Australian - German Institute Das Zentrum

2010-04-21T17:50:00.001+10:00

Dear Readers,

Das Zentrum has moved! You can find us at our new home at http://www.daszentrum.org.au/

Thank you for your support, and we hope you enjoy our new website.

2009-10-27T10:29:00.001+11:00

Wed 28 October
8pm
Annual General Meeting at our premises at the Griffin Centre.
Send in your nominations or join us to get involved in the future
of your organisation. Contact Paul for more information on
6281 0486.

30 Oct to 1 Nov
Friday from 5pm
Sat/Sun from 11am
Oktoberfest 2009 – Canberra’s own Oktoberfest is back, bigger
and better with German food, beer, music & entertainment for
all. See us at Das Zentrum’s potato pancake stall!
Budawang Building, Exhibition Park. Entry fees apply.

2 to 9 November
(closed 8 Nov)
Ortszeit Local Time – visit this exclusive photographic
exhibition at The Gallery, the Main Quad, Canberra Grammar
School. Free entry.

Sun 8 November
3pm
Concert by Trio Empyrean commemorating musical
anniversaries and 20 years since the fall of the Berlin wall.
At the John Lingard Hall, Canberra Grammar Junior School,
Red Hill. Admission prices: $25; $20 concession/members; $15
students.

Sun 6 December
6.30pm
Das Zentrum Christmas function at The Ridge Organic
Restaurant, Farrer Shops. $35 for 2 courses (2 meal choices,
vegetarian/vegan/gluten free options available on request).
Restaurant is BYO - $3 corkage per bottle, not licensed.
RSVP by Sunday 29 November to Paul on 6281 0486.

Classes and events

2009-08-20T09:09:00.001+10:00

Mondays 6-8pm
German language class at intermediate level – register now for Semester 2 starting on 27 July – contact Katrin on on 6262 8782 or email: katrin.matthews@anu.edu.au.

Tuesdays 6-8pm
German language class for beginners. Semester 2 starts on 28 July. To join or for more details please ring Birgit on 6166 1510 or email: matwijiw@grapevine.com.au.

Wednesdays 6-8pm
German language class for continuing beginners 2. For more information or to enrol for Semester 2 starting on 29 July please contact Susanne on 6262 8767.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late
German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months – contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

Friday 26 June
6pm tour
7pm dinner
Winter Solstice Dinner at Zierholz at the Brewery. Join us for our mid-year dinner. 2 courses for $25. Brewery tour starts from 6pm.

Friday 24 July
7pm
Bilingual Trivia Night – did you miss this popular event last year? Test your knowledge in English AND German! Includes supper, tea & coffee and prizes! At Der Keller at the Harmonie
German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah. $18.00/person or $15.00 for members/concessions.

Thurs 20 August
6.30pm
Film screening “The Baader Meinhof Complex”. Join us for this Oscar nominated film about an important chapter in Germany’s history. Screening at the Burton Theatre, Canberra Boys Grammar School (parking off Alexander Street). Drinks and canapés served before the film from 6.30pm. $10 per person. DVD screening in German with English subtitles). See article enclosed for more details. Note film is rated MA Strong violence, coarse language and nudity.

18-19 September
Immersion Weekend – immerse yourself in German language, food and culture right here in Canberra. Our popular event is back commencing Friday evening 18th September and running all day Saturday 19th September. More details to come in our next edition.

Calendar at a Glance for February - May 2009

2009-03-06T14:24:00.000+11:00

Mondays 6-8pm
German language class at intermediate level has limited spaces still available. More details in Federkiel. To sign up please ring Katrin on on 62628782 or email: katrin.matthews@anu.edu.au.

Tuesdays 6-8pm
German language class for beginners. No prior knowledge of German is necessary and places are still available for Semester 1. More information enclosed. To join please ring Birgit on 6166 1510 or email matwijiw@grapevine.com.au.

Wednesdays 6-8pm
German language class for continuing beginners 2. The class is full for Semester 1, 2009.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late

German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months – contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

Wed 11 March
8pm
Talk by Prof Dr Michaela Gross-Letzelter, from the Katholische Stiftungsfachhochschule München, University of Applied Science, “A DIFFERENT VISION OF GERMANY - POVERTY, EDUCATION and UNEMPLOYMENT in GERMANY”. Talk in English, questions in English or German. More information enclosed.

Thursday 19 March
6.30pm
Film Screening “Kirschblüten – Hanami”-“Cherry Blossoms”. One of Germany's foremost filmmakers, Doris Dörrie, writes and directs this film which has won numerous awards. Screening at the Burton Theatre, Canberra Boys Grammar School (parking off Alexander Street). Join us before the film from 6.30pm for drinks and canapés.
$10 per person. DVD screening in German (film does NOT have English subtitles). See article enclosed for more details.

A Sunday in late March (date to be confirmed)
2pm
Federweisser Wine Tasting at Helm’s Winery, Butts Road via Murrumbateman (25 minutes drive north on the Barton Highway from Canberra). It’s that time of the year again when this traditional young wine is ready – more information on Federweisser is enclosed. Enjoy it with Zwiebelkuchen (onion tart) for $12 per person. Car pooling can be arranged if required. RSVP to Paul on 6281 0486 and he will confirm when the wine is ready.

Wed 8 April
8.15pm
Talk by Bern Brent about his journey to Australia on the Dunera and his subsequent internment: 'Unrasiert und fern der Heimat - Tatura, Victoria, Internment Camps 2, 3 and 4., Sep 1940 to Jan 1942'. Talk at Das Zentrum in English and German. More details enclosed.

