REGISTERED BY AUSTRALIA POST - PUBLICATION No. VBH 6369 JUNE 2012
Best ever Swiss Festival!
The Austrian Club and its the visitors that all food stuff and much of the imported Swiss outside entertainment area in beer and wine were fast selling out by early afternoon. Heidelberg West played host What would a Swiss Festival be without Yodeling? Well, we to the tenth Swiss Festival. The were faced with a dilemma when we found out that the weather was fine though a bit yodler of the Matterhorn Choir was not in the country. To cold, but Swiss people know solve that problem we decided to invite a very gifted Yodel how to dress duo from Auckland NZ, the Swiss Kiwi Yodlers appropriately. Peter & Ursula Arnold. It paid off and people By all accounts, really enjoyed their performance. Pleasing to the festival was know that the Matterhorn Choir managed to very successful, sing a song together with the visitors from perhaps the most successful one to-date with over New Zealand. Young talented Swiss-Australian 1,500 visitors attending the day-long festivities. musicians such as the singer Renee Moullet and The committee attributes the increase of numbers Jess Plattner (singing & piano) entertained the to a new approach of advertising including the festival goers and especially younger generations targeted use of social media, the Heidelberg with contemporary music. Traditional Swiss Leader and even The Age. Our special thanks go folklore was represented by the Dance Group to our new Public Relations professional Melinda Varley, who has Alpenrose, the Swiss Companion Singers, Chris Thalmann & volunteered to ambitiously work with various media in order to Markus Zihlmann with their Schwyzerörgeli and Tom Webb with get the Swiss Festival message out with a stunning outcome. the Singing Saw. Phil on the accordion and Beat Stuber with his Swiss delights were not in short supply such as Cervelat and guitar played well known tunes to sing along. To entertain the Bratwurst, potato salad, Raclette, Zopf, hazelnut croissants and kids a jumping castle, animal farm & magician was provided. We more. Our Swiss-French compatriots from the Groupe Romand du were glad to count again on the trusted services of our MC Joe Victoria baked wonderful ‘tartes aux fromages’ (cheese tarts) in Bovalino who is now on the breakfast team with Gold 104.3. top-of-the-line V-Zug ovens. Such was the insatiable appetite of Continued on page 6
./ SWISS CLUB OF VICTORIA SWISS CLUB SUB-GROUPS Pro Ticino Founded in 1899 President: Claude Rossi Swiss Folk Dance Group Alpenrose 5 Falls Road, Hoddles Creek Vic 3139 89 Flinders Lane, Melbourne Vic 3000 President: Sylvia Hochuli T: (03) 5967 4542 T: 1300 893 968, F: (03) 9650 3104 T: (03) 9531 6575 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.swissclubvic.com Swiss Yodel Choir Matterhorn Swiss Companion Singers President: Marco Unternährer Club Opening Hours Convenor: Heidy Giger 3 Bluegum Court, Upwey Vic 3158 Lunch: Mo - Fri from 12noon T: (03) 9889 9321 T: (03) 9729 3338, (03) 9752 6996 (H) Dinner: Wed, Thurs & Fri from 6pm E: [email protected] W: www.swiss.org.au/matterhorn Bookings T: (03) 9650 1196 Ladies Luncheons Swiss-Australian Chamber of Swiss Club Catering Convenor: Heidy Giger Commerce and Industry (SACCI) For all Functions contact Chef For bookings T: (03) 9650 1196 General Manager: Marcel Svatos & Catering Manager Roger Moullet For information: T: (03) 9889 9321 T: (02) 9262 1511, F: (02) 9290 1928 T: (03) 9650 1196, F: (03) 9650 3104 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] M: 0409 040 249 Postal address see: www.sacci.com.au E: [email protected] SwissKids Convenor: Esther Blaser-Tokarev Swiss-Australian Academic The Second Floor Function Bookings T: (03) 8521 3739 Network (SAAN) CBD Function Room with a difference! M: 0424 220 523 E: [email protected] Info and/or bookings: E: [email protected] W: www.saan.id.au T: 1300 893 968 E: thesecondfl[email protected] The Swiss Diners Club Embassy of Switzerland Convenor: Damian Schaller T: (02) 6162 8400, F: (02) 6273 3428 M: 0410 461 364 E: [email protected] COMMITTEE E: [email protected] Consulate General of Switzerland Barbara Kündig Swiss Festival T: (02) 8383 4000, F: (02) 9369 1334 President Chairman: Rolf Huber E: [email protected] T/F (H): (03) 9005 4938 T/F (H): (03) 9807 0282 Consulate of Switzerland M: 0402 018 363 M (B): 0425 805 854 T: (03) 9824 7527, M: 0413 042 728 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Rolf Huber Postal address and further information Immediate Past President SWISS COMMUNITY T/F (H): (03) 9807 0282 for all above see: M (B): 0425 805 854 ORGANISATIONS W: www.eda.admin.ch/australia E: [email protected] Swiss Society of Victoria Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (Benevolent Society) Council Member: Roland Isler Urs Derrick Wildi President: Franz Schnellmann Treasurer & Membership Contact details: see below under Editor T: (03) 9449 2245, M: 0412 203 893 W: www.aso.ch / www.swiss.org.au/csa Administration E: [email protected] T/F (H): (03) 9824 7930 M: 0403 040 930 Trachtengruppe Schwyzergruess E: [email protected] Australian/Swiss Cultural Society President: Sylvia Hochuli Sigrid de Castella T: (03) 9531 6575 Membership Relations & E: [email protected] Impressum Building Management Support ‘Edelweiss’ appears quarterly M: 0416 088 000 Groupe Romand du Victoria in March, June, September and E: [email protected] President: Rémy Favre December. Circulation 500. 1 Hughes Street, Malvern East Vic 3145 Antony Anderson T: (03) 9571 2835, M: 0412 135 095 For all enquiries contact: Building Management E: [email protected] Roland Isler, Editor M: 0416 069 666 W: www.swiss.org.au/chfrvic T: (03) 9524 6335 (B), E: [email protected] M: 0412 935 565 E: [email protected] Damian Schaller Unless otherwise stated, postal Marketing Manager address for all is: 89 Flinders Lane, 67 St Georges Crescent M: 0410 461 364 Melbourne Vic 3000 Heatherton Vic 3202 E: [email protected] www.swissclubvic.com.au 3 President’s Message Dear members and friends I trust you had time to come along to the Swiss Festival in of the Swiss Club, March. It was again a well organised and lovely day out, showcasing what Switzerland has to offer here in Victoria. Didn’t we have a lovely Thank you to all the performers and volunteers, but especially autumn this year? The colours to the organising committee; Rolf, Damian, Chantal, Bruno, of the turning leaves were so Patrick, Thomas, Melinda and Roger. Year after year, they spend much more intense than other a lot of time and energy to get this event of the ground. Well years. Usually most trees just done and many thanks from all of us at the Swiss Club! turn from green to brown, but this year there were so many New activities, groups and events are always welcome . We shades of yellow and red in between. Do I guess correctly that are here to support, so if you have an idea, please feel free to it is due to all the rain we had this year? It reminds me very approach us with a plan. One such idea, which has been in much of Switzerland and ‘Altweibersommer’ (Indian Summer). the planning stage for a while, is now ready to take off; Social With autumn inevitable comes also Winter. Time to rug up and afternoons on the Second Floor, 3-4 times a year. All members turn towards more heart and limb warming activities such as a are welcome. We start with a comedy and a chat for the first hearty Swiss meal at the Swiss Club or joining one of our other one on Thursday, 21 June at 1.30pm – see details on page club activities. With winter, we are also approaching the biggest 11. As it is a new event, we look forward to input from the day on the Swiss Club Calendar: 1st August - Swiss National members attending. Please come along, get involved, make Day. The club is running its usual festivities with the Seniors new friends. National Day Luncheon (31/7), the Lantern Procession and the Look after yourselves during the colder months. The committee evening festivities in the club restaurant on 1st August. Make and I look forward to seeing you at one of our functions. sure you book your spot early and directly with the restaurant. Barbara Kündig - President Happy birthday to the following members who were celebrating their milestone birthdays recently: Michael Dardel Jessop, Anna Langenegger, Dorina Meda and Roy Rogers could commemorate their 80th, while Mary Schibli, Gwen Eckhardt and John Staubli celebrated their 90th. We congratulate you and wish you good health in many years to come! Congratulations to our founding member Welcome to our new members Gwen Eckhardt who is celebrating her We warmly welcome Jeffrey Kershaw, Muriel Portier, 90th Birthday. From all members of the Sylvie Eggertswyler, Lewis Johnson, Jacqueline dance group, best wishes for many more Kirsten, Terence Wheeler, Rebecca Wheeler, Jürg von healthy and happy years. Sylvia Hochuli Känel, Sophie Petoud, Chris Villani, Lisa Cochrane, Nathan Cochrane, Alexandra Ilievska, Vivienne Get well Larcombe and Rob Ruxton. Best wishes for a speedy recovery to member Ros de Castella We are looking forward to meeting you at one of our who underwent the first of 2 knee replacements on 19 March. forthcoming functions. Béatrice Delacrétaz has had a bad fall and had to spend Congratulations some time in hospital. We wish you a speedy recovery. Congratulations to our Honorary Life Members Trudi and Dear members, please tell the committee or the editor if your Marcel Theiler on their 60th wedding anniversary. Enjoy your partner, your friends or fellow members have a reason to ‘honeymoon’ trip to Africa and your summer in Switzerland. celebrate, are unwell or have left for a better place. Our best wishes to you on this very special anniversary. We look forward to seeing you at the club again in October. I wish to advise that Corinne has gone on leave, she is Congratulations to Christian Schwärzler for competing in expecting her baby in a few weeks. My daughter Renee the Ironman Asia Pacific Championship on 25 March. Christian will be looking after you at the restaurant during that time. was placed 964 out of almost 1,800 athletes that took part in Roger Moullet this grueling triathlon competition. Not bad for a 48 year old! 4 Swiss Club of Victoria Hans Ochsenbein Farewell to the Swiss On 1 November, 2011 we Ambassador mourned the passing of Swiss Club Honorary Life member Hans Rudolph Ochsenbein. Hans was very fond of and loyal to his Swiss heritage; a characteristic important for a strong Swiss Club. A keen regular at the Club and club functions, Hans embodied the adventurous Swiss spirit that sends many Swiss to foreign shores like Australia. Born on 9 November, 1926 while the family resided in Meiringen for his civil engineer father to work on the On Friday, 16 March a farewell cocktail party was held at the Swiss Club for the Swiss Ambassador to Australia, Dr Daniel Grimselsee. Hans’ studies of electrical engineering took Woker and his wife Myriam. The event was well attended and him to Venezuela from 1954 to 1961. An adventure many members of the Swiss Community took the opportunity interrupted by a return to Switzerland to recover from to say good-bye to the Ambassador and his wife who are polio and marry Honorary Life member Erika Ochsenbein. returning to Switzerland after their four-year engagement in Hans embraced the challenges offered by the Swiss Australia. This was the last ambassadorial posting for Dr Woker military and finished his service as a Grenadier 1st as he will leave the Foreign Service to take up an academic Lieutenant (Oberleutnant). His fitness would later help assignment. The