Parliament House
George St cnr Alice St
Brisbane
QUT Gardens Pt Ferry Terminal
1st Friday/month
10.30-12
Bookings essential
3406 7381

Here's something all Brisbane dwellers should experience once in a lifetime – a high tea in the elegant grandeur of the Strangers Dining Room where 125 years of Queensland's leaders, dignitaries and their distinguished guests have gathered.

For once a month the heavy panelled oak doors of this, the one time Members Dining Room are thrown open to the public by black-tied waiters and those-in-the-know descend to take their place at tables covered in white starched linen and set with the government's best silver.

Once everyone is seated the parliamentary wait staff in formal attire descend, bearing silver tiered stands of traditional savoury and sweet treats and pouring coffee, tea and juice to all.

To follow is an hour and a half to sit and absorb the refined atmosphere – the soaring ceilings, classical music, magnificent Tasmanian oak parquetry and ornate pillars – while partaking in the freshest sandwiches of cucumber and salmon, asparagus, bocconcini and turkey, petite quiches, fresh baked scones, dainty pastries and luscious chocolate-dipped strawberries.

When all is sipped and done, there's the option (highly recommended) of a complimentary tour of Parliament House, led by chirpy knowledgeable guides and the highlight of which is a visit to the 1860s O'Donovan Library where Queensland's first and oldest book collection is stored on the original ceiling to floor shelves.

Mothers Day and special occasions come with champagne and live music. Note that this is a highly popular event that requires a min 2 month booking.