REGISTERED BY AUSTRALIA POST - PUBLICATION No. VBH 6369
DECEMBER 2009
Triple anniversary gala dinner, a night to remember! contributed much to the success of the evening. Their repertoire did not fail to have an affect on the guests as they hummed, sang and moved along happily to many familiar tunes.
THE
RO U CLU
T
ABOU D N B
Barbara Kündig, the President of the Swiss Club, started off the proceedings immediately followed by a short address by Mr Meli. Then Roland M.L.W. Grasset’s visit Isler announced a rather unexpected visitor - the first President of the Swiss Guests that attended the gala dinner Club, Monsieur Marc held at the club on Saturday, 14 “We had a fantastic Louis William Grasset! November to commemorate the night, one of the best. In walked a rather 110th anniversary of the Swiss The organisation bewildered looking man, Club of Victoria, together with committee deserves a dressed in 19th century the 60th anniversary of the Folk medal. It was so much attire. What followed was Dance Group Alpenrose and fun to be there. Thank a humorous theatrical the 130th anniversary of the you for giving us a dialogue between Roland Swiss Society of Victoria would fabulous night, good and M.L.W., who was agree - the organising team food, good company sent back to earth to comprising of Rita Schwärzler, and lots of fun!!!!!” talk about himself and Barbara Kündig and Roland the Swiss Club and what Sylvia Hochuli Isler did a great job. happened after the first The event was totally booked attempt failed in 1904. The sketch was out and many, who left it too late to written by Roland and was designed to book, unfortunately missed out on a provide a historical reflection in a novel wonderful night of entertainment, good and fun way. M.L.W. was played by none food, a rather unexpected visit and the other than Hannes Black who people are chance to secure some great bargains at normally used to seeing serving dinner the silent auction. Guests of honour were newly arrived Consul General Mr Markus Meli and his charming wife Christa who visited the club for the first time. Tables were elegantly dressed befitting a gala event with a white orchid taking centrepiece on every table. These beautiful flowers became part of the silent auction at the end of the evening and were eagerly snapped up by guests. Wonderful musical entertainment provided by Dieter and Julia Bajzek
and drinks behind the bar of the club restaurant. The performance was wildly applauded and judging by the laughter the audience thoroughly loved it. Hannes immersed himself in the role and his theatrical experience was clearly a big contributor to the success of the sketch.
Rita Schwärzler talking about our ‘Mafia’
After M.L.W. went back to heaven, Barbara, on behalf of the Swiss Club and all assembled guests, congratulated the members of the Folk Dance Group Alpenrose and their leader Sylvia Hochuli on their 60th anniversary. Sylvia addressed the guests and bestowed a special honour upon Gwen Eckhardt, who is a founding member of the group, by presenting her with a specially inscribed plate. Then addresses by former presidents Oscar Nicolet (1961-1963), Franz Doos (1969) and Peter Meury (1970-1973 & 1976) were read, providing an interesting account of what was important in the life of the club in the 60s and 70s. ‘Kriminaltango’ by Hazy Osterwald was the prelude of Rita Schwärzler’s talk about the ‘Swiss Club Mafia’. Rita, wearing hat and dark glasses, presented it in her usual charm and wit that everyone loves. For the unknowing reader, it should be said that there is,
Dieter and Julia Bajzek
Continued on page 5
89 Flinders Lane • Melbourne 3000 • Victoria • Australia • w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
IS SW S
SWISS CLUB OF VICTORIA Founded in 1899
89 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Vic 3000 T: (03) 9650 1196, F: (03) 9650 3104 E: swissclubvic@swiss.org.au W: www.swiss.org.au/swissclubvic Club Opening Hours Lunch - Monday to Friday from 12noon Dinner - Wednesday, Thursday & Friday from 6pm. Bookings T: (03) 9650 1196 Swiss Club Catering For Weddings, Corporate, Seminars, Parties, Private Functions contact Chef & Catering Manager Roger Moullet T: (03) 9650 1196, F: (03) 9650 3104 M: 0409 040 249 E: swissclub@hotmail.com
COMMITTEE Barbara Kündig President T/F (H): (03) 9813 8843 M: 0402 018 363 E: barbara@swiss.org.au Rolf Huber Immediate Past President T/F (H): (03) 9807 0282 M (B): 0425 805 854 E: rhuber@swiss.org.au Gerda Probst Secretary M: 0439 936 313 E: gerda@swiss.org.au Urs Derrick Wildi Treasurer T/F (H): (03) 9824 7930 M: 0403 040 930 E: uwildi@swiss.org.au Sigrid de Castella Membership Relations M: 0416 088 000 E: sigrid@swiss.org.au Antony Anderson Building Management M: 0416 069 666 E: antony@swiss.org.au Patrick Rychner Corporate Communications/ Web Administrator M: 0404 657 886 E: paddy@swiss.org.au Damian Schaller Event Manager M: 0410 461 364 E: damianschaller@swiss.org.au w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
SWISS CLUB SUB-GROUPS Swiss Folk Dance Group Alpenrose President: Sylvia Hochuli T: (03) 9531 6575 E: hochuli@tpg.com.au Swiss Companion Singers Convenor: Heidy Giger T: (03) 9889 9321 E: adelheid1@bigpond.com Ladies Luncheons Convenor: Heidy Giger For bookings T: (03) 9650 1196 For information: T: (03) 9889 9321 E: adelheid1@bigpond.com Saturday Morning Swiss School Convenor: Andrea Pinch T: (03) 5331 6762 E: pinch@hotkey.net.au W: www.swiss.org.au/scvschool Swiss Playgroup Ingrid Preston T: (03) 9772 0516 Chantal Imbach T: (03) 8407 3766 W: www.swiss.org.au/playgroup The Young Swiss Group Convenor: Amy Bohren M: 0410 037 095 E: abohren@swiss.org.au Swiss Festival Chairman: Rolf Huber T/F (H): (03) 9807 0282 M (B): 0425 805 854 E: rhuber@swiss.org.au
Pro Ticino President: Claude Rossi 5 Falls Road, Hoddles Creek Vic 3139 T: (03) 5967 4542 E: marclas@dcsi.net.au Swiss Yodel Choir Matterhorn President: Marco Unternährer 3 Bluegum Court, Upwey Vic 3158 T: (03) 9388 8777, (03) 9752 6996 (H) W: www.swiss.org.au/matterhorn Swiss-Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SACCI) General Manager: Marcel Svatos Level 5, 23-25 O’Connell Street Sydney NSW 2000 T: (02) 9223 7222, F: (02) 9223 7211 E: support@sacci.com.au W: www.sacci.com.au Swiss-Australian Academic Network (SAAN) E: info@sanm.id.au W: www.saan.id.au Honorary Consul of Switzerland (Victoria): Erika Kimpton 697 Toorak Road, Kooyong Vic 3144 T: (03) 9824 7527, M: 0413 042 728 E: erikakimpton@optusnet.com.au Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (Auslandschweizer-Organisation) Council Delegate: Roland Isler Contact details: see below under Editor W: www.aso.ch W: www.swiss.org.au/csa
OTHER SWISS ORGANISATIONS Swiss Society of Victoria (Benevolent Society) President: Primo Calabresi T: (03) 9857 7427 W: www.swiss.org.au/swissclubvic Trachtengruppe Schwyzergruess Australian/Swiss Cultural Society President: Sylvia Hochuli T: (03) 9531 6575 E: hochuli@tpg.com.au Groupe Romand du Victoria President: Marianne Puccinelli 7 Eric Court, Wheelers Hill Vic 3150 T: (03) 9561 9595 W: www.swiss.org.au/chfrvic
Impressum News and Views published by the Swiss Club of Victoria. ‘Edelweiss’ appears quarterly in March, June, September and December. Circulation 500. For all enquiries contact: Roland Isler, Editor T/F: (03) 9558 3877 (H) T: (03) 9524 6335 (B) M: 0412 935 565 E: risler@swiss.org.au 67 St Georges Crescent Heatherton Vic 3202
Unless otherwise stated, postal address for all is: 89 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Vic 3000
3
President’s Message Dear members and friends of the Swiss Club, As you hold the last edition of the ‘Edelweiss’ for 2009 in your hands, the Merry Christmas season has started and I hope you will be able to enjoy the lead up to Christmas and join us at some of our planned end of year events. The big news is the remodeling of our 2nd floor, so that it may become a welcoming and friendly meeting place for our sub-groups, members and anyone looking for a comfortable, convenient function space in the heart of the city. At the recent Half-Yearly General Meeting, the members have given the committee the go ahead to do the renovation and the preparations have already started. We aim to be finished by March for an official opening in May. We thank the members for giving us this mandate and all the sub-groups for being so co-operative and understanding in vacating the floor. Obviously as we won’t have the 2nd floor available over the next several months, we will not be able to hold our regular events such as movie nights, billiard competition and ladies luncheons. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused. If you have any queries or want to know more, please feel free to ask. The Swiss Club celebrated its 110th anniversary with a bash on 14 November. It was great to see the club full of members and guests having a good time. The restaurant looked quite festive and elegant. Thank you to Roger and his team for a delicious dinner, to Rita Schwärzler and Roland Isler for organising the
event and ‘merci vielmal’ to all the individuals who contributed to the evening. Our special thanks to all the Swiss businesses who donated goods towards our Silent Auction. We appreciate it and thank you for your generosity and support. All proceeds will go towards our 2/F refurbishment. It is the end of the year, and in the name of the committee I would like to express our gratitude to all who were involved in the Swiss Club during 2009; the heads of our sub-groups, the members, Roger and his staff, all who organised functions and events for us, and all the companies and individuals who have supported us with donations. You all know what you did and we thank you very much for making the Swiss Club a great social club and an enjoyable meeting place for all. In addition, I like to express my appreciation to the committee for all their hard work and dedication. The committee wishes you and your loved ones a relaxing and peaceful Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. Enjoy the summertime, keep healthy and we look forward to seeing you at the club. Barbara Kündig, President
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all members! From the Committee
Congratulations A number of our longstanding members were celebrating their birthdays. Our best wishes go to Betty Almond, Beatrice Delacretaz, Margrit Gasinski-Aepli and Sepp Schmidig on their special 80th. We congratulate them and wish them good health, happiness and hopefully many more hours with us at the Swiss Club.
