[Loeries 2009] Official Loeries opening - Mayor's welcome

A live mermaid on a bed of oysters, salmon and braai buffets, served by rainbow-wigged hostesses and fantasy confectionery beyond your dreams welcomed guests to the Mayor's Party which last night, 24 September 2009, officially launched the 2009 Loerie Awards in Cape Town.

Held at Charley's Bakery, the usually decrepit East City precinct was transformed into a hospitality wonderland. Dignitaries from Mayco, the Cape Town Partnership, Cape Town Tourism, sponsors, the media and industry were plied with pink sparkling wine and entertained by dazzling local outfit Nomfusi.

Comic and MC for the evening, David Newton, welcomed addresses by former HerdBuoys co-founder, Happy Ntshingila, now executive of ABSA Group Marketing Communications and Corporate Affairs and Francois Groepe, CEO of Media 24, culminating in the official mayoral welcome by executive mayor, Alderman Dan Plato.