Perfect winter weather and the relaxing garden setting of Grafton Regional Gallery’s courtyard provided the backdrop for the Friends of Grafton Gallery’s (FoGG) annual Winter Solstice Soup Day fund-raiser. The FoGG is the major sponsor of the Jacaranda Acquisitive Drawing Award and is committed to raising $15,000 bi-ennially to support this nationally renowned art prize. Clarence Valley mayor Richie Williamson introduced nine local chefs who provided soups that were luscious and sustaining and of fascinating variety. Accompanying the soups was a selection of artisinal breads made by Evey Miller, Geoff Crispin and mayor Richie, as well as loaves from the celebrated Hank’s Kitchen. Patrons sampled soups from 2015 newcomers Yamba’s Irons and Craig and Grafton’s Heart and Soul Wholefood Cafe – as well as from long-standing supporters Alchemy South Grafton, Roche’s Family Hotel, Tree Tops, Victoria’s and Vines at 139. Making their second appearance at Soup Day were Austin and Co. while the Grafton Farmers’ Market was represented by Murray and Casey Challacombe.