Ambassador and Mrs Woker visited the Swiss ensure his survival from polio and then open heart Club several times during their stay in Australia and were surgery at St Vincent Hospital Melbourne (SVHM) in 1983. always very welcome guests. Hans helped found HeartBeat SVHM for former patients to raise funds to buy equipment requested by St Vincent’s. After completing a scoping tour of Australia for Buhler AG (Uzwil) in 1964, Hans arrived in Melbourne by ship in August 1965, with Erika already expecting their first child, to assist Buhler’s local agent. Companies like Buhler have been great conduits for Swiss Club members to make their way to Melbourne. Hans helped found the Club’s Swiss School with the then Consul; becoming its 1st convenor in 1973. For many years Hans also quietly served as secretary of the Australian Die Casting Association. Hans is missed by his wife Erika, brother Peter, three sons and their partners and three young grandchildren. Simon Ochsenbein Newsletter Deadlines 2012 September Issue: Covering Sept/Oct/ Nov Editorial Deadline: Monday, 6 August Mailing: Wednesday, 22 August December Issue: Covering Dec/Jan/Feb 2013 Editorial Deadline: Monday, 5 November Mailing: Wednesday, 21 November www.swissclubvic.com.au 5 From front page Commission (VMC), Victorinox, V-Zug, Walmas Meat & Smallgoods. Our latest attraction is worth a special mention – for the Entertainers and performers: (in order of appearance) first time Walmas Meats & The Swiss Companion Singers, Chris Thalmann & Markus Smallgoods from Bayswater Zihlmann (both Schwyzerörgeli), Tom Webb (Flag waiving, (Vic) took part in the festival Singing Saw, Washboard and Spoons), Ursula & Peter Arnold and dressed up one of the (The Swiss Kiwi Yodlers from Auckland New Zealand), Phillip stalls with Swiss paraphernalia. Margrit Hasler, the owner of Nadvesnik & Beat Stuber (Accordion, Guitar), Renee Moullet Walmas, was selling all time Swiss favorites such as Landjäger, (singer), Jessica Plattner (singer/piano), the Consul General Mohrenköpfe, Ragusa, Swiss Flags and much more with great of Switzerland Mr Markus Meli, Swiss Folk Dance Group skill and ardour to the excitement of visitors. Visit her shop in Alpenrose, Swiss Yodel Choir Matterhorn, the Australian Swiss Bayswater when you need to stock up on Swiss goodies! Search Dog Association (ASSDA), Our guest of honour was the official representative of Swiss community groups in Victoria: (in alphabetical Switzerland, the Consul General of Switzerland Mr Markus order) Meli who delivered a well versed address. The Swiss Festival Groupe Romand du Victoria, Ladies Luncheon, Swiss Academic Committee would like to thank Mr Meli for offering the festival Network Melbourne (SAAN), Swiss Club of Victoria, Swiss wine. Companion Singers, Swiss Folk Dance Group Alpenrose, A very attractive pool of prizes ensured multiple sales of raffle Swiss Yodel Choir Matterhorn, Swiss-Australian Chamber tickets, lucky dip and guessing competition, with Mr Tom of Commerce & Industry (SACCI), The Swiss Diners Club, Surbeck being the lucky winner of a seven night voucher for Trachtengruppe Schwyzergruess (Australian/Swiss Cultural two in an Interlaken Hotel inclusive of a six days ski or summer Society), Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA). pass courtesy of Switzerland Tourism (RRP $1,800). I would also like to thank my enthusiastic friends in the On behalf of the Swiss Festival committee, I would like to thank committee: the host Austrian Club, the many volunteers, entertainers and sponsors who contributed immensely to the success and with Treasurer/Deputy Chair – Bruno Giger their time and effort made this event possible. I am happy Volunteers Coordinator – Chantal Imbach to report that we made a profit which will be equally shared Marketing – Damian Schaller among all actively involved Swiss community groups. PR consultant – Melinda Varley Logistics/sponsorship – Patrick Albert Sponsors: (in alphabetical order) Sponsorship Consultant in Switzerland – Thomas Schmocker BMC, Captain’s Lodge International, Consulate General of Food & Beverage Coordinator – Roger Moullet Switzerland/ Embassy of Switzerland, DKSH, Felco, Georg Fischer, Henkell Brothers, Herbert Schwärzler, Hilti, Iwan Ilya Meyer, Planning for the Swiss Festival 2013 has already commenced. King Island Dairy, Laurastar, Lindt, Mövenpick, Océ, SBS German Date and place will be announced at a later stage. We hope to Radio, Schaller Consulting, Silvers Circus, Société Générale de see you again next year! Surveillance (SGS), Swiss International Air If you wish to relive the Swiss Festival, Lines, Swissôtel Sydney, Switzerland Tourism, download pictures or find out more The Swatch Group, The Swiss Club of Victoria please visit www.swissfestival.com.au & Roger Moullet, Victorian Multicultural Please feel free to send us your feedback, the Swiss Festival Committee is looking forward to hearing from you. Rolf Huber - Chairman Swiss Festival 6 Swiss Club of Victoria The poya paintings of Gruyère Poya is a style of traditional naïve folk painting developed simplicity hasn’t changed, it mustn’t lose its identity in a too in the Gruyère region. It is similar to the perhaps better decorative craft. They depict an idealized world, where no known ‘Täfeli-Malerei’ or ‘Senntumsmalerei’ of Appenzell and machinery, commercial aircraft or tourism infrastructure blights Toggenburg. the landscape – a call to embrace the slower pace of life. In spring, it’s time for the ascent to the mountain pastures with At Estavannens the first village festival, ‘The Estavannens Poya’ the herds. From 1800 onwards, simple paintings were created was organised in 1956 by the ‘Association Gruyérienne pour depicting this seasonal migration. These pictures painted by the le Costume et les Coutumes’ (Gruyerian Society for Costumes ‘armaillis’ (herdsmen) are called ‘poya’. and Customs). It commemorated the 75th anniversary of Originally, poya was an inventory of the herd, painted during the publication in 1851, of ‘La montée à l’alpage’ by Étienne the procession up to the mountain pastures; painting took the Fragnière, a poem about the ascent to the mountain pastures. place of writing. Then they were hung on the front walls or over The festival has since been repeated several times - in 1960, the windows of farmhouses as a sign of prosperity. About 800 1966, 1976, 1989 and 2000. The next Poya festival will be held of them have been counted in the Gruyère region. in 2013. Modern artists are inspired by these old paintings. Poya painting is art, but not a personal form of art. It is art that Alte Freundschaften belongs not to the artist, but to the region. Modern poya painting is no longer an inventory, but its expression and Drei Schulkameraden, die zusammen alt geworden sind, verabredeten sich im Laufe ihrer Freundschaft immer wieder zu einem gemeinsamen Ausgang. Mit 30 sagten sie: “Kommt, wir gehen in den Ochsen, da hat es eine hübsche neue Serviertochter!” Mit 40 sagten sie: ”Kommt, wir gehen in den Ochsen, da hat es einen Fernseher für das Länderspiel!” Mit 50 sagten sie: ”Kommt, wir gehen in den Ochsen, da hat es gutes Essen!“ Mit 60 sagten sie: ”Kommt, wir gehen in den Ochsen, da hat es guten Wein!“ Mit 70 sagten sie: ”Kommt, wir gehen in den Ochsen, da hat es einen Lift in den ersten Stock!“ Mit 80 sagten sie: ”Kommt, wir gehen in den Ochsen, da waren wir noch nie!“ www.swissclubvic.com.au 7 Echo Helvetia Ursula Schappi, the presenter of the SBS German language SwissCommunity is a free, high-quality platform program ‘Echo Helvetia’, has serving the Swiss who are, have been or will be retired after more than three residents abroad, as well as those who are interested decades of outstanding service in Switzerland worldwide. – not only to SBS Radio – but also to the Swiss community in Aims Melbourne and Sydney. Her last SwissCommunity.org is a networking site enabling Swiss broadcast was on Sunday, 12 people living all over the world to establish links with each February. other. The site also allows them to participate actively in We thank Ursula for her debates on politics and society in our country. tremendous work and Dialogue with the ‘Fifth Switzerland’ commitment and wish her all the best in her retirement. SwissCommunity’s forum discussions facilitate a dialogue between both Swiss people living abroad and those living The new presenter of ‘Echo Helvetia’, which is an in Switzerland, and makes it possible for members of our indispensable source of news, diaspora to make their voices heard in Switzerland. The information and entertainment diverse discussion topics cover everything from politics to for many Swiss, is Adrian Plitzco. Swiss traditions to questions concerning expatriation. Adrian is well known as a Networking presenter for the SBS German language program and as an The platform’s 11,000 members can contact each other author of adult fiction in German interactively on the Internet, which develops solidarity (Der harte Engel) children’s between expats, regardless of where they live in the world. audio books (Lancelot - The one It is also a way of keeping in contact with Swiss people armed Kangaroo and Pirate – living in Australia. The barking Kookaburra) – all of Promotion of Swiss associations which have been featured in the ‘Edelweiss’. And, of course, he is The section ‘Local Communities’ enables Swiss Swiss – a prerequisite to host the program as it is all spoken in associations to present themselves and find new audiences. Swiss-German. Stay informed about events in Switzerland Regrettably, due to financial and staffing pressures, the program The ‘News’ section of SwissCommunity.org provides has been reduced to 15 minutes. It is hoped that this decision will easily accessible information on events taking place be reversed back to 30 minutes. in Switzerland. There you will find current news from Please listen to the new format ‘Echo Helvetia’ every Sunday from swissinfo.ch and will be able to read the ‘Swiss Review’ 8.45pm to 9pm on 93.1fm. online. Strengthen ties with Switzerland New record on the Eiger The section ‘Explore Switzerland’ gives access to Dani Arnold has set a new speed record on the Eiger North information on various topics such as the politics, economy, Face, climbing up the famous face in just 2 hours, 28 minutes. tourism and culture of Switzerland and its 26 cantons. The 27-year old Swiss climber shaved 20 minutes off the What’s more… previous record, set by compatriot Ueli Steck back in 2008. On SwissCommunity.org, you will find lots of other The Eiger North Face is one of the best known and most information such as: dangerous climbing destinations in the world, to-date 64 s 4HE CURRENT ADDRESSES OF 3WISS REPRESENTATION mountaineers have perished in the attempt. Standing 3970 organisations abroad. meters in height, the mountain was first climbed back in 1858, s 4HE ‘SwissCommunity Online Magazine’ intended although the North Face wasn’t conquered until 1938. It took solely for members of the platform. the better part of two days to complete that climb, which makes it all the more amazing that modern climbers do it in just 2.5 hours. No word yet on if Ueli will attempt to reclaim the record. Planning your private or business After all, he is a bit busy in the Himalaya at the moment. The function? The Second Floor is the extreme mountaineer will attempt a new or difficult Everest perfect venue! Contact 1300 893 968 line rather than the standard South Col route. He’ll also forego the use of supplementary oxygen on the world’s highest peak. for information & bookings. 