Public Lecture

2009-03-06T14:23:00.000+11:00

Das Zentrum presents:
A Talk by Prof. Dr. Michaela Gross-Letzelter
from the
Katholische Stiftungsfachhochschule München, University of Applied Science

Wednesday 11 March 2009
8pm at Das Zentrum

A DIFFERENT VISION OF GERMANY

POVERTY, EDUCATION and UNEMPLOYMENT in GERMANY

The prospects of economic development in 2009 have also deteriorated in Germany. In Europe, recessive tendencies are constantly growing. In recent years things appeared to be clearly more positive in Germany. Despite the good economic situation, however, poverty has been evident.

In her lecture, Prof. Dr. Michaela Gross-Letzelter will focus on those Germans not profiting from economic developments. She will discuss social inequality in Germany, and will consider those Germans who belong to the poor. She will present statistics on poverty and the interconnection of poverty, education and unemployment. Besides this, Prof. Dr. Gross-Letzelter will also review socioeconomic background and educational chances. To demonstrate how Germany is positioned, she will partly draw comparisons with Europe.

The talk will be in English, questions can be in English or German.

Federweisser 2009

2009-03-06T14:22:00.001+11:00

Have you tried this traditional young wine?

Any of our long-term members know all about Federweisser and our annual event to taste it and enjoy an afternoon at Helm’s Winery at Murrumbateman. You would also know that there is only a short window in which to enjoy it! But for those who don’t know, what is it???

In the German speaking regions of Europe it goes under a variety names such as Neuer Wein, Federweisser, Sauser, Sturm, Suesser, Neia Siessa – but it all means the same, it tastes terrific, is delicious to drink and is not too alcoholic. It is grape juice in the early stages of becoming wine (fermentation). Fermentation is a process whereby yeast converts the grapes’ natural sugar into carbon dioxide, alcohol and eventually into wine. This unusual drink combines the taste of yeast and freshly crushed grapes with the sparkle of champagne and foams like a beer. It is not much to look at with its cloudy mauve dusty color but it is soooo good to drink in particular if you have it with freshly baked onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen).

This drink has a long tradition in the wine growing districts of the German speaking regions. No grape harvest would be complete without this fine drink to fortify the grape pickers and satisfy the eager local populous as well as the tourists. The drink is also reputed to be very healthy because of its low alcohol content and the B-vitamins it contains from the yeast.

While in days gone past Federweisser was only available in the actual wine growing districts of central Europe it is now widely available in supermarkets sold in screw top bottles with a small hole in the top and a piece of paper glued over it to prevent the bottle from exploding due to too much gas building up inside. Supermarkets keep the bottles in cool storage that virtually stops the fermentation process. You buy a bottle and keep it at room temperature that restarts fermentation and in two days it is ready to drink.

For the last few years, Helms Winery near Murrumbateman has given us the opportunity to sample Federweisser and to learn about the finer details of wine making. This year’s crop is almost ready, and because of the fermentation process, we have only a small window of opportunity in which to try it. It’s a great day out in the Autumn weather enjoying Federweisser and its traditional accompaniment, onion tart.

Where: Helms Winery, Butts Road, Murrumbateman (car pooling available – please let Paul know when you RSVP so we can make transport arrangements).

When: a Sunday in late March from 2pm. Ken Helm will tell us when the wine is ready to drink.

Cost: $12 per person. This includes two glasses of wine and a piece of Zwiebelkuchen.

Bring: Picnic rug/chairs, containers if you wish to take home some Federweisser.

Please RSVP to Paul on 6281 0486 and he will confirm the date once known.

Film Screening

2009-03-06T14:21:00.002+11:00

Einladung zum Filmabend /
Invitation to film screening

Kirschblüten – Hanami
Cherry Blossoms - Hanami
Ein Film von Doris Dörrie

Thursday 19 March
Pre-film drinks & canapés from 6.30 pm

Burton Theatre, Canberra Boys Grammar School
(parking off Alexander Street)
$ 10 per person, includes drinks and canapés
DVD screening IN GERMAN
WITHOUT English subtitles

Learn German in 2009!

2009-03-06T14:21:00.001+11:00

Learn German in 2009

All of Das Zentrum’s language teachers are German native speakers with appropriate qualifications and several years teaching experience. Courses offered in Semester 1:

Beginning German (places still available)
$200 for 14 two-hour sessions
Tuesdays, 6-8 pm
Start: 17 February 2009
Book: Langenscheidt Optimal A1 Text- and workbook (can be ordered through or is available at the ANU Bookstore)

No prior knowledge of German necessary.

To sign up please ring Birgit on 6166 1510 or email (matwijiw@grapevine.com.au) and let us know your name and contact details (email and mobile phone number).

Intermediate German (limited number of places still available)
$200 for 14 two-hour sessions
Monday, 6-8 pm
Start: 9 February 2009
Book: em Hauptbuch Text- and workbook from Chapter 6 (the books can be ordered through or are available at the ANU Bookstore; please check with teacher!)

You need to be quite fluent in German and have a good understanding of the basic grammatical structures.

To sign up please ring Katrin on on 62628782 or email (katrin.matthews@anu.edu.au) and let us know your name and contact details (email and mobile phone number).

Courses are held at Das Zentrum, which is on the first floor of the Griffin Centre in Civic.

You have to be a member of Das Zentrum to do these courses. Membership ($50 / $30 concession per year) also gives you free access to our library resources (books, magazines, videos, DVDs...).

Note the Continuing Beginners’ course which runs on Wednesday evenings is full.

Calendar of Events, October - December 2008

2008-11-05T11:31:00.000+11:00

Mondays 6-8pm

German language classes at intermediate level. For more information on language classes including expressions of interest for 2009 please contact Patricia at: bezi@bigpond.net.au.

Wednesdays 6-8pm

German language classes for continuing beginners 2
re-starts for final term of 2008 on 29 October. A few places are still available – please contact Susanne on 6262 8767.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late

German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months –contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

Wed 29 October
8pm

Annual General Meeting at the Griffin Centre – it’s that time of year already. Send in your nominations or get nominated yourself! Contact Paul for more information on 6281 0486.

