JANUARY - JUNE 2023
THE NIGHT IT SNOWED IN SINGAPORE…
Saturday,
Gather with friends and family to ring in the Lunar New Year with a traditional steamboat buffet featuring premium meats and sumptuous seafood. An auspicious Yusheng (raw fish salad, tossed high for prosperity), fresh fruit platters and seasonal desserts complete the feast.
$88 per Adult | $30 per Child
For reservations and enquiries, call 6591 9420 or email recept@swissclub.org.sg by 14 Jan 2023. Book early to avoid disappointment.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to the first issue of Swiss Club, the magazine, for 2023. As the biannual publication of a very active Club, it’s always a challenge choosing what to include and what to leave out. The hardest task of all goes to my art director colleagues, who are responsible for selecting the photos from your events. This issue, the standouts were from the Retro Party and the Christmas Light-Up. Suffice to say – wow!
I am fortunate to have been associated with the Club, directly and indirectly, for several years now. Before joining the editorial team over six years ago, I’d visited many times before then as the guest of past Members – wonderful friends hailing from France, Denmark, Japan, New Zealand and England, who have long since moved to new postings. Based on my recollections of times past, I can honestly say that the community has never been tighter, and the events have never been more entertaining.
Please flip through these pages and enjoy your own recollections of times past, and look forward to many more great times ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Suzanne Lauridsen Editor, Swiss ClubSwiss Club magazine is edited and designed by SPEcial Pte Ltd.
Content is curated by Swiss Club Marketing.
Suzanne Copy
E: suzy@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 9820 9520
Pam Liaison
E: pam@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 9871 0666
MCI (P) 038/01/2023
Edwin Art
E: edwin@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 8500 2975
Trick Photographer
E: trick@spe-cial.com
T: (65) 8511 5746
swissclub.org.sg
•
•
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CLUB
Aaron Lim, General Manager
E aaron.lim@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9457
Adrian Vogt, Deputy General Manager & F&B Manager
E adrian.vogt@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9428
FINANCE
Ng Wei Long, Finance Manager
E weilong.ng@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9450
MEMBERSHIP
Serene Yee, Member Relations Manager
E serene.yee@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9426
MARKETING, BANQUET & EVENTS
Riza Mazlan, Marketing & Events Manager
E riza.mazlan@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9436
Ida Isnin, Assistant Banquet Sales Manager
E ida.isnin@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9430
SPORTS & RECREATION
Elvis Tan, Sports & Recreation Manager
E elvis.tan@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9438
FACILITIES & MAINTENANCE
Kumar Samy, Facilities Manager
E samy.kumar@swissclub.org.sg
DID 6591 9451
Thomas von Rueti President
E president@swissclub.org.sg or Thomas.vonrueti@swissclub.org.sg
Caroline Steger Deputy President, Marketing & Membership Subcommittee
E deputypres@swissclub.org.sg or Caroline.steger@swissclub.org.sg
Dominic Schacher Treasurer
E treasurer@swissclub.org.sg or Dominic.schacher@swissclub.org.sg
Adrian Jacklowsky HR Subcommittee
E Adrian.jacklowsky@swissclub.org.sg
Adrian Luedi Sports Subcommittee
E Adrian.luedi@swissclub.org.sg
Geraldine Ernst Sports Subcommittee
E Geraldine.ernst@swissclub.org.sg
Pooja Agarwal
F&B Subcommittee
E Pooja.agarwal@swissclub.org.sg
William Forwood Property Subcommittee
E William.forwood@swissclub.org.sg
Valerie Conxicoeur F&B Subcommittee
E Valerie.conxicoeur@swissclub.org.sg
Michael Bell Secretary
E secretary@swissclub.org.sg or Michael.bell@swissclub.org.sg
Name
Frank & Krisztina Gruetter
Daniel Caderas & Sabrina
Mariani-Caderas
Alexandre & Alexandra Geiger
Christian & Jasmin Weissmann
Marlies & Bryce Boland
Type of Membership
Diplomatic
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary
Ordinary / Associate
Norman & Catherine Joy Buerzle Ordinary / Associate
Yolande Monika Escher-Dwivedi & Prashant Dwivedi
Alycia Graemer & David Brady
Basil Kroepfli & Sarah Grimmer-Kroepfli
Alexander & Petra Lauren Lerch
Andreas Nessi & Nessi-Chow Yingjie
Petra Paavilainen & Robert Habib
Patricia & Jean Carlos Rojas Herrera
Michele & Kieth Sandilands
Robin & Julia Singer
Benjamin Samuel Treves & Treves-Kim Joo Yeon
Alexandra & Robin Von Stauffenberg
Martje & Monica Abeldt
Paul & Judy Aherne
Bruno Aissaoui & Celine Leroyer-Aissaoui
Andrew John & Jodie Marie Bishop
Peter Macrae & Belinda Mary Boa
Servan Boutry & Amelie Francoise Catherine Douay-Boutry
Samuel & Miranda Boyling
Reinhard Brunmeir & Joanna Rajeswary Sinnakannu
Kevin & Carrie Xiao Wan Burke
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Ordinary / Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Yeshan David Chen & Chi Ning Emma Loh-Chen Associate
Chow Ho Tak & Chow-Saris Stella
Tama-Richard & Nicola Churchouse Associate
Anne Lepissier-Coldeboeuf & Gildas Coldeboeuf Associate
Nicholas Liewellyn & Maria Davies Associate
Olivier & Anne-Sophie De Saignes Associate
Brian & Erin Dillard
Robert David Drake-Brockman & Rachel Charlotte Jones
Sean & Mihaela Donovan
Rodolphe Fournier & Marianne Athouel-Fournier
Fabienne Hankard & Marc Van De Walle
Associate
Associate
Hee Leo Keen Loong & Watavat Sukhyanga-Hee Associate
Matthew Henderson & Henderson-Chow Pei San
Elliot Alexander & Aimee Victoria Hillman
Ho Yau Chung Robert & Raquel Maria Emo Rojo
Lincoln Hsu & Nina Zhou-Hsu
Isabelle Ireland & Jean Louis Neves Mandelli
Alun & Sarah James
Kang Dae Hyuk Jason & Oh Ji Sun
Christian Keiber & Keiber-Chittanuntana Bussarakhum
Jessica & Justin Matthew Knight
Law Elesse Sook Ying & Jasper Neuteboom
Benjamin James & Amalia Lazarus
Ciaran & Davina Londra
Hannah & Christopher Madsen
Rafael Manalac & Erica Swan-Manalac
Penelope Brooke Martin & William George Boyd
Pierre Millereau & Iva Bravic-Millereau
Terence & Annabel Montgomery
Andrea & Lisa Nassi
Andrew Charles & Victoria Nicholson
Juan Diego Charles Hubert Olaechea & Arena Patricia De Osma
Jean Francois Olmer & Ombeline De Besombes-Olmer
*Joined between 1 July 2022 to 30 November 2022
Name
Carlo Passino & Passino-Heng Ling Yu
Matthew Richard Thomas Penn & Kay Chester-Penn
Steve Phan & Melissa Bacani-Phan
Nicole Plumez & Bryce Kelly
Georgiann & Jamie Reigle
Carolin & Philipp Reiss
Hugo Ridder Huyssen Van Kattendijke & Lucinda Claire Turnbull
Caspar Schlickum & Tamara Holland-Martin Schlickum
Daljeet Singh Sidhu & Hardip Kaur Gill-Sidhu
Lee Smith & Smith-Goh Hui Shyan
Nick Smith & Nina Harvey-Smith
Ying Staton & Mok Chee Liang
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Lioenl Steinitz & Clarisse Hamel-Steinitz Associate
Tan Wee Bin Vivian Associate
Ben & Kirsty Taylor-Robinson
Associate
Riccardo Triani & Petria Brits-Triani Associate
Paul Valentin & Mara Vavassori-Valentin Associate
Jacco Van Der Linden & Eline Zeggelink-Van Der Linden Associate
Erwan Claude Daniel Vilfeu & Patricia Martine Marie Barade-Vilfeu
Alexander Antonius Wachtmeister & Sylvia Lipp-Wachtmeister
Associate
Associate
Wang Guannan & Moshe Shen Associate
Simon Weller & Amy Beckingham-Weller
Nicholas & Laura Williams
Associate
Associate
Alexander & Jacqueline Wolf Associate
Yeo Zong Xing Philip & Yeo-Lim Boon Lan Betty Associate
David Bachelier & Geraldine Gauthier-Bachelier
Sheinal Bhuralal & Bhuralal-Cheng Jacqueline
Maximilian Englisch & Lisa Rauterberg
Melissa Lim-Hardoon & David Hardoon
Associate Transferable
Associate Transferable
Associate Transferable
Associate Transferable
Lassalvy-Chua Cher Mei & Laurent Lassalvy Associate Transferable
Dharshika Solomons & Alexander Staab
Associate Transferable
Marc & Lynsey Briek Non-Swiss
Choy Cheng Teng
Varun & Anu Sethi
Sharon & Michael Agam
Greg Blackwood
Yves Briantais & Anne Elise Lanskin-Briantais
Andrea Buetler
Cinzia Cannuli-Dierks & Mirko Dierks
