British & Irish Lions tour manager Andy Irvine hailed the success of Melbourne’s eve of Test gala dinner for maintaining the legacy of The Lions.
Irvine was guest of honour alongside head coach Warren Gatland and his coaching team as more than 600 guests experienced an exclusive insight into The Lions, the current Tour and their history at the dinner held at the Atlantic Wharf.
"It was a fantastic event to bring the Lions closer to the people who support and follow them across the world," Irvine said.
"The dinner mixed great company and entertainment with an exclusive glimpse inside The Lions camp which is what makes them so special. They have been great to be a part of because they keep the legacy of The Lions very much alive."
Gatland was joined by his fellow coaches Andy Farrell, Graham Rowntree and Rob Howley who held the audience spellbound by answering an array of questions from host, former Lions & Scotland scrum-half Andy Nicol.
"I don't know anywhere else or in any other sport where you would have access to the coach team on the evening before one of the biggest matches in their history – that is what makes The Lions so special and different," Nicol said.
"To hear from Warren, have great company and entertainment is a fantastic way to build up to the Test match."
Guests enjoyed a three-course meal, a welcome from Irvine, a Q & A with the coaches and a closing speech from Lions legend and chairman of British Lions Limited, Gerald Davies.
"It was fantastic – a great evening and it was a real privilege to hear from Warren and his coaches so close to what is a massive Test match," said guest Steve Parry.
"We have been planning on coming on this Lions Tour for years and now we are here I can't believe it is happening – it makes the whole experience something I will never forget."
