Friday the 2nd August saw what is sure to be one of the best Foreacaddies to have been held at Lake Karrinyup. 270 members and their guests were enthralled by guest speaker Dr Craig Challen’s incredible chronicle of the cave rescue of 12 teenagers and their young soccer coach in Thailand last year.
Captain Ralph Gibson introduced his cousin Craig to the crowd with some funny insights into Craig’s life and hobbies. A keen cyclist, Craig also flies helicopters and aeroplanes, he climbs mountains, jumps out of planes, saves animals and explores underwater caves. And now he rescues kids from Tham Luang Caves.
After listening to Craig’s story, it’s very easy to understand why Craig and his friend and cave-diving partner Dr Richard Harris were named the joint 2019 Australians of the Year. Craig’s account of the rescue from the initial time he heard of the young boys being trapped, to the point weeks later that all 13 were finally rescued from the cave, is an amazing story and one that had everyone in the room completely mesmerized by with a behind the scenes look on what this rescue actually entailed and involved. There was much laughter and some tears shed and for the first time at a Forecaddies luncheon, a standing ovation after President Con thanked Craig for sharing his remarkable story.
Question and answer time was interesting and when asked if it was a hollywood movie or a book next, Craig took the opportunity to let the crowd know that he is writing a book, soon to be published. As far as a Hollywood movie goes, this could be on the cards, and he hopes they will be able to keep a car chase out of this movie!
Chef Dean and his team served up 270 delicious 3 course meals and were thanked by all of those present, along with Jess & Darry and their team who all did an amazing job looking after this special event.
Sandalford wines had some fabulous wines to match the luncheon and winemaker Hope Metcalf gave an entertaining insight into her winemaking history and the wonderful Sandalford range. Russell Mitchell was the lucky door prize winner taking home a twin pack of wine.
Stay tuned for the next Forecaddies Luncheon scheduled for a date to be advised, later on in the year.