Christophe Pierre Cretot & Heloise Di-Menza-Cretot
Martijn & Sophie De Blauwe
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Associate
Marco De Martin & Eugenia Del Favero-De Martin
Federico Di Credico & Manuela Sculli-Di Credico
Bertrand & Cecile Garnier
Galvin Brett Graham & Stuart Ian Baillie
Andrea & Frederik Groth
Puneet & Ishita Gupta
Tim Jones & Eva Papadakis-Jones
Bernhard & Cordula Kotanto
Adyl Laraki & Maryam Belqadi
Paul Lees
Noel Magnay & Ines Loechner-Magnay
Andre Karl & Veronica Philomena Misso
Matt & Amy Morin
Barbara Nano & Luca Serafino Tonello
Henrik Naujoks & Mirjam Schoening-Naujoks
Greig Newby & Brooke Davies-Newby
Christine & Marc Niebuhr
Maxine & Jonathan Palmer
Paul & Vanessa Robine
Jean-Pierre Saf & Claire Langree-Saf
Wolfgang Schoch
Axel Schweitzer & Nina Tam Schweitzer
Michael & Caroline Shleifer
Stanislav & Marina Sologubov
Guilhem Julien Souche & Sandrine Muscat-Souche
Victor & Sandrine Tesniere
Claudia Helena Villasis-Wallraff & Martin Wallraff
I hope you had a wonderful festive season and were able to enjoy peaceful days with your families and friends. It is a great pleasure for me to address you for the first time in the Swiss Club Magazine as the Swiss Ambassador in Singapore.
The past year has been an eventful one. On the one hand, we saw a very positive development with the lifting of COVID-19 measures. It is wonderful to finally enjoy all the good sides of life again – such as dinners and luncheons with business partners and friends, cultural and sporting events, and the resumption of social activities at the Swiss Club and much more. On the other hand, we had to witness the outbreak of a devastating war in Europe that has cost tens of thousands of lives. The ripple effects of the war in Ukraine are severe and felt around the world in the forms of food and energy crises, mass migration, military armaments and political polarisation. We can only hope that this war as the many other armed conflicts around the globe will soon come to an end.
medical technology, aircraft maintenance and cosmetics. A special highlight was the Fintech Festival in November where the Swiss pavilion presented 20 cutting-edge Swiss enterprises. Together with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), we also organised the ‘Point Zero Forum Night’ to discuss how digitalisation can advance sustainability in the financial sector. The event took place in the beautiful setting of the newly renovated Pavilion of the Swiss Club, which undoubtedly added to its success.
Frank Grütter has been Switzerland’s Ambassador to Singapore since August 2022. He has over 24 years of experience in the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA), having worked at the Swiss embassies in London and Madrid, and at the Swiss Mission to the United Nations (UN) in New York. Prior to Singapore, he was responsible for Switzerland’s policy in international security matters and cybersecurity. He then became UN and international organisations director, leading Switzerland’s successful campaign for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Ambassador Grütter holds degrees in economics and law from the University of St. Gallen and studied international relations at the Spanish School of Diplomacy in Madrid.
On a personal level, I am pleased to share that I have adjusted well to my posting in Singapore, not least thanks to the Swiss Club and its community. Since our arrival in August 2022, my family and I have settled in with ease, quickly familiarising ourselves with the Lion City. From day one we felt very welcome and supported. We have made new friends and feel at home. I wish to sincerely thank everyone who has supported us in our transition to a new country, a new school, and a new job.
The embassy has also been busy throughout the year. Some of the highlights were our participation in the Francophonie Festival in March as well as the Swiss Weeks from March to April 2022. In summer, we unveiled the +Pavilion, a temporary design installation at Marina Barrage, showcasing sustainability in design and construction. In the autumn, we organised several Swiss pavilions at international trade fairs in areas such as
The upcoming year promises to be as exciting as the last, as we are expecting several high-level visitors in Singapore. In cooperation with the MAS, we will again assist in the organisation of the ‘Point Zero Forum’, a new international fintech festival in Zurich taking place for the second time next June. Here in Singapore, we will continue with our campaign to promote Switzerland as a tourist destination. Have you seen any of the four public buses that showcase the beauty of Switzerland with its four seasons? You can still catch them until the end of February. For more ‘Swissness’, don’t miss out on watching the Swiss Team racing at the Sail GP from 14 to 15 January, and do join us for the Francophonie Festival in March! In April, we will be screening a Swiss film as part of the European Union Film Festival. If you wish to stay updated on our events and activities, please follow us on our Facebook page (@SwissEmbassySingapore) or on my twitter account (@SwissAmbSGP).
On behalf of my team, I wish you a Happy New Year filled with peace, harmony and prosperity.
With warm greetings,
Frank Grütter Ambassador of SwitzerlandI AM PLEASED TO SHARE THAT I HAVE ADJUSTED WELL TO MY POSTING IN SINGAPORE, NOT LEAST THANKS TO THE SWISS CLUB AND ITS COMMUNITY.
F. GrütterArticle and photos courtesy of Embassy of Switzerland in Singapore
I WANT TO THANK YOU, OUR MEMBERS, FOR YOUR TREMENDOUS SUPPORT DURING THE YEAR. WE ALSO THANK YOU FOR YOUR FEEDBACK, WHETHER VIA YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THE MEMBER SURVEY OR DIRECT FEEDBACK TO THE TEAM.
I am sure many of you took the opportunity to travel during the festive season, enjoying time with friends and family – something that had been challenging or even impossible for the last two years. For those who remained in Singapore, I hope you had the opportunity to enjoy some time at the Club.
As we bid farewell to 2022 – another year to remember – it is, as always, an excellent time to reflect on the past year and, even more importantly, look forward to a new year full of opportunities and, no doubt, some challenges.
In 2022, we finalised our major Club upgrading project. It started with the pool area, followed by the main Clubhouse, and concluded with our Pavilion receiving a well-deserved upgrade. I feel sure you’ll agree that it was worth the effort, and makes our Club an even better place in which to spend quality time in Singapore. For those Members who didn’t visit the Club often in 2022, perhaps spending more time at the Club can be part of your New Year’s resolution!
I am confident that you’ll also agree with me when I say that the Management team of the Swiss Club has done a tremendous job in 2022. Events have been successfully relaunched, with the Swiss National Day and the Oktoberfest as the clear highlights. We’ve also enjoyed many other smaller, well-executed events, from quiz nights to the glamorous 80s party. A massive thank you goes to the Management and
the entire team for going the extra mile to deal with all the uncertainties and making the impossible happen.
I want to thank you, our Members, for your tremendous support during the year. We also thank you for your feedback, whether via your participation in the Member Survey or direct feedback to the team.
You can look forward to an action-packed 2023. The team has planned a lot of exciting sports and social activities as well as culinary promotions, dozens of smallerscale events and, of course, our key events from the Summerfest to the Swiss National Day celebrations and the Oktoberfest. We hope to see you participate in many of these wonderful gatherings. Your first opportunity will be the upcoming Chinese New Year festivities!
On behalf of the Management team, all our employees and my fellow Committee Members, I wish you and your loved ones Happy Holidays and a prosperous, healthy and Happy New Year in 2023.
