Your ultimate guide to all the festivities at #AHIRW 2016 Posted by Hamilton Island - 17 August 2016 August is finally upon us and next week Hamilton Island will be a buzz with the unique and lively atmosphere of Audi Hamilton Island Race Week (#AHIRW). From 20–27th of August, Hamilton Island will play host to the largest offshore yacht regatta in the southern hemisphere with a range of amazing events to be staged through out the week. As part of this year’s revelries guests are invited to celebrate the best Australia has to offer in mixology and culinary delights. With over 100 scheduled events we’ve curated a list of this year's most exciting highlights: Drinks Piper-Heidsieck Champagne Bar at Bommie Deck Enjoy a flute of Piper-Heidsieck Champagne on the terrace of the Hamilton Island Yacht Club as the day’s racing comes to an end and the onshore fun begins. Why we love it: Sunset, a live DJ playing and Piper Champagne—need we say more! When: 5pm to 7pm, 21-27 August. Location: Bommie Deck, Hamilton Island Yacht Club. Entry: This is a non-ticketed event and entry is open to the public (18+ for service of alcohol). Piper Champagne at Bommie Deck for fantastic on-shore fun! Robert Oatley Vineyards Pop-up Cellar Door Robert Oatley’s Darren Jahn will present eight exciting, award-winning new releases from the family’s winery, which you can taste free of charge. He will also be running a competition each day with a chance to take home award-winning wine! Why we love it: These fantastic wines tastes even better in paradise. When: 12pm to 4pm, 22-23 and 25 August. Location: One Tree Hill. Entry: This is a non-ticketed event and entry is open to the public. No charge for tasting and wines are available by the glass (18+ for service of alcohol). The 360 views of the Whitsundays add to the experience at the pop-up wine cellar. Tanqueray Garden Bar After dinner, head to the Tanqueray Garden Bar with its lush, leafy garden vibe, live DJs and dancing. Enjoy a selection of classic cocktails, including Tanqueray’s signature serve, Tanqueray and Tonic. Why we love it: After-hours partying, Tanqueray gin cocktails and fun beats… better pack your dancing shoes for this one! When: 9.00pm till late, 20–27 August. Location: Hamilton Island Marina, Front Street. Entry: This is a non-ticketed event and is open to the public (18+ for entry). Tanqueray’s signature serve please! Eats Wild Oats Wines Ladies Lunch with special guest Layne Beachley A South East Asian Banquet prepared by chef Adam Woodfield paired with matching Wild Oats Wines with special guest, World Champion surfer Layne Beachley. Why we love it: Who doesn’t love a long lunch? Also, in addition to the amazing food and wine, there will be a flower crown making station! When: 12pm, Sunday 21 August. Location: coca chu, Catseye Beach. Entry: Please apply to the wait list for seating. A glass of Wild Oats Rose, coca chu dishes and fantastic company awaits. Dinner with Matt Moran and Robert Oatley Wines Audi Ambassador and Race Week regular Matt Moran returns in 2016. Matt is one of Australia’s most celebrated foodies with multiple restaurants and television shows. Join us for an intimate three-course dinner with matching wines brought to you by Audi Australia and Robert Oatley Wines. Why we love it: Matt Moran always surprises and delights with his sensational food and when paired with Robert Oatley Wines we’re in for a treat. When: 7.30pm, Sunday 21 August. Location: Bommie Restaurant, Hamilton Island Yacht Club. Entry: Please apply to the wait list for seating. Audi Ambassador Matt Moran will surprise and delight at Hamilton Island. Piper-Heidsieck Champagne lunch with Guillaume Brahimi Experience a little magic of the Côte d'Azur and celebrate lay day in true French Riviera style. Enjoy the range of Piper-Heidsieck Champagnes while savouring a menu created by Guillaume Brahimi. Why we love it: You’ll be transported to France—Bon appetti and à votre santé! When: 12:00 pm, Wednesday 24 August. Location: Long Pavilion, qualia. Entry: Please apply to the wait list for seating. Audi Ambassador Guillaume Brahimi will prepare a lunch to remember! Prix d’elegance with Reuben toasties and Ketel One Bloody Mary Stand To coincide with the judging of prix d’elegance (where yachts compete in two categories: Best Presented Yacht and Crew; and Best Fun-Themed Yacht and Crew) we invite everyone to come and watch the parade of boats go past, as you enjoy breakfast and a bloody mary at the Yacht Club. Why we love it: A feast for the senses with fun costumes for Prix d’elegance and a delicious breakfast. It’s a chance to experience the true essence of AHIRW! When: 8:00 am, Thursday 25 August. Location: Bommie Deck, Hamilton Island Yacht Club. Entry: This is a non-ticketed event and open to the public. The breakfast stall down at Hamilton Island Marina. Paspaley ‘white’ Luncheon Guests join Paspaley for a glamorous afternoon on Pebble Beach. This annual luncheon is a celebration of the beauty of Australian South Sea pearls and a chance to view the latest jewellery designs. Why we love it: It brings together style, sophistication and the superb. When: 12pm, Friday 26 August. Location: Pebble Beach, qualia. Entry: Please apply to the wait list for seating. A stunning view at qualia paired with stunning Paspaley pearls makes for an extraordinary lunch. Surf and Turf Dinner with the Australian Sailing Team Celebrate the Australian Sailing Team’s return from Rio! Overlooking the Hamilton Island Marina, enjoy a three-course surf and turf menu whilst hearing stories from the on water action in Rio. Hosted by ex-Olympic Sailor (and Hamilton Island CEO) Glenn Bourke and sailing journalist Rob Mundle. Why we love it: Talk like a sailor and eat like a sailor! When: 7pm, Friday 26 August. Location: Romano's, Front Street. Entry: Please apply to the wait list for seating. An amazing array of seafood awaits at the surf and turf dinner. Eat Street For a casual dinner during Race Week visit the Eat Street food market located in the heart of the Hamilton Island Marina. Wander around as you are treated to a carnival style atmosphere, a huge range of cuisines and live performances to entertain the whole family. Why we love it: You get to walk around and soak up the atmosphere, while enjoying great food and a tropical cocktail (or two). When: 5.30pm to 8.30pm, 20-23 & 25-26 August. Location: Hamilton Island Marina, Front Street. Entry: This is a non-ticketed event and open to the public. A tasty paella is prepared by the chefs. About the Author Part of the Whitsundays, and in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most spectacular and sought-after holiday destinations. On a holiday to Hamilton Island, you'll be surrounded by pristine white beaches, and a kaleidoscope of coral and marine life.