FILM AND HIGH TEA, PARLIAMENT HOUSE - MAY 2024
An interesting and enjoyable outing was had at Parliament House in Sydney. This comprised of a short film followed by a high tea served in theatrical fashion with billowing ‘smoke’ from three-tiered cake stands and a glass of bubbly.
The film, Tracing a Fatal Journey, recounted the outcome for Swiss national Xavier Mertz from Basle, a polar explorer, mountaineer, and champion skier who joined the 1912 Australasian Antarctic Expedition led by Douglas Mawson. Mertz endured unimaginable hardship in the hostile environment, including losing his close companion in a crevasse and being forced to eat his loyal sled dogs in an attempt to survive. Mertz was the first Swiss person to set foot in Antarctica, which also claimed his life at age 30.
lunch at the apprentice restaurant, ultimo - march 2024
By participating as dining guests, forty two of our members enjoyed the unique experience of observing young hospitality industry students present a first class dining service at the TAFE NSW training school in Ultimo, Sydney.
The event was organised by our Community Function Coordinator, Beat Birchmeier and there was no guest age limit.
CHRISTMAS 2023
Christmas cheer for compatriots over 80 years
The committee of eight members was assisted by a dedicated group of volunteers who generously offered their time to hand-deliver 120 Christmas packages to compatriots 80 years and older, located all over Sydney and beyond. Beat, our events coordinator planned the logistics exercise, down to the last cookie and address label, and in November 2023 assigned volunteers to specific recipients.
Each packet contained a box of Wiehnachtsguetsli, a calendar and a letter from our president with Christmas greetings.
Christmas luncheon at the Concordia Club, Tempe
Over 100 guests attended this special luncheon. The 2023 event was convivial with carefully decorated tables, adorned with Swiss chocolates (naturally), and packets of home made Swiss Christmas cookies for each guest. Entertainment was provided by an accordionist. Regula Scheidegger played a piece on violin entitled Kleines Fantasiestück über 'O du fröhliche', accompanied by Tomas Drevikovsky on piano. Guests reminisced as they joined in with singing. A cheerful atmosphere was once again provided by the Swiss dancing group Alpegruess. The Lucky Door Prize hamper along with the tombola, ensured that every guest took home a gift. Guests were pleased to meet Mr Jérôme Charbonnet, Deputy Consul (seated next to Regula in the photo Gallery). As we've come to expect, the Concordia staff provided a quality meal and attentive service. Yet another very popular event, meticulously arranged by Beat Birchmeier and wife Esther. More photos in the Gallery.
The event was wonderful. I enjoyed talking away in Schwiizerdütsch and every time I attend I see another familiar face. Everybody is so kind and nice to talk to. The preparation and all the work put in to organising was absolutely fantastic.
I had such a great time. - Remark from a guest.
AGM - september 2023
Ambush on the 'Grand Canal'
Presentation of Honorary Membership
Presentation of Honorary Membership
At the 2023 AGM, president Regula Scheidegger surprises events coordinator Beat Birchmeier, while treasurer Martin Scarpino looks on. Rosso Italian Restaurant, Gladesville.
Presentation of Honorary Membership
Presentation of Honorary Membership
Presentation of Honorary Membership
In acknowledgement of their tireless work for the society, Beat and Esther Birchmeier are awarded Honorary Life Membership to the Society, by Regula Scheidegger.
AGM 2022
Flowers to farewell Uschy Suter (left) and Ursula Moser (right) from the committee. President Regula Scheidegger thanked these two committee members for their work and dedication over many years.