What motivated us then, motivates us now –to be the best school in the world.
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Visit www.tts.edu.sg
First things first – Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!
Of course, a new year is always a fitting time to look back on the one we just left behind, and what an eventful year it was. I mean that quite literally, as it was in 2022 that the Swiss Club welcomed back its signature events of Swiss National Day, Oktoberfest, and our spectacular Christmas Light-Up. We also debuted a new event that will no doubt enjoy a comeback this year. That event was our Retro Party. To say it was fun would be an understatement. Take a look at the photos on Page 28 – 30 of this issue, and I’m sure you’ll get the picture.
All our major events were resounding successes, as well as our minor ones. From Social Quiz Nights to Apero Tennis Socials to children’s weekend workshops, every single one was well attended and, thanks to my hardworking colleagues, well organised. However, in the course of the year, it became apparent that there was one very important group of Members who had been relatively neglected. That group was youth – specifically, young Members aged between 13 and 18. Too old to attend children’s events, yet not old enough to attend adults’ ones, they had been largely left to amuse themselves at the Club. Thanks to our excellent sports facilities and great Wi-Fi, that wasn’t too great a problem. And yet it didn’t seem fair. And so we hatched a plan – to form a Youth Committee for the ideation of youth-focused events.
Our inaugural Youth Committee comprises 10 amazing young people, who have generously stepped up to assume the responsibility of conceptualising and organising events for this ‘in-between’ age group. Our inaugural Youth Committee comprises 10 amazing young people, who have generously stepped up to assume
the responsibility of conceptualising and organising events for this ‘in-between’ age group. For each event, they will be given a budget to spend under the supervision of Club management and staff. (Great real-life lessons in financial literacy!) We had our first Youth Committee meeting on 2 December, and it was a most productive think tank.
Not only the success of our events, but also the popularity of our restaurants is ample evidence of just how much we were all craving a return to ‘normal’ after the long ordeal of the coronavirus pandemic. On that topic, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your compliance with COVID-19 safe management measures. Though we are not quite out of the woods yet, the peaks in new cases are getting shorter and the troughs are getting longer. Hopefully by the time I write my message for the next issue of this magazine, we’ll be living in a virtually COVID-free world.
In the weeks and months to come, I hope to see you all enjoying the wonderful facilities of your beautiful Club, and in attendance at the exciting events we have on our calendar. They include a Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner and traditional lion dance, a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner, delicious Easter and Mother’s Day brunches, and more.
Here’s to good health and good times in 2023!
Yours sincerely,
Aaron Lim General Manager, Swiss Club Swiss Club – Home for all Nationalities
IN THE WEEKS AND MONTHS TO COME, I HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL ENJOYING THE WONDERFUL FACILITIES OF YOUR BEAUTIFUL CLUB, AND IN ATTENDANCE AT THE EXCITING EVENTS WE HAVE ON OUR CALENDAR.
For the safety of everyone, especially young children, Members and their guests are strongly encouraged to reverse-park. Please always park within marked parking lots.
For the safety of our neighbouring schools’ students, please reduce your vehicles’ speed during drop-off and pick-up times, in the early morning and mid-afternoon on school days.
Please remember to always return your used pool towels, or risk incurring a charge of $16.05 (including GST) per unreturned towel. Please also note that deck chairs cannot be reserved.
Out of fairness to all Members, please note that non-F&B Club facilities are not open to your guests (non-Members) on weekends. However, you are welcome to host your guests at our restaurants on both weekdays and weekends.
To facilitate Club security and avoid delays on entry, please remember to change your car decal to a 2023 decal by the end of March 2023.
A gentle reminder that Members’ Birthday Vouchers are now eVouchers, valid for 3 months from the birthday month of issue.
Please comply with the following rules when you visit the Swiss Club.
1. Bring your membership card every time you visit the Club.
2. Present your membership card when dining at our F&B outlets and upon the request of Club staff.
JUNGLE COVE
(Last food order 9.30pm)
Mon – Thu: 11.30am – 10pm (Last order of food & beverage 9.45pm)
Fri: 11.30am – 11pm (Last order of food 9.45pm)
Sat, Sun & PH: 10am – 11pm (Last order of food 9.45pm)
Dinner reservations only Dress code: Casual
PERGOLA
(Last food order 9.30pm)
Mon – Thu: 8am – 11pm (Last beverage order 10.30pm)
Fri, Sat & Eve of PH: 8am – 11pm (Last beverage order 10.30pm)
Sun: 8am – 10.30pm (Last beverage order 10pm)
Breakfast daily: 8am – 11am
Dinner reservations only
Dress code: Casual (no bath towels)
DINING RESERVATIONS
W www.swissclub.org.sg/restaurants
T 6591 9420 F 6591 9452
3. Membership cards are strictly non-transferable.
4. Display your Swiss Club car decal on your car windscreen at all times when entering Club premises.
ARBENZ RESTAURANT
Mon & Tue: Closed
Wed – Sun: 11.30am – 3pm (Last food order 2.15pm) & 6pm – 11pm (Last food order 9.30pm, last beverage order 10.45pm)
Lunch and dinner reservations are recommended
Dress code (lunch): Smart casual (smart shorts, no slippers and singlets)
ARBENZ LOUNGE TERRACE (Drinks only, no dining)
Mon & Tue: Closed
Wed – Sun: 11.30am – 3pm & 5.30pm – 11pm (Last beverage order 10.45pm)
Dress code (lunch and dinner): Smart casual (no shorts, slippers and singlets)
Club Premises
Daily: 7am – 12mn
The Guesthouse/Reception
Daily: 9am – 8pm
Room Reservations:
E recept@swissclub.org.sg
T 6591 9420
Daily Tennis/Padel Court 7am-11pm
Football Field 7am-11pm*
Gym 7am-11pm
Multicourt 7am-11pm*
Leisure Pool 7am-10pm
Mon – Fri Lap Pool 6pm – 10pm
Sports Hall** Only available for exclusive bookings.
Please approach Reception for more information.
BANQUET RESERVATIONS
E ida.isnin@swissclub.org.sg
T 6591 9430
For restaurant reservations, please call 6591 9420, from 10am – 7pm. After office hours, please call 6591 9431
Weekends, Public and Chatsworth School Holidays
Lap Pool 7am – 10pm
Sports Hall** Only available for exclusive bookings.
Please approach Reception for more information.
Sunday, 9 April 2023, 11am – 2.30pm, Pavilion
Celebrate Easter with your loved ones at our legendary Easter Sunday buffet brunch. Parents – kick back and relax while your little ones are entertained with egg painting and an exciting Easter Egg Hunt!
AFTER THE PANDEMIC HAD FORCED US TO SUSPEND PHYSICAL CELEBRATIONS FOR TWO YEARS, WE FINALLY RESUMED THE ANNUAL TRADITION OF OUR SWISS NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION IN 2022. HERE ARE SOME HAPPY SNAPS AND HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WONDERFUL EVENING OF SATURDAY 6 AUGUST, WHEN WE CELEBRATED THE 731ST BIRTHDAY OF SWITZERLAND AT THE SWISS CLUB.
A LITTLE BIT OF SWISS CLUB HISTORY…
Founded back in 1971 by a group of Swiss pioneers, the Swiss Club was initially called the Swiss Rifle Shooting Club, and yes, as the name said, there were gathered for serious shooting practice. (No worries, there is no more shooting at the Club.)
AFTER A HIATUS OF TWO YEARS, OUR ANNUAL SIGNATURE EVENT FINALLY MADE A COMEBACK IN 2022. AS PER TRADITION, THE EVENT SPANNED FIVE DAYS, FROM 14 TO 18 SEPTEMBER, CULMINATING IN THE FAMILY-MINDED FRÜHSCHOPPEN SUNDAY.
THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS OF REVELLERS
Around 12,000 guests, comprising Swiss Club Members, our corporate sponsors and their guests, and ticket-holding members of the public, partied in an air-conditioned tent of epic proportions.
The long-awaited Oktoberfest delivered everything regulars had come to expect –live music performed by the award-winning Musikkapelle Partenkirchen brass band, direct from Munich, Germany, a mouthwatering feast of hearty German and Swiss delicacies, endless rivers of cold beer on tap, and more.