Sat 8 November
10am – 1pm

Das Zentrum’s Home Cooking Series – Cheesemaking – another session to meet demand. See more information enclosed. If interested please contact Angelika on 6281 4023.

Sun 16 November
3pm

Eine kleine Nachmittagsmusik – A little afternoon music
Music performed by Sarahlouise Owens (Soprano) and Natasha Tkachenko (Piano) from Klassik to Kabarett – Gems from the world of German music and song. At the Harmonie German Club, Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah. Tickets available at the door - $20 or $16 for members or concession holders – see article enclosed for more details.

Thurs 4 December
6.30pm for 7pm
Christmas Dinner Celebration for members and friends of Das Zentrum. Join us for a traditional Christmas dinner at the Harmonie German Club in Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah. Cost is $30 for 2 courses. Please RSVP to Paul on 6281 0486 by Sunday 30 November.

COMING in
MARCH 2009
Do you want to improve your German language skills in just one weekend? Das Zentrum’s highly regarded Immersion Weekend is coming again. More information coming in early 2009.

Semester 2, 2008: Upcoming Events

2008-08-06T10:04:00.000+10:00

Mondays 6-8pm

German language classes at intermediate level – semester 2 starting 21 July still has a couple of vacancies at time of going to print. For information contact Katrin Matthews on 6262 8782.

Wednesdays 6-8pm

German language classes for continuing beginners 2 are on Wednesdays with classes already underway. For details please contact Susanne on 6262 8767.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late

German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months –contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

Note: Das Zentrum is running only the above weekly language groups for Semester 2 – our Tuesday beginners class will not be offered this semester. For more information on language classes please contact Patricia at: bezi@bigpond.net.au.

Thursday 7 August
6.30pm

Film Screening “Die Schweizermacher - The Swissmakers” This 1978 comedy remains one of Switzerland’s most successful films. Screening at the Burton Theatre, Canberra Boys Grammar School (parking off Alexander Street). Join us before the film from 6.30pm for drinks and canapés.
$10 per person. DVD screening in German with English subtitles. See article enclosed for more details.

Sat 13 September
10am

Das Zentrum’s Home Cooking Series – Cheesemaking
See more information enclosed. If interested please contact Angelika on 6281 4023.

20 September to
12 October
Deutsche Wochen – German weeks feature a series of events from members of the Canberra German Speakers’ Network including Das Zentrum, CMS Radio, the ANU, the ACT German Language School, the German Australian Playgroup, and the Harmonie German Club. Das Zentrum’s reading competition is the opening event and the weeks finish with the Harmonie German Club’s Oktoberfest.

Sat 20 September
2pm
Vorlesewettbewerb – Reading Competition – this year we invite you to join our Wilhelm Busch themed reading competition. Come along on the day to hear the finalists – coffee and cake will be available. From 2pm at the Griffin Centre. More information and entry form enclosed.

Reminder: Invitation to Presentation

2008-05-27T16:06:00.000+10:00

Invitation

To a talk by Mr Max Hughes on the subject:

Australia, Germany, Austria – Can we do better?

Das Zentrum is proud to host this talk. Mr Hughes is a former long serving Australian career diplomat. He was resident Australian Ambassador to Poland (1985-1987), Germany (1995-1999) and Austria (2000-2003) with additional responsibility for Switzerland and Liechtenstein when based in Bonn. He has been responsible for the development of some major inter governmental projects during his time as Ambassador. His background in German affairs goes back to his first posting to Bonn in 1966. Mr Hughes considered it important to promote the relationship between Australia and German speaking European countries. He has given many interviews in the German language print and electronic media in Europe and Australia.

WHEN: 7.30 PM, Thursday 5 June 2008
WHERE: ‘Das Zentrum', Australian German Institute Inc., 1st Floor, Griffin Centre, Genge Street, Civic

For further information please call 62810486 or email pgamp@orac.net.au

Trivia Night, 23 May

2008-05-13T15:13:00.001+10:00

BILINGUAL TRIVIA EVENING

Join us for a fun filled evening hosted by Das Zentrum. Questions will be asked in both English and German. You don’t need to be fluent in both languages – one will do. Organise a group of 6 or form a table on the night. Premium Lindt chocolate, Beck’s beer and offers from the Privileges Card will be up for grabs!

WHEN: 7.00pm, Friday 23 May 2008
WHERE: Der Keller at the Harmonie German Club
49 Jerrabomberra Ave, Narrabundah
COST: $18.00/person ($15.00 members/concessions) includes supper along with coffee and tea

RSVP by Thursday 22 May on tel: 6281-0486 or 6295-3565
or email: pgamp@orac.net.au

Please give your support to our generous sponsors:
Lindt Chocolates www.lindt.com.au;
Local Liquor Hughes (Wisdom Pl) www.localliquor.com.au; and Privileges Card www.thecard.com.au

Preview
Talk by Mr Max Hughes – The subject being “Australia, Germany, Austria – can we do better?” Mr Hughes is a former career diplomat and was Australian ambassador to Germany and Austria.
When: 7.30pm, Thursday 5 June 2008
Where: Das Zentrum, Griffin Centre Level 1, Genge St, Civic

Newest calendar of events

2008-04-07T14:02:00.000+10:00

Mondays 6-8pm
German language classes at intermediate level are on Monday evenings. Semester 1 intermediate class is full.

Tuesdays 6-8pm
German language classes for beginners. Spaces are still available in the beginners group – please contact Susanne for more information by email: susanne.gross@anu.edu.au or on 6262 8767.

Wednesdays 6-8pm
German language classes for beginners 2 (continuing) are on Wednesdays with limited spaces still available. For details please contact Susanne on 6262 8767.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late
German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months –contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

Sunday 11 May
6pm
Hildegard von Bingen by Candlelight at the Australian Centre for Christianity and Culture, Barton. For more information see article enclosed or visit www.cimf.org.au.

