Merrill J. Fernando, the founder of Dilmah Tea flew out especially for the opening of t-House at the new gourmet food precinct, Harbourside Markets. Mr Fernando made a heart warming and inspirational speech about how he started Dilmah Tea and revolutionised many aspects of the tea industry. He spoke of the challenges he faced, especially at a time when tea was tightly controlled in Sri Lanka by the British.

Merrill was officially opening the t-House as he has been intimately involved in the project, with this opening marking the first Dilmah Tea House and concept store in Australia. Also at the opening was the acclaimed chef, Peter Kuruvita, who developed in close consultation the menu, including many of the unique Sri Lankan delicacies on offer in the high tea.

t-House has been many months in the designing and fitout, and the hard work and vision of many has resulted in an establishment we all can be proud of. We presented Mr Fernando with a special book that we wrote, entitled, Life’s Little Gems: Miracles, as from the very beginning of the project, he was an inspiration. Dilmah is unique; a brand that is founded on a passionate commitment to quality and authenticity in tea, it is also a part of a philosophy that goes beyond commerce in seeing business as a matter of human service. It is a truly ethical company that looks after its staff and has a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.

To learn more about the Dilmah story click here.