The Portsea Polo returned for 2017 on January 14, with the place to be undoubtedly the sleek Peroni Marquee. The Italian brand offered up a slice of homeland to its guests with a space inspired by the famed Amalfi Coast and the Italian notion of ‘Vita Al Mare’ or ‘life by the sea’. The custom-built marquee was a coastal-themed array of blue and bougainvillea. Elevated above the playing field, it boasted the best views to follow the key match of the day between the Peroni and Alfa Romeo teams. The Peroni haven welcomed more than 400 VIPs, media and celebrities to the space that day, including supermodel Shanina Shaik, Hacksaw Ridge star Ben Mingay, Tim Ross, and media personalities Andy Lee and Lauren Phillips. In-keeping with the Italian theme, the food was a roaming selection of antipasti and heartier dishes from the region. Think traditional orecchiette pasta, fresh seafood, pomeriggio pizza, classic Italian cannoli and one-bite Nutella doughnuts.

Guests enjoy the summer sunshine.

Italian fare was served.

The highlight of the day’s competition was the match between the Peroni and Alfa Romeo teams.

Intricate Italian-inspired roaming plates were offered to guests.

Bougainvillea adorned the Amalfi-inspired marquee.

Supermodel Shanina Shaik was one of many guests.

The elevated marquee provided guests with the best view of the field.

Guests enjoy the view.

The horses take a well-deserved break.

Elaborate platters were available to indulge in.

Guests dressed to impress at the event.

It was antipasti galore at the event.

An elevated position provided an ideal view for guests.

Plenty of Peroni was on hand throughout the day.