Friday 23 May
7.30pm
Trivia Night – test your knowledge at this bilingual event at the Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah – more details to come.

Thursday 5 June
7.30pm
Talk by Mr Max Hughes – “Australia, Germany, Austria – Can we do better?” Mr Hughes is a former career Diplomat and was Australian Ambassador to Germany and Austria. The talk will be at the Griffin Centre. Contact Paul for more information on 6281 0486.

COMING SOON
WINTER! – that means our Christmas in July function – cost and venue to be advised in our next edition.

Federweisser 2008

2008-03-07T09:08:00.001+11:00

‘Das Zentrum’ invites to the traditional German tasting of the new wine (Federweisser) with onion tart (Zwiebelkuchen). Join us for this most enjoyable event at Helms Winery. Bookings are essential.

When: Sunday 16 March 2008 at 2.00PM.
Where: Helms Winery, Butts Road, via Murrumbateman
Cost: $12.00 per person

For bookings and further information please call 62810486

Upcoming events in early 2008

2008-02-25T12:02:00.003+11:00

Federweisser will be held on Sunday 16 March or Sunday 30 March.

There will be a film screening on Thursday 27 March.

Das Zentrum will host a trivia night in May.

There will be a presentation by Max Hughes on Thursday 5 June.

German Language Courses for Semester 1, 2008

2008-01-21T15:34:00.000+11:00

Learn German with Das Zentrum in 2008

Beginners I
No prior knowledge of German needed to join this course
Cost: $200 for 14 two-hour sessions on Tuesdays, 6-8 pm
Start: 5 February 2008 (To be confirmed)
Book: Langenscheidt Optimal A1 Text- and workbook (available at or can be ordered through the ANU Co-op Bookshop)

You have to be a member of Das Zentrum to do the course – for more details regarding membership, course location, enrolment and fee payment please see below.

Continuing Beginners
Cost: $200 for 14 two-hour sessions on Wednesdays, 6-8 pm
Start: 6 February 2008 (To be confirmed)
Book: Langenscheidt Optimal A1 Text- and workbook (available at or can be ordered through the ANU Co-op Bookshop)

We will start with the second half of chapter 6. If you would like to join this course and have done a little bit of German before it should be quite easy to catch up. You can revise by going through the previous chapters and contact Susanne if you have any questions (her contact details are below). We will also do some revision in the first lesson.

You have to be a member of Das Zentrum to do the course – for more details regarding membership, course location, enrolment and fee payment please see below.

Intermediate
Cost: $200 for 14 two-hour sessions on Mondays, 6-8 pm
Start: 4 February 2008 (To be confirmed)
Book: EM neu Brückenkurs Text- and workbook (publisher: Hueber) (available at or can be ordered through the ANU Co-op Bookshop)

We will start with chapter 7. If you would like to join this course and have done some German before use the time before the course starts to do some revision by looking at the earlier chapters. Susanne can send you the contents page of the book electronically if youwant to see if this level suits you. Contact her if she can help you with anything (contact details below).

You have to be a member of Das Zentrum to do the course – for more details regarding membership, course location, enrolment and fee payment please see below.

Additional course information

Das Zentrum membership ($50 full/$30 concession per year) gives you free access to our library resources (books, magazines, videos, DVDs). We meet at Das Zentrum, which is on the first floor of the Griffin Centre on Genge Street in Civic. To sign up please ring Susanne on 6262 8767 or email (gross.susanne@gmail.com) and let us know your name and contact details (email and mobile phone numbe). Susanne will then confirm your enrolment.

Das Zentrum Celebrates!

2007-10-12T13:44:00.000+10:00

Geburtstagsfest – Birthday Party

You are invited to celebrate, reminisce, see old friends and enjoy entertainment, food and drinks at Das Zentrum’s Geburtstagsfest. Were you at the official launch 10 years ago? If so, it would be great to see you at this special event. The celebration starts from 1pm on Saturday 20 October. Don’t miss special guest speakers and our famous Kaffee und Kuchen. Following on from our celebrations is the final round of the Vorlesewettbewerb (Reading Competition) from 2.45pm – stay on to hear performances of texts and announcement of winners.

Calendar of Events, October-December 2007

2007-10-12T13:42:00.000+10:00

Mondays 6-8pm
German language classes at intermediate level – continuing on Monday evenings. For more information please contact Susanne on 6262 8767 or susanne.gross (at) anu.edu.au.

Tuesdays 6-8pm
German conversation classes at advanced level. For more details please contact Patricia on 6295 3565.

Wednesdays 6-8pm
German language classes for beginners 2 (continuing) are on Wednesdays. Please contact Susanne for details on 6262 8767.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late
German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months –contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

Fri 12 to Sun 14 October
Oktoberfest organised by the Harmonie German Club is on again at Thoroughbred Park in Lyneham.

Saturday 20 October
1 – 4pm
Geburtstagsfest – 10 year party
Join us at the Griffin Centre to celebrate 10 years. And don’t miss our Vorlesewettbewerb (Reading Competition) from 2.45pm.

Wed 31 October
8pm
Annual General Meeting at the Griffin Centre – it’s that time of year already. Send in your nominations or get nominated yourself! Contact Paul for more information on 6281 0486.

Wed 5 December
7pm
Join us for our Christmas dinner – cost and venue to be advised.

German Recipes

2007-10-12T13:41:00.001+10:00

Collection of traditional recipes from the German speaking regions of Europe –
Contributors wanted.

The Canberra German-speakers' Network (CGN), as a cooperative project, would like to start a collection of traditional recipes to showcase the culinary breadth and diversity of the German-speaking regions. The aim is to publish the recipes in a multimedia format non-commercially for distribution to the wider Australian community.

What we need are your favourite family recipes. What about your grandmother's Käsekuchen, your auntie's Sauerbraten, or your father's Glühwein recipe? We invite you to share your best cooking secrets with the rest of the community. We would very much appreciate your contribution to this exciting project.

