The new MEL FLounge is very swish and a big improvement over the old lounge. The first thing you notice is the open feeling that comes with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the tarmac (the only FLounge had no windows at all). There is a living wall (wall of plants) opposite the entrance desk. This wall did not seem as large as the pictures I have seen of the new SYD FLounge.
At 7:30pm, the FLounge was very quiet. After having my BP swiped at the entrance desk, I was escorted into the lounge by one of the staff and asked where I would like to sit and what I would like to drink. Much improved service over other QF lounges where they just swipe the BP and point you at the appropriate door. I was given a menu that included food and wine selections.
The scotch offering was disappointing – JW Black or Black Douglas. So I decided to start with some bubbles while waiting for my Veal Schnitzel to be prepared. When it was ready, I was invited to sit in the “restaurant” section or to have it in my lounge chair. I chose to sit at a table to eat. The Schnitzel was served as a “sandwich” with coleslaw and was very good indeed. I followed that with Boysenberry Ice Cream.
There were seven tables for two people and two tables for four people in the dining area, so not a huge amount. But while I was there, only one other table was being used. I expect it got a little busier later in the evening.
I retired back to my lounge chair overlooking the tarmac and settled on the Noble One wine. I love sweet desert wines and this is one of my favourites.
I had a bit of a wander around the lounge and noted about 6 PCs to the left after entering the lounge. There is also a self-serve fridge for water, soft drinks, beer and wines. Beers included James Squire, Coopers Sparkling and Pale Ales, Cascade Premium and Premium Light, and Crown. Sorry, apart from the Noble One I did not take much notice of the wines on offer. The Champaign was Moet.
There are showers at the end of lounge past the computers. These were nice, but not lavish. I had a quick shower just before boarding.
The toilets are in behind the entrance desk, through a smoked glass door. Note the door is automatic and swings outwards into the lounge. It is quite slow, so don’t be a rush to go through to the loos.
In all the time I was in the FLounge, I was never asked for my boarding pass or flight details as others have reported from the SYD and MEL FLounges. Perhaps the staff all noted my arrival early when the lounge was empty so al knew my details already?