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The Australian and British expatriate communities in Beijing will come together this Sunday at Dulwich College, Shunyi, to bid farewell to the warm months with the annual Great Aussie BBQ and the InvoCare "Ashes" cricket match.
The "Ashes" was a popular fixture on the Australian and British embassies' calendars during the 1970s, before falling by the wayside.
However, the event was resurrected last year, in conjunction with AustCham's Great Aussie BBQ, and was a resounding success.
"Dulwich College provides a great village-style atmosphere and the whole event is a superb way to head into the winter months," AustCham director Dave Garnier said.
"Australia versus England is one of world sport's great rivalries and we bring a little of that to Beijing with the embassy versus embassy match," he said.
The game, played in the increasingly popular 20/20 format, was won by the Aussies last year and the rivalry is expected to be turned up a notch this year as the Brits seek to emulate their national team and claim the "Ashes".
However, Garnier is quick to explain the day is more than just about guys in white flannels chasing a little red ball all over the ground.
"It's a great family day, too. There will be the Great Aussie BBQ, an inflatable castle and face painting for the kids and the Beijing Bombers Aussie Rules players will also hold special clinics for the youngsters," he said.
For the adults, there will be a wide variety of Australian wines and beers on sale to help wash down the BBQ fare.
Also in attendance will be the ambassadors of both countries.
Special shuttle buses will leave for the venue from Central Park from 10:30 am on Sunday and then return later in the afternoon.
The "Ashes" is somewhat ironically sponsored by international funeral service provider InvoCare. Other major sponsors include AustCham, the Beijing Bombers, MLA, China World Hotel, Santa Fe and the host, Dulwich College.
The event swings into action at Dulwich's Legend Garden campus at 11:00 am. The entry fee is 50 yuan for adults and children under 1.2 meters will be admitted free.
tymglaser@chinadaily.com.cn
(China Daily 10/19/2012 page24)