To assist with your contribution we have prepared a template that sets out the headings and to make it easier for you to write up. The template is available at Das Zentrum or alternatively give us a call on 6230 0441 and we will post it to you.

Vorlesewettbewerb/Reading Competition 2007

2007-09-17T13:08:00.000+10:00

Das Zentrum was established in 1997 after the closure of the Goethe Institute in Canberra. It offers a broad range of print media, videos, DVDs as well as a representative selection of German literature and is supported by the Goethe Institut Sydney, the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany and the ACT Office of Multicultural Affairs. Das Zentrum is also a member of the Canberra German Speakers’ Network.

Theme: A German reading competition celebrating Das Zentrum’s 10th birthday.

Sections: There are three categories:
1. School students 15-18 years
2. Over 18 years
3. Native German speakers

Round 1: Read “Glückwünsche zum 10. Geburtstag” (see text over) and record it on audio tape or CD. The three best entries of each section will be invited to the second round.

Round 2: Read an unseen text to a panel of judges (with some preparation time). This will be at Das Zentrum’s 10th birthday celebration at our Griffin Centre premises on Saturday 20 October from 2.45pm. (Party celebrations starting at 1pm). Prize winners will be announced at the end of the readings. All are welcome to attend this public round.

Prizes: 1st prize $130 (each category), other prizes for 2nd and 3rd places.

Conditions of Entry
(please read carefully)

- Read “Glückwünsche zum 10. Geburtstag” on CD or audio tape in German.
- Post or deliver your recording and your entry form to:
Das Zentrum
Griffin Centre
Level 1, Room 1-03
Genge Street
Canberra ACT 2601
Additional forms are available from Das Zentrum or your German teacher.

Please contact Patrizia (bezi at bigpond.net.au) to receive an entry form by email.

- No native speaker is permitted to enter the non-native speakers’ categories (sections 1-2).
- Entries must be received by Tuesday 2 October 2007.
- There is no entry fee.
- There is a limit of one entry per person.
- Each entry must be accompanied by an official entry form.
- Das Zentrum will choose the best three entries of each category (the decision is final) and will notify the winners of the first round by Friday 12 October 2007.
- Entries will not be returned.

Glückwünsche zum 10. Geburtstag

Eins, zwei, drei, vier, fünf, sechs, sieben,
wo ist nur die Zeit geblieben?
Gestern ein Kind – heute schon zehn,
wer nicht Schritt hält, hat das Nachsehn.

Wir, die Älteren, stehn voll Staunen,
vielleicht hörst du unser Raunen:
zehn? Nein, das kann nicht sein!
Gestern war’s Zentrum noch so klein!

Dies Reden von vergangner Zeit
bringt dich in Verlegenheit?
Dann lass uns schnell das Thema wechseln
und nicht länger Worte drechseln

Denn gegen Altern oder Wachsen
helfen keine Prophylaxen.
Und das ist auch richtig so,
denn Stagnieren macht nicht froh.

Immersion Weekend 2007

2007-06-20T12:13:00.000+10:00

Do you have a basic knowledge of German (minimum 30 hours tuition)?
Would you like to “immerse yourself” in German language and culture without leaving Canberra?

If so, Das Zentrum’s famous immersion weekend is for you. It consists of language sessions and workshops for adult learners (year 11 & 12 college students welcome) at the levels of continuing beginners, intermediate and advanced (other levels may be available depending on demand). Previous participants are welcome – the successful format is unchanged, but the content will be all new.

The weekend starts on Friday evening with an introductory session, class placement and a film screening (in German with English subtitles), and continues on Saturday with language classes and special interest workshops. The language classes will focus on Deutsch im Alltag (German in everyday situations), as well as on Landeskunde (background studies). Speaking and listening skills will be specially trained. The workshops on Saturday afternoon will cover such diverse topics as creating a sketch and/or play, writing a quiz, singing and much more. The aim is to present the results of the workshops to the other participants on Saturday evening, which in previous years was a lot of fun!

And when you are not hard at work: The program includes a buffet dinner on Friday evening and a Kaffee und Kuchen buffet on Saturday afternoon after the workshops. As a conclusion and grand finale to a successful weekend – “the Show”: a dinner with live entertainment (your presentations!).

We are particularly pleased that this year our very hard-working teachers from Canberra are once again joined by language instructors from the Goethe Institut Sydney.

Friday August 3rd 6 pm – 10 pm
Saturday August 4th 9am – 10 pm

Cost: $140 standard, $120 for das Zentrum members
Concession: $90 for school students and full-time university students

Includes tuition, 2 dinners and coffee/cake buffet, drinks during the day. It does not include lunch on Saturday – please bring your own.

Venue: International Centre, Canberra (Boys) Grammar School
Car park off Alexander Street, Red Hill

For registration form, placement test or for more information please contact:
Patricia Schiessl on 6295 3565 (evenings) or
email: bezi@bigpond.net.au OR
Susanne Gross on 6262 8767 (evenings) oremail: susanne.gross@anu.edu.au

Semester 2, 2007 German language classes

2007-06-20T12:11:00.000+10:00

Mondays 6-8pm
Semester 2 from
Monday 9 July

German language classes at intermediate level –
Semester 2 starts on 9 July. For more information please contact Susanne on 6262 8767 or susanne.gross (at) anu.edu.au.

Tuesdays 6-8pm
Semester 2 from
Tuesday 31 July

German conversation classes at advanced level starts again on 31 July. If students are interested, this class may focus on the dramatisation of a text, with a possible stage production in 2008! For more details please contact Patricia on 6295 3565.

Wednesdays 6-8pm
Semester 2 from
Wednesday 11 July

German language classes for beginners 2 (continuing) – starts on 11 July. Please contact Susanne for details on 6262 8767.

Every Thursday
7.30pm until late

German conversation group continues weekly at Das Zentrum. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months –contact Paul for more details on 6281 0486.