8 Swiss Club of Victoria Climbing High The Swiss undoubtedly have an affinity with mountaineering. Their eyes glow with excitement at the prospect of an adventurous climb – be it through deep powder snow or lush Alpine meadows. Rumour has it that this passion for scaling even the highest summits developed, because the Swiss wanted to catch a glimpse of the sea at least once in their lifetime. Yet, overcoming hundreds of meters of altitude just for a bird’s eye view is not an undertaking for the faint-hearted. It is thus hardly surprising that the Swiss should be at the forefront of cable car technology. While early systems were built to transport goods and materials rather than people, the rise of the middle class and the leisure industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries let to the development of cable cars for public use. The new technology saved time and energy and came as a great relief to those poor men who had to carry the rich – and the lazy – up Jesus Christ, was buried in the lake. According to the legend, the hills on their backs. horrible thunderstorms erupted in all places where people had tried to bury him, thus leaving a remote place in the mountains One of the most impressive and oldest cable cars in Switzerland as the only option. Lake Oberalp was the chosen location. And is the Pilatus cogwheel railway from Alpnachstad to Pilatus so it happened that the region of Luzern was hit by terrible Kulm at 2,132 metres above sea level. With a gradient of up to thunderstorms whenever the water of Lake Oberalp was 48%, it is the steepest cog railway in the world. disturbed. A tall order While the legend of the grave of the notorious Roman judge Many people thought that Zürich-based Eduard Locher-Freuler certainly made for a good story, the name ‘Pilatus’ actually (1840 -1910) was crazy, when he proposed to build a 4,618 derives from the Latin ‘Mons Pileatus’, which means capped metre long railway line up the steep sides of Mount Pilatus mountain’. near Luzern. But the engineer had devised a unique track Other tales tell of both good and evil dragons, which lived system that would ensure the locomotives could not derail in the furrowed crevices of Luzern’s most famous and feared even at such an extreme gradient. This system featured a flat mountain. One of these legends dates back to 1421 and bar with symmetrical, horizontal teeth on the sides rather speaks of an encounter between a dragon and a man named than on the top of the rail to engage the cogwheels of the Stempflin. Stempflin passed out when the beast landed right locomotive. Thanks to this revolutionary system, the railway next to him. When he awoke, he found a lump of coagulated now masters 1,629 metres of altitude in just 4.6 kilometres. blood and a dragon stone with healing powers. It took 20 engineers and more than 700 workers – 600 of The chronicle of Petermann Etterlin tells how Regional which were Italians – to construct the railway in just 400 Governor Winkelried killed one of the Mount Pilatus dragons. days. Operation commenced on 4 June 1889 with a steam He supposedly first injured it with a spear wrapped in locomotive. The following year, a hotel was built at the Pilatus thorn twigs and then finished off the beast with his sword. Kulm station, featuring a large sun terrace with stunning Unfortunately, Winkelried died as well. Drops of poisonous panoramic views. Locher was proven right, as the number of dragon blood splattered on his hand and the poisonous breath annual visitors rose to 50,000 by 1906. In 1937, the steam of the dying dragon made Winkelried’s blood freeze. engine was replaced with modern electric railcars, which could accommodate 40 instead of only 32 passengers. The new In the early hours of the morning of 26 May 1499, a wondrous system also shortened the descent by 30 minutes to a mere 40 spectacle was seen in Luzern: after a terrible thunderstorm, an minutes. enormous, wingless dragon rose out of the wild waters of the River Reuss at the Spreuer bridge. The beast had probably been Today, up to 550,000 visitors travel up to Mount Pilatus taken by surprise by the thunderstorm and washed down from onboard the cogwheel railway every year to marvel at the Mount Pilatus in the Krienbach, which flows into the Reuss exceptional scenery high above the Vierwaldstättersee. beneath the Jesuit church. Several well-respected and educated Stories to tell townspeople authenticated the truth of this story. Despite the views, the popularity of Mount Pilatus and its These days, the dragons seem to prefer to hide in their caves. cogwheel railway was not always a given – after all, the Instead one can marvel at the previously extinct Alpine ibex, mountain used to have a bad reputation. which was reintroduced to the region in 1961. Or if you have In the Middle Ages, people believed that lake Oberalp on the some of that Swiss mountaineering spirit in you, you can climb Pilatus massif was the cause for devastating storms, because up to the summit of Mount Pilatus, where you are sure to catch Pontius Pilate, the judge said to have ordered the crucifixion of a glimpse of the ocean somewhere in the far, far distance. www.swissclubvic.com.au 9 In Swiss-German dialects it occurs in various forms, including Making sense of the sappermänt, sackerlänt, safferemänt and sapperemost, and can also be used in combinations like potz sapperlot! or sapperlot language confusion abenand! The exhibition is open from 8 March to 25 August, 2012 It’s astonishing that the Swiss can understand each other. Not only do they have four languages, but well over half of them Listen also to the audio ‘Do you speak Swiss?’ on swissinfo: (the Swiss-Germans) speak one way and write another. http://www.swissinfo.ch/eng/multimedia/audios_podcast/ Switzerland is at the intersection of three major European Do_you_speak_Swiss.html?autoPlay=y&view=podcastDetail&ci cultures – German, French and Italian – and the only language d=32350358 it can truly call its own, Romansh, is spoken by less than 0.5% of the population. Want a taste of Switzerland? Visit the Swiss Club Restaurant Swiss-Germans, about two thirds of the population, write in High-German but speak a plethora of different dialects that are vastly different from High-German. Whilst mutually understandable, each of these dialects has its own strong local colour. The 35,000 speakers of Romansh are divided between five ‘idioms’, each with its own dialects. In some parts of Ticino there is a difference from one village to the next. Language is a topic of endless fascination to the Swiss. Swiss- Customised English Written and Oral German radio has a popular programme, ‘Schnabelweid’, where Communication Skills for Professionals. listeners can ask about the meaning and origins of words. ‘Da Num e da Pum’ in Romansh explores the derivations of s "USINESS 7RITING 3KILLS names, and Swiss-Italian radio often talks about the dialects s 3PEAKING 3KILLS of Ticino and the neighboring areas of Italy in its ‘La domenica s !USTRALIAN 7ORKPLACE )NDUCTIONS popolare’ programme. ‘Intré-No’ on Radio Fribourg is a weekly s )N #OMPANY #ONSULTANCY programme in Swiss-French dialect ‘Patois’. s /NLINE 3OLUTIONS A new exhibition at the National Library in Bern called ‘Sapperlot!’ takes a closer look at the language landscape of 4EL %MAIL INFO SOLUTIONSLINGUACOM Switzerland. It draws on the rich phonogram archive held at www.solutionslingua.com Zürich University, on the archives of the scholarly dictionaries of the four Swiss languages, and on the written holdings of the National Library itself. Book the Second Floor at the Swiss Club for your next function “Half the audios are ! historic, and the other ! half are contemporary... We wanted to present Last tango for Hazy ! a colourful potpourri,” Hazy Osterwald, one ! explains co-curator Peter of the best known Erismann. Swiss Jazz and Swing ! The four-language musician and composer ! exhibition has a four- of the post-war period, language title: has past away on ! German: Sapperlot! Sunday, 26 February, ! French: Sacredouble! one week after Italian: Sacarlòtu! celebrating his 90th ! Romansh: Sapperlottas! birthday. ! A toned-down swear In 1944 he founded the legendary Hazy-Osterwald-Sextett. " ! word, it is now a The band achieved world-wide fame in 1958 with the song somewhat archaic and ‘Kriminaltango’. Other big successes included ‘Konjunktur Cha- ! ! light-hearted exclamation Cha’ (1960) and ‘Der Fahrstuhl nach oben ist besetzt’ (1966). of surprise, admiration, The band was also very successful in accompanying stars like annoyance etc. It derives Udo Jürgens, Caterina Valente, Bibi Johns, Gilbert Bécaud or from the word for Sacha Distel. sacrament in the four The Hazy-Osterwald-Sextett performed its farewell concert in languages. Montreux in 1979. 10 Swiss Club of Victoria Defining ‘Swissness’ Second Floor Club Social: Switzerland is well-known for the traditional Swiss values of democracy, punctuality, efficiency, first class service and precision. It is also renowned for its wonderful mountains, Movie Afternoon chocolates and Swiss Army knives. But did you know that L’original… ‘Swissness’ is now a contemporary trendy brand and marketing tool that companies are using to their advantage to sell products ? What attributes are they aiming for? It is above all the concepts of naturalness, multiculturalness, fairness, neutrality and the reliability of that quintessential Swissness that the companies are flagging so successfully. However, when Swissair - a company that embodied Switzerland and everything Swiss - was grounded in 2001, the Swiss brand suffered a deep shock and crush in reputation. Everyone thought the Swiss reputation had been ruined for good. The effect was so far reaching that an international study was launched in 2008 into reviewing the Swiss brand called ‘Swissness Worldwide’ and was led by the University of St.Gallen. The findings were published in 2010 and found that Swissness was associated worldwide with high-end products, with beautiful landscape and scenery and also with traditional values. But the researchers also found some negative connotations associated with Swissness, maybe a trail of the Swissair crash, maybe more to do with the Swiss way. These included concepts such as: unfriendliness, cold, reserve, distance, political neutrality, even political disinterest, high prices and strange financial pacts as the main concerns. Within the study, Switzerland was often compared with Japan or Germany in terms of output and efficiency, but never with any other European country. They also found Switzerland to be synonymous with top performance be it with regards to watches, the finance world, cleanliness or in terms of building quality. All traits to be proud of. So what is this strange mix of positive and negative attributes – what is Swissness all about and how is it any good when marketing a product? As a country, Switzerland boasts a diverse cultural folk and this migration can be interpreted as a reference to a certain world openness and this would therefore explain why Switzerland is also well known for being a country of innovation. Pocket Thursday, 21 June, 1.30pm knives were invented here, the Swatch watch and car, and of course, the Red Cross and the World Wide Web, to name but a Swiss Club, 2nd floor few. The Swiss are known for having a very comprehensive and For bookings please ring Rita Schwärzler-Abbt on top quality health system, an intact and tight family unit and 9561 7811 or email [email protected] security. All positives in fact. or Barbara Kündig on 9005 4938 or email The discussion so far seems to reinforce the concept of [email protected] Swissness