the AMG Benz (unleaded 98) motor is a screamer but I am hesitant about the quality of Australian fuels to keep it happy. I have had two European diesels and they both had major engine failure.