“MADONNA” BELTS OUT HER HITS
A special guest performer, Madonna tribute artist Adriana Lee, got everyone up and dancing. Born in Jacksonville, Florida, USA, Adriana loves Asia – and loves spreading the joy of music with the world. She wowed the crowd with her authentic costumes and very convincing renditions of Madonna’s greatest hits.
While the Swiss Club staff were totally consumed by the massive task of pulling off such an event, the guests did a good job of quaffing beer and devouring meat. The numbers speak…
OKTOBERFEST 2022 BY NUMBERS
Beer consumed 19,080L
Roast ox 900kg
Sausages 1,480kg
Jägermeister 8,800 bottles
When we asked Aaron, our General Manager, how he felt at the end of Oktoberfest, he mustered up the energy to utter one word – “Surreal!”
After a brief pause, he added, “I speak for all of my amazing team here at the Swiss Club when I say, we’d do it all again in a heartbeat. This year, probably more than any other year in living memory, our guests needed to experience the joy of gathering with friends, enjoying good food, good drink and good music, and simply having an uncomplicated good time. I hope we delivered.”
Aaron, the photos speak for themselves. Once again, the Swiss Cub delivered the best party of the year – or in this case, the best party in three long, dry years.
Can’t wait for the next Oktoberfest? Hopefully nothing will get in the way of Singapore’s best party of the year in 2023.
As per tradition, our 2022 Oktoberfest included a charity event on 11 September, when we hosted some 230 very special guests from A Ray of Hope – a local crowdfunding charity that supports people who have fallen through the cracks of our society, and their families. The occasion was graced by the Ambassador of Switzerland, His Excellency Frank Grütter.
Our guests tucked into a yummy kid-friendly menu that included popular favourites like mini chicken schnitzel burgers, aglio olio and Blackforest cake. A magic show, balloon sculpting and free-flow popcorn and candy floss kept the kids enthralled.
Case Manager Hana, a spokesperson for A Ray of Hope, said, “Our beneficiaries certainly had fun during the event. A lot of them reached out to say that they would love to be invited again next year. To Swiss Club, thank you for inviting and hosting our beneficiaries and helping them make these lasting memories.”
WE FINALLY GOT TO CELEBRATE HALLOWEEN AT THE SWISS CLUB ON 29 OCTOBER 2022. THE CELEBRATION WAS A SPOOK-TACULAR AFFAIR.
118 BRAVE SOULS
A bumper turnout of 118 kids and kids-at-heart attended the event in their creepiest costumes. The Swiss Club grounds were haunted by skeletons, demonic-looking minions, witches, ghouls, pirates, blood-soaked doctors, devils, superheroes, vampires, and even a cute Pokemon ‘Eevee’ and a little pharoah!
THE FREAKY FEAST
After receiving a ‘Vampire Kiss’ (non-alcoholic welcome drink), the revellers tucked in to diabolically delish dishes including: Nacho Chips with Green Vomit, Devilled Eggs, Poison Cold Soup (aka gazpacho), Monster Eye Ball Pasta with Blood Sauce, and Vampire Steak (aka Australian grass-fed ribeye). The Eyeball Pop Cake was a head-turning crowd-pleaser!
THE HAUNTED HOUSE
A highlight of the event was the haunted house, which saw long queues forming. Little ones braved it alone or with friends, while some needed the support of a grownup chaperone.
Here’s what we overhead some survivors saying.
- Micah “Traumatised…”
- Poppy Spells
“The nun was the scariest!”
- Veronica
“Fun! Not tooscary!”
- Anouk
“That was evil… Let’sgoagain!”
- Anonymous
“Thatwasseriouslyscary–especiallythe‘clownguy’!”
“Superand veryscary!”
- Lucia
“Scary,scary!”
- Juliette, Adele and Marj
“Reallygood, prettyscaryand intense… Let’s goagain!”
- Martin, Tyler and Laurent
Many thanks to everyone who entered the spirit of the occasion.
The DJ came with his own impressive collection of vinyls, spinning and spanning everything from pop to disco, and everyone from Madonna, Cyndi Lauper and (early) Kylie Minogue to Boy George, Bon Jovi and WHAM.
The dance floor got a pounding all night long as the tireless revellers drew on seemingly endless reserve tanks of tequila-fuelled energy.
It was a star-studded night indeed. We spotted remarkable lookalikes of Bruce Lee, Bjorn Borg, Sir Elton John, Don Johnson, Jane Fonda and Tina Turner. Several Members paid tribute to their favourite 80s movie stars and came dressed and meticulously styled in the guise of Marty McFly (Back to the Future), Daniel LaRusso (The Karate Kid), Maverick and Goose (Top Gun), and more.
Congratulations to the runners-up and winners of the Best-Dressed Male and Best-Dressed Female contests. Ultimately, ‘Prince’ and ‘Tina’ took home the trophies – or rather, the bottles of champagne.
WE SALUTE THE PARTY PLANNERS
Thanks to all the party animals who entered into the spirit of the occasion. We partied like it’s – move over 1999, and apologies to Prince – 2022!
And lastly, kudos to the Swiss Club team who turned back time (sorry, Cher) and made the Retro Party a reality.
Movie Night: Brave Kids’ Clay Making Workshop
Glamping Starts (till 15 July)
FOR MANY, THE CHRISTMAS SEASON TRULY BEGAN AT THE SWISS CLUB, ON SUNDAY, 4 DECEMBER 2022. IT HAD ALL THE MAKINGS OF A MAGICAL DAY – A CHRISTMAS MARKET, CHRISTMAS TREES, A DAZZLING LIGHT-UP, CAROLS, AND TO TOP IT ALL OFF… SNOW!
The day kicked off at 11am, when the Christmas Market opened at the Pavilion and function rooms. Expertly curated by veteran market organiser Silk Walk, it was an ideal opportunity for early Christmas gift-buying. Among the wonderful and whimsical wares for sale were hand-poured candles, handcrafted jewellery, inlaid enamel trinkets, dried flower and resin homewares, original watercolour paintings, apparel, hats, bags, imported European toys, home-baked goods, boutique wines and small-batch Canadian gin.
We noticed a theme of sustainability connecting many of the vendors, several of whom sold apparel and accessories made from repurposed waste materials. A standout stall was manned by Swiss Club Member Arthur Zaaro, whose small business upcycles timber from Singapore’s felled trees and fashions them into cutting boards, cheese boards and other functional items.
Our annual Christmas Light-Up commenced at around 6.45pm, at the roundabout in front of the Clubhouse. The grownups and children enjoyed age-appropriate tipples of malt wine and cranberry juice, served with delicious Christmas cookies, as talented bi-lingual children from the Swiss School in Singapore (SSiS) sang Christmas carols – in French and English!
After a short speech by our General Manager Aaron, the lights came on – to a chorus of ‘wows’ and gasps of astonishment. Then, when the snow machine cranked up and snow started falling, eyes widened and mouths hung open in disbelief. It was a heartwarming and lovely sight to behold!
The Club’s premises were dressed for the occasion with seven exquisitely decorated Christmas trees, a first-time collaboration between the Swiss Club and our good neighbours at the Swiss School.
The largest tree of all was a very merry affair, fashioned from 384 repurposed champagne and wine bottles. The contents had been enjoyed on the premises throughout the year, and the bottles were thoughtfully saved and used to fashion the majestic tree planted in the middle of the roundabout. The other six trees graced Arbenz, Rifle Lounge, Pergola, the Guesthouse, the Pavilion, and the Diethelm Keller function room.
A VERY SPECIAL VISITOR
A week after the Christmas Light-Up, on Sunday, 11 December 2022, the Swiss Club welcomed a very special visitor – none other than the jolly old man in red, Santa Claus himself.
Last year’s Meet Santa event attracted an almost-record turnout of 57 children. A little thing like rain couldn’t keep them away. After all, it’s not every day you get to meet Santa!
Santa’s cosy corner was adorned with a ‘real’ fireplace and a Christmas tree expertly decorated by Swiss School students. Clearly, all youngsters present had been distinctly more nice than naughty, as nobody left empty-handed.