Get well Primo Calabresi is seriously ill in hospital. We think of you Primo and send our best wishes. We’d also like to offer our love and support to Patricia during these hard times. Fritz Hochuli has not been well. We miss you at the club and wish you a speedy recovery. Fred Staehli has been in hospital for the past few weeks and is moving into a nursing home in Kilmore. Our thoughts and best wishes are with Fred and Margaret at this difficult time.
4
Welcome to our new members We welcome Elisabeth Knecht, John Candido, Corinne Moesch, Simone and Patrick Albert, Beryl Ita and James Sinclair and Angela and Fritz Voser. We are looking forward to meeting you at one of our forthcoming functions. Dear members, if your partner, your friends or fellow members have a reason to celebrate, are unwell or have left for a better place, please let us know so that others know too. Please contact Sigrid de Castella (Committee) or the Editor. Swiss Club of Victoria
From page 1
of course, nothing sinister about our ‘Mafia’. It was a name, a term of endearment almost, describing a group of men, mostly former presidents, that were the kingmakers holding the strings and without their approval nothing much happened. Following this, two much loved club personalities – and ‘Mafia godfathers’ – who were unable to be present due to ill health, were honoured with a special movie presentation put together expertly by Damian Schaller. These were former presidents Joe Schibli (1977-1978 & 1985-1988) and Primo Calabresi (1964-1966 & 1989-1992). The presentation highlighted events that were mile stones in the life of the club – Joe being very much involved in the Oktoberfest and World Expo 88 in Brisbane – and Primo being Chairman of CH700, the organising committee that oversaw the year-long festivities commemorating the 700th anniversary of Switzerland. The two men were cheered and applauded for their great contribution. Franz Schnellmann (1995-1999) was the next former president giving an account of his time in office. This was interacted by Rita explaining the ‘struggle’ to have a ladies toilet installed on the restaurant level (prior to this, ladies had to go upstairs to the 2nd floor!). They continued talking about the ‘Oktoberfest army of helpers’ and our Chef Roger Moullet, their incredible dedication and great contributions made. In the absence of its President, Primo Calabresi, the Swiss Society of Victoria was represented by Walter Purtschert who spoke of the society’s long history of benevolent work and involvement with the Swiss community. The society received w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
three cheers on its 130th birthday. Walter then continued talking about his long involvement with the Swiss Club, particularly of his time as President (2001-2002). Rita took centre stage again talking about being the first female President (2003-2004) and about the ‘Bob the Builder’ team that oversaw the renovation of the club restaurant. She then symbolically passed on the ‘Bob the Builder’ hard hat to the “I would like to next, and current, female President congratulate you Barbara, who is now managing the and thank you for renovation of the 2nd floor. organising such a Next followed Roland’s account of his presidency (2005-2007), which was not without its challenges particularly because of the trouble with two consecutive tenants of the ground floor. As the most satisfying highlight he mentioned his involvement with the history book project and overseeing its launch. The last speaker delivering his address was Immediate Past President and current committee member, Rolf Huber.
fantastic event. The amount of work in staging an event like this is not always truly understood and appreciated by people, but you certainly did yourselves proud. Thanks again for an outstanding effort.” Chris Thalmann
The conclusion of the silent auction marked the finale of a wonderful evening. The auction resulted in nearly $2,400, which will go towards the 2nd floor renovation. This fantastic outcome could not have been achieved without the wonderful generosity of the many sponsors that donated an array of great prizes and the enthusiasm of guests to take part in the silent auction - to all of you our sincerest thanks! The organising committee also wishes to thank Hannes Black and Damian Schaller for their great assistance and involvement and to Roger Moullet and his team for the gourmet delight and spotless service that ensured the success of this evening! It was great to see so many happy faces and everyone having a great time. The anniversary of our club, the Dance group Alpenrose and the Swiss Society were celebrated in style, going down memory lane but also looking ahead to the future.
The Swiss Club of Victoria greatly appreciates the generous support of the following Silent Auction sponsors
Walma’s Continental Butcher & Smallgoods Bayswater THE SWISS CLUB RESTAURANT Roger Moullet
5
World premiere screening of the movie documentary “The Swiss Club of Victoria” Wednesday, 14 October Around sixty people meet at the club to be part of the historymaking world premiere screening of the movie documentary “The Swiss Club of Victoria”. A year in the making and after seeing a trailer at last year’s AGM, people were eager to see the finished product. It certainly was worth the wait! This is a very professionally made movie from a technical point of view, fit to be broadcasted on TV. But what strikes most, is that this is a very true and very human snapshot of what our club is today.
Documentary: “The Swiss Club of Victoria”
DVD Order Form
Number of DVDs required _____ DVDs at $20 each (incl. GST) ... $_____________ Postage & Handling ($5 for 1 DVD, $8 for 2 or more) ......... $_____________ Total Payment ..................................... $_____________ Please send cheque/money order with this form to: Roman Meyer, 4 / 32 Vale Street, St Kilda Vic 3182 To pay by bank transfer (you will still need to post this form) BSB 083333 Account no. 753993254 Please include your name in the bank transfer.
It talks about the many different activities and sub-groups. It talks about the history of the past century of how this club became what it is today. It talks about individual people and their experiences in leaving Switzerland and settling here in Australia and how the club became a part of their life. It’s not played by actors but by real people that we know. We are very fortunate that director Roman Meyer has chosen our Swiss Club as subject of a documentary that he produced as part of a university project. Watching it makes you feel that you are a part of it and proud to belong to this club. This movie is very highly recommended, an absolute must for every club member! To order, please use the coupon provided.
The DVD will be posted after payment has cleared. Mailing Address (please write your details here) Name: Address:
Phone: Email: Signature:
6
For all your first class selected meat, Swiss smallgoods and delicatessen Sepp & Marlies Krummenacher 634 North Road, Ormond, Tel: 9578 5049 Swiss Club of Victoria
Changes to the Committee At the Half-Yearly General Meeting held on 16 September, Antony Anderson was confirmed as new committee member. Antony is taking over the Building Management portfolio from Oliver Altermatt who has retired. The committee and members of the Swiss Club express their sincere thanks to Oliver for his outstanding contribution and welcome Antony to the team!
Meet the Committee:
Antony Anderson Building Management
Although not originally Swiss I am married to Sigrid de Castella who has a rich Swiss heritage. Her father is Swiss and her great grandfather, Charles Hubert came out to Australia in the 1860’s with his brother Paul to establish St.Hubert’s and Yering Station in the Yarra Valley, now prominent Yarra valley wineries. I have helped her explore her Swiss heritage which dates back to the 1100’s to Gruyère, Neuchâtel and Fribourg. Over the last 2 years we have journeyed to Switzerland twice spending time with family and friends, as well as the Fribourg archives researching more of her family history. I joined the Swiss Club so I could better understand the Swiss community and Sigrid’s link to it and the Swiss lifestyle and way of life has become very important to us. The Swiss can be a little quirky at first but once you get to know them they are genuine and welcoming people. I have an IT Consulting Practice in Melbourne and also do property investing and development. I have used this knowledge and experience to drive the planning of the 2nd Floor Redevelopment and now that it has been approved, I will be project managing it to a successful completion.
Newsletter Deadlines 2010 March Issue: Covering March/April/May Editorial Deadline: Monday, 25 January Packing: Wednesday, 10 February June Issue: Covering June/July/August Editorial Deadline: Monday, 3 May Packing: Wednesday, 19 May September Issue: Covering Sept/Oct/ Nov Editorial Deadline: Monday, 9 August Packing: Wednesday, 25 August December Issue: Covering Dec 09/Jan/Feb 2010 Editorial Deadline: Monday, 1 November Packing: Wednesday, 17 November
On 22 November we once again performed together with the Dance Group Alpenrose at Tabulam (Templer) and Martin Luther Nursing Homes. As the end of the year is fast approaching it is always nice to bring a little festivity to the residents there. We also participated at the Swiss Festival again this year and it was as always an enjoyable day. In April we had our practise at the Schwärzler’s residence. Thank you very much Rita and Herbert for your wonderful hospitality. In October we performed at the Swiss-Italian Festa in Hepburn Springs for the very first time. It was very special for us to perform together with all the other Swiss Groups. We were very honoured to be asked to sing in the Church as well. Not forgetting the social part with all the other Swiss Groups. We enjoyed all that tremendously! We will be singing with the children on 5 December at the Seniors Christmas.
