2003's fine new addition to the WNT social calender is the Annual Gala. Perhaps our equivalent of the Brownlow, this event gives tutors the opportunity to don their finest threads and have a few drinks, laughs and a meal together in an environment significantly warmer and classier than the usual exposed street corner.

This first fabulous Gala was held at Ipoh Jaya Restaurant on a night in June 2003 and totally fulfilled its promise, setting high standards for future soirees.

One of the biggest successes of the night was the attendance of so many tutors. It was great to see that so many were able to take part in the festivities, especially newcomer Paul who had joined WNT just that week and truly helped to make the night a big hit. Other sensations included the gourmet cuisine, friendly service and that Tom Jones tribute by the one and only Tom Holbeach!

And we cannot forget to thank Chuckee! The memorable WNT Inaugural Annual Gala truly would not hold such a special place in the hearts and stomachs of all tutors who were present without the gastronomic and entertainment contributions of the affectionate, enthusiastic and very photogenic proprietor/chef of Ipoh Jaya!

Quite unquestionably, the night was a resounding success, and we look forward to the future Galas which promise to be just as unforgettable.

And such a night would not be complete without a few serious awards, and the deserving recipients were:

Wiggs: Award for the Best Comeback to Tutoring

Lili: The (Lack of) Punctuality Award

Kristen, Jodie, Paul & Clair Millar: The ‘Rolling in the Money' Award (recognising full time workers)

Pearcey: Thick-skin Award (recognises the tutor most capable of dealing with bad behaviour)

Cheryl: ‘Too cool to get out of my car' Award

James Wylie, Alice, Naomita & Lachie: The Volvo Squad

Jess: Person most likely to get lost despite going to the same building for 3 years

Pip: The Little Red Riding Hood award

Vanessa: The ‘Survivor is more fun than Tutoring' Award

Gen & Riordan- Farewell Tributes (They went travelling for a year, but are back now! -Ed)

Dan: The award for the person most likely to have a motorbike accident on the way to tutoring

James: The Autobahn Award

Ruth McFarlane: The Young Australian Tutor of the Year 2003. She was absent, so the award was collected by her older sister, Clare.

Tom & Pat: The People most likely to make a song and dance at tutoring