as being something very well definable and concrete, Cost: complementary, gold coin donation appreciated. but in fact it may much more equate to that non-definable, non-specific success and the economic success and passion Afternoon tea or coffee can be bought for a minimal in particular that is so typically Swiss and maybe it is that amount. which sells so well and not the cows in the meadows or the If you like to have a hearty lunch before, ring Roger at the chocolates which are rather superficial after all – or are they? Swiss Club on 9650 1196. Please bring a friend(s) for a fun film afternoon and a chat and discussion after. Login and get the latest info: www.swissclubvic.com www.swissclubvic.com.au 11 glimpse of the Meet Franz & Pat Doos chemical and pharmaceutical Franz and Patricia, thank you for inviting me into your industry, which lovely home. You can look back over more than half a became the century of Swiss Club life and you are, of course, well cornerstone of my known to the older generation of club members. Your later activities. contemporaries would perhaps find similarities in the Just diverting experiences you have made in coming to Australia in the from your 50s. Younger members, such as myself, listen to these working career stories with great interest because it allows us to draw for a second, comparisons with our own experiences and wonder how what else different many things were then. How were your early happened during years in Switzerland? that time? I was born in 1931 in a little place called Gerliswil, near Well, I joined the Emmen, about five kilometres from Luzern. I am the oldest of Swiss Club in 1956 four boys. My dad worked for von Moos steel works were he and both Pat and I became a specialist in wire drawing. I went to primary and became regular visitors to the club. secondary school in Emmenbrücke. Later on my family moved to Kastanienbaum near Horw were dad had a poultry farm for Pat: And we got married and our son Peter was born in 1957. egg production. After completing my school years, I started a Looks like things moved along very quickly. What came 3-year commercial diploma in Luzern with one of the largest next? grain importers in Switzerland. Finishing this I, like most lads A most defining point was, of course, when I set-up my own of my age, had to spend the obligatory time in the army. And business Medos Equipment, also in 1957, together with my then I moved to Basel, were I got my first job with Natural AG, partner Dr K. Weiner. Our initial product line consisted of a shipping company. I stayed there for about a year and then medical-surgical instruments and consumables and selling got a job with Panalpina as an accountant. The job required took place in doctor’s surgeries and hospitals. The business me to move to different branches, wherever an accountant expanded rapidly and so did the range of products we were was needed, and so I had the opportunity to spend some time marketing. These included laboratory products and Wild in St.Gallen and in Chiasso. And finally they transferred me to microscopes of Heerbrugg, Switzerland. By 1969 we opened the biggest branch in Zürich but I just couldn’t stand the boss. our Sydney branch and employed around 16 staff. So I left Panalpina after a couple of years and went back to 1969 was also the year that you joint the committee. It’s Basel where I got a new job with NCR (National Cash Register a little unusual that you took on the role of president Company). without having served on the committee prior to this. As a Luzerner, did you feel comfortable living in Basel? Pat: I think I can answer this. The club wasn’t doing too well Yes I did. Besides I had an uncle in Basel and two cousins financially and that is why Franz was asked to step in. Franz is with whom I got along very well. I had a room on an exceptionally good businessman, as the success of Medos Blauensteinerstrasse which was close enough to be able to Equipment proved. He was able to apply his experience to help walk to work. sort out the club’s troubles. When and why did you come to Australia? Franz: There was also another reason. The club received an offer I had ‘itchy feet’ and I wanted to travel. Originally I intended to from an interested party to buy the club premises at 161 Spring go to Canada, but they were looking for trades people whereas Street. I immediately saw a great opportunity in this for the Australia was also looking for business people and as NCR had club and went about setting-up a sub-committee to manage a subsidiary in Melbourne, I had a job waiting for me. I arrived this. It was decided to do a swap for another building rather in Melbourne on a Friday in November 1955 and was picked-up than selling outright. We looked at several properties, including at the pier by the NCR office manager Mr Frances who took me one at Jolimont, but eventually we decided on 22 George out to dinner at ‘Marios’ where I had the biggest steak I had Parade. Swiss tradesmen then renovated the old brick-building ever seen. I started work the next Monday as a clerk and yes, and I went to the Licensing Court to have the Liquor Licence I was the only male who could touch type – somewhat of a transferred...not many Swiss, if any, would recall that but for novelty in 1955. me it was the best thing I ever did for the Club and I’m still Was it easy for you to settle in Australia? quietly proud of what we achieved at the time. Yes, I settled in very easily. My English was not as good as it is And after the job was done, you left the committee. today but it was fluent and not long after my arrival I met my During my presidency my company became involved in a new dear wife Pat, and that really sealed it. I had a good job and business partnership with a US company from Cleveland/Ohio was well looked after. I stayed with NCR for a couple of years and it made it impossible for me to continue in a meaningful when I met Oscar Nicolet. He was the manager of H.H. Buckley, manner at the Swiss Club. Yes, my job was done and I left the then agent for Sandoz, and when he offered me to become the committee, but we continued to frequent the club and in his assistant, I jumped at the opportunity. Now I gained a particular we loved to play golf with our Swiss Club friends. 12 Swiss Club of Victoria We had some good times with Joe and Marie Schibli down at Red Hill. What about you Pat? How were you involved in the business and the Swiss Club? I had a young family to look after, three children by then. Our two daughters, Carolyn and Andrea were born in 1959 and 1966. As the business grew, I saw myself taking on the entertaining side of the business, organising dinners for The Swiss Club Doubles Championship was held on customers and so forth. I kept being involved with the Swiss 16 March. Club on the ball committee for about six years and in 1979 I John O’Reilly and Greg Gibbs triumphed over Adrian joined the committee for a year. Besley and Peter Raschle. Congratulations to the winners! Franz: And during this time, the business continued to mushroom. We had branches and distribution network in The 2012 dates to mark in your diary are: all mainland states and for about at year in Auckland, New s *UNE "ERNARD 3ANDOZ #UP Zealand. At one stage Medos employed over 130 personnel. s 4"# 3WISS #LUB 3INGLES #HAMPIONSHIP And what happened eventually, did you sell the business Cost: Only $20 per person which includes dinner. to retire? Bookings are essential, please ring Roger at the Swiss Pat: We were in business for a long, long time, and eventually Club or myself on 9439 7593 or 0418 645 313. our son Peter took over as Managing Director in 1993 and New players are always welcome! Franz moved into the back-room as Chairman. Louis Schneider Franz: We went to Europe for three months for a well-deserved holiday in 1996 and when we came back Peter died tragically in a diving accident. That was a terrible, terrible blow to us and to the whole family. For the business, it meant I had to stay on a little longer but eventually we sold it in 1998. If you would be on the committee now, what would you change? Pat and I have very little opportunity to frequent the club these days. We love to go to the Senior Christmas and National Day lunches and catch-up with old friends we haven’t seen for a while. So, we really couldn’t say what it is that we would change, if anything at all. If you could invite five people, living or dead, to dinner, who would they be? Franz & Pat: Our dear son Peter and our Swiss Club friends that have already left – Max and Stephanie Amman, Marcel Seuret, Walter Hauser – we miss them all. Celebrate Switzerland’s 721th birthday! Thank you both very much! National Day Family Picnic Gembrook Sports Ground - Melway map 312 F9 Sunday, 5 August from 11.00am to 4.00pm Official Celebration at 2pm Admission free – Easy parking – Plenty of shelter Das wöchentliche Radioprogram über alles Schweizerische in Australien, der Schweiz und der Welt. Eine Viertelstunde Come and enjoy the traditional Swiss family picnic to celebrate Aktuelles, Musik, Reportagen und Interviews auf this special day! Schweizerdeutsch mit Adrian Plitzco. Grilled Sausages – Nussgipfel – Glühwein Jeden Sonntag von 20:45 bis 21Uhr auf 93.1fm Bonfire – Folkloristic Music and Songs SBS HOTLINE (03) 9949 2191 www.sbs.com.au/yourlanguage/german/highlight/page/id/204967/t/Echo-Helvetia A special occasion for children – bring your Lampions! Organised by the Matterhorn Society www.swissclubvic.com.au 13 3WISS .ATIONAL $AY ,ANTERN 0ROCESSION ,AMPIONPARADE Wednesday, 1 August, 2012 at 6pm for 6.15pm start. Must RSVP and PREPAY (no exceptions) by 25 July, 2012 via Where: Federation Square, near the big screen. our website swissclubvic.com EFT BSB: 013-375, Our lantern procession will start at Federation Square at Account: 3536 82406 6.15pm. We will walk along the Yarra River and end at the **Please state the event and Second Floor of the Swiss Club of Victoria. your name in the Remarks Field!