Behind the scenes of a DVINE Long Lunch

From choosing the venue to setting the shared table: a look at how a DVINE Long Lunch comes together, and where to find the next one.

There is something about a long table that changes the mood of a meal. Conversations stretch from one end to the other, strangers become friends by dessert and nobody is in a hurry to leave. That feeling is at the heart of every DVINE Long Lunch. Here is a look at what goes into creating one, and where you can join us next.

It starts with the right place

A long lunch is shaped by its setting. We look for venues with character, room for a shared table and a team who love hosting as much as we do. Gardens, views and a sense of place all matter, because the afternoon should feel like a celebration of the region as much as the food.

In June 2026, our Coffs Harbour Long Lunch took place at DONOVANS Link Eatery & Grounds on the Coffs Coast. It was a beautiful example of a venue and a local team bringing a place to life, with the gardens at The Link providing a relaxed backdrop for the afternoon.

Partnering with people who love what they do

Every long lunch is a collaboration. The chef, the venue team, the producers and our guest hosts each bring something different to the table. For the Coffs Harbour Long Lunch, local chef Matt Donovan and Jane de Graaff joined us for an afternoon of regional food and conversation. We are grateful to everyone who helped make it such a special day, and you can read a short recap on our past experiences page.

Designing the afternoon

A good long lunch has a gentle rhythm. Guests arrive and settle in, there is a moment to welcome everyone, and then the food and conversation take over. Depending on the event, the afternoon might include a drink on arrival, a cooking demonstration where guests can see how the dishes come together, live music, or time to explore the venue. The details for each event are listed on its own page before you book, so you know exactly what your ticket includes.

Behind the scenes, there is plenty to coordinate: timings with the kitchen, dietary requirements shared with the venue, the flow of drinks service, music, and transport options where they are offered. Your Fun Director and our team look after these details so guests can simply enjoy the afternoon.

The shared table

The shared table is where the magic happens. Seating people together, rather than at separate tables, encourages conversation and gives the afternoon a sense of occasion. Many guests come with friends, while others come on their own and leave having met new people. Either way, the long table is a lovely leveller.

Coming up: the DVINE Long Lunch at Haven Ridge

Our next long lunch is the DVINE Long Lunch with Jane de Graaff at Haven Ridge on Saturday 24 October 2026, from 11.30am to 3.00pm AEDT, in the Port Macquarie region. Join Jane de Graaff and Chef Sion for an afternoon of regional flavours, live cooking and shared tables. The afternoon begins with bubbles, followed by their cooking demonstration and a shared long lunch with house beer, wine and soft drinks during lunch, plus live music.

Accommodation packages and optional transport can be explored through the ticket listing. These additions are separate from the lunch ticket unless included in your selected package. Visit the event page for the current ticket options and the link to book.

Tips for enjoying a long lunch

• Plan your transport. Check whether transport is offered with your ticket, or arrange a way home so you can relax.
• Share dietary requirements early. Let the organiser know about dietary needs or allergies when you book.
• Come with an open mind. Some of the best conversations happen with the person you have just met.
• Dress for the setting. Many long lunches are partly outdoors, so a layer and comfortable shoes are handy.

Join us at the table

Long lunches are one of our favourite ways to bring people together. See what is on in Upcoming Experiences, look back at past experiences, or join our mailing list to hear about new dates first.