The Friends Band (Bree Harris, Robbie Overson and Paul Fairclough)

Entering via the Round Bar and Lounge I was greeted by the events team who were more than happy to guide me through to the Long Room where the plush furnishings, chandeliers and leather all continued to maintain the sheer opulence. The Friends Band (Bree Harris, Robbie Overson and Paul Fairclough) played to the crowd in the Round Bar while the resident DJ later facilitated those with itchy feet on the Long Room dance floor.

It was on up to the Library which is the exclusive members’ room; where style guru Cathy O’Connor divulged some of her top tips to the ladies (and some curious men) in attendance. Queues formed to attend the fifteen minute inspiration sessions.

The in house caterers put on an amazing spread that seemed to be endless. From chicken legs, mini hot-dogs, potatoes in three varieties and salad not a soul left hungry. I’m told they’ll put on the same spread for any event you wish – but only if you invite me!

I’m expecting to be busy over the next couple of months, since you all be simply fabricating events to attend Lillie’s – invites to paul_at_eventznet.ie (swap _at_ with the @ symbol).

-Paul

Mark Underwood, Paul Gallagher (Eventznet), Niamh Wade & Fiona Roche [Events Team]

This was an amazing event. Held in FIRE Restaurant on Thursday 8th November it really changed my impression of how vital the role of a PA can be within a company. I never realised how much they actually did, and this event is a great way to reward them for all the great work that they do.

The food and the setting was simply superb and the free munchies vouchers and Ice Hotel stays at every place setting were a fantastic way to kick start the afternoon.

Each person had a pink envelope with which to donate any amount of money to Barretstown, which was the chosen charity. It was heartening to see that nearly everyone in the room handed one up.

Overall PA of the Year – Caitriona Redmond pictured with her boss Garrett McClean (left) from CB Richard Ellis and Marty Whelan (right).

Imagine my surprise when NEO member Fiona O'Neill from VHI was called out as a winner for the Medical & Pharmaceutical category. I've talked with Fiona a few times over the phone and it was great to put a face to the name. Congratulations again Fiona, hope to see you at the debate on the 10th December (Neo's big christmas debate).

A huge congratulations to Sandra and everyone in pa-assist.ie on the awards, they were fantastic. And Marty Whelan is one of the best MC's I have ever had the pleasure of listening to. Roll on next years awards! Congratulations to all the winners and those who were awarded with a "Highly Commended" tribute.

Just as I was finishing off this e-zine I got a really lovely e-mail from Barretstown thanking everyone for their contribution at the awards.

"On behalf of Barretstown, thank you so much for your support at the recent PA-Assist Awards. I wanted to let you know that you donated a fantastic €4,111 on the day, ensuring that more children with cancer and serious illnesses will be able to take part in Barretstown's life changing programmes".

I must say that this e-mail has cheered me up significantly. I am actually wearing a hat today (ozzie style from Melbourne) and I must take it off to everyone in pa-assist.ie. Not only have you recognised the vital role that a PA plays within a company, but you've also managed to facilitate such a fantastic contribution towards a very worthy charity.