On a delayed MEL-BNE last night (353) - scheduled 20:50 departure pushed back to 21:55, which ended up being 22:18 push back and 22:48 wheels up...courtesy of some Melbourne fog rolling in as well. We were on VH-VUQ, so new layout, no divider or "magic rope", however didn't have any invasions from row 3 and beyond...
PDB's were taken quickly and the CM did provide sparkling water when Mr 1D asked for it...
Orders taken 1AC, 1DF, 2AC & 2DF, but as several pax did not want dinner both choices - Mac & cheese with optional chorizo or Beef Rendang - were available to all.
The Rendang had zero spice and may as well be called beef stew. It came with rice and broccoli, which was nice enough.
A glass of sparkling and a glass of pinot noir were happily provided, but no proactive refill and once plates were cleared it was lights out and no sight of cabin crew until descent.
Overall a stock standard service with nothing in particular to recommend it.