WA | Cocktail Reception: Celebrating European and WA's ties at The Raft | French-Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry on Glue Up

Embark with us!

With just over two weeks until the big night, the French-Australian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FACCI) is excited to remind you of its Cocktail Reception! Don't miss your chance to be part of an unforgettable evening of celebration and connection at The Raft, on Thursday February 6th !

Through partnerships with European, Local, and Noongar Chambers, FACCI is proud to host the Cocktail Reception to welcome the New Year and cultivate a spirit of mutual respect, understanding, and innovation.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Perth's Swan River, this vibrant celebration highlights the growing connections between Europe and Western Australia. As Europe continues to solidify its position as a leading investor in Western Australia's diverse sectors, FACCI is committed to creating an event that celebrates this partnership while fostering new relationships and collaborations.

We are privileged to welcome Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor Bruce Reynolds from the City of Perth, who will share insights into Western Australia's dynamic present and promising future in collaboration with European countries. Joining him is Lucille Sancho, Political Counsellor at the French Embassy in Australia, will provide her perspective on advancing innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange. Their contributions will offer valuable insights and enrich discussions about the opportunities ahead for our community.

This gathering offers a unique opportunity to embrace the spirit of community, cultivate lasting connections, and anticipate the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. These annual Cocktail Receptions unite professionals from diverse sectors and cultural backgrounds, creating the perfect setting for shared growth and meaningful engagement. Don't just take our word for it! Check out last year's highlight video below, produced by Intelligent Communications.

Join us aboard The Raft, Perth's iconic floating bar and eatery, to start 2025 by building relationships and sharing moments with forward-thinking professionals.

This incredible evening is made possible thanks to the generous support of our sponsor, French Honorary Consulate, whose commitment we greatly appreciate. A big thank you as well to our product sponsor Coco Loco for providing our guests with special treats.

Relive the Magic: 2024 Cocktail Reception Highlights

Sponsorship Opportunities

If you are interested in associating your brand with this event, please reach out to tess.galloway@facci.com.au for more information.

Meet our Speakers

Bruce Reynolds

Deputy Lord Mayor Councillor at City of Perth

Lucille Sancho

Political Counsellor at French Embassy in Australia - Ambassade de France

Frederic Flipo

Honorary Consul of France at French Consulate of Perth

Jerome Monteiro

WA President at French-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Deputy Lord mayor Bruce Reynolds is a respected business owner and passionate community advocate within the City. With 28 years of entrepreneurial experience, Bruce is deeply committed to the city’s development and the welfare of its residents and stakeholders. As a long-term resident, community advocate and business owner, he brings invaluable insight into the community’s needs and aspirations.

In 1996, Bruce founded a creative consultancy specializing in digital art, finished artwork, advertising, and graphic design. His expertise also extends to property, marketing, administration, sales, and management. Also, the owner of a specialty coffee house that serves as a community hub, Bruce fosters a welcoming space for local residents and helps keep a pulse on local issues.

Beyond his business ventures, Bruce is dedicated to community service, with extensive experience in non-profit work. He has held various volunteer, board, and chair roles, and currently serves as the President of Rotary City, where he leads community engagement and fundraising efforts alongside a team of like-minded members.

Frederic Flipo has held the position of Chairman at CIL Group Pty Ltd since 2005, overseeing the distribution of consumable products, small industrial machinery, agribusiness, and exploring diverse sector opportunities.

Alongside his corporate leadership, Frederic has played roles in diplomatic and advisory capacities. Since 2014, he has served as a Trade Adviser for the French government, leveraging his expertise in trade-related matters. In 2018, he took on the role of Honorary Consul of France in Perth, nurturing and strengthening diplomatic ties between France and Australia.

His professional journey commenced with a notable tenure as the CEO of Compagnie Importation of Wool from 1992 to 2005. In this role, he oversaw operations involving sheep station properties, wool trading, and wool processing, expanding the company's global footprint through strategic investments across Europe, South and North America, South Africa, China, Australia, and New Zealand.

Prior to his leadership at C.I.L Group SAS, Frederic co-founded and managed New Deal Sport, a Paris-based chain of two stores specialising in sports equipment for students from 1989 to 1992.

Frederic Flipo has a master's degree in Agri-business from Lincoln University in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 1988.