** Bring your own lantern (bought or homemade), flags, bells etc. (lanterns with candles or batteries only, no flammable Cheques made out to Swiss liquids). Club of Victoria send to 89 Flinders Lane, Parents are responsible for their children at all times. Melbourne VIC 3000). Cash or Credit Card pay at the Members: Children free. Non-members: Children $5.00 Club Refreshments will be served for the children only For more information contact Parents have the option of purchasing drinks at the Barbara on 9005 4938 or email restaurant bar. [email protected] 14 Swiss Club of Victoria The Rütli Oath National Day Celebration The Rütli oath (Rütlischwur) is first mentioned by Hans at the Club Schriber in the ‘White Book of Sarnen’ in 1470. Its Wednesday, 1 August, 7pm canonical form is that of the 16th century ‘Chronicon Get into the swing with our famous Helveticum’ of Aegidius ‘Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand’! Tschudi. Tschudi dates the 3-course menu with Coffee & Tea event to 8 November, 1307. The building of Switzerland Members - $35.00 per person as a federal state in the first Non-members - $40.00 per person half of the 19th century Drinks at bar prices (1803-1848) revived Reservations essential. symbols of the period of Book early on 9650 1196 growth of the old Swiss confederacy in the Late Johann Heinrich Füssli, 1780 Middle Ages, including the legends of William Tell and Arnold Winkelried and the Rütli oath. Patriotic songs such as National Day the ‘Sempacherlied’ as well as Schiller’s play had an important position and shooting competitions became an important Senior Members’ Luncheon symbol of the common cause and military readiness. After Tuesday, 31 July, 12 noon the establishment of the federal state, the Rütli oath became associated with the Swiss Federal Charter (Bundesbrief), a For Swiss Club Members born 1942 and earlier document dated to the beginning of August 1291. This choice The Committee of the Swiss Club of Victoria has much pleasure was not straightforward, as it went against Tschudi’s date of in inviting you to celebrate Swiss National Day 2012 with a 1307, and historians could enumerate a total of 82 similar Luncheon at the Swiss Club. documents of the period of 1251 to 1386. The decision was motivated pragmatically, as the modern Swiss capital of Bern Please fill in the form below and mail to Rita Schwärzler-Abbt, was going to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the city’s 18 Hertford Cres. Wheelers Hill 3150 no later than 24 July. foundation in 1891 and it was convenient to place the 600th For Information, please ring: anniversary of the confederacy in the same year. Especially in Sylvia Hochuli: 9531 6575 or Rita Schwärzler-Abbt: 9561 7811 central Switzerland, the opportunistic re-dating of the event was resented, and the Rütli oath continued to be dated to 1307 Cost: Complimentary for members, non-members $40.00 well into the 20th century. Accordingly, the 600th anniversary Payment to be enclosed with application. of the Confederation was celebrated again in 1907, this time in Altdorf. Yes, I would like to attend the Swiss Club It was only after the celebration of the 650th anniversary in National Day Senior Members’ Luncheon 2012 1941, seen as an important symbol of Swiss independence in times of war, that the date of 1291 became universally SCV Membership Card number(s): associated with the Rütli oath. The Swiss national holiday on 1 August marks the date of the Federal Charter, and thus the Rütli oath. Following a public vote on 26 September 1993, 1 August has been an official national holiday since 1994. Name(s): The three men who took the oath were according to Friedrich von Schillers drama ‘Wilhelm Tell’: Werner Stauffacher (Schwyz), Walter Fürst (Uri) and Arnold von Melchtal (Unterwalden) Address: – even though the White Book of Sarnen’ does not mention surnames! It simply says: «…und kamen also ihrer drei zusammen, der Stoupacher zu Schwyz, und einer der Fürsten Telephone: zu Uri und der aus Melche von Unterwalden, und klagte ein jeglicher dem anderen seine Not und seinen Kummer,…» More Email: likely they were the three Landamänner (Canton chiefs) of Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden; Konrad ab Yberg, Werner von Payment: ______x $40.00 = $______Attinghausen and Konrad von Wolffenschiessen. Today only the Complimentary for Swiss Club Members Ab Yberg family still exists. www.swissclubvic.com.au 15 From food of the gods to ultimate Swiss indulgence The earliest record of chocolate was over fifteen hundred years Chocolate moves Europe ago in the Central American rain forests, where the tropical mix Christopher Columbus noticed how valuable cocoa beans were of high rain fall combined with high year round temperatures to the Mayas when he captured one of their trading canoes off and humidity provide the ideal climate for cultivation of the present-day Honduras, but he investigated no further. It was plant from which chocolate is derived, the cacao tree. Hernán Cortéz, conqueror of the Aztec empire, that brought The cacao tree was worshipped by the Mayan civilisation of chocolate to Europe in 1528. By this time the conquistadors Central America and Southern Mexico, who believed it to be had learned to make the drink more palatable to European of divine origin. Cacao is a Mayan word meaning ‘God Food’ tastes by mixing the ground roasted beans with sugar and hence the tree’s modern generic Latin name ‘Theobrama vanilla (a practice still continued today), thus offsetting the Cacao’ meaning ‘Food of the Gods’. Cacao was corrupted into spicy bitterness of the brew the Aztec’s drank. the more familiar ‘cocoa’ by the early European explorers. The first chocolate factories opened in Spain, where the dried The Maya brewed a spicy, bittersweet drink by roasting and fermented beans brought back from the new world by the pounding the seeds of the cacao tree (cocoa beans) with maize Spanish treasure fleets were roasted and ground, and by and capsicum (chilli) peppers and letting the mixture ferment. the early 17th century chocolate powder - from which the This drink was reserved for use in ceremonies as well as for European version of the drink was made - was being exported drinking by the wealthy and religious elite, they also ate a to other parts of Europe. The Spanish kept the source of the cacao porridge. drink - the beans - a secret for many years, so successfully in fact, that when English buccaneers boarded what they thought was a Spanish ‘treasure galleon’ in 1579, only to find it loaded with what appeared to be ‘dried sheep’s droppings’, they burned the whole ship in frustration. If only they had known what treasure fell into their hands! Within a few years, the cocoa beverage made from the powder produced in Spain had become popular throughout Europe, in the Spanish Netherlands, Italy, France, Germany and - in about 1520 - it arrived in England. The first chocolate house in England opened in London in 1657 followed rapidly by many others. Like the already well- established coffee houses, they were used as clubs where the wealthy and business community met to smoke a clay pipe of tobacco, conduct business and socialise over a cup of chocolate. The Swiss chocolate success story The Aztecs of central Mexico also prized the beans, but because Heinrich Escher, mayor of Zürich, was introduced to chocolate the Aztec’s lived further north in more arid regions at higher in Brussels in 1697 and brought it back home, where it was altitudes, where the climate was not suitable for cultivation discreetly consumed at the feasts of the various guilds which of the tree, they had to acquire the beans through trade and/ ruled the city, until the Zürich Council banned it in 1722 as unfit or the spoils of war. The Aztecs prized the beans so highly for virtuous citizens (as it had a reputation as an aphrodisiac). they used them as currency - 100 beans bought a turkey or a Chocolate manufacture didn’t begin in Switzerland for well slave - and tribute or taxes were paid in cocoa beans to Aztec over another 100 years. In the 18th century, Italy became emperors. The Aztecs, like the Mayans, also enjoyed cacao as a a centre of confectionery and chocolate-making, drawing beverage fermented from the raw beans, which again featured practitioners from around Europe. Many ‘cioccolatieri’ from prominently in ritual and as a luxury available only to the very the Ticino (Val Blenio) and the Grisons who had learnt their wealthy. The Aztecs called this drink ‘Xocolatl’, the Spanish trade in Turin, Milan and Venice left home to work abroad, conquistadors found this almost impossible to pronounce and founding strongly family-oriented manufacturing businesses in so corrupted it to the easier ‘chocolat’. Amsterdam, Stockholm, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Strasburg, Nice, The Aztec’s regarded chocolate as an aphrodisiac and provider Paris, London, St.Petersburg, Copenhagen and elsewhere. Their of physical strengths and endurance. Emperor Montezuma know-how flowed back to Switzerland’s chocolate pioneers, reputedly drank it fifty times a day from a golden goblet and who gradually began to establish factories and shops. The first is quoted as saying of Xocolatl: “The divine drink, which builds chocolate shop in Switzerland opened in Bern in 1792 and up resistance and fights fatigue. A cup of this precious drink from these beginnings Switzerland turned into the Number One permits a man to walk for a whole day without food.” chocolate nation by the early 20th Century. In fact, the Aztec’s prized Xocolatl well above gold and silver One of these pioneers was François-Louis Cailler (1796- 1852) so much so, that when Montezuma was defeated by Hernán from Vevey. He learnt his craft in Turin. Upon his return to Cortéz in 1519 and the victorious ‘conquistadors’ searched his Switzerland, he opened a mechanised chocolate factory in palace for the Aztec treasury expecting to find gold and silver, Corsier-sur-Vevey in 1819. Although commercial success was all they found were huge quantities of cocoa beans. The Aztec a long time in coming, the young Cailler created the basis for treasury consisted, not of precious metals, but of cocoa beans. 16 Swiss Club of Victoria industrial-scale production figure in chocolate-making (the rotary grater for cocoa in eastern Switzerland. Like beans) and offered sixteen his father, a chocolatier different sorts of chocolate from Lugano, Maestrani with a variety of additional spent time in Lombardy ingredients, including (Milan) and later Nuremberg cinnamon and vanilla. Jacques learning the fine art of Foulquier (1799-1865) chocolate manufacturing. In began manually producing 1850, he opened a factory chocolate in Geneva in 1826. in Luzern, which he then His son-in-law and successor, moved to St.Gallen in 1859. Jean-Samuel Favarger, gave In 1874 another factory was the brand that is still famous established by Johann Georg today its name. Demand Munz in Flawil. grew, and by 1832 the canton Rudolf Lindt (1855-1909) of Vaud alone boasted opened a chocolate factory some 32 manual chocolate- in Bern in 1879. A born tinkerer, Lindt constantly improved making businesses. The first his mixing and grating machines until he had developed a steamships began operating, method for producing a soft-melting chocolate, which he called bringing yet more consumers. Tourism flourished. During the ‘chocolat surfin’. It was the first chocolate that melted in the reign of Queen Victoria, the horror stories that Lord Byron, the mouth, and signalled the birth of modern chocolate. Also in poet Shelley and his wife Mary (the author of ‘Frankenstein’) Bern, Jean Tobler (1830-1905) ran a confectionery shop in wrote on Lake Geneva in 1816 attracted the first English which he sold his own specialities alongside chocolate made by tourists. producers like Lindt. In 1899, he founded the Tobler chocolate Having trained as a confectioner under his brother in Bern, factory. We have his son Theodor to thank for inventing Philippe Suchard (1797-1884) from Boudry in the canton of Toblerone, the most famous of all Swiss chocolates, in 1908. Neuchâtel travelled to the United States in 1824, where he met The years 1890-1920 were the heyday of Switzerland’s many Swiss émigrés. In 1826, back in Neuchâtel, he opened a chocolate industry, as it earned a reputation far beyond the chocolate factory that became famous far beyond the country’s country’s borders. Tourism was booming, and members of borders. But the pioneering spirit that drove Philippe Suchard the international high society, who spent their holidays in was not confined solely to chocolate. It was he who introduced Switzerland, became the world’s ambassadors for Swiss steamships to Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Thun. He was also chocolate. Rudolf Lindt, for example, aimed his advertising interested in shipping along the River Rhine, traded in silk and at exclusive girls’ finishing schools in western Switzerland, macaroni, and was even involved in iron-ore mining in the US. where Europe’s crème de la crème gathered. This was an era A look at the industry in 1883 shows that Suchard accounted of phenomenal growth rates. From 1888 to 1910, the number for 50% of the chocolate produced in Switzerland. of chocolate producers rose from 13 to 23, and the number of In 1831, Charles Amédée Kohler (1790-1874), a wholesale people employed by the industry jumped from 528 to 5547. grocer who also sold cocoa, decided it made more sense to Whereas about 13 tonnes of chocolate were produced in open his own chocolate factory than to continue supplying 1905, this had already risen to 40,000 tonnes (three-quarters confectioners with the raw material. Just like Cailler and of which was exported) by 1918. Switzerland thus became Suchard, he constantly sought to refine the existing range of something of a chocolate superpower, and by 1912 it had chocolates. His most important creation was nut chocolate. The cornered 55% of the world’s chocolate export market. family-run firm trained several famous apprentices, including Export figures fell during the Depression years of the 1920s Rudolf Lindt (in 1872-1875) and Robert Frey (1880-1883). and 1930s, and it was only after the end of the Second World Daniel Peter (1836-1919), a son-in-law of F.