As the photos show, Christmas was extra-special at the Swiss Club in 2022.
WITH A NEW YEAR COMES NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO GET OUT ON THE TENNIS COURT AND PLAY. HERE ARE SOME OF THE MANY WAYS YOU CAN GET YOUR HITS AT THE SWISS CLUB.
We encourage all junior players to participate in one of our 37 weekly classes, holiday camps, or JTTL teams.
Tennis equips you with lifelong skills that are transferable to almost any situation – commitment, confidence, teamwork, good sportsmanship and strategic thinking among them.
Adult players can enjoy one of our new cardio tennis and beginners’ classes, or join in our WITS team training with a view to competing in local tournaments.
Our popular Apero Tennis Socials on Wednesday nights are a great light workout and fun night out in one. Do come!
Registration for all classes, private lessons and events is now available online at fortyfifteen.net. All the information you need is now at your fingertips.
Fulfilling our promise to multiply opportunities to play, we recently organised our first quarterly tournament of the season. In addition, our U10, U14 and U16 teams participated in the SG Junior Team Tennis League. It was a great performance from the Warriors, finishing in third place!
Our adult mixed doubles tournament was a great success. Congratulations to the winners of the open category, Hiroko and Bill, and to the winners of the intermediate category, Emma and Charlie.
Congratulations are also in order for our WITS Tennis Teams, who all enjoyed a wonderful season of tennis. The A Team put in a fantastic performance to finish in third place!
Young Swiss Club Member, Phay Kai Chuen, had his first international tournament win by taking out the Under 14 Boys’ Singles Title in the Sarawak ATF (Asian Tennis Federation) Tournament in Malaysia. Kai played his way through the qualifying rounds to enter the tournament, and then proceeded to win all his main draw matches, taking out the final 0-6 7-6 (6) 6-4 in a very tight match, after saving two match points. In addition, Kai finished runner-up in the doubles. Well done to Kai on a great week in Malaysia. We look forward to seeing him go from strength to strength in the coming years.
Registration for our Junior Term 2 session, from 9 January to 24 June, is now open. Visit us on fortyfifteen.net to register today.
Happy holidays to all Members. We look forward to seeing you back on the court soon!
INTERESTED IN PLAYING TENNIS AT THE SWISS CLUB?
E swissclub@forty-fifteen.com
W fortyfifteen.net
AS WE LOOK BACK WITH PRIDE ON THE ACHIEVEMENTS OF 2022, WE’D LIKE TO WISH ALL SWISS CLUB MEMBERS A HAPPY NEW YEAR. NOW, LET’S DIVE INTO 2023!
The year 2022 was an unforgettable one for aquaDucks. After a break of a few years, the Neptune League was finally back in the swim. The Swiss Club Championship was a great source of recognition and a well-deserved celebration for our children.
Our coaches worked very hard all year long to provide Members with word-class lessons and training at the beautiful Swiss
Club. And the results were fantastic. The Swiss Sharks represented the Club in all the Interclub championships, and some even broke some long-standing records. Well done, Swiss Sharks!
We are looking forward to continuing to our swimming lessons and swim training throughout 2023. During school holidays, we will be holding swim camps in the
mornings for children from the ages of 5 years old. Every quarter, we will also be hosting swimming competitions for both junior swimmers (5 to 8 years old) and senior swimmers (9 to 16 years old).
Swimming lessons and training are available at the Swiss Club for all ages – and for the entire family. Our lessons are available six days a week, Mondays to Saturdays. Join us!
ADULTS’ STROKE CORRECTION/TRAINING
When: Every Tuesday evening at 7.15pm (1 hour)
Fee per Person : $130.00 per month
Fee per Couple : $175.00 per month
FREE TRIAL LESSONS
To enjoy a free trial lesson, please email Swiss@aquaducks.com.sg with the age and current swimming level/skills of the swimmer and their preferred timing (day/time). We will provide you with a range of available options.
MAKE-UP LESSONS
If you miss your lesson due to bad weather/ sickness/travel, please email us to schedule a make-up lesson. We sincerely strive to ensure that Members receive all the lessons they pay for.
A gentle reminder to fill up the Cancellation Form 5 days before the start of the month if you are travelling for work or leisure, or would like to stop your lessons.
Please note that only cancellations received via the Cancellation Form on the Swiss Club website are accepted (verbal notice will not suffice).
To ensure space for other Members and to avoid your account being charged when you are not active in the swimming programme, please cancel on time to avoid incurring the full month’s (non-refundable) fee. Thank you for your understanding and compliance.
INTERESTED IN SWIMMING LESSONS OR TRAINING AT THE SWISS CLUB?
Please contact aquaDucks at:
E swiss@aquaducks.com.sg
FREQUENT GYM-GOERS WILL BE FAMILIAR WITH THE SAYING, “NEVER SKIP LEG DAY!”. AND THERE ARE GOOD REASONS FOR IT. FOR STARTERS, YOUR LEGS MAKE UP THE BIGGEST MUSCLE GROUP IN YOUR BODY.
Whether you are looking to increase muscle mass, lose body fat, or improve sports performance, building leg strength is an essential building block of any fitness programme and goals. The new gym at the Swiss Club is well equipped for an effective leg workout. Let Jeriel Yeo, Personal Trainer at Active Fitness, show you how.
BACK SQUAT
The Back Squat is one of the most effective exercises for building leg strength. It is best performed on the half rack with safety bars for safe mounting and dismounting. Individuals with spinal pain/injuries should perform this exercise with caution.
Set the barbell on the rack at the height of your collarbone. Set the safety bars just below the barbell at the lowest point of your squat. Place your hands wider than shoulder width and go under the bar. Position the bar above your shoulder blades.
Dismount the barbell and take 1 to 2 small steps away from the rack. Adjust the width of your stance to shoulder width or wider. You may angle your feet not more than 30 degrees outward.
Lower your hips into a squat position. Continue to lower your hips until it is in line with your knees. Return to the standing position.
The Hack Squat is a machine that works the legs effectively and an alternative to the Back Squat. This machine provides the benefits of the Back Squat and it is ideal for individuals with lower back injuries.
Step into the Hack Squat and position the lower back to the seat. Place your feet at a comfortable height and width. Push yourself back with your legs to unlock the safety catch.
Lower your hips into a squat position. Your back should be against the seat at all times. Continue to lower yourself until your knees are bent 90 degrees.
Push with your legs from the bottom position until your legs are fully extended. To dismount, push and hold the yellow lever and lower yourself until you hear a ‘click’ before stepping off.
If you need any help at the gym, be it regarding technique or equipment or anything at all, our friendly trainers are on hand to assist you. Meanwhile, add the back squat and hack squat to your routine today!
SLEEP IS ESSENTIAL, AS IT GIVES THE MIND AND BODY A CHANCE TO REST AND RECOVER. YET MANY PEOPLE SUFFER FROM INSOMNIA. INSTEAD OF SLEEPING PILLS, WHICH CAN BE ADDICTIVE, TRY YOGA. IT’S EQUALLY ADDICTIVE – ONLY IN A HEALTHY WAY.
Insomnia is usually caused by excessive tension and anxiety, which stops the brain from switching off. When you go to bed, unfinished tasks and unexpressed tensions surface. Thoughts and emotions spin around in your mind and produce a constant internal stimulation that keeps you tense. Not surprisingly, sleep eludes you.
The good news is – yoga can help.
Incorporating yoga into your daily routine can improve your sleep quality, which in turn will improve your physical health and cognitive function. Several studies have shown that yoga is beneficial for improving quality of sleep.
Next time you are unable to sleep, try the following yogic techniques to calm your mind.
• Before going to bed, walk for 5 minutes around your room or house.
• Do a few arm stretches by breathing deeply into your chest, 10 times.
• When you get into bed, spend some time to recollect the thoughts of your day from the present moment to the beginning of the day, working backwards.
Join Yoga Library for this epic yoga event at Rishikesh, the Yoga Capital of the World. Package includes accommodation, all transfers, all meals, festival tickets and local sightseeing. Airfares are not included. Contact Yoga Library or scan the QR code to find out more.
• Think of the happiest moments in your life, from the past to the present.