My new role on the committee will be to manage the Swiss Club building and all of the maintenance associated with keeping it running smoothly. I take over the role from Oliver Altermatt and would like to thank him for the help he has given me in the transition.
Due to other commitments we lost a few members this year. Our practise sessions are every second and third Thursday of the month starting 11 February, 2010. We would love to see new faces. If you like to sing, come along and join us.
My interests include aviation (I have a light plane licence), computers, wine and politics. I look forward to trying to understand the Swiss political system and one day maybe participating in it as a Swiss citizen.
On behalf of the Companion Singers I wish you all a joyful and peaceful Festive Season.
I am very pleased to be elected a new committee member and I look forward to meeting all of the Swiss Club members over coming months and years.
w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
Heidy Giger
Want a taste of Switzerland? Visit the Swiss Club Restaurant
7
CHRISTMAS SPECIALS: Christmas Stollen & Gâteaux, Gingerbread Santas & Hauses, Fruit Cakes, Chocolate Christmas Trees, Traditional Christmas Bisquits: Brunsli, Mailänderli, Zimtsterne, Chräbeli, Biberli
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our customers Open Tuesday to Sunday 232 Blackburn Road, Syndal 3150 ☎ 9802 7265
8
Swiss Club of Victoria
Parking Possibilities This is to provide members on overview on parking opportunities when visiting the Swiss Club. Please note that prices are valid as at November 09. Swiss Club of Victoria Parking opportunities near andLane around the Swiss Club 89 Flinders This is to provide members on overview on parking opportunities when visiting the Swiss Club. Please note that prices are valid as Tickets are available atrequest. the bar upon request at November 09. Discount Discount Tickets are available from Rogerfrom at theRoger bar upon Swiss Club of Victoria, 89 Flinders Lane
Wilson Parking (Grand Hyatt Hotel)
Secure Parking 11 Exhibition Street
0 – ½ hrs
$ 3.00
0 – ½ hrs
½ - 1 hrs
$ 16.00
1 – 2 hrs
$ 36.00
2 + hrs
$ 47.00
Evenings
$ 10.00
Weekend
$ 12.00
Discount tickets:
$ 3.00
½ - 1 hrs
$ 15.00
1 – 2 hrs
$ 32.00
2 – 3 hrs
$ 45.00
3 – 4 hrs
$ 47.00
Evenings
$ 10.00
Weekend
$ 10.00
No Discount tickets
$ 12.00 weekdays only
Secure Parking Exit 114 Flinders St. 0 – ½ hrs
$ 3.00
½ - 1 hrs
$ 15.00
1 – 2 hrs
$ 33.00
2 + hrs
$ 47.00
Evenings
$ 10.00
Weekend
$ 10.00
Discount tickets: $ 6.00 evening weekdays only
Car e Park Malthouse Lane 0 – ½ hrs
$ 3.00
½ - 1 hrs
$ 7.00
1 – 2 hrs
$ 12.00
2 – 3 hrs
$ 16.00
3 – 4 hrs
$ 20.00
Evenings
$ 6.00
Weekend
$ 6.00
No Discount tickets
$ 15.00 weekdays only
w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
9
Shared Language, Shared Identities, Shared Stories A Qualitative Study of Life Stories by Immigrants from German-speaking Switzerland in Australia by Doris Schüpbach Publisher: Peter Lang ISBN: 978-3-631-57947-3 Published: 2008 Binding: Paperback, 330 pages Price: CHF 82.00 This book is not what one would call a ‘coffee table’ book but a research study for people that are seriously interested in migration and language. It explores how 15 immigrants from German-speaking Switzerland in Australia make sense of their migratory experience, of building a new life in a different language. It does so by examining their written and oral life stories. The analysis takes two complementary perspectives: Firstly, the construction of language identities is studied through the language practices and attitudes discussed and displayed by the participants. Secondly, the ways in which they create coherence in their life stories focuses on autobiographical identities where language is a medium of sense-making across their life course. The combined perspectives highlight the diversity among the participants and the complexities of language and identity construction in the context of migration. The Author: Doris Schüpbach is a research fellow at the Research Unit for Multilingualism and Cross-Cultural Communication of the University of Melbourne and a lecturer in the German program at Monash University (Australia). Originally from Switzerland, she moved to Australia in 1998 where she completed an M.A. and a Ph.D. Visit the publisher’s website http://www.peterlang.de to order online.
10
Cinnamon Stars (Zimtsterne) baked with icing Christmas cookies! When mum baked them, the whole house was filled with an irresistible aroma. My sister and I knew Christmas is not far away. I can still smell it, evoking memories of my childhood. In the December 07 issue of the ‘Edelweiss’ I brought to you a recipe for ‘Brunsli’, almond-laden dark chocolate mouthfuls of bliss, and today follows another favourite. Cinnamon Stars are one of the most popular Swiss Christmas cookies. Whisk the egg whites with the salt until stiff. Add the icing sugar and mix well. Put aside 100ml (½ cup) of this mixture of egg whites, salt and icing sugar for icing later. To the rest of the mixture add all the other ingredients of cinnamon, Kirsch and the ground almonds. Mix well together to form a dough. Roll out the dough either between two sheets of a clear plastic storage bag that has been cut open or on a thin layer of sugar to 7mm thickness. Cut out with star-shaped cutter and put them on a baking sheet lined with non-stick baking paper. Ice the cookies with the mixture put aside earlier using a spatula and use a toothpick to spread the icing into the corners. Leave to dry at room temperature for 5-6 hours or overnight. Heat the oven to 250˚ and bake for 3-5 minutes on the middle shelf. Makes about 50 cookies, depending on size 3 egg whites a pinch of salt 250g (2 cups) icing sugar 1½ tbsp ground cinnamon ½ tbsp Kirsch (or lemon juice) 350g (4 cups) ground almonds Merry Christmas!
Facts about Switzerland Albert Einstein was working as a clerk in a Swiss Patent Office when he proved his ‘Theory of Relativity’. The Swiss flag and the Vatican flag are the only two square banners in a sea of rectangle-shaped flags. Switzerland has more than 1,500 lakes, and it is said that you are never more than 15km from a lake anywhere in the country. Switzerland’s diverse landscape ranges from 196m above sea level in Ascona (lowest) to 4634m above sea level - Dufour Peak (highest). These locations are just 70km apart.
Login and get the latest info: www.swiss.org.au/swissclubvic
Swiss Club of Victoria
Test Swiss Knowledge Testyour your Swiss Knowledge 1 2
3
4
4th Jass Night Results – Swiss Club, 5 Sept Singles
1. Trudi Wellauer ...........................................2851 2. Hans Keller ................................................2800 3. Ossie Haering ............................................2723
Teams
8
1. Doris Conrad & Hans Keller .......................5475 2. Trudi & Bruno Wellauer .............................5307 3. Sylvia & Fritz Hochuli ................................5233
9
Swiss Club Jass König & Champion Team 09 ERNIE HUGLI TROPHY
5 6
7
© G & M Probst
2. 4.
6. 8. 9.
1. 3. 5. 7.
König 1. Sylvia Hochuli ...........................................8365 2. Martin Weber ............................................8317 Across 3. Hans Keller ................................................8288 Who is visiting our children at Fawkner Park on Sunday, 13 December? (Swiss German word). Across Team 1. Doris Conrad & Hans Keller .....................16153 What was the first Swiss that probably deserved the 2. Martha & Alois Schnieder .......................15732 name of scientist and introduced new ideas into medicine 3. Brigitte & Dolf Bohren.............................15352 2. Who is visiting our children at Fawkner Park on Sunday, 13 December? (Swiss German word) (1493-1541)? 4. What was the first Swiss that probably deserved the name of scientist and introduced new ideas into (1493-1541)? Whatmedicine is currently happening on the Swiss Club 2nd Floor? Melbourne Jass König & Champion Team 09 6. What is currently happening on the Swiss Club Second Floor? Name of a picturesque castle on the shores of of lake Geneva 8. Name of a picturesque castle on the shores lake Geneva near Montreux? GÜNTER BRITSCHGI TROPHY 9. Montreux? What is a form of 'singing' typical in the Swiss Folk music called? near Combined Swiss Club & Matterhorn What is a form of ‘singing’ typical in the Swiss Folk music Down König 1. Sylvia Hochuli .........................................13648 called? 2. Trudi Wellauer .........................................13541 Down 1. Swiss painter and illustrator, born in Ins BE (1831-1910) 3. Hans Keller ..............................................13522 3. On what mountain near Berne does this famous annual rock festival take place? Swiss painter and illustrator, born in Ins BE (1831-1910). 5. What Swiss city celebrates the beginning of carnival with the 'Morgenstraich'? Team 1. Trudi & Bruno Wellauer ...........................26436 7. what Whatmountain is the firstnear name of our newest committee member On Bern does this famous annual rock(building management)? 2. Doris Conrad & Hans Keller .....................26356 festival take place? 3. Ida McDonald & Benny Hürliman............25357 What Swiss city celebrates the beginning of carnival with the ‘Morgenstraich’? Congratulations to the winning König & What is the first name of our newest committee member Champion Team 2009! (building management)?