2007-03-26T14:09:00.000+10:00

Thursday 29 March, 6.30pm

Das Zentrum will screen "Sophie Scholl – Die letzten Tage" (Sophie Scholl - The Final Days) at the Burton Theatre, Canberra Boys Grammar School, Narrabundah. The film is in German with English subtitles, and drinks and snacks will be served. Cost: $10 per person.

Sat 7 & Sun 8 April (Easter weekend)

17th German Folk Dance Festival includes traditional dances (including Schuhplattler, the famous Bavarian thigh clapping dance), Alphorn blowing and playing the chimes. Over 100 dancers from 11 folk dance groups are expected at the event this year at the Harmonie German Club, Narrabundah. Cost is $15 ($10 concession). Refreshments will be available. Everybody is welcome. For information contact the club on 6295 9853.

Sunday 15 April from 1pm

Wine tasting & picnic at Helm’s Winery, Butts Road, via Murrumbateman (25 minutes drive north on the Barton Highway from Canberra). $12 per person for wine and Zwiebelkuchen (onion tart). Car pooling can be arranged if required. RSVP to Paul on 6281 0486 by 13 April.

Language Courses Offered in Semester 1, 2007

2006-11-30T14:05:00.000+11:00

Learn German in 2007!

Das Zentrum will be offering German language classes in 2007 at beginners, intermediate and advanced levels. All classes are held at our premises at the Griffin Centre (Level 1) in Genge Street, Civic and teachers are qualified native-German speakers.

All semester one courses are fully booked. For more information about upcoming language classes, please visit Das Zentrum and leave your contact details.

Calendar of Events for December 2006-February 2007

2006-11-30T14:03:00.000+11:00

Wed 6 December
6.30pm for 7pm
Das Zentrum’s Christmas function 2006
Enjoy dinner at the Harmonie German Club, Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah. Cost of meal is $24. RSVP by 5 December to Paul on 6281 0486 or Das Zentrum during opening hours. The raffle will be drawn at the function.

Friday 8 December
7pm
Filmabend: ‘Wunder Frauenkirche’
At Das Zentrum, Level 1, Griffin Centre. Der Film behandelt den Bau und besonders den Wiederaufbau der Frauenkirche in Dresden. Der Film ist in deutscher Sprache (film is in German).

From February 2007
German language courses at various levels will be offered in 2007 – more information enclosed. To express interest please leave your details at Das Zentrum.

Resuming in 2007 Thursdays
7.30pm until late
German conversation group will continue in 2007. Cost for this popular group is $30 per six months – for information contact Paul on 6281 0486.

Sat 24 February 2007
10.30am to 3.30pm
Open Day – everyone welcome to explore our centre, information, orientation, quiz, film screening, entertainment AND coffee and cake! We hope to see you there.

Announcement: German playschool

2006-08-22T10:04:00.000+10:00

Register now for a new German Australian playschool

Open for children from all language backgrounds
No previous knowledge of German necessary
Commencing one day a week (Wednesdays) in 2007
Part day, full day and possible after school care options

A local community group is organising a German language playschool to operate once a week starting in 2007. We will provide a fun, caring and supportive environment for children who already have some German language as well as for those who do not.

Playschool is for 3 and 4 year olds and is a middle ground between playgroup (where parents attend) and preschool (where a paid teacher runs a structured program). A fully qualified teacher who is a native German speaker will run the playschool program. Interested parents can be rostered on to assist.

We are now calling for expressions from parents. We intend to hold the playschool on Wednesdays at Cook Preschool and offer half days (three hours) and full days (six hours). If there is enough interest, we may also be able to offer an after school program in German as well.

Please let me know if you might be interested (even if you aren't sure), or if you want to know more. Contact Maria Fleming on mariafleming (at) dodo.com.au

Kaenguruh Laenzelot und anderes: SBS Deutsches Programm

2005-10-02T18:06:00.000+10:00

Wenn es Ihnen noch nicht bekannt sein sollte, schauen sie mal auf SBS Deutsch dem Deutschen Programm von SBS, das per Ultrakurzwellen (FM) Radio in Canberra auf 105.5 MHz an den folgenden Tagen und Uhrzeiten zu empfangen ist:

Monday 9:00
Wednesday 8:00
Thursday 20:00
Friday 9:00

Auf der zitierten Webseite findet sich auch ein Abriss der Geschichte der deutsch-sprachigen Einwanderung nach Australien, die hier in Auszuegen wiedergegeben ist:

The German-Speaking Community in Australia

The Australian population of German-speaking background, German, Austrian and Swiss-German, experienced a dramatic growth in the decades after the Second World War. But there were earlier waves of immigration which made German speaking immigrants one of the largest groups of non-English speaking background in Australia.

Their presence stretches back to the earliest days of European colonisation. Commander of the First Fleet, Captain Arthur Phillip, was the son of the language teacher, Jakob Phillip, from Frankfurt.

The flow of Germans to Australia is detailed in The Australian People, edited by James Jupp. One of the most influential Germans to set foot on Australian soil was Ludwig Leichhardt, who later engaged in the epic exploration from North Queensland to the Northern Territory near Darwin in 1844. One of the first Swiss-Germans to arrive on these shores was Johann Weber, later anglicised to John Webber, a member of Captain James Cook's expedition of 1770.

The first prominent Austrian in Australia was Ferdinand Bauer, a botanical artist, who on the invitation of Sir Joseph Banks was the only non-British member to take part in the first circumnavigation of Australia under the command of Matthew Flinders in 1801.

Swiss settlers finally arrived in greater numbers in the first half of the 19th century. Having played a major role in the formation of significant sectors of Australian primary and secondary industry, German-speaking immigrants are nowadays more integrated into Australia's mainstream society than most other new settlers.

Today, the majority of German-speaking skilled and semi-skilled tradespeople who came to Australia during the last immigration waves of the 1960s and 1970s are hardly distinguishable from the rest of society.