• Finally, practise relaxation by consciously focusing on every part of your body, starting from your head and ending at your toes. Relax each and every part of the body by silently sending instructions.
If you are still awake, practise Deep Abdominal Breathing. Let go of all thoughts and anxieties. Stop worrying about being unable to fall asleep. Observe the movement of your belly. As you inhale, your belly will rise – and as you exhale, your belly will sink. Keep observing this rhythmic motion and you should soon fall asleep.
To launch your life-enhancing journey with yoga, join the yoga sessions at the Swiss Club. They are held on Wednesdays
at 7pm, on Fridays at 8am, and on Saturdays at 8.45am, and led by Ruchica Patni and Anand Goyal, Founders of Yoga Library Singapore and yogis of the world.
Celebrates its 25th anniversary since its commencement of operations
We are proud to have been associated with Singapore and our overseas clients and look forward to continuing to create added value for our clients with our specialized integrated entities offering the most diverse services whilst assuming responsibility for the environment for the benefit of our future.
We bring together people, materials and machinery at the right place and at the right time in order to realize complex construction projects on schedule, of the highest quality and at the best price. In short: We assume a part of the risk, thus relieving the burden from our clients.
TOO SKINNY… TOO SHORT… NOT STRONG ENOUGH… NOT ATHLETIC ENOUGH. THESE WERE SOME OF THE MANY CRITIQUES THE FOUR-TIME NBA CHAMPION, TWO-TIME MOST VALUABLE PLAYER, AND ALL-TIME LEADING 3-POINT SCORER STEPHEN CURRY HEARD GROWING UP.
At SOMA Basketball, we welcome all who are willing to pursue their passion for the game, along with anyone who wants to break down stereotypes or simply learn something new. We love the underrated, the overlooked, the last-picked, and those dropped from tryouts.
We’ll take everyone, from the late-blooming athletes to the natural stars, and help unlock their potential through hard work, focus and determination. The journey begins with ‘failing to succeed’. We teach the game the correct way by building the fundamentals while fostering teamwork and mutual respect for all. Lessons learned on the court are ‘Bigger than the Game’ and stay with us for a lifetime.
We are humbled by SOMA Basketball’s success and blessed by the support of our family, friends and partners. A big ‘Thank You’ to the Swiss Club for all the support over the years.
In the last six months of 2022 at the Swiss Club, we’ve completed two sessions of our Afterschool Basketball programme and two Holiday Basketball Camps. We will continue at the same venues for the next six months and welcome all – beginners and experienced players alike.
Remember, every star was once a beginner. Come and begin fulfilling your personal athletic potential with SOMA Basketball at the Swiss Club.
AFTERSCHOOL BASKETBALL
Mondays 5 to 6pm
Wednesdays 5 to 6pm
Fridays 4 to 6pm
HOLIDAY BASKETBALL CAMPS
Please check the Swiss Club e-newsletter for updates.
INTERESTED IN THE SOMA BASKETBALL PROGRAM?
M 8223 6971
W somasportssf@gmail.com
VIVO KIDS OFFERS A FUN-FILLED MULTI-SPORT PROGRAMME WITH ACTIVITIES THAT DEVELOP CHILDREN’S PHYSICAL, SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL SKILLS THROUGH PLAY.
Suitable for children aged 2 to 6 years old, you can expect lots of running, throwing, jumping and other fundamental movement skills incorporated into the games and activities during our sessions.
Our games are designed to build numeracy and literacy skills such as shape recognition, counting, and colour concepts. Kids are encouraged to work with their peers and enter into friendly competition, fostering a can-do attitude and developing social-emotional skills.
We introduce a different sport every month, with age-appropriate equipment. Kids can expect an hour of fun and games as they learn how to kick a soccer ball, tackle like a rugby player, hit a homerun and more. With six sports on rotation, there is always something new to explore!
Toddlers from 20 to 36 months can also join in the fun in our parent-accompanied
class. Here, they are exposed to a wide variety of fundamental movement skills like running, balancing, kicking and throwing, enhanced with music and loads of high fives.
Our coach-to-child ratio is low at 1:6. Our team of coaches have multi-sport backgrounds, and go all out to create a secure and loving environment where every Vivo Kid gets optimal attention and engagement. Games and drill progressions are tailored to the ability of each child, allowing them to progress at their own pace.
Kids aged 6 and above can also join our Vivo Kicks soccer classes. Here, they can hone their dribbling, passing, scoring and defending skills in a nurturing and fun environment, and put them to the test during a mini-match at the end of each session.
VIVO
Vivo Kinetics has launched a new music and movement programme for babies and toddlers aged 10 to 24 months old. Join us for 45 minutes of fun-filled activities such as dancing, singing, playing with toys, and sensory play – all based around a theme that changes monthly.
Camposaur is back – with new sports, new activities, and more fun! Open to kids aged 3 to 10 years old, there’s something for everyone in this action-packed camp featuring: Multi-sport, Cookery, Arts and Craft, Team-building Games, Robotics and Water Play.
INTERESTED IN JOINING OR LEARNING MORE ABOUT VIVO KIDS?
Please contact:
WhatsApp 8806 2534
E admin@vivokinetics.com
THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME FOR YOUR KIDS TO PICK UP SOME NEW SKILLS AND DISCOVER THE JOY OF DANCE – WITH CHAMELEO KIDZ AT THE SWISS CLUB.
BENEFITS OF DANCE
Dance can accelerate your child’s mental and physical development in a number of ways. It can build muscle strength and improve agility, flexibility, coordination and balance. And it can also build confidence, self-motivation and self-discipline, and hone social skills.
Most importantly, dance can provide a source of fun and joy, as well as an outlet for self-expression. It’s also a great break from the academic pressures of school.
JAZZ, HIP HOP AND BALLET
Chameleo Kidz is an established dance school in Singapore that provides provide Jazz, Hip Hop, and Ballet dance programmes for children aged 4 to 12 years old. Its highly qualified instructors are experienced in interacting with children and parents.
Founder Gerald Chia is delighted to now be conducting classes in the beautiful environment of the Swiss Club. He spoke about his school’s philosophy of having fun and celebrating accomplishments, from baby steps to giant leaps.
“Unlike other dance schools, Chameleo Kidz believes that children should enjoy dance in its purest form. Instead of exams, which I believe are unnecessarily stressful, we stage fun but challenging dance choreographies at least once a year,” he shared. These impressive productions are videotaped to show parents what their children have learnt, and foster children’s pride in their accomplishments.
Enrol your kids in Chameleo Kidz’ fun classes, now conveniently conducted at the Swiss Club, and give them the lifelong gift of dance.
SCHEDULE OF DANCE CLASSES
VENUE: Dance studio next to gym
HIP HOP
Every Friday 4pm – 5pm (4 – 6 years old)
5pm – 6pm (7 – 12 years old)
BALLET
Every Saturday 3pm – 4pm (3.5 – 5 years old)
4pm – 5pm (6 – 9 years old)
5pm – 6pm (10 – 12 years old)
JAZZ
Every Sunday
10am – 11am (4 – 6 years old) 11am – 12pm (7 – 12 years old)
INTERESTED IN ENROLLING YOUR CHILD IN DANCE CLASSES?
Please contact:
T 8833 2669
E info@chameleokidz.com
CONNECTING THE WORLD. PROTECTING ITS FUTURE.
AVAILABLE SINCE 31 OCTOBER 2022, THE NEW SWISS PASSPORT MEETS THE HIGHEST INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS FOR IDENTITY DOCUMENTS AND A UNIQUE DESIGN INSPIRED BY THE SWISS LANDSCAPE. IT ALSO INCLUSIVELY REFERENCES ITS EXPATRIATE COMMUNITY AND GLOBAL OUTLOOK, WITH PAGES DEDICATED TO THE SWISS WHO ARE LIVING ABROAD.
The latest passport series is Switzerland’s fifth passport design, and follows the last update in 2010. A dedicated page for each of Switzerland’s 26 cantons depicts distinctive landmarks for which each canton is known. The common design thread of the new passport is water, an element that shapes the Swiss landscape across all the cantons from alpine peaks to verdant valleys. The first page depicts Pizzo Rotondo, the highest mountain in the Gotthard massif. Significantly, it is the source of the major Swiss rivers that flow across territorial borders. Hence the massif unites the main design themes of water and mountains.