For answers go to page 19
Upcoming Jass Nights - 2010 Swiss Club
1st 2nd 3rd 4th & Final
27 March 5 June 10 July 4 September
Matterhorn
1st 2nd 3rd
27 February 15 May 7 August
Bundesrätlicher Doppelwitz Bundesrat Ogi wird an der Grenze nach Österreich von einem Zöllner belehrt, dass er nicht nach ‘Stanton’ fahre, sondern nach St.Anton. Zurück an der Schweizer Grenze sagt Ogi, dass er noch weiter gefahren sei – nach St.Eiermark. Sein Kollege Bundesrat Stich habe, nachdem er diesen Witz gehört habe, bedächtig die legendäre Pfeife aus dem Mund genommen und genuschelt: «Das kann nicht sein, so lernfähig ist der nicht.»
w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
Information supplied by Paul Eisenegger 9544 4681
The Swiss Club Restaurant. It’s were you meet your friends.
11
The Trachtengruppe Schwyzergruess A.S.C.S. has grown to become a charity group whose main concern is the welfare of elderly citizens in our community. In our first 25 years the group has raised funds through various functions and are therefore able to organise the Mystery Trip and Kaffeklatsch (coffee/tea afternoon), visit and generally assist people where ever possible. We are still holding a stall at the Swiss Festival. Supportive members play a very important roll in helping raise the funds to subsidize our benevolent activities. Help us and become a supportive member of the group. Annual fees are $ 20 or $10 for pensioners. On behalf of the Trachtengruppe, I wish you all a happy Festive Season and good health for 2010. Sylvia Hochuli For information contact the committee:
Kaffeeklatsch Sunday, 13 September The best dressed Ladies in the Tracht or Swiss costumes welcomed our Seniors to this special afternoon.
President .................... Sylvia Hochuli ................. 9531 6575 Vice President ............ Marlies Krummenacher... 9503 9921 Secretary .................... Rosmarie Oswald ............ 9583 9048 Treasurer .................... Ursula Erdin .................... 9568 8564 Committee member .. Margrit Schacher ............ 5964 6771
The delicious cake buffet had something sweet for everyone and conversations with lots of laughter were heard on every table. The team looks forward to run many more of these very rewarding days in years to come. On behalf of the group, I would like to say thank you to the Swiss Club for letting us use the premises for the Kaffeeklatsch. A special thank you to Roger Moullet for the support! Sylvia Hochuli
Part of German Language program on Melbourne 93.1fm
Tune into news, information and entertainment about everything that is Swiss in Switzerland and downunder. Ursula Schappi presents an informative half-hour program in Swiss-German. Every Sunday from 8:30 to 9pm on 93.1fm To listen online visit: www.sbs.com.au/yourlanguage/german To contact Ursula: leave a message on (02) 9955 7628 or ring 0407 995 578
12
Swiss Club of Victoria
High praise for Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand G’day John,
2009 has passed in a flash. With so many performances in our 60th anniversary year, we look proudly back at our achievements. Travelling to Brisbane to perform with Austrian and German groups and share our diverse but common cultures, will stay in our memory for many years to come. Together with the singers and yodlers, we enjoyed a wonderful weekend at the Swiss-Italian Festa in Hepburn Springs. And of course the Swiss Festival, Unterhaltungsabend, our concerts at the nursing homes and others, have given us reasons to practice throughout the year.
a few days ago, I received your CD from Marcel and Trudi Theiler. Myself, I have been playing for more than 30 years, i.e. clarinet, saxophone and Swiss accordion. 10 years ago we founded the ‘Swiss Ländler Gamblers’ (www.gamblers. ch). Since then the band has performed at over 700 gigs. Marcel and Trudi always come to our gigs, when they are in Switzerland. This is how I received your CD when we met up at a recent performance in Schwarzenburg. I have now finally found the time to listen to your production quietly. From the first sound onwards, it is clear that we have experienced musicians here. Congratulations: rhythm and harmony are very good. Played with feeling (your hearts are in it!!) and you hear that the players have fun doing it. Bravo. The bass provides a good and solid background - does not push the speed and is not lagging behind either. You immediately notice that the intonation is very clean. All the voices are excellently balanced. Therefore, a BIG compliment! We have of course many bands in Switzerland but also many, who do not play in your league. I love to listen to Jazz and play as well. This is why I love your music which contains a bit of swing. I wish all of you musicians continued fun and much success. Best Regards from Switzerland - very close to Bern, René Schmid Member of the ‘Swiss Ländler Gamblers’
And we hope to continue the tradition of Swiss folkdancing. A sincere thank you to all our friends and supporters for their generosity. To the Swiss Club and Roger Moullet, thank you for letting us use the premises for our practice and your generosity. The group meets every Tuesday evening at the Club at 8.15pm and new members are always welcome!
Ein ‘Ogi Klassiker’ Adolf Ogi besucht mit seiner Gattin in Bonn einen Wohltätigkeitsball. Das Ehepaar Ogi sitzt mit Bundeskanzler Helmut Kohl und dessen Gattin am Ehrentisch. Helmut Kohl entfernt sich für längere Zeit, kehrt zurück und fragt Adolf Ogi: «Na, Herr Ogi, haben Sie schon mit meiner Gemahlin getanzt?» Ogi: «Nein, Herr Bundeskanzler. Das Schwein habe ich noch nicht gehabt.»
On behalf of the Dance Group I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. Sylvia Hochuli w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
Support those that support your Club. Consider our Advertisers
13
Ursula Schappi – the voice of ‘Echo Helvetia’ Editor: Ursula, many members would recognise your voice from the SBS radio program ‘Echo Helvetia’ which is broadcasted out of Sydney every Sunday evening from 8.30pm to 9pm and can be heard in Melbourne on FM 93.1. But not many would recognise you if they happen to meet you and know anything about you other that you are a great presenter that knows everything that is happening in Switzerland and the local Swiss community. Ursula: Thank you Roland! You are right, I am a Sydney girl, but I do occasionally visit Melbourne and I have over the years met quite a few Swiss Club members that may recognise my face. Editor: Would you like to tell us a little bit about you? I am not 100% sure about your Swiss accent, but I suspect it might be ‘Bündner Dialect’? Ursula: Of course it is! Perhaps I have been out here a little too long and it may not sound as strong as it once did. A long time ago…I grew up in Flims and later in Valbella-Lenzerheide, both ski resorts in the Grisons/Graubünden. Editor: So what brought you from that beautiful mountain paradise to this sunburnt country? Ursula: I had itchy feet from an early age and dreamed of going to South America…but instead I ended up in Sydney. I remember it quite well, it was a bright Sunday morning on 7th April 1968 when we came in through ‘the Heads’ on a French freighter-cum-passenger-boat, a floating administration of the ‘Messagerie Maritime’. We left Marseille, through Gibraltar, across to Panama and then visited a great many Pacific islands, all forming part of ‘La Grande Nation’: Guadeloupe, Curacao, the Marquises, Tahiti, the (then) New Hebrides, New Caledonia and finally we arrived in Botany Bay. What a trip, what great many impressions on a young Swiss mountain kid like me. Editor: Indeed! Sadly, traveling by airplane these days is nowhere near as exciting. Did you come to Australia to stay for good? Ursula: Oh now, not at all. It was at the height of European migration to Australia, at a time when the Government paid willing migrants ‘assisted passage’, when we were expected to turn into ‘New Australians’ overnight, a time when everything was ‘the biggest’ and ‘the best in the Southern Hemisphere’, when Australians considered themselves ‘second to none’…the problem was that not many newcomers saw this (neither did I) and that as many migrants left Australia as new ones came into the country. If anybody had told me then that I would stay, I would have laughed Editor: So what made you stay anyway? Ursula: Well, ‘change was in the air’ in the early seventies. Australia abandoned the assimilation policy and moved to a more inclusive, multicultural policy. It was when they issued provisional radio licenses for Melbourne and Sydney to broadcast the government’s community relations campaigns (Medicare) in other languages than English. It signaled a new
14
approach in dealing with the increasingly multicultural society; a time of renewal, of optimism, of adult education, of free university studies and more. Editor: It appears you involved yourself with the Australian social and political life at an early stage. What did these changes that you described mean for you? Ursula: I benefited from these policy changes as it enabled me to pursue university studies. I graduated from Macquarie University with a degree in the behavioural sciences and a few years later, with a Masters in alternative dispute resolution. Editor: I take it this would have set the course for your professional life? Ursula: Yes definitely. For many years I worked in the community health sector, in social research and project development, at a time when the first post war migrants were getting older and needed care. It was a stimulating time for me, an eye opener because, through my work I met so many people of different origins, with different war experiences they wanted to share with me, the ‘neutral Swiss’. Later I worked as a ‘Conciliation Officer’ with Workcover (NSW) in a program that attempts to resolve disputes informally between workers, employers and insurance companies. Because those with poor English language skills are bound to find jobs in high risk industries, they are bound to have work-related accidents and end up in disputes over compensation entitlements. I fitted into this mix of people and enjoyed working across the language barrier with or without interpreters. Editor: Was it through your work and the experience that you gained in these fields that you got into becoming a radio presenter with SBS? Ursula: Spot on. SBS Radio is another hub of cultural and linguistic diversity. From the early days SBS recognised different languages but no political boundaries. It means that the Swiss language diversity could not be met in one program and that the Swiss-French have been allocated to the French, the SwissGermans to the German language program. In both Melbourne and Sydney the Swiss-German community linked up with the Austrians and the Germans – and, from the early days established a self-contained half hour weekly segment within the German program. Despite many upheavals, re-structures and technical changes, we maintain this half hour weekly program over three decades and, importantly, continue to broadcast it on Sunday nights from 8.30-9pm (in Melbourne on FM 93.1 or DAB 4). Swiss Club of Victoria
Editor: You have been doing this for over 30 years? Ursula: Yes, I joined at a time when Primo Calabresi and Gabriela Shinners were broadcasting in Sydney in the late seventies I think, and I’m still doing it today. Editor: An incredible commitment! Why are you doing this? Ursula: Why? Because it is interesting and most of the time it’s fun! The weekly summary of events in Switzerland keeps me informed of ‘things happening over there’ and I meet a great many interesting Swiss through these broadcasts. Editor: Usually it is you that is in the driver’s seat when conducting interviews. How does it feel in reverse role? Ursula: Admittedly, it is a bit ‘unusual’ not only because of the role reversal, but also because this is print and not radio. Editor: I enjoy interviewing the interviewer! I assume a radio program would be technically much more involved?
