SAGSE 50th Anniversary 1967-2017

Dr Martin Schlegel VIC & acting Federal President T (03) 9939-4495 martin.schlegel@sagse.org.au

GPO Box 2539 Melbourne VIC 3001 www.sagse.org.au info@sagse.org.au

13 September 2017 50 year Anniversary of ‘Goodwill in Action’

50 years ago, in 1967 in Melbourne, Fritz von Einem-Joosten founded the Society for Australian-German Student Exchange based on his belief that personal connections between young people could foster mutual understanding and respect in order to avoid conflicts. As globalization emerged as a theme, the exchange extended beyond the bilateral connections between the two countries and built a bridge between Australia and Europe. Today, in a highly digitally connected world, this vision and the exchange are still relevant and as important as 50 years ago: We all aware and use the ways of digitally engaging with our environment: People connect with friends on social media, we obtain insights into peoples views through video platforms and research facts online. However, nothing is more enriching than the personal engagement and direct conversation amongst people. That is why business people fly around the world to shake hands on a business deal, scientists gather at conferences to exchange ideas and SAGSE each year sends young students to experience everyday life as part of their families. As German Chancellor, Angela Merkel recently pointed out, ‘it is better to talk with each other than about each other’. As an organisation, SAGSE now operates in a number of States and Territories across Australia. Although slight nuances amongst the different chapters exist, the continued support of sponsors, corporate and family members, schools, host families and alumni – all operating on a voluntary basis - will ensure that many more young students can hopefully continue to enjoy the truly life-changing opportunity in the years to come.

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Dr Martin Schlegel

Sponsors

Corporate Members Machinery Forum, Porsche Cars Australia, Sick Pty Ltd, RSM Australia, Run Creative, iTalk Travel School Members Billanook College, Catholic Ladies’ College, Caulfield Grammar School, Deutsche Schule Melbourne, Dimboola Memorial Secondary College, GECKOS Inc. German Community Language School , German Saturday School, Korowa Anglican Girls’ School, MacRobertson Girls' High School, Mentone Girls' Grammar School, Oberon High School, Presbyterian Ladies' College, Scotch College, Trinity Grammar School, Vermont Secondary College, Viewbank College, Westbourne Grammar School