Besides showcasing Switzerland’s natural beauty, an additional page of the new passport is dedicated to Swiss citizens living abroad, also known as the ‘fifth Switzerland’. Finally, the last
page shows a picture of the world, often colloquially called Switzerland’s ‘27th canton’. The new passport captures the essence of Switzerland as a country that is both close to home and open to the world.
A dedicated page for each of Switzerland’s 26 cantons depicts distinctive landmarks for which each canton is known. The common design thread of the new passport is water, an element that shapes the Swiss landscape across all the cantons from alpine peaks to verdant valleys.
“Seeking to combine aesthetics with security and functionality, the new passport incorporates the latest technology for identity security. While some of these features are apparent to the naked eye, others are only visible under UV light.
Seeking to combine aesthetics with security and functionality, the new passport incorporates the latest technology for identity security. While some of these features are apparent to the naked eye, others are only visible under UV light. As in the previous version of the identity document, biometric data are recorded on a microchip embedded in the passport cover. The data can only be read with the help of a device that guarantees encrypted data transmission. Fingerprints are specially protected, with Switzerland allowing access only to countries with data protection equivalent to Switzerland.
What does the introduction of the new passport mean for Swiss passport holders?
All passports currently in circulation remain valid until their stated expiry date. Hence, Swiss citizens can keep using their old passports until they expire. The Swiss identity card is currently also being redesigned, which will be released by authorities in the first half of 2023. As usual, passport-holders can submit a combination application to renew both their passport and identity card. To apply for new documents, Swiss citizens are welcome to book an appointment at www.schweizerpass.ch.
SITUATED ON BEAUTIFUL GROUNDS ADJOINING THE SWISS CLUB PREMISES, THE SWISS SCHOOL IN SINGAPORE IS A LEARNING OASIS THAT WELCOMES CHILDREN FROM 2 TO 12 YEARS OLD.
LEARN AND PLAY AMID NATURE
At the family-oriented, intimate school, children are inspired to achieve their full potential as they learn and play amid lush tropical greenery. The highest academic standards are upheld, with a view to preparing the students for successful lives in a multicultural modern world. The Swiss School offers a holistic
education in French/English and German/ English. It is based on the Swiss curriculum and values, while embracing openness and our vibrant Asian setting.
If you are considering registering your child with SSiS for the new academic school year, please contact us for a personalised chat and school tour.
WE ARE DELIGHTED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WE HAVE BEEN AWARDED SILVER IN THE CATEGORY “BEST ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVE 2022” AT THE SINGAPORE EDUCATION AWARDS BY HONEYKIDS ASIA.
GREEN VALUES
Our journey towards a better use of sustainable and natural resources started with the introduction of the photovoltaic system in September 2014. Today, we are proud to say that we have been able to reduce our electricity consumption by up to an astounding 80 percent.
In accordance with last year’s school motto “Learning in the Green: Diversity and Friendship”, the school has focused on sustainability. Sustainability projects were undertaken by each class and presented to our parents and stakeholders at the annual school exhibition. Class gardens, a green learning
oasis project, and DYI projects such as homemade hand cream were among the fantastic ideas implemented.
A NEW SUSTAINABILITY COORDINATOR
SSiS has continued its journey towards sustainability this school year with the introduction of a school sustainability coordinator, whose main responsibilities are integrating various sustainability topics into all classes. With this year’s school motto “Grow, learn, change – let’s do it together!”, we are aiming to embark on further initiatives for the environment in addition to other worthwhile projects at our school.
A WORD OF EXPLANATION ON OUR MOTTO FOR THIS SCHOOL YEAR: GROW, LEARN, CHANGE –LET´S DO IT TOGETHER!
Each school year is accompanied by a school motto, which addresses valuable and relevant topics and is integrated into the daily school life of our students. This year´s motto relates beautifully to the objectives of the Swiss Curricula – to encourage our children to grow, learn, and change in positive ways.
Nowadays, learning is understood as an active, self-directed, reflective, situational and constructive process. We are here to guide your children on their own learning journeys.
As educators, we are firmly convinced that people develop and grow continuously. From a certain age, they embark on a journey of qualitative growth as they become increasingly complex, sophisticated, mature individuals. When we release our students into the world, we are confident that they will continue to learn from life.
Every step of development is learning, as skills and competencies are acquired along the way. Modern learning takes place in a communicative teacher-
learner relationship. Our school follows the Swiss curricula Lehrplan 21 in the German Stream and Plan d’Etudes Romand (PER) in the French Stream. At our school, learning is a true collaboration between classmates and their teachers.
When it comes to change and transformation, people can support or initiate change, but cannot sustainably prevent it. Change for us at SSiS means advancement, progress, moving on – and embracing life.
Learning is more sustainable when undertaken in a social situation, and of course learning includes the acquisition of important social skills. The most important message our students take away from this part of the school motto is that everyone can grow, learn and achieve almost any goal with teamwork.
We look forward to immersing our students in many creative projects aligned with and in support of our school motto. We are proud that our school is a place of learning and growth, for our staff and especially for our students.
This award is dedicated to our entire school community. We are very happy to be able to pass on these green values to our students.
#1.
RETURNING MEMBER ANDRE MISSO REJOINED THE SWISS CLUB ALONG WITH HIS WIFE VERONICA AND THEIR 13-YEAR-OLD SON MICAH IN SEPTEMBER 2022. HE ‘RE-MEMBERS’ THE CLUB ‘BEFORE’ AND ‘AFTER’ THE RENOVATIONS, SHARES FOND MEMORIES AND GIVES SOME HEARTFELT ADVICE.
WHY DID YOU LET YOUR SWISS CLUB MEMBERSHIP LAPSE IN AUGUST 2019?
It was only intended to be a short break. Then along came the pandemic and extended it.
#2. WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE IMPROVEMENTS AT THE SWISS CLUB?
The improvements are amazing! The work done to the Jungle Cove and pool area is gorgeous, and the improvements to Arbenz have created more opportunities for hosting events at the restaurant. The Pavilion, too, is well designed and now suitable for a wider array of events. The tile designs are beautiful, and the furniture in the Pavilion is conducive for social interaction and collaboration.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE SWISS CLUB?
The Club’s friendly and polite crew; the pool, gym and changing room; the high quality of the F&B; the natural surroundings; the regular social activities… There are just so many things to love at the Swiss Club!
#4. WHICH CLUB FACILITIES DO YOU USE THE MOST, AND WHEN?
First comes the gym, which I visit three or four times a week, followed by the pool.
#5. CAN YOU SHARE ONE OF YOUR FAVOURITE MOMENTS AT THE CLUB?
Sitting by the pool with an espresso martini –it’s the perfect way to relax after a good workout and swim.
#6.
WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE RESTAURANTS AND DISHES AT THE SWISS CLUB?
I love Arbenz and Pergola, and my favourite dish is ‘anything steak’!
Veronica loves dining at Arbenz, and her favourite dish is ‘everything!’
Micah loves the oyster promotions at Arbenz.
#7.
WHAT ARE SOME RECENT SWISS CLUB EVENTS THAT YOU’VE ATTENDED, AND WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THEM?
Oktoberfest – it’s the crème de la crème of all events, and a crazy must-attend partyfest!
The Retro Party was well organised, the music was great and the ambience was enjoyable.
The Quiz Nights are cosy yet exciting!
#8.
HOW WAS YOUR RECENT FAMILY GATHERING AT THE SWISS CLUB?
The setup for our Misso family gathering on 17 December was lovely, and well supported by the crew.
#9.
HOW WAS YOUR RECENT BUSINESS EVENT AT THE SWISS CLUB?
The F&B at our 23 November event was amazing. The events team were detailed in their planning, and all the guests were happy and full of praise for the Club.
#10.
DO YOU HAVE SOME PARTING ADVICE FOR YOUR FELLOW MEMBERS?
The Swiss Club truly lives up to its tagline “Home for All Nationalities”. Connect with more Members at the Club and get to know more people in Singapore!