Ursula: Not really. Radio interviews are technically simple. It allows you to concentrate on the person and to quickly establish rapport with the interviewee. It is a concentrated form of communication and, depending on the speaker, allows you to move fairly quickly over a wide range of topics that are (hopefully) of interest to the listeners and myself! Editor: Any other aspects of broadcasting that you particular enjoy? Ursula: I enjoy the radio program because it keeps me in touch with the Swiss community – ‘virtually’ at least. I do hear in a round-about way that someone is listening out there, however, I would enjoy a bit more feedback and for this purpose invite members to get in touch with me via email: ursula.schappi@ sbs.com Editor: Thank you Ursula, for this interview and for providing an interesting, meaningful and entertaining half-hour every Sunday!
We have been supplying the Australian and international trade with our locally manufactured jewellery for over 30 years. Our opals are cut and polished and our jewellery is designed and crafted in our own Melbourne workshop. For the first time you can now view our exquisite collection in our own showroom at 55 ELIZABETH STREET, MELBOURNE. Buy direct from your Swiss Goldsmith – buy Australian Made From inexpensive gifts to exclusive handmade pieces to your own custom made design. For expert advice and great service ask for Paul Kramer or Hansruedi Gassmann Phone us on (03) 8611 2222 or visit us online on www.artofopal.com Our showroom is open Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm and Sat-Sun 10am-4pm Special discounts to members, families and friends Also in our showroom:
Extensive collection of Aboriginal Fine Art, Paintings, Artifacts, unique Craft-Giftware www.malleeart.com
w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
15
16
Swiss Club of Victoria
Weihnachtsstern
Samichlaus Versli
Hätt einer auch fast mehr Verstand Als wie die drei Weisen aus dem Morgenland Und liesse sich dünken, er wär wohl nie Dem Sternlein nachgereist wie sie. Dennoch, wenn nun das Weihnachtsfest Seine Lichtlein wonniglich scheinen lässt, Fällt auch auf sein verständig Gesicht, Er mag es merken oder nicht, Ein freundlicher Strahl Des Wundersternes von dazumal.
Was isch das für es Liechtli? Was isch das für e Schiin? De Chlaus mit de Latärne lauft grad de Wald dur y. Si Esel, de hed glade, er rüeft, I-a, I-a! Hüt darf ich mid mim Meischter Emal is Stedtli ga! Im Sack, da heds vill Nusse, au Tirgel und Zimmedschtärn, die träg ich, wär‘s e Zentner, für d‘Chinde erscht no gärn!
The Good Deed for Christmas With the financial support of the Swiss Society of Victoria, we are once more able to provide our Seniors with a Christmas Celebration on 5 December. Over the years our Senior Guests were presented with a bag of homemade Christmas cookies, a most welcome and treasured gift. The ladies of the Trachtengruppe Schwyzergruess and many silent helpers prepared the sweet bounty. But many of those Elves got older and frailer, some passing to a better place (Christkindli’s headquarter), and the Guetsli bags got smaller and smaller.
Wilhelm Busch
Senior Christmas Afternoon Tea Saturday, 5 December 2009 at 2pm The Swiss Club of Victoria with the support of the Swiss Society of Victoria, the Trachtengruppe Schwyzergruess, the Folk Dance Group Alpenrose and the Swiss Companion Singers invites Swiss Nationals born 1938 or earlier and Partners to a Senior Christmas Afternoon Tea at the Swiss Club of Victoria, 89 Flinders Lane, Melbourne. This event is free of charge. For information please contact: Rita Schwärzler-Abbt, 9561 7811, ritaherbert@bigpond.com Sylvia Hochuli, 9531 6575, hochuli@tpg.com.au Please pass on the word to other Senior Swiss in the community, born 1938 or earlier.
Senior Christmas Afternoon Tea Reply slip Yes I/we are able to attend the Christmas Afternoon Tea: Name(s):
Help is needed! We look for kind and talented people out there, who could spare a bit of time and a few nuts and eggs and help to fill the ‘stocking’. Please contact Rita Schwärzler-Abbt on 9561 7811, ritaherbert@bigpond.com or Sylvia Hochuli on 9531 6575, hochuli@tpg.com.au
Lets keep this wonderful tradition alive!! w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
Telephone: Mail to Rita Schwärzler-Abbt 18 Hertford Crescent, Wheelers Hill Vic 3150
17
150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE RED CROSS
Who was the father of the Red Cross? Henry Dunant is often described as a saintly humanitarian idealist who founded the Red Cross, yet the story of his life is little known and full of contrasts. Swiss playwright Michel Beretti, author of a play about Henry Dunant, said: “If he’s a saint, he’s a funny kind of saint, as his personality and life is extremely contradictory. There are several different Dunants.” Henry Dunant was born into a religious, humanitarian and civic-minded family in Geneva on 8 May, 1828. But he was not very gifted academically and was forced to leave the Collège Calvin in Geneva due to poor grades. He later took up an apprenticeship with a money-changing firm. At the age of 26 he entered the business world as a representative of the Compagnie Genevoise des Colonies de Sétif in North Africa and Sicily. He went on to devise a financial scheme to make his fortune, making himself president of the Financial and Industrial Company of Mons-Gémila Mills in Algeria to exploit a large tract of land. Needing water rights, he came up with the audacious idea of asking Emperor Napoleon III directly. At the time Napoleon was in the field directing the French armies who, with the Italians, were trying to drive the Austrians out of Italy. Violent shock Dunant made his way to Napoleon’s headquarters near the northern Italian town of Solferino and by chance arrived there in time to witness, and to participate in the aftermath of the Battle of Solferino, near Lake Garda. When the fighting had subsided, over 40,000 soldiers lay dying on the battlefield, many suffering from horrendous injuries. The Geneva businessman was deeply affected by the butchery and, with help from local people, organised first aid for the wounded and sick. “This was a shock and deep psychological wound for him, from which he would never recover,” said Beretti. Back home, Dunant wrote a book about his experiences, entitled ‘A Memory of Solferino’, and developed the idea of an organisation to assist the war wounded as a contribution towards creating a more civilised world and alleviating the sufferings of war. Geneva committee In 1863, with his experience of the slaughter of Solferino still fresh in his mind, Dunant and four Swiss acquaintances created a committee that would later become the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Beretti laughs about this Geneva creation. “The beginning of
18
the Red Cross is absurd when you think about it,” he said. “Five guys who decide to meet in an apartment in Geneva to found an international organisation. It’s incredible!”But only one year on, with the support of the five founding ICRC members, the Swiss government organised a diplomatic conference attended by 16 states, which led to the signing of the first Geneva Convention. The treaty fixes limits to the rules of war, establishing the humanitarian treatment of battlefield casualties and adoption of a special identifying emblem - in virtually all instances a red cross on a field of white. Bankrupt outcast For Dunant the next 30 years stood in stark contrast to this earlier years. His businesses in Algeria had suffered, partially because he had devoted too much time to his humanitarian pursuits. In April 1867, the bankruptcy of the financial firm Crédit Genevois led to a scandal involving Dunant. He was forced to declare bankruptcy and was condemned by a Geneva court on 17 August, 1868 for deceptive financial practices. After the disaster, which involved many of his Geneva friends, Dunant became a social outcast and within a few years he was literally living like a beggar. Co-founder Gustave Moynier thought the bankruptcy and Dunant’s bad reputation in Geneva would damage the image of the new Red Cross, so he distanced Dunant from the committee. In 1875 Dunant left the city, profoundly disappointed, and eventually settled in Heiden, a small village in canton Appenzell Outer Rhodes. This was a huge wound for him as he was convinced of the sincerity and need for his humanitarian work. As he was ill, Dunant was moved in 1892 to the hospice at Heiden. And here, in Room 12, he spent the remaining 18 years of his life. During this time the ICRC continued to work and develop on its own without him. Rehabilitation But he was not totally unknown. In 1895 German journalist Georg Baumberger wrote an article about Dunant, which was picked up by the world’s press and catapulted him back into the public eye. In 1901, Dunant was awarded the first-ever Nobel Peace Prize for his role in founding the International Red Cross Movement and initiating the Geneva Convention. He died on 30 October, 1910 and was buried in Zürich without ceremony. But official congratulations from the ICRC for the Nobel Peace Swiss Club of Victoria
Prize seemed to secure the final rehabilitation of Dunant’s reputation. “There is no man who more deserves this honour, for it was you, 40 years ago, who set up the international organisation for the relief of the wounded on the battlefield. Without you, the Red Cross, the supreme humanitarian achievement of the nineteenth century would probably have never been undertaken,” it wrote. “Without Dunant the other four founders of the Red Cross would never have gone so far,” said Jaeger. “Dunant’s dynamism and obsession meant that things went much faster. Fifty years later the Red Cross would probably have occurred elsewhere, but he simply accelerated history,” he said. “He was an idealist, but someone who wanted to give concrete expression to his ideals.”