-L. Cailler and War that the Swiss chocolate industry recovered and took off a close friend of Henri Nestlé, founded the Peter-Cailler again. In the 1950s, sales were still at around 26,000 tonnes, company in 1867. In 1875, he succeeded in mixing cocoa paste compared with 170,000 tonnes today, representing a turnover with condensed milk, thereby creating the world’s first milk of 1.7 billion Swiss francs. International competition forced the chocolate, which he dubbed ‘Gala Peter’. The result was so Swiss chocolate industry to streamline its production while at successful that the entire industry switched to this production the same time sticking to and further improving the tried-and method from 1880 onwards. Daniel Peter therefore played a tested recipes on which Swiss chocolate had built its excellent pivotal role in helping Swiss chocolate reach the supremacy it reputation. After all, why change a winning formula? enjoys today. Although chemist and pharmacist Henri Nestlé It once was food of the gods for the Mayan people, today for (1814-1890) did not produce chocolate himself, his company many in Europe, and especially in Switzerland, chocolate is was responsible for the global marketing of Peter’s milk part of the daily diet. With an estimated 12 kilos a year, not chocolate from 1904. surprisingly, the Swiss lead the world in chocolate consumption. The first chocolate factory in german-speaking Switzerland opened in 1845. Inspired by the experiments of Cailler and Suchard, Rudolf Sprüngli-Amman (1816-1897) developed a manufacturing process that enabled him to refine chocolate. Aquilino Maestrani (1814-1880) was the most important www.swissclubvic.com.au 17 Australian Squatters by Hubert de Castella. Translation, with introduction and notes by C.B. Thornton- Smith of ‘Les Squatters Australiens’ (1861). Gâteau au fromage Publisher: Melbourne University The recipe for this favourite dish from the French part of Press, 1987 Switzerland is brought to you by Rémy Favre, President of the ISBN: 0-522-84333-6 Groupe Romand du Victoria: Language: English Binding: Hardcover, 212 pages This recipe is sufficient for 2 square tarts of approx 26cm x 26cm or 2 round tarts of approx 30cm diameter. Charles Hubert de Castella (1825-1907) was born in You will need: Neuchâtel. In 1854 he arrived in Puff pastry sheets Australia to join his brother who in 1850 had bought Yering 4 eggs Station in the Yarra Valley. 120g flour A year later, in partnership with another Swiss, Guillaume de 3 pinches of salt, 3 Pury, he bought Dalry Station, adjoining Yering. pinches of pepper, While seeing Australian landscapes with a painter’s eye, 1 pinch ground he enjoyed a vigorous outdoor life on horseback, happily nutmeg (spices combined with congenial interludes in Melbourne. can be adjusted to He returned to Switzerland but in 1862 Hubert and de Pury taste) returned to Port Phillip, intending to take up sheep farming. 8dl milk Discouraged by the high price of sheep but encouraged by 2dl cream the growing reputation of Victorian wines, they decided to establish vineyards. He bought part of Yering, which he 700g grated Gruyère cheese renamed St Hubert’s, and planted about 100 acres of vines, Grease two square cake trays of approx 26cm x 26cm or if later increasing his vineyard to 250 acres. round approx 30cm diameter. Hubert was devoted to his adopted country. This, his first book, Cut sheets of puff pastry to size and lay sheets in baking trays, is an account of his first stay in Australia. leaving edges 2.5 cm high. This book is out of print but you may find it in secondhand Using a fork or hand whisk, mix eggs, flower, salt, pepper and bookstores and online. nutmeg, then gradually incorporate milk and cream. Add grated cheese to mixture, mix well and pour into trays. Cook approx 30 minutes in a pre-heated oven at 200 degrees. The gâteau au fromage is ready when golden in appearance and the mixture is soft but not runny. Bon appétit! “In Italy, for thirty years under the Borgias they had warfare, terror, murder and bloodshed but they produced Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci and the Renaissance. In Switzerland, they had brotherly love; they had five hundred Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand entertains our members and years of democracy and peace and what did that produce? guests on the first Thursday of the month. On 3 May, The cuckoo clock.” Orson Welles they had special guest musicians joining the group. Four “Switzerland is a small, steep country, much more up students from Canterbury Girls Secondary College together and down than sideways, and is all stuck over with large with their teacher, Jane Farnham, played with Kapelle brown hotels built on the cuckoo style of architecture.” Grüezi Mitenand. Ms Farnham enjoys playing Swiss Ernest Hemingway music and has been teaching her students John Wanner’s arrangements. What a great way to spread Swiss Music Gee, Orson and Ernest, since when is the cuckoo clock beyond the Swiss Community. We look forward to more a Swiss invention? Amazing how stupid comments can CGSC students playing at the club and thank Ms Farnham become famous quotes, just because famous people for her initiative. allegedly uttered them. The Editor 18 Swiss Club of Victoria THE NEXT AUSTRALIAN JASS CHAMPIONSHIP WILL BE HELD AT THE SWISS CLUB OF VICTORIA IN MELBOURNE ON SUNDAY, 10 JUNE 2012 The Swiss Club of Victoria is proud to announce that another National Jass Championship will be held on 10 June, 2012. This all-day event is a great opportunity to indulge in the greatest card game there is and yet enjoy good Swiss food and have a chance to win one of the many great prizes sponsored by companies and individuals. The event is being organised by the Swiss Club of Victoria in conjunction with the Club Restaurant and various members of the Club, as well as in cooperation with other Swiss Clubs in Australia. It will be a much improved event in every respect, which hopefully will lure all those passionate card players to make the effort and come to the cosy Club to challenge the ‘Primo Calabresi Trophy’ and/or one of the many fabulous prizes. A modest, subsidised entry fee of $20.00 per participant is applicable, which includes the competition fee, a full meal around lunch-time with a glass of wine, afternoon sweets, free coffee & tea. Soft drinks and other alcoholic drinks will be available at reduced cost. All day car parking will also be available at a reduced fee of $10.00. Such opportunities to have a full day’s entertainment, together with culinary enjoyments are rarely on offer, and therefore we hope to get a record attendance for this occasion. Registration commences at 8.30am for a 9.00am game start, and the competition is expected to finish around 5.00pm, followed by the ‘Rangverkündung‘ and distribution of the exciting prizes. We hope that again many interstate Swiss members will make the journey to Melbourne for the Queen’s Birthday long weekend. For those interested, we can arrange accommodation in the Metro area at special weekend rates, but early advice as to the number of rooms and nights of the required accommodation, is essential. Bookings should either be emailed to: [email protected] or mailed to the Swiss Club of Victoria, 89 Flinders Lane, Melbourne 3000, or call Roger Moullet at the Club on 03/ 9650 1196. Booking forms can also be requested from the above contacts. The participants will be grouped into either those playing with the German cards or the French cards. Therefore the preference should be indicated on the registration form to assist in the planning of the event. We look forward to seeing you at the Club on 10 June! Swiss Club of Victoria. The Jass Committee: Hans Keller & Roger Moullet www.swissclubvic.com.au 19 When asked by fellow at the Swiss Club (www.swissclubvic.com) during the Queens Australians what Birthday long weekend (see previous page). But to give you a Switzerland’s national small introduction (which you can also find on Wikipedia http:// sport is, what do you de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jass) it should be mentioned that most answer? Many might say variants of Jassen are played by deciding ahead of the game soccer (www.football. which colour should be trumps. Of this particular colour the ch) or skiing (www. ‘Under’ (also known as ‘Bauer’ or ‘Puur’, in English called Jack) swiss-ski.ch), maybe counts for 20 points while the card with the number 9 (called Schwingen (www.esv.ch) ‘Nell’ or ‘Näll’) is worth 14 points. All four players put down c h ) or Ice Hockey (www.swiss- one card in term and the aim is to ‘stechen’ (to win or better icehockey.ch), but my answer is sticking it) those four cards. Once all cards are played the Jassen. This card game, that can trace back its roots to the 14th points are tallied (a total of 157 points are in each game) and a century when it was most likely introduced by the Saracens to winner for the round is declared. For more information on rules Europe, is usually played by four players with 36 cards mainly visit www.jassregeln.ch. in the German speaking areas of Switzerland as well as Austria There are a many different variants to Jassen and this is and the southern part of Germany. Saying that though, there apparent in that the fact that there is no ruling put forward by are French, German and Italian cards and the game is equally any organisation that would count as ‘the common rule’. Only popular in the Romandie (French speaking) and the canton of for the variant called ‘Differenzler’ (the difference) is there a Ticino (Italian speaking). It seems to me that our favourite past Federal-Differenzler-Jass-Council (www.edjv.ch). While most time activity can count as a national sport, seeing that barely people are familiar with the variant ‘Schieber’ (to shove) which any other country takes its card game as seriously as the Swiss can be played ‘undenufe’ (from bottom to top) and ‘obenabe’ do. (from top to bottom) as well as slalom (changing between Proof to this the two versions ongoing) there are quite a few that carry statement is of unfamiliar names such as ‘Butzer’ (the cleaner), ‘Coiffeur’ (the course Swiss TV hairdresser), ‘Königsjass’ (the kings version), ‘Molotow’ or ‘Oh shows such as Shit’ (no english translation required!). www.jassonkel.ch has Donnschtig Jass an extensive list of all the variants which I recommend you (www.sendungen. visit. sf.tv/donnschtig-jass) or Samschtig Jass (www.sendungen.sf.tv/ Seeing that the Swiss are among the few to play Jass, but samschtig-jass), which