Over the years the preservation of their culture has become more difficult given the near total integration of their second and third generation descendants into the mainstream. The inclusion of magazine-style programs in German and English in the Program is an acknowledgement of this trend.... (SBS German Program) HT

im neuen Gewand

2005-09-12T10:36:00.000+10:00

Das Zentrum, being the first organisation, has opened its doors for business on the first floor of the brandnew Griffin centre, which is located opposite the old Griffin building in Genge Street, Civic. The quick move has been made possible through the tireless efforts of volunteers around President Paul Gamp.

Next time you are in Civic pop in for a coffee or a chat and admire the new professional outfit of the Institute.

Unfortunately, the generous opening times are currently in jeopardy, since not sufficient numbers of volunteers are available to man the front desk for the next half year or so. If you can help, please contact urgently Paul Gamp (pgamp@orac.net.au). We are looking for volunteers who would be in a position to spend about 2-3 hours each week in the Institute on a regular basis over the next 6-9 month. Ideally a pair of volunteers may be found, who could take on a particular opening time. This would allow for more flexibility, in case one of them is not available. HT

Spiele und Lerne

2005-05-25T10:55:00.000+10:00

Spielend Deutsch Lernen ist jetzt so einfach wie ein Mausklick. Auf dieser Webseite des 20 Fragen Spiels kann man nicht nur seine Zeit vertreiben, sondern auch die eine oder andere Vokabel aufschnappen. HT

Federweisserausschank und Weinprobe

2005-03-20T18:50:00.000+11:00

A large number of Zentrum members enjoyed a splendid afternoon at Helm's Winery in Murrumbateman. Federweisser and award-wining wines were at hand to wet the palate for traditional German Zwiebelkuchen. Ken Helm himself took pleasure in serving his wines for tasting and in demonstrating fermentation techniques.

The afternoon went quickly, with German-English conversations only sidelined occasionally by the distant call of the magpie. HT

Einsteins Raum

2005-03-05T22:57:00.000+11:00

Nicht weit vom Hauptbahnhof in Ulm, am Beginn der Einkaufsstrasse, steht die abgebildete Skulptur. Sie ist ein abstrakter Versuch den Begriff 'Raum' zu erfassen und gleichzeitig die 'Ra"umlichkeiten' zu symbolisieren in denen der Begru"nder unseres modernen Versta"ndnisses von 'Raum und Zeit' 1879 sein erstes Lebensjahr verbracht hat. Der Weltenbu"rger Albert Einstein ist gebu"rtiger Ulmer. Im Jahre 1880 zieht die Familie jedoch nach Mu"nchen, wo sich fu"r Vater Hermann und Onkel Jakob gescha"ftliche Mo"glichkeiten ergeben.

Mu"nchen war nicht die letzte Station im ereignisreichen Leben des jungen Albert, das ihn u"ber viele Komplikationen in das sogenannte Annus Mirabilis (das bewundernswerte Jahr) fu"hrte, in dem er gerade einmal 26 Jahre alt war. Das Jahr 1905 steht am Anfang der modernen Physik und mit Recht, so wie Newton fu"r die klassische Physik, gilt Einstein als deren Vater. Allein vier herausragende Arbeiten kennzeichnen Einsteins Schaffen in diesem Jahr, von denen jede einzelne einen Wissenschaftler zu Weltruhm gefu"hrt ha"tte.

Wenn wir immer mehr photovoltaische Zellen nutzten, nicht zuletzt um einer mo"glichen Klimakatastrophe zu entgehen, so verdanken wir Einsteins Werk 1905 die fundamentale Erkla"rung dieser Technologie. Das moderne Versta"ndnis von Atomen und Moleku"len, letztendlich die Grundlage von Chemie, Physiologie und Pharmazie, wurde, ebenfalls 1905, durch seine Interpretation der sogenannten 'Brownschen Atombewegung' gepra"gt.

Die weltweite Faszination mit der Person des Genies geht allerdings auf die beiden weiteren Arbeiten von 1905 zuru"ck, die sich mit 'Raum und Zeit' bescha"ftigen und zur Relativita"tstheorie gefu"hrt haben. Nun ist E = mc2 ein wichtiger Teil derselben, und tangiert uns immens dadurch, dass die damit zum Ausdruck gebracht Umwandlung von Materie in Energie in der Sonne, in Spaltungs- und Fusionreaktoren, wie auch in Atomwaffen stattfindet, doch erscheint die korrekte Neudefinition von 'Raum und Zeit' von gro"sserer Bedeutung. So hat sie doch uns Menschen noch weiter weggetrieben von der irrigen Vorstellung, dass wir und unsere geradlinige, dreidimensionale Welterfahrung der Mittelpunkt des kosmischen Geschehens sind. Einstein hat erkla"rt, und mit modernen Instrumenten ko"nnen wir es sehen, dass Raum und Zeit zusammengeho"ren. Er hat richtig vorausgesagt, dass diese, unsere vierdimensionale Welt, von grossen, massiven Objekten, wie den Sternen, gekru"mmt werden kann. Dass all dies weit entfernt ist von unserer Alltagserfahrung wird nicht zuletzt dadurch deutlich, dass auf vielen wissenschaftlichen Kongressen immer noch gutorganisierte Laiengruppen mit Flugbla"ttern und Plakaten gegen Einsteins Schlussfolgerungen anprangern und sie als falsch deklarieren. Solch eine Verbissenheit la"sst sich nur damit erkla"ren, dass das Werk Albert Einsteins vehement an unserem menschlichen Selbstversta"ndnis ru"ttelt.

Die herausragenden Leistungen Einsteins aus dem Jahre 1905, die in der Menschheitsgeschichte Vergleiche suchen, ja"hren sich nun zum einhundertsten Mal. Dies wird mit der Ernennung des Jahres 2005 zum 'Internationalen Jahr der Physik' gefeiert und mit einer Vielzahl von Veranstaltungen gewu"rdigt, die auf den folgenden Internetseiten dokumentiert sind.