It’s your Club. Get involved
The Swiss Club Championship Competition was held on Friday, 9 October on the top floor of the Swiss Club. Being the final competition for 2009, it was great to see 20 participants competing for the honours. The final was between Paul Thornton and Chris Laube with Paul triumphing over Chris. A big thank-you to all participants and to Roger for looking after us. Best wishes for the Festive Season to all of you! I look forward seeing everyone in 2010. Dates for 2010 will be published in the next Newsletter. If you have any queries or suggestions do not hesitate to contact me on 9439 7593 or 0418 645 313. Louis Schneider
Marcel is flying high! Roland Theiler (son of Marcel and Trudi Theiler) writes: this is my father paragliding from Beatenberg to Interlaken last week at the age of 81! Today he did it again from Schynige Platte! Good on you Marcel!
Test your Swiss Knowledge - Answers Across: 2. SAMICHLAUS 4. PARACELSUS 6. RENOVATIONS 8. CHILLON 9. YODELING Down: 1. ALBERTANKER 3. GURTEN 5. BASEL 7. ANTONY w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
19
ORGANISATION OF THE SWISS ABROAD
Report on the Congress of the Swiss Abroad At the Congress of the Swiss Abroad held in Luzern from 7-9 August, the Council of the Swiss Abroad constituted itself for a four year period with many new council members present for the first time. The President, Mr. JacquesSimon Eggly, from Geneva, presided over proceedings over the next two days in a very efficient and businesslike manner. To begin with, the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad with its Secretariat (26 people) in Berne is the recognised voice and representative of some 700,000 Swiss living outside Switzerland and is managed by Mr. Rudolf Wyder. At the Secretariat, policies, initiatives, drafting of resolutions, interventions, and petitions are formulated and once approved are brought forward to the Swiss authorities on all levels and so enable the Swiss from abroad to be taken seriously. The strategic plan of the Council of the Swiss Abroad mainly encompasses the following aims for the next period of tenure of four years: • Consolidate the legal status of the Swiss Abroad and ‘foster’ the Swiss Community Abroad. • Increase and institutionalise the political participation of the Swiss Abroad in Switzerland. • Further develop the flow of Swiss Information to the Swiss Abroad. Creation of a Swiss Community on the internet for the Swiss Abroad. • Consolidate and assist the development of the Institutions of the Swiss Abroad. • The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad to become the centre of competency for all matters regarding the Swiss Abroad. Each above-mentioned goal is further detailed in a plan of action. The main points on the agenda of the Council of the Annual Congress centred mainly around the following points: • The theme of ‘Value of the Swiss Abroad to Switzerland’ was dealt with in numerous speeches from various officials
20
of the Swiss federal, cantonal and local government representatives. Generally it was acknowledged that the Swiss Abroad are a valuable asset to promote Switzerland abroad, etc. • swissInfo: this topic was widely discussed and resulted later in a motion. The budget of Swiss Radio has been vigorously cut by the Swiss authorities and as a consequence swissInfo, which is part of Swiss Radio, is risking having to cut its Information Service and delivery agreement to the Swiss Abroad. The website www.swissInfo.ch is a valuable source of information, not only for the Swiss living abroad, but for anyone who cares to log in. It is a well run website and the Swiss Abroad are encouraged to make use of it. Later the Council voted on a motion to ask the authorities to reinstate the original budget. • Swiss Review: Those of the Swiss Abroad having previously received six yearly issues, receive now only four, as a result of a cut in Federal Budget by CHF 500,000. Again a motion was passed to ask the Swiss authorities to reinstate the delivery of six issues. The Swiss Review is one of the most important tools and links the Swiss Abroad with the Swiss Government and assures to stay in touch and to interact. The recipients of the Swiss Review will have to decide either to receive an electronic version of the Swiss Review or the hard copy by mail. • On another initiative: the Secretariat of the ASO makes all efforts to become the main official contact point for the Swiss Abroad, if they want to contact Swiss authorities. This would guarantee in most cases a professional impact and many private initiatives would become more efficient if taken on board officially. Hence the Secretariat aims at petitioning the Federal Government to unify all the various Federal Agencies dealing with the Swiss Abroad into one centralised one. This topic was also subject of a resolution. General Comments: • I was impressed by the scope of diversity undertaken by the Secretariat in Berne and by the readiness to deal
with upcoming matters. A few additional points which are noteworthy and which were discussed at the Congress. • Electronic voting for the Swiss Abroad on federal matters: Cantons of Geneva and Basel are likely to be first, general electronic voting for all Swiss Abroad in all cantons should be ready by approximately 2015. Security is the main concern and; federal referenda and elections are organised by the cantons. Most importantly, all Swiss Abroad are encouraged to register as voters in Switzerland. Carrying a Swiss passport not only has privileges, but also duties, such as participating in the political process in Switzerland. Swiss Abroad can register either in the canton of their place of origin in Switzerland or at the local council of your last residential address. Of about 700,000 Swiss living abroad, only about 120,000 are registered voters. • A lively discussion evolved around the issue of some Swiss banks denying or closing now private bank accounts of Swiss living in the USA. • Swiss Tourism has become a partner of the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad. • The Swiss Clubs in Australia or their members are encouraged to bring forward items which they think are of importance and they would like to have dealt with by the Swiss Secretariat or by the delegates from Australia. Finally, it was very stimulating to meet with Swiss from all over the world, hearing of their problems and how they solve them. There was plenty of time for interaction during the Congress and it was most enjoyable to conclude the Congress with a magnificent trip first on the lake of Lucerne, then up to the Rigi, in beautiful sunshine. The next meeting of the Council will be held in Berne on Saturday, 27 March, 2010 and the Congress in St. Gallen from Friday, 20 August, 2010 to Sunday, 22 August, 2010. Beat Knoblauch Delegate, Council of the Swiss Abroad Swiss Club of Victoria
New families welcome! The Swiss Playgroup was established in 1998 and aims to foster and support families to speak the Swiss German Language. It however soon becomes evident that, while the children enjoy playing together, the playgroup is important for the mothers, as it offers a great opportunity to meet other parents from the same background, with similar experiences. Often long-lasting friendships are formed, where the parents become good friends and the children get to know other children who can speak Swiss German. The playgroup caters for preschool aged children from 0 to 5 years old. We meet on the 1st Thursday of each month on the 2nd Floor of the Swiss Club. Generally we arrive at 11am and one of our members has prepared a craft activity. This could be some painting, playdough or paper-craft in general. Then we all enjoy a yummy Swiss meal from the Swiss Club kitchen. We all wouldn’t want to miss out eating a plate of Rösti or a Bratwurst! Afterwards the children play with a variety of toys and sometimes we try out our best singing voices by singing Swiss German songs. It has become a tradition to bake Gritibänze in December. We bring in the dough, the children get to make their own creations and Roger lets us use his big oven. What a hit it is each year! Just as much as the Easter egg hunt, that is held in a park. But which child (or parent) does not enjoy searching for chocolate eggs, of course, only of the best Swiss quality! There is no cost involved for Swiss Club members and non members make a small contribution of $3.00 per family per session. The playgroup is part of the Victorian Playgroup Association. Our playgroup is only as much fun as the members contributing to it. Ingrid Preston (9772 0516) w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
The Saturday Morning Swiss School has a long tradition and aims to foster and support families to speak and teach their children the Swiss German language and thus bringing Swiss children closer to their Swiss heritage. Our teachers are teaching the children in a playful and engaging way in Swiss German about Switzerland, its history, culture, and traditions. We have currently only a small group of children and would like to encourage families with children at school age to participate in our school. When: Every other Saturday Morning (except school holidays) from 10:00am to 1:00pm at the Swiss Club, 2nd Floor. Contact: Andrea Pinch, Convenor T: Phone 5331 6762, E: pinch@hotkey.net.au Visit: www.swiss.org.au/scvschool
I want to wish everyone a wonderful Christmas and all the very best for the new year. A big thank you to the ladies for their continuous support and good company. Looking forward to see you and your friends again in 2010. Many thanks to Roger and Staff and to my special helpers!! Dates for the forthcoming luncheons in 2010:
• Wednesday, 3 March • Wednesday, 5 May Price $22 pp for members, $25 pp for nonmembers. Includes 2-course meal, wine, soft drinks and coffee. Everyone welcome! For information and bookings ring me on 9889 9321or Roger at the Club on 9650 1196. Bookings are essential! Heidy Giger
21
The new kid on the block
Interested in History and loving your Swiss Club? Then we need YOU! The Swiss Club is looking for interested members to become the Club’s historians and archivists
New Swiss Federal Councillor Didier Burkhalter, 49, of the center-right Free Democratic Party (FDP) takes the oath flanked by two ushers in Bern after he was elected to a seat in the Swiss cabinet by the Federal Assembly, a joint session of the House of Representatives and Senate, on 16 September, 2009 in Bern. A by-election to the Swiss Federal Council was held, after incumbent Federal Councillor Pascal Couchepin (Free Democratic Party, FDP) announced his intention to retire on 31 October, 2009. Some saw the election as an important decision regarding whom the ‘fourth seat’ in the Federal Council belonged to (the FDP or the CVP), and as an indirect political decision regarding whether the SP or the SVP would have more influence in the future.
