The National Bailliage celebrated its 49th Anniversary Chapitre at the Siam Kempinski Hotel Bangkok on July 22nd, 2023.

International Vice-President Marie Jones, representing President Yam Atallah, graciously presided over the Induction Ceremony which saw the Bailliage’s largest ever number of inductees - and according to Marie the widest variety of grades she had seen for a long time.

Two new local Bailliages were created, namely the Bailliage of Bangkok Mahanakorn led by Bailli Peter Windgasse and the Bailliage of Grand North led by Bailli Aaraya Terra Surindhara. Also welcomed in post were two new Baillis: Carl Duggan leading the Bailliage of Eastern Seaboard and Bailli Kwanchai Aswawongsonti leading the Bailliage of Phuket. Of particular note was the honour the Bailliage had of hosting the appointment of Nigel Austin, Bailli Délégué of Sri Lanka, to be a prestigious Member of the Conseil Magistral.

An exquisite Gala Dinner commenced with a reception featuring Champagne Henriot cocktails as well as a beautiful Alsace Riesling from Julien Schaal with bite sized appetizers from Alsace and Champagne. All the while, members and guests were entertained by an accordion playing classical French tunes.

Upon entering the banquet hall, Bangkok’s renowned harpist, Madame Chen, provided the musical entertainment throughout the dinner which featured classical dishes from France’s most renowned wine growing regions paired with finest wines from the same areas.

Prior to dinner commencing, Ms Pirada Svasti Na Ayudhya, winner of the Bailliage’s 2023 National Final of the Jeunes Chefs Rôtisseurs, was recognised. Members wished her well for the upcoming International Final in Istanbul in October.

The evening ended in celebratory mood as we surprised our Inducting Officer with a mini birthday celebration, given it was her special day. Accolades to the Siam Kempinski’s team for an excellent evening with food well prepared and impeccable service followed. Group photos were then taken of Bailliage members together with the Kempinski team.

Joe Prasobook Thawilvejjakul
Bailli Délégué
Member of the Conseil Magistral