CAS Members and Friends Christmas in July 2025

  Royal Oak Hotel  

527 Bridge Rd, Richmond

Sunday 27 July 2025

Review by Jude Bridges-Tull

It is 3 years since CAS celebrated together over a Christmas lunch in July. Twenty one artists and friends all met in a cosy room space at the Royal Oak Hotel in Richmond, warmed by a friendly fire. People mingled over drinks, then settled in at the tables, admiring the Secretary’s Christmas decorations.

Lively discussions continued, on art related and numerous other topics, as guests ordered and received their meals. The food was lovely. Popular choices included the roast of the day, and various chicken parmas and schnitzels. There was also a very fresh and tasty Greek salad.

With the main courses done and the plates cleared, Robert gave a brief welcome speech and each artist was given a surprise gift by an unknown giver - a “Kris Kringle” or “Secret Santa” if you will. We were asked to wait till all the gifts were handed out, then everyone opened their gift at the same time, with much excitement, and showing each other what they got.

Pressies and delicious food were shared with wine and laughter. And just before winding up, there was a further surprise, compliments of CAS, as Robert handed everyone a little bar of chocolate. It certainly was a fun way to put faces to names and artworks - and share our latest creative endeavours.