The Club wants to make it easier for those people that one day will be working on the Club’s 200 year history book! It is therefore important that history is recorded accurately and on an ongoing basis. This includes tasks such as the collection, labelling/ sorting and storage of photo material, both electronic and in hardcopy, the collection of printed material and memorabilia, researching some ‘mysteries of the past’, or even conducting interviews! So far, one person has come forward but ideally we would like to find another one or two volunteers to share the tasks. Anyone with a flair and passion in preserving what makes this Club what it is, should contact the President or the Editor – see contact details on page 3.
Didier Burkhalter was elected to succeed Pascal Couchepin in the fourth ballot with 129 votes.
Flagging climate Coalition calls for reduction of CO² emissions. Representatives of Switzerland’s Climate Alliance - a coalition of 52 Swiss organisations - unfurl a giant Swiss flag in Bern to call on the government to sign up to binding CO² reduction goals at this month’s climate change summit in Copenhagen.
22
Europe’s highest vineyard spins heads The village of Visperterminen in the canton of Valais is famous all over the world for its vineyards planted between 650 and 1150 metres above sea level. The narrow terraces with their dry stone walls rise 500 metres in a very short space. The Heida grapes are known as the ‘pearl of alpine wines’. Of ancient origin it is thought to be identical to the Savagnin grape of French Savoie. Winegrowing has a long tradition in Visperterminen going back to ancient celtic times. Swiss Club of Victoria
Switzerland is not generally known as a space-faring nation, we haven’t launched any rockets into orbit nor has the SSS (Swiss-Space-Shuttle) become a reality yet. And even though the Swiss are well known for establishing thriving colonies in far away places such as Australia, the city of Lunar-Basel on the moon is just wishful thinking of mine. Most you will however remember our very own Astronaut Claude Nicollier who flew into space on four missions between 1992 and 1999 (http://www. claudenicollier.ch). Three years ago he has released a DVD with the title ‘Pour l’amour du ciel’ in which he describes his work for NASA (http://www.nasa.gov) in America and his current posting for the European Space Agency. But this Swiss Astronaut is just one of the many contributions that our home country has to offer towards the explorations of our solar system and beyond. As astronomy is one of my hobbies I have put together a small selection of interesting projects that have Swiss involvement. In June and July of 2003 NASA launched two robot rovers (Spirit and Opportunity) to Mars in order to study the geology of our red neighbour planet. The goal for each rover was to survive for three months, deploy their scientific instruments, gather data and drive around 1km on the surface. Well five years later and the rovers are still driving around in the dusty environments of Mars, the rover Opportunity is about to reach 20km on his odometer! How is that even possible? Well I would say it has to do with the fact that each of these rovers six wheels is powered by motors which have been developed and built in Switzerland. Each wheel is 26 centimetres in diameter and has a unique spiral pattern that helps the rovers climb rocks and other obstacles. Visit http://marsrovers.jpl.nasa.gov to learn more about these amazing rovers who have answered our age old question on whether water ever existed on Mars. The success of this mission has lead NASA to develop an even bigger rover called Mars Science Laboratory which will w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
lift-off in 2011. About the size of my Suzuki Swift with its own nuclear power plant on board, this rover is the biggest manmade object ever to fly to Mars. Of course the Swiss companies that were involved with the first rovers are part of this project as well, and you can be part of it too! Go to http://mars.jpl. nasa.gov/msl/participate/sendyourname/ where you can put your name to be included among others on a Microchip which will fly onboard the rover to our closest planetary neighbour in our solar system. Swiss companies are essential for the successful delivery of satellites into orbit and to be true, my initial statement that there are no Swiss rockets is not quite correct. RUAG Space Switzerland builds what is known as a payload fairing, it is essentially the nose cone of any rocket (such as the European Arian 5) where within the highly delicate satellite is being transported at three-times the speed of sound through our atmosphere to be deployed in outer space (http://www.ruag. com/Aerospace/Space/RUAG_Space_Switzerland) Many universities back home have dedicated projects together with the European Space Agency, better known as ESA. Visit http://www.esa.int/esaCP/ Switzerland_ge.html to get an overview of Swiss involvements in the exploration of the universe. The most exciting one for me is the development of SwissCube, the first satellite to be completely designed and built in Switzerland (see article published in ‘Edelweiss’ Sept 08). The ETH Lausanne and four specialised tertiary education facilities (Fachhochschulen in Western and Northern Switzerland and the University of Neuenburg) have pooled their knowledge and resources to construct this Pico-satellite which weighs only 1kg and measures 10cm square. The launch of this tiny satellite into its 720km high orbit was completed only last month and the mission objective is to measure ‘Airglow’, a green shimmering above our stratosphere which can only be seen at night at a hight of 100km above the earths surface. This link will bring you to the project webpage (german only) http://www.esa.int/ esaCP/SEMJ9AXRA0G_Switzerland_ge_0.html Swiss scientist also play a vital role in helping us understand planetary systems beyond our own galaxy. Exoplanets is the scientific name for planets that orbit stars other than our own sun. Astronomers from Geneva have just recently discovered 32 new planets which brings the number of known Exoplanets to over 400. For the European Southern Observatory (http:// www.eso.org/public/), Michel Mayor and his team from the observatory of the Geneva university have built HARPS (High Accuracy Radial Velocity Planet Searcher) which assist with the detection of Exoplanets. As these planets are too far away to be detected by observatories directly, HARPS measures the wobble that stars experience when the gravity of planets around them alters their rotation slightly. I’m looking forward to your feedback on Switzerland’s contribution to space exploration, contact me on damianschaller@mac.com Damian Schaller
23
nt’sSwitzerland Message‘Under 17s’ crowned world soccer facilities. As a result proper marketing and promotion would be required. Another idea is to modernise the existing area as champions! a multipurpose room i.e. members can use the upstairs and
sed
d
d d all We
o of
s to ture.
t.