Einstein International Year of Physics (Australia)
Einsteinjahr (Deutschland)
International Year of Physics

Die wissenschaftlichen, perso"nlichen und politischen Aspekte des Lebens des grossen Physikers sind weit publiziert und in vielen Aspekten Anregung und Mahnung an uns moderne Erdenbu"rger. Man mag sich vielleicht fragen, womit wir heute den Namen 'Einstein' verbinden wu"rden, wa"ren dem jungen Albert nicht diese einzigartigen Geniezu"ge eingehaucht worden ? - Vielleicht mit der Tatsache, dass Vater und Onkel fu"r die erste elektrische Beleuchtung des Mu"nchener Oktoberfestes verantwortlich zeichneten.

(Eine ausgezeichnete, englischsprachige Biographie Albert Einsteins findet man in dem Buch von Albrecht Fo"lsing 'Albert Einstein', Penguin Books, ISBN 0 14 02.3719 4)

Schillerjahr 2005

2005-03-05T22:02:00.000+11:00

Vor 200 Jahren, am 9. Mai 1805, starb in Weimar der am 10. November 1759 in Marbach am Neckar geborene Dichter Friedrich von Schiller. Aus diesem Anlass ist 2005 zum Schillerjahr ernannt worden. Aus dem reichhaltigen Werk besticht dieses Gedicht, das sich mit vergangener Liebe beschaeftigt.

Mehr Informationen ueber den grossen deutschen Dichter finden sich auf der offiziellen Internetseite Schillerjahr 2005

An Emma.

Weit in nebelgrauer Ferne
Liegt mir das vergangne Glück,
Nur an einem schönen Sterne
Weilt mit Liebe noch der Blick;
Aber, wie des Sternes Pracht,
Ist es nur ein Schein der Nacht.

Deckte dir der lange Schlummer,
Dir der Tod die Augen zu,
Dich besäße doch mein Kummer,
Meinem Herzen lebtest du.
Aber, ach! du lebst im Licht,
Meiner Liebe lebst du nicht.

Kann der Liebe süß Verlangen,
Emma, kann's vergänglich sein?
Was dahin ist und vergangen,
Emma, kann's die Liebe sein?
Ihrer Flamme Himmelsgluth -
Stirbt sie wie ein irdisch Gut?

Introducing the Australian-German Institute Das Zentrum

2005-03-04T09:41:00.000+11:00

Willkommen!

Das Zentrum in Canberra freut sich, den Deutschinteressierten in Canberra und der Welt diesen neuen Treffpunkt anzubieten. Hier werden Informationen zu Aktivitaeten des Instituts im ACT zu finden sein. Desweiteren ermoeglicht er den Erfahrungs- und Meinungsaustausch.

Welcome!

Das Zentrum, the Australian-German Institute in Canberra, presents this new site to offer people in Canberra and the world, who are interested in German, a new meeting place. They will find here information on current activities of Das Zentrum in the ACT. Furthermore, the site allows for the exchange of ideas and opinions.

Australian-German Institute Inc.

Das Zentrum is the Canberra meeting place for those interested in the culture and language of the German-speaking regions of Europe. Our members enjoy:

Free library access
Contact with like-minded people;
Regular bilingual newsletters;
Invitations to special events such as excursions, lectures, informal get-togethers, immersion weekends; and
Information on the German-speaking community in Canberra.

Sprechen Sie Deutsch?

Kommen Sie mit anderen Deutschsprachigen und Sprachstudenten zusammen. Tauschen Sie sich ueber Ihre Erfahrungen aus. Holen Sie sich Tipps fuer Ihre Reisen nach Europa, und stoebern Sie in unseren Zeitschriften. Lesen Sie die aktuellen Deutschsprachigen Zeitungen und Zeitschriften wie Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Stern und Spiegel.

Do you speak German?

Get in touch with other German speakers and language students, share experiences, plan your trip with expert advice, read current newspapers and magazines including Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Stern and Spiegel.

Wollen Sie Deutsch lernen?

Das Zentrum bietet Sprachklassen auf verschiedenen Niveaus und woechentliche Konversationsklassen an. Auch Veranstaltungen wie under Immersion Weekend helfen dabei, die deutsche Sprache zu entdecken und zu pflegen. Wir beraten Sie, damit Sie den richtigen Kursus fuer Ihr Sprachniveau finden. Erleben Sie, wie viel Spass es macht, in einer Gruppe zu lernen.

Would you like to learn German?

Das Zentrum offers language classes at different levels, a weekly conversation group, and such events as our immersion weekend. We can help you find the right course for your level. Have fun learning in a group.

Lesehungrig?

Suchen Sie nach deutschen Buechern, Romanen (viele auch in englischer Uebersetzung), Sekundaerliteratur, Kinderbuechern oder Lehrmaterialien? Waehlen Sie aus unserem breiten Angebot an Zeitungen, Musik und Studienmaterialien das richtige fuer sich aus. Unser Video- und DVD-Angebot wird immer wieder durch Neuerscheinungen ergaenzt und lockt mit Kassenschlagern wie Goodbye Lenin! und Das Wunder von Bern.

Looking for reading material?

Are you looking for German books including reference books, literary texts (in both German and English), children's books and teaching materials? Choose from our large range of resources such as newspapers, music, study materials, videos and DVDs including new releases and German blockbusters such as Goodbye Lenin! and Das Wunder von Bern. About 40% of our material is in English.

Machen Sie mit!

Wo sonst koennen Sie Federweisser, Zwiebelkuchen, Gratis-Lesungen und Konzerte, Filmvorfuehrungen, Baella, festliche Abendessen und vieles mehr geniessen?

Would you like to join in?

Where else can you sample Federweisser and Zwiebelkuchen, free lectures, film screenings, balls, dinners and much more?