IDA ISNIN, THE CLUB’S ASSISTANT MANAGER IN BANQUET SALES SINCE MARCH LAST YEAR, LOVES BEING PART OF A SMALL, TIGHT TEAM WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME. (NOW YOU KNOW HERS, SAY HI NEXT TIME YOU SEE HER!)
FROM CLUB TO CLUB
Before joining the Swiss Club, Ida worked at the Hollandse Club, where her responsibilities were similar to her current ones – booking private, corporate and social events, and weddings.
Besides her friendly and supportive colleagues, Ida appreciates the beautiful environment of the Swiss Club, from its lush greenery to its thoughtfully renovated heritage Clubhouse. A culturally curious born-and-bred Singaporean, she also greatly enjoys meeting and getting to know Members of different nationalities.
Being part of one of our biggest events, Oktoberfest, was a definite highlight. While it was a lot of hard work, and it physically drained most of us, the end-product was pure ecstasy!
Ida IsninAWESOME OKTOBERFEST
When asked to cite a highlight of her working life at the Club, Ida singled out our signature event, Oktoberfest.
“Being part of one of our biggest events, Oktoberfest, was a definite highlight. While it was a lot of hard work, and it physically drained most of us, the end-product was pure ecstasy!” enthused Ida. “It was teamwork at its peak.”
After hours, Ida likes to spend quality time with her husband Az, an engineer. She also loves to sing, watch Netflix (who doesn’t!), and sew tote bags and zippered pouches.
We asked Ida to share her dining recommendations with members. Her enthusiastic response: “The Ribeye Steak at Pergola), our Signature Premium Aglio Olio at Arbenz and the delicious Chocolate Delice dessert are the best!”
In parting, Ida praised the new function rooms at the Pavilion area, which are ideal for corporate and social events and weddings.
“Remember, as a Swiss Club Member, you get to enjoy Members’ prices when you book an event with us!” shared Ida. “I look forward to seeing more of you holding and hosting your parties and events with us in 2023!”
Thanks for chatting, Ida. Members – look for Ida when next you have a party to plan!
TENNIS
SOCIAL (MEN’S/LADIES’)
Sat 3pm – 6pm (Courts 2, 3 and 4)
LADIES’ TEAM TRAINING
Courts 4 and 5
Mon 9am – 11am (WITS Team)
Tue 10am – 12pm (WITS Team)
Fri 8am – 9.30am (STA Team) 10am – 12pm (Ladies’ Group Training)
For times and dates, please see the 40XV display at the tennis courts.
APERO TENNIS MIXED SOCIAL
Thu 7pm – 8.30pm
MIXED CARDIO TRAINING
Tue & Thu 10am – 11.30am
Please contact Juan Ortiz at E swissclub@forty-fifteen.com or T 6591 9438
PADEL
MEMBERS SOCIAL PADEL
Saturdays – 2pm to 5pm (first come, first serve basis)
MAHJONG
Wed 7.30pm – 10.30pm (Board Room One)
Please contact Jill Boschung at E jillbos@yahoo.com or T 9022 4605
GOLF
GERMAN-SWISS GOLF CLUB
Please contact Adrian Luedi at E germanswissgolfclub@gmail.com or T 9081 8506
FOOTBALL
SOCIAL FOOTBALL
Mon 8pm – 10pm (Sports Field)
Please email Michael Becker at michaelbecker2003@gmail.com to join our mailing list. An email is sent to Swiss Club Members every Friday to get players registered for football on Monday.
GERMAN-SWISS ALL STARS COSMO LEAGUE
Tue 7pm – 9pm (Sports Field)
CASUAL KICK
Tue 9pm – 10.30pm (Sports Field)
Please contact Urs Brutsch at E Urs.Brutsch@hpwm.sg (German All Stars)
SWIMMING ADULTS’ TRAINING
Tue 7.15pm Wed 2pm
Please contact aquaDucks at E swiss@aquaducks.com.sg or David at david@aquaducks.com.sg T 8260 9032 (weather update only)
SOCIAL TREKKING
Time and dates to be advised.
Please contact Samir or Sven at T 8189 1234 (Samir) 9806 8513 (Sven)
YOGA
HATHA FLOW YOGA
Wed 7pm – 8pm Fri 8am – 9am
HATHA YOGA
Sat 8.45am – 9.45am
Please contact Ruchica (Yoga Library Pte Ltd) at E rp @yogalibrary.com.sg or T 9711 5599 for more details
PROFESSIONAL FITNESS SERVICES
AQUA BIKING
Sat 9am – 9.50am
(Note: Pre-register to secure a bike for class)
INDOOR CYCLING
Sat 11am – 11.45am (Aerobics Studio)
(Note: Pre-register to secure a bike for class)
BOOT CAMP
Mon 6pm – 6.45pm
Thu 8.30am – 9.15am (Sports Field/Outdoor Multi-Court)
PILATES
Wed 8am – 9am (Outdoor area near Sports Hall)
Sat 10am – 11am (Edelweiss Room)
STRONG BY ZUMBA
Mon 8.30am – 9.30am (Aerobics Studio)
SPINNING
Thu 7pm – 8pm (Aerobics Studio) Sat 11am – 12pm (Aerobics Studio)
TRX SUSPENSION TRAINING
Fri 8.30am – 9.30am (Outdoor Fitness Corner)
Please contact Jason Stanley 24 hours before class at E getactive@activefitness.com.sg or T 9026 3452
PERSONAL TRAINING
Please contact Timothy Felix at E getactive@activefitness.com.sg or T 9191 7475
DANCE FOR KIDS
HIP HOP
4 – 6 years old, Fridays, 4pm – 5pm 7 – 12 years old, Fridays, 5pm – 6pm
JAZZ
4 – 6 years old, Sundays, 10pm – 11am 7 – 12 years old, Sundays, 11am – 12pm
Please contact Chameleo Kidz Academy at E info@chameleokidz.com
FOOTBALL TRAINING FOR KIDS COSMO UNITED FOOTBALL ACADEMY
Training on Saturday 10.30am – 12pm (Indoor Sports Hall)
Open to all players born between 1 Jan 2012 and 31 Dec 2015
Open to Swiss Club Members and Non-Members.
Please contact Olliver Marx at E info@cufa.com.sg W www.cufa.com.sg
T 9821 3869
JUNIOR TENNIS PROGRAMME
Mon – Fri 4pm – 7.30pm Sat 8.30am – 12pm
• Parent/child and tiny tots programme
• Junior introductory/ development programme
• Junior intermediate/advanced programme
For times and dates, please see the 40XV display at the tennis courts.
Please contact Juan Ortiz at E swissclub@forty-fifteen.com or T 6591 9438
BASKETBALL
SOMA SPORTS SINGAPORE
Age Groups: 3-5, 6-12, 13-18 years old
Fri 4.45pm – 5.45pm
SWIMMING BABIES' AND TODDLERS' LESSONS (6-36 MONTHS)
Tue – Fri 3pm – 5pm Sat 8.30am – 12pm
PRESCHOOL SWIMMING LESSONS (3-4 YEARS OLD)
Tue – Fri 3pm – 5pm Sat 8.30am – 12pm
LEARN TO SWIM (5-8 YEARS OLD)
Tue – Fri 3pm – 5pm Sat 8.30am – 12pm
STROKE AND DEVELOPMENT (CD 1-4)
Tue – Fri 5pm, 6pm Sat 8.30am, 9.40am, 2pm, 4.45pm
Please contact aquaDucks at E swiss@aquaducks.com.sg or David at david@aquaducks.com.sg T 8260 9032 (weather update only)
KARATE KYOKUSHIN
Thu 5pm – 6pm 4 years and above
Parents are welcome to join class (Aerobics Studio)
Please contact the instructor, Sensei Lai at E ekl@caa.columbia.edu or T 9185 0900
PERSONAL TRAINING
Please contact Timothy Felix at E getactive@activefitness.com.sg or T 9191 7475
TAEKWONDO LESSONS
Sat 9.50am – 11.00am
Please contact Master Richard at E coach.tkd.richard@gmail.com
GOT A SUGGESTION?
If you would like to suggest a new activity, please contact Elvis Tan, Sports & Recreation Manager, at:
elvis.tan@swissclub.org.sg T 6591 9438