ng
e
rn
meetings be held as well. What do a The Swiss could U-17 football team realised themembers first Swisswant World place for in the city? Perhaps a place for celebrations (birthday Champion title in football history. In the group games of the parties, weddings etc.) perhaps a club lounge, a gym, a movie tournament they clocked up three wins to top their group. theatre? Dear member, tell us what you have in mind! We They encounters against Mexico, Japan and Brazil wouldwon liketheir to hear from you! to top the ranking. On their way to the final against Nigeria, On another note the many Swiss groups of Victoria have been they eliminated Germany, Italy and Columbia for their final’s regularly meeting at the club for building closer relationships encounter with Nigeria on 15 November. After defeating and not to loose sight of each other after the brick and mortar Nigeria 1-0, the Swiss national ‘Under 17’ football side is Swiss Consulate in Melbourne closed its doors last year. In the crowned world champions thanks to a Haris Seferovic header course of these meetings the idea was born of a joint event just after the hour. Despite camping out in the Swiss half for of Swiss Victorian groups in 2008. It was decided to use the much of the second half and having a goal disallowed, the Volksfest as the most promising model for success. To realise Nigerians were unable to break down a spirited defence. this project the Swiss Club has again applied for a grant with the Victorian Multicultural The date for The result provides a logicalCommission conclusion (VMC). to a tournament where nextSwiss year’steam Volksfest will be the 6 April the defeated everyone in its2008 path.which will take place at the Austrian Club. I suggest you put it in your agenda now so you will not forget! Also please note that the club restaurant closes for the period Friday, 21 December after lunch and reopens for business on Monday, 7 January 2008 for a well deserved break. As this is the forth and last edition of the ‘Edelweiss’ in 2007 on behalf of the committee I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our readers and members for their support and continued involvement with the club! Wishing you all a happy Festive Season and good health for the New Year! See you at the club in 2008! Rolf Huber, President
From Zürich to Flemington Swiss adventurer Lukas Baumann is a passionate horse lover who decided early this year he wanted to be at the race that stops the nation - the Melbourne Cup. But there was a twist. He wanted to drive here. He quit his job, sold his apartment and hit the road in the 15-year-old, four-cylinder vehicle he bought second-hand from his father. Everyone who knew him told him he was mad. His mechanic said the car would never make it. Having celebrated his 39th birthday last week, he and his lefthand drive Volvo have arrived just in time for the Melbourne Cup on 3 November. The car’s had a wash and Mr Baumann has borrowed a suit for the special event. There are many layers to Mr Baumann’s obsessed odyssey. He is a successful horseman who has travelled the world competing in three-day events. He is an intrepid traveller who back-packed around Australia on a working visa in 1996 when he attended his first Melbourne Cup. “I remember standing in a path where all the roses are and thinking this is so good, I will be back.” The dream of being at the 2009 Melbourne Cup took him on a journey which has since become the dream. “All the wonderful people I have met, the things I have seen, the fact that I have eaten street food and not even been sick.” Australians go mad for the Melbourne Cup but there is one particularly mad Swiss who has made the trek from Europe just to be at Flemington.
A heros welcome in Zürich for the juniors after their historic win
Nothing too unusual there, but what makes him standout from the rest of the punters is that he drove 36,000km from Zürich to Melbourne to attend, all in his trusty, banged up old Volvo. After a rough start to 2009, Lukas Baumann and his Australian mate decided to go on the adventure of a lifetime. Along their mammoth journey he’s dodged bullets, been locked up in Pakistan, been forced to a crawl after breaking a drive-shaft in Nepal, slept in the hottest and the coldest of conditions, all in the pursuit of a dream.
n on om
le, tc.
ber age is
o o p!
24
Swiss Club of Victoria
Swiss Club of Victoria
High skies, wide valleys Most Swiss do not live in the mountains; yet Switzerland is the country whose identity is most strongly defined by mountains. In the year 1998 Switzerland, a highly industrialised nation, appeared as guest of honour at the Frankfurt Book Fair under the slogan “Hohe Himmel, enges Tal” (high skies, wide valleys). In most cultures, mountains are a symbol of proximity to God. Mountain peaks rise above mundane humanity and reach towards the sky. Cloud-veiled peaks are a source of inspiration, but also of water, and make for fertile valleys. Christianity in particular often portrays the Judge of the Apocalypse on a cloudy peak, with the other mountains receding into the background. Citizens of the Swiss Confederation are used to living with mountains, and, in part, to making their living from mountains. The trading routes from north to south and vice versa cross the Swiss Alps, the most important being the Simplon pass. Until well into the 18th century, however, travel was not enjoyable, but entailed a continual life-threatening struggle against terrifying mountains. “This monstrous valley of ice portrays a cruelly untamed region filled with terror, where no one would dare to venture other than those whose curiosity leads them despite the danger of losing their lives,” is the description written in 1760 by Gottlieb Sigmund Gruner of the Trift glacier in the Susten-Grimsel region, to cite just one of many examples. Several decades earlier, in 1723, the Bernese scientist and poet Albrecht von Haller (pictured) published an anthology of Swiss poems (Versuch Schweizerischer Gedichte), which marks the beginning of a distinctly Swiss literature and initiates a positive perception of mountains with the poem “The Alps”.
kind; they are rock-solid; an individual is willing to sacrifice himself for the communal good, if necessary. This was declared on the Rütli and is a theme that would later reappear in the Gotthard mountain redoubt fortress. The tourist infrastructure was developed during the Belle Epoque (1850–1914): Peter Ober “discovered” previously neglected Alpine flora in Interlaken, Johannes Badrutt invented winter sports in St. Moritz. Climbers came to the mountains on a quest of self-discovery. Magnificent palace hotels sprang up in many areas, some with 200 to 300 beds. Transportation infrastructure has seen ongoing improvement, to the dismay of some. Day excursions have become possible, the Gotthard has been transformed into a rapid transit route. “Job killer” is what residents of Uri called the track when the tunnel was opened in 1882. Pioneers of flight such as Walter Mittelholzer published fascinating photos (“Alpine flight”, 1928). In the period between the two world wars, vacationing in the mountains, previously a luxury reserved for the wealthy, had become affordable for the ordinary people. But the traditional concept of Alpine development is no longer rock-solid. The appeal for “gentle” tourism was not taken into account in any substantial way until fairly recently. The view is gaining ground that the unspoiled nature of the Alps – the actual source of revenues – must be protected: the sanctity of nature has been restored.
Next time you visit the Swiss Club, before you entre the door, take a step back and have a look at the building and its suroundings. The streetscape has undergone a rejuvenation over the last couple of years. Flinders Lane is alive almost 24 hours a day. And the exterior of our club building has been keeping pace with these changes. Doesn’t it look great?
The very same mountains that were seen as terrifying thus became fertile; Haller’s mountains represent the purity of nature as a source of contentment and well-being, in contrast to urban society with all its shortcomings. Haller was not taken seriously at first. However, his writings had an unanticipated reception abroad: the English, with their sense of adventure, played a particularly active role in exploring the Alps. The Swiss gradually began to take notice of their mountainous surroundings. In the early days of the Confederation, the mountains were considered a highly visible sign of God’s favour, a protective bastion, a refuge for liberty. “When the Alps glow bright with splendour, Pray to God, to Him surrender,” writes Leonhard Widmer. The Cystercian monk P. Alberich Zwyssig set this text to music in 1841 as a church hymn. And the hymn’s predecessor, in use until 1961, “When my fatherland calls”, composed by Johann Rudolf Wyss in 1811 reads (roughly translated): “He who is not protected by Alpine ranges must seek protection from God. We are solid as a rock, will not faint in the face of danger; we will remain joyous to the death.” Mountains stand in contrast to inconstancy of any w w w.s w i s s .o r g.au/s w i s sc lu bv i c
25
Swiss Events & Functions Please note that this calendar also list events other than those organised by the Swiss Club of Victoria and its sub-groups. Please book all Swiss Club functions (bold entries) with Roger, phone 9650 1196 or fax 9650 3104 and check website for latest information and details of upcoming events. For all other events please contact the relevant organisation (see page 3 for contact details).
DECEMBER
Thursday Saturday Saturday Thursday
03 05 13 24
Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand entertains at the Club Senior Christmas Afternoon Tea – by invitation Samichlaus Breakfast - Fawkner Park Club Restaurant closes after lunch
JANUARY
Monday Monday
11 25
Club reopens for 2010 for lunch Editorial Deadline - Newsletter March issue
FEBRUARY
Thursday Saturday
04 27
Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand entertains at the Club Jass Night - Matterhorn
MARCH
Wednesday Thursday Wednesday Sunday Sunday Saturday
03 04 17 21 21 27
Ladies’ Luncheon Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand entertains at the Club Annual General Meeting Swiss Festival Comedy Festival starts – 2nd floor unavailable until April 21 Jass Night - Swiss Club
OTHER REGULAR SWISS CLUB MEETINGS: Committee Meetings: Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month Swiss Folk Dance Group Alpenrose: Practice every Tuesday evening at 8.15pm Swiss Companion Singers: Practice and social gathering every 2nd and 3rd Thursday of each month at 8pm Saturday Morning Swiss School: Every second Saturday Morning except school holidays, from 9.30am to 12.30pm Swiss German Playgroup: Meets every 1st Thursday of each month from 11am to 2pm Young Swiss Group: Dates for get-together can be found on www.swiss.org.au or on our Yahoo group http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ YoungSwissMelbourne/
Best wishes for the Festive Season to all members! I would like to take this opportunity to thank members for their valuable feedback, suggestions and ideas. And especially I thank the team of regular contributors for their great support throughout the year! The Editor
26
Swiss Club of Victoria
Kaffeeklatsch Movie Premiere
Dancers in Brisbane
RO U CLU
THE
IS SW S
SwissItalian Festa
T
ABOU D N B
110th Anniversary Celebration Half-Yearly General Meeting
Matterhorn 40th Anniversary
Triple anniversary gala dinner, a night to remember!