On a sunny Thursday evening, I was fortunate to be able to attend the SCL's opening of its social calendar for 2019: an enjoyable evening of drinks and canapes at Rookery, on Robinson Road.

Over 60 construction practitioners from the full range of practice were in attendance. Not all were thrown by the existence of the venue's twin at the other end of the road (yours truly makes no comment here). From partners to project managers and from consultants to counsel, all took the opportunity to swap stories and insights from their practice. For my own part, as a London barrister early into an extended stay in Singapore, I had possibly expected to see more unfamiliar faces than familiar ones. One is, however, frequently reminded that it is a small world: having the opportunity to raise a glass of wine or several with the first expert I cross-examined in the High Court was a good way to reminisce about having crossed swords all those years ago!

           

For those people (wrongly) not persuaded by the merits of a liquid dinner, the gathering was well looked after with a selection of excellent nibbles and canapes served by the Rookery team. Others, meanwhile, were understandably concerned about identifying the appropriate venue for the after-party. They need not have worried.

In a profession where time is short and practitioners are frequently engaged in far-flung corners of the globe, the limited opportunities for people to share their experiences are as invaluable as ever. Based on the attendance and the response last night, the membership appears to agree.

Click HERE to view event photos.