are screened in prime time slots on a more importantly insist on playing with their own particular weekly basis on the national TV network (www.sf.tv). set of cards, it is not surprising that Switzerland designs, Most Australians would be familiar with Poker or Blackjack manufactures and exports playing cards. AGM AGMüller (www. tournaments being shown on pay TV and the Swiss counterpart agm.ch) from Schaffhausen has to be the follows a similar concept, yet with its own unique twists. For best known producer of Jass cards which has example a referee is present who accounts for all points and been in existence since 1828. Now belonging watches over the correct proceedings. While during poker the to the Spanish Cartamundi corporation they still adhere to TV audience can see everyone’s cards, in TV Jassen we can Swiss values and produce all their playing cards in an eco- only see the deck of the phone contestant. This player joins friendly way using sustainable products and materials for the the game via phone and his cards are held up by the host and cards, the printing and packaging. appear on screen. In the age of computers, To add appeal to a smartphones and iPads Jassen broader audience has also found its way into the game is usually many applications and software joined by a Swiss programs. You can play the TV celebrity. So whether version of Samschtig-Jass online it is the famous as a single player (http://www2. Swiss comedian jass.sf.tv/?uid=gast) or in a multiplayer arena (https://jass.sf.tv/ Peach Weber (www. login_jass1.php). Since 2001 Swiss Jass (www.swissjass.ch) peachweber.ch) or a offers you the possibility to take part in the game either online Donnschtigs Jass in Dornach/Solothurn Motor Racing Bike or offline against players in Switzerland and overseas. star Tom Lüthi (www. For the iPhone and iPad you can tomluethi.ch) you are likely to learn more about a person of download the Jass application by interest from their more social side while playing a game of Yminds (http://itunes.apple.com/au/ cards. app/jass/id310558966?mt=8), get the To an outsider the rules can seem quite complicated and if app from Optobyte called Stoeck you would like to learn how to Jass I highly recommend you Wyys Stich mobile (http://itunes.apple. join one of the classes that will be offered in the lead-up to com/au/app/stock-wyys-stich-mobile/ the second Australian Jass Championship which will be held id359670368?mt=8) or get a virtual Jass 20 Swiss Club of Victoria Tafel (http://itunes.apple.com/au/app/jass/id310558966?mt=8), an essential tool made from slate to add up the scores. Test your Swiss Knowledge The Victorian Jass team has recently returned from the 23rd 8 11 Queensland Swiss Club Jass Championship (http://www.swiss. 1 12 org.au/event.php?ID=1216). Congratulations on their stellar performance! We are very much looking forward to welcome you at the 2012 Australian Jass Championship (http://www. 2 3 9 swiss.org.au/event.php?ID=1399) which will be held on Sunday 10th June at the Swiss Club of Victoria. See page 19 for more 14 information. 4 13 Damian Schaller - Marketing Manager 5 6 15 It’s your Club. Get Involved! 10 16 7 Across 1. Swiss cheese. 1st Swiss Club Jass Night Results 4. CERN is in which city? 5. First name of Swiss visual artist who works with video, film – 17 March and moving images. 7. Switzerland’s three main geographical regions are the Jura, Singles 1. Robin Martin ...... 2965 the Alps and the….? 2. Rene Zeller ...... 2849 9. What is the name of the large science centre in 3. Fritz Hochuli ...... 2831 Winterthur? 10. The biggest lake, which lies wholly within Switzerland, is Doubles 1. Sylvia & Fritz Hochuli ...... 5418 Lake…? 2. Hans Keller & Doris Conrad ...... 5254 13. Surname of General that finished the ‘Sonderbund’ war 3. Trudy & Marcel Theiler ...... 5042 quick and almost bloodless in 1847. Down Upcoming Jass Nights - 2012 2. Surname of Swiss expressionist/surrealist painter. 3. Swiss sausage. 2nd 2 June Swiss Club 5. Which organisation issues the 1. August badges? 3rd 7 July Swiss Club 6. Mountain near Luzern. 3rd 11 August Matterhorn 8. Which event is held on 12 May? Final 15 September Horticulture Centre, Jolimont Road, Forest Hill, 8.00pm 11. In which canton is the ‘Kartause Ittingen’? 12. Switzerland is one of 23 federal states worldwide. Which Information supplied by Paul Eisenegger 9544 4681 one is the oldest? 14. Which canton was the last one to join the confederation? 15. Famous Swiss Biscuit brand. Support those that support your Club. Consider our Advertisers 16. River flowing through Zürich. For answers go to page 23 The Organisation of the Swiss Abroad has Follow the Swiss Club on Social Media! launched a petition calling on the Federal Council to introduce e-voting as quickly as You can find us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/ possible for all Swiss. You can sign this petition! Swissclubvic, on Twitter @SwissClubVic or on YouTube http:// www.youtube.com/SwissClubVictoria www.petition.aso.ch www.swissclubvic.com.au 21 As always, carnival started late in Basel Carnival is something typical of Catholic, not Protestant Europe. Yet in Basel, famed as a bastion of the Reformation, they celebrate a carnival with a difference. For one thing, it is held a week after the traditional Catholic carnival, which culminates in Mardi Gras and ends at dawn on Ash Wednesday, which this year was 22 February. The Basel carnival opens with the ‘Morgestraich’ (reveille) at 4am on the Monday after Ash Wednesday (27 February) and goes on for three days. While the participants wear grotesque masques and colourful costumes, the music is mostly fifes and drums, reminiscent of military tattoos. In fact, carnival was suppressed in Basel during the Reformation; the present version is a 19th century revival. It borrows its military music from that played by the young trade The new event had the support of immigrants from southern guild members historically charged with organising a militia to Germany, Alsace, and other parts of Switzerland, who brought defend the city in times of war. along their own carnival traditions and added them to the military Somehow this local tradition came together with a desire parades, taking over the fifes and drums from the latter. to imitate celebrations in the neighbouring Catholic areas – There remains the mystery of why the Basel carnival begins when resulting in what appears to be the only genuine Protestant Lent has already started. Is it, as some have said, because of carnival in this part of the world. Alongside the fife-and-drum Protestant aversion to Lent or a desire to provoke neighbouring bands you now see ‘Guggenbands’, the brass groups that play Catholics who are already fasting at this stage? Habicht believes off-key and are a feature of other Swiss carnivals. otherwise. He points out that, even before the Reformation, the Chequered history Basel carnival began a half-week after Ash Wednesday. Local historian Peter Habicht has written a book about “The reason lies in different calculations of the dates of Lent,” he the Basel carnival or ‘Fasnacht’, as it is called. Fasnacht or explains. In some places like Basel, Lent did not begin until the Fastnacht means ‘fast-eve’ and was originally the word following week because people there fasted on the Sundays as for Shrove Tuesday, but it is also used in German-speaking well to make up the prescribed 40 fast days before Easter. Switzerland for the carnival itself. Habicht draws attention to Magic in the air the Protestant character of the Basel Fasnacht, which makes it The brilliant fancy dress and music of the Basel carnival are different from an orgy of drunkenness and licence. So how did put on by carnival societies. Lanterns are an important feature, the Protestants of Basel get the idea of reviving carnival? too. At the Morgestraich, the participants wear not only masks “It’s not easy to find a single answer,” says Habicht. “First, but also coloured lanterns on their heads, while the city streets there is the basic question as to why there was a revival of the are plunged into darkness. In addition there are large lanterns mediaeval carnival”, which fell victim not only to the zeal of depicting current topics to be satirised. the Reformers but to Catholic efforts at suppressing it during Meanwhile, satirical poets and songsters compose verse the 16th and 17th centuries because of its subversive potential. commentary on current affairs which they recite and sometimes “Why carnival got a new lease of life towards the end of the distribute in printed form, and there is generally plenty of 18th century is an open question among specialists.” coarse humour. This is all done in the Basel dialect, not in Habicht is clear that the original Basel carnival was suppressed standard German, and the in-jokes ensure it is just for local for religious reasons. “Although the mediaeval carnival in Basel consumption. was banned just after the Reformation in 1529, the term lived Daytime parades featuring marching bands and festival floats on as the name of a feast day”, he says, just as some Catholic are televised for a national audience. About 20,000 people are saints’ days were still referred to by Protestants. actively involved in making carnival happen, and the crowds “That’s why the name ‘Fasnacht’ keeps coming up in the lining the streets are in the hundreds of thousands. historical sources even after the Reformation. It just means the The atmosphere is magical. This is so especially at night, date. But it has often been mistakenly interpreted as evidence whether at Morgestraich – which always draws a huge crowd of an unbroken tradition of carnival.” even at such an ungodly hour – or on the following nights of Habicht sees the modern Basel carnival as the result of very strolling the city streets (‘gässle’), where citizens and costumed gradual and varied development. “After the Reformation, the players mingle to enjoy the fun. freed-up Shrovetide date was used for the weapons inspection of But the Basel carnival is more orderly than it is riotous, and the city guilds, associated with a military parade, and the big guild wild behaviour is frowned upon. The emphasis is on aesthetic banquet was still held that evening. These events had precious enjoyment of the colours and sounds. Many people familiar little to do with carnival as we know it today. But they became a with the rowdier celebrations elsewhere find the atmosphere of vehicle for the development of a carnival in the 19th century.” the Basel carnival to be poetic and even somewhat melancholy. 22 Swiss Club of Victoria There are only three more Luncheons to go for this year, so please Ladies, get your pens out and mark these dates in your calendar: s 7EDNESDAY *ULY s 7EDNESDAY 3EPTEMBER s 7EDNESDAY .OVEMBER Price $22 pp for members, $25 pp for non-members. Includes 2-course meal, wine, soft drinks and coffee. En Wonderbare Morge Looking forward to your company. New-comers most welcome. Kä Wölkli rings am Himmel. For information and bookings ring me on 9889 9321 or Roger S ganz Ländli goldig grüe. at the Club on 9650 1196. Bookings are essential! De Säntis volle Freud Heidy Giger ond d Sonn scho ase früe. Wie Diamante glitzered hüt s Tau of Grääs ond Halm. S isch äm, mer ghöri singe vom Himmel her en Psalm. Gell Herz, do tueds der wohle. Säg selb, wie wärischt draa; wenn d chönntischt i dim Gwösse en derige Morge haa. Inge Kulmanis was the guest speaker at the last Luncheon. She entertained us wonderfully with stories from her childhood in Basel and the many adventures as an immigrant in Australia. “Poor things! Not only do they see their best land turned into stinking bogs...but they have to move around the streets of their towns in boats. An upstairs window has to serve as the front door to their homes.” Hans Konrad Escher (1767-1823), writing of the inhabitants of the villages around Lake Walen before the Linth correction Corpus Christi, Appenzell Inner-Rhodes Corpus Christi is celebrated in Roman Catholic areas on the second Thursday after Whitsunday (Thursday, 7 June 2012). It consists of a procession in honour of the Test your Swiss Knowledge - Answers holy sacrament. In Catholic Appenzell Inner-Rhodes the Across: 1. SPRINZ; 4. GENEVA; 5. PIPILOTTI; 7. PLATEAU; end of the official procession is taken up by women 9. TECHNORAMA; 10. NEUCHATEL; 13. DUFOUR dressed in their magnificent traditional festive costumes. Down: 2. KLEE; 3. CERVELAT; 5. PROPATRIA; 6. PILATUS; This costume is worn only on a few specified religious 8. UNTERHALTUNGSABEND; 11. THURGAU; 12. USA; 14. JURA; occasions. 15. KAMBLY; 16. LIMMAT www.swissclubvic.com.au 23 3. Swiss Community www.swisscommunity.org: this is a very valuable internet platform for all Swiss Abroad, about their activities abroad and their relationship back to Switzerland. 4. Pro Helvetia: The CEO, Mr. Knuesel, gave a brief outline of the framework within which they promote Swiss culture abroad and work with Swiss organisations abroad to Spring Assembly Report of the promote Swiss artists in general. See their website www. prohelvetia.ch Council of the Swiss Abroad 5. Swiss Review: You will remember that previously six issues were published every year, before budget cuts forced a Bern – Saturday, 24 March 2012 reduction to only four issues per year. The intervention of the ASO has succeeded, this year there will be five and next year 1. The President of the ASO, Jacques-Simon Eggly, again six issues. The Review is an important link between stressed in his report the following points: Switzerland and the Swiss Abroad. In order to get a copy s Electronic voting on Federal matters for the Swiss Abroad: you will need to be registered with the Consulate General. four Cantons offered electronic voting for the Swiss Abroad You can choose either paper or electronic version by visiting for the 2011 elections. The Assembly approved of a decision www.swissabroad.ch. to urge the Federal Government to expedite electronic 6. 2013: The current delegates (including the 4 delegates from voting on a national level, in the form of a petition. Australia) to the Council of the Swiss Abroad have their s $RAFTING OF A law for the Swiss Abroad, which is being mandate until 13 August 2013. In October/November 2012, discussed at all parliamentary levels. The Swiss Abroad are the Secretariat of the Swiss Abroad in Bern will organise being asked to comment. In my comments, I did ask the elections for members of the Council for the years 2013 - Council to consider the question of direct representation of 2017. It is foreseen that the coming elections are held with the Swiss Abroad in the Federal Parliament, as the Council the old system, i.e. the Swiss Clubs getting to vote. Once the had not had the opportunity to discuss that. At committee new law has been approved, only those Swiss Abroad will level, however, the idea was rejected. be allowed to vote having registered themselves to vote in Further subjects were discussed as follows: Switzerland. There is still time for you to register. 2. Swiss Banks and the Swiss Abroad: Many delegates 7. The introduction of the biometric Swiss passport was complained that their countrymen in the various countries again discussed and also the difficulty for many Swiss have difficulties with their Swiss Banks, the accounts either Abroad to access the Swiss Consular Service. The suggestion being closed or being loaded with heavy costs. The Swiss in was made that beside this passport the Swiss Abroad should the US are particularly badly affected. have the possibility to get an ID card without the necessity of biometrical data. The meeting approved of a resolution to ask the Federal Government to look into solutions as to how to service 8. The 90th Congress of the Swiss Abroad will be held on the Swiss Abroad with adequate bank account facilities in 17-19 August in Lausanne. The spring session 2013 will be Switzerland. held in the Bern town hall on 16 March. Beat Knoblauch - Council of the Swiss Abroad 24 Swiss Club of Victoria “Of course, there are retired people moving to Asia, but around Swiss Abroad prefer not to three quarters of the Swiss abroad are still of working age, between 18 and 65. The idea that Swiss living outside the stay put country are mainly pensioners is wrong,” she added. The foreign ministry agrees that more and more Swiss are Over 700,000 Swiss live outside the country, most of them in heading abroad only for a short time. Europe, but increasingly their move abroad is only temporary as part of their professional careers. “Many people emigrate for six months to a year for further education or to pursue their careers, but not with the idea of But even if they are only staying away for a short time, they are making a permanent move,” said the ministry’s delegate for still interested in exercising their political rights, making the the Swiss abroad, Jean-François Lichtenstern. introduction of e-voting a necessity for the Swiss Abroad. According to the statistics, 30,000 Swiss on average leave the The Swiss Abroad statistics supplied by the foreign ministry country annually, while another 25,000 return home. Last year, detail exactly how many citizens live abroad and where. But the number of Swiss abroad increased by 8,517, up 1.23%. these numbers provide little in the way of information as to why people have moved to another country or for how long. A more significant rise was the additional 5.5% of Swiss abroad who registered to vote, taking the total to 143,288. “We assume that many people move abroad for professional reasons,” said Ariane Rustichelli, spokeswoman for the E-voting Organisation of the Swiss Abroad (OSA). Because of this figure, the OSA has demanded the faster “For the past decade, there has been a clear trend towards introduction of e-voting, which has been tested in a number of people moving away for a few years and then coming back, cantons. mainly for professional reasons or for further education.” “Postal voting often doesn’t work properly,” said the OSA in a statement. “The introduction of e-voting is from the OSA’s Drawn to Asia point of view… in the interest of all voters, and constitutes an Asian countries have attracted higher numbers of Swiss citizens essential instrument for the application of direct democracy.” in recent years, even if the overall figures remain relatively low. For the organisation, communes and cantons would also “I can imagine that people are moving to work in countries benefit since it would reduce their administrative workload. where the economy has been growing rapidly,” Rustichelli said. Counting votes would be automated and results published faster, cutting costs. The largest Swiss abroad community lives in France, with over 180,000 people, ahead of Germany with around 79,000. At the other end of the scale, São Tomé and Principe, Kiribati and SWISS CLUB MOVIE Micronesia are home to just one Swiss citizen. The Swiss Club Restaurant. It’s where you meet your friends. ‘Polizischt Wäckerli’ Wednesday, 18 July 2012, 8pm Swiss Club, 2nd floor CH/1956, 104 min Swiss German/German subtitles Director: Kurt Früh with Schaggi Streuli, Ruedi Walter, Margrit Rainer, Stephanie Glaser, Eva Haefeli, Peter Brogle, Emil Hegetschweiler Wäckerli, policeman in the small Swiss village of Allenwil, is in trouble. His son Ruedi is unhappy in his Our first performance this year was at the SWISS FESTIVAL apprenticeship and spends way too much money. And at the Austrian Club. It went very well and we all had a now 10’000 francs have been stolen from the borough’s great time. The next adventure will be in Hepburn Springs community fund. at the SWISS AND ITALIAN FESTA. We are always looking Join us down memory lane for this classic Swiss movie forward to perform at this events together with the other with many well known and loved actors. It wonderfully Swiss groups. depicts Swiss life in the 1950. The practise sessions are in full swing but we are always Free for members, non-members gold coin donation. looking for new members. If you like to sing, give us a try. We welcome back Brigitte Bohren to the choir. Enjoy dinner at the club, before or after the movie. For more information phone the Convenor, Heidy Giger on Please book with the restaurant on 9650 1196. 9889 9321. www.swissclubvic.com.au 25 Swiss Events & Functions Please note that this calendar also list events other than those organised by the Swiss Club of Victoria and its subgroups. 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). JUNE Saturday 02 SwissKids Saturday 02 Jass Night - Swiss Club Thursday 07 Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand entertains Sunday 10 Australian Jass Championship Friday 15 Billiard Competition - Bernard Sandoz Trophy Thursday 21 Second Floor Club Social: Movie Afternoon - ‘La Cage aux Folles’ JULY Wednesday 04 Ladies’ Luncheon Thursday 05 Kapelle Grüezi Mitenand entertains Saturday 07 SwissKids Saturday 07 Jass Night - Swiss Club Wednesday 18 Swiss Movie Night - ‘Polizischt Wäckerli’ Tuesday 31 National Day Senior Members Luncheon AUGUST Wednesday 01 National Day Lantern Procession, Federation Square Swiss Club National Day Dinner Saturday 04 SwissKids Sunday 05 National Day Family Picnic, Gembrook - Matterhorn Saturday 11 Jass Night - Matterhorn Thursday 16 Second Floor Club Social: TBA OTHER REGULAR SWISS CLUB MEETINGS: Advance Notice: 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 SwissKids: meet on the 1st Saturday of every month, from 2pm to 4pm The Swiss Diners Club: dates for get-together can be found on www.swiss.org.au or on our Yahoo group http://groups. Kaffeeklatsch yahoo.com/group/YoungSwissMelbourne Kaffeeklatsch (Coffee, Cakes and a Chat) will be on Sunday, 9 September All our Senior Citizens over sixty will be welcome. Mark this date in your diary. More information in the next newsletter. SWISS NEWS, WORLD WIDE 26 Swiss Club of Victoria CBD FUNCTION AND MEETING ROOM WITH A DIFFERENCE The Second Floor at the Swiss Club "53).%33 &5.#4)/.3 #/.&%2%.#%3 3-!,, -%%4).'3 s 4HEATRE STYLE SEATING FOR UP TO s "ASIC COFFEE MAKING FACILITIES s 7ORK SHOP SEATING FOR UP TO s 0ARKING CLOSE BY s #OCKTAIL SET UP FOR UP TO s MINUTES WALK TO &LINDERS 3TREET OR s 0RIVATE MEETING ROOM FOR UP TO 0ARLIAMENT 3TATION s !RCHITECT DESIGNED SPACE s MINUTES WALK TO 4RAM s #HOICE OF CATERING FROM THE 3WISS s &RIENDLY VENUE WITH 3WISS HISTORY #LUB 2ESTAURANT OR 4ERRA 2OSSA s #OMPETITIVE RATES s -ODERN AMENITIES /2 $)..%2 $!.#% &5.#4)/.3 ,!5.#(%3 02)6!4% %6%.43 s 5NBEATABLE LOCATION s -ODERN AMENITIES s !MPLE PARKING CLOSE BY s #HOICE OF CATERING FROM THE 3WISS s 4RAIN TRAM AND BUS CLOSE BY #LUB 2ESTAURANT OR 4ERRA 2OSSA s $INNER SEATING FOR UP TO s #HOICE OF "9/ CATERER s #OCKTAIL SET UP TO s #ATERING KITCHEN WITH OVENS s $ANCE mOOR MICROWAVE AND INDUSTRIAL DISHWASHER s !RCHITECT DESIGNED MODERN SPACE s &RIENDLY VENUE WITH 3WISS HISTORY WITH LOTS OF AMBIENCE s #OMPETITIVE RATES !4 4(% 0%2&%#4 6%.5% n 4(% 37)33 #,5" /& 6)#4/2)! Contact us on E: thesecondfl[email protected] T: 1300 893 968 to check for availability, more information or a quote Annual General MeetingMeeting DABOU N T U O B T R U H L E C S Swiss Festival W S I S Ladies Luncheon Swiss Festival ll Ambassador’s Farewell