They care for us when we’re sick, comfort us when we’re sad, feed us when we’re hungry and are proud of us no matter what, so it’s not hard to understand why we’re allocated a day each year to celebrate our mothers. To make the celebrations even more enjoyable, The Barracks will be hosting its annual Mother’s Day High Tea on Sunday May 13, 2012. Guests will be greeted with a glass of bubbles, followed by a traditional high tea and a screening of the highly anticipated comedy, The Five-Year Engagement starring Jason Segal and Emily Blunt. From the producers of Bridesmaids, this hilarious comedy charts the ups and downs of a couple who endure an unusually long engagement. The event will take place at Palace Barracks Cinemas from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm on Sunday May 13. Tickets are $45 (including booking fee) and are available for purchase online.

For enthusiasts, footy season marks the start of the social calendar. But for women who aren’t so excited about the upcoming games, Cabiria is providing a welcome distraction. Cabiria has decreed that game dates are to become Ladies nights, providing some well-deserved refuge from the boisterous crowds at the stadium. Gather up your friends and prepare to be pampered with the bar’s extensive wine and cocktail options. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax – sip on a slinky cocktail or dabble in the sumptuous smorgasbord of charcuterie options. If you are after a heartier meal, special menus are available that display the adventurous flavours of Cabiria’s kitchen – from confit duck legs to oysters. Use this time without the boys to kick up your heels for some well-deserved girl time but be sure to make a reservation online, so as not to miss out.

Author Fiona Higgins will be joining Coaldrake’s Bookshop to discuss her latest book The Mother’s Group. Higgins is already well known for her gripping Australian memoir Love in the Age of Drought. The Sydney-based writer’s second work explores the stories of six different women who comprise a regular mother’s group. The book follows their challenging personal journeys as they experience the reality of birth and motherhood, shaping each woman and testing their relationships with family and each other. At the event Fiona will discuss these themes and the inspiration behind the novel.

Event: Fiona Higgins, Author of The Mother’s Group

When: Tuesday April 3^rd, 6:00 pm for 6:30 pm

Where: Coaldrake’s Bookshop at The Barracks

Details: Tickets are $5, including light refreshments. RSVP 3367 8526

Embrace French culture with these classic Gallic inspirations.

Assorted Bread / French Twist Sample epicurean delights from the nation famous for its buttery pastry and fresh bread. Try a sourdough cob with stew or transform your breakfast with tasty traditional brioche.

Sempe Armagnac / Stewarts Wine Co. Experience a taste of France with a smooth drink from one of the oldest and most respected producers of Armagnac. The subtle aroma of plums and violets will surely entice.

Linens Unlimited Cushion / Foliage Decorate your home in the style of a French country maison. Place this herb cushion on your favourite armchair to bring the chicness of France to your living room.

The French are known for their love of fresh seafood. Put an Australian twist on this French love affair with this tasty barbecue recipe. Perfect for family meals or larger celebrations it can easily feed a gathering or a smaller group with a healthy appetite.

Serves 8/ Preparation 10 minutes / Cooking 10 minutes/ Cost $6.20 per serve

Ingredients

1⁄2 cup
1 tbsp 1⁄4 cup 8
Coles Brand Australian Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon

Chopped parsley
Cajun seasoning mix

Firm white fish fillets

Method

1. Mix together 1⁄4 cup oil, lemon juice and parsley. Set aside.

2. Place remaining oil, lemon zest and Cajun seasoning mix in a shallow bowl. Add fish and turn to coat.

3. Preheat a barbecue or chargrill on medium. Cook fish for 3-4 mins each side, or until flesh is white and flakes easily. Serve drizzled with parsley dressing.

Recipe courtesy of the Coles Summer Magazine 2012. Pick up your copy and gain some dinner time ideas at Coles at